Martin Blanar
Calgary,Canada
Summary
Global leader in ultra-luxury and expedition cruise operations with a track record of driving performance across complex, multi-departmental environments. Brings executive-level experience spanning shipboard leadership and startup advisory, with deep expertise in operational strategy, service excellence, and organizational alignment. Trusted to lead high-value assets, build and mentor senior teams, and deliver consistently elevated guest experiences in dynamic international settings.
Results-driven executive with extensive experience in strategic leadership and operational excellence. Proven track record in driving growth, optimizing processes, and fostering team collaboration. Exceptional skills in strategic planning, financial management, and stakeholder engagement. Adaptable and reliable, consistently achieving high-impact results in dynamic environments.
Overview
1
1
Certification
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President, Hotel Operations (Contract)
Dragon Cruises / World Cruises
01.2025 - 01.2026
- Provided executive advisory support for the development and launch of a new cruise brand. Guided hotel operations strategy, including organizational structure, leadership recruitment, procurement alignment, and budget development. Played a key role in establishing operational readiness frameworks.
Hotel General Manager / Hotel Director
Scenic Group (Scenic & Emerald Cruises)
01.2023 - 01.2025
- Held full responsibility for hotel operations onboard luxury expedition vessels. Led all service divisions to deliver a high-end, brand-aligned guest experience. Contributed to new vessel launch readiness and operational integration.
Hotel General Manager / Hotel Director
Silversea Cruises (Royal Caribbean Group)
01.2009 - 01.2023
- Led hotel operations across ultra-luxury cruise ships, overseeing all departments and senior leadership teams. Accountable for operational performance, service delivery, and guest satisfaction. Drove continuous improvement across service standards and execution in a highly competitive luxury environment.
Skills
- Team leadership
- Decision-making
- Critical thinking
- Coaching and mentoring
- Complex Problem-solving
- Strategic planning
- Business development
- Results-driven
- Operations management
- Process improvement
- Training and mentoring
- Performance monitoring
- Contract negotiation
- Budget oversight
- Corporate communications
- Industry best practices
- Public speaking
- Policy and procedure development
Accomplishments
Achieved Public Health readiness multiple times with a flawless record. USPH, CPH and International designations
Successful launching of two new-builds and several refurbishment projects.
Certification
U.S. Public Health Certification
STCW Updated Certification (Maritime)
Timeline
Vice President, Hotel Operations (Contract)
Dragon Cruises / World Cruises
01.2025 - 01.2026
Hotel General Manager / Hotel Director
Scenic Group (Scenic & Emerald Cruises)
01.2023 - 01.2025
Hotel General Manager / Hotel Director
Silversea Cruises (Royal Caribbean Group)
01.2009 - 01.2023
EXECUTIVE IMPACT
- Directed end-to-end hotel operations for ultra-luxury cruise vessels, with full accountability for service delivery, operational performance, and guest experience.
- Played a central role in new vessel launch readiness, aligning staffing models, operational frameworks, and brand standards.
- Advised startup cruise leadership on hotel operations strategy, including organizational design, procurement, and financial structure.
- Built and led multicultural leadership teams, strengthening execution, accountability, and service consistency across departments.
- Recognized for stabilizing operations, improving service delivery, and reinforcing luxury brand positioning.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
- Hotel & Fleet Operations | Luxury Guest Experience | Operational Strategy
- Pre-Opening & Launch Execution | Budgeting & Financial Oversight
- Procurement & Vendor Strategy | Leadership Development | Service Recovery