Cruise Saudi names new President of Aroya Cruises

Cruise Saudi has appointed Sture Myrmell as President of Aroya Cruises, the Kingdom’s first domestic cruise line and the first Arabian brand at sea. He succeeds Dr Jörg Rudolph, who stepped down in November 2025, and will assume his new role on 1 April 2026, reporting directly to Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi.

 

Myrmell brings more than 30 years of leadership across the global cruise and tourism sectors, having held senior positions with leading international brands including Cunard, Seabourn, Princess Cruises and P&O Cruises Australia. His previous roles include President of both Carnival Australia and Carnival UK, and most recently, Chief Operating Officer at Australian experiential tourism company Journey Beyond.

 

Throughout his career, Myrmell has led strategy, operations, destination development and guest experience initiatives across multiple markets. He has played a pivotal role in expanding cruise operations and opening new source markets worldwide.

 

Based in Jeddah, Myrmell will oversee Aroya Cruises’ commercial strategy, operations and guest experience, guiding the brand’s next phase of growth. He will also focus on enriching offerings inspired by the region’s culture and hospitality.

 

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Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, said: “Sture brings exceptional global cruise experience and a strong track record of leadership across some of the industry’s most recognised brands. His expertise in operations, commercial strategy and market development will play an important role as we continue expanding Aroya Cruises’ offering and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position within the global cruise sector."

 

Myrmell added that he was excited to contribute to establishing Aroya Cruises as a "world-class cruise experience shaped by the culture and hospitality of the region, while supporting the continued development of the cruise sector in Saudi Arabia and the wider region".

 

Launched in December 2024 with Red Sea sailings, Aroya Cruises caters to regional and Muslim guests through premium, Arabian-inspired experiences. Its first vessel, Aroya, accommodates up to 3,400 guests and features spas, a kids’ zone and 12 dining venues, including IRTH, the first Saudi restaurant at sea.

 

In its debut year, the line welcomed more than 140,000 passengers from Saudi Arabia, the GCC, Europe and Central Asia. Operating year-round, Aroya sails the Red Sea in winter and the Mediterranean in summer, visiting destinations including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey and Greece. The line began expanding its 2026 programme with themed voyages and launched an inaugural Arabian Gulf season in February; however, the season was later cancelled due to the Iran conflict.

 

For more information, visit aroya.com and for all the latest cruise news, bookmark www.connectingtravel.com/cruise