Swan Hellenic formally appointed ultra-luxury cruise expert Thomas Harrison as their new sales director for Europe.

Harrison’s new position was specifically created in response to the surging demand for Swan Hellenic’s signature cultural expedition cruise experience.

This increased demand resulted from a rapid growth in consumer awareness and bookings.

Harrison’s role also covers the whole of Europe where first quarter cruise bookings surged by 900 percent this year.

Known as a people person fluent in numerous languages, Harrison worked as sales director and vice-president of sales at Silversea Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises.

Joining a dynamic team 

In response to his appointment, Harrison said: “I’m excited to join Swan Hellenic. It’s a remarkable brand and I look forward to spearheading its accelerating sales across Europe in partnership with existing and new travel trade partners.”

Swan Hellenic chief commercial officer Patrizia Iantorno, to whom Harrison reports, expressed her delight as she welcomed him to the firm.

Iantorno said: “He’s a great results-focused leader. But what above all makes him a perfect fit for Swan Hellenic is his genuine passion for promoting the best guest experiences while forming enduring, mutually profitable relations with partners across countries and cultures.”