Impact of the European Digital Identity in Tourism

26-12-24

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has named Charles “Bud” Darr as its next president and CEO, effective February 3, 2025. This announcement marks a new phase for the organization, which seeks to consolidate its global leadership in the cruise industry while working on key initiatives related to sustainability, innovation and maritime regulation.

Bud Darr returns to CLIA after playing a pivotal role in the organization from 2010 to 2017, leading its maritime technical and regulatory efforts. For the past seven years, he has been executive vice president of maritime policy and government relations at MSC Group, where he played a key role in developing sustainability policies and managing relationships with international bodies.

His career includes a distinguished experience in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he served as deputy director of maritime and international law. In addition, he served in the U.S. Navy and Merchant Marine, accumulating decades of experience in maritime, regulatory and operational matters. Darr earned a degree in submarine nuclear engineering and a law degree from George Washington University, underscoring his strong technical and legal background.