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Windstar Cruises Launches a Second Solar Eclipse Voyage: A Spectacular Mediterranean Experience
Windstar Cruises is inviting travellers on an unforgettable journey with its second solar eclipse cruise, following the success of its first sold-out voyage. This time, the luxurious 148-guest sailing yacht, Wind Spirit, will offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the 2026 total solar eclipse at sunset, set against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. A Journey Like No Other Departing from Rome on 6 August 2026, the seven-night Mediterranean Sunset Eclipse cruise promises breathtaking vistas and immersive cultural experiences. Guests will explore charming ports across three Mediterranean islands: Bastia and Calvi in Corsica, Alghero in Sardinia, and Mahon in Menorca. With two full days at sea, the itinerary allows time to enjoy the luxurious amenities aboard Wind Spirit. The highlight of the voyage is, of course, the eclipse. On 12 August, Wind Spirit will anchor strategically north of Mallorca, Spain, offering passengers an unobstructed view of the phenomenon as the moon fully covers the sun at 8:30 pm. Guests will gather for an eclipse watch party on deck, complete with complimentary glasses to safely view this rare celestial event. The Rarity of a Sunset Eclipse The 2026 solar eclipse is particularly unique as the path of totality passes over Spain and Portugal, with the sun appearing just above the horizon during the event. This rare timing ensures a magical view from the sea, making the Wind Spirit the ideal vantage point for an unobstructed experience. Jess Peterson, Windstar’s Director of Destination Experiences and Itinerary Planning, reflected on the popularity of eclipse cruises: “Ships at sea can position for clear views, making this a truly sought-after experience. Our first eclipse cruise in Iceland sold out quickly, so it was natural to look at our Mediterranean deployment for the next opportunity.” Exploring Mediterranean Gems Before witnessing the eclipse, guests will have the chance to immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of these Mediterranean ports: Windstar’s Continued Growth As Windstar Cruises celebrates 40 years of operating yacht-style voyages, its fleet is expanding with the addition of Star Seeker in December 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December 2026. The line continues to excel in delivering intimate, destination-rich experiences, with each yacht carrying between 148 and 342 guests. Whether it’s exploring picturesque ports, savouring gourmet dining, or witnessing the awe of a sunset eclipse at sea, Windstar offers travellers the chance to create extraordinary memories. Bookings for this unique Mediterranean adventure are now open, with more information available via Windstar Cruises’ website or travel advisors. Set sail for an experience that combines celestial wonder with Mediterranean splendour—Windstar’s Mediterranean Sunset Eclipse cruise is truly not to be missed.
Windstar Cruises introduces Jess Peterson as its new director of destination experience
Windstar Cruises announced the hiring of Jess Peterson as its new director of destination experience and itinerary planning. With an impressive background in travel planning and a deep passion and understanding for creating unforgettable guest experiences, Peterson will oversee the development of global itineraries that reflect Windstar's philosophy of 180 Degrees From Ordinary. Peterson will collaborate closely with the Windstar team on detailed revenue analytics while developing itineraries that offer guests unique opportunities for cultural engagement, culinary exploration, and extraordinary adventures. He will also work with the team to further expand Windstar's portfolio of pre- and post-cruise packages. According to Windstar Cruises’ chief commercial officer Janet Bava: “Peterson will enable Windstar to increase its focus on the development of new itineraries and pre/post cruise experiences for our guests.” Back in the saddle Prior to this latest appointment, Peterson was previously with Windstar from 2016 to 2019 as its director of revenue and itinerary planning and led the company’s expansion into four new operating regions: Japan, Alaska, Canada/New England, and Australia/New Zealand. Most recently, he worked as an itinerary planning consultant. Peterson also spent four years at Hurtigruten Expeditions, where he worked in a range of itinerary and product planning roles, culminating in his position as vice president of customer experience and new product development. He said of this new role with the company: “It's great to be back at Windstar, and I'm excited to help develop new and unique experiences for our guests with Windstar’s talented team. The addition of two new ships is very energizing. I just returned from a three-week research trip to Asia where we’re developing some amazing itineraries for our guests. We’ll include popular ports and cities, but also surprising, lesser-known destinations.”
