With two new small ships set to join its fleet, Windstar Cruises is strengthening its corporate team with three key hires to support its expanding business in the luxury small-ship cruise market.

Victor Valencia Appointed Vice President of Revenue Management

Bringing a wealth of experience from Amazon, Royal Caribbean, and American Express, Victor Valencia joins Windstar as Vice President of Revenue Management. In this role, he will spearhead strategic growth initiatives, oversee revenue and pricing strategies, and leverage data science and analytics to optimize profitability.

Most recently, Valencia served as Head of Finance at Amazon, where he led strategic planning, revenue optimization, and capital investment. His extensive background in finance, risk management, and treasury across multiple industries makes him a valuable addition to Windstar’s leadership team. He will be based at the company’s global headquarters in Miami, FL.

“This is the perfect time for Victor to join Windstar Cruises as we expand our commercial
business operations, globally. His impressive background in revenue optimization, finance, and
data-driven strategy—shaped by leadership roles at innovative companies like Amazon, DSV
Logistics, and Royal Caribbean Group—aligns perfectly with our vision for profitable growth,”
said Windstar’s Chief Commercial Officer, Janet Bava. “Victor’s expertise in leveraging
technology, strategic pricing, and financial optimization will be instrumental in delivering longterm, sustainable growth for Windstar.”

William ‘Kam’ Kammerman Joins as Strategic Business Development Manager for Host Agencies

To enhance Windstar’s relationships with travel advisors, William “Kam” Kammerman has been appointed Strategic Business Development Manager for Host Agencies. Kammerman will focus on strengthening partnerships with host agencies, providing training, and driving sales growth.

Previously, he served as Strategic Account Manager for Host Agencies at MSC Cruises and has also worked with Norwegian Cruise Line in direct sales. His deep industry knowledge and experience in fostering cruise line-advisor relationships position him to play a critical role in Windstar’s expanding trade business. He is based in St. Petersburg, FL.

Michelle Pharr Named Regional Sales Manager for the South Central U.S.

With 14 years of travel industry experience, Michelle Pharr steps into the role of Regional Sales Manager for the South Central U.S., covering Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Kansas, and the Dakotas. She will be responsible for building partnerships with travel advisors, providing training, and driving sales in the region.

Pharr most recently worked as a Strategic Account Manager for Royal Caribbean and previously held a business development role at Palace Resorts. Having started her career following in her mother’s footsteps as a travel advisor specializing in destination weddings and honeymoons, she brings a strong background in sales and relationship management. She will be based in Texas.

Windstar Cruises Gears Up for Fleet Expansion

Celebrating 40 years of luxury yacht-style cruising, Windstar is entering an exciting phase of growth. The upcoming addition of the 224-guest all-suite yacht, Star Seeker, in December 2025, followed by sister ship Star Explorer in December 2026, will bring Windstar’s fleet to a total of eight ships. These new vessels will join the Star Class fleet of upscale yachts and Wind Class sailing yachts, which accommodate between 148 and 342 guests.

“Kam and Michelle both have outstanding skill sets in the travel trade sector, and with direct
experience in the cruise industry, they are positioned to quickly make a positive impact on
Windstar’s support for the trade side of our business,” said Joe Jiffo, Windstar’s director of
sales.

The highly anticipated Star Seeker will be christened in Miami on January 15, 2026, marking a new chapter for Windstar’s commitment to delivering exceptional small-ship cruising experiences.

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