Windstar Cruises Announces Fleet Operations Leadership Updates

Alan Wilson joins as VP of marine operations, Giovanni Canu promoted to VP of technical operations

 

MIAMI, FL — July 9th — Windstar Cruises, the leader in upscale, yacht-style voyages for fewer than 350 guests, today announced key updates to its Fleet Operations leadership, underscoring a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and nurturing exceptional talent. These changes strengthen the team guiding Windstar’s signature 180 Degrees from Ordinary® experience, both on deck and behind the scenes. 

 

After more than four decades in the maritime industry, Paul Barrett, vice president of marine & technical operations, departed Windstar to retire July 1st, 2025. Since 2017, Barrett’s thoughtful stewardship has driven Windstar’s operational performance, safety standards, and environmental progress—shaping a legacy of excellence that continues to inspire the next generation of fleet leadership. 

 

To build on this momentum, Windstar has created two specialized roles: vice president of marine operations and vice president of technical operations, elevating expertise while supporting the brand’s growing, global footprint. 

 

Captain Alan Wilson steps aboard as Windstar’s new vice president of marine operations, bringing over 25 years of executive maritime leadership. Most recently vice president of marine operations for Holland America Group, Captain Wilson is renowned for his strategic mindset and calm, decisive leadership—qualities honed through guiding global fleets, optimizing safety and navigation, and managing personnel during both routine and extraordinary circumstances. Wilson’s experience includes leading large-scale crew repatriation during the COVID-19 pandemic and driving innovation in bridge design for next-generation yachts. He will be based at Windstar’s Miami headquarters. 

 

Giovanni (Gio) Canu has been promoted to vice president of technical operations. With more than 35 years of maritime experience—including senior roles at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Carnival Cruise Line—Canu is recognized for advancing fleet decarbonization and sustainable operations. His expertise spans engineering, dry dock execution, alternative fuels, and energy efficiency—championing modernization at every turn. 

 

“Paul will be greatly missed, but we’re proud to foster a team with such depth and passion for the Windstar way,” said Windstar’s Chief Operations Officer Stijn Creupelandt.  “Alan and Gio’s leadership reflect our values of innovation, safety, and personalized service—qualities that ensure our guests always feel at home, wherever our yachts may roam. As we look ahead to the debut of Star Seeker and a growing collection of immersive itineraries, their expertise will keep Windstar at the forefront of small-ship cruising.” 

 

These updates come as Windstar prepares to launch two new ships – Star Seeker in 2025 and Star Explorer in 2026 – and expand its curated global sailings. With a nimble, seasoned feet operations team at the helm, Windstar continues to deliver its signature blend of fun-loving moments, “home at sea” comfort, and access to extraordinary destinations—proving there’s nothing ordinary about a Windstar voyage. 

 

For more information about Windstar Cruises, visit www.windstarcruises.com. 

 

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 three Star Class all-suite yachts and three Wind Class sailing yachts, offering voyages that are both intimate and inspiring. Two highly anticipated new yachts, Star Seeker and Star Explorer, set to debut in December 2025 and 2026, expand 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.