press releases

2024 Press Releases

11/18/2024  Windstar Cruises Announces Popular “Pick Your Perk” Offer for Cruises Through June 2026
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, a leader in small ship luxury cruising, has announced the return of its popular “Pick Your Perk” offer, now available throughout the festive season (including Black Friday/Cyber Monday) as well as the prime cruise and travel booking months occurring each year January through March.

11/14/2024  Windstar Cruises Launches New Cruise & Overwater Bungalow Packages Inspired By "The Golden Bachelorette" Finale, Now Streaming On HULU
Papeete, French Polynesia - Windstar Cruises invites couples to rekindle romance and create lasting memories with an exclusive second honeymoon experience inspired by “The Golden Bachelorette,” now streaming on Hulu. Embark on your own journey to find romance in Tahiti with new air + hotel + cruise packages that immerse couples in the magic of Tahiti, blending adventure and relaxation for an unforgettable romantic escape.

11/12/2024  Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend Sails to Cannes for Two Days at ILTM
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises’ 312-guest Star Legend will again be welcoming top travel advisors, media, and partners at ILTM Cannes, the world’s leading luxury travel trade show, on December 3 and 4 in France.

10/24/2024  WINDSTAR CRUISES, AIR TAHITI NUI, AND THE ISLANDS OF TAHITI SET THE STAGE FOR LOVE ON “THE GOLDEN BACHELORETTE”
Papeete, French Polynesia - Romantic small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises and the leading carrier to French Polynesia, Air Tahiti Nui, are proud to be part of Joan Vassos’ journey in finding her second chance at love on the first ever season of “The Golden Bachelorette” in the lush tropical paradise of The Islands of Tahiti.

10/21/2024  Bad Gleichenberg Tourism School, One of Europe’s Top Hospitality Programs, Awards Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog ‘Styrian Tourism Panther’
Bad Gleichenberg - Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog received the Styrian Tourism Panther Award for International Achievement on October 17, 2024. The Austrian award, which is the Styrian region’s highest tourism honor, is in its sixth year and is bestowed by the Bad Gleichenberg Tourism School to honor designers, visionaries, and pioneers of tourism for their success in the hospitality industry.

10/15/2024  Wind Surf Readies for Major Renovations
MIAMI, FL - The flagship of small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises, is preparing for Phase 1 of extensive renovations taking place in Cadiz, Spain this November.

10/03/2024  Windstar Cruises Partners with The Latin Recording Academy®
MIAMI, FL – The award-winning small ship cruise line furthers commitment to the arts as presenting sponsor of Latin GRAMMY® Week’s Special Awards Presentation

10/02/2024  Windstar Cruises Promotes Stijn Creupelandt to COO; Paul Barrett, VP of Marine & Technical Operations to Retire
MIAMI, FL – Windstar Cruises has announced the promotion of Stijn Creupelandt to the position of chief operating officer (COO). Paul Barrett, the company’s vice president of marine & technical operations, announces his retirement to take effect in April 2025.

09/10/2024  Windstar Cruises' Top Sailings & Savings for Last-Minute Fall Travel
MIAMI, FL – Best sail escapes of the season: Popular destinations, cooler weather + seasonal savings

09/04/2024  Itineraries Are Open to Book Aboard Windstar Cruises’ New Star Seeker Ship
MIAMI, FL – Caribbean, Alaska and Japan cruises offered in 2026

08/29/2024  Three Marquesas Mayors Join Windstar Cruises to Celebrate New UNESCO World Heritage Designation
MIAMI, FL - Windstar is commemorating the moment by offering a celebration cruise departing September 26 hosted by Windstar’s French Polynesian Attaché Hironui Johnston, along with three Marquesas Islands mayors.

08/27/2024  Windstar Cruises Presents Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg with ASTA Icon Award
MIAMI, FL – Windstar Cruises is pleased to announce that it has awarded Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg, Head of Travel Policy for Chase Travel, with the ASTA Icon Award.

08/21/2024  FIRST LOOK: Windstar’s Brand-New Star Seeker
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises is unveiling a first look at its Star Seeker – a 224-guest, brand-new ship that will debut in January of 2026.

08/06/2024  Windstar Cruises Announces 2026 European Voyages
MIAMI, FL - 15 brand-new itineraries, 34 first-time ports, a litany of new Star Collector sailings (which combine several itineraries into one epic/longer adventure), and a first-ever Windstar Solar Eclipse.

08/05/2024  Windstar Cruises Appoints Jason Grant New Vice President of Information Technology
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises has announced the appointment of Jason Grant as Vice President of Information Technology. In this role, Grant will oversee Windstar’s global shoreside and shipboard IT functions while leading the company’s IT strategy, leading the development and implementation of technology, innovation, and performance.

07/30/2024  Windstar Cruises to Celebrate 40 Years of Small Ship Sailing
MIAMI, FL – Windstar Cruises will commemorate its 40th anniversary season starting in October of 2024.

07/23/2024  Windstar Launches Revelex Integration
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises is investing in technology to make it easier for travel advisors to do business with the small ship line, today announcing a new integration with its first booking engine partner - Revelex.

07/15/2024  Windstar Launches 'Christmas in July' Sales Event from July 17-31
MIAMI, FL - On Windstar European cruises from now until March 2025, guests receive a complimentary upgrade to the line’s All-Inclusive fares, which includes onboard Wi-Fi, all gratuities, and unlimited wine, beer, and cocktails. In addition to the free upgrade, guests enjoy a shore excursion credit of up to $500 per person, a 10% double discount for Yacht Club Members (Windstar’s returning guests usually receive a 5% savings), and reduced deposits for 2024 sailings.

07/09/2024  Windstar's Itineraries + Star Legend Yacht to Star in Episode of 'Traveling with Denella Ri'chard'
MIAMI, FL - Can a yacht win a major television award? Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises’ 312-passenger, all-suite Star Legend is going to give it a try by making its debut on the Traveling with Denella Ri’chard critically acclaimed television series. The Windstar-centric episode will begin airing on July 13.

07/08/2024  Windstar Honors Top Virtuoso Travel Advisors
MIAMI, FL - Fifty Virtuoso® Cruise Icons disembarked last week from Windstar Cruises’ 312-guest, all-suite Star Breeze in French Polynesia, completing a celebratory trip personally hosted by Windstar President Christopher Prelog aimed at relaxing, networking, and experiencing Windstar’s iconic small ship sailing style in storied French Polynesia.

07/02/2024  Windstar Extends Sail Beyond Ordinary Promotion + Adds New Incentives and New Dates for 2025
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises is extending and expanding its popular Sail Beyond Ordinary promotion which offers customers a free All-Inclusive package on 2024 voyages featuring onboard Wi-Fi, all gratuities, and unlimited wine, beer, and cocktails. New dates for sailings through March 31, 2025 have also been added to the promotion.

07/01/2024  Windstar Cruises Now Booking in Canadian Dollars
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises wishes its Canadian advisors a Happy Canada Day with news it’s now providing a Canada-centered booking process in order to provide better service and value for Canadian guests.

06/14/2024  Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog Receives TravelAge West Excellence in Leadership Award
MIAMI, FL – Windstar also won the award for Best Travel Advisor Support for Small Ship Cruises.

06/10/2024  Windstar Cruises Reveals New Ship, Star Seeker, Will Bring Back Routes of Alaska and Japan in 2026
MIAMI, FL – Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises revealed today it’s planning to send its newest ship, Star Seeker, cruising to Alaska and Japan when it joins the fleet in 2026.

05/23/2024  Windstar Cruises Unveils 2025 & 2026 Winter Mediterranean Sailings
MIAMI, FL – Along with the opening of new sailings, Windstar is pairing an Early Booking Offer which includes a $200 onboard credit per stateroom plus a complimentary upgrade to All-Inclusive Fares.

04/29/2024  Windstar Cruises Celebrates Travel Advisors in May with Four Free Cruise Giveaways and Bonus Commission
MIAMI, FL - May 1 is National Travel Advisor Appreciation Day, and small ship line Windstar Cruises is celebrating with exclusive perks and new programs that last beyond the month of May. Windstar knows that behind every seamless vacation is a dedicated travel advisor who deserves special appreciation for making it all happen.

04/22/2024  Windstar Cruises Expands Guest Services with New Leadership Appointments; Introduces ‘Vacation Planning’ Department
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises is expanding and rebranding the company’s Guest Services department, including announcing the appointments of Jaymi Fiveash as Senior Director of Vacation Planning and Andrew Ironstone as Director of Outbound Consumer Sales.

