Ares Michaelides to lead AQSC and Victory as presidentAres Michaelides to lead AQSC and Victory as president

He will lead the strategic growth plans for both fleets, with AQSC adding American Countess in 2020 and Victory chartering Ocean Victory on a seasonal basis starting in 2021.

‘As we continue to progress, we’re confident that Ares will tap into his long history and success in the industry to help continue the growth of the company,’ said John Waggoner, founder and CEO of AQSC.

25 years of industry experience

Michaelides has 25 years of experience in the maritime and cruise industries. Most recently he served as CEO of Ship Supply International, a leading global supplier of goods and services to the maritime industry. Prior to that, over the course of 10 years, Michaelides held executive positions (interim CEO, EVP, COO and CFO) with Starboard Cruise Services, the world’s largest cruise retailer.

Previously, Michaelides spent over a decade in executive roles with the companies including Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Celebrity Cruises Inc. and MSC Cruises USA.

‘I’ve been very fortunate that my cruise experience has allowed me to have a hand in managing all aspects of the business, from understanding the economics of the cruise sector to retail innovation and execution to managing logistics for the world’s largest cruise lines,’ Michaelides said. ‘I am honored to be a part of the American Queen Steamboat Company/Victory Cruise Lines team and look forward to leading a strategic vision that elevates the company to the next level and continues its success.’