Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys, resigns citing ‘personal reasons’, marking a shift for the luxury cruise line.
- Ungerer has played a pivotal role in establishing Explora Journeys, part of the MSC Group, over nearly five years.
- Explora Voyages’ first luxury ship, Explora I, was successfully launched under Ungerer’s leadership.
- Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC’s executive chair, will temporarily assume Ungerer’s CEO duties.
- Ungerer will continue to advise Explora Journeys until August 2024.
Michael Ungerer, who has served as Chief Executive Officer of Explora Journeys, is stepping down due to ‘personal reasons’. This change comes after nearly five years of his leadership, during which he was instrumental in establishing Explora Journeys as a new luxury lifestyle brand under the MSC Group.
Throughout his tenure, Ungerer successfully launched the brand’s first vessel, Explora I, marking a significant milestone for the company. The launch of Explora I under his guidance represents the brand’s commitment to luxury and innovation in the cruise industry.
During this transition period, Pierfrancesco Vago, the executive chair of the MSC Group’s Cruise Division, will take over Ungerer’s responsibilities as CEO. Vago expressed his gratitude for Ungerer’s contributions, highlighting the collaborative effort in building an ambitious new brand from the ground up.
Ungerer stated, ‘Creating a new luxury hospitality brand from scratch in today’s world has been a true, once in a lifetime opportunity, and an incredible journey.’ He praised the visionary leadership of Pierfrancesco Vago and the Aponte family, underlining their long-term generational vision that has been pivotal to the company’s success.
Despite his resignation, Ungerer will continue to support Explora Journeys until August 2024 as an advisor, ensuring a smooth transition and continued growth for the brand.
Michael Ungerer’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Explora Journeys, as the brand prepares for its future under new leadership.
