Early Life
Bent Christian Wilhelmsen is part of the Wilhelmsen family, a prominent name in the maritime industry. His father, Arne Wilhelmsen, co-founded Royal Caribbean Cruises. The family has a long history in shipping, with roots dating back to the 19th century.
Rise to Success
Bent Wilhelmsen inherited his stake in the family business after the death of his father, Arne Wilhelmsen, in 2020. He co-owns the family business through Awas Holding. This company also owns Linstow, a real estate company developing major projects in Norway and the Baltic countries. The family’s primary source of wealth is their significant ownership in Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. The Wilhelmsen family has been involved in the cruise industry since 1968, when Awilhelmsen was part of establishing Royal Caribbean Group (RCG), which has become one of the world's largest cruise operators. The family's diverse holdings also include investments in real estate, offshore, and other financial assets.
Key Business Strategies
The Wilhelmsen family focuses on long-term value creation through its diversified holdings. The family's investment company, Awas Holding, employs an opportunistic yet diversified approach to its business. Key strategies include investments in shares and securities, real estate development, and strategic involvement in the cruise industry. They are also focused on further diversification of the family fortune into finance, hospitality, and industrial holdings.
Philanthropy
While specific details on Bent Wilhelmsen's personal philanthropic activities are not readily available, it is known that The Tom Wilhelmsen Foundation, established by his family, donates 20% of the Wilhelmsen group's value each year to support various causes.