04/10/2024  Windstar Cruises Welcomes Two New Ships to Fleet Including First Star Class Newbuild
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, a leader in small-ship luxury cruising, is excited to announce the expansion of its fleet with the addition of two all-suite motor yachts, Star Seeker and Star Explorer. The first of the two ships, new-build Star Seeker which is currently being constructed in the WestSEA shipyard, is expected to be delivered in December of 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December, 2026.

03/26/2024  Windstar Cruises Celebrates 10 Year Partnership with the James Beard Foundation
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, a leader in small ship luxury cruising, is excited to mark the 10th Anniversary of its partnership with the James Beard Foundation® in 2025 - expanding their series of yearly themed culinary sailings. To further commemorate this milestone, Windstar will be welcoming five distinguished “All-Star” chefs, four who have previously sailed with the cruise line as part of the ground-breaking partnership and are guest favorites.

03/19/2024  Windstar Cruises and Pacific Beachcomber Announce New Collaboration
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, the leader in small ship cruising in French Polynesia, today announces a new collaboration with Pacific Beachcomber, luxury operator of seven hotels in French Polynesia, including InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG), Maitai Hotels, and The Brando.

03/01/2024  Windstar Cruises Announces Thrilling, First-Ever ‘Mystery Cruise’ Set to Depart in 2025
Windstar Cruises, a leader in small ship luxury cruising, is excited to announce its first-ever “President’s Mystery Cruise” set to depart on April 19, 2025.

02/06/2024  Star Breeze takes over French Polynesia Sailings
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, the leader in small ship cruising in Tahiti with more than 36 years of experience in the region, has introduced the all-suite, 312-guest Star Breeze, replacing Wind Spirit, as the new year-round ship in Tahiti and French Polynesia.

01/17/2024  Windstar’s First-Ever Winter Sailings in the Mediterranean Exceed Expectations
MIAMI, FL - After pivoting to a first-ever winter cruise season in the Mediterranean this year, Windstar Cruises’ has announced its intent to keep Star Legend sailing in the region for another winter season, providing our guests with the opportunity to explore Europe and the Mediterranean’s allure year-round.

2023 Press Releases

12/20/2023  Windstar Cruises Wins Coveted “Best Suites at Sea” at Cruise Ship Interiors Awards 2023
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, a leader in small ship luxury cruising, proudly announces its latest triumph - securing the esteemed Cruise Ship Interior Awards 2023 “Best Suites at Sea” accolade for The Broadmoor and Sea Island specialty suites onboard two of its three Star Plus Class yachts. The suites were recognized as the best suites on small ships.

12/19/2023  Windstar Pours on New Wine Experiences for Select 2024 Itineraries
MIAMI, FL – As part of an ongoing commitment to unique epicurean experiences at sea, small ship line Windstar Cruises has announced the addition of curated wines to some of the line's most unique itineraries in 2024.

12/05/2023  Multi-Million Dollar Initiative Begins for Windstar Cruises' Three Iconic Wind Class Ships
MIAMI, FL - Afficionados of Windstar Cruises' original three classic sailing yachts - 148-guest Wind Star and Wind Spirit and 342-guest Wind Surf - will be happy to learn the award-winning small ship cruise line is embarking on a multi-million dollar initiative to redesign and update all three yachts.

12/04/2023  Windstar Cruises Brings Back Popular "Pick Your Perk" Holiday Savings Offer
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, a leader in small ship luxury cruising, has announced its popular holiday season sale – Pick Your Perk. For a limited time, guests who book voyages with Windstar Cruises can enjoy exceptional savings and customized experiences while traveling to iconic destinations around the globe.

11/15/2023  Windstar Cruises Expands Global Footprint to South America
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises is expanding its global reach with first-time cruises in South America beginning in December of 2025 on board all-suite yacht Star Pride. The diversification to the region creates new opportunities for the small ship cruise line's well-traveled guests to experience buck-list destinations, like Machu Picchu in Peru and Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, allowing Windstar's guests to enjoy the uncrowded and unpretentious style they are well known for.

11/07/2023  Windstar Cruises and Coral Gardeners Partnership Celebrates One Year Anniversary
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises, a leader in small ship cruising, celebrates the one-year anniversary of its partnership with Coral Gardeners, a Moorea (French Polynesia)-based organization determined to revolutionize ocean conservation and create a global movement to save the coral reefs through reef restoration, awareness activities, and innovative solutions.

11/06/2023  Sell One & Sail Free in Europe this Winter / Spring
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises' first-ever winter and holiday itineraries in Europe are now available for booking, and on top of low pricing from just $1,399 per person, Windstar has added a new offer for travel advisors: Sell One & Sail Free.

10/24/2023  Windstar Cruises to Set Sail on a Unprecedented 2023/2024 Winter Season in Europe
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises has announced its new winter and holiday sailing itineraries from December 2023 to April 2024, offering travelers the opportunity to discover iconic ports like Barcelona, Nice, Florence/Livorno , Marseille, and Rome in an entirely different light aboard the award-winning all-suite, 312-guest, Star Legend.

10/23/2023  Windstar Makes it Easier Than Ever to Grow Your Group Sales
MIAMI, FL – Windstar Cruises has announced a new groups program that makes it easier than ever for travel advisor partners to earn a tour conductor credit (AKA sail for free) and grow their business

09/26/2023  Christopher Prelog Marks Three Year Milestone as President of Windstar Cruises
MIAMI, FL - This week Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog celebrates three years of leading the small ship cruise line - commemorating a remarkable tenure that began in the depths of the pandemic.

09/19/2023  Windstar Cruises Announces 2024 James Beard Foundation Guest Chefs & Sailing Dates
MIAMI, FL - Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has announced its lineup of James Beard Foundation - affiliated guest chefs for its series of three themed culinary cruises in 2024.

09/14/2023  Windstar Cruises Announces Deployment through Winter 2025/26
MIAMI, FL – Notable are new season-long sailings in the Canary Islands, first-ever Cruise Tours in the Middle East, and two new Cruise Tours in Tahiti.

07/11/2023  Janet Bava Announced Chief Commercial Officer
MIAMI, FL – Windstar Cruises, a luxury yacht-style cruise line based in Miami, is pleased to announce two important leadership changes. Janet Bava will be Windstar Cruises’ new Chief Commercial Officer as of July 24, 2023. Betsy O’Rourke, the CCO for Windstar since 2020 and the CCO of Windstar’s parent company Xanterra Travel Collection since 2012, will move to a consultancy role with Xanterra and its ownership, The Anschutz Corporation, as well as engage in outside Board opportunities.

05/09/2023  Windstar Cruises Announces Deployment through Summer 2025
MIAMI, FL -- Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has released its sailing schedule through summer of 2025, with several key deployment moves for its fleet of six ships including three all-suite motor yachts and three classic sailing yachts.

03/27/2023  WIndstar Adds Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Experience
MIAMI, FL -- Windstar Cruises has added a new Formula 1® experience for its guests at the final race of the 2023 season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November

03/14/2023  Windstar Cruises Announces New Whole-Food, Plant Based Menu
MIAMI, FL -- Windstar Cruises has partnered with the National Health Association (NHA) to create a new vegan menu on board all six of the small ship line’s yachts. The offerings are not only plant-based but also prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar and are gluten-free.

03/07/2023  Windstar Cruises Lifts Covid Vaccine Requirement
Windstar Cruises will lift its COVID-19 vaccine requirement on June 1, 2023, no longer requiring guests to be vaccinated against the virus in order to sail with the small ship cruise line.

02/13/2023  Windstar Cruises to Launch High-Speed Starlink Internet
MIAMI, FL -- Windstar Cruises has announced the launch of its Starlink Maritime high-speed, advanced broadband satellite internet capabilities.

02/08/2023  Windstar Cruises Hires Vice President of Finance
Windstar Cruises has hired Alfonso Robles as the line’s new vice president of finance.

01/17/2023  Windstar Cruises Names Joe Jiffo Director of Field Sales
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises has named Joe Jiffo as the new director of field sales, where he is responsible for guiding the small ship cruise line’s North America field sales team and inside sales team, with a key focus on increasing brand awareness in the travel advisor community and connecting with our trade partners.

01/10/2023  New Themed Suites on Windstar Cruises
The two specialty suites are inspired by Windstar’s Forbes Five-Star sister companies The Broadmoor and Sea Island and will be rolled out to Windstar’s two other Star Plus Class yachts next: Star Breeze in spring of 2023 and Star Pride in 2024.

