Meet Ralph de Klijn
​Ralph de Klijn is a distinguished executive with a robust international presence, having shaped the hospitality and cruise industries across multiple continents. Originally from the Netherlands and based in the UK, Ralph brings over 25 years of strategic leadership and operational excellence to the table. His expertise spans a wide array of business models, from boutique and luxury cruising to large-scale B2B ventures, always pushing the boundaries of guest experience and operational efficiency.
With a career that includes senior roles at top-tier cruise lines such as Viking Cruises, Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent Seven Seas, Ralph has consistently elevated industry standards. At Viking Cruises, he was pivotal in launching six new ships and creating the world’s first full-dome planetarium at sea, an innovation recognized by TIME Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places to Stay.” His leadership has not only improved guest satisfaction but also driven significant revenue growth while optimizing operational performance.
In 2021, Ralph took his wealth of experience into entrepreneurship with the founding of iStrive Ltd., a consulting and management company that leverages his expertise to foster growth and innovation in the cruise and hospitality sectors. His forward-thinking approach is further exemplified through the co-creation of Transcend Cruises, a groundbreaking B2B river cruise venture set to launch its new vessels in 2026. Ralph's ability to blend operational insight with entrepreneurial agility ensures that he remains at the forefront of industry innovation.
Ralph has consistently delivered remarkable business results, from improving operational efficiencies to maximizing profitability. His hands-on approach to leadership has been instrumental in shaping both startups and established brands, contributing to their sustained growth and market expansion. His advisory role with a private equity group underscores his ability to drive success in new ventures, delivering exceptional value to stakeholders and investors alike.
Known for his forward-thinking vision, Ralph is deeply committed to sustainable practices and ethical leadership. His passion for innovation is evident not only in his groundbreaking projects but also in his focus on integrating environmental sustainability into business operations, ensuring long-term value for both companies and the planet.
Meet Johan Halvarsson
Johan Halvarsson is a seasoned executive with a robust international footprint, having led operations across four continents in the hospitality sector. With an exemplary track record in managing luxury, family, and all-inclusive business models, Johan's expertise is in elevating service standards and profitability across diverse markets. His strategic approach combines meticulous benchmarking and a relentless drive for continuous improvement, setting new paradigms in delivering premier accommodations and multidimensional guest experiences.
Unrivaled Industry Expertise: As a venerated authority in hotel, resort, and cruise line management, Johan has accumulated over 20 prestigious awards. His deep understanding and innovative management practices have significantly shaped the luxury accommodation landscape.
Remarkable Profit Boosts: Known for his strategic prowess, Johan has been instrumental in designing and implementing growth plans for startups and established brands alike. His efforts have notably increased profitability for a conglomerate managing assets worth $250M and employing over 1,000
professionals.
Board & Stakeholder Relations: Johan is dedicated to maximizing stakeholder value, adeptly balancing the needs of executives, owners, and shareholders. His contributions extend to serving on and consulting for various executive boards and committees, where he is highly regarded for his insights and strategic guidance.
Grooming the Next Generation: Geared towards entry level, supervisory and leadership development, Johan has developed training curriculums and structures for all positions within hospitality and culinary, academies aimed towards key cruises, crew sourcing markets in South east Asia as well
as hospitality and tourism sector in the Caribbean in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and Maria. He inspires teams to exceed expectations by fostering a culture of excellence and clear, visionary leadership.
Risk Mitigation: Expert in crisis management, Johan has developed comprehensive contingency plans for health and safety, including pandemic response strategies covering a range of scenarios from Covid-19 to natural disasters.