Leadership Shakeup as Royal Caribbean Appoints a New Head of Entertainment

14.05.2024 - 19:41 / travelpulse.com / Royal Caribbean / Royal Caribbean International / Laurie Baratti

Royal Caribbean International has undergone a significant change within its Entertainment division, as Nick Weir, the head of Entertainment, bids farewell after a decade-long tenure with the company.

Replacing Weir is Christine Coachman, who steps into the role of Vice President, Entertainment for Royal Caribbean International, effective immediately.

According to Royal Caribbean Blog, a spokesperson from the cruise line said of his departure, "We thank Nick for his contributions over the years and wish him all the best."

The news was disclosed in an international announcement, through which Sean Treacy, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations at Royal Caribbean, confirmed Coachman's appointment, expressing optimism about the future under her leadership. 

"Please join me in congratulating Christine Coachman on her new role as Vice President, Entertainment for Royal Caribbean International, effective today," he wrote.

"Drawing from nearly 35 years experience at Royal Caribbean, Christi will now lead the team responsible for bringing to life the best entertainment at sea. She will oversee the cruise line’s onboard entertainment and guest activities programming, as well as Royal Caribbean Productions, the industry’s only in-house department that creates, produces and manages the largest entertainment operation at sea."

He added, "I am excited to work even more closely with Christi as we continue to lead the industry in innovating the entertainment experience at sea."

Weir, who has been the head of Entertainment for Royal Caribbean since 2013, carried with him a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in both the entertainment and cruise industries. His departure marks the end of an era characterized by numerous innovative projects and ambitious plans for the future.

Weir's contributions include the creation of original productions, such as Columbus the Musical, Effectors, Flight and Aqua 80s. He also holds a few patents for pioneering advancements incorporated into the Royal Caribbean experience, like the eMuster process for maritime safety drills and the Water-based Pyrotechnic Illusion. 

His latest achievements are showcased aboard the line’s newest megaship, Icon of the Seas, which boasts a wide variety of new shows and entertainment venues.

Weir’s replacement, Christine Coachman, brings an impressive amount of experience to the position. Having begun her career as a dancer and performer, Coachman later transitioned to roles within Royal Caribbean's Entertainment Department, where she contributed significantly to the development and execution of various productions and shows.

Her expertise extends to writing, casting, and producing numerous productions for the cruise line, as well as managing