In keeping with its commitment to providing exceptional culinary experiences, leading yacht-style cruise line Windstar Cruises is thrilled to announce the addition of Basil + Bamboo™, a new complimentary specialty restaurant aboard Star Seeker, Windstar’s newest yacht launching December 2025. This innovative dining venue offers a captivating blend of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, creating a memorable culinary experience for guests.   Basil + Bamboo will take the place of Cuadro 44 across the line’s fleet in 2025, first on Star Breeze in February 2025, and debut as the new dining venue aboard Star Seeker, introducing a fresh and vibrant alternative for discerning diners. With limited seating, Basil + Bamboo promises an intimate dining experience where guests can indulge in a harmonious fusion of flavours.   Guests can expect delicious offerings such as comforting miso soup, delicate tuna tartare and a refined sampler of sashimi, nigiri and maki.  Main entrees highlight bold flavours and premium ingredients such as miso black cod with pea purée, Jamon ibérico de Bellota and pickled wood ear; free-range young chicken served with Jerusalem artichokes and yuzu kosho; and crispy brussels sprouts glazed in Korean honey-soy. The dessert menu boasts artful creations such as Citrus Olive Oil Cake with lemon cream aside Greek yogurt ice cream and Chocolate Caramel Crémeux, paired with ginger-cinnamon hibiscus ice cream and sake caviar.   "As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation^®, we continue to prioritise bringing exceptional dining experiences to our guests. The introduction of Basil + Bamboo will further enhance and diversify the culinary offerings available aboard," said Windstar Cruises’ Chief Operations Officer Stijn Creupelandt. "This new dining venue perfectly complements the elevated ambiance of Star Seeker and the exciting destinations she will visit."   Basil + Bamboo joins four other enticing dining options on Star Seeker, creating a symphony of flavors to satisfy every palate:  

• Amphora: A reimagined main dining room serving a variety of upmarket and inventive dishes, including rotating items from James Beard Foundation–affiliated guest chefs.
• The Yacht Club: A casual cafe for breakfast and lunch, offering a blend of traditional and modern flavours along with specialty coffee drinks.
• Star Grill: A casual restaurant for lunch and dinner, featuring smoked, grilled and barbecued meats, seafood and vegetables.
• 24-Hour complimentary room service: Complimentary room service menu in addition to Amphora’s full dinner menu during dinner hours for guests who prefer to dine in the privacy of their suites.

  Basil + Bamboo will be open for dinner only and reservations are required.   Star Seeker is Windstar's newest yacht, featuring 112 spacious suites, nearly all with a full private veranda or a floor-to-ceiling infinity window. The yacht will be sailing to Alaska, the Caribbean and Japan in 2026.

  Windstar Cruises’ flagship vessel, Wind Surf, has unveiled its latest transformation project focused on the yacht’s common spaces and suites. The upgrades to the 342-guest sailing yacht debuts amidst Wind Surf’s prime Caribbean sailing season, with itineraries including Classic Caribbean and Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway.   Highlights of the renovation include full reimaginations of the main lobby and reception area, Yacht Club Café, Compass Rose Bar and Lounge, Amphora Restaurant and Wine Room, Pool Bar & Deck, Owner’s Suite, Star Boutique and public restrooms, along with new TVs in all guest staterooms.       “Wind Surf has always been a guest favourite, and this refurbishment honours its legacy while elevating the onboard experience to new heights,” said Stijn Creupelandt, chief operating officer of Windstar Cruises. “From refreshed design elements to modern technology upgrades, this transformation sets the stage for an unforgettable journey on our flagship sailing yacht.”   Joining Windstar’s all-suite, Star Class yachts, Wind Surf’s refurbishment also features the brand-new addition of Broadmoor and Sea Island Suites, which are inspired by luxury, five star sister resorts The Broadmoor in Colorado and  Sea Island in Georgia. The Sea Island Suite touts coastal and airy touches that evoke the property’s Addison Mizner design, including a sea-glass green colour palette, curved arches, light walls and sophisticated wood furnishings. The Broadmoor Suite boasts a more traditional space with classic furniture, floral motifs, wide crown moulding and white trim with gold finishes, along with striking custom wallpaper, which is an exact replica of the wallpaper used at The Broadmoor Main Building designed by Julie Penrose, wife of resort founder, Spencer Penrose.     During the final phase of the refurbishment, Wind Surf’s staterooms will receive new furniture, soft goods and décor. The second phase will also see updates to Stella Bistro, Veranda and the fitness studio. The full project will be completed in December 2026.   All of Windstar’s three Wind Class sailing ships (Wind Surf, Wind Star, and Wind Spirit) are undergoing redesigns and updates as part of a multi-year initiative. In addition to Wind Surf, Wind Star has already completed phase 1 of improvements with phase 2 slated for April 2026. For Wind Spirit, phase 1 takes place in April 2026 and phase 2 in March 2027.

