By John Waggoner, Founder & Chairman, Victory Cruise Lines

When we talk about what makes Victory Cruise Lines special, it’s easy to point to our ships, our itineraries, or the unforgettable destinations we visit. But the truth is much simpler:

Our success begins and ends with our people.

That’s why I couldn’t be prouder to see our CFO, Erica Kinsella, recognized by Travel Weekly as one of the industry’s “Millennials at the Helm.” The feature highlights rising leaders shaping the future of cruising, and it is a well-deserved acknowledgment of the impact she makes every day.

Read the full article HERE

While titles like “Chief Financial Officer” may suggest numbers and spreadsheets, anyone who has worked with Erica knows her impact goes far beyond finance.

She understands that in the cruise industry, people are our greatest asset — both on shore and onboard.

The Power of Shoreside Leadership
Behind every seamless sailing experience is a dedicated team working tirelessly behind the scenes. From finance and operations to marketing and guest services, our shoreside professionals build the foundation that allows our ships to operate smoothly and our crews to thrive.

Erica has played a critical role in strengthening that foundation. Her leadership ensures we operate responsibly, strategically, and sustainably. But more importantly, she brings a people-first mindset to every decision.

Budgets matter. Performance matters. Growth matters.
For Erica and for us, people matter most.

She has helped cultivate a culture where our shoreside team feels valued, heard, and empowered. That culture translates directly into better collaboration, stronger support for our ships, and ultimately a better experience for our guests.

Supporting the Heartbeat of Our Ships
Of course, our onboard crew are the heartbeat of Victory Cruise Lines. They are the ones welcoming guests, delivering exceptional service, and creating the moments our travelers remember for a lifetime.

But great onboard service doesn’t happen in isolation.

It requires:

• Thoughtful planning
• Strong financial stewardship
• Clear communication
• Investment in training and resources

Erica understands that every financial decision we make should support the experience onboard. Whether it’s investing in crew resources, enhancing guest amenities, or strengthening operational resilience, her work directly impacts life at sea.

When shoreside and shipboard teams are aligned, supported, and valued, excellence follows.

Being named among the industry’s “Millennials at the Helm” is a meaningful recognition of Erica’s leadership and the culture we are building together.

Erica, thank you for your dedication, your vision, and your unwavering belief in our team.

At Victory, it is our people working together who make the difference.