The cruise industry isn’t just about all-you-can-eat buffets, ocean views, and laid-back days at sea. Behind it all, a handful of business moguls are calling the shots—turning the high seas into their empire and raking in fortunes big enough to buy their own private islands (and some probably have!). 

Let’s take a closer look at the power players shaping the world of cruising!

Gianluigi & Rafaela Aponte: The Power Couple of the Waves
What’s better than one billionaire running a cruise empire? Two billionaires doing it together! Gianluigi and Rafaela Aponte founded the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), and today, they command one of the largest container shipping and cruise fleets in the world. While you’re sipping cocktails on an MSC cruise, just remember—this couple’s net worth is a staggering $33.1 billion as of 2024. Who needs a retirement plan when you own a fleet?

Eyal Ofer: Sailing in Luxury and Real Estate
If there’s money to be made at sea, Eyal Ofer has probably already made it. As chairman of Zodiac Group, he oversees a vast fleet and holds a hefty stake in Royal Caribbean Group. But why stop at cruise ships when you can also dominate real estate? Ofer’s properties stretch across major global markets, adding to his $24 billion fortune. 

Micky Arison: From Cruise Decks to Basketball Courts
Micky Arison isn’t just the chairman of Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise company—he’s also the proud owner of the Miami Heat. Yes, while you’re booking your next Caribbean getaway, Arison is making sure his NBA team stays on top. With a net worth of $9.1 billion as of 2025, he’s got enough cash to buy courtside seats for every Carnival guest (but don’t count on it).

Torstein Hagen: The Viking of the Cruise World
If you love sophisticated river and ocean cruises, you have Torstein Hagen to thank. The founder and CEO of Viking Cruises, Hagen has transformed the luxury travel experience, particularly for baby boomers who prefer elegance over water slides. His cruise empire was valued at $10.4 billion in 2024, proving that slow and steady (sailing) wins the race.

Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio: The King of Silversea
Luxury cruising wouldn’t be the same without Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio. As the former owner of Silversea Cruises, he took the high-end cruise experience to another level before selling a majority stake to Royal Caribbean in 2018. He hasn’t stopped there—his investments span real estate and hospitality, adding to his $1.7 billion fortune. Not too shabby for a guy who made waves with ultra-luxury at sea!

These industry giants have turned the cruise business into a multi-billion-dollar empire, proving that there’s serious money to be made on the open seas. Whether they’re investing in real estate, basketball teams, or luxury yachts, one thing is certain: they’ve mastered the art of making money!