Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management has named Larry Pimentel as its first distinguished executive-in-residence for cruise curriculum development. Pimentel, a veteran in the luxury cruise sector, brings over 30 years of experience to the role and is recognized as one of the leading authorities in passenger shipping. He has previously served as CEO for several prominent cruise brands, including Azamara, SeaDream Yacht Club, Cunard Line, Seabourn, and was most recently the founding president and CEO of Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings.
Pimentel’s contributions to the industry have been acknowledged with his induction into the British Travel & Hospitality Hall of Fame. His leadership is credited with shaping modern cruising through innovation and strategic vision.
Michael Cheng, dean of the Chaplin School, commented on the appointment: “Larry Pimentel’s career continues to build on a remarkable legacy of innovation and impact. His influence has shaped the industry for decades, and his guidance at FIU will give our students unmatched access to expertise and inspiration. This appointment places Miami, and FIU, at the very center of the global conversation on cruise leadership.”
The initiative supports the school’s mission to advance global thought leadership and strengthen partnerships within the hospitality sector. Miami serves as headquarters for major U.S.-based cruise lines such as Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean Group, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. The Chaplin School aims to use Miami’s status as a global hub for cruising to enhance its research capabilities and educational offerings in various segments of cruise operations.
FIU’s Chaplin School is noted for being the only program offering both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in cruise line operations management.
Pimentel expressed his enthusiasm about joining FIU: “I am honored to join FIU’s Chaplin School in this distinguished role. Miami is the heartbeat of the cruise industry, and this initiative offers a unique platform to shape its future while mentoring the next generation of leaders.”
In partnership with Thatcher Brown, CEO of Crescent Seas, Pimentel will also contribute to forming a Cruise Advisory Board. This board will connect industry executives with faculty and students to encourage collaboration and innovation within hospitality education.
The new appointment represents an important step for FIU’s Chaplin School as it seeks to broaden its international reach and reinforce its position as a leader in experiential learning within hospitality management.
For more information about Larry Pimentel’s appointment or details about FIU’s Cruise Line Operations programs, interested parties are encouraged to visit the school’s website.