 

- Early booking offer of complimentary upgrade to all-inclusive fares -

  Windstar Cruises has launched its 2026/2027 Caribbean and Latin America season with 13 different itineraries including the return of many of the line’s most popular voyages taking place on the 148-guest sailing yacht Wind Star and 312-guest all-suite yacht Star Pride. In addition to returning guest-favourites such as the 18-day Star Collector: Reefs & Rainforests and seven-day Costa Rica & Panama Canal, Wind Star also sails a 25-night Southern Caribbean Thanksgiving Jubilee sailing departing 10^th November 2026 from Lisbon for an ocean transit to Barbados and cruising among the islands before heading to Colombia and Panama.   Windstar is encouraging travellers to book now for the best value and staterooms and suites with an early booking offer. Book before 31^st May 2025 to receive a complimentary upgrade to All-Inclusive fares, which include Wi-Fi, gratuities, and unlimited select beer, wine, and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom.  Additionally, Windstar Cruises’ valued Yacht Club members receive an additional 5% off their bookings.   “Windstar embraces a laid-back, yachting vibe in the Caribbean. We focus on relaxing beaches and the more exclusive islands such as Jost Van Dyke, St. Barths and Virgin Gorda. We layer on our signature experiences like a beach barbeque on a remote island and swimming from the ship’s stern platform,” says Jess Peterson, Windstar’s director of destination experience and itinerary planning. “A small-ship Caribbean cruise is a totally different experience.”   Windstar’s Watersports Platform (located on the stern of the ships) is in action on nearly every itinerary in the region (weather/ports allowing) with various complimentary water toys and included gear from kayaks to paddle boards and floating mats for lounging and enjoying the scenery. The tropical cruises also feature Windstar Cruises’ signature deck and beach barbecue experiences.   All Caribbean and Latin American cruises offer an array of curated shore excursions that range from lounging at iconic beach clubs (like the Le Barthélemy Resort and Spa) to a more active selection of snorkelling adventures, deep sea fishing, jungle hikes to waterfalls and even sailing America’s Cup Race sailboats in St. Maarten. Cultural outings, such as visiting the Embera Indigenous Tribe in Panama, allow cruisers to immerse more deeply in the region with a special connection to local life. Additional guest favourites include foodie walking tours in Bequia, cruising to the Pitons in St. Lucia - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rum master classes in Martinique.   Prices start from £2,301 per person for a seven-night Windward Islands Surf & Sunsets sailing departing 3^rd January 2027 or for a seven-night San Juan & the Virgin Islands sailing departing 10^th January 2027. Both cruises are round trip San Juan on Star Pride and are inclusive of all meals and drinks, WiFi, gratuities and port fees.

  In line with the trend of kicking off the new year with a health and wellness focus, Windstar Cruises  has announced new wellness-themed cruises for 2025 – the Mind, Body & Spirit Collection. Designed for travellers interested in embracing a holistic approach to transforming their lives, these select cruises combine immersive travel experiences, mindfulness, exercise and healthy diet options.   Travellers who are embarking on a new healthy journey or wanting to continue their current path while on holiday have a new, seamless option available to book just in time for their New Year’s resolutions. Available on four diverse Windstar itineraries throughout the year that feature iconic destinations such as Panama Canal, Rome, Bermuda and Lisbon, the new wellness cruises will offer guests travel experiences and amenities that combine the beauty and adventure of stunning global destinations with enriching new programmes focused on health and well-being -- specialised additions to the small ship cruise line's existing wellness-focused programming and menus.   Featuring special guest Debbie Dixon, a life coach, author and healer who has worked in the health and wellness industry for almost three decades, Windstar's new dedicated wellness cruises will include daily offerings of meditation, breathwork and yoga; daily inspirational and transformational talks focusing on mental, physical and spiritual health; a pop-up bar featuring a complimentary menu of elixirs that are intended to improve the mind and body; heart healthy food options with vegan and vegetarian meals and morning juice cleanses (offerings currently available on all Windstar sailings); plus, the opportunity for private sessions with Debbie Dixon (additional fee applies).   Windstar's new Mind, Body and Spirit Collection cruises are available on four sailings throughout the world in 2025:  

• Star Pride: Feb 8 to 15: Panama Canal, Colombia and San Blas
• Star Legend: Feb 23 to March 2 : Europe’s Winter Riviera  
• Star Pride: Oct 19 to 26: Bermuda Bliss  
• Wind Spirit: Nov 4 to 18: Ocean Crossing  