2022 Press Releases

12/13/2022  Windstar Cruises Expands Culinary Team Expertise
MIAMI, FL - Small ship luxury cruise line Windstar Cruises has hired two new professionals to its corporate culinary team. Bjoern Wassmuth has been hired as culinary director, and Eric Le Rouzic as corporate executive pastry chef.

11/22/2022  Small Ship Line Windstar Cruises’ Star Breeze Makes First Call in Australia in Sydney
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises’ 312-passenger, all-suite Star Breeze yacht makes its first-ever call in Australia today in Sydney, where it will embark on a 13-day privately chartered cruise to Melbourne, arriving on December 4.

11/16/2022  Windstar Announces Wave Season Deal + Thankful for Travel
MIAMI, FL - Miami headquartered Windstar Cruises has solidified its offering for “wave season,” when the best cruise deals are rolled out for customers to book for the year ahead.

11/03/2022  Betsy O’Rourke Appointed Chief Commercial Officer of Windstar Cruises; Dianna Rom Promoted to Vice President of Sales
MIAMI, FL, November 3, 2022 - Windstar Cruises announced two new appointments to its leadership team.

10/18/2022  Windstar Cruises Partners with Coral Gardeners in Tahiti
MIAMI, FL, October 18, 2022 – The three-year partnership begins this month with Windstar’s $35,000 donation to Coral Gardeners to adopt coral for all guests sailing with Windstar in French Polynesia for the remainder of 2022.

10/05/2022  Windstar Cruises Unveils New Shipboard Mural from Miami Artists we are nice'n easy
MIAMI, FL – Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises is thrilled to debut the first of three onboard murals as part of a collaboration with Miami-based Fountainhead Arts.

09/28/2022  Windstar Announces Chefs for 2023 James Beard Foundation® Culinary Themed Cruises
MIAMI, FL - The trio of acclaimed visiting chefs include D.C.’s Jerome Grant; New York’s Ayesha Nurdjaja; and Boston’s Tracy Chang.

09/23/2022  Hotel Service Fees to Increase on January 1, 2023
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises will implement a rate increase for its Hotel Service Charges on cruises embarking on or after January 1, 2023.

08/23/2022  Windstar Cruises Adds Arabia to 2023/2024 Sailing Schedule
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises’ small ships are known for sailing to luxurious and off-the-beaten-path ports around the world. The full breadth of sailings is highlighted best in their new brochure, available to order or access online today, including the line’s newest offering: cruises to the Red Sea and Persian Gulf – a first for the luxury cruise line.

08/18/2022  Windstar Cruises Eliminates Pre-Cruise COVID-19 Tests
MIAMI, FL – Windstar Cruises has revised its COVID-19 protocols and procedures which will go into effect for cruises departing on or after Sept. 6, 2022.

08/09/2022  Beach Fun & Sun: Windstar Cruises Reveals New Caribbean and Central America Cruises
MIAMI, FL – Windstar Cruises has just the thing to shake off the winter blahs. The small ship cruise line has drawn up a new beach bum’s delight of an itinerary beginning winter of 2023. Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway has seven days on some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean including stops in St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Barts, Anguilla, Jost Van Dyke (overnight), Virgin Gorda, and Tortola.

08/04/2022  Windstar Cruises Promotes Dianna Rom to Senior Director of Sales
U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises has promoted Dianna Rom to senior director of sales, leading the domestic and international sales team for the Windstar brand.

06/30/2022  Windstar Cruises Celebrates New Miami Office
MIAMI, FL - Windstar Cruises celebrated its new headquarters office in Doral, Miami with a party yesterday. The line moved its office across the country from Seattle, WA, where it had been previously headquartered.

06/20/2022  Windstar Celebrates 35 Years in the Tropical Paradise of Tahiti
MIAMI, FL – Star Breeze will sail on additional itineraries in Tahiti in October and year-round beginning in 2024

06/09/2022  Windstar Cruises’ Reimagined Star Pride Makes Debut in Greece
Star Pride is the third and final of Windstar’s Star Plus Class yachts to emerge from Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard following a complex lengthening and transformation project.

05/17/2022  Windstar Cruises Cancels Asia and Adds Tahiti Sailings
MIAMI, FL, Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has cancelled its scheduled cruises in Asia for fall of 2022, citing the continued uncertainty regarding ports reopening in the region.

04/27/2022  Windstar Cruises Partners with Miami Arts Organization Fountainhead Arts for Shipboard Murals
Windstar Cruises has partnered with Fountainhead Arts to commission local artists to paint murals on each of the three Star Plus Class yachts, as well as in Windstar’s new Miami office opening June, 2022.

04/05/2022  Windstar Cruises Hires New Northeast Regional Sales Manager
SEATTLE, WA, U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises has hired Meg Daly as the small ship cruise line’s new Northeast regional sales manager.

02/25/2022  Windstar Cruises Cancels Black Sea Itineraries
SEATTLE, WA, In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, small-ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has cancelled all sailings and cruise tours in the Black Sea region and will change its Baltic itineraries to replace calls in St. Petersburg, Russia with calls in a non-Russian port. Guests and travel advisors will be notified of the changes.

02/03/2022  Windstar Cruises Hires New Director of Revenue Planning
SEATTLE, WA, U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises has hired Cristienne (Cris) De Souza as the small ship cruise line’s director of revenue planning.

01/20/2022  Announcing Guest Chefs for James Beard Foundation Cruises
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises has announced the full lineup of James Beard Foundation-affiliated guest chefs for its series of three themed culinary cruises in 2022.

01/03/2022  Windstar Cruises’ Wave Season Offer is a Choice of Free Easy Stays Hotel Package or Onboard Credit
U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises has released its deal for the annual phenomenon known as Wave Season, when companies roll out their best offers for the first few months of the year. It is arguably the best time for booking a cruise vacation and typically is when the majority of travelers plan their vacation for the year ahead.

2021 Press Releases

12/13/2021  Windstar Cruises Names Karl Gulotta Corporate Executive Chef
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises has hired Karl Gulotta as its new corporate executive chef. The leading line in small ship cruises places a distinct emphasis on an elevated culinary experience and sources ingredients locally whenever possible.

12/7/2021  Windstar Cruises Launches New Ad Campaign and Holiday Sale
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises launched its new ad campaign today touting that “The Wind and Stars Know the Way.” 12 Ways of Windstar holiday sale runs 12/14-28.

11/16/2021  Windstar Cruises Adds All-Inclusive Pricing for Luxury of Choice
SEATTLE, WA, U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises is changing the way it sells cruises. Previously the small ship line had a base cruise fare, with an option to add things like alcohol, gratuities, and other onboard services on top.

10/19/2021  Windstar Cruises Signs Lease on New Miami Office Headquarters
SEATTLE, WA/MIAMI, FL, Windstar Cruises has officially found its new home in Miami, the epicenter of the cruise industry.

10/14/2021  Twice the Tahiti: Windstar Cruises Now Has Two Yachts in French Polynesia
PAPEETE, TAHITI, U.S. headquartered Windstar Cruises now has two of its six yachts in French Polynesia, making it the biggest small ship cruise line in the region.

10/13/2021  Windstar Cruises Takes Delivery of Star Pride
PALERMO, ITALY, Pride is the third and final all-suite Star Plus Class yacht to emerge from a multi-year, $250 million renovation project.

9/27/2021  Windstar's Reimagined Star Legend Makes Debut
SEATTLE, WA, The all-suite Star Plus Class Star Legend makes its debut today, sailing from Lisbon on a ten-day voyage to Barcelona.

9/7/2021  Windstar Reveals Clues to a Massive Treasure
SEATTLE, WA, Award-winning small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises is about to reveal the clues to a massive treasure hunt, running September 10-October 1.

8/16/2021  Windstar Cruises and James Beard Foundation Strengthen Partnership
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises has renewed and strengthened its relationship as the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation.

8/10/2021  Announcing New 79-Day Grand European Cruise
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises today announced the longest itinerary ever offered by the award-winning small ship cruise line.

8/8/2021  Wind Surf Resumes Operations
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises' flagship, the largest sailing ship in the world, returned to cruising today through the Mediterranean.

8/5/2021  Stijn Creupelandt Named Vice President of Hotel Operations and Product Development
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises has chosen the 20-year veteran to take charge of overall leadership, management, and operation of the guest experience.

7/16/2021  Windstar Resumes Sailing In Tahiti
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises has resumed cruising in French Polynesia/the Islands of Tahiti with vaccinated guests + crew aboard the line’s 148-passenger Wind Spirit sailing yacht.

