Royal Caribbean Food and Beverage Director Dominique Gamba

Dominique Gamba has left his role as Senior Director of Food and Beverage Operations at Royal Caribbean. He announced his departure via social media posts on September 3 and 4, 2026, according to a report from Cruise Hive.

Gamba expressed gratitude for his time with the cruise giant. "After so many unforgettable years with Royal Caribbean Group, my heart is full," he said. He thanked colleagues for the lessons and shared experiences.

His career with Royal Caribbean Group began in June 2006 with Celebrity Cruises. After a brief period at Viking Ocean Cruises in 2013, he returned to the group that September to work for Royal Caribbean directly. He rose through food and beverage management ranks, reaching his most senior position in July 2026.

Scope of the Role

In his final role, Gamba was responsible for culinary and bar operations across the entire Royal Caribbean fleet. This encompassed 30 ships and more than 450 distinct dining and beverage venues. These venues include main dining rooms, specialty restaurants, quick-service locations, and outlets at private destinations like Perfect Day CocoCay.

His departure so soon after this promotion was noted as a surprise. However, Gamba suggested it might not be a permanent exit. "This is not an ending. Just a pause in the journey, and I truly believe our paths will cross again," he stated in his farewell message.

Colleague Tributes

News of his departure prompted warm responses from industry colleagues. Well-wishes came from executives across different brands within the Royal Caribbean Group.

Aurora Laly Yera-Rodriguez, AVP of Guest Experience at Royal Caribbean, commented on the loss of a foundational team member. Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, the former president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, thanked Gamba for his support over their years working together. She called it an "honor and a privilege."

Mike Szwajkowski, Senior Director of Entertainment for Silversea, praised Gamba's leadership style. He said Gamba's daily passion was inspiring and motivated others to improve.

Gamba's LinkedIn profile, cited in the report, outlines his career progression within the company. The report did not specify his immediate future plans but indicated he may remain in the cruise industry.