  “Windstar Cruises recognises the growing demand for wellness travel as a re-set and escape from daily schedules and habits,” said Windstar’s Chief Operations Officer Stijn Creupelandt. “We are excited to introduce these dedicated theme cruises that allow our guests to nurture their minds and bodies while experiencing some of the world’s most beautiful destinations with like-minded travellers. These wellness cruises build upon Windstar's commitment to guest well-being and offering transformative experiences that blend travel, wellness and adventure."   Creupelandt emphasises that for travellers incorporating health and wellness into their lives, a cruise holiday can offer the benefit of connecting guests to a new and exciting destination to explore ashore while also offering shipboard retreat space to relax and reconnect with their companion. Guests have complimentary use of the ships’ fitness facility, whirlpools and sauna. A full service spa offers a wide range of treatments from massages, body treatments and acupuncture to a curated list of treatments featuring locally sourced ingredients in each region. Star Class ships additionally offer guests the complimentary use of heated loungers, a relaxation room and steam room, all located in WorldSpa by Windstar.   The new wellness cruises are part of the line’s popular Pick Your Perk savings offer available for booking now through 31^st March 31 2025 on most sailings through June 2026. Pick Your Perk options include one free hotel night (which can be used pre- or post-cruise) OR up to $1,000 onboard credit which can be used for Windstar’s award-winning shore excursions and adventures, spa services, or even special celebratory cocktails. Premium suite guests are afforded a third option - an upgrade to the All-Inclusive Fare (valued at £81 per guest per day) which includes unlimited alcohol, Wi-Fi, and all gratuities.

  Windstar Cruises is adding a new itinerary in 2026 to its popular Canada & New England season  of sailings which are autumn travel favourites thanks to the line’s ability to visit primarily smaller, scenic ports where big ships don’t go. The line’s 312-guest motor yacht Star Pride sails in the region during the main autumn colour months of September and October for travellers who increasingly enjoy seeing nature’s vibrant display.   The new 14-night Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure sails roundtrip from Montreal with a rare in-depth cruise exploration of Newfoundland and Labrador. While most cruise lines include a quick stop or two, Windstar will spend ample time circumnavigating the region and its remote/hard-to-reach destinations, including the Madeleine Islands. The cruise offers two brand-new ports for Windstar in St. Pierre & Miquelon as well as Trois-Rivières. Both ports offer late nights for additional exploration such as hiking through Trois-Rivières’ Batiscan Park, with 400 acres of pristine wooded terrain brimming with waterfalls and meadows, followed by a guided evening tour of local culinary favourites.   The itinerary also adds two ports Windstar hasn’t visited since 2018: the fishing village of Red Bay in Labrador as well as St. John’s – the capital of Newfoundland – which is an overnight visit, making it ideal for listening to folk music at the bars on George Street late into the night. An additional late night in Quebec City means plenty of time to explore UNESCO sites by day, wine tasting at the Chateau Frontenac with an expert sommelier, and evening tours that highlight the city's rich French influence.   Windstar’s Southeast Canadian Explorations offering returns for the 2026 season sailing from Montreal to Boston and in reverse. Highlights include an overnight in Quebec City and smaller ports such as Cap aux Meules, where a new lobster fishing tour is sure to catch guests’ attention, along with cheese tasting and brewery visits, and a bird-watcher’s dream of a boat cruise that dives into the history and geology of the archipelago’s many caves and cliffs. Windstar will also return to Rockland, Maine on these sailings for the first time since 2018, meaning guests can visit the charming region’s many picturesque lighthouses.   The 14-night Greenland: North Atlantic Odyssey trans-ocean cruise from Reykjavik to Boston also returns for 2026, with scenic cruising of the Prince Christian Sound and Tasermiut Fjord, as well as chances to learn more about Inuit culture in the remote villages of Nanortalik and Narsaq. A late night in Halifax means time to delve into the Titanic’s history and many artifacts, as well as enjoying a food-centric pub crawl pouring local beer and wine.   Windstar has a curated shore excursion programme making it easy for guests to book tours to see and experience a variety of attractions and key highlights in each port.  

• Prices for the 14^th September and 9^th October 11-night Southeast Canadian Explorations cruise start from £4,386 per person.
• Prices for the 25^th September 14-night Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure cruise start from £5,176 per person.
• Prices for the 31^st August 14-night Greenland: North Atlantic Odyssey cruise start from £4,749 per person.

