FOUNDER & CHIEF TRAVEL DESIGNER
I’m James, Founder and Managing Director of Curated Escapes Ltd — a luxury travel business defined by the belief that truly exceptional journeys are shaped by insight, intention, and intelligent design.
With over 35 years in the global travel and cruise industry, my career has been built at the intersection of creativity and commerciality. I have led, scaled, and advised travel businesses across cruise, luxury travel, and specialist touring — always with a focus on building enduring brands, distinctive product, and meaningful growth.
Since founding Curated Escapes in 2011, I have guided the business from concept to a respected specialist in its field. My work spans product curation, commercial strategy, and brand development, underpinned by a clear philosophy: that travel should deliver both emotional resonance for the traveller and long-term value for the business behind it. Each journey is designed with precision, combining high-touch personalisation with disciplined commercial thinking.
Alongside Curated Escapes, I have operated at senior level with leading global cruise brands, including Seabourn Cruise Line and Holland America Line, shaping market expansion and deepening strategic relationships within the UK cruise sector. My consultancy work has supported travel businesses through redefinition and growth — from rebranding and repositioning to diversification into rail, river, luxury, and touring — ensuring brands evolve with clarity and purpose.
My perspective is grounded in deep operational experience. I began in luxury hotel management before moving to sea, where I held senior onboard leadership roles with Disney Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, V.Ships, and Orient Lines. I was part of the launch of Disney Cruise Line and its inaugural ship, Disney Magic — an experience that continues to inform my uncompromising focus on service, detail, and delivery.
I hold a degree in International Business from Georgia State University and am a CLIA Master Agent, with a Carrier Luxury Specialist endorsement.
Everything I do is guided by a singular principle: to build journeys — and businesses — with intent, integrity, and enduring vision.