6/22/2021  Windstar Resumes Cruising
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises resumed cruising operations on June 19 as the sailing yacht Wind Star tours the Greek Isles.

6/9/2021  Windstar Expands Travel Professionals Team
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises expands its Star Promise commitment and high-level of sales support and service to travel advisors

5/21/2021  Star Legend Delivered
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises’ President Chris Prelog officially received Star Legend back from the Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo, Italy.

5/5/2021  Windstar Celebrates Travel Advisor Appreciation Day
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises announces Send Your Travel Advisor on a Cruise Vacation Contest for Travel Advisor Apppreciation Day

3/22/2021  Windstar Adds New Marketing Tools For Travel Advisors
SEATTLE, WA, Travel Advisors can sign up for two new tools free via Windstar's Travel Advisor Hub.

1/26/2021  Windstar Outlines New Sailings Through May 2023
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar annoucnes fresh itineraries, transformed ships, and updated Health & Safety Protocols.

1/5/2021  Windstar Launches Wave Sale January 5
SEATTLE, WA, The Sail Small, Live Large With Big Perks offer lets travelers choose from a set of complimentary perks plus a reduced deposit of 5%.

2020 Press Releases

12/14/2020 Windstar Cruises Return to Sailing in May + Launch of Bon Voyage 2020 Holiday Sale
SEATTLE, WA, Newly transformed Star Breeze redelpoyed to Caribbean starting in May, 2021. Also announcing launch of Bon Voyage 2020 Sale.

11/16/2020 Windstar Cruises Offers New Promotion to Islands of Tahiti
SEATTLE, WA, Air+hotel+cruise bundle now includes free drinks.

8/4/2020 Windstar Cruises Goes Digital with 2021/2022 Small Ship Cruise Brochure
SEATTLE, WA, The new Voyage Collection brochure that details and brings to life the cruise line’s 2021 through spring 2022 sailings and cruise tours

7/14/2020 Windstar Cruises Retrofits Fleet with HEPA filters and UV-C Light; Partners with University of Colorado’s Anschutz Medical Center
SEATTLE, WA, To address health concerns brought on by the pandemic, Windstar Cruises has committed to a holistic Beyond Ordinary Care program.

5/29/2020 Windstar Cruises Announces New 2021 Small Ship Cruise Schedule
SEATTLE, WA, “Save Now & Sail Later” Offer Begins May 29, 2020

5/19/2020 Windstar Cruises Plans to Resume Cruising in September 2020
SEATTLE, WA, Wind Spirit returns to cruising in Tahiti first, followed by other yachts later in 2020/2021.

5/6/2020 Windstar Cruises Appreciates Travel Advisors Now More than Ever
SEATTLE, WA, Windstar Cruises is making a major change to its travel agent commission policy as well as announcing the return of a favorite promotion for travel advisors.

3/12/2020 Windstar Cruises Pauses Ship Operations Worldwide Due to Coronavirus Pandemic
SEATTLE, WA – Small ship cruise operator Windstar Cruises announced today that the company will temporarily suspend operations worldwide for cruises embarking March 14 through April 30, 2020 due to the unpredictable environment surrounding the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

2/27/2020 Windstar Cruises Creates New Travel Assurance Booking Policy
Seattle, WA - A new Travel Assurance Booking Policy acknowledges the challenge of booking vacations in advance and aims to allay travelers’ concerns about losing money due to unexpected illness or other world events.

1/28/2020 Windstar Unveils New Officer’s Suite on Wind Surf
Seattle, WA - The nautically appointed suite on the five-masted schooner (the largest sailing cruise ship in the world) is located directly behind the Bridge, in an area labeled “crew only.”

1/22/2020 Windstar Unveils Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso
Seattle, WA - The new onboard restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso will make its debut in May 2020 on Star Breeze, followed later in 2020 on sister ships Star Legend and Star Pride.

1/20/2020 Windstar Cuts First Steel for Star Pride
Seattle, WA - The new section is part of the line’s $250 Million Star Plus Initiative.

1/14/2020 Windstar Cruises to Support Reach the World
Seattle, WA - Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has announced a pilot program with New York-based nonprofit Reach the World to bring destinations around the world into underserved K-12 classrooms through virtual exchange.

1/07/2020 Windstar Wins Big With Travel Weekly, Condé Nast Traveler, USA Today
Seattle, WA - Windstar wins “Best Cruise Line (under 500 berths)” designation at the 17th Annual Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards, makes Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List for Best Cruise Ships in the World and placed #1 for Best Boutique Cruise Line in USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice awards.

1/02/2020 Announcing 'Wave Season'
Seattle, WA - Windstar’s “Pick Your Perk” savings for wave season, beginning January 7

2019 Press Releases

10/17/2019 Windstar Completes First Milestone on $250 Million Star Plus Initiative
Palermo, Italy, Oct. 17, 2019 — Fincantieri cuts Windstar’s Star Breeze in half, inserting 84-Foot (25.6 Meters) new section in Palermo, Italy

10/7/2019 Windstar Cruises Announces 2021 Alaska Sailings + Cruise Tours
Seattle, WA, Oct. 7, 2019 — Windstar Cruises announces its 2021 Alaska season today, offering nine different journeys from June through September on four unique itineraries, including a new seven-day option from Vancouver to Juneau and the reverse.

10/1/2019 Windstar Cruises Announces Industry-Leading Achievements
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises has been named best small ship cruise line in both AFAR Magazine’s Travelers’ Choice Awards and Travel Weekly’s Magellan Awards.

8/12/2019 Windstar Cruises Presents ‘Star Grill by Steven Raichlen’
Seattle, WA - Exclusive culinary partnership launches modern, alfresco restaurant at sea with Steven Raichlen, global grilling authority, TV host, and award-winning author.

8/8/2019 Windstar Cruises Celebrates Record-Breaking Booking Month
Seattle, WA - More regions, more ports are a big part of Windstar’s secret to success, adding hot spots like Australia & New Zealand to long-time favorites like Tahiti, the Caribbean, and Europe.

7/30/2019 Windstar Cruises Debuts New 2019-2021 Voyage Collection
Seattle, WA - Award-winning small ship line increases offerings to 330 ports with more than 2,500 personalized tours exploring international cultures.

7/24/2019 Windstar Cruises Releases New French Polynesia Video
Seattle, WA - Boutique Sailing Ship Offers 14 New Itineraries with Maiden Calls in Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga, Cook Islands & Australia in 2020

7/9/2019 Windstar Announces Sailings Down Underin 2020 & 2021
Seattle, WA - First-ever Australia-and New Zealand-intensive itineraries for the small ship cruise line

6/26/2019 Announcing “Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso”
Seattle, WA - Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso will first debut on Windstar’s award-winning small ships, beginning in March 2020 on Star Breeze, and later in 2020 on sister ships Star Legend and Star Pride as part of the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative.

6/18/2019 Windstar Wins Best Small Ship Cruise Line in 2019 in TravelAge West  WAVE Awards
Seattle, WA - Leading small ship cruise operator recognized by travel industry experts with prestigious honor for second consecutive year.

6/3/2019 Windstar Announces 2020 Europe Cruises
Seattle, WA - Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises offers an in-depth exploration of Europe in 2020, featuring a variety of itineraries sailing through the Baltic, Norwegian, North, Tyrrhenian, and Mediterranean seas

5/21/2019 Windstar's Alaska 2020
Seattle, WA - Windstar’s Signature Expeditions Program features sixfull-time onboard Expedition Leaders on every voyage to lead a range of water excursions directly from the ship by kayak and Zodiac, nature hikes, and fascinating lectures.

5/6/2019 Windstar Cruises and the James Beard Foudation Announce 2020 Dates
Seattle, WA - Culinary cruises feature over-the-top, authentic foodie experiences hosted by a James Beard Foundation guest chef and sommelier/beverage expert visiting intriguing ports of call worldwide.

4/302019 Cheers to Windstar’s New “All-In Package”
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises is making the convenience of a cruise even more appealing and effortless by offering a new inclusive onboard package with exceptional valueon everything needed for the perfect vacation.

4/9/2019 Windstar Reveals Details of $250 million Star Plus Initiative at Seatrade Cruise Global Event
Seattle, WA - At a press conference today, the Seattle-based cruise line’s President John Delaney, revealed 360-degree “views”and vibrant renderings of what guests will experience on the line’s three renovated vessels, Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride.

4/2/2019 Windstar Cuts First Steel at Italian Shipyard Fincantieri
Seattle, WA -  Fincatieri to makethe first cut in the new steel that will become the first of three new ships sections as part of Windstar’s $250 Million Star Plus Initiative.

