Vanessa Picariello
Vanessa Picariello

Vanessa Picariello, global head of PR for Norwegian Cruises Lines, has left her post.

Since NCL doesn't use an outside PR firm, Picariello handled all North American media relations, as well as publicity for brand announcements, product updates, food/beverage enhancements, ship launches and crisis PR.

She was in PR's front lines during the Jan. 4 "Poseidon Adventure"-like cruise of the Norwegian Breakaway, which went ahead with its return to New York from the Bahamas during winter storm Grayson in the "bombogenesis."

NCL apologized to "guests for the stronger than expected weather conditions and any resulting discomfort or inconvenience they may have experienced."

It assured them that safety of guests and crew members "is always our top priority."

Guests received a $500 voucher good for a future cruise.

Picariello joined NCL in 2012 as PR and events manager.

A NCL spokesperson told O'Dwyer's that Picariello has not yet been replaced.