Luxury cruise leader Oceania Cruises has officially appointed Danieli Enes as its new Business Development Manager for New Zealand, starting July 28, 2025, as part of a broader strategy to solidify its presence in the region’s growing luxury travel market. The move aligns with the brand’s ambitious Asia-Pacific expansion strategy and commitment to engaging more deeply with New Zealand’s travel trade sector.
Enes brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked in key leadership positions in both cruise and destination management sectors. Her deep understanding of regional travel trends, along with strong connections across the industry, positions her to lead Oceania Cruises’ next phase of growth in New Zealand.
Enes’ Cruise and Tourism Background Anchors New Role
Prior to this new appointment, Danieli Enes served as Assistant Destination Services Manager for both Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises in New Zealand. In that role, she oversaw shore excursion operations, coordinated port logistics, and ensured seamless guest experiences at multiple destinations throughout the country.
Enes further honed her expertise as Key Account Manager at ID New Zealand, one of the country’s leading destination management companies. There, she managed high-value client relationships, collaborated closely with travel advisors, and developed tailor-made travel packages for inbound tourists. Her proficiency in product development and understanding of New Zealand’s premium tourism market will be pivotal in her role at Oceania Cruises.
Expanding Oceania Cruises in New Zealand
In her capacity as Business Development Manager, Enes will spearhead initiatives to strengthen Oceania Cruises’ visibility in New Zealand. Her responsibilities will include:
- Enhancing brand recognition among New Zealand’s high-end travelers
- Building and deepening partnerships with local travel advisors
- Executing sales strategies tailored to the needs of Kiwi cruisers
- Promoting Oceania Cruises’ signature offerings such as gourmet dining, immersive itineraries, and mid-sized luxury ships
Oceania Cruises, a brand under the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. portfolio, is globally renowned for offering destination-focused itineraries aboard intimate ships that combine elegant onboard experiences with exceptional culinary journeys.
Industry Endorsements and Strategic Outlook
James Sitters, Director of Sales Asia Pacific at Oceania Cruises, praised Enes’ appointment, noting her valuable connections and in-depth market knowledge.
“Danieli is a dynamic addition to our team. Her understanding of the luxury cruise sector and her ability to cultivate strategic relationships will be vital as we grow our footprint in New Zealand. We are confident she will help us reach our ambitious goals for the region,” said Sitters.
Enes expressed excitement about the opportunity, adding,
“I am thrilled to take on this role with Oceania Cruises and to work alongside New Zealand’s incredible network of travel advisors. I look forward to enhancing awareness of our world-class product and expanding our reach among luxury cruise travelers.”
Supporting New Zealand’s Luxury Cruise Demand
New Zealand’s cruise sector is rebounding strongly post-pandemic, supported by high traveler intent and rising demand for premium experiences. According to Tourism Industry Aotearoa, cruise tourism contributed over NZD $500 million to the national economy pre-COVID, with Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, and Fiordland as key ports of call.
The luxury segment, in particular, has seen significant momentum. Oceania Cruises’ focus on small-ship experiences, fine dining, and destination-rich itineraries matches the preferences of discerning New Zealand travelers looking for immersive, boutique-style cruise experiences.
The New Zealand Cruise Association has also welcomed the return of smaller, upscale cruise brands, emphasizing their value to regional economies and local tour operators.
Enes to Drive Localized Growth Strategy
Danieli Enes will play a pivotal role in tailoring Oceania Cruises’ offerings to the New Zealand market. This includes developing exclusive promotions, coordinating local marketing efforts, and ensuring travel advisors are equipped with the tools and insights needed to connect luxury travelers with Oceania’s itineraries.
She will also focus on attracting new-to-cruise clients by highlighting Oceania’s flexible sailing options, regional departures, and upcoming ship enhancements, such as Vista and Allura, the newest additions to the fleet. These vessels exemplify the brand’s hallmark “finest cuisine at sea,” relaxed elegance, and immersive destination programming.
The Bigger Picture: Asia-Pacific and Beyond
Enes’ appointment is part of Oceania Cruises’ wider Asia-Pacific expansion. The company is actively increasing its regional footprint, with future itineraries planned for destinations including Australia, Indonesia, Japan, and the South Pacific. New Zealand will continue to play a strategic role in this growth, both as a source market and cruise destination.
Oceania Cruises also maintains a strong commitment to sustainable tourism practices, a key priority for both local and global cruise stakeholders. The brand continues to align with international environmental guidelines and port sustainability goals while offering enriching cultural and shore-side experiences.
Final Word
With Enes at the helm of business development, Oceania Cruises is set to deepen its engagement with New Zealand’s affluent travelers and expand its market share in the Asia-Pacific luxury cruise segment. Her leadership is expected to enhance Oceania’s relationships with the travel trade and further elevate the brand’s reputation for excellence.
As the 2025–2026 cruise season approaches, Oceania Cruises is poised to be a top choice for Kiwis seeking elegant, enriching voyages that blend sophistication with cultural exploration.
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