  Windstar Cruises has introduced an early booking offer for Canada & New England 2026 sailings with a complimentary upgrade to the all -inclusive fare (value of £81 per person per day) which includes Wi-Fi, gratuities and unlimited beer, wine and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom. The offer is valid on all 2026 Canada & New England sailings if booked by 30^th April 2025.   “Our small ships have an advantage in Canada and New England because we can visit many smaller towns for a more relaxed, intimate style of exploration,” says Windstar’s President Christopher Prelog. “We’re very happy we can continue accessing many of these tiny ports along with expanding upon what our guests can experience by adding new tours, seaports and an entirely new itinerary for 2026 – all paired with the magic of fall colour splendour that this region is known for.”

Windstar Cruises’ new Star Seeker yacht, the first Star Class new build for the small ship line, has floated out. It emerged from the building dock at the WestSEA Shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal. Work is now ongoing to complete the interiors, including 112 suites. The ship will also have five dining options, a full-service spa with a grand entrance from the deck above, a fitness facility and a new version of the Watersports Platform. This gives guests access to the sea directly from the ship. Star Seeker has a capacity for 224 guests and a staff to guest ratio of 1:2. Star Seeker is set to enter service in December 2025, sailing from Málaga to Miami where the ship’s christening ceremony will take place in January 2026. Star Seeker will then sail its first voyage in the Caribbean and offer more cruises in the region before heading up the West Coast to Alaska for a full season of summer cruises. From there, the ship will sail to Asia, bringing back the line’s popular Around Japan itineraries. Windstar’s Star Seeker float-out ceremony was attended by Mario Ferreira and Manuel Barros of Mystic Invest and Windstar’s Vice President of Expansion Projects John Gunner. “Seeing a ship come together and be at the point where she leaves dry dock for the sea is a memorable milestone,” says Gunner. Windstar will debut an additional new sister ship, Star Explorer, in December 2026. Star Seeker and Star Explorer both have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations.

  Windstar Cruises has officially kicked off its ruby anniversary sailing season, marking 40 years since the company’s founding and celebrating its exemplary small ship cruising style and much-loved crew. The milestone celebration brought together two of Windstar’s iconic vessels—a Star Class motor yacht and Wind Class sailing yacht—in the port of Kusadasi. The 312-guest Star Legend and the 148-guest Wind Spirit docked together as guests and crew disembarked for an exclusive event at the historic ruins of Ephesus, featuring the largest dinner Windstar has ever hosted at the site. Windstar executives along with the company’s ownership, captains and crew, and guests from both ships enjoyed a special evening in the ancient archaeological site.   For more than 20 years, Windstar has typically offered this four-course, al fresco dining experience complimentary to guests on all sailings in the region, but this celebratory event elevated this tradition with two ships in attendance, additional entertainment from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra and vocalists, a progressive cocktail party and several speeches to commemorate the company’s 40-year journey.   Windstar’s Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava and Chief Operations Officer Stijn Creupelandt welcomed attendees, including Windstar’s Yacht Club Members (the line’s returning guests) as well as guests on their first Windstar cruise.   Wind Spirit’s Captain Mark Rowden and Star Legend’s Captain Pedro Pinto spoke of their lengthy seafaring careers and how Windstar has made a positive impact within the cruising industry. Both recognised Windstar’s exceptional crew, many of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years.   “Windstar wouldn’t be the company it is today without the love and support of our owners at Xanterra Travel Collection and The Anschutz Corporation,” Bava explained to event attendees. “With their support we were able to survive the most challenging years in cruise history while expanding the fleet and renovating our ships when the whole world was standing still. With the acquisition of two new ships to the investments being made to elevate our existing fleet, including our beloved Wind class ships that will be completed renovated by 2027, there are plenty of reasons we are so excited for the next 40 years of Windstar."   Windstar was founded by Karl Andren and Jean-Claude Potier in 1984 with an innovative vision for a fleet of modern sail cruisers. Windstar will celebrate its 40-year anniversary across the fleet through October 2025 with additional activations and memorable moments, like complimentary Ruby Anniversary cocktails served at a special 40 years of Windstar trivia event on board (winners will be entered into a drawing to win a cruise for two aboard Star Seeker’s inaugural cruise) as well as limited edition Seabags. The Seabags are a 40^thanniversary series of bespoke bags on board for purchase, crafted from Windstar’s recycled sails. Windstar’s social channels are also sharing special historical moments and staff/crew recognition throughout the year (#40yearsofWindstar).

