Welcome to the world of Windstar– a world of casual elegance and unparalleled beauty. Set sail for the crystalline-blue waters of captivating Belize, share an intimate view of Santorini's majestic cliffs, or put in at tiny Caribbean ports too small for ordinary cruise ships. Perhaps this is the year you’ll discover the many treasures of Europe – from the legendary beauty of Portofino and Marseille to the sun-drenched beaches of the Greek Islands. No matter where your voyage may lead, count on Windstar to grant your every wish. Including an experience that’s 180° from ordinary.
Pull up a chair. You are about to embark on an extraordinary adventure. The afternoon is fading toward sunset, magic hour, in Papeete or St. Thomas or another gorgeous place, and Windstar is preparing to sail. Below on the pier are the people who’ve turned out to see this beautiful ship – so different from the others in the harbor.
Up above, masts soar skyward; it’s showtime, and the curtain – white sails! – is about to rise. An officer hurries from the bridge with last-minute adjustments while the first lovely notes of music are heard over the speakers up on deck. The white sails snap in the breeze and fill and… Windstar is off ! (Look for dolphins as we head to open water. They like surfing the ship’s wake. You’ll see a streak of gray underwater and then – two, three, four – all curving into the air at once.) What’s off the rail? Capri, Amalfi, Lisbon, Mykonos or St. Thomas. What’s ahead? Magic. This could be the week you discover an island, a beach, your new favorite café, your old favorite self.
Onboard Windstar, the course of true love always runs smoothly. Our relaxed attitude, beautiful surroundings and pampering service help see to that. And whether you're sailing through the dazzling blue lagoons of Tahiti or dancing under the stars in the Caribbean, it's impossible not to fall hopelessly in love all over again. All cruises offer Romance Under Sail, an unforgettable way to celebrate a wedding, a birthday or even another month together - in carefree Windstar luxury. Celebrate your new marriage with a romantic "Picnic for Two" on the beach. (A jambon buerre with a bottle of wine on the Cote d'Azur? A Greek salad and grape leaves on the shores of Mykonos? Fresh fish and rum under the coconut trees in Barbados? Such a delicious dilemma.)
If your special occasion happens to be ananniversary, dancing under the stars with Bora Bora as your backdrop, will surely rekindle the passion. If you or someone you know has reason to celebrate, ask your travel professional to tell you more about Romance Under Sail (some packages or gift items are available at an additional charge). From special pampering on board to exclusive shore excursions for two, count on Windstar to offer an experience you'll cherish, heart and soul.
A Unique Concept in Cruising:
Sailing under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180º From Ordinary," Windstar was created in the mid-1980's with the vision to offer an alternative to the typical cruise or resort vacation. The Windstar passenger sees the world from a romantic sailing ship with luxurious accommodations, a casual yet elegant atmosphere, and exquisite service and cuisine.
Windstar's ships are officially motor-sail-yachts (msy), but the designation belies the vessels unique rigging. Unfurling in two minutes at the push of a button, billowing white sails reach to the sky. All functions are operated from the bridge by computer micro-chips and navigational devices. The unusual "open-bridge" operation allows guests to drop by and acquaint themselves with the veteran captains and officers who demonstrate the ship's intriguing capabilities to modern day explorers.
Shipboard Life Windstar's unique concept of sailing has lead the cruise industry in the luxury small ship, casual attire, and alternative dining arenas. Pioneering and refining these concepts has earned Windstar an excellent reputation and market niche, winning the allegiance of a new generation of contemporary cruise vacationers, one-third of whom are first-time cruisers.
Teak decking, rich wood interiors, an attentive service staff, intimate surroundings, eclectic artwork, exceptional signature cuisine featuring both light and vegetarian menu selections, and an extensive wine list are some of the extraordinary elements which have become synonymous with Windstar. Features unique to the Wind Surf include 31 deluxe suites, a Business/Internet Center, The Bistro, The Terrace Bar for small intimate getaways and the nearly 10,000 square foot WindSpa offering a full array of spa treatments, consultative, health and fitness programs.
Passengers are cradled in comfort as all staterooms and suites offer ocean views, sitting area, new LCD flatscreen TV, DVD, CD player, safe, mini-bar/refrigerator, international direct-dial phones, bathroom with luxurious pampering toiletries, hair dryer, plush terry clothe robes, and an abundance of closet space. The library on board stocks an array of international newspapers, books and games, as well as a multi-media selection of more than 500 DVD titles and compact discs available for complimentary check-out.
Carrying just 148 to 308 guests, Windstar ships exude a private-yacht-like atmosphere creating camaraderie and lasting friendships between fellow sailors. Every day aboard Windstar brings the promise of new horizons and harbors to explore.
An interesting mix of shore excursions and complimentary water sports activities are available at each destination. Passengers may find themselves slicing through Caribbean waters aboard an actual America's Cup racing yacht, or exploring archaeological ruins in Greece, the "Cradle of Civilization." Water buffs can enjoy complimentary water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, kayaking and "banana" boat rides from the ship's aft Water Sports Platform.
Windstar Cruises operates the 308-passenger Wind Surf and 148- passenger Wind Star and Wind Spirit. The three sailing yachts cruise to over 47 countries worldwide offering an affordable luxury vacation, combining the refinement of a luxury hotel with a moveable feast of cultural experiences.
