We are all excited for the beginning stages of our refurbishment this fall, but Kris Thompson has a unique perspective. As Director of Marine Hotel Operations and Project Manager of the Refurbishment Project, Kris is deep in design plans and fabric samples. 45 days out from the refurbishment, she shares her anticipation with us:
“There are 45 days between today and the start of Phase I of our Windstar Refurbishment Project; the complete renovation of the Wind Surf’s staterooms, suites and corridors during the annual dry dock in Portugal. And in 45 days, we will make ten times that number of decisions.
As Project Manager for this aspect of our ‘Full Sail Ahead’ initiative, my days are pleasantly consumed with the details of this renovation. From confirming fabric and furniture selections and orders with our designers and contractors, to choosing artwork and accessories, we are mapping out the plan-of-action for completely renovating 123 staterooms and 33 suites in 14 days. Our conference calls with the designers and builders based in the U.K. cover everything from electrical issues and fire detection systems to logistical arrangements for tools and materials. Between these partners in Southampton and our west coast Seattle office, we are virtually planning “around the clock”.
In 45 days, we will fly to Lisbon; embark the Wind Surf as she makes her last port call of the season, then sail to Setubal, 40 kilometers south of the Capitol. And 14 days later, after nearly 100 tradesmen have completed the job, gathered their tools and disembarked the yacht, the SURF will leave Setubal and begin her journey across the Atlantic Ocean, her new interiors wrapped like Christmas presents in protective plastic sheeting for the journey. And there isn’t a day that goes by I don’t imagine the thrill and satisfaction of removing that plastic sheeting and unveiling the New Wind Surf for the guests that will embark December 10.
Until then, I hope you will enjoy following the journey of this project. Windstar truly is, ‘Full Sail Ahead.’’
-Kris Thompson Page
Director, Marine Hotel Operations
Seattle, Washington
Continue reading along on the Windstar Cruises blog for updates on our refurbishments!
