WHILE MOST CRUISE LINES “sail” the seven seas propelled by engines, Windstar Cruises made its name with ships that truly move under sail, updated with modern computer controls. Windstar’s first sailing vessels, the Wind Star and the Wind Spirit, are 148-passenger boutique ships each equipped with four 204-foot masts. The line’s largest sailing vessel, the 312-passenger Wind Surf, features seven triangular, self-furling, computer-operated sails spread across five masts, each rising 221 feet above teak decks — making it one of the world’s largest sail cruisers. Although these ships use engines much of the time, when the sails are deployed the atmosphere is uniquely romantic and evocative of classic yachting.
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In 2014 and 2015 Windstar expanded its fleet with three additional 212-passenger boutique ships: the Star Pride, Star Legend and Star Breeze. Though these vessels do not carry sails, they retain Windstar’s distinctive, sleek style and deliver the same relaxed, upscale sailing experience. Windstar’s ambiance appeals to couples and travelers seeking an intimate, romantic escape at sea. Dining tends toward bistro-style service — casual yet refined, with no assigned seating or formal dress nights. Entertainment shifts away from large-scale productions in favor of more understated experiences, while a wide range of water-based activities is offered, including diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, waterskiing and windsurfing. The line positions itself as a premium product with subtle luxury: casinos are modest, all cabins are outside-facing with portholes or French balconies, and fitness facilities are compact compared with those on larger luxury ships.
Because the ships are small and maneuverable, Windstar can visit off-the-beaten-path ports within popular cruising regions. The itineraries are designed for adventurous travelers but are not as rugged as those of expedition lines. Historically, Windstar has concentrated on Europe and the Mediterranean in winter and spring, the Caribbean and Central/South America in summer and fall, and year-round weekly sailings in Tahiti. In recent years the line has expanded its reach. Fifteen new itineraries introduced for 2017–2018 extended Windstar’s presence in Asia and the Arabian region, with sailings in Japan, China, Thailand, the Philippines, South Korea, Borneo and Vietnam, as well as cruises out of Dubai that visit India and Egypt. Additional new routes broadened options in the Caribbean, Costa Rica and Panama.
For the first time in two decades Windstar returned to Alaska. From May through August 2018 the Star Legend operated a series of 11- to 14-day cruises between Vancouver and Seward. The ship’s size allowed it to navigate intimate waterways such as Misty Fiords National Monument and Kenai Fjords National Park, and every voyage included transit through the pristine Tracy Arm Fjord. Optional land excursions were available to extend the experience inland and provide deeper exploration of Alaska’s interior.
Across its fleet and destinations, Windstar aims to deliver a yacht-like cruising atmosphere combined with many of the conveniences of larger ships. Service is personalized, dining is elevated, and guests often have the opportunity to visit the bridge and speak with the captain and crew while underway — reinforcing the small-ship, hands-on spirit that defines the line.