With an impressive background in travel planning and a deep passion and understanding for creating unforgettable guest experiences, Peterson will oversee the development of global itineraries that reflect Windstar's philosophy of “180 Degrees From Ordinary.” Peterson will collaborate closely with the Windstar team on detailed revenue analytics while developing itineraries that offer guests unique opportunities for cultural engagement, culinary exploration, and extraordinary adventures. Peterson will also work with the team to further expand Windstar's portfolio of pre- and post-cruise packages.
Jess Peterson was previously with Windstar from 2016 - 2019 as its director of revenue and itinerary planning and led the company’s expansion into four new operating regions: Japan, Alaska, Canada/New England, and Australia/New Zealand. Most recently, he has been an itinerary planning consultant. Peterson also spent four years at Hurtigruten Expeditions, where he worked in a range of itinerary and product planning roles, culminating in his position as vice president of customer experience and new product development.
“It's great to be back at Windstar, and I'm excited to help develop new and unique experiences for our guests with Windstar’s talented team," shared Peterson. "The addition of two new ships is very energizing. I just returned from a three-week research trip to Asia where we’re developing some amazing itineraries for our guests. We’ll include popular ports and cities, but also surprising, lesser-known destinations. One of my personal favorites from the trip was Hanoi, Vietnam -- which has a beautiful historic quarter with great energy, people, and food. We’re planning pre/post packages in places like Hanoi so our guests can truly experience the culture and local life.”
Earlier this year,
announced the expansion of its fleet with two new all-suite Star Class ships. Star Seeker (December 2025) will be Windstar's first-ever Star Class new build, followed by Star Explorer (December 2026). Star Seeker's Alaska and Japan itineraries for 2026 are currently available to book. Japan is proving especially popular and the line says 2027 Japan cruise dates will be open to book on December 10, 2024. Windstar Cruises plans to open the rest of the Asia deployment for Star Seeker in February 2025.
“Jess’ hire will enable Windstar to increase its focus on the development of new itineraries and pre/post cruise experiences for our guests,” shared Windstar Cruises Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava. “Windstar is known for its small-ship itineraries that immerse guests in the destination, and we are investing even more now in our product team's ability to travel, research, and form local relationships so we can offer more of those intimate small-ship experiences we know our guests appreciate.”
To learn more about small ship cruising with Windstar Cruises, contact a travel advisor, reach out to Windstar Cruises by phone at 866-851-4042, or request a call by a Windstar vacation planner. Cruises can now also be booked online with Windstar. Find more information on Windstar Cruises here.
Tags: Janet Bava, Windstar Cruises, Jess Peterson
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