by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 8:25 PM ET, Tue January 20, 2026
John Chernesky (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Norwegian Cruise Line is promoting John Chernesky to senior vice president and chief sales officer.
In his newly expanded leadership role, Chernesky will unite the brand’s worldwide sales organizations, streamline strategy, drive greater efficiency and maximize future potential.
Chernesky first joined the company in 2023 as senior vice president of North America sales, bringing with him more than 30 years of experience in the cruise industry.
“John has been instrumental in positioning NCL as the partner of choice,” says Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Bringing our sales organizations even closer together—while delivering meaningful wins for advisors—sets us up for strong, sustainable growth as we enter our next era.”
Chernesky recently hosted a digital town hall with the American Society of Travel Advisors to discuss the cruise line’s decision to eliminate all non-commissionable fares (NCFs). He also supports the travel advisor community in other ways, with resources, marketing tools and initiatives that help fuel their success.
“Our global sales teams and travel partners are the backbone of our success, and I’m excited to bring our efforts even closer together to fuel our growth,” says Chernesky. “The elimination of NCFs and the return of the commissionable Free at Sea Plus package are just a few ways we’re demonstrating the value we see in our partners. As our capacity increases, we have an enormous opportunity to further align our sales efforts across the globe. We want to continue being the easiest cruise line to do business with—and I am energized for what’s ahead.”
Supporting Chernesky’s sales organization is Jason Krimmel, vice president and chief international sales and marketing officer; and Michael Tomoleoni, vice president and chief consumer sales officer.
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