Small Ship MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

Time is measured in centuries, not minutes. Cities are shaped by sun and volcanoes. And the border between myth and reality fades like footprints on a Riviera beach. Surrounded by wonders like the Cinque Terre and Parthenon, Meteora and the Sistine Chapel, Lake Como and the azure landscapes of Croatia, it’s easy to believe there is something magical at work here. Something that kisses grapes and transforms them into divine wine, turns marble ruins to gold in the last light of day, and gifts you with a beautiful white yacht to see it all

IN ALMOST EVERY Mediterranean port you’ll find incredible history, to-die-for cuisine, exceptional art and architecture, and rich cultural traditions. The trick is getting the most out of your visit and designing itineraries specifically to accomplish this is an area where Windstar excels. Our port-intensive itineraries are designed to show you both the big cities and more overlooked places — from authentic working-class towns where tourism is an afterthought to small ports favored by yachtsmen. And when we do visit major cities, our small yachts dock closer to historic town centers. Late night and evening stays expand your time for exploration, and carefully crafted small-group excursions get right to the heart of local culture with insightful market tours, tastings, village and home visits, and more.

Take advantage of exclusive experiences like attending the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo or transiting the narrow Corinth Canal, too small for larger ships

Choose from a wide variety of Cruise Tours offering you the best sights on land as well as sea — everything from Meteora to Douro Valley vineyards to Lake Como.

Wander through the dreamy medieval Old Town on pedestrians-only alleyways past historic homes, hidden squares, stone churches, boutiques and restaurants. Climb to the fortress on the hill for breathtaking views of the mountain forests that cover much of the landscape. Side trips visit villages in the countryside. A late-night stay affords sunset viewing from a restaurant terrace — sipping the Montenegrin red wine Vranac while sampling local specialties

Take a horse carriage from the Medina to the lovely and colorful Majorelle Gardens, designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle in a palette of bright Berber colors. Watch a folkloric performance over a Moroccan lunch, then head to Bahia Palace with its magnificent Andalusian and Moorish architecture. End the day exploring the labyrinth of souks and Djemaa El Fna Square, where snake charmers and fortune tellers have been at work since the 11th century.