Windstar Cruises Welcomes New Vice President of Hotel Operations, Paul Chapple
MIAMI, FL, February 9, 2026 – Windstar Cruises is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Chapple as the company’s new vice president of hotel operations. Paul joins Windstar at a pivotal moment of accelerated growth and brand evolution, with two new ships, Star Seeker and Star Explorer, expanding the fleet and setting the stage for an elevated guest experience. In this strategic role, Paul will guide the continued transformation of Windstar’s hotel operations to support the cruise line’s next era of innovation and luxury. He will report directly to Stijn Creupelandt, who advanced to the role of chief operating officer.
With more than 20 years of cruise industry experience, Paul brings a proven track record in shaping high-impact guest experiences, driving revenue growth, and leading diverse, high-performing teams. Most recently, he served as associate vice president, onboard commercial strategy at Azamara Cruises, overseeing global initiatives across shore excursions, multi-day land programs, hotel stays, and signature events. His background also includes leadership roles in onboard revenue and hotel operations.
“As our fleet grows, Windstar is entering a transformative phase,” said Stijn Creupelandt, chief operating officer. “Paul will be essential in advancing our hotel operations to match the expectations of today’s discerning traveler while preserving the boutique experience at the heart of our brand. We’re excited to welcome him on board and look forward to the energy and expertise he brings.”
Paul will oversee all aspects of hotel operations and product development, including food and beverage, onboard services, entertainment, guest relations, and destination services. His leadership will be instrumental in supporting Windstar’s expanding fleet of all-suite yachts and sailing ships while upholding the company’s reputation for personalized, industry-leading service.
Windstar Cruises operates a fleet of all-suite yachts and sailing ships, offering immersive itineraries, a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, and service that’s as warm and welcoming as it is personalized. The boutique cruise line is expanding with two new ships joining the fleet. Star Seeker launched in December 2025, sailing in the Caribbean, Alaska, Japan and SE Asia. Star Explorer launches in December 2026 to sail year-round in the Mediterranean.
Brand images available here. Headshot of Paul Chapple available here.
Contacts:
Sarah Scoltock, Director of Public Relations, Windstar Cruises
sara.scoltock@windstarcruises.com
Claire Skinner, Vice President, LDPR,
About Windstar Cruises:
For four decades, Windstar Cruises has been reimagining small-ship cruising with a distinctive blend of relaxed luxury and genuine connection to the world’s most captivating destinations. From its origins with motor sailing yachts tailored for upscale yet casual travel, Windstar has grown into a diverse fleet of four Star Class all-suite yachts—including its newest addition of Star Seeker in December 2025—and three Wind Class sailing yachts, offering voyages that are both intimate and inspiring. Its highly anticipated yacht, Star Explorer, is set to debut in December 2026, expanding the fleet to eight yachts accommodating 150-350 guests. Windstar’s legendary Wind Class sailing yachts are also undergoing a meticulous two-phase redesign to be completed by 2027. Windstar yachts sail to more than 330 ports across Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Panama Canal, Alaska, Canada and New England, Japan, the South Pacific, and Asia. Unlike most cruise lines, Windstar sails year-round in the Mediterranean and Tahiti, offering different destination experiences seasonally. Each Windstar voyage is designed to immerse guests in authentic cultural experiences, all while delivering the comfort, service, and style that define the Windstar difference.
Windstar Cruises is proud to be part of the Xanterra Travel Collection®, a distinguished group of global hospitality and travel companies with a legacy spanning over a hundred years. Xanterra operates iconic national parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, and Death Valley. The Xanterra Travel Collection® is owned by The Anschutz Corporation, the ultimate owner of the Broadmoor, Sea Island, and entertainment giant AEG, Anschutz Entertainment Group.