Tourexpi
Next
winter, Windstar Cruises is making the Mediterranean sparkle with the debut of
its newest yacht, Star Explorer, and the return of its beloved winter sailings
to Europe. Launching December 28, 2026, the 224-guest vessel marks the latest
addition to Windstar's Star Class fleet and brings a stylish new chapter to
Windstar's year-round European offerings—this time, with more immersive
cultural experiences, off-season perks, and hidden harbors waiting to be
discovered without the summer crowds.
Crafted
for discovery, Star Explorer is perfectly built for exploring small ports and
big stories. Her inaugural Local Season includes longer stays and local
festivals that shine brighter in the off-season—from twinkling winter markets
to colorful Venetian Carnevale celebrations. And with Windstar's signature
yacht-style warmth and comfort, it's like having the Med all to yourself (with
a chilled glass of wine in hand). Guests will enjoy overnight stays in Florence
(Livorno), Barcelona, and Nice — plus lesser-traveled ports like Genoa,
Catania, and Malaga. Seasonal highlights include Carnevale in Venice, Epiphany
in Greece, and cozy winter markets lit by Mediterranean sunshine.
"Winter
is when the Mediterranean slows down — and that's when Windstar steps in,"
says Jess Peterson, director of destination experience & itinerary
planning. "With Star Explorer, we're offering guests a chance to see these
legendary places with fresh eyes and fewer crowds, all in the comfort of our
newest yacht."
Windstar
Cruises invites guests to take advantage of a generous Early Booking Offer
available through July 31, 2025. Travelers who book now will receive a
complimentary All-Inclusive package, featuring Wi-Fi, unlimited select wine,
beer and cocktails, and gratuities — a value of more than $1,300 per stateroom
on a 7-day cruise. Guests will also enjoy up to $200 in onboard credit per
stateroom, redeemable for curated shore excursions, rejuvenating treatments at
World Spa by Windstar, and other onboard amenities.
For
added value, Windstar has introduced its new Pay Now, Save More promotion.
Those who pay in full at the time of booking will receive an additional 5%
discount on cruise fare (including non-discountable fares). This promotion is
only available with cruises booked using the Early Booking Offer.
Itineraries
include:
·
Star Explorer's Inaugural Voyage:
Southern Spain Winter Escapes (9 nights) – Wander through Gaudí's whimsical
architecture in Barcelona and master the art of paella in a cozy home kitchen
in sun-drenched Málaga. Soak up the warmth of Europe's mildest winter city,
explore Picasso's legacy, and gaze across the sea to North Africa from the
historic rock of Gibraltar. Guests have the option to extend the experience
inland with the Madrid & Southern Spain Cruise Tour for the best of both
worlds.
·
Europe's Winter Riviera (7 nights) –
Indulge in the Riviera's off-season charm with overnight stays in Florence
(Livorno) and Barcelona. Enjoy unobstructed views of Renaissance masterpieces
in Tuscany, discover Genoa's golden-age grandeur, and sip sangria in
Barcelona's Gothic Quarter. With fewer tourists and more locals, this is
"la dolce vita" at its finest.
·
Winter Italy & the Dalmatian Coast
(8 nights) – Step behind the scenes of Europe's most iconic sites—think
Michelangelo's frescoes, Venice's serene canals, and the ancient ruins of
Pompeii—minus the crowds. From learning to make pizza in Sicily to watching
winter lights shimmer in Dubrovnik, this journey blends history, hospitality,
and holiday magic.
·
Star Collector Voyages + optional
Madrid Cruise Tours (13+ nights) – Dive deeper into Europe with extended
itineraries that combine multiple voyages into one seamless adventure. Spend
more time in more places with fewer repeated ports and rare perks like free
daily laundry.
On
board, Star Explorer offers 112 spacious suites, including two Horizon Owner's
Suites with expansive wraparound balconies ideal for catching winter sunrises.
Guests will enjoy Windstar favorites like the Yacht Club Café, the signature
Marina deck, and the line's famously friendly crew delivering personalized
service that feels like home—only better.
This
season marks Windstar's fourth winter season sailing the Mediterranean—yet with
the addition of Star Explorer, the experience is reimagined and elevated for
returning guests and first-timers alike.
To
plan a small ship cruise with Windstar, book online, contact a travel advisor,
reach out to Windstar Cruises by phone at 866-258-7245, or request a call by a
Windstar vacation planner. For more information on Star Explorer's development,
visit Windstar’s website.
Image
Credit: © Windstar Cruises
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