Hornblower Group, renowned for its ferry services and diverse day tours, recently announced the appointment of Lisa Lutoff-Perlo as chairwoman of the board. This development marks a significant pivot for the company, which has just navigated the choppy waters of a Chapter 11 bankruptcy and a subsequent financial overhaul. The restructuring transitioned Hornblower under the auspices of Strategic Value Partners, a private equity firm committed to revitalizing the company’s potential. The timing of Lutoff-Perlo’s leadership couldn’t be more crucial as the company seeks to redefine its objectives and stabilize its operations post-bankruptcy.
Previously, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo served as the CEO of Celebrity Cruises, where she not only oversaw the launch of the groundbreaking Edge-class ships but also championed a corporate culture that emphasized diversity and empowerment, particularly for women in the workplace. Her advocacy for inclusion and progressive values has earned her a reputation as a transformative leader in the cruise industry. Currently, she also wears the hat of president and CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee, further cementing her standing in high-profile leadership roles. Lutoff-Perlo’s multifaceted background equips her with unique insights that could be instrumental in steering Hornblower towards sustained success.
In her new position, Lutoff-Perlo is expected to establish a focused strategic direction for Hornblower Group. She recognizes the company’s rich legacy of providing exceptional experiences and plans to capitalize on that heritage to reassure stakeholders of the brand’s enduring value. Her excitement about joining Hornblower at a “pivotal time” underlines her commitment to rejuvenating the company while maintaining its core mission. As Hornblower faces the challenge of redefining its service offerings post-bankruptcy, her guidance could forge a pathway toward innovation and customer-centric development.
Joining Lutoff-Perlo in the leadership transition is Mike Flaskey, the newly appointed CEO who recently parted ways with Kevin Rabbitt. This leadership duo represents a new chapter, with a shared vision for reform and revitalization at Hornblower Group. Flaskey’s enthusiasm in welcoming Lutoff-Perlo highlights the potential synergies between their experiences and the strategic initiatives required to align the company’s capabilities with market demands. Together, they are charged with the formidable task of rebuilding a company that not only survived a financial crisis but is now well-positioned to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Hornblower Group stands at a crossroads, and the appointment of Lisa Lutoff-Perlo as chairwoman symbolizes a commitment to both innovation and stability. As she steps into this pivotal role, all eyes will be on her leadership to navigate the company through its next chapter. By fostering a culture that prizes exceptional experiences and progressive values, Lutoff-Perlo is poised to steer Hornblower Group toward a thriving future, taking into account its rich heritage while embracing the challenges of the modernized travel landscape. The industry will be watching closely as Hornblower aims to reclaim its place among the leaders in expeditionary and leisure services.