Overview
Is Windstar Cruises right for you?
Windstar is small-ship cruising at its most charming. Its fleet mixes iconic sailing yachts — where actual sails unfurl to the strains of Vangelis as you leave port — with intimate all-suite motor yachts, none carrying more than about 342 guests. That size unlocks tiny, storybook harbors (the Greek Isles, the Amalfi Coast, Tahiti, hidden Caribbean coves) that mega-ships simply can’t enter. The style is casually luxurious: no formal nights, an open-bridge policy, a fold-out watersports marina, and a warm, low-key atmosphere. Culinary experiences are strong through a James Beard Foundation partnership.
Who it’s best for
- Travelers who want small-ship intimacy
- Boutique ports and hidden harbors
- Relaxed, casual luxury (no formal nights)
- Watersports lovers (fold-out marina)
Popular ships
Wind Surf / Wind Star / Wind Spirit
The iconic sailing yachts — masts and billowing sails, carrying 148–342 guests.
Star Breeze / Legend / Pride
All-suite motor yachts (~312 guests) with a casually elegant feel.
The Marina
Every ship’s fold-out watersports platform for kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming right off the yacht.
Cabin recommendations
Motor yachts
The Star-class ships are all-suite — great space for the category. Ask about balcony suites on these.
Sailing yachts
On the sail ships, cozy ocean-view staterooms are part of the classic yacht charm; there are few balconies by design.
Special occasions
Owner’s suites offer standout space and views for a milestone sailing.
Dining
Refined and flexible with no assigned times. AmphorA is the elegant main dining room; Candles offers alfresco grilled dinners under the stars; the Yacht Club and Veranda cover casual meals. Windstar’s James Beard Foundation partnership brings elevated menus and occasional themed sailings. A signature “Destination Discovery” beach barbecue is a highlight.
Entertainment
Deliberately low-key: local musicians and cultural performers brought aboard in port, a small lounge with live music, an open-bridge policy to chat with the captain, and the watersports marina. The destinations and the intimate atmosphere are the entertainment — not big production shows.
What’s included
- Small-ship access to boutique ports
- Watersports marina (kayaks, paddleboards, swimming)
- Open-bridge policy and casual, no-formal-nights style
- James Beard-inspired dining and beach barbecues
- Pools/hot tubs, fitness and spa
Windstar Cruises FAQs
Size and style. With under ~342 guests, Windstar reaches tiny harbors the big ships can’t — and its sailing yachts literally raise sails as you leave port. It’s casual luxury: no formal nights, an open bridge, a watersports marina and a warm, intimate feel.
Some are — the Wind-class yachts have real masts and sails (computer-assisted) that unfurl dramatically leaving port. The Star-class ships are all-suite motor yachts. Both are small and intimate; we’ll match the ship to your itinerary and taste.
Not fully, but it offers an optional “All-In” package bundling Wi-Fi, gratuities and a beverage package. Base fares include dining and the watersports marina. We’ll price out whether the package makes sense for how you travel.