Skip the Resort, Sail the Bahamas: My Unforgettable Windstar Cruise Review

The scent of salt and jasmine on a warm breeze. The gentle lapping of turquoise water against a hull. The feeling of sand, as fine and soft as powdered sugar, between your toes. For years, my vision of the Bahamas was a collage of glossy resort brochures—sprawling pools, bustling beaches, and a certain predictable rhythm. It was beautiful, yes, but it felt…impersonal. I craved something deeper, a way to connect with the archipelago’s quieter soul, the one that whispers in its secluded coves and pastel-hued villages.

Then I discovered Windstar Cruises. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a revelation. It was trading the resort crowds for the intimate camaraderie of a private yacht, the buffet lines for world-class, open-seating dining, and the mega-ports for hidden harbors accessible only to smaller vessels. This is the story of how I skipped the resort and found the real Bahamas, and why I believe a Windstar cruise is the most profound way to experience these legendary islands.

If you're already intrigued by the idea of a different kind of Bahamas, you can explore potential sailings and dates right now using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. But for the full picture, allow me to transport you onboard.

The Windstar Difference: 180 Degrees from Ordinary

Before we even cast off, it’s crucial to understand what sets Windstar apart. Their philosophy is simple yet revolutionary in the world of cruising: "180 Degrees from Ordinary." This isn't just a marketing slogan; it’s a promise woven into every aspect of the experience. Forget everything you think you know about cruising. There are no massive atriums, no waterslides, and no thousand-person-long lines.

Instead, you find a sleek, elegant yacht—in my case, the newly reimagined Star Pride—hosting a maximum of just 312 guests. This isn't a floating city; it's a floating boutique hotel where the crew knows your name, your preferred cocktail, and how you take your coffee by the second day. The guest-to-crew ratio is astonishing, leading to a level of intuitive, personalized service that feels less like hospitality and more like being welcomed into an exclusive club.

• Intimate Scale: With fewer guests, every space feels uncrowded. You’ll never have to search for a lounge chair by the pool or wait for a table at dinner.
• Yachting, Not Cruising: The smaller size allows Windstar to navigate where the mega-ships can't, taking you to the heart of secluded bays and charming, less-traveled ports.
• Casual Elegance: The dress code is relaxed luxury. Think resort casual. There are no formal nights, no required tuxedos or gowns. The focus is on comfort and connection, not pomp and circumstance.
• All-Suite Accommodations: On the Star Plus Class yachts, every single room is a suite, offering expansive ocean views, ample space, and luxurious appointments.

Life Onboard: Your Private Oasis at Sea

Stepping onto a Windstar yacht is like stepping into a different world. The ambiance is one of understated sophistication. Polished wood, nautical blues, and expansive glass windows create a seamless connection to the sea. It’s a vessel designed not to distract you from the destination, but to enhance it.

The Suite Life: A Room with a View, and So Much More

My Ocean View Suite was a sanctuary. At a generous 277 square feet, it felt more like a spacious hotel room than a cabin. A large picture window framed the ever-changing seascape like a living piece of art. The walk-in closet provided more than enough space, and the marble-lined bathroom with its powerful shower was a daily indulgence. The bed, dressed in the finest Egyptian cotton linens, was a cloud I sank into each night, lulled to sleep by the gentle motion of the yacht.

The thoughtful touches were what truly elevated the experience: the fresh fruit and flowers waiting upon my arrival, the fully stocked mini-bar (customizable to your preferences), and the attentive service of my suite attendant, who seemed to magically anticipate my every need.

Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses

Dining on Windstar is a highlight, not an afterthought. In partnership with the James Beard Foundation, the culinary program is exceptional. All dining is included, and you’re free to dine when, where, and with whom you please.

• Amphora: The main dining room is an elegant, contemporary space serving multi-course gourmet dinners. The menu changes daily, featuring international cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients sourced from the ports we visited.
• Veranda: For breakfast and lunch, Veranda offers a beautiful buffet with made-to-order stations, all with the option to dine al fresco on the deck, feeling the warm Bahamian sun on your skin.
• Candles: This is the signature Windstar experience. Each evening, a portion of the Veranda deck is transformed into a romantic, open-air steakhouse. Dining under the stars, with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack, enjoying a perfectly grilled filet mignon or fresh local lobster—it’s pure magic. Reservations are recommended, but there's no extra charge.

The quality is paramount. This isn't mass-produced food; it's carefully crafted cuisine that rivals top-tier restaurants on land. If you're a food lover who has been hesitant about cruise dining, Windstar will change your mind. Our experts can even help you understand the specific dining venues on your chosen yacht; simply Inquire About This Sailing and we’ll provide all the delicious details.

Unwinding at Sea: Your Pace, Your Paradise

Sea days were never boring; they were blissful. I’d start my morning with a latte from the Yacht Club Café, find a quiet nook with a book, and watch the world drift by. The pool deck is a social hub, but it’s relaxed and spacious, with plush loungers and attentive staff ready with a cool drink. The World Spa by Windstar offered rejuvenating treatments, and the well-equipped fitness center helped me work off the previous night's dessert. In the evenings, we’d gather at the Compass Rose bar for cocktails and live music, sharing stories of our day's adventures with newfound friends.

A Bahamian Itinerary Unlike Any Other

This is where the small-ship advantage truly shines. While the mega-liners converge on Nassau, Windstar charts a course for the soul of the Bahamas: the Out Islands. Our itinerary was a perfect blend of iconic beauty and off-the-beaten-path discovery.

