MIAMI — NCL’s Chief Sales Officer, John Chernesky, is leaving the company effective Dec. 31.

John Chernesky

The cruise industry veteran has been at NCL for four years, joining in 2022 as VP, North America Sales, after more than two decades with Princess Cruises and a stint at Holland America Line.

“John Chernesky will be departing the company effective Dec. 31, 2026. We thank John for his leadership and contributions over the past three and a half years as Norwegian Cruise Line’s Chief Sales Officer and wish him all the best,” said NCL.

It’s been a year of turnover at NCL and its parent company, NCLH. John Chidsey took over at NCLH as President and CEO in February 2026. Chidsey’s appointment came with an eye to leading the parent company “through meaningful transformation with a focus on operational rigour and accountability.” NCL’s President, Marc Kazlauskas, took top job at the cruise line in January 2026.

Chernesky is a long-time retail travel advisor supporter. “We’re incredibly proud of our ongoing work with each of you. Our goal is to be the best brand you ever worked with, to be the easiest and the most open for collaboration,” he told agents during the April 2025 christening sailing for NCL’s 20th vessel, Norwegian Aqua.

Brennan Quesnele, SVP of Strategic Accounts and Trade Marketing, will assume interim responsibility for North America Sales as the company begins the search for Chernesky’s successor. 

“We remain fully committed to our travel partners and to providing the support, resources and partnership they need to succeed,” said NCL.