Sailing into Hidden Gems: How Windstar Cruises' Small Ships Access the World's Most Exclusive Ports

Imagine sailing into secluded harbors, exploring ancient ruins, and experiencing local cultures without the crowds. Windstar Cruises offers this unique blend of adventure and relaxation with its fleet of small ships. These vessels, ranging from sailing yachts to all-suite power yachts, allow travelers to discover destinations that larger cruise lines cannot reach. With a capacity of just 148 to 342 guests, Windstar's ships provide an intimate and personalized experience, perfect for those seeking a more immersive and authentic travel experience.

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Why Small Ships Matter

One of the key advantages of Windstar's small ships is their ability to navigate into smaller ports and hidden coves. This capability opens up a world of exclusive destinations, from the Caribbean to Europe and even Alaska. For instance, the shallow draft of Windstar's ships allows them to dock in places like Lipari, where passengers might need to take smaller boats ashore, providing a truly unique experience.

Moreover, the small size of Windstar's ships means passengers are treated to a more personalized service. With fewer guests on board, each traveler can enjoy more time with the crew and a tailored approach to their vacation, ensuring that every moment feels special and memorable.

Types of Ships in Windstar's Fleet

Windstar Cruises operates two distinct types of vessels: the iconic Wind Class sailing ships and the Star Plus Class power yachts.

- **Wind Star**: Launched in 1986, this sailing yacht accommodates 148 guests in 74 staterooms, offering a traditional sailing experience with modern comforts. - **Wind Spirit**: Similar to the Wind Star, it also carries 148 passengers, providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere. - **Wind Surf**: The largest sailing ship in the fleet, it can accommodate up to 342 guests, offering a spacious yet still intimate sailing experience. - **Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend**: These power yachts each carry up to 212 passengers, featuring all-suite accommodations and a more contemporary cruise experience.

Each ship offers its own unique charm, from the nostalgic feel of the sailing yachts to the luxurious ambiance of the power yachts.

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Exclusive Destinations

Windstar's itineraries take travelers to over 330 ports around the world, many of which are inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Whether sailing through the Greek Isles, exploring the Mediterranean, or island-hopping in Tahiti, Windstar's small ships allow for a deeper connection with each destination.

Some of the most appealing aspects of Windstar's cruises include:

- **Port-Intensive Itineraries**: Spend more time in each port, often staying late into the evening or even overnight, allowing for a more immersive experience. - **Authentic Local Experiences**: Engage with local cultures through carefully curated excursions and events that bring you closer to the heart of each destination. - **Signature Expeditions**: Explore remote areas like Alaska, where Zodiac excursions allow you to witness breathtaking landscapes and wildlife up close ??.

Themed Voyages and Special Events

Windstar also offers themed voyages, which enable travelers to connect with like-minded individuals while experiencing some of the world's most exclusive events. These voyages might include culinary-themed cruises, wine appreciation tours, or cultural festivals, adding an extra layer of excitement to your journey.

For example, a Windstar cruise through the Greek Isles not only offers stunning island vistas but also immerses you in local traditions and history, making each port visit a memorable experience.

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Onboard Amenities and Culinary Delights

Onboard, Windstar's ships are renowned for their award-winning service and innovative culinary programs. As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers a dining experience that is both sophisticated and inspired by local flavors. Enjoy dishes crafted from fresh, regional ingredients, often accompanied by wine pairings or chef-led cooking demonstrations ???.

Some highlights of Windstar's onboard amenities include:

- Signature Beach Party: Enjoy a secluded beach day with a buffet, watersports, and local entertainment. - Watersports Platform: Jump into crystal-clear waters from the stern of the ship for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply enjoying the sun. - Intimate Dining Venues: Savor meals in cozy restaurants with menus that reflect the local cuisine of each port.

Star Plus Initiative: Enhancing the Cruise Experience

In recent years, Windstar has invested significantly in the Star Plus Initiative, a $250 million project aimed at enhancing its Star Class ships. This initiative included lengthening the Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend by 84 feet, adding new amenities and suites while maintaining the ships' ability to navigate smaller ports.

This expansion has allowed Windstar to offer even more luxurious accommodations and enhanced dining options, further elevating the cruising experience for its guests.

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Upcoming Developments

Windstar continues to grow and innovate, with plans to add new ships to its fleet. The Star Seeker, a new build originally intended for Atlas Ocean Voyages, will join Windstar in December 2025. Additionally, the Star Explorer, currently sailing as the World Explorer, will enter service at the end of its charter agreement in December 2026.

This expansion not only increases Windstar's capacity but also offers more diverse itineraries and opportunities for travelers to explore new and exciting destinations.

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Environmental Responsibility

Windstar is part of the Xanterra Travel Collection, known for its commitment to environmentally responsible travel practices. This alignment reflects Windstar's own dedication to reducing its environmental footprint while providing enriching travel experiences.

As part of this effort, Windstar emphasizes sustainable tourism practices and supports initiatives that preserve the beauty of the destinations it visits.

Comparison of Windstar Ships

Ship Name	Capacity	Year Entered Service	Unique Features
Wind Star	148 Guests	1986	Traditional Sailing Experience
Wind Spirit	148 Guests	1988	Intimate and Cozy Atmosphere
Wind Surf	342 Guests	1998	Largest Sailing Ship in Fleet
Star Pride	212 Guests	2014	All-Suite Accommodations
Star Breeze	212 Guests	2015	Contemporary Cruise Experience
Star Legend	212 Guests	2015	Spacious Public Areas

Each ship in Windstar's fleet offers a distinct character, ensuring that there's a perfect fit for every type of traveler seeking a unique sailing experience.