Orlando Ashford Announces Departure from Holland America Line

Holland America Line President Orlando Ashford will leave the cruise line at the end of May after five-and-a-half years at the helm.

Holland America made the announcement on Tuesday afternoon, writing that Ashford will be leaving Carnival Corp., where he has been since November 2014, after leading “a rejuvenation of the brand through an emphasis on enhanced onboard entertainment, live music, and culinary experiences.”

“It has been an honor and a privilege to lead the evolution of the Holland America Line brand for more than five years,” said Ashford. “I can’t say enough about the talent and teamwork both shoreside and on board the ships that has driven our many successes over the years.”

Ashford leaves as Holland America and the rest of the cruise industry continues to deal with the fallout from the spread and impact of COVID-19.

In his goodbye statement, Ashford said that the pandemic has impacted “our industry in ways that are completely unprecedented,” but that “I believe it is human nature to travel and explore new places and cultures and meet new people. I have no doubt that Holland America Line will thrive again soon, and its guests will be ready when cruise operations resume. I look forward to being one of the first to sail.”