Travel the World (TTW) has appointed experienced exec Karli Donaldson as Sales Manager for its GSA client Windstar Cruises in Australia, reaffirming its commitment to the local travel trade and regional market growth.
Donaldson brings more than 17 years’ industry experience across aviation, wholesale, retail and travel distribution, including sales, business development and product roles at Emirates, Finnair, Ignite Travel Group and Flight Centre.
She joins Windstar Cruises from her most recent role as National Key Account Manager at Infinity Holidays as previous Sales Manager Shelley Martin moves back to Uniworld Boutique River Cruises.
In her new position, Gold Coast-based Donaldson will lead trade engagement and business development for Windstar Cruises in Australia with a remit spanning agency relationships, market expansion and brand growth for the small-ship cruise line.
The appointment comes as Windstar Cruises welcomed its 224-passenger yacht, Star Seeker, in December 2025, along with the upcoming launch of Star Explorer in December 2026, introducing river-to-ocean itineraries in the Mediterranean.
Windstar recently announced it will have two ships sailing year-round in French Polynesia from 2027 – the intimate 148-guest Wind Star and 312-guest larger Star Breeze.
For Australian cruises, this signals enhanced choice, easier access to luxury small-ship cruising with big destination experiences.
Windstar Cruises Managing Director – Global Commercial Helen Beck said Donaldson’s local market knowledge and skill in building partnerships will support the brand’s continued expansion across new ships and destination experiences.
“Australia remains one of Windstar’s key source markets, and we know that the travel trade community plays a critical role in that success. Karli’s experience and trade focus make her an ideal fit to support growth in Australia,” she said.
TTW Managing Director Andrew Millmore said the appointment builds on a 30-year partnership with Windstar Cruises and reflects the group’s commitment to long-term growth in Australia.
“[The appointment] reinforces our ongoing support for the Australian trade through the right tools, training, marketing support and strategic guidance to help them grow their business,” he said.
On LinkedIn, Donaldson shared her excitement join Windstar Cruises as Sales Manager in Australia.
“It’s an incredible brand to represent, and I’m looking forward to working closely with our trade partners and growing Windstar’s presence across the region,” she said.
