Cruise & Cruise Line

Windstar Cruises on a WAVE

Image: PHOTO: Windstar's Star-class ships. (Photo via Windstar Cruises)
Image: PHOTO: Windstar's Star-class ships. (Photo via Windstar Cruises)
by Ana Figueroa
Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Fri February 1, 2019

Windstar Cruises is on a WAVE, with special pricing and Star Perks bonuses. It's all part of the "Beyond Ordinary" savings event that makes small-ship cruising even more appealing.

The line's award-winning fleet of small ships can do what large cruise ships cannot. Namely, call on hidden harbors and hard-to-reach ports. Canada and New England voyages are one prime example.

Windstar cruises north from New York City to call on charming, historic towns set along stunning coastlines. Guests can visit the restored Gilded Age mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, home to the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Morgans.

Autumnal splendor comes to life at Acadia National Park in Maine. Quaint Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, is the setting for Anne of Green Gables. And rare blue and beluga whale sightings are an extra bonus off the Gaspé Peninsula on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River.

In addition to unique itineraries, Windstar cruises offer unmatched experiences on and off the ship. Guests enjoy a complimentary water sports program from the aft marina and an open bridge where they can visit the ship officers.

As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers highly engaging culinary-themed cruises. And every sailing features complimentary culinary demonstrations and James Beard Chef-designed dishes. "Shopping with the Chef" excursions to local markets are also available in select ports.

Windstar is also in the headlines for its $250 Million Star Plus Initiative. The multi-year project will affect every aspect of the guest experience.

The line's three Star-class vessels, Star Breeze, Star Legend and Star Pride will be stretched and reimagined. Capacity will increase from 212 to 312 and new engines will be installed. New public spaces will include two dining venues, new retail shops, a larger fitness center and a new spa. The work on the three ships will take place between October 2019 and November 2020 at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Italy.

The line will provide updates on the work, new experiences and new programs to launch with the Star Plus Initiative on a dedicated microsite set to launch soon. In the meantime, agents should take note of a new travel agency recognition program that awards top producers.

The multi-tier Club 180 provides client amenities; enhanced marketing and sales support (including advance notice on promotions and new product launches); priority service and special sailing perks for agents, such as complimentary Wi-Fi and laundry service.


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Ana Figueroa

Contributing Editor-Cruise

Ana Figueroa is a veteran travel industry writer based in Los Angeles. She's a former contributing editor for Travel Agent...

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