Victory Cruise Lines has appointed Cris De Souza as Vice President of Sales.

De Souza will work alongside current Vice President Bob Salmon through the remainder of 2026 before he retires in 2027.

In her new role, De Souza will oversee Victory Cruise Lines’ sales strategy, with responsibility for driving revenue across travel advisor partnerships, national accounts, host agencies, consortia, group sales, charter business, affinity programs and direct sales channels. She will also focus on expanding distribution, strengthening advisor relationships and supporting continued growth for the company’s Great Lakes and Canadian coastal cruise offerings.

According to the company, the transition period will ensure continuity for its travel advisor partners. 

“Cris brings an extraordinary depth of cruise industry expertise, a proven record of revenue growth, and longstanding relationships throughout the travel advisor community,” said David William Kelly, President and COO of Victory Cruise Lines. “Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue building on our momentum and delivering exceptional Great Lakes experiences for our guests.”

De Souza brings more than 20 years of experience in the cruise, travel and hospitality sectors. Her previous leadership roles include positions with Trafalgar River Cruises, Lindblad Expeditions, Windstar Cruises, Nexion Travel Group, AmaWaterways, Resorts World Bimini and Royal Caribbean Group.

The announcement also marks the beginning of the retirement transition for Salmon, who will leave the company in 2027 following a career spanning more than five decades in the travel, tourism and cruise industries.

Describing him as an “invaluable member of the Victory Cruise Lines family” and a “respected leader within the travel industry for many years,” Kelly added: “His passion for our brand, dedication to our travel advisor partners, and countless contributions to our sales organization have helped shape the success of Victory Cruise Lines. On behalf of our entire team, I want to thank Bob for his outstanding service and continued commitment to the brand.”

For more information on Victory Cruise Lines, call 1-855-556-7193 or go to VictoryCruiseLines.com.

Source: Travelweek
Lead image caption: Cris De Souza