4/1/2019 Windstar Cruises names Toby Skey new Vice President of Human Resources
Seattle, WA -  Windstar Cruiseshas named a new vice president of human resources: Toby Skey.

3/5/2019 Windstar Cruises opens bookings on Star Breeze & Star Legend
Seattle, WA - New Itineraries Featured, Including First-Ever Sailings Out of Miami & San Diego

2/25/2019 Windstar Immerses Guests in the Waters of the World with Complimentary Watersports Program
Seattle, WA - Watersports, Wet Landings, Snorkel & Dive Tours Ramp Up the Small Ship Experience in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Mexico, Tahiti and South Pacific

2/6/2019 Windstar Cruises Sails into 2019 with a Bevy of Travel Awards & Accolades
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises recent collection of prestigious accolades and awards from consumers and notable travel experts gives top marks for the fleet of six small ships

2/5/2019 Windstar Cruises Announces New Travel Agency Recognition Program
Seattle, WA - “Club 180” Rewards Top-Producing Travel Agencies with Three Tiers of Benefits

1/23/2019 “Beyond Ordinary” Savings Event
Seattle, WA - Windstar Features Best Fares & Availability of the Year—Plus Star Perks: Choose Up to $1,000 Cruise Cash, Free Wi-Fi, or Free Gratuities

2018 Press Releases

12/19/2018 Windstar and the James Beard Foundation expand partnership
Seattle, WA - Exclusive Partnership to deliver culinary-themed cruises and enriching culinary programing.

12/3/2018 John Gunner named Vice President of Expansion Projects
Seattle, WA - Gunner will make important contributions to operations as Windstar looks to add new destinations and expand programs.

11/15/2018 Windstar Cruises Announces $250 million Star Plus Initiative
Seattle, WA - The initiative will expand guest accommodations on three all-suite vessels increasing capacity from 212 to 312 guests per ship, following the lengthening.

11/5/2018 The Windstar Triple Play in Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain - In a Truly Rare Occurrence, three Windstar Ships (50% of the Fleet), sail from One of Europe’s Most Beautiful Cities.

10/30/2018 Porthole Magazine & Windstar Cruises Team Up to Offer a “Caribbean Celebration” Cruise on Wind Surf in 2019
Seattle, WA – Windstar Cruises is partnering with Porthole Cruise Magazine, the definitive authority on all things cruise, to reveal the indulgent Caribbean in a way no other cruise line can.

10/16/2018 Captain Belinda Bennett Awarded the 2018 Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service by HRH Princess Anne
Seattle, WA - Captain Bennett was giventhe award for services to the promotion of the maritime sectorunder the auspicesof the U.K. Department for Transport and Maritime & Coastguard Agency.

10/9/2018 Windstar Sails Deeper into the Caribbean & Latin America in 2019 & 2020: 11 New Itineraries & 150 Sailings
Seattle, WA - 56-day Grand Caribbean Voyage Offers Guests 38 Ports & 27 Countries and First-ever Panama Canal Partial Transit Aboard the 310-guest Wind Surf.

9/11/2018 Windstar Cruises Wins Gold for Overall-Small Cruise Ship in the 2018 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruisesreceivedseveral top honors in the 2018 Travel WeeklyMagellan Awards, including being named a Gold winner for Overall - Small Cruise Shipwith less than 500 passengers.

8/6/2018 Mary Beth Wressell is announced as Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations for Windstar Cruises
Seattle, WA - Mary Beth Wressell will oversee brand communications, digital marketing, customer relationship marketing, partnerships, and public relations.

7/16/2018 Windstar Makes Traveling Light Even Easier with New Luggage Forwarding
Seattle, WA - Luggage Forward® Partnership Allows Guests to Say ‘Goodbye’to Dragging Bags Through Airports and ‘Hello’ to Their Bags in Their Suites/Staterooms.

7/10/2018 Windstar Cruises Named #1 on Travel + Leisure World’s Best List for Midsize-Ship Ocean Cruise Line
Seattle, WA - World’s Best Awards honor the finest travel destinations and companies around the globe, as rated by Travel + Leisure’s discerning audience.

7/2/2018 Travel Beyond the Expectedin Europe:Exploring Hidden Harbors & Cultural Gems with Windstar Cruises
Seattle, WA - 2019 voyages include seven new itineraries and 163 ports of call.

6/30/2018 Korean War Veteran H.J. Burley Smith Awarded Korea’s “Ambassador of Peace” Medal on a Cruise Stop to Busan
Seattle, WA - Smith and his travel group,who were visiting Korea on a Windstar cruise to retrace history, were invited by President Moon Jae-in of South Korea tothe Geoje-do Monument to the SS Meredith Victory.

6/28/2018 'Star Legend' Transited The Ballard Locks in Seattle, Making History as the Largest Cruise Ship to Sail through
Seattle, WA - Event Marked the First Time a Windstar Ship Visited the Seattle Cruise Line’s Headquarters in 27 Years; New Zodiacs Were Named During the Festivities.

6/18/2018 Windstar Takes the 2018 TravelAge West WAVE Award for Best Small-Ship Cruise Line
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises received the 2018 TravelAge West WAVE Award for Best Small-Ship Cruise Line.

6/4/2018 Windstar Adds More Overnights and Late-Night Port Calls in Some of the World’s Greatest Places
Seattle, WA - More than 45 percent of Windstar’s cruises now offer a late night (10 p.m. or later) or overnight in port that allows cruisers much more time to explore.

5/22/2018 Windstar Debuts New Signature Expeditions Program Marking Long-Anticipated Arrival Back to Alaska
Seattle, WA - Windstar’s new soft-expedition-style cruising gets guests onto the water right from their small ship, up close and personal with Alaska’s wildlife and pristine natural habitats.

5/21/2018 New Asia Cruise Tours Explore Some of the World’s Oldest Civilizations and Most Modern Metropolises
Seattle, WA - Windstar Expands Small Ship Cruise Offerings in Asia with Inspired & In-Depth Land & Cruise Adventures on Seven New Cruise Tours in 2018-19.

5/2/2018 Windstar Welcomes Sommeliers on Four Ships and OffersBeverage Package on Star Collector Voyages
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruiseshas hired a team of sommeliers toserve guests on sailings in 270 ports around the world. Also, this year the culinary-themed cruises feature beverage experts hand-selected by the Jams Beard Foundation.

3/27/2018 James Beard Award Winners Chef Maxime Bilet and Sommelier Belinda Chang Coming Aboard in 2018
Seattle, WA - Windstar reveals the latest chef and sommelier team in its series of culinary themed cruises setting sail this year, as well as the addition of a star sommelier to a previously announced sailing in Norway.

3/14/2018 Windstar Announces Return to Asia: Expansive Deployment offers 27 Sailings from September 2018 to April 2019
Seattle, WA - The return to Asia for Windstar in 2018/19 will bring four new cruises, as well as the recurrence of four of the company’s most popular cruises from its 2017/18 season sailing in the region for a total of 27 sailings for travelers to choose from.

3/12/2018 Windstar's 51-Day Grand Mediterranean Cruise in Summer 2019 Aboard Wind Surf
Seattle, WA - Grand Mediterranean adventure will start on July 7 in Lisbon, Portugal and will end 51-days later in Barcelona on Augusts 27, 2018.

2/28/2018 Windstar Fleet Wins 20 travel awards in the 2018 Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards
Seattle, WA - Windstar dominated the Best Small Ship Dining category taking three of the top five spots with Star Legend, Star Breeze and Wind Surf named second, third and fifth respectively.

2/21/2018 Windstar and The James Beard Foundation Elevate Culinary Travel Experiences with New Multi-Year Partnership
Seattle, WA - On six culinary themed sailings yearly across a variety of Windstar’s sailing regions, a James Beard Foundation-selected chef and beverage expert will charm guests with culinary and beverage tastings, demonstrations, and specia local menu items.

2/12/2018 New Alaska Cruise Tours Add to Adventure AND Ease of Booking
Seattle, WA - The award-winning cruise line has announced that a new batch of Alaska cruise tours are open for booking, combining the best of Alaska’s interior along with a cruise.

1/5/2018 Windstar Launches Onboard Cruise Consultant Program Starting with Star Legend This Month
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises will launch a new Onboard Cruise Consultant (OCC) program to help guests on cruise vacations plan future cruise experiences and drive recognition and benefits supporting travel professionals.

