SEATTLE, WA, February 12, 2007 – Cruise West, the largest American-owned cruise line and leader in small-ship cruising, has announced Al Petrone as its Chief Marketing Officer. Petrone has been a consultant for Cruise West since September 2006 as the line’s interim vice president of marketing and will now assume this permanent position.
As chief marketing officer, Petrone will oversee Cruise West’s sales, marketing, public relations, reservations and product development teams.
Petrone has garnered extensive experience in the travel and hospitality industries. Prior to joining Cruise West, Petrone was the chief marketing officer for Noble House Hotels and Resorts. He had previously held senior marketing and operating positions with W Hotels, Sheraton and Ian Schrager Hotels, as well as General Electric and Pepsi Cola.
“Al brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm and novel initiatives to Cruise West,” said President & CEO Jeffrey Krida. “He has already proven to be an asset as we continue to grow our small-ship cruising brand.”
~ Up-Close, Casual and Personal Cruising ~
Cruise West offers the opportunity to explore remote, worldwide locales by providing distinctive, one-of-a-kind, personalized itineraries not offered by the traditional larger cruise lines. Cruise West’s smaller ships – nine in all – hold between 70-138 guests each, and the casual style onboard encourages relaxation and congenial interaction between guests and crew alike. The experience is personally enriching through onboard narrative and lectures, special local guests from a wide variety of backgrounds, and the library provided on each vessel. All have forward lounges and ample outdoor deck space for viewing and photographing wildlife and scenery. All vessels are also equipped with inflatable landing boats for up-close exploration of remote areas and shore landings.
To make reservations or request a brochure, visit www.cruisewest.com or call (800) 888-9378. Media can also visit www.louhammond.com for additional information and images.
Harriet Zois/Terence Gallagher
Lou Hammond & Associates
Tel: (212) 308-8880; Fax: (212) 891-0200
E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected]
Gail Manahan
Cruise West
Tel: (206) 892-2445
E-mail: [email protected]