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Our Story

How it all started

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It all began in early 2024 with Yaya, a passionate traveler and former cruise ship crew member, who saw a need for personalized cruise consultation for both English-speaking and Chinese-speaking travelers. Drawing from her extensive experience—having traveled to 71 countries and visited Antarctica six times—she founded Cruise Elf with the goal of making dream cruises a reality.

How We Get Here

Since then, Cruise Elf has grown into a close-knit team of five talented women, including one amazing female dog, Luna, who provides endless joy and support. Together, we've sent over 1,400 passengers on unforgettable journeys, and the best part? Zero complaints! Our dedication to exceptional service and personalized attention has earned us a loyal following of satisfied clients.

Team & Brand Expansion: CruiseElf Expeditions

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Cruise Elf is excited to introduce CruiseElf Expeditions, expanding our brand to offer even more specialized adventure cruises. With a growing team of five passionate women and one amazing dog, Luna, we’ve helped over 1,400 passengers with zero complaints. Now, by partnering with more expedition cruise lines, we’re able to offer expert advice on unique, off-the-beaten-path journeys, bringing personalized, unforgettable experiences to every client.

Our Certificates

From Viking Cruises

From Viking Cruises

As an Expedtions Certified Expert

From Holland America Line

From Holland America Line

From Disney Cruise Line

From Disney Cruise Line

From Viking Cruises

From Viking Cruises

From Princess Cruises

From Princess Cruises

From Silversea Cruises

From Silversea Cruises

From the state of Alaska

From the state of Alaska

As an Alaska Expert

From National Geographic-Lindblad

From National Geographic-Lindblad

As an Expedtions Certified Expert

From Norwegian Cruise Line

From Norwegian Cruise Line

Beyond Travel:
Cruise Elf’s Commitment to Giving Back

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2024

Supporting Animal Welfare in St. Croix

In our founding year, Cruise Elf made its first charitable contribution by donating $1,000 to the Virgin Islands Animal Rescue Center in St. Croix. This nonprofit organization plays a vital role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. As a travel company connected to the Caribbean, we felt a deep responsibility to support the well-being of the communities and creatures that make these destinations so special.

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2025

Earthquake Relief Through the United Nations

In response to the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, Cruise Elf donated $500 to the United Nations to support emergency relief efforts. We believe in standing with global communities during times of crisis, and this contribution reflects our commitment to offering help where it's most urgently needed.

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2025

Giving Back to Our Texas Community

As a proud Texas-based business, we are deeply committed to supporting our local community. In 2025, Cruise Elf donated $1,000 to sponsor the annual Clay Shoot fundraiser benefiting River Legacy Park & Nature Center in Arlington. This beloved local nonprofit provides environmental education and preserves green spaces for future generations to enjoy.

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Meet our Team!

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Yaya
​Founder

  • Based in Texas, USA

  • Founder of Cruise Elf

  • 6 years in the cruise industry, ex–shore excursions deputy manager

  • PADI Rescue Diver, nature and diving enthusiast

  • Visited 71 countries and all seven continents

  • Been to Antarctica six times, expert in polar travel

  • Turns travel experience into dream trips for clients

Maya
General Sales Manager

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  • Based in Zhengzhou, China

  • Sales Manager at Cruise Elf with strong sales and team leadership experience

  • Former cruise ship art department manager with onboard experience

  • Avid backpacker, traveled across Asia, the Americas, and Europe

  • Expert in cruise products and customizing itineraries

  • Professional, friendly, and passionate about travel

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Ning
Sales Manager (APEX)

  • From Changzhou, based in Shanghai

  • English major, TEM-8 certified, with a finance background

  • Asia-Pacific Sales Manager at Cruise Elf

  • Open-minded Sagittarius & ENFP, loves exploring cultures

  • Creative and passionate about making travel dreams come true

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Mia
​Cruise Consultant & Legal Support

  • Based in Delaware, serving the eastern U.S.

  • Cruise consultant and legal advisor at Cruise Elf since 2024

  • Background in criminal justice with professional legal expertise

  • Passionate about cruising, with hands-on inspection experience

  • Enjoys travel, CrossFit, hiking, food—especially hot pot

  • Offers personalized cruise planning and expert advice

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Nana
Creative Director

  • Based in Chongqing, China

  • Marketing Supervisor at Cruise Elf, handling visual and content promotion

  • Passionate about travel and photography, capturing journey highlights

  • Skilled in design software with strong visual and content planning skills

  • Dedicated to showcasing the charm of cruising through creative expression

  • Brings professionalism, personality, and warmth to brand communication

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Luna
Team Dog

  • Luna, our team dog, rescued by Yaya in Oklahoma

  • A Great Pyrenees & Anatolian Shepherd mix

  • The team's favorite—brings joy, comfort, and lots of laughs

  • Stars in entertaining videos and offers emotional support

  • Loves to explore, just like the rest of the Cruise Elf crew

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