• 3 min de lectura
• 3 min de lectura
Leyla R. Osorio, CEO of Global Cruises, shares her cruise industry firsts.
September 7, 2026
After cruising on 47 ships, Leyla R Osorio believes she has a committed relationship with the industryPHOTO: Global Cruises
Describe the first time you saw a cruise ship.
I don't quite remember the first cruise ship I ever saw, but I definitely remember the first one I boarded: Royal Caribbean International's Navigator of the Seas in 2006. I had no idea then how important cruising would eventually become in my life. It made quite an impression; I'm still here!
What was the first cruise-related company you worked for as a young professional, and what was the role?
I truly fell in love with the industry in 2009, while sailing on RCI's Voyager of the Seas from Barcelona through the Mediterranean. I became fascinated by everything happening behind the scenes to make the guest experience feel effortless. That was when I knew I wanted to be part of this industry. My professional journey in cruising began through the evolution of what today is Global Cruises, which I co-founded and now lead as CEO.
What was your first cruise experience as a passenger?
My first cruise was in 2006 aboard Navigator of the Seas, sailing the Western Caribbean. It was also my first time in Cozumel, which, looking back, feels almost prophetic. Since then, cruising has become my favourite way to travel, and I've now sailed on 47 ships with my husband and children. I still love the service, the destinations, and, of course, the luxury of unpacking once while your hotel takes you somewhere new every morning. After 47 ships, I think it's safe to say cruising and I are in a committed relationship!
Name your first cruise industry mentor or inspiration
My first inspiration wasn't one person; it was the cruise industry itself. I was fascinated by the entire ecosystem: ships, destinations, ports, operators, guides and communities all working together to create extraordinary experiences. The more I learned, the more I wanted to be part of it. I was, and honestly still am, amazed by how it all comes together.
And your first memory of a Seatrade Cruise event?
My first Seatrade was in our early days. We had invested in a booth and arrived full of excitement, only to realize we didn't exactly have a calendar packed with meetings! So we got out there, introduced ourselves, and started conversations. It taught me two important lessons: opportunities don't always come to your booth, you have to also to be active, and always bring a pair of flat shoes!
