Star Explorer Maiden Voyage

 
Barcelona to Barcelona
Mon Dec 28, 2026 - Wed Jan 6, 2027,
 9 days
 on Star Explorer
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Starting from $6,199 USD
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Barcelona to Barcelona
Be one of the first passengers on an inaugural sailing of Windstar's newest yacht, Star Explorer, and cruise nine days along enchanting Spanish coastlines. Airy suites, delicious new cuisine, and welcoming spaces await your arrival. Ride bicycles past Roman ruins, imposing Gothic towers and Valencia's aromatic Central Market, or venture to a farm house to harvest fresh vegetables and cook up an authentic and delicious paella. Soar skyward aboard a cable car to Gibraltar's rocky summit and tour fortified tunnels with sweeping views of passing ships, churning Mediterranean and Atlantic waters, and looming African ridgelines. Admire Picasso paintings and linger late after sunset in Malaga, enjoying local musicians, robust red wines, and decadent, crispy calamari during an overnight port stay. Delve into Mallorca's shadowy Drach Caves as you board a boat to float across a tranquil underground lake, serenaded by live classical string melodies. To celebrate Star Explorer’s inaugural voyage, we will be announcing special inaugural events as the sailing date gets closer.
voyage map
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Day 1: Barcelona
The old meets the new in this sunny Catalan metropolis, where narrow alleyways contrast with grand boulevards, trendy cuisine meets homemade tapas, and everywhere you’re greeted by the warm, welcoming smiles of the fashionable locals. Don’t miss UNESCO sites like the mind-boggling architecture of Antoni Gaudí or La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, with its eight decorative spires soaring hundreds of feet into the sky.
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Day 2: Barcelona
The old meets the new in this sunny Catalan metropolis, where narrow alleyways contrast with grand boulevards, trendy cuisine meets homemade tapas, and everywhere you’re greeted by the warm, welcoming smiles of the fashionable locals. Don’t miss UNESCO sites like the mind-boggling architecture of Antoni Gaudí or La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, with its eight decorative spires soaring hundreds of feet into the sky.
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Day 3: Valencia
This captivating city is best when savored slowly. Although Valencia’s religious architecture is remarkable, and the Lonja, one of Europe’s most elegant buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take time for an optional experience — paella. You’ll learn the local secrets of this gastronomic masterpiece as you cook it, eat it, and toast it with the region’s perfectly matched local wines.

Want insider advice on where to find the tastiest restaurants, most unique local markets, authentic culinary shops, and hidden watering holes? Check out Valencia’s Local Dining Tip Curated by Saveur on our blog.