Windstar Cruises’ new Star Seeker yacht touches water for the first time
Windstar Cruises floated out its newest vessel, the Star Seeker, on Monday, 25th November, at the WestSEA Shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal. A float out is a maritime tradition of marking when a ship leaves dry dock and becomes waterborne for the first time. To commemorate the occasion, Windstar’s Star Seeker float-out ceremony included Mario Ferreira and Manuel Barros of Mystic Invest and Windstar’s vice-president for expansion projects John Gunner who is directing the ship building project for Windstar. Gunner was on site for the float out and provided remarks including thanking Ferreira for his support through the process and the team at the Portuguese shipyard for their dedication and craftsmanship. While construction of Star Seeker’s exterior is complete, work will be ongoing to complete the interiors, including 112 spacious suites. Gunner said: “Seeing a ship come together and be at the point where she leaves dry dock for the sea is a memorable milestone in the life of a new build project. I am very grateful for this opportunity to be involved in creating a new ship for Windstar and thankful for Mario’s passion and vision for ships which helped guide us to this momentous event today: the float out of a new, beautiful ship for Windstar.” What comes next? Star Seeker will enter service in December of 2025, sailing from Málaga, Spain to Miami, Florida, where Windstar is headquartered and where the ship’s christening ceremony will take place in January of 2026. Star Seeker will then sail its first voyage in the Caribbean and offer more cruises in the region before heading up the West Coast of the United States to Alaska for a full season of summer cruises. From there, the ship will sail to Asia, bringing back the line’s popular Around Japan itineraries. The new ship will boast five dining options, a full-service spa with a grand entrance from the deck above, a fitness facility, and a fresh take on the line’s iconic Watersports Platform, which turns the ocean into an infinity pool by providing guests access to the sea directly from the ship. With a capacity for 224 guests and a staff to guest ratio of 1:2, Star Seeker will maintain the intimate atmosphere for which Windstar is renowned, ensuring personalized service at every turn.
Windstar Cruises introduces new online booking engine
Small-ship cruise firm Windstar Cruises launched its new online booking engine through its official website. This new advanced online booking capability streamlines the vacation planning process allowing guests and travel advisor partners to easily lock in their cruise date, destination, excursions, and hotels. Travellers now have the capability to create a MyWindstar account where they can shop for cruises, add on the cruise line's $99 All-Inclusive package, select hotels and available excursions, and finalise bookings all from the convenience of their own devices. Online booking for all Previously, online booking was only available to travel advisors through TravelAdvisor Hub. The new MyWindstar platform now allows consumers to seamlessly navigate through available itineraries, accommodations, and offerings with detailed descriptions and photos to help guide the planning and booking process. Travellers booking through a travel advisor have online functions to view their itinerary and can add select elements to their reservation such as shore excursions and special requests. According to chief commercial officer Janet Bava: "Windstar Cruises is committed to enhancing the travel experience for our guests from start to finish. By expanding our booking options, we’re ensuring that every guest can plan their cruise in the way that’s most convenient for them—whether they prefer the ease of online booking, the connection of working with a trusted travel advisor, or the personalised service from our Vacation Planning team.” The new booking platform is available for all of Windstar Cruises’ itineraries and ships including its year-round sailings in the Mediterranean and South Pacific, and on its new Alaska and Japan voyages on the cruise line's upcoming new ship, Star Seeker.
Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg wins Windstar Cruises’ ASTA Icon award
Windstar Cruises announced that Chase Travel’s head of travel policy Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg received its ASTA Icon Award for this year. Wilson-Buttigieg received the award from Windstar Cruises vice-president of sales Dianna Rom on 21st August at the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) Travel Masters event. Rom said of the winner: “Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg is a staple in the travel industry. She brings a forward-thinking approach and 'challenge the status quo' mindset to all her endeavors. Her commitment and contributions to the industry is tremendous and only continues to grow." Wilson-Buttigieg previously received ASTA’s Paul Ruden Industry Ambassador Award in 2018, and the ASTA Barbara O’Hara Advocacy Award in 2010. What is the ASTA Icon Award? Co-created with Windstar Cruises, the ASTA Icon Award recognises and celebrates women who have made significant contributions to the advancement of women in the travel industry. This award honours female leaders who have demonstrated excellence in their respective roles, while simultaneously inspiring and empowering other women in the travel industry and promoting women’s advancement. It also highlights the accomplishments and success stories of women in various sectors of the travel industry, including travel advisors, agency owners, tourism representatives, and supplier partners.
Windstar Cruises offers first look at the new Star Seeker
Windstar Cruises presented the public with its first look at its new ship, the Star Seeker, a 224-guest vessel scheduled to sail in January 2026. The cruise line’s vice-president for hotel operations Stijn Creupelandt said of the ship: “Guests aboard Star Seeker will experience a sense of tranquility in their suites; they are designed to be an oasis for relaxation. We used light wood and a soothing color palette of light blues, greens, and natural browns, elements that reflect our Star Class style.” Creupelandt pointed out how the colours and textures on board were inspired by the sea, sky, and natural landscapes. In total, they create a serene atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway. The ship’s public spaces and restaurants, however, are characterised by more vibrant hues inspired by sunrises and sunsets. The colour palette here involves warm yellows, golds, and oranges, evoking a curated atmosphere of elegance and comfort throughout the ship. Built for comfortable voyages The Star Seeker offers 112 spacious suites, all but ten featuring a full private veranda or floor-to-ceiling infinity window. The ship also boasts of five dining options, a full-service spa with a grand entrance from the deck above, a fitness facility, and a fresh take on the line’s iconic Watersports Platform that turns the ocean into an infinity pool that gives guests access to the sea directly from the ship. There are two Horizon Owner’s Suites, a new suite category for the line, at the aft of the ship on deck 7, which can be combined with adjacent suites for more space and multi-generational families. Each comes with a wrap-around balcony offering spectacular vistas, perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner. The two Horizon Owner suites are Star Seeker’s most luxurious and spacious offerings; however, the ship has a full menu of suite offerings with 12 different accommodation types to choose from, many allowing triple occupancy. Star Seeker has 72 suites with large verandas where guests may sit outside and enjoy the view and fresh air. The new ship also has 30 infinity suites equipped with a large floor-to-ceiling infinity window that slides down half-way from the top to open the suite to refreshing sea breezes. Getting ready to sail At present, the Star Seeker is under construction in Portugal. The maiden voyage will be a Transatlantic sailing in early January from Malaga to Miami. After a christening event in Miami where the cruise line is headquartered, Star Seeker will sail its first voyage in the Caribbean and offer more cruises in the Caribbean before heading up the West Coast of the United States to Alaska for a full season of summer cruises. From there, the ship will sail to Japan and bring back the line’s popular Japan itineraries before heading to Southeast Asia. Details on Star Seeker’s Caribbean, Alaska, and Japan cruises will be announced first to Yacht Club members and travel advisors, giving them priority access to book.
