Windstar Cruises is building on its small-ship approach with fleet refurbishments, new itineraries and expanded destination experiences designed to give travelers more ways to explore the world by sea.
During a recent webinar for media and travel industry partners, Windstar executives outlined the company’s plans for its sailing fleet, the introduction of Star Explorer and new opportunities for travel advisors to connect clients with immersive experiences both onboard and ashore.
The company also highlighted its continued commitment to French Polynesia, where it will celebrate 40 years of operations in 2027.
Two Ships, More Ways to Experience Tahiti
French Polynesia remains a central part of Windstar’s plans. In 2027, the company will mark 40 years in the destination, with Wind Star returning to the region alongside Star Breeze.
The ships will offer different ways to explore the islands. Wind Star will focus on the 7-day Dreams of Tahiti itinerary, visiting the Society Islands, including destinations such as Bora Bora and Moorea. Star Breeze will provide another option for travelers seeking a larger suite and itineraries that explore a different side of French Polynesia.
Windstar executives also pointed to investments in the onboard experience, including expanded marina facilities, floating Aquabanas and additional watersports equipment. The company has introduced French Polynesian cultural ambassadors onboard and is adding more local staff to different departments to strengthen the connection between the cruise and the destination.
For travel advisors, the company is also promoting packages with Air Tahiti Nui that can include direct flights from Los Angeles, transfers, hotel stays and post-cruise extensions. The packages offer a way to combine a Windstar sailing with a broader French Polynesia vacation.
Star Explorer Opens New Itinerary Possibilities
Windstar is preparing to expand its fleet with Star Explorer, which executives said was expected to begin sailing on Dec. 28, 2026. The ship is slated to spend the winter and spring in the Mediterranean, with a christening planned for London in 2027.
The new ship will also support the company’s growing river-to-ocean cruise concept, which uses smaller vessels to sail into rivers and reach destinations closer to city centers.
Itineraries discussed during the webinar include sailing along the Thames through London’s Tower Bridge, as well as exploring the Rhone, Bordeaux and Seville. The concept is intended to appeal to river cruise travelers interested in trying an ocean-going ship without giving up the close access to cities and cultural experiences that make river cruising attractive.
Windstar executives said the river-to-ocean offering has been well received by travel advisors and provides an additional option for clients, particularly during the winter months when traditional river cruise choices may be more limited.
The company also highlighted shorter European cruises as an entry point for travelers who may not be ready to commit to a weeklong sailing or who want to add a few nights at sea to a longer land-based vacation.
Destination Discovery Events Expand in 2027
Windstar is also expanding its Destination Discovery events, which bring guests closer to the culture and history of the places they visit. Executives said half of the company’s 2027 sailings will include a complimentary event.
Examples discussed during the webinar included an evening dining experience in front of the Library of Celsus in Ephesus, a private evening at the Tower of London, cultural programming in Japan and an evening featuring fire dancers and a barbecue in Bora Bora.
Additional experiences are planned in destinations including Iceland and Dubrovnik. The company said the events are designed around authentic local connections and access that travelers might not easily arrange independently.
With its expanded itineraries, onboard enhancements and growing portfolio of destination experiences, Windstar is continuing to build on the small-ship model that defines the brand.
For travel advisors, the additions offer more ways to tailor a sailing to clients’ interests, whether that means exploring lesser-visited ports, extending a land vacation with a shorter cruise or experiencing a destination through exclusive cultural programming.
For more information, visit windstarcruises.com.
