In the world of luxury cruising, Windstar Cruises stands apart as a boutique experience that combines the romance of sailing with the comfort of a private yacht. For travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized cruise experience, Windstar offers a refreshing alternative to mega-ships with its fleet of small, elegant vessels that access ports and destinations larger ships simply cannot reach.
The Windstar Fleet: Small Ships with Big Personalities
Windstar Cruises currently operates a fleet of six boutique vessels, with two new ships on the horizon. The fleet is divided into two distinct categories: sailing yachts and all-suite motor yachts.
Sailing Yachts (Wind Class)
- Wind Surf: The flagship of the Windstar fleet, this five-masted sailing yacht accommodates 342 guests and is the world’s largest sailing vessel. With elegant lines and computerized sails that unfurl at the push of a button, Wind Surf offers a true sailing experience combined with luxury amenities.
- Wind Star and Wind Spirit: These identical sister ships each carry 148 passengers and feature four masts and wide teak decks. Designed for romance and elegance, these vessels provide an intimate sailing experience with all the comforts of a luxury yacht.
All-Suite Motor Yachts (Star Class)
- Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend: Each of these identical ships accommodates 312 guests in all-suite accommodations. These vessels underwent a major transformation as part of Windstar’s $250 million Star Plus Initiative, which included stretching the ships to add more suites and public spaces while maintaining the intimate atmosphere.
Coming Soon: The Future of the Fleet
Windstar is expanding its fleet with two new all-suite motor yachts:
- Star Seeker: Expected to join the fleet in December 2025, this newbuild will feature 112 suites, each with a private veranda.
- Star Explorer: Scheduled for delivery in December 2026, this vessel will mirror Star Seeker’s specifications and luxurious amenities.
Both new ships will accommodate 224 guests with a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:2, ensuring the personalized service Windstar is known for. These vessels will feature innovative additions including a two-story spa and fitness facility, Windstar’s iconic Watersports Platform, and wrap-around balconies for the Owner’s Suites.
Luxurious Accommodations: Your Home at Sea
One of the hallmarks of the Windstar experience is the spacious, well-appointed accommodations. Unlike the cramped cabins found on some cruise ships, Windstar offers roomier options with thoughtful amenities.
Wind Class Accommodations
The sailing ships feature ocean-view staterooms and suites, most ranging from 188 to 376 square feet. While these accommodations don’t have private balconies, they offer elegant comfort with queen beds, flat-screen TVs, and marble bathrooms with L’Occitane amenities.
Star Class Accommodations
The all-suite motor yachts take luxury to another level with accommodations ranging from 277 square feet to the lavish 820-square-foot Owner’s Suites. All suites feature ocean views, with many offering step-out balconies or French balconies. Standard amenities include:
- Queen beds that can convert to twins
- Walk-in closets
- Marble bathrooms with full-size tubs or walk-in showers
- Flat-screen TVs and Bose sound systems
- Fresh fruit and flowers
- Plush bathrobes and slippers
- 24-hour room service
The new Star Seeker and Star Explorer will elevate this experience further with all suites featuring private verandas and infinity windows, plus the addition of new Owner’s Suites with wrap-around balconies at the aft of each ship.
Culinary Excellence: A Feast for the Senses
As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar takes dining seriously. The cruise line has maintained a partnership with the prestigious culinary organization for a decade, bringing acclaimed chefs aboard for special sailings and incorporating their recipes into shipboard menus.
Dining Venues
Each Windstar ship offers multiple dining options:
- Amphora: The main dining room features gourmet meals with an emphasis on local ingredients and regional specialties. The menu changes daily and includes dishes created by James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs.
- Veranda: This casual venue serves breakfast and lunch buffets with indoor and outdoor seating options.
- Candles: This romantic al fresco dining experience transforms deck space into an intimate steakhouse under the stars each evening.
- Yacht Club: A casual café offering sandwiches, snacks, and specialty coffees throughout the day.
- Star Grill by Steven Raichlen (on Star Class ships): Features grilled specialties created by the global grilling authority.
- Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso (on Star Class ships): A Spanish restaurant concept from the celebrated 13-year Michelin-starred chef.
Culinary-Themed Cruises
For food enthusiasts, Windstar offers special culinary-themed cruises featuring guest chefs from the James Beard Foundation. These sailings include cooking demonstrations, special menus, market tours with the chef, and other gastronomic activities.
In 2025, Windstar will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its partnership with the James Beard Foundation by welcoming five “All-Star” chefs aboard for themed cruises, including acclaimed culinary talents like Larry Forgione, Jennifer Hill Booker, and José Mendin.
Exceptional Service: The Windstar Difference
With fewer than 350 guests on any Windstar ship and a high staff-to-guest ratio (approximately 1:1.5), personalized service is guaranteed. Crew members quickly learn your name and preferences, creating a familiar, club-like atmosphere.
The service style strikes the perfect balance – attentive without being intrusive, professional yet warm and friendly. Many guests cite the crew’s exceptional service as their primary reason for returning to Windstar again and again.
Unlike larger cruise lines with rigid protocols, Windstar embraces flexibility. Want to dine alone tonight but join a group tomorrow? No problem. Prefer breakfast in your suite? Certainly. This adaptability extends to shore excursions as well, with opportunities for both organized tours and independent exploration.
