Billionaire Profile
Bent Wilhelmsen
Global Rank
#1646

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

Bent Wilhelmsen

CEO, cruise ships
NORWAY
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.501B
Estimated based on cruise ships stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.81% (24h)
Age
66
Source
cruise ships
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
NORWAY

Biography

Bent Wilhelmsen is a Norwegian billionaire and heir to the family that co-founded Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. As of February 2026, his net worth is estimated at $4.1 billion. He co-owns the family business through Awas Holding, an investment group that also owns Linstow, a real estate company with significant projects in Norway and the Baltics. Wilhelmsen is involved in steering the family's diversified holdings, with a focus on long-term value creation within the cruise, real estate, and financial sectors.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Bent Christian Wilhelmsen is part of the Wilhelmsen family, which has a long history in the maritime industry. His father, Arne Wilhelmsen, co-founded Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and Bent inherited his stake in the family business.

Rise to Success

Bent Wilhelmsen's wealth stems primarily from his family's significant ownership in Royal Caribbean Group. He co-owns the family business through Awas Holding. Awas Holding is also involved in real estate, offshore, and financial assets.

Key Business Strategies

Wilhelmsen focuses on long-term value creation within the family's diversified holdings. The family's investments are managed through Awilhelmsen, which has evolved from a shipping company to an investment firm.

Philanthropy

The Wilhelmsen family supports various educational opportunities in Norway aligned with their maritime heritage through the A. Wilhelmsen Foundation. Additionally, the Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme (LWAAP) assists mid-career artists with exposure and financial support. Wilstar, another family entity, invests in social entrepreneurs and advocacy groups.

Career Milestones

2020

Inherited Family Business

Inherited the family business through Awas Holding after his father's death.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

A. Wilhelmsen Foundation

N/A

Supports research and education at Norwegian colleges and universities.

Arts

Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme (LWAAP)

N/A

Assists mid-career artists.

Social Impact

Wilstar Investments

N/A

Invests in social entrepreneurs and advocacy groups.