Interview: Belinda Bennett, the first black female cruise ship captain

The Windstar Cruises captain explains how things have changed since she took up her role in 2016

Born in one of the most remote islands in the world, St Helena in the Atlantic, it was almost inevitable that Belinda Bennett would be drawn to a life at sea. Starting her career at the age of 17 as a deck cadet on the cargo ship RMS St Helena, she climbed the ranks. Following brief stints with private charter yacht SS Delphine and Isle of Man Steam Packet ferries, she joined Windstar Cruises as second officer in 2005.

Connecting Travel: What was it like training in a male-dominated industry? 
Belinda Bennett: When I was training as a cadet, the chief officers made me work harder than the guys. They would knock off for the day, and I would be left outside continuing to work until it got dark. It was make or break – and I refused to be broken. 

CT: How did it feel to be the first black woman to be a captain? 
BB: I felt a great sense of personal achievement. It was tough but I’m proud I was able to earn the rank and inspire others, and perhaps make it easier for them in the process. There is more awareness now, more support and helplines for bullying and racial harassment. It's still a male-dominated world at sea, but if you're ambitious and not afraid of hard work, it’s very rewarding. 

You get to see the world and be paid for it

CT: What do you enjoy about sailing smaller vessels? 
BB: I love the size and intimate atmosphere of Windstar’s ships – you get to meet and greet everyone, guests and crew alike. I like getting to know guests better each time they sail. And there are fabulous places smaller ships call at that you wouldn’t see on a larger vessel.

 Wind Spirit in Tahiti

CT: Do you have any favourite regions? 
BB: I love French Polynesia; the islands are so beautiful. There's a maximum size of ship allowed, so the culture remains authentic as tourists don’t outnumber locals. I also love the Greek isles, each has a story to tell or history to reveal. 

We also stop in Kusadasi in Turkey, where a private dinner in Ephesus is a highlight of the cruise

CT: Your ship, Wind Spirit, is among the three Wind Class ships being refurbished over the next three years. What can we expect? 
BB: We’re really excited about the improvements. Look out for a full redesign of public spaces with new layouts, furniture and lighting, and lots of custom art. The Owner’s Suites are also being redesigned and all the staterooms will get new decor and interactive televisions. I’m very happy about the new pool, Jacuzzis and expanded bar areas, too. Our guests are going to love it.

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