Nassau: Beyond the Crowds

We did stop in Nassau, but the experience was different. Instead of being one of five colossal ships in port, we felt a sense of exclusivity. Windstar’s curated shore excursions allowed us to bypass the typical tourist traps. I chose a small-group tour to a private island escape, where we spent the day snorkeling in crystal-clear water and lounging on a pristine beach, far from the bustling crowds of the main port. It was the perfect, tranquil introduction to the islands.

The Out Islands: The True Jewel of the Bahamas

The days that followed were pure enchantment. We sailed into harbors so small and waters so clear you could see starfish on the ocean floor from the deck. This is the Bahamas of postcards and dreams.

• Harbour Island, Eleuthera: We anchored off the coast and tendered into this impossibly charming island, famous for its stunning Pink Sand Beach. I spent the day exploring the quaint, colorful streets of Dunmore Town by golf cart, sipping a Goombay Smash at a beachfront bar, and feeling the famously rosy-hued sand sift through my fingers. It was serene, picturesque, and utterly unforgettable.
• The Exumas: This chain of 365 cays is a yachter's paradise, and we had it almost to ourselves. The water here is a mesmerizing tapestry of blues, from pale aquamarine to deep sapphire. This was the day for Windstar’s signature moment.

The Signature Watersports Platform

Imagine this: The yacht anchors in a calm, turquoise bay. A platform lowers from the stern, creating your own private marina. Within minutes, you can grab a kayak, a stand-up paddleboard, or a snorkeling mask and dive directly into the warm, inviting sea. There’s no tender to a crowded beach, no waiting in line. It’s just you, the open water, and the stunning Bahamian scenery. Floating on a mat behind the yacht, cocktail in hand, I felt a sense of freedom and luxury that no resort could ever replicate.

This experience alone is worth the price of admission. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, don't hesitate to speak with one of our specialists. Call us at 1 (888) 883‑0460 to discuss how you can experience this unique feature for yourself.

The Vibe: Casual Elegance, Unscripted Moments

What truly stays with you after a Windstar cruise is the feeling. It’s the "Open Bridge" policy, where you can walk onto the bridge and chat with the Captain and officers, looking over the nautical charts as they navigate these pristine waters. It’s the spontaneous conversations with fellow guests from around the world who share your passion for authentic travel. It’s the crew member who remembers you love spicy food and brings you a special dish from the galley. These are the unscripted moments that transform a great vacation into a cherished memory.

Is a Windstar Bahamas Cruise Right for You?

If you are a traveler who values experiences over extravagance, connection over crowds, and discovery over distraction, then the answer is a resounding yes. This cruise is for you if:

• You've "been there, done that" with mega-resorts and large cruise ships.
• You seek authentic cultural immersion and natural beauty.
• You appreciate high-end dining and intuitive, personalized service.
• You love the water and the idea of a private marina at your disposal.
• You want to truly relax and disconnect in an atmosphere of casual, unpretentious luxury.

Planning Your Windstar Escape

My journey through the Bahamas with Windstar was more than a vacation; it was a paradigm shift. It showed me a side of these islands I never knew existed, all while cocooned in the comfort and elegance of a private yacht. It’s an experience I cannot recommend highly enough.

The best way to turn this dream into a reality is to let our experts guide you. We have deep knowledge of Windstar's fleet, itineraries, and current promotions. We can craft a seamless journey from start to finish. For a quick question or to get a feel for our service, click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right of your screen. Our team is ready to assist.

For a comprehensive, no-obligation travel plan tailored to your exact preferences, the next step is simple. Let us build the perfect Bahamian yachting adventure for you.
Plan Your Bahamas Adventure and receive a custom quote from one of our dedicated cruise specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code on a Windstar cruise?

The dress code is "Casual Elegance." During the day, shorts, sundresses, and casual wear are perfect. In the evening, men typically wear slacks and a collared shirt, while women opt for slacks, skirts, or casual dresses. No jackets, ties, or formal gowns are required, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

Are gratuities included on Windstar?

A hotel service charge of $16 USD per person per day is automatically added to your onboard account. This covers all your service staff, including your suite attendant and dining staff. You can adjust this amount at your discretion at the end of the cruise. A 18% beverage service charge is added to all bar tabs.

What kind of shore excursions does Windstar offer in the Bahamas?

Windstar offers a curated selection of small-group excursions focused on authentic experiences. These can range from snorkeling and diving in pristine coral reefs, private beach escapes, culinary tours exploring local flavors, and cultural tours of historic towns. The focus is on quality and immersion, away from the mass-market tours.

Is Windstar a good choice for solo travelers?

Absolutely. The intimate and social atmosphere on board makes it very easy for solo travelers to meet and connect with other guests. The crew is exceptionally welcoming, and the open-seating dining allows for flexibility in joining others for meals if you wish. They also occasionally offer reduced single supplements on select voyages.

What's included in the Windstar cruise fare?

Your cruise fare includes your suite accommodation, all meals in all dining venues (including specialty restaurants like Candles), non-alcoholic beverages (including soda, specialty coffees, and juices), use of the Watersports Platform, and all onboard entertainment. Alcoholic beverages, gratuities, and shore excursions are typically extra, though Windstar often offers All-Inclusive packages.