Windstar Cruises introduces Jess Peterson as its new director of destination experience

Windstar Cruises announced the hiring of Jess Peterson as its new director of destination experience  and itinerary planning. 

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. 

He will also work with the team to further expand Windstar’s portfolio of pre- and post-cruise packages.

According to Windstar Cruises’ chief commercial officer Janet Bava: “Peterson will enable Windstar to increase its focus on the development of new itineraries and pre/post cruise experiences for our guests.”

Back in the saddle

Prior to this latest appointment, Peterson was previously with Windstar from 2016 to 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 worked as 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.

He said of this new role with the company: “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. 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.”