Small ship cruise operator Windstar Cruises is unique among the burgeoning field of cruise lines. Its tagline is “180 Degrees from Ordinary,” with a mission of providing guests a personalized and immersive experience. Let’s look at how Windstar delivers on this mission.

The Windstar Cruises Fleet

The Windstar fleet is six ships strong. The line falls into the boutique category, with each ship carrying fewer than 350 passengers in all-suite accommodations. With the ability to slip into smaller harbors that larger ships can’t reach, these small ships have the feel of a private yacht, yet they are large enough to offer guests pampering and entertainment.

The Windstar fleet is comprised of three ships each in two yacht styles: the Wind Class and the Star Plus Class. The Wind Class ships are small, motorized sailing ships with sails. Two of them, Wind Star and Wind Spirit, carry only 142 guests. The third, Wind Surf, carries 342 guests.

The Star Class ships, Star Pride, Star Legend, and Star Breeze, are all-suite ships that accommodate 312 guests each. Each yacht has its own personality, but all share the same warm and friendly ambiance.

Windstar’s Signature Sail Away is an exciting tradition. As the sails unfurl upon leaving a port, the strains of Vangelis’ 1492: Conquest of Paradise fill the air. It’s a powerful moment that evokes the feelings of courage and anticipation felt by seafaring explorers for hundreds of years.

Windstar Style – 180° From Ordinary

The vibe on board Windstar is elegant but relaxed and unpretentious. The staff is welcoming and genuine, calling guests by name and catering respectfully to every whim. There is an immersive approach, allowing guests to learn more and get closer to each destination through food, onboard lectures, and excursions. The intimate ambiance makes it easy to connect with fellow travelers.

Windstar allows guests a rare privilege in the cruising world – an Open Bridge policy. Guests can pop into the bridge and chat with the captain and officers on watch, view the navigational charts, and enjoy one of the best views on the ship.

Another special feature of Windstar ships is the Watersports Platform at the stern of each yacht. Consider it the gateway to your own personal aquatic playground outfitted with paddleboards, kayaks, trampoline, water ski boat, wakeboarding, tubing, and floatable water mats. Guests receive complimentary snorkeling gear to use for the entirety of the cruise.  

World-class dining is overseen by James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs. There are no formal nights, no assigned seating, and no set times for dinner. To ensure fresh and seasonal cuisine, the chef shops at local markets and fishmongers in the ports. In another out-of-the-ordinary experience, guests can tag along with the chef on a culinary market foray and watch culinary inspiration come to life. The Signature Onboard Barbeque and the fun crew show under the stars is a guest favorite.

Unforgettable Destinations

Windstar Cruises itineraries are designed to give guests the most time to enjoy the iconic ports and hidden harbors visited. Full-day calls, late departures, and even overnights let you watch the sunrise in Sydney, take in the nightlife in St. Barthélemy, or enjoy dinner ashore near the Celsus Library in Ephesus. There are typically few days at sea. Instead, itineraries focus on visiting exotic, hard-to-reach, and interesting places.

The six elegant Windstar yachts sail everywhere you want to go.

• Caribbean
• Canada and New England
• Mexico and Central America
• Panama Canal and Costa Rica
• Alaska and U.S. West Coast
• Tahiti and South Pacific
• Australia and New Zealand
• Asia  
• Mediterranean
• Northern Europe
• Holy Lands

With small, yacht-style ships, immersive itineraries, and a distinctive casual-upscale ambiance, Windstar Cruises does, indeed, deliver on “180 Degrees from Ordinary.” This is a terrific cruise for active and discerning travelers who enjoy getting to know their destinations, meeting locals, and seeking new experiences. If that sounds like you, contact the advisors at Covington to make Windstar your next vacation.