Small-ship luxury cruise Windstar Cruises is expanding 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, is expected to be delivered in December of 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December, 2026.
Each ship has 112 suites, featuring full private verandas and infinity windows, ensuring great views for every guest onboard. Additionally, two new Owner’s Suites with wrap-around balconies have been added to the aft of the ship.
With a capacity for 224 guests and a staff to guest ratio of 1:2, the ships maintain an intimate atmosphere, ensuring personalized service at every turn.
Guests will also have access to several newly added Windstar amenities, including the brand’s Watersports Platform with all-new staircase access, the Yacht Club café and lounge, a two-storey spa and fitness facility, an intimate forward whirlpool on the bow, and a spacious open deck perfect for sunbathing and Windstar’s popular deck barbeques.
As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation (JBF), Windstar’s commitment to exceptional cuisine will continue to be a priority for the guest experience. The re-imagined main dining room, Amphora, will serve a variety of upscale and inventive dishes, including rotating items from James Beard Foundation-affiliated guest chefs. Al fresco dining will now be available at both Amphora and the Star Grill. A no-charge specialty restaurant and 24-hr room service rounds out the four dining options.
Star Seeker and Star Explorer both have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations. The ships are equipped with the latest technology in safety, propulsion, and navigation, including pump jet thrusters and forward-facing Sonar.
To minimize their environmental footprint and uphold the brand’s commitment to sustainability, the ships have tier III Nox rated Rolls Royce engines and can connect to shore power minimizing port emissions. In addition, the ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet all global standards.
“Our goal was to ensure these ships are unmistakably Windstar, and a significant amount of effort has gone into achieving this, says Windstar Cruises’ President Christopher Prelog. “We are thrilled for this expansion, building on the success of our game-changing Star Class in small-ship cruising with guests and travel partners, while offering new experiences.
The expansion also allows Windstar to return the Wind Star to Tahiti, where it will join Star Breeze in 2027, adding more capacity to meet the growing demand for French Polynesian sailings.
Full itineraries and booking details for Star Seeker will be announced in late June 2024.