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Day 4: Cartagena
The walled town of Cartagena is a popular seaport with a large naval shipyard. The seashore offers a wide range of activities from windsurfing to good snorkeling to sailing. From Cartagena you can easily explore the ancient city of Murcia, the coastal resorts of Mazarrón, Cala Cortina, and Cabo de Palos or a little further north, the world famous resort of Mar Menor.
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Day 5: Gibraltar
It’s an odd bit of Britain here at the toe of Spain, with Barbary apes and miles of tunnels as well as traditional red phone boxes. Legend says Gibraltar was one of the two pillars erected by Hercules to mark the edge of the world. Take the cable car to the top to see if you can see it from here. No, that’s not it. That’s just Africa. What a view.
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Day 6: Málaga
Here, on the shores of Costa del Sol, the Andalusian spirit thrives. Be sure to include an optional visit to see the brilliant and comprehensive collection of Picasso’s work at Museo Picasso Málaga, a tribute to this artistic genius in the city of his birth. Or you may choose to opt for a visit to the beautiful village of Mijas, where picturesque Andalusian country life creates some of the world’s best wines. 
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Day 7: Málaga
Here, on the shores of Costa del Sol, the Andalusian spirit thrives. Be sure to include an optional visit to see the brilliant and comprehensive collection of Picasso’s work at Museo Picasso Málaga, a tribute to this artistic genius in the city of his birth. Or you may choose to opt for a visit to the beautiful village of Mijas, where picturesque Andalusian country life creates some of the world’s best wines. 
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Day 9: Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca is steep, green, and fringed with enticing coves and more than 200 lush beaches. But all that natural beauty is just the beginning. Stroll along the tree-shaded Paseo de Born in search of tapas. Shop for a Siurell; a traditional red, green, and white clay whistle dating back to the time of the Moors. Watch the street performers on the piazza around the church, or cross the island to beautiful Sóller. Not to be missed is the cultural landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Day 10: Barcelona
The old meets the new in this sunny Catalan metropolis, where narrow alleyways contrast with grand boulevards, trendy cuisine meets homemade tapas, and everywhere you’re greeted by the warm, welcoming smiles of the fashionable locals. Don’t miss UNESCO sites like the mind-boggling architecture of Antoni Gaudí or La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, with its eight decorative spires soaring hundreds of feet into the sky.
Popular Highlights
Gibraltar
In Gibraltar, you can explore the famous Rock of Gibraltar, visit the historic St. Michael's Cave, see the playful Barbary apes, and enjoy panoramic views of both the Mediterranean and Atlantic oceans.
Málaga
Enjoy the warm winter weather and stroll Pablo Picasso’s hometown of Málaga, where you can see his art at the Picasso museum.
New Year
Celebrate the New Year on Star Explorer and count down the New Year with a seafaring tradition as our oldest crew member rings out the previous year, and the youngest rings in the new one.
overnight in Barcelona
An overnight stay in Barcelona offers the chance to explore iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Família, stroll through the vibrant Las Ramblas, visit the historic Gothic Quarter, and enjoy the city's lively nightlife.
Valencia
Try a pan of paella in Valencia, the birthplace of this iconic dish
Itinerary at a Glance
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
MarinaWatersports Platform: 
Mon Dec 28
Barcelona
Arrive:  
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
Tue Dec 29
Barcelona
Arrive:  
Depart:  4:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Wed Dec 30
Valencia
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Thu Dec 31
Cartagena
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  3:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Fri Jan 1
Gibraltar
Arrive:  1:00 PM
Depart:  10:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Sat Jan 2
Málaga
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
Sun Jan 3
Málaga
Arrive:  
Depart:  6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Mon Jan 4
AT SEA
Arrive:  
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
Tue Jan 5
Palma de Mallorca
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Wed Jan 6
Barcelona
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
Accommodations & Pricing
Oceanview Suite
Oceanview Suite
Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality in this thoughtfully designed 203-square-foot suite. The well-planned layout creates an ideal retreat with plenty of natural light, a view of the sea, a walk-in mosaic glass shower and an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twins if desired), perfect for unwinding after a day of fun and exploration.
? Cruise only from $6,199 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $7,090 per guest
Infinity Suite
Infinity Suite
This 280-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window that allows for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Your suite features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired), a walk-in mosaic glass shower and a comfortable living area where you can lounge and enjoy the view.
? Cruise only from $6,549 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $7,440 per guest
Vista Infinity Suite
Vista Infinity Suite
Located on deck 7, this 280-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window that allows for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Your suite features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired), a walk-in mosaic glass shower and a comfortable living area where you can lounge and enjoy the view.
? Cruise only from $6,699 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $7,590 per guest
Veranda Suite
Veranda Suite
Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you to this 225-square-foot suite. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $7,399 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $8,290 per guest
Premier Veranda Suite
Premier Veranda Suite
 Located at the middle of the ship, these 225-square-foot suites welcome you with stylish comfort and beautiful ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $7,749 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $8,640 per guest
Triple Infinity Suite
Triple Infinity Suite
This roomy 301-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window in the bedroom, allowing for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. This suite also features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and a pull-out sofa in the separate living area, allowing for triple occupancy. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $7,899 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $8,790 per guest
Triple Premier Veranda Suite
Triple Premier Veranda Suite
Located on deck 6, this 246-square-foot suite welcomes you with stylish comfort and stunning ocean views. Featuring an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and a pull-out sofa in the living area, the suite allows for triple occupancy. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $7,899 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $8,790 per guest
Vista Veranda Suite
Vista Veranda Suite
Located on deck 7, this 268-square-foot suite welcomes you with stylish comfort and stunning ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $7,999 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $8,890 per guest
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
This 288-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed and its own sliding glass door with balcony access, while the bathroom includes a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $9,299 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $10,190 per guest
Classic Suite
Classic Suite
Step into a stylish and bright open living area with a spacious adjacent bedroom. This 353-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed that can be converted into two twins if desired, while the bathroom includes a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $10,299 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $11,190 per guest
Star Suite
Star Suite
Step into a stylish and bright open living area with a spacious adjacent bedroom. This 380-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and its own sliding glass door with balcony access, while the bathroom includes a bathtub and walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
? Cruise only from $10,799 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $11,690 per guest
Horizon Owner’s Suite
Horizon Owner’s Suite
This luxurious 548-square-foot suite combines floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around balcony for an unparalleled cruising experience. Perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner, the wrap-around balcony adds 248 square feet of space and offers unobstructed views of the sea. The suite boasts a separate entryway — as well as separate dining and living areas — and a guest powder room. The bedroom includes an inviting king bed (convertible into two XL twin beds if desired), and the bathroom features a luxurious double walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets. For family bookings, the adjacent suite can be combined to provide extra bedrooms and space for entertaining.
? Cruise only from $11,999 per guest
? All-inclusive price from $12,890 per guest
The Windstar Life
The Windstar staff-to-guest ratio is 1:1.5, and it shows.The moment you board you’ll feel it: an ever-attentive crew at your service, providing you with what you want and need, when you want and need it.
Friendly and Relaxed Atmosphere
Signature Onboard Barbecue
Cooking Demonstrations
Genuine and Thoughtful Crew
Crew Talent Show
Open Bridge
Local and Live Performances
Relax at the Pool or Hot Tub
Complimentary 24 Hour Room Service
Signature Sail Away
Shopping With The Chef
Take In The Sun
Marina
*Select voyages
Enjoy regionally inspired treatments at World Spa by Windstar
Relax With A Morning Yoga Session
ALL DATES &
FARES
Great cruise-only fares or make it an all-inclusive voyage with Wi-Fi, unlimited select beer, wine, and cocktails, and gratuities. From $99 per guest per day.
Date
Ship
All-Inclusive
From
Cruise Only
From
Mon, Dec 28 - Wed, Jan 6, 2027
STAR EXPLORER
$7,090
$6,199
THIS
SAILING