For Women's History Month, TravelPulse had a chat with Windstar Cruises' Captain Belinda Bennett-master of the Wind Star. Not only is she the line's first female and black captain, she's also the first black female captain in the commercial cruise industry.
TravelPulse: It's been just over two years since you were initially appointed the master of the Wind Star. How does it feel to continue making history as Windstar's first female and black captain?
Belinda Bennett: To be honest whilst it is certainly a privilege, I have to say, "Is it two years already?" It's been a wonderful journey thus far, especially when guests are surprised that I am the Captain and not the gentleman standing next to me greeting them as they board. But I feel great and a little proud of myself along with my family who [continues] to be immensely proud of me.
TP: For young girls interested in following in your footsteps, what would you suggest for them to enter a career in cruise ship navigation?
BB: I would suggest to put your mind to anything you wish to do, whether it be in the cruise industry or elsewhere and never let anyone tell you, "You cannot make it!" Hard work, perseverance and determination will get you any achievement you desire, and working in the cruise industry allows you to see the world whilst being paid too. It's a win-win.
You will also find that life onboard ships, especially with Windstar becomes like a second family to you, and there is always someone to guide you along the way. Never be afraid to ask a question.
TP: Briefly, what does a day in the life of a sailing ship's captain look like?
BB: Normal port days entail waking in the morning, maneuvering the vessel into whichever port we are calling at on the day, then breakfast and either an inspection or meeting or general walk-around, [which] normally takes your morning between emails and your own checks and projects.
TP: What do you think is next for the cruise industry as a whole and Windstar specifically?
BB: As the world [knows], the cruise industry is growing and growing fast. Thankfully, Windstar is also growing and now visiting a lot of new ports around the world, which is wonderful for our guests who choose to travel only with us and have already done all itineraries over the years.
They now have new destinations, and also by doing so, we now have a lot of new guests, some of [whom have] never cruised before and have now become hooked. The fact that we are also doing immensely well in the Cruise Critic side of the industry proves Windstar has a lot to offer, and I totally recommend coming to sail with us.
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