 

- Early booking offer available through 31^st October 2024 -

  Windstar Cruises has announced a significant expansion of itineraries in the South Pacific, the only region other than the Mediterranean where Windstar sails year-round. Beginning in 2026, Windstar will offer new experiences visiting Fiji, Tonga and the Cook Islands, in addition to existing sailings in Tahiti and the Society Islands, the Tuamotus and the Marquesas. New shorter itinerary options like the seven-night Tuamotus cruise and 11-night Marquesas cruise open these remote destinations to more travellers. Additional air and hotel packages with overwater bungalows in Bora Bora will allow guests to extend their stay in these iconic islands.   Windstar has sailed in Tahiti for more than 36 years and is considered the cruising expert in the region with deep rooted relationships with local partners who assist the line to access remote areas and weave in the Polynesian way of life into its cruise and shoreside experiences. Windstar has the most frequent seven-day departures of any cruise line on its popular Dreams of Tahiti sailing. In 2024, the line began cruising to the remote Marquesas, recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its notable geography and unique culture and heritage. The 312-passenger, all-suite Star Breeze sails in the South Pacific year-round, now with more itineraries and islands than ever before thanks to the 2026 additions.   To celebrate the news, Windstar is concurrently launching an early booking offer. Anyone booking a 2026 South Pacific cruise will enjoy a complimentary All-Inclusive experience (worth £73 per person per day) featuring Wi-Fi; unlimited wine, beer and cocktails; and all gratuities, plus a $100 onboard credit per stateroom.   “Tahiti is one of my favourite destinations on the planet, and I was thrilled to expand Windstar’s itineraries in the region to the remote Marquesas Islands this year,” says Windstar President Christopher Prelog. “These new additions are a natural progression for us, as these faraway South Pacific islands exemplify the heart of Polynesian culture. But they are extremely difficult to access, especially if you’re piecing together your own trip. On Windstar, you’re able to sail there easily on an all-suite ship that has no more than 312 passengers. We can go to places like Tonga and Taveuni without overwhelming the destination from a tourism, ecological and cultural perspective, due to our small size and the great relationships we’ve built while sailing in the region over decades.”   NEW Itineraries Include:   Flowers of the South French Polynesia (15 days) begins with an overnight in Fiji’s largest city, Lautoka, followed by a visit to the small port of SavuSavu to tour its local villages and a stop in Taveuni to experience the rainforests of Bouma National Heritage Park. After a day at sea, it’s onto Nuku’alofa, Tonga, which is known for its beaches and Royal Palace. It’s also a brand-new port for Windstar. In the Cook Islands, Windstar will access both Aitutaki and Rarotonga. Then it’s onto an overnight in Bora Bora and concludes in Papeete, Tahiti.   Maori Storytellers & French Polynesian Treasures (10 or 11 days) starts in Papeete followed by Raiatea. Then it’s off to Aitutaki and Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. The ship then returns to the Society Islands with an overnight in Bora Bora, a day on a private island at Motu Mahaea (Taha'a), Huahine (known for its gardens), Moorea, and ends in Papeete. On the 10-day sailing, Huahine is removed.   Tantalizing Tuamotu Islands & Beautiful Bora Bora (7 days) is a new, shorter version of Windstar’s existing 11-day Tuamotu sailings. It combines the Tuamotus (Fakarava and Tiputa) and the Society Islands (an overnight in Bora Bora plus a day on a private island at Motu Mahaea). It’s perfect for divers, with four opportunities to dive on a seven-day sailing. It can also be combined with the seven-day Dreams of Tahiti itinerary.   Far Flung French Polynesia & Marquesas Magic (11 days) is also a new, shorter version of a current Windstar favourite. It begins in Papeete before heading to Fakarava in the Tuamotus. In the Marquesas, there are visits to Fatu Hiva, Hiva Oa, and Nuku Hiva. The ship then heads back to the Tuamotus with a stop in Rangiroa, followed by an overnight in Bora Bora and return to Papeete. This can also be combined with the seven-day Dreams of Tahiti itinerary.   Other new offerings are air and overwater bungalow packages combined with Windstar’s classic seven-day Dreams of Tahiti cruise that include overnights in a coveted overwater bungalow on Bora Bora pre-cruise. This way guests can experience more inland, starting March 2025 into 2026. Stars Over Bora Bora Air + Overwater Villa Package (14 days) is a new comprehensive package including Air Tahiti Nui flights roundtrip from Seattle or Los Angeles, plus two nights hotel in Papeete and three nights in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. Windstar’s existing Dreams of Tahiti, Tahiti & the Tuamotu Islands, as well as the Tahitian Treasures & Magnificent Marquesas itineraries will continue to be offered in 2026.   Windstar brings the culture of French Polynesia aboard with an onboard cultural ambassador for all sailings. A local Polynesian, this crew member invites guests to embrace all things Polynesian throughout the cruise with special sessions on dance, music, language, culture and art. All itineraries include a complimentary Bora Bora Destination Discovery Event, which is a private evening feast on a motu (small island) with local performances from music to fire dancing. Another special event on the pool deck is an Arearea – an evening of Tahitian celebrations – with local musicians, dancers and hands-on activities like learning how to tie on a pareo and making flower leis. Guests can swim from the ship’s watersports platform and enjoy the use of complimentary water sports equipment to go kayaking and paddle boarding; snorkelling gear is provided comp to guests to keep for the duration of the cruise. Shore excursions are under development for new ports.   The line recently announced it will expand its fleet with two new all-suite ships, which will allow Windstar to bring back one of its beloved Wind Class ships, Wind Star, to Tahiti, where it will join Star Breeze in 2027, adding more capacity to meet the growing demand for South Pacific sailings.

  Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises is unveiling a first look at its Star Seeker – a 224-guest, brand-new ship that will debut in January 2026.   Star Seeker will have 112 spacious suites, all but ten featuring a full private veranda or floor-to-ceiling infinity window. The ship also boasts five dining options (all are included in Windstar’s cruise fare), a full-service spa with a grand entrance from the deck above, a fitness facility and a fresh take on the line’s iconic Watersports Platform, which turns the ocean into an infinity pool by letting guests access the sea directly from the ship.   “Guests aboard Star Seeker will experience a sense of tranquility in their suites; they are designed to be an oasis for relaxation,” says Stijn Creupelandt, vice president of hotel operations at Windstar Cruises. “We used light wood and a soothing colour palette of light blues, greens and natural browns – elements that reflect our Star Class style. Inspired by the sea, sky and landscapes, these colours and textures create a serene atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway. In the ship’s public spaces and restaurants, you’ll find more vibrant hues inspired by sunrises and sunsets, including warm yellows, golds and oranges, ensuring a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort throughout the ship.”   Star Seeker features two Horizon Owner’s Suites, a new suite category for the line, at the aft of the ship on deck 7, which can be combined with adjacent suites for more space and multi-generational families. Each comes with a wrap-around balcony offering spectacular vistas — perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner. The two suites are Star Seeker’s most luxurious and spacious offerings; however, the ship has a full menu of suite offerings with 12 different accommodation types to choose from, many allowing triple occupancy. Star Seeker has 72 suites with large verandas where guests may sit outside and enjoy the view and fresh air.  New for Windstar, 30 infinity suites feature a large floor-to-ceiling infinity window that slides down half-way from the top to open the suite to refreshing sea breezes.   As on all Windstar ships, there are no interior cabins. Star Seeker’s 10 Oceanview suites have plenty of natural light and a view of the sea, a walk-in mosaic glass shower and an inviting queen bed which can be converted into twins if desired. All suites include a fully stocked mini-bar and refrigerator, interactive TV, safe, fresh fruit and waffle weave robe and slippers. The four highest suite categories – Horizon, Star, Classic, Deluxe – add other amenities such as an Illy espresso machine, Canapes service and fresh flowers.   Star Seeker is under construction in Portugal. The maiden voyage will be a Transatlantic sailing in early January from Malaga to Miami. After a christening event in Miami where the cruise line is headquartered, Star Seeker will sail its first voyage in the Caribbean and offer more cruises in the Caribbean before heading up the West Coast of the United States to Alaska for a full season of summer cruises. From there, the ship will sail to Japan and bring back the line’s popular Japan itineraries before heading to Southeast Asia. Details of Star Seeker’s Caribbean, Alaska and Japan cruises will be announced first to Yacht Club members (loyalty members) and travel advisors - giving them priority access to book. In early September, Star Seeker’s itineraries will be announced publicly and available for all to book.   Windstar will debut an additional new sister ship, Star Explorer, in December of 2026.

 

