Windstar Star Explorer and Star Seeker Cruises

Windstar Cruises has announced a major expansion of its all-yacht fleet, unveiling details for both the upcoming Star Explorer and the recently introduced all-suite Star Seeker. Led by President Christopher Prelog, the company aims to enhance off-peak, immersive travel with extended winter programming in Europe and exclusive ship meetup events in the Caribbean, reinforcing Windstar’s commitment to intimate, luxury-focused cruising experiences throughout the year.

Star Explorer to Launch in Winter 2026–27

The highly anticipated Star Explorer is scheduled to debut on December 28, 2026, marking Windstar’s fourth consecutive winter season in the Mediterranean and expanding the fleet to eight yachts. “For us, it means visiting places like Naples and Genoa, which we only do between October and March, and spending more time in cities like Venice, Livorno and Barcelona, with overnight stays that let you get the local perspective,” Prelog said in an email to guests.

Designed with 112 suites, including two Horizon Owners Suites featuring wraparound balconies, the ship exemplifies Windstar’s small-ship approach with a focus on space and destination immersion. Jess Peterson, Windstar’s director of destination experience and itinerary planning, noted that “winter is when the Mediterranean slows down, providing an opportunity for guests to see these legendary places with fewer crowds.” The planned ports of call include Florence (via Livorno), Barcelona, Genoa, Catania, Málaga, and Nice, with special events such as Carnevale in Venice and Epiphany celebrations in Greece.

Inaugural Itineraries and Extended Stays

Windstar has confirmed multiple itineraries for Star Explorer’s launch, all designed to showcase notable European destinations during the quieter winter months. Among these are:

• The Star Explorer’s Inaugural Voyage: Southern Spain Winter Escapes (9 nights) – Focuses on Barcelona and Málaga, with an optional Madrid & Southern Spain Cruise Tour.
• Europe’s Winter Riviera (7 nights) – Includes overnights in Florence and Barcelona, plus visits to Tuscany and Genoa.
• Winter Italy and the Dalmatian Coast (8 nights) – Features Venice’s canals, Pompeii’s archaeological sites, and winter festivities in Dubrovnik.
• Star Collector Voyages (13+ nights) – Combine back-to-back segments for extended explorations, with an optional Madrid Cruise Tour.

Overnight port calls allow more time for local exploration, and the off-peak scheduling aims to reduce crowd levels while preserving iconic cultural experiences.

Star Seeker: Caribbean Debut and Ship Meetups

Launching in December 2025, the all-suite Star Seeker will begin its journey in the Caribbean before transitioning to other destinations. Prelog revealed that Windstar plans special ship meetup events to enhance the guest experience. These interactive events include New Year’s Eve fireworks in Tenerife with the Wind Star, a joint January 21 beach barbecue in Virgin Gorda with the Wind Spirit, a sunset parade past the Pitons on March 18 with the Star Pride and Wind Spirit, and docking with the Wind Surf in St. Johns, Antigua on March 29. Guests will also have the opportunity to tour the Star Seeker during these meetups at no additional cost.

Booking Offers and Payment Incentives

Windstar has opened reservations for Star Explorer with an Early Booking Offer available through July 31, 2025. This package includes Wi-Fi, unlimited select wine, beer, cocktails, and gratuities, valued at over $1,300 per stateroom on a seven-day voyage. Guests can also receive up to $200 in onboard credit and benefit from an additional five percent discount when paying in full at the time of booking. Similar incentives apply to longer Star Collector Voyages, which combine multiple itineraries for enhanced regional exploration.

Fleet Expansion Context

Star Explorer follows the recent introduction of Star Seeker, reflecting Windstar’s strategy to offer more overnight stays, off-peak sailings, and immersive local experiences. “It’s a huge milestone,” Prelog said, underscoring the brand’s ongoing commitment to small-ship luxury and destination-focused voyages. With an expanded fleet and growing winter program, Windstar continues to position itself as the premier choice for travelers seeking authentic regional encounters with fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When does Star Explorer make its debut?

Star Explorer is set to launch on December 28, 2026, offering winter 2026–27 itineraries in iconic Mediterranean ports.

What itineraries are available at launch?

Travelers can choose from nine-night Southern Spain Winter Escapes, seven-night Europe’s Winter Riviera, and eight-night Winter Italy and the Dalmatian Coast routes. Extended Star Collector Voyages of 13 nights or more combine back-to-back segments.

Why focus on a winter Mediterranean season?

According to Windstar executives, the winter season offers reduced crowd levels and a more authentic local atmosphere in famous destinations such as Venice, Barcelona, and Florence, enabling travelers to fully immerse themselves in each city’s culture.

Are there special offers for early bookings?

Yes. Through July 31, 2025, Windstar’s Early Booking Offer includes all-inclusive amenities, up to $200 in onboard credit, and a five percent fare discount for full-payment bookings.

What is unique about the Star Seeker’s Caribbean launch?

The Star Seeker debuts in December 2025 with interactive ship meetup events, including New Year’s Eve fireworks in Tenerife with the Wind Star, a joint January 21 beach barbecue in Virgin Gorda with the Wind Spirit, a sunset parade past the Pitons on March 18 with the Star Pride and Wind Spirit, and docking with the Wind Surf in St. Johns, Antigua on March 29. Guests will also have the opportunity to tour the Star Seeker during these meetups at no extra cost.

With both Star Explorer and Star Seeker advancing Windstar’s dedication to small-ship travel, the cruise line continues to focus on off-peak experiences, extended port stays, and personalized activities that showcase the cultural richness of each destination.