Crystal announced in a press release the appointment of Mario Parodi as vice president of itinerary planning and port and fuel operations, effective Sept. 1.

“We are so pleased to welcome Mario to the Crystal family,” said Roberto Fazi, SVP of Marine Operations at Crystal.  “His impressive track record and deep understanding of traditional and expedition cruising will be pivotal as we continue to innovate and expand our offerings.”

Originally from Genoa, Italy, Parodi has a rich maritime background, having graduated from the Nautical Institute in Genoa in 1985.

He began his career in the Italian Navy before serving as a Deck Officer on cargo and cruise ships.

After his time at sea, Parodi managed Port Operations for Evergreen at the Port of Genoa Voltri before relocating to the United States. He spent eight years as a Port Agent before joining Prestige Cruise Holdings in 2008. In March 2015, he was appointed Vice President of Port Operations & Itinerary Planning for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, where he was responsible for port operations and the development of global itineraries for all three brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Most recently, Parodi served at Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Parodi said: “I am honored to join Crystal and look forward to collaborating with such a talented team. Together, we will create unforgettable experiences for our guests and chart new courses in the cruising industry.”