1/10/2018 Windstar Announces Impressive Roster of Signature Expeditions Team Members for Alaska 2018 Cruise Season
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises recently announced its brand-new Windstar Signature Expeditions program – an enriching and immersive experience debuting on the small ship cruise line’s all-suite Star Legend sailings in Alaska this spring and summer.

1/8/2018 Windstar Cruises Sails into 2018 with Numerous Travel Awards & Accolades
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises, the upscale cruise line, is starting 2018 with a recent collection of prestigious accolades and numerous award wins.

2017 Press Releases

12/27/2017 Windstar Cruises Voted Best Boutique Cruise Line by USA TODAY 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises is thrilled to be named the #1 Boutique Cruise Line in the world by the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the second year in a row.

12/13/2017 Captain James Griffiths Appointed as Expedition Captain Overseeing Signature Expeditions Program
Seattle, WA - In this new capacity, Griffiths is overseeing the holistic creation, development and implementation of the line’s newly-announced Signature Expeditions program.

11/29/2017 Explore the Rarely Seen Wonders of Alaska in 2018 with Windstar’s New Signature Expeditions
Seattle, WA - Windstar’s Signature Expeditions will offer extremely high touch experiences both onboard ship and in the marine and wildlife environments where the award-winning boutique line sails.

10/31/2017 Windstar Cruises Promotes New Director of Revenue and Itinerary Planning
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises has promoted Jess Peterson on the heels of his first anniversary in joining the luxury line after a series of outstanding efforts quickly resulted in significant profitability for Windstar.

10/30/2017 When the Sea is Your Runway, You Hoist French Couture Sails
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises’ flagship sailing vessel Wind Surf, recently received crisp new sails

10/19/2017 James Beard Foundation Debuts Brand-New DishesDeveloped Especially for Windstar Cruises
Seattle, WA - Trendy Pok-Pok Restaurants’ Chef/Owner Andy Ricker to sail as guest chef on January 2018 Thailand and Vietnam James Beard Foundation Culinary Collection Cruise.

10/11/2017 Windstar’s Growth Momentum Continues with Promotions in Key Management Positions
Seattle, WA - Small ship cruise line appoints Kristin Badgett as Vice President of Revenue Management and Itinerary Planning and Victor Hernandez as Director of Digital Marketing and CRM.

10/5/2017 Windstar Cruises Appoints New Director of Risk Management and Compliance
Seattle, WA - New expert hire reflects that traveler safety is at the forefront for the award-winning cruise line

9/26/2017 Windstar Unveils New ‘Unexpected’ Ad Campaign And Impressive 2018 Voyage Collection Brochure
Seattle, WA - Innovations abound for Windstar in 2018 with worldwide cruise destinations featuring nearly 150 new ports and inventive new ads to enchant travelers on sailings 180 degrees from ordinary.

9/18/2017 Windstar Garners 6 New Awards
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises takes home three Gold Magellans and two Silver Magellans in the 2017 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, which recognized the company for the second year running as a “Gold Winner in Overall Small Cruise Ship” travel.

8/14/2017 Windstar Delivers on ‘Star Promise’ Travel Agent Initiative
Seattle, WA - Small ship cruise line supports travel agents with new online booking engine, better group policies, new agent hub, improved training & more FAMs

8/10/2017 Windstar Debuts New Land Tours, Added Itineraries, And Adventurous Shore Excursions In Asia
Seattle, WA - 2018 President’s Cruise to Take Place in Philippines/Borneo with Star Legend Godmother Gloria Bohan; Return to Asia Announced for Fall 2018.

8/9/2017 Windstar Cruises Appoints George Howell As Senior Director of Guest Services
Seattle, WA - Veteran cruise and travel industry executive employed to elevate customer service experience at award-winning small ship line.

6/26/2017 Windstar Launches New Star Collector Voyages
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises has launched a fresh series of back to back cruises, where longer and more in-depth voyages from 14 to 34 days feature few repeated ports in the new Star Collector Voyages.

5/22/2017 Windstar Cruises Adds 20 New Itineraries in Europe
Seattle, WA - Small Ship Cruise Line Doubles Its Unique Offerings in Northern Europe and adds to an Impressive Roster of Mediterranean Sailings.

4/25/2017 Windstar Cruises and the James Beard Foundation Announce New Culinary Cruise Collection
Seattle, WA - The two organizations unveiled the full eight sailing lineup for their James Beard Foundation Culinary Cruise Collection.

4/17/2017 Windstar Announces “Have You Ever” Promotion
Seattle, WA - Promotion Includes 22 Can’t-Miss Itineraries in Europe 2017 Summer Sale  

3/30/2017 Windstar Appoints Natalie Drain as Senior Manager Purchasing for Marine Fleet Operations
Seattle, WA - Drain brings 30 years of cruise expertise with 18 years of concentration in purchasing and vendor relations.

3/28/2017 Windstar Announces the Appointment of Graeme Cockburn as Corporate Executive Chef
Seattle, WA - Chef Cockburn begins immediately and is responsible for elevating the guest dining experience by
developing menu cycles that celebrate the authentic cuisine of the regions where the boutique line sails.

3/21/2017 Windstar Has Record Booking Week For Award-Winning Tahiti Cruises
Seattle, WA - Cruise popularity rises; NBC Today Show partners with Windstar for ‘Honeymoon Do-Over’ Contest.

3/15/2017 Windstar Takes Manhattan
Seattle, WA - Boutique Luxury Cruise Line Plans First-Ever Itineraries in New England & Canada

2/22/2017 Windstar Hires Cruise & Hospitality Veteran Guenter Steinbrunner as Corporate Hotel Manager
Seattle, WA - Steinbrunner is responsible for overseeing all aspects of shipboard product delivery on Windstar’s six yachts. 2/21/2017 TODAY Show Features Windstar Cruise to Tahiti in 'Honeymoon Do-Over' Promotion
Seattle, WA - As part of the new “Don’t Miss the Boat Honeymoon Do-Over” contest with
Kathie Lee and Hoda, couples who lost their chance to go on a romantic honeymoon now have the opportunity
for a do-over on an amazing 7-day Dreams of Tahiti cruise with Windstar.

2/20/2017 Windstar Appoints Paul Barrett as Vice President of Technical Operations
Seattle, WA - Industry veteran to oversee technical operations for globally deployed fleet of the world’s best small cruise ships.

2/7/2017 Windstar Cruises Named Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation
Seattle, WA - Boutique line announced as official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation and sponsor of the organization’s esteemed JBF Awards, Taste America®, Chefs & Champagne® and Celebrity Chef Tour.

1/30/2017 Windstar Windstar Cruises’ 212-Guest Star Legend Earns Perfect 100 Score on USPH Inspection
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend earned a perfect score of 100 on a recent routine United States Public Health (USPH) inspection conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.)

1/24/2017  Windstar Heads to Alaska & British Columbia in Summer 2018
Seattle, WA - Cruising back to the region after two decades, Windstar will offer a new, luxurious choice, with its boutique brand of small ship cruising and experiential travel.

1/9/2017 New Windstar President Hosts Panama Canal Cruise
Seattle, WA - Join Windstar’s John Delaney on 7-day Costa Rica & Panama Canal Cruise

1/7/2017 Windstar Cruises Taps Top Talent in Peter Tobler
Seattle, WA - Peter Tobler has joined the small ship cruise line as Director of Marine Hotel Operations.

1/03/2017 Windstar Awarded USA TODAY’s “#1 Best Boutique Cruise Line"; Named to Condé Nast Traveler’s 2017 Gold List
Seattle, WA - Windstar’s six small ships win new travel awards and garner travel influencer accolades.

2016 Press Releases

12/15/2016 Windstar's Nautical and Nice Holiday Event
Seattle, WA - Windstar’s Nautical and Nice Holiday Event offers the Best Savings of the Season in the Caribbean, Costa Rica & Panama Canal, Europe, Transatlantic, and Tahiti

11/28/2016 Windstar's 12 New Cruises Through Asia & Arabia
Seattle, WA - Windstar’s all-suite Star Legend yacht sails to new harbors in Japan, China, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Borneo, Egypt, India and more in 2017-18.

11/17/2016 Windstar Announces “Star Perks” Event & Launches 2017-2018 Winter Voyage Collection
Seattle, WA - Timed to coincide with the opening of reservations for 15 new itineraries to Asia, Arabia, and the Tropics, Windstar launches the Star Perks Event offering cruisers a choice of free pre/post hotel, beverage, or Wi-Fi package, or up to $1,000 shipboard credit.