- Early booking offer available through 31^st October 2024 -

  Windstar Cruises has today unveiled its 2026 European voyages, with more new ports and itineraries than the line has ever debuted in a single season.   There are 15 brand-new itineraries, 34 first-time ports, a litany of new Star Collector sailings (which combine several itineraries into one epic/longer adventure) and a first-ever Windstar Solar Eclipse. The 12^th August 2026 Around Iceland: A Total Solar Eclipse will place Windstar guests in the path of totality.   A new 81-day Star Collector 2026 Grand Europe Adventure, begins in Helsinki on 14^th July and visits 20 countries and 67 ports of call before ending in Athens. Overnight stays for up to four days in a single destination and late-night departures allow guests to travel further inland.   The line will also debut new cruise tours from Madrid, allowing guests to explore further inland in Spain; a brand-new circumnavigation of Ireland; a deep dive into the Aeolian Islands; and an exploration of Northern Greece with highlights including chance to visit the Meteora Monasteries from the port of Volos. A larger sampling of new itineraries is listed below.   To celebrate the news, Windstar is concurrently launching an early booking offer. Those who book a 2026 European cruise by 31^st October 2024, will enjoy a complimentary All-Inclusive experience worth £73 per person per day and featuring Wi-Fi, unlimited wine, beer and cocktails, and all gratuities, plus a $100 onboard credit per stateroom.   “Our year-round cruises in the Mediterranean and Europe have more small-ship only destinations than ever before,” says Jess Peterson, Windstar’s itinerary planner. “We’ve designed these voyages with a focus on regional exploration, so that means more overnight stays and off-the-beaten-path experiences to help give you a deeper, more genuine look at some of Europe’s best spots.”   New itineraries and ports mean a host of new shore excursions, and Windstar’s team vets every offering to bring a truly special and uniquely local experience to life – like creating moulded chocolates in Bruges or learning the lyra in Thessaloniki.   Selected 2026 New Itinerary Highlights:  

• Atlantic France (7 nights): Get an in-depth exploration of France on a single cruise. Embark from Bordeaux and its unmatched wineries before sailing down the Dordogne River to the Atlantic and La Rochelle for feasting on oysters; then to Lorient, which accepts just one ship per day; followed by St. Malo, where a late night makes it easy to also visit Mont Saint-Michel. A mid-cruise jaunt to the UK with a visit to Guernsey is an interlude before returning to France and Cherbourg, where one can retrace the footsteps of WWII soldiers at the landing beach sites in Normandy. Finally, there is scenic cruising on the Seine before overnighting in Paris.
• Treasure Troves of Corsica & Sardinia (7 nights): Holiday where the Italians and French do on this roundtrip voyage from Rome. Dolphin watching in Golfo Aranci; promenading at sunset on an overnight in Alghero; coastal driving in Bonifacio; wine tasting in Bastia; and exploring Napoleon’s birthplace in Ajaccio are highlights.
• Northern Spain & Portugal (8 nights): Leave from Lisbon and end with an overnight in Bordeaux. This sailing gives a chance to explore destinations outside of Portugal and Spain’s major cities with stops in small ports of the Galicia and Asturias regions of Spain (plus an overnight in Bilbao) as well as charming Porto and Lisbon.
• Norway’s Southern Splendors (8 nights): Explore little-known fishing ports and scenic inlets along Norway’s southern coastline including charming Rosendal and cozy Egersund, both first-time ports for Windstar. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Urnes Stave Church, savour local cuisine and marvel at natural wonders like Sognefjord, the majestic “King of Fjords.”
• Off-the-Beaten-Path Greek Islands (7 nights): Sail to less popular islands in Greece like Syros, Samos, Naxos, Folegandrosand Milos, enjoying secluded beaches, hidden harbours and romantic ruins. Experience a moonlight concert in Ephesus, sample local Muscat wines in Samos and wander ancient temples.
• Tulip Season in Holland & Belgium (7 nights): Breathe in the height of tulip season in Holland, when the fields explode with vibrant colours. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens, explore new-to-Windstar destinations and overnight in Antwerp, whose exclusive seaport accepts only one ship per day. Cyclists will especially enjoy chances for rides in the countryside outside Harlingen.
• Bella Italia: A Southern Italian Romance (8 nights): Travel like a local in southern Italy’s Calabria and Puglia regions. Explore the winding lanes of Taranto — a coastal city rich in Greek ruins and medieval fortification — before visiting Otranto’s picturesque harbour and Croatia’s Island of Rab.
• Treasures of Southern Spain & Morocco (8 nights): Have a brilliant combination of desirable ports on this Barcelona to Lisbon sailing, including the return of Windstar to Seville. (Windstar is one of the few cruise lines that can do the 50-mile scenic sailing up theGuadalquivir River to access this cultural capital of Southern Spain.) A visit to Tangier is another highlight.

  Star Collectors are longer voyages combining one or more cruises into a comprehensive voyage of 13+ days with few repeated ports. Windstar’s itinerary planning team selects popular itineraries to link up for longer adventures allowing guests to make the most of their time away. As a bonus, free daily laundry is provided so guests can still pack light.   The lead-in price for the 2026 European voyages is £1,897 per person for the five-day Yachtsman’s Harbors of the Rivieras cruise departing 25^th October. Price includes all meals and drinks, gratuities, WiFi and port taxes.   The lead-in price for the new itineraries is £2,614 per person for the seven-day Italy & the Allure of the Aeolian Islands cruise departing 16^th July. Price includes all meals and drinks, gratuities, WiFi and port taxes.

