Cruise & Cruise Line

Ex-Royal CEO Joins Elliott to Help NCL, Says People Keep Asking Him "What Is Going on at Norwegian?"

Image: Norwegian Aqua hits the water for the first time at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy. (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Image: Norwegian Aqua hits the water for the first time at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy. (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Sarah Kuta
by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 5:55 PM ET, Thu February 19, 2026

What is going on at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings?

It’s a question Adam Goldstein, a former Royal Caribbean executive and chair of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), has been fielding a lot lately in the wake of the company’s recent leadership change and public criticism from activist investor Elliott Investment Management.

In a February 19 commentary for Fortune, Goldstein revealed that he’s working with Elliott Investment Management on its campaign to change the cruise company’s board of directors. 

Elliott Investment Management has suggested Goldstein as a potential director and, he writes, he “would be excited to be part of its next chapter.”

“Norwegian has significant strengths: innovative ships, respected brands, talented employees and a large base of loyal cruisers,” he writes. “The opportunity now is to bring additional operational experience and sharper focus to the board, helping translate those strengths into higher guest satisfaction and stronger results. I believe I can contribute meaningfully to that effort, and I am grateful for the opportunity to do so.”

Goldstein notes that he believes change is possible without reinventing the company, since Norwegian already has “the fleet, the people and the assets to fully seize the opportunity during this remarkable era of industry growth.”

He concludes: “When people ask me what is going on at Norwegian, I want to give them an even better answer: I want to tell them that Norwegian’s best days are still ahead.”


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