11/16/2016 Windstar Names Christopher Prelog Vice President of Fleet Operations
Seattle, WA - Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises announces the appointment of Christopher Prelog to the position of Vice President of Fleet Operations. 11/07/2016 Windstar at Top of Industry-Ranked Tropical Romance on Iconic Small Ships
Seattle, WA - Porthole Cruise Magazine’s Readers' Choice Awards recognize Windstar Cruises as the Most Romantic Cruise Line, as well as naming the 310-guest sailing yacht Wind Surf the world’s Best Tall Ship for the 8th consecutive year.

10/25/2016 Windstar Continues Growth By Creating New Management Team Roles
Seattle, WA - Small ship cruise line appoints Vice President of Human Resources to newly created position, adds and promotes management staff for Seattle-based operations and HR teams. 9/26/2016 Windstar Wins Big in Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards
Seattle, WA - Recognized in Travel Weekly Magellan Awards as Leader in Small Ship Cruising; Best Itinerary (Around Iceland); Best Shore Excursion (Destination Discovery); and Leading Marketing Campaigns (Star Promise)

8/09/2016 Windstar Cruises Charts a Course for Yachting Adventure on Europe 2017 Sailings
Seattle, WA - Cruisers can choose from more than 120 unique sailings visiting small port gems and classic harbors around Europe with two new sailings to Croatia and more Iceland & Scandic sailings.

7/07/2016 John Delaney Takes the Helm at Windstar Cruises
Seattle, WA - Seasoned cruise veteran John Delaney will chart a course for the small ship cruise line that prides itself on a casual yet elegant approach to smaller harbors, in-port overnights, and personalized experiences around the world.

6/16/2016 Windstar Cruises’ Star Pride Re-enters Fleet with $4.5 Million Renovation
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises announces the debut of Star Pride as it re-enters the six-yacht fleet. The 212-guest Star Pride is back in action after receiving a scheduled $4.5 million transformation.

6/2/2016 Windstar Cruises Announces 2017 Voyage Collection
Seattle, WA - 2017 yacht vacations spotlight new cruises to Croatia, Northern Europe, 13 newp ports of call, Panama Canal private event, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

6/2/2016 Windstar Cruises Announces New 'Star Promise' Initiative
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises unveils new initiative aimed at making travel agents’ jobs easier to manage reservations.

5/26/2016 Windstar Cruises Year-Round Tahiti Sailings Marry Yacht Romance and Glamour with Vacation Value
Seattle, WA - Boutique, luxury yachts named a Top Cruise Line for Couples in the 2016 BRIDES Best Honeymoons Awards

4/25/2016 Windstar Cruises Announces New Corporate Staff Appointments
Seattle, WA - Leading small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has added six new individuals to its corporate operations

4/12/2016  Windstar Cruises Announces 11 New Private Events In Europe
Seattle, WA - Windstar Cruises brings guests closer to European culture with 11 new Private Events in the region for 2016.

3/29/2016  Windstar Cruises Names First Female Captain Belinda Bennett

2015 Press Releases

11/5/2015  Windstar Cruises Announces Jeff Corwin as First Private Event Host of 2016
Seattle, WA -- Television Personality/Conservationist Jeff Corwin to Host Island Experience in Panama

11/4/2015  Windstar Cruises Announces First-Ever Veterans Day Sale
Seattle, WA -- Parent Company Xanterra Parks & Resorts Also Holds Veteran/Military Giveaway Contest

10/29/2015  Windstar Cruises Presents the James Beard Foundation Collection in 2016
Seattle, WA -- Award-Winning Small Ship Cruise Line Partners with Venerable Non-Profit to Bring Top Culinary Programming On Board Select Sailings

10/29/2015 Seattle, WA -- Windstar Cruises Recognized as 2015 North America Cruise Specialty Partner by Ensemble Travel Group

9/30/2015  Windstar Announces New Tours with Sister Brand VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations
Seattle, WA -- Windstar Also Partners with Sister Brands AEG, Ritz Carlton Hotels for Emmy Experience and Xanterra Parks & Resorts for Exclusive Discounts

9/22/2015  Seattle, WA -- Windstar Rolls Out the Red Carpet at the Emmy Awards for Top Selling Travel Agents

9/9/2015  Windstar Cruises Unfurls New Sail & Stay Promotion
Seattle, WA -- Select Cruises Up to 60 Percent Off, Plus Two Free Hotel Nights

7/28/2015  Windstar Cruises Welcomes Solo Travelers
Seattle, WA -- World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line Introduces New Waived or Reduced Supplements for Solo Passengers on Select Cruises

7/16/2015  Windstar Cruises Introduces New All-Inclusive Cruise Packages in the Tropics
Seattle, WA -- Three complimentary shore excursions, an unlimited beverage package, and more offered on 11 different itineraries bookable now through September 18, 2015

6/11/2015  Windstar Cruises Announces Former Miss Tahiti as Newest Private Event Host
Seattle, WA -- Also announced: Take 10 Tahiti Sweepstakes

5/6/2015  Windstar Debuts Second All Suite Power Yacht
Seattle, WA -- World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line Launches Star Breeze

4/29/2015  Windstar Cruises Announces New Private Event Host: 'The Royal Chef’'
Seattle, WA -- Chef Darren McGrady, Former Chef for Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana, to Join ‘Idyllic British Isles’ Sailing on June 19

4/23/2015  Three Major Trade-Related Announcements from Windstar Cruises
Seattle, WA -- Gloria Bohan named Star Legend Godmother; Rising Stars Trade Program; Steven Simoa named VP of Travel Agency Sales
 

2014 Press Releases

11/24/2014  Windstar Cruises Gives Thanks with Best of the Tropics Sale
Seattle, WA -- Best of the Tropics Sale features up to 73% savings on voyages to Caribbean, Tahiti, and Asia

11/17/2014  Windstar Cruises Announces Year-Round Voyages in Tahiti
Seattle, WA -- Continuous sailings begin May of 2015, including new Tuamotu Islands itineraries

10/21/2014  Windstar Cruises Recognized With Condé Nast Traveler 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards as World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line
Seattle, WA -- Leader in yacht style cruising named the best in the world among small ship cruise lines

7/30/2014  Windstar Cruises Launches New Cruisetours, Including a Four-Day Myanmar Experience
Seattle, WA -- Small luxury cruise offers collection of land and sea experiences

7/9/2014  Windstar Cruises to Début Exclusive Private Events on all 2015 Voyages
Seattle, WA -- Small luxury cruise line expands 2015 Voyage Collection to offer new complimentary Private Events

6/30/2014  Windstar Cruises Celebrates America’s Birthday with Spectacular Savings
Seattle, WA -- Select voyages start at $1,776 per person

6/17/2014   Windstar Cruises Offers Best Value on Luxury Asia Voyages
Seattle, WA -- Guests receive a $1,000 air credit, free hotel and transfers on arrival, a free Private Event, and savings of up to 50% on cruise fares

6/9/2014   Windstar Cruises Celebrates Return to the Islands of Tahiti with Cruise Giveaway
Seattle, WA -- Win a Windstar voyage, round-trip airfare and one-hotel night for two by entering the Dreams of Tahiti Contest

5/21/2014   Windstar Cruises Sails into Summer with One Week Sale
Seattle, WA -- Save up to 66% on featured voyages to Europe, Tahiti, Asia and more

5/5/2014   Windstar Debuts First of Three New All Suite Yachts
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line launches Star Pride

4/29/2014  Windstar Cruises Unveils New Logo
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line premiers its new logo and brand image

4/8/2014  Windstar Cruises Sails into April with Exotic Destinations Sale
Seattle, WA -- Guests enjoy best deals of the year on Asia, Arabia and Tahiti voyages

4/4/2014  Windstar Cruises Announces Windstar Academy
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line premieres a three-part training course for travel partners

3/27/2014  Windstar Cruises Announces 2015 Voyage Collection
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line premieres seven brand new voyages, new yachts and new private events

3/11/2014  Windstar Cruises Unveils Plans for New Star Class Yachts
Miami, FL -- Small ship cruise line reveals new yacht names and destinations; Star Pride Godmother

2/21/2014  Windstar Cruises Launches Exclusive Asia Offer
Seattle, WA -- Guests receive 2-for-1 cruise fares, two free hotel nights and a free exclusive private event.

1/15/2014 Windstar Cruises Unveils First Look at Life On Board Star Pride
Seattle, WA -- Windstar Cruises Unveils First Look at Life On Board Star Pride

1/2/2014  Windstar Cruises Makes Condé Nast Traveler’s 2014 Gold List
Seattle, WA -- Ranked #3 for the world’s best cruise line.
 

