Neil Palomba ~ Chief Operating Officer

Neil has had a leadership role in handling key aspects of MSC Cruises’ global business. Raised in a small town outside Sorrento, Italy, Neil began his career with the company onboard ship as a night steward in the information office; during his days at sea, he spent his free hours on the bridge, honing his navigational skills in preparation for earning his certification as a ship captain. His tenure at sea included time on the Symphony (when it was part of what was then known as Starlauro Cruises/MSC Cruise Lines) and then MSC Rhapsody. His efforts were recognized and he was promoted to MSC Cruises’ Sorrento offices. He was then charged with overseeing the building of the MSC Lirica and MSC Opera and their transfer from the shipyard to the MSC Cruises fleet, as well as taking delivery of MSC Armonia (formerly the European Vision) when it was purchased by the line in 2004. As COO, Neil is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Fort Lauderdale-based North American general sales and marketing arm of MSC Crociere SA with a focus on organizing the U.S. operations to
promote profitable growth.