The industry veteran is replacing Pier Luigi Foschi, who retired earlier this month.

In a statement Carnival noted Frank willsupport Costa chief executive officer (CEO) Michael Thamm.

It also pointed out that the executive waswith Carnival Corp for 25 years before stepping down as chief operating officerand vice chairman late last year to serve as special advisor to chairman MickeyArison and CEO Arnold Donald.

Today, Frank is the chairman of theexecutive committee of Cruise Lines International Association, an influentialtrade organisation that represents the interests of the cruise industry.

According to Carnival Corp, CostaCrociere is the only Italian-flagged cruise line in the world and currentlyoperates 14 vessels, which is among the largest fleet of cruiseships in Europe.