MIAMI (March 23, 2026) – Veteran Disney Cruise Line executive, Russell Daya, has announced his retirement after a distinguished career spanning nearly five decades in the maritime industry.
His maritime career includes seven years as a captain in command and nearly three decades with Disney Cruise Line where he played a pivotal role from the company’s early development to its current operation of eight vessels, with five more on the way.
Daya, who serves as executive director of Marine & Port Operations, Port Developments and Itinerary Planning, shared this month that “after more than 28 years at Disney Cruise Line, it is finally time to drop anchor, and I will be retiring at the end of April.”
Reflecting on the future, Daya said his next chapter will focus on what matters most: “my health, my wife, family and friends, and a growing list of passions including travel, cruising, golf, skiing, pickleball and helping my wife with her business.”
He acknowledged that stepping away will not be easy. “I’m leaving a company I love deeply and a cruise industry career that has brought incredible highs, challenging moments and countless memories,” said Daya. “I will forever be grateful for my mentors, partners and friends across Disney Cruise Line, The Walt Disney Company, the cruise industry, and around the world in the ports and destinations that helped shape both the success of Disney Cruise Line operations and me personally.”
Daya also expressed appreciation to his colleagues. “To my team and fellow cast members, officers and crew members within Disney Cruise Line, thank you for your unwavering support, dedication and professionalism through every challenge and triumph. Working alongside you has been one of the greatest honors of my career.”
Daya is expected to attend next month’s Seatrade Cruise Global scheduled for April 13–16 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
