Cruise industry veteran Bruce Nierenberg has been appointed executive vice president of Orient Lines. He will be responsible for product development and worldwide marketing and sales.
Wayne Heller, founder of the Cruises Only travel agency, purchased the Orient Lines brand from Star Cruises in June. He said he plans to acquire 600- to 800-passenger ships and develop a product similar to what Orient Lines once offered. Orient Lines, known for exotic cruises, ceased operations in March when its lone ship, the Marco Polo, was transferred to a new owner.
Over the past few years, Nierenberg has been a consultant on a number of projects. He was president of Delta Queen Steamboat Co. from 2003 to 2006, executive vice president of Norwegian Cruise Line from 1996 to 1997, president and CEO of Costa and American Family cruise lines from 1992 to 1994 and founder and partner of Premier Cruise Lines from 1983 to 1991.