Port Operations Manager

Overview

Awarded World’s Best Small Ship Cruise line, Windstar Cruises is known for intimate yacht style experience and unique voyages to the world’s best small ports and hidden harbors. Its three sailing yachts and four all-suite yachts carry just 148 to 342 guests and cruise around the world. Our mission is to imagine and deliver personalized and immersive experiences 180 degrees from ordinary. We enrich people’s perspective through inspired travel.

Our Mission: We imagine and deliver personalized and immersive experiences 180 degrees from ordinary

Our Vision: Enriching people’s perspective through inspired travel

Our Values: Welcoming, Innovative, Now, Discipline, Serve, Teamwork, Authentic, Responsible

We are currently seeking a Manager of Port Operations to serve as the primary point of contact for all port‑related operational and commercial matters across our fleet. Working in close partnership with the Director of Port Operations, this role supports itinerary development, port bookings, and the creation/management of port operating budgets. The team members is responsible for overseeing port agency services, supporting the port agency bid process, managing financial forecasting and invoice processing, and ensuring accurate cost tracking. The Manager of Port Operations also plays a key role in driving operational efficiency, maintaining strong supplier relationships, and continuously improving port‑related workflows to support safe, efficient, and cost‑effective operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage port agency services and maintain effective working relationships with port agents, vendors, port authorities, and service providers.
• Ensure port service providers are regularly reviewed and selected based on service quality, operational performance, and budgetary requirements.
• Monitor and enhance port operational efficiency to ensure suppliers meet the needs of vessel operations and itinerary demands.
• Assist with berth reservation management and proactively resolve berthing conflicts in coordination with itinerary planning teams.
• Oversee and continuously improve all financial processes related to port operations, including budget development, forecasting, and invoice review.
• Ensure accurate recording and reconciliation of port fees and related charges in the designated system of record (MXP).
• Track industry trends and best practices, identifying opportunities for process improvement and cost efficiencies.
• Develop and communicate detailed operational plans and requirements to internal stakeholders, vendors, port authorities, and relevant government agencies.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in maritime or port operations.
• Strong financial and analytical skills with experience in budget management and cost control.
• Excellent research and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Broad global geographical knowledge with an understanding of international port environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• High level of attention to detail with demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in computer‑based systems including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and MXP.
• Ability and willingness to travel as required to support operational needs.
  
  

EEO:

Windstar is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.