Cruise Saudi has appointed Sture Myrmell as President of AROYA Cruises, the first Arab cruise line launched in June 2023 by Cruise Saudi.
Myrmell brings over three decades of leadership experience in the global cruise and tourism industry. His expertise spans commercial strategy, operations, destination development, and guest experience. Throughout his career, he has played a central role in expanding cruise operations and developing new markets worldwide. He has held executive positions at some of the most prestigious cruise brands in the world, including Cunard, Seabourn, Princess Cruises, and P&O Cruises Australia, and later served as President of Carnival Australia and Carnival UK. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Journey Beyond, one of Australia’s leading experiential tourism companies.
As President of AROYA Cruises, Myrmell will lead the company’s strategy and ongoing development, solidifying its position as the first cruise line inspired by Arab culture and hospitality. Based in Jeddah, he will oversee commercial operations and guest experience, while driving the evolution of AROYA’s cruise offerings, all characterized by the brand’s distinctive and unique identity, Remarkably Arabian.
Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, emphasized that Sture Myrmell brings exceptional global experience in the cruise industry and a strong leadership track record with some of the most internationally recognized brands. His expertise in operations, strategy, and market development will be instrumental in expanding AROYA Cruises’ offerings and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position in the global cruise market. Clasen added that he is excited to work with Myrmell on the company’s growth journey, further establishing AROYA as the first Arab cruise line.
Sture Myrmell stated that joining AROYA Cruises represents an exciting opportunity to help make AROYA a world-class cruise experience, shaped by the region’s culture and hospitality. He also highlighted his commitment to supporting the development of the cruise sector in Saudi Arabia and the wider region, working with the team to further enhance the guest experience and support the brand’s continued growth.
The announcement comes as AROYA Cruises, developed in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s ambition to become a leading global tourism destination, continues to strengthen its presence in the region. Following the success of its inaugural seasons, the cruise line has welcomed guests from Saudi Arabia, the GCC, and international markets, while developing new itineraries and immersive year-round cruises designed to offer a unique Remarkably Arabian experience at sea.
The flagship ship, AROYA, features 1,678 cabins, 12 restaurants, 17 lounges and cafés, and 20 entertainment venues, along with Blossom by AROYA wellness and sports facilities and one of the largest children’s areas in the cruise industry. The ship also offers Khuzama, AROYA’s VIP experience designed for guests seeking the highest levels of exclusivity and personalized service, and sails seasonally across the Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, and Mediterranean.
Giorgia Lombardo