2013 Press Releases

12/10/2013  Windstar Cruises Celebrates the Holidays with 12 Days of Savings
Seattle, WA -- Fares start as low as $1,499 per person for featured voyages in Europe and the Caribbean.

11/14/2013  Windstar Cruises Offers a Second Culinary and Wine Cruise
Seattle, WA -- Culinary & Wine Delights of Spain II features dinners, wine tastings, and culinary excursions

11/4/2013  Windstar Cruises Announces 2015 Winter Voyage Collection
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line Caribbean and Panama Canal itineraries open for sale

10/22/2013  Windstar Cruises Announces Voyages to Southeast Asia & Arabia
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line will sail five exclusive itineraries on the all suite Star Pride

10/17/2013  Windstar Cruises Ranked #2 in Condé Nast Traveler 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards
Seattle, WA -- Leader in yacht style cruising earns top service score among small ship cruise lines

10/14/2013  Windstar Cruises Launches New Loyalty Program
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line introduces Windstar Yacht Club

10/3/2013  Dreams Take Flight with Windstar Cruises Tahiti Air Package
Seattle, WA -- Package includes round trip airfare, complimentary hotel and more

9/6/2013  Windstar Cruises Offers Europe Sail & Stay Promotion
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small ship line features 2-for-1 cruise fare, plus two complimentary hotel nights

8/28/2013  Windstar Cruises to Renovate Staterooms
Seattle, WA -- Small ship luxury cruise line follows $18 million renovation with $3 million enhancements to staterooms

8/21/2013  Chef Michael Sabourin Joins Windstar Cruises as Corporate Executive Chef
Seattle, WA -- An 18-year culinary veteran, Chef Sabourin brings global expertise to Windstar Cruises.

7/22/2013  Windstar Offers Ultimate Grand Prix of Monaco Experience with Themed Cruise, Excursion Package
Seattle, WA -- Race to the finish line with Grand Prix festivities onboard Star Pride and Wind Surf

7/8/2013  Windstar Cruises Ranked Among Top Three Best Small-Ship Cruise Lines in Travel + Leisure 2013 World’s Best Awards
Seattle, WA --

7/1/2013  Windstar Cruises Celebrates America’s Birthday with Spectacular Savings
Seattle, WA -- More than 25 Grand Voyages reduced to $1,776 per person

6/26/2013  Windstar Cruises Partners with SAVEUR to Offer Premier Culinary and Wine Cruise
Seattle, WA -- New Culinary & Wine Delights of Spain Signature Sailing features dinners, wine tastings, and culinary excursions

6/12/2013  Windstar Cruises Offers Complimentary Enchanting Castles & Gardens Package
Seattle, WA -- Limited time offer available with the purchase of July 11, 2013 Idyllic British Isles voyage

5/31/2013  Windstar Cruises Celebrates Summer with 10-Day Sale
Seattle, WA -- Save up to 74% on 2013 Select Sailings

5/14/2013  Windstar Cruises Introduces New Yacht and Voyage Collection
Seattle, WA -- Four new, exquisite voyages featured exclusively on Star Pride

5/7/2013  Windstar Cruises Goes on the Road With a Series of Travel Agent Seminars
Seattle, WA -- Vice President of Sales kicks of series in Seattle, WA

4/29/2013  Windstar Cruises Announces Name of First Power Yacht as Star Pride
Seattle, WA -- Star Pride’s New European Voyages Open for Sale May 14, 2013

4/9/2013  Windstar Cruises Expands Horizons with Signature Sailings
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small-ship line offers two new packages to its collection of enhanced voyages

4/4/2013  Windstar Cruises Offers Europe Sail & Stay Promotion
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small-ship line features 2-for-1 cruise fare, plus two complimentary hotel nights

3/26/2013  Windstar Cruises 2014 European Voyages Open For Sale
Seattle, WA -- Four new luxury cruises offer travel to fifteen new and intriguing ports

3/20/2013  Windstar Cruises Marches into Spring with Savings Sale
Seattle, WA -- Select European Voyages feature 2-for-1 cruise fares plus bonus savings of up to $2,400.

3/13/2013  Windstar Cruises Announces Dreams of Tahiti Voyages Now Open for Sale
Seattle, WA -- Discover Polynesian history through ancient marae sites, dance, and tikis

2/19/2013  Windstar Cruises Expands Fleet with Addition of Three Seabourn Ships
Seattle, WA -- Company Doubles Size, Becomes The Market Leader in Small-Ship Cruising

2/6/2013  Windstar Cruises Offers Savings with One Week Sale
Seattle, WA -- Fares start as low as $1,299 per person for featured voyages in Europe and the Caribbean.

1/29/2013  Windstar Cruises Announces Voyages to Tahiti
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small-ship line will return to the South Pacific for the first time in over a decade

1/16/2013  Windstar Cruises Completes Fleet-wide Renovation
Seattle, WA -- Small-ship luxury cruise line finishes its $18 million refurbishment on all three sailing yachts.

2012 Press Releases

12/18/2012  Windstar Cruises Celebrates the Holidays with 12 Days of Savings
Seattle, WA -- Fares start as low as $1,299 per person for featured voyages in Europe and the Caribbean.

12/4/2012  Windstar Cruises Explores Northern Europe with Sail & Stay Promotion
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small-ship line offers variety of voyages and shore excursions

11/30/2012  Windstar Cruises Announces 2014 Winter Deployment
Seattle, WA -- Luxury small-ship line launches Caribbean and Costa Rican Voyage Collection

11/19/2012  Wind Surf to Debut New Restaurant Called Stella Bistro
Seattle, WA --

11/8/2012  Windstar Cruises Moves Full Sail Ahead in 2013
Seattle, WA --

10/29/2012  Windstar Cruises Launches A Wicked Deal
Seattle, WA --

10/25/2012  Windstar Cruises Nears Completion of Fleet Renovation
Seattle, WA --

10/22/2012  Windstar Cruises Celebrates National Cruise Vacation Week with Special Offers
Seattle, WA --

10/4/2012  Windstar Cruises Offers New Golf and Cruise Experience in Scotland and Ireland
Seattle, WA --

9/21/2012  Windstar Cruises Heats Up the Tropics with 2-for-1 Cruise Fares
Seattle, WA --

9/18/2012  Alan McGrory Joins Windstar Cruises as VP of Marine Hotel Operations
Seattle, WA --

8/22/2012  Windstar Cruises Launches 12 Deals of 2012
Seattle, WA -- Fares start as low as $1,799 for featured voyages in Europe and the Mediterranean

8/16/2012  Windstar Cruises Offers Grand Prix Package
Seattle, WA -- Guests on board the Yachting the Rivera voyage have access to the world famous Formula One races.

8/9/2012  Wind Star Shines Brighter with New Renovations
Seattle, WA -- The 148-passenger Wind Star yacht is the first ship completed in Windstar Cruises’ $18 million fleet-wide renovation.

7/31/2012  Windstar Cruises Launches One Week Sale
Seattle, WA -- Fares start as low as $1,299 for featured voyages in Europe and the Caribbean

7/12/2012  Windstar Cruises Appoints Amanda Graham Director of Public Relations
Seattle, WA -- Windstar Cruises Appoints Amanda Graham Director of Public Relations

4/5/2012  Windstar Announces New Look, New Places for 2013
Seattle, WA -- Leading Windstar’s new offerings for 2013 are seven entirely new voyages. Along with an enticing collection of voyages, Windstar also unveils the complete renovation of the line’s three sailing yachts. 1/26/2012  Windstar Cruises Offers Two Greek Isles & Turkish Delights Itineraries
Seattle, WA -- This Spring, Summer and Fall on Wind Star and Wind Spirit

1/25/2012  Windstar Cruises Introduces Three New Itineraries in the Baltic
Seattle, WA -- Capitals of Scandinavia, Best of the Baltic, and Treasures of Northern Europe

1/19/2012  Windstar Cruises Unveils New Renderings for Wind Star and Wind Spirit Renovations
Seattle, WA -- New, Stylish Look is Part of Windstar’s $18 Million Fleet Refurbishment Plan

1/11/2012  Windstar’s New Islands of Italy Voyage Features Some of Europe’s Most Exclusive Islands
Seattle, WA -- Seven-Day Sailings Rome to Rome

1/4/2012  Windstar Offers Sail & Stay Packages in Europe
Seattle, WA -- Two-For-One Fares on 2012 European Voyages Plus Two Free Hotel Nights

1/2/2012  Windstar Cruises Announces Two-For-One Fares on Caribbean Voyages
Seattle, WA -- Seven-Day Sailings From $1,399 Per Person