Windstar Cruises appoints Jason Grant as vice-president of information technology
Windstar Cruises announced the appointment of Jason Grant as vice president of information technology. In this role, Grant oversees 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. With over two decades of experience in the technology sector, Grant led international IT teams while delivering innovative solutions for several cruise lines. Prior to this latest appointment, he worked at Lindblad Expeditions and then moved to Carnival Corporation where he worked with multiple brands including Seabourn, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and P&O Australia. He took on the roles of where he held the positions of senior vice-president and chief information officer. Grant said of the appointment: "I'm excited to join Windstar Cruises and contribute to a brand that is synonymous with extraordinary global travel experiences. "I look forward to working with the talented team here and further advancing Windstar's digital initiatives that not only enhance cruise operations but also the experience for our guests, crew and travel advisors.” A timely appointment Windstar's vice-president of human resources Toby Skey said: “[His] extensive background in technology and his passion for the cruise industry and enhancing customer experiences make him an ideal fit for Windstar Cruises.” Skey added that Grant’s appointment is quite timely. Windstar Cruises is in the process of expanding its fleet and enhancing its range of guest experiences. In which case, Grant’s innovative approach, together with the company's existing IT team will be instrumental in leveraging technology to provide guests with exceptional service and unforgettable experiences. Grant's leadership will play a pivotal role as Windstar Cruises continues to update and expand its fleet. The company's two new ships Star Seeker and Star Explorer will join Windstar Cruises in 2025 and 2026.
Windstar Cruises celebrates travel advisors in May with four free cruise giveaways and bonus commission
May 1st 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. During the month of May, travel advisors who make a new booking or complete Windstar’s online training program will automatically be entered for a chance to win one of four free cruises for themselves and a guest. Advisors can boost their chances with each booking (2024 new bookings made during the month of May are worth five entries; each new booking for 2025 and beyond counts for two entries). Advisors who complete Windstar’s Star Specialist Online Learning Program in May 2024 also earn five entries. Beyond the giveaway, Windstar is also offering a bonus perk all month long. Travel advisors can earn a $100 commission bonus for each cabin booked for a new-to-Windstar guest during the month of May. “During Travel Advisor Appreciation Month, we are celebrating the contributions of our advisor partners,” says Dianna Rom, Windstar’s Vice President of Sales. “Advisors are very successful in bringing new-to-cruise guests to the brand, which is something we’ve been seeing in large numbers since the cruise industry opened back up in 2021. Their expertise enriches the experiences of travelers and helps ensure happy guests sailing on our ships.” To further support travel advisor partners throughout the year, Windstar is announcing two new developments. Beginning in June 2024, all booking commissions will be paid 29 days prior to the cruise departure rather than after departure. In addition, travel advisors who are investing their time to learn about the brand by becoming Windstar Cruises Star Specialists will have the opportunity to earn back the cruise fare of their eligible FAM trip in the form of a future commission payment “Travel advisors are vital to our success at Windstar,” explains Windstar Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava. “We are happy to report that with a major upgrade on our reservation system nearly complete, we’ll be able to pay commissions to our advisors earlier. Our valued partners have requested this in our conversations, and now we’ll be able to fulfill it. Our success is tied together, and we must support each other.” Bava also said the line is launching a consumer campaign with messaging on the value of booking a Windstar cruise through a travel advisor. Windstar’s six ship fleet of boutique sailing, and all-suite yachts carry 148-342 guests and specialize in port-intensive itineraries mixing popular places on people’s bucket lists with smaller, scenic and less-visited towns easy to explore from the ship. The line recently announced the addition of two new small ships joining its fleet in December 2025 and December 2026.