Small ship line Windstar Cruises is holding its largest ever ship visit programme in the UK this year. There are up to 450 places available for travel agent and trade partners at 11 different ports of call. The 2024 ship visit programme will take place in June, July and August with agents spending time on two of Windstar's all-suite Star Class yachts, Star Legend and Star Pride. Visits include a tour of the ship and a short Windstar update. Details:   Monday 3^rd June @ 10.30am – Star Pride in Dublin Saturday 8^th June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Glasgow (Greenock) Monday 10^th June @ 10.30am – Star Pride in Edinburgh (Leith) Tuesday 11^th June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Cork Wednesday 12^th June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Milford Haven (on request only, subject to numbers) Friday 14^th June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Portsmouth Saturday 15^th June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in London (Tower Bridge) Sunday 16^th June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in London (Tower Bridge) Saturday 22^nd June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Holyhead (on request only and subject to numbers) Sunday 23^rd June @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Belfast Thursday 4^th July @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Douglas, Isle of Man Friday 5^th July @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Dublin Thursday 11^th July @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Invergordon Friday 12^th July @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Edinburgh (Leith) Friday 30^th August @ 10.30am – Star Legend in Dublin   All visits are subject to availability and minimum numbers, so agents should register as soon as possible. Augustus Lonsdale, Windstar's head of sales UK & Ireland, said: "I'm delighted that so many UK travel agents will have the chance to come onboard Star Legend and Star Pride this year.” “Windstar Cruises is fully committed to the UK, especially after a record start to the year, and we are continuing to increase sales and visibility within this important market."

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  Windstar Cruises, a leader in small-ship luxury cruising, is excited to announce the expansion of its fleet with the addition of two all-suite motor yachts, Star Seeker and Star Explorer. The first of the two ships, new-build Star Seeker which is currently being constructed in the WestSEA shipyard, is expected to be delivered in December of 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December, 2026.   “Our goal was to ensure these ships are unmistakably Windstar, and a significant amount of effort has gone into achieving this,” says Windstar Cruises’ President Christopher Prelog. “We are thrilled for this expansion, building on the success of our game-changing Star Class in small-ship cruising with guests and travel partners, while offering new experiences. This growth reflects the dedication of our incredible crew and team, allowing us to broaden our destination portfolio and even bring one of our Wind Class sail ships back to Tahiti.”   Each ship has 112 suites, featuring full private verandas and infinity windows, ensuring unparalleled views for every guest onboard. Additionally, two new Owner’s Suites with wrap-around balconies have been added to the aft of the ship, perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner. With a capacity for 224 guests and a staff to guest ratio of 1:2, the ships maintain an intimate atmosphere, ensuring personalized service at every turn.   Guests will also enjoy access to several newly added Windstar guest favorites, including the brand’s iconic Watersports Platform with all-new staircase access, the cozy Yacht Club café and lounge, a two-story spa and fitness facility, an intimate forward whirlpool on the bow, and a spacious open deck perfect for sunbathing and Windstar’s famous deck barbeques.   As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation^® (JBF), Windstar’s commitment to exceptional cuisine will continue to be a priority for the guest experience. The re-imagined main dining room, Amphora, will serve a variety of upscale and inventive dishes, including rotating items from James Beard Foundation–affiliated guest chefs. Al fresco dining will now be available at both Amphora and the Star Grill. A no-charge specialty restaurant and 24-hr room service rounds out the four dining options.   Star Seeker and Star Explorer both have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations. The ships are equipped with the latest technology in safety, propulsion, and navigation, including pump jet thrusters and forward-facing Sonar. To minimize their environmental footprint and uphold the brand’s commitment to sustainability, the ships have tier III Nox rated Rolls Royce engines and can connect to shore power minimizing port emissions. In addition, the ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet all global standards. Every aspect of their design reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to preserving the environment while providing unforgettable experiences to travelers.   Andrew N. Todd, President & CEO of parent company Xanterra Travel Collection said, “As part of our company’s expanding portfolio, Windstar Cruises is poised for remarkable growth and an exciting future ahead. We’re excited about the possibilities of where Windstar will sail and the opportunities it brings our officers, crew and staff, and our guests.”   The expansion also allows Windstar to bring back one of its beloved Wind Class ships, Wind Star, to Tahiti, where it will join Star Breeze in 2027, adding more capacity to meet the growing demand for French Polynesian sailings. With more than 36 years’ experience operating cruises in French Polynesia and a longtime guest favorite, travelers will now have a choice between sailing among the islands on a Wind or Star Class ship.   Full itineraries and booking details for Star Seeker will be announced in late June 2024.   For more information or to sign up for the latest updates, including when both ships open for sale, please sign up here https://www.windstarcruises.com/newships/