Destinations: Exploring the World’s Most Beautiful Places
Windstar sails to nearly 100 countries across the globe, specializing in immersive experiences in both popular ports and hidden harbors that larger ships cannot access. Key destination regions include:
Mediterranean
From the glamorous French Riviera to the ancient ruins of Greece and Turkey, Windstar’s Mediterranean itineraries explore iconic destinations like Venice, Rome, Barcelona, and Athens, as well as smaller gems like Portofino, Sanary-sur-Mer, and Monemvasia.
Caribbean
Windstar showcases a different side of the Caribbean, focusing on smaller islands and secluded beaches. Itineraries often include less-visited destinations like Jost Van Dyke, Mayreau, Bequia, and Les Saintes, alongside more familiar ports such as St. Barts and Virgin Gorda.
Tahiti & South Pacific
Windstar has a long history in French Polynesia, offering year-round sailings among the islands of Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, and beyond. In fact, with the addition of the new ships, Windstar plans to position two vessels in Tahiti starting in 2027, offering diverse South Pacific experiences.
Northern Europe & Baltic
Summer itineraries explore the fjords of Norway, the capitals of the Baltic, and the British Isles, with extended stays in St. Petersburg and scenic cruising through breathtaking landscapes.
Asia
From the ancient temples of Southeast Asia to the futuristic cities of Japan, Windstar’s Asia itineraries offer immersive cultural experiences and access to both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Alaska
Windstar’s approach to Alaska focuses on wilderness and wildlife, with itineraries featuring Misty Fjords, Tracy Arm, and the Inside Passage, plus opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing in small groups.
Central America & Panama Canal
These itineraries typically combine transit through the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal with explorations of Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and wildlife reserves.
Australia & New Zealand
Relatively new to Windstar’s portfolio, these voyages showcase the diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife of the Land Down Under.
Onboard Experience: Casual Elegance at Sea
Windstar embodies “casual elegance” – luxurious without being pretentious, refined without being stuffy. There are no formal nights requiring tuxedos or gowns; instead, the evening dress code is “elegant casual” with most men opting for slacks and collared shirts and women wearing dresses or nice separates.
Signature Experiences
Several experiences define the Windstar difference:
- Signature Sail Away: On the sailing ships, the unfurling of the sails to the sound of Vangelis’ “1492: Conquest of Paradise” creates a magical moment that passengers remember long after their cruise.
- Watersports Platform: When conditions permit, the ships’ unique stern platforms open to create a private beach club on the water. Guests can swim, kayak, paddleboard, sail, or water ski directly from the ship.
- Deck Barbecue: This feast under the stars features an elaborate buffet, live music, and dancing under the open sky – a highlight of every Windstar cruise.
- Private Events: On most itineraries, Windstar hosts a complimentary private event ashore, such as a classical concert in an ancient amphitheater or a beach party on a private island.
Enrichment & Entertainment
Entertainment on Windstar is low-key and sophisticated, focusing on local culture and natural beauty rather than Broadway-style shows or casinos. Options include:
- Local Performances: Musicians, dancers, or cultural ambassadors from the region often come aboard to perform.
- Star Deck: The open deck space becomes a romantic venue for stargazing or dancing under the night sky.
- Destination Lectures: Experts provide insights into the history, culture, and attractions of upcoming ports.
- Culinary Demonstrations: Chefs showcase regional cooking techniques and recipes.
Sustainability Initiatives: Responsible Cruising
Windstar has implemented several sustainability initiatives across its fleet:
- Advanced wastewater treatment systems
- Reduced single-use plastics (providing reusable water bottles to all guests)
- Shore power capabilities where available
- The new Star Seeker and Star Explorer will feature tier III NOx rated Rolls Royce engines to minimize emissions
The Windstar Experience
Windstar Cruises offers a distinctive approach to luxury cruising that appeals to travelers seeking authentic experiences in a refined yet relaxed setting. With small ships that can access ports off-limits to larger vessels, exceptional cuisine, spacious accommodations, and attentive service, Windstar provides a private yacht-like experience at a more accessible price point than actual private yachting.
As the cruise line expands with two new ships in 2025 and 2026, Windstar continues to innovate while maintaining the intimate atmosphere and personalized service that have been its hallmarks for decades. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing through the Greek Isles, exploring remote Caribbean coves, experiencing the majesty of Alaska, or immersing yourself in the paradise of Tahiti, Windstar Cruises offers a sophisticated adventure that’s 180 degrees from ordinary.
Why Book with Ana White Luxury Travel?
Partnering with Ana White Luxury Travel for your Windstar cruise offers numerous advantages:
- Expert Knowledge: Ana’s specialized knowledge of Windstar Cruises ensures you’ll be matched with the perfect ship and itinerary for your preferences.
- Personalized Service: From pre-cruise planning to post-voyage follow-up, Ana provides attentive service tailored to your specific needs and interests.
- Problem Resolution: Should any issues arise before or during your cruise, Ana serves as your advocate, resolving problems quickly and efficiently.
- Comprehensive Planning: Beyond the cruise itself, Ana can arrange pre/post-cruise hotels, transportation, tours, and travel insurance for a seamless vacation experience.
- Time and Stress Savings: Let Ana handle the research, comparisons, and booking details, saving you time and eliminating the stress of planning.
For the ultimate Windstar Cruises experience tailored to your preferences, contact Ana White at ana@anawhiteluxurytravel.com to begin planning your voyage today.
