Sailing in Style: What Makes Windstar's Small Ship Cruises So Unique?

Imagine sailing on a luxurious yacht with fewer than 350 guests, where every moment feels like a personalized adventure. Windstar Cruises offers this exclusive experience, blending elegant sailing ships with intimate, small-ship yachts to create a one-of-a-kind journey. Whether you're drawn to the majestic sails of the Wind Class or the opulence of the Star Plus Class, Windstar ensures that every voyage is a memorable blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Intimate Sailing Experience

Windstar's fleet includes both sailing ships and traditional yachts, each designed to provide an intimate atmosphere that feels like your own private yacht. The Wind Class, featuring the Wind Star, Wind Spirit, and Wind Surf, are renowned for their iconic sails and ability to navigate smaller ports, offering access to hidden gems that larger cruise ships can't reach. Each of these sailing ships accommodates between 148 and 342 guests, ensuring a cozy and exclusive setting for exploring the world's most stunning destinations.

For those seeking a more modern yacht experience, Windstar's Star Plus Class, including the Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride, offers all-suite accommodations for up to 212 guests. These ships combine the luxury of a boutique hotel with the freedom of sailing to unique ports.

Standout Features of Windstar Ships

Windstar ships are celebrated for their beautiful teak decks, elegant sails, and sophisticatedly designed interiors. Here are some standout features that make Windstar cruises truly unique:

• Open Decks and Hidden Nooks: Wide open teak decks invite guests to enjoy sunbathing, socializing, or simply hiding away in one of the many private nooks.
• Gourmet Dining: Enjoy dining under the stars at Candles Grill or savor gourmet meals at Amphora Restaurant, with open seating that fosters a sense of community.
• Relaxation and Adventure: Onboard amenities like the World Spa by Windstar, watersports platforms, and pools offer the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Renovations and Refreshments

Windstar is continuously enhancing its fleet through the Setting Sails: A Wind Class Refresh initiative. This multi-year project focuses on redesigning public spaces and staterooms to create a timeless and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can expect revamped lounges, updated spas, and beautifully refurbished teak decks. For instance, Wind Spirit is set to complete its redesign in 2025, ensuring that every detail reflects the essence of small-ship luxury.

Windstar's commitment to innovation is also seen in recent updates to the Wind Star, which now offers a completely redesigned welcome lobby, a revamped lounge with a cozy ambiance, and new poolside amenities. These renovations emphasize Windstar's dedication to providing a superior sailing experience.

Destinations and Itineraries

Windstar Cruises takes you to over 150 ports in 50 countries, offering a diverse array of itineraries from the sun-kissed islands of the Caribbean to the majestic fjords of Norway. Whether you're drawn to the ancient cultures of Asia, the historical landmarks of Europe, or the breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska, Windstar's small ships allow for a more intimate and immersive exploration of these regions.

Some of the most sought-after destinations include:

• Tahiti and the South Pacific: Experience the crystal-clear lagoons and lush rainforests of Tahiti and surrounding islands.
• Europe and the Mediterranean: Discover historic landmarks, culinary delights, and cultural charm in Europe's most enchanting cities.
• Costa Rica and the Caribbean: Enjoy tropical retreats filled with wildlife encounters and natural wonders.

Dining and Entertainment

Windstar Cruises boasts an exceptional dining experience, with a focus on gourmet cuisine and casual yet elegant dining venues. Guests can enjoy:

• Amphora Restaurant: Savor course-by-course dining in the evenings.
• Veranda Restaurant: Enjoy buffet and full-service dining for breakfast and lunch.
• Candles Grill: Dine under the stars with steaks and skewers.

Onboard entertainment includes live music, insightful lectures, and destination briefings, ensuring that there's always something to engage your interests. Whether you're relaxing by the pool or enjoying a cocktail in the lounge, every moment feels like a celebration of life's simple pleasures.

Special Themed Cruises

For those looking for a more specialized experience, Windstar offers themed cruises focused on wine, food, and other unique interests. These themed voyages allow guests to delve deeper into their passions while exploring new destinations. Imagine sipping wine in the Mediterranean or exploring the world's culinary delights alongside gourmet chefs.

Cabin and Suite Options

Windstar ships offer a range of accommodations, from Deluxe Ocean View Staterooms to luxurious Owner's Suites. Each cabin is designed to provide comfort and elegance, with amenities like queen beds, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Here's a comparison of some of the cabin options:

These accommodations are designed to feel like a home away from home, ensuring that every moment of your journey is both relaxing and rejuvenating.

Onboard Amenities and Activities

Windstar Cruises provides a variety of onboard activities and amenities to keep you entertained and relaxed throughout your journey. Some highlights include:

• World Spa by Windstar: Enjoy massages, facials, and herbal wraps in a serene setting.
• Watersports Platform: Explore the ocean with snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Library and Lounge: Relax with a book or enjoy live music and cocktails.

These amenities create a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, allowing you to tailor your cruise experience to your preferences.

Why Choose Windstar Cruises?

Windstar stands out for its commitment to personalized service, intimate settings, and unique port access. By choosing Windstar, you're opting for:

• Personalized Experience: With fewer guests, every detail is tailored to your needs.
• Access to Hidden Gems: Visit ports that larger ships can't reach.
• Luxurious Amenities: Enjoy gourmet dining, spas, and elegant public spaces.

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo journey of self-discovery, Windstar Cruises offers the perfect setting to create lifelong memories.