Dan Chappelle Joins Windstar Cruises as Vice President of Sales

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Oct 11, 2011, 05:20 ET

SEATTLE, Oct. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Windstar Cruises, which operates a fleet of three luxury sailing yachts that explore hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most treasured destinations, has appointed travel industry veteran Dan Chappelle as Vice President of Sales, effective October 12.

Chappelle will report to Hans Birkholz, President and CEO of Windstar Cruises, and will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company's outside sales efforts including expanding Windstar's presence in the travel agent community.

"Dan brings a wealth of industry experience and strong relationships within the travel agent community to Windstar," said Birkholz. "We look forward to Dan's contributions as he leads our sales efforts and continues the growth of the Windstar brand."

With more than 20 years of travel industry experience, Chappelle joins Windstar from Expedia CruiseShipCenters where he served most recently as Vice President of U.S. Sales and Operations. Chappelle played a key role in helping the organization grow to 3,500 consultants in North America, with more than 800 home-based agents in the U.S. Prior to his time at Expedia CruiseShipCenters, Chappelle held the position of Director of Sales and Vendor Strategy for Cruise Holidays, which was then part of Carlson Leisure Group and now Travel Leaders, with responsibility for franchise and supplier relations along with agent sales and training programs. Before Cruise Holidays, Chappelle co-founded The Cruise Shoppe of Austin developing it into one of the larger cruise agencies in the United States at that time.

Chappelle attended the University of Georgia, holds a Master Cruise Counsellor Certification from Cruise Lines International Association, and is a frequent speaker on sales training and business development at industry events.

About Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most treasured destinations. Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious yachts of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. For more information including rates and itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at WindstarCruises.com. Windstar Cruises can also be followed on Windstar's Facebook and Twitter fan pages.

SOURCE Windstar Cruises