Vice Admiral Bill Burke Retires After Distinguished Career

After almost 50 years of dedicated service in the maritime industry, Vice Admiral (Ret.) William (Bill) Burke is embarking on a new journey: retirement. Bill’s illustrious career spans from commanding submarines in the U.S. Navy to leading global maritime operations at Carnival Corporation.

In 2013, Bill joined Carnival Corporation as Chief Maritime Officer, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a strategic vision for operational excellence. Throughout his tenure, he focused on enhancing safety protocols, implementing innovative environmental initiatives, and championing fleetwide training programs to ensure the highest standards of excellence.

During the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Bill played a pivotal role in coordinating the company’s response efforts, including facilitating crew repatriations and developing comprehensive wellness frameworks for both crew and guests. His leadership was instrumental in guiding Carnival Corporation through turbulent waters.

In 2021, Bill spearheaded the company’s commitment to carbon reduction and the Maritime Decarbonization Initiative, aligning Carnival Corporation with the International Maritime Organization’s ambitious sustainability goals for 2030 and 2050.

Recently transitioning to the role of External Affairs Adviser as Lars Ljoen assumed the position of Chief Maritime Officer, Bill has now made the decision to fully retire, starting on July 10. His legacy at Carnival Corporation is marked by integrity, innovation, and a relentless dedication to the maritime industry and its people.

Looking ahead to this new chapter, Bill expressed his desire to spend more time with his family, particularly his seven grandsons who hold him in high regard. He extended his gratitude to his colleagues at Carnival Corporation and the thousands of individuals who work tirelessly in the company’s fleet.

As Vice Admiral Bill Burke sets sail into retirement, his impact on the maritime world will continue to resonate, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence and leadership.