Windstar Cruises Profile

Sailing under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180º From Ordinary," Windstar offers 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 Ships

Carrying just 148 to 308 guests, Windstar ships exude a private yacht-like atmosphere creating camaraderie and lasting friendships between fellow sailors. Windstar ships are officially masted-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 led 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, and eclectic artwork are some of the extraordinary elements, which have become synonymous with Windstar. Other features unique to the Wind Surf include deluxe suites, a Business/Internet Center, The Bistro, and the WindSpa offering a full array of spa treatments, consultative, health and fitness programs.

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.

Dining

Windstar's award-winning Signature Cuisine consists of over 380 innovative recipes of acclaimed famous chef, Joachim Splichal, co-founder of the Patina Group in Los Angeles. These were created to heighten the cruise experience. He has provided ongoing consultation and training for Windstar's chefs, as well as created new recipes for the Wind Surf and its alternative, Splichal-inspired restaurant, The Bistro. The ''Splichal Signature'' approach to cuisine gives Windstar guests the most distinctive and satisfying gastronomical experience at sea.

Windstar observes an Open-Dining policy. You may eat anytime you want with whomever you want. A table for two? No problem. A table for twelve? No problem.

Staterooms

Passengers are cradled in comfort as all staterooms and suites offer ocean views, sitting area, TV, VCR, CD player, safe, mini-bar/refrigerator, international direct- dial phones, bathroom with toiletries, hair dryer, plush robes, and plenty 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 video titles and compact discs available for complimentary check-out.

Foremast Passenger Program

Windstar's Foremast Club rewards past Windstar Alumni with special discounts for future Windstar Cruises. Additionally, on select Foremast Sailings, Windstar alumni will not only receive special early booking discounts, but they will also receive a complimentary shore excursion in one of the ports included on that sailing.

Please note: If you are a Windstar Foremast Member, please let your Cruise Specialist know at the time of your reservation so we can make sure we check for possible discounts and complimentary upgrades. Past Passengers Discounts do not appear in online pricing on ANY travel website. If you want to book a Passenger Rate, you must speak to a live person.

Destinations and Activities

Windstar sails to tried and true destinations such as the Greek and Turkish Isles, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Virgin Islands, French Polynesia, Northern Europe, Baltic, Malta and Tunisia and Trans-Atlantic crossings.