aim of bringing together the freedom of sailing with the luxury of a resort vacation. More than 20 years later the line continues to prove what a success that formula is.
With three luxurious ships carrying just 148 to 312 guests—the Wind Spirit, Wind Star and Wind Surf—Windstar Cruises imparts to each passenger the feeling of sailing on a private yacht. For every two guests there is more than one staff member providing attentive personal service. On the wide open, teak decks, guests will find hidden nooks for private moments while feeling like they’re relaxing on their own veranda.
The ships’ small size allows them to sail into exotic locales and hidden harbors that larger ships cannot access, such as Capri, Italy; Portimao, Portugal; and Bequia, Grenadines. The ships dock at 100 ports of call, sailing in the Caribbean from November to March; Costa Rica from December to March; and Europe from April to November. Windstar offers six- to 14-day itineraries.
In addition to interesting ports of call, Windstar ships are noted for their casual elegance. Guests don’t need to pack jackets, ties or cocktail dresses. And passengers’ time is their own. They choose when and with whom to dine, and there’s plenty of time at sea uninterrupted by scheduled events.
Windstar’s ships feature a revolutionary design. They’re motor-sail-yachts, with billowing white sails that unfurl in two minutes at the push of a button. In addition, the line has recently enhanced the fleet with new luxury amenities, including Apple iPod Nanos and Bose SoundDock speakers, wireless Internet, luxury linens and mattresses, L’Occitane bath amenities and more. Other Windstar highlights include all oceanview staterooms and suites, a complimentary water sports program, progressive spa facilities, healthy and vegetarian dining options, and much more.