Billionaire Profile
Peter Preben Wilhelmsen
Global Rank
#1184

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Peter Preben Wilhelmsen

CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
Norway
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.4B
As of December 2025
Age
63
Source
cruise ships
Industry
diversified
Citizenship
Norway

Biography

Peter Preben Wilhelmsen, a prominent figure in the maritime industry, is the heir to the family that co-founded Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. As of 2024, he holds an estimated net worth of $3.4 billion, primarily derived from his family's significant stake in the cruise ship sector. Wilhelmsen is a key player in Awas Holding, a family-owned investment group managing cruise, real estate, and financial assets, showcasing his strategic role in diversifying the family's wealth. His career has been marked by a focus on investments, with a keen interest in expanding the family's diversified portfolio. Wilhelmsen's involvement underscores the Wilhelmsen family's enduring influence in the global maritime and investment landscape.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Family Heritage

Peter Preben Wilhelmsen, born into the prominent Wilhelmsen shipping family, inherited a legacy deeply rooted in the maritime industry. His father, Arne Wilhelmsen, was instrumental in the establishment and growth of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and Peter, along with his siblings, now co-owns the family business. This inheritance solidified his position within a family that has been a key player in the cruise ship sector and a major shareholder in Royal Caribbean.

Rise to Success and Career

Wilhelmsen's career has been characterized by his role in Awas Holding, a family-owned investment group that focuses on various assets, including cruise lines, real estate, and financial holdings. His responsibilities include managing and expanding the family's investment portfolio, reflecting a strategic approach to maintaining and growing the family's wealth. This role highlights his influence in the financial decisions within the Wilhelmsen family.

Key Business Strategies

The Wilhelmsen family has diversified their investments to mitigate risks and explore new opportunities. Through Awas Holding, Peter Preben Wilhelmsen is involved in expanding their presence in industries beyond cruise ships, including real estate and financial assets. This diversification strategy indicates a focus on long-term value creation and adaptability in a changing global market. Furthermore, the Wilhelmsen family has been involved in the shipping industry for over 160 years through Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA.

Philanthropy

Information regarding Peter Preben Wilhelmsen's direct philanthropic initiatives is not readily available in the search results. However, it is common for high-net-worth individuals to support philanthropic causes, often through private foundations or charitable donations. Further research may be needed to uncover specifics about his charitable activities.

Career Milestones

2020

Inherited Family Business

Co-owns the family business through Awas Holding after his father's death.