You Want an Intimate Ambiance That’s Casual Yet Culinary-Focused
You Want an Intimate Ambiance That’s Casual Yet Culinary-Focused
Choose: Windstar Cruises
Yes, you’re looking for an intimate cruise experience that’s as relaxed as it is refined, and Windstar Cruises delivers just that. Whether sailing aboard a classic wind-powered yacht or an all-suite motor yacht, Windstar combines casual comfort with culinary excellence. With itineraries that visit smaller, off-the-beaten-path ports like Patmos in the Greek Islands or Jost Van Dyck in the British Virgin Islands, Windstar offers unique voyages that many larger ships simply can’t access. For something truly special, Windstar also sails year-round in Tahiti, offering dreamy 7- and 11-night cruises roundtrip from Papeete.
Owned by: Xanterra Travel Collection, the same company that operates iconic lodges in national parks like Yellowstone and Grand Canyon, as well as The Broadmoor and Sea Island resorts.
Ships: Windstar operates six small ships, each built between 1986 and 1992 but extensively refurbished to meet modern luxury standards. The fleet includes three wind-powered yachts—Wind Star, Wind Spirit, and Wind Surf—as well as three motor yachts that were previously part of the Silversea fleet: Star Pride, Star Legend, and Star Breeze. After a $250 million renovation, the Star Plus Class ships now offer all-suite accommodations for up to 312 guests, making your onboard experience both intimate and luxurious.
Ambiance: If your ideal cruise involves sharing memorable experiences with fellow travelers in a laid-back, convivial atmosphere, Windstar is your perfect match. Yes, Windstar’s charm is rooted in its warm, welcoming service and casual elegance, creating an ambiance that feels more like a private yacht than a traditional cruise.
Dining & Entertainment: As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar takes its culinary offerings seriously. Yes, you’ll savor fresh seasonal ingredients in the Amphora main dining room or indulge in themed culinary sailings featuring top chefs. On Star Class ships, enjoy dining at the newly added Cuadro 44 by Michelin-starred Chef Anthony Sasso for modern Spanish cuisine, or head to Star Grill by grilling master Steven Raichlen for global barbecue favorites. Entertainment onboard is relaxed and understated, with live music in the lounges and guest lecturers tailored to the itinerary.
Accommodations: There’s a notable difference in accommodations between Windstar’s wind-powered yachts and motor yachts. Yes, the motor yachts feature larger suites, with the smallest measuring 277 square feet, and the spacious Grand Owner’s Suite offering up to 1,374 square feet. On the sailing yachts, the staterooms are snugger but still thoughtfully designed, with oceanview rooms starting at 188 square feet. While balcony accommodations are available on the motor yachts, there are no balcony options on the Wind-Class ships.
Fares & Inclusions: Windstar offers both cruise-only and all-inclusive fare options. Fares range from $2,899 per person (or $3,522 all-inclusive) for a 7-day Mediterranean cruise on a Wind-Class ship to $5,559 per person ($6,845 all-inclusive) for a 14-day Tahitian Treasures & Magnificent Marquesas sailing on Star Breeze. Yes, booking all-inclusive includes Wi-Fi, gratuities, and unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails—making your experience even more effortless.
Best For: Couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers who prefer a relaxed, intimate cruise that takes them to more off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Caribbean, and South Pacific.