Cruise line review
Windstar Cruises
Watch the sails unfurl to the sound of music as you leave port, swim off the back of the ship in a quiet bay and dine on deck under the stars: Windstar is yachting for people who do not own a yacht.
The line
Windstar sails small ships to smaller ports, with long-standing seasons in Tahiti, Greece, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and Iceland. The fleet is growing: Star Seeker joined in late 2025 and her sister Star Explorer arrives in December 2026.
The ships
Two kinds of ship. The Wind Class are masted sailing yachts: Wind Star and Wind Spirit carry 148 guests and Wind Surf 342. The Star Class are all-suite yachts carrying 224 to 312 guests. The sailing fleet is completing a two-phase redesign by 2027.
Cabins and suites
Sailing-yacht cabins are compact and nautical, with portholes; the Star Class suites are larger, and many have balconies or French balconies. For space, choose a Star Class ship; for romance, choose sails.
Food and drink
Relaxed and good, with regional menus, a deck barbecue night under the stars and open-air dining on fine evenings. No set seating, and the dress code is resort casual.
Onboard life
Easy-going and sociable. The watersports platform at the stern opens in calm anchorages for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, and the captain keeps an open bridge on many sailings.
Excursions
Paid excursions in every port, plus a signature included beach day on many itineraries. Small ports mean you are often a short walk from the harbour into town.
What is included
Meals, soft drinks, watersports and entertainment. An optional all-inclusive package adds drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities and is usually worth it.
Who will love it
Couples and friends who want the feel of a private yacht, quiet harbours and days in the water rather than formal nights.
Questions
Does Windstar actually sail?
The three Wind Class ships, Wind Star, Wind Spirit and Wind Surf, are masted sailing yachts that use their sails.
How many guests are on a Windstar ship?
Between 148 and 342, depending on the ship.
Are drinks included?
Soft drinks are included. An optional all-inclusive package adds alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities.
When is the best time for Greece?
May, June and September, when the sea is warm and the islands are quieter than in high summer.
Last updated 30 October 2026
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