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Billionaire Profile
Bent Wilhelmsen
Global Rank
#1759

Image: SAS Scandinavian Airlines | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Bent Wilhelmsen

CEO, cruise ships
Nyon, Switzerland
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.36B
Estimated based on cruise ships stock value as of September 10, 2026
-1.21% (24h)
Age
66
Source
cruise ships
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
Norway

Biography

Bent Wilhelmsen, born in 1960, is a prominent figure in the maritime industry and a key shareholder in Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. As a principal in Awas Holding, a family-owned investment group, Wilhelmsen has played a significant role in steering the family's diversified holdings, focusing on long-term value creation. His career has been marked by involvement in the cruise industry, real estate, and financial asset management, solidifying his position among the world's wealthiest individuals. His expertise in the maritime sector and strategic investment decisions have contributed to his significant net worth.

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Data Updated
Sep 10, 2026
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Wealth Over Time

Net Worth History

YearNet Worth
2026$2.36B
2025$2.70B
2024$2.60B

Portfolio Holdings

Wallenius Wilhelmsen ASA

Wallenius Wilhelmsen ASA

WWI.OLMarine Freight & Logistics
$158B
Holdings Value
Ownership
23.58%
Market Cap
$3.14B
Stock Price
$76.83
Lysaker, Norway
17,997 employees
Founded 1861
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

RCLHospitality
Ownership
12%
Miami, Florida, USA
98,000 employees
Founded 1968

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Bent Wilhelmsen is part of the Wilhelmsen family, deeply rooted in the Norwegian maritime industry. His family's legacy began with the founding of Wilh. Wilhelmsen in 1861 by Morten Wilhelm Wilhelmsen. This company evolved from ship brokering to become a major player in global shipping. Bent Wilhelmsen inherited a significant stake in the family business, including co-ownership of Awas Holding.

Rise to Success

Bent Wilhelmsen's rise to success is closely tied to his family's long-standing involvement in the cruise and shipping industries. A significant portion of the family's wealth stems from their stake in Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. Through Awas Holding, Bent Wilhelmsen has been instrumental in managing and growing the family's diversified investment portfolio. The family’s focus on long-term value creation has been a guiding principle.

Key Business Strategies

The Wilhelmsen family's business strategies include strategic investments in cruise ships, real estate, and financial assets. These diversified holdings showcase a long-term approach to wealth management. The family has also been involved in the development of major real estate projects. The family's investments extend into the shipping industry and also includes involvement in various business sectors. The family prioritizes responsible and sustainable practices in their investments.

Philanthropy

Bent Wilhelmsen, through his family, is involved in philanthropic initiatives. The A. Wilhelmsen Foundation was founded in memory of Anders Wilhelmsen, the founder of the Awilhelmsen group of companies and his wife Aslaug Wilhelmsen. The foundation awards scholarships and supports maritime education, and other similar projects. Historically, the family has contributed to many research and education related measures with the main emphasis in the maritime sector.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Maritime

A. Wilhelmsen Foundation

Undisclosed

Awards scholarships and supports maritime education.

Billionaires Connected to Bent Wilhelmsen

Peers in Diversified

All Diversified billionaires

Richest in Norway

All billionaires from Norway

Adjacent Global Ranks

Full global ranking

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bent Wilhelmsen's net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Bent Wilhelmsen's estimated net worth is $2.363 billion, ranking #1759 among the world's billionaires. The estimate is based on publicly available shareholding data and market prices, updated daily.
How did Bent Wilhelmsen make their money?
Bent Wilhelmsen's wealth primarily comes from cruise ships, most notably through cruise ships.
Where is Bent Wilhelmsen from?
Bent Wilhelmsen is from Norway.
How old is Bent Wilhelmsen?
Bent Wilhelmsen is 66 years old.

Sources & References

  1. Bent Wilhelmsen — Forbes profile Forbes