Windstar Cruises appoints head of new expeditions programme

Long-time captain James Griffiths will oversee crew management, safety, training and more
Windstar Cruises appoints head of new expeditions programme
Captain James Griffiths has been working for Windstar Cruises since 2014 (Image: Windstar Cruises)

By Rebecca Gibson |


Windstar Cruises has appointed long-time captain James Griffiths to oversee the development and implementation of its new Signature Expeditions programme.

Born in Wales, UK, Griffiths joined Windstar in 2014 as captain of Wind Spirit and became captain of Star Legend during her 2015 inaugural season – the same ship that will debut the Signature Expeditions programme in Alaska in May 2018. Griffiths previously served as captain of National Geographic Explorer, senior master on National Geographic Orion during her maiden Antarctic Peninsular Season and chief officer on Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2.

In his new role as expedition captain, Griffiths will oversee all aspects of Windstar’s Signature Expeditions programme, which will be offered on 11- to 14-day sailings between Seward, Alaska and Vancouver, British Columbia. Griffiths will draw on his extensive experience in ship command and handling, managing crew, introducing new cruise vessels, safety, training and navigation in all conditions (including ice), inspections and compliance, expedition ship operations and polar wildlife. He has already assembled an expedition team of naturalists who will guide guests on their Alaskan journey.

“We are fortunate to have Captain Griffiths among our ranks and are thrilled to place him in this role leading the creation and development of our brand new Signature Expeditions programme,” said Windstar president John Delaney. “Captain Griffiths’ experience with vessels of prestige and breadth of knowledge of the expedition, nautical and maritime industries is most impressive. Many of our guests have sailed with Captain Griffiths and know him as a delightful, accomplished, and down-to-earth leader, interested in sharing his life experiences with others. We are delighted to have him on our management team.”

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