Sailing the Hidden Gems: A Guide to Windstar's Exclusive Small Ship Itineraries

Imagine embarking on a journey where the horizon stretches endlessly, and the wind whispers secrets through the sails. This is the essence of Windstar Cruises, where small ships and personalized itineraries come together to create unforgettable experiences. With a fleet that includes both sailing yachts and motorized vessels, Windstar offers a unique blend of adventure and luxury, taking you to over 330 destinations around the globe. Let's dive into what makes their small ship itineraries truly special.

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Why Choose Windstar's Small Ship Cruises?

Windstar's small ships are designed to provide an intimate cruising experience, with passenger capacities ranging from 148 to 342 guests. This smaller size allows for visits to hidden gems that larger cruise liners cannot access, offering a more personalized and immersive journey. Whether you're island-hopping in Tahiti or exploring the Norwegian fjords, Windstar's custom-crafted journeys bring you closer to each destination.

Their fleet includes two main types of vessels: the iconic **Wind Class** sailing yachts, such as Wind Star, Wind Spirit, and Wind Surf, and the luxurious Star Plus Class motor yachts like Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride. Each ship is designed to offer comfort and elegance, with spacious cabins and a relaxed, casual atmosphere.

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Exclusive Itineraries Around the World

Windstar Cruises offers an incredible range of itineraries across the globe, from the vibrant ports of the Caribbean and Central America to the ancient ruins of Europe and the stunning landscapes of Asia and the South Pacific.

### **Caribbean and Central America** - **Panama Canal Transitions**: Experience the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal on a 14-day journey that takes you through Costa Rica and Nicaragua. - **Tropical Treks**: Explore the lush rainforests and exotic ports of Costa Rica and Panama. ### **Europe** - **Mediterranean Marvels**: Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece, Italy, and Spain, enjoying extended port stays and late-night departures. - **Baltic Adventures**: Discover the historic charm of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, with stops in lesser-known ports. ### **South Pacific** - **Tahitian Treasures & Magnificent Marquesas**: Enjoy a 14-day journey through the Tuamotu Islands to the Society Islands, including overnights in Bora Bora and Moorea. - **Island-Hopping in Fiji and Tonga**: Explore the crystal-clear lagoons and lush islands of Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands.

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Standout Features of Windstar Cruises

One of the unique aspects of Windstar is its a la carte pricing strategy, which allows passengers to customize their experience by adding or subtracting extras like airfare, shore excursions, and beverages. This approach provides flexibility and can be more cost-effective for some travelers.

Windstar's onboard atmosphere is characterized by a "casual elegance" dress code, emphasizing comfort and relaxation over formal attire. The ships feature a range of dining options, including **Star Grill**, **AmphorA**, and **Stella Bistro**, ensuring a culinary journey as rich as the destinations themselves.

For entertainment, Windstar offers live music at the Compass Rose, informative port lectures, and destination briefings. There are no typical Vegas-style shows, instead focusing on creating a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe that encourages mingling and relaxation.

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Personalized Approach to Destination-Inspired Cruising

Windstar's partnership with companies like Tauck Small Ship Cruising highlights their commitment to personalized and destination-inspired journeys. For example, the "Treasures of the Aegean" itinerary takes you on a 10-day journey through Greece and Turkey, visiting classical antiquities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This combination of cultural exploration and relaxation showcases the versatility of Windstar's offerings.

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Onboard Amenities and Activities

While Windstar's ships are smaller, they are equipped with amenities designed to enhance your journey. From fine dining options to live music sessions, every aspect of the cruise is crafted to provide a luxurious yet laid-back experience.

Amenity	Description
Dining Options	Enjoy a variety of cuisines at Star Grill, AmphorA, and Stella Bistro.
Onboard Entertainment	Live music at Compass Rose, port lectures, and destination briefings.
Cabin Comforts	Spacious cabins with marble bathrooms and French balconies on select ships.

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Special Cruises and Events

Windstar also offers special themed cruises and events, such as the "President's Mystery Cruise," where the itinerary remains a mystery until the voyage begins. This unique concept adds an element of excitement and adventure for those looking for something different.

Another highlight is Windstar's participation in significant events like the Solar Eclipse Cruise around Iceland, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for astronomy enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

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Why Book with Our Travel Agency?

As a travel business specializing in cruise vacations, we can help you navigate the array of options available with Windstar Cruises. Our expertise ensures that you find the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences. Whether you're looking for the tranquility of a South Pacific getaway or the cultural richness of a Mediterranean voyage, we're here to guide you every step of the way.