Work
The clients below are named with their permission. Where the work is confidential we say so and describe only the shape of it.
Owner's representation and restructuring. Ongoing.
Sea Cloud Cruises
Guest experience design and set-up. November 2025 to AUGUST 2026.
Vidanta World Elegant
A 216-guest vessel relaunched in April 2026 after an extensive refurbishment, with a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio and a full programme of venues to build from scratch. iStrive designed several guest expreiences on this yacht, from November 2025 to launch in April 2026: concept, operating model, procedures, recruitment and installation of the teams. Delivered on time for the April 2026 launch our services and support are ongoing..
Experience review, cost savings, training programme. Retained.
Saga Cruises
A British operator known for investing in its crew, which asked for an outside view on the onboard experience and on cost. iStrive evaluated the experience across the ships, identified the issues and the improvements needed, found cost savings, and then developed the full training programme and the onboard values. We remain involved in the implementation. A 90-day engagement became an ongoing retainer.
Investor advisory and interim COO.
Cheyne Capital, CFC and the Renaissance
A European alternative investment manager acquiring and reviving the French cruise line CFC, whose vessel Renaissance was late out of the yard. iStrive advised Cheyne through the set-up and transition, and Ralph served as interim Chief Operating Officer: getting the ship out of the yard, preparing her for the inaugural sailing, transitioning the technical manager and bringing hotel services in-house. CFC was positioned for sustainable operations and merged with the Ambassador Group.
Onboard set-up, structure and supply chain. Completed 2026.
Hibernia Line
A ferry operator setting up its onboard business and the company around it. iStrive supported the onboard set-up, the organisational structure, the supply chain and the optimisation of the overall company. Engagement completed 2026.
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Co-creator and newbuild advisory. Ongoing.
Transcend Cruises
A new river cruise line built for the MICE market, launched in August 2026 with newbuild tonnage. Ralph is a co-creator and shareholder, and iStrive advised throughout the building and outfitting of the vessel and on strategy for the inaugural season. Launched August 2026; the strategic partnership continues.
"Working with Ralph and his iStrive team has become an essential part of our efforts in executing our elevated river cruise line brand content. With a strong knowledge in cruise line hospitality, iStrive's understanding of operational impact and their hands-on effort is allowing us to execute within timing and budgetary constraints. As we have a series of new ships on order, we will continue to count on iStrive as part of our strategy implementation."
Hans Rood, CEO, Transcend Cruises
Chairman of the board. Ongoing.
EWP
A specialist entertainment technology and systems integrator serving cruise ships, hotels and venues. Ralph is chairman of the board, with quarterly board meetings and ongoing advice to the leadership team on growth and business development.
"Our partnership with iStrive Limited has proven transformative in elevating our entertainment technology implementations across the cruise industry. Their expertise in both maritime operations and entertainment systems has made them an indispensable ally in our growth journey. Led by Ralph de Klijn, whose 25-year career spans leadership roles at Viking Cruises, Silversea, and other prestigious lines, iStrive excels at bridging technical innovation with operational excellence."
Paul Byrne, Managing Director, EWP
Exclusive partner for cruise, river cruise, yacht and ferry.
DEX QM
A Dutch lubricant technology with RINA-certified fuel savings, new to the cruise sector. iStrive is the exclusive partner for cruise, river cruise, yacht and ferry. We built the operational case, secured the first trials and introductions, and now work with operators adopting it. Result for operators: 4 to 6% fuel savings, lower emissions and EU ETS exposure, and reduced engine wear and maintenance. Cruise lines are now using it.
"iStrive has achieved exceptional results with their strategic services and insights in introducing our revolutionary DEX QM technology to the cruise industry. Their unique mix of knowledge, the right connections and partnership has ensured that we can do business quickly and efficiently with decision makers in this industry who appreciate our technology and can benefit from it. That is why we highly recommend iStrive for any organisation looking for an efficient partner to serve as your compass in the cruise industry."
Mark Minkels, DEX QM Premium Lubricants
Cruise market entry. Ongoing.
Hanseatic Maritime Health and Hanseatic Connect
Maritime medical services and crew staffing, part of the Schulte Group, entering the cruise sector. iStrive represents both companies to cruise lines, resorts and yachts and supports the commercial approach. Several cruise lines added since the partnership began.
Strategic advisory
ASAF Shipping Group
Strategic advisory on operational excellence and business development across the group's cruise services, agency and logistics network, with offices from Istanbul to Singapore and Cape Town.
"iStrive has been pivotal in transforming our maritime operations. Their strategic brokerage services and global network have enabled us to navigate complex market landscapes and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Their dedication to excellence and commitment to delivering tailored solutions have made them an indispensable partner in our growth journey."
Testimonial, CEO, ASAF Shipping Group
Advisory engagementS & PARTNERSHIPS.
BSM Cruise Services
Advisory engagements with BSM Cruise Services.
"With their deep industry knowledge, iStrive consistently provides valuable insights and effective solutions to complex challenges. The professionalism, extensive network, and experience of their leadership team have ensured exceptional outcomes for BSM Cruise Services in every engagement. Their expertise makes them a trusted partner for organizations navigating the maritime and hospitality sectors."
Martin Springer, President, BSM Cruise Services
Hospitality training and crisis management. 2017 to 2021.
St. Maarten Training Foundation
After the 2017 hurricanes, Johan Halvarsson secured two academy facilities, built the curricula and led a programme that trained over 3,000 people.
"After Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, the St. Maarten Training Foundation partnered with iStrive's Johan Halvarsson to help rebuild our hospitality workforce. Johan's leadership in crisis management and training was instrumental. He secured two academy facilities and developed industry-relevant curricula tailored to both immediate recovery and long-term growth. His cruise and resort experience enriched our vocational programs, helping train over 3,000 students. Even after our mission ended in 2021, iStrive's support continued."
Keith Graham, President, St. Maarten Training Foundation