James Rodriguez to continue as CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages

Change of plans.

After announcing his intention to step down as president of CEO and Atlas Ocean Voyages, James A. Rodriguez has decided to stay on as leader of the luxury cruise line after all.

In a release Thursday (Dec. 12), Atlas, under Mystic Invest Holding, revealed that Rodriguez will continue “spearheading the brand's growth and success in the competitive expedition cruise market.”

In October, Rodriguez said he would exit Atlas at the end of 2024 “to pursue other opportunities, but it appears he has had a change of heart.

“Over the past years, we have built a talented and passionate team that has positioned Atlas Ocean Voyages as a leader in the fast-growing expedition cruise market,” said Rodriguez in a statement on Dec. 12. “Leading this exceptional group of professionals has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career, and I look forward to driving our continued success together.”

“I am deeply grateful to Mystic Invest Holding Chairman Mário Ferreira and our investors for their commitment to growing Atlas and for entrusting me with the leadership of this innovative brand.”

Atlas Ocean Voyages recently expanded its reach beyond polar expeditions into year-round expeditions, introducing Epicurean Expeditions and Cultural Expeditions.

“The expedition cruise market has experienced explosive growth over the past two years and Atlas Ocean Voyages is well-positioned for 2025, with 70 per cent of inventory already sold,” said Mystic Invest Holding Chairman Mário Ferreira. “James Rodriguez has been instrumental in the success of Atlas Ocean Voyages and is the proven leader to guide its future.”

During Rodriguez’s tenure, “Atlas Ocean Voyages has deepened its relationships with travel advisors and consumers, further solidifying its reputation for delivering unique, intimate expedition experiences,” the company said.

The brand has also strengthened its international presence with a strategic focus on markets in the United Kingdom and Australia.

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