Transcend Cruises Appoints Cruise Industry Veteran Edie Rodriguez as CEO

River cruise charter specialist Transcend Cruises has appointed cruise industry veteran Edie Rodriguez as CEO. She has also been named to the Board of Directors. She will lead the company in its next phase of growth, overseeing Transcend’s strategic direction, brand development, and continued growth.

Her appointment underscores the company’s ambition to redefine experiential river cruising for corporations, associations, and affinity groups through innovative programming, exceptional service, and thoughtfully curated experiences both onboard and ashore.

Rodriguez has extensive experience leading some of the cruise industry’s most iconic brands: Crystal Cruises, including Crystal River Cruises and Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, Azamara Cruises, Cunard, Seabourn, and Ponant Cruises.  Her broader tourism industry background also includes positions as a Special Advisor to the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, a Member of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority including Chair of their Nominating and Remuneration Committee, and as an Advisor to Blackstone, the mega cap Private Equity Firm. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Edie Rodriguez to Transcend Cruises as our new CEO and a Member of the Board of Directors,” said Shawn Horowitz, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “Edie is a proven leader with a remarkable understanding of the luxury travel landscape, especially in cruising, with a strong track record of driving growth, and a passion for creating extraordinary guest experiences. Her strategic vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to build strong teams make her the ideal person to lead Transcend into its next chapter. We are confident that, under her leadership, the company will continue to challenge convention and elevate Transcend’s offering in Europe.”

“I’m delighted to be joining the Transcend team. The company is a true innovator and positive disruptor in the charter and MICE space for the European river cruise experiential market and perfectly positioned to attract global clients, with an exciting opportunity to further distinguish the brand,” said Rodriguez.  

Transcend Cruises also expressed its appreciation to Gregg Marston for his leadership and contributions during his tenure as CEO. Marston will transition from the CEO role to continue serving the company as a Member of the Board of Directors, providing continuity and strategic perspective as Transcend advances its next phase of development. The remainder of the Transcend Executive Leadership Team will remain in place working with Rodriguez.