With an expanding fleet and more cruise regions worldwide, Windstar has announced the hire of Jess Peterson as its director of destination experience and itinerary planning in a recent press release.

Peterson was with Windstar from 2016 to 2019 as its director of revenue and itinerary planning, where he led the company’s expansion into four new operating regions: Japan, Alaska, Canada/New England, and Australia/New Zealand.

“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,” said Peterson.

“Jess’s hire will enable Windstar to increase its focus on developing new itineraries and pre/post cruise experiences for our guests,” added Janet Bava, chief commercial officer.

Petrson will oversee the development of global itineraries that reflect Windstar’s philosophy of “180 Degrees From Ordinary.” He will work with the team and revenue analytics while developing itineraries to offer opportunities for cultural engagement, culinary exploration, and adventures.

Peterson has a background in travel planning and creating guest experiences.  Most recently, he has been an itinerary planning consultant.

Peterson also spent four years at Hurtigruten Expeditions, working in various itinerary and product planning roles. This culminated in his position as vice president of customer experience and new product development.

Earlier this year, Windstar announced its fleet expansion with two new all-suite Star Class ships. The Star Seeker (December 2025) will be Windstar’s first Star Class newbuild, followed by the Star Explorer (December 2026). The Star Seeker’s Alaska and Japan itineraries for 2026 are currently available to book.

Japan is proving popular, and 2027 Japan dates will be open to book on Dec. 10, 2024, the company said in a statement.

Windstar plans to open the rest of the Asia deployment for the Star Seeker in February 2025.

Bava added: “Windstar is known for its small-ship itineraries that immerse guests in the destination; we are investing 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.”

“The addition of two new ships is very energizing. (In) Asia, we’re developing some amazing itineraries for our guests. We’ll include popular ports and cities but also surprising, lesser-known destinations,” said Peterson.

“We’re planning pre/post packages in places like Hanoi, Vietnam, so our guests can experience the culture and local life.”