Star Clippers Appoints Leo Chang as Chief Executive Officer to Lead Next Chapter of Tall Ship Sailing Specialist
Veteran Adventure Travel Executive to Drive Global Growth and Modernize Guest Experiences While Preserving the Heritage of Authentic Sailing Fleet.
Star Clippers, the world’s premier tall ship sailing specialist, announced the appointment of Leo Chang as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Chang brings over three decades of distinguished management leadership along with deep expertise in driving strategic growth and operational excellence to the role. He will oversee operations, growth initiatives, the expansion of Star Clippers’ global market presence and brand development for Star Clippers’ unique fleet.
The appointment marks a strategic transition for Star Clippers, which was established in 1989 by Mikael Krafft, a passionate yachtsman. Under the foundational vision, Star Clippers grew to operate three of the largest sailing ships in service today: Star Flyer and Star Clipper, both four-mast barquentines, and the five-mast full rigged flagship Royal Clipper. The brand remains deeply committed to providing guests with the romance of traditional sailing coupled with the modern amenities of a mega-yacht.
“Leo has incredible passion for our unique and authentic style of travel,” said Eric Krafft, owner and current CEO of Star Clippers.
“His deep understanding of small ship cruising operations and its expanding market opportunity, combined with his forward-thinking leadership style make him the ideal leader to continue the Star Clippers legacy. Our travel advisor partners and loyal guests can look forward to a continued commitment to product excellence, impeccable service and operational innovation.”
Mr. Krafft will remain closely involved as an engaged owner and Executive Chairman.
Mr. Chang joins Star Clippers at a pivotal moment as the industry experiences unprecedented demand for boutique, sustainable and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Prior to joining Star Clippers, Mr. Chang served as Chief Business Development Officer at Lindblad Expeditions, where he led corporate development and strategic planning, successfully driving key fleet growth initiatives and expanding its land-based adventure travel portfolio. His prior experience includes serving as Chief Financial Officer at Frontida BioPharm, Inc. and holding senior positions at Jefferies.
“Star Clippers is one of the most unique and differentiated travel companies in the world, offering an authentic tall ship experience that connects travelers deeply with the heritage of the sea,” said Mr. Chang.
“I am incredibly honored to lead this iconic and beloved company. As we look to the future, our mission will be to elevate our guest experience, broaden our global reach and continue innovating intimate, sustainable voyages that larger vessels simply cannot replicate, all while remaining completely steadfast to the timeless spirit of wind-driven sailing.”
About Star Clippers
Star Clippers operates three of the world’s largest and tallest sailing vessels. Combining the historic grandeur, romance, and tradition of 19th-century clipper ships with the amenities of a modern yacht, Star Clippers provides an intimate, alternative cruise experience for up to 227 guests.
The fleet consists of the four-masted twins Star Clipper and Star Flyer, and the flagship Royal Clipper, a five-masted, full-rigged vessel and feature expansive teak decks, open-air dining, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere. Star Clippers sails itineraries throughout the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and Central America and ocean crossings, accessing secluded ports and pristine bays inaccessible to traditional cruise ships.
(Star Clippers Appoints Leo Chang as Chief Executive Officer to Lead Next Chapter of Tall Ship Sailing Specialist)
