Cindy D’Aoust is president of American Queen Voyages, which joins Hornblower’s new overnight division, headed by Chris Tallent, CEO of Journey Beyond
Former Cruise Lines International Association CEO Cindy D’Aoust was appointed president of American Queen Voyages.
She succeeds David Giersdorf, who’s held the role on an acting basis since May. He will continue to act as an advisor to the company.
CLIA, Cape Resorts Management, MPI
D’Aoustwas president and CEO of CLIA until December 2018. Most recently she was president Hospitality for Cape Resorts Management Co. Earlier she was president of Meeting Planners International.
Kevin Rabbitt, CEO of AQV’s parent, Hornblower Group, cited D’Aoust’s ‘exceptional background in successfully leading travel associations and hospitality brands through periods of growth.’
D’Aoust, who will be relocating to the company’s Fort Lauderdale office, will be responsible for developing and implementing AQV’s overall business strategy, providing guidance to the leadership team to create growth, driving innovation, performance and guest satisfaction.
‘American Queen Voyages continues to carry forth the brand’s heritage and tradition by celebrating what always remains at its core — a commitment to excellence and a dedication to creating amazing experiences for our guests,’ D’Aoust said.
AQV joins Hornblower’s new overnight division
Hornblower Group, backed by private equity firm Crestview Partners, has created a new overnight division, which AQV will join.
This division will be headed by Chris Tallent, CEO of Journey Beyond, Australia’s experiential travel company. D’Aoust will report to Tallent.
According to Hornblower, this division will further benefit AQV by grouping it with the overnight rail and lodging brands of Journey Beyond and aligning them with AQV to strengthen its global go-to-market strategy.