Windstar Cruises and Pacific Beachcomber announce new collaboration
Windstar Cruises, the leader in small ship cruising in French Polynesia, 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. A hallmark of the expanded partnership is the addition of two-night stay packages at The Brando, Pacific Beachcomber’s exclusive private island eco-resort. The Brando has just 35 private villas, all located on white-sand beaches overlooking a five-mile-wide lagoon. The resort is frequented by celebrities and was named for the late Marlon Brando, who purchased the atoll in the 1960s. Guests of The Brando engage in snorkeling, bird watching, cultural and archaeological expeditions, and resort amenities such as the much-lauded Varua Te Ora Polynesian Spa. "This collaboration not only further enhances our commitment to providing unparalleled luxury and most romantic experiences for our guests in French Polynesia, but also allows us to extend the Windstar experience seamlessly from sea to land, providing our guests with exceptional hospitality throughout their journey," says Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises. Available from May 1, 2024, as a post-cruise add-on, this package is reserved exclusively for guests in Star Breeze’s top suites: the award-winning Broadmoor and Sea Island Suites, and Owner’s Suites. The experience includes daily excursions and spa treatments, beach equipment and more. Transfers on a plane to and from The Brando (a 20-minute flight from Papeete, where guests disembark from the cruise), are also included. Rates for the package are from $6,900 pp (based on double occupancy). Windstar has exclusively partnered with Pacific Beachcomber’s InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa in Papeete since February for convenient pre- and post-cruise stays on the island of Tahiti. The resort has also been incorporated into Windstar’s popular Air + Hotel packages from both Los Angeles and Seattle. "We are delighted to extend a warm invitation to Windstar Cruises’ guests to discover our secluded island havens, including The Brando, an eco-resort unlike any other nestled in the heart of French Polynesia. Together, we aim to deeply immerse our guests in the vibrant Polynesian culture and the untouched splendor of our natural surroundings," adds Richard Bailey, Chairman of Pacific Beachcomber. In Bora Bora at Pacific Beachcomber’s Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana, Windstar currently offers one-night overwater bungalow stays as an additional excursion for guests to book mid-cruise when overnighting on the island. Guests simply disembark from the ship and are whisked away to a romantic, overwater bungalow for the night – a bucket list desire for most visiting Tahiti.
Windstar Cruises brings back popular “Pick Your Perk” WAVE Offer
Windstar Cruises has announced its popular holiday season WAVE sale – Pick Your Perk. For a limited time, advisors can offer their clients who book voyages with Windstar Cruises exceptional savings and customized experiences while traveling to iconic destinations around the globe. Plus, advisors earn their own perks. Now through February 29, travelers are encouraged to “Pick Your Perk”: one free hotel night (which can be used pre- or post-cruise) OR up to $1,000 Onboard Credit, which can be used for Windstar’s award-winning shore excursions and adventures, spa services, or even special celebratory cocktails. Premium suite guests can select an upgrade to the All-Inclusive Fare which includes all alcohol, Wi-Fi, and all gratuities. The WAVE offer ends February 29, 2024. The holiday savings offer is good on all sailings through May 2026. Options include the Mediterranean (including first-ever sailings aboard Star Legend this winter season); the Caribbean; Greek Isles; Tahiti (with new experiences aboard the 312 guest, all-suite Star Breeze); and even the cruise line’s new destinations such as South America (with Galapagos and Machu Picchu) and the Canary Islands. "We have so many opportunities for travel advisors to increase their business with Windstar," shared Janet Bava, Chief Commercial Officer, Windstar Cruises. "Popular promotions like Pick your Perk are helpful to close sales, but this year we’ve also opened up new sailing regions to help bring clients back and attract new travelers." Holiday Gift Card or Bonus $$ - Advisors earn an extra $100 bonus commission or Amazon gift card (their choice) per each stateroom/suite booked by February 29 in any destination through 2026. If the booking is confirmed by December 31, 2023, the advisor earns an additional $50 Amazon gift card. Sell One & Sail Free – Advisors and a guest sail free in a suite for two on any Star Legend sailing in the Mediterranean this winter (through March 2024) when they book a client for a 2023-2024 Legendary Winter in the Mediterranean sailing; clients must be booked by December 31, 2023 to qualify. Star Advantage Groups - Earn a Tour Conductor credit for every 7 guests booked, plus receive $100 per guest bonus commission with every TC earned. Guests receive $100 per person shipboard credit, 10% savings on cruise fare and 15% deposit for the group. This offer is good through December 31, 2023 for all new Star Advantage Groups opened by this date. “We wanted to take advantage of holiday gatherings and travel advisors having the opportunity to prepare for wave season and offer the best possible savings to their clients,” said Bava. Star Collector Voyages of 13 days and longer receive complimentary laundry service. Windstar offers an All-Inclusive fare with unlimited alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi and all gratuities for $89 per guest, per day. Solo supplements have been waived or reduced on dozens of popular departures.
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