Wind Star: Classic Maritime Elegance

Wind Star is a unique vessel that combines the elegance of a sailing yacht with the practicality of a motor-sailer. It can accommodate up to 148 guests across four decks and is one of three yachts operated by Windstar Cruises. While it has engines for easier cruising, its towering white sails offer a graceful and smooth sailing experience. The ship underwent a major renovation at the end of 2023, which brought several upgrades. These include a revitalized lobby, a new pool, a larger pool bar, a redesigned spa, and a spacious lounge that enhances the onboard experience.

In 2026, Wind Star will embark on a variety of exciting voyages, including trips to the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, and the Panama Canal. This makes it an attractive option for travelers looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Overall Score: 7/10
Style and Character: 7/10

Wind Star is a four-masted sailing ship that offers a more private and intimate experience compared to traditional cruise ships. Its small capacity ensures a personalized atmosphere, and the service is consistently excellent. The interior décor is simple yet contemporary, featuring rich wood tones and polished surfaces that evoke a classic maritime feel. The open teak decks provide numerous hidden nooks where guests can enjoy quiet moments or take in the views.

Cabins: 7/10

The cabins on Wind Star are well-designed despite having portholes instead of balconies. They are of decent size and make efficient use of space, featuring a seating area and ample storage options such as double wardrobes, chest of drawers, and recessed shelves. The bathrooms, while compact, are cleverly designed with round recesses for the shower and toilet, making them feel more spacious than they actually are. There are also plenty of shelves for storing personal items.

Food and Drink: 7/10

Wind Star offers two main dining venues. Breakfast and lunch are served in Veranda, where guests can choose from a buffet or an à la carte menu. Daily specials and regular dishes are available to cater to different tastes. Dinner is served in the main restaurant, Amphora, which features a changing menu of classic gourmet dishes. All dining is open seating with no set times, allowing guests to dine whenever they prefer.

Veranda transforms into Candles at night, offering a more casual dining experience with skewers and grills. For those who enjoy al fresco dining, the pool deck becomes a highlight with an impressive barbecue setup featuring various food stations and displays. The wine list is extensive, with a wide selection of international wines. Favorites include albariño and French pinot noir, which pair well with the onboard cuisine.

Service and Facilities: 8/10

The service on Wind Star is exceptional. From the warm and knowledgeable reception team to the attentive wait staff who remember guests’ preferences, every interaction contributes to a memorable experience. The cabin stewards pay close attention to detail, ensuring that each guest feels comfortable and well-cared for.

Facilities on board are limited due to the ship’s smaller size, but they are well-maintained. There is a compact library, a lounge, a small gym, a spa, and a pool deck with a bar area. Despite the limited space, there is always room to find a comfortable seat. The spa is particularly noteworthy, offering a range of treatments and skilled therapists. Each morning, guests can enjoy taster massages and eye treatments.

One of the standout features of Wind Star is the marina located at the back of the ship. Designed as a swim platform, it opens when the ship is anchored in calm waters, allowing guests to use paddleboards, large lounging inflatables, and trampolines.

Entertainment and Excursions: 7/10

An excellent singing duo provides entertainment every evening, performing during sail away and after dinner. On smaller ships like Wind Star, the crew often takes on additional roles, such as leading quizzes and line dancing activities. Guests can visit the bridge at any time and participate in a galley tour or take photos on the bowsprit.

At each port of call, there are a variety of excursions available, ranging from walking tours and coach explorations to specialized activities like wine tastings. The destination manager provides useful information about the next day’s stop, helping guests plan their experiences.

Value for Money: 7/10

Wind Star offers an All-In package that includes Wi-Fi, gratuities, and select alcoholic drinks, starting at $99 (£74) per person per day. This is a great value for those who enjoy trying new wines and cocktails. Shore excursions start at $79 (£59) per person, providing additional flexibility for guests to explore local attractions.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

Wind Star does not have an elevator, which makes it unsuitable for guests with limited mobility. The cruise is designed for adults, and children under eight years old are not allowed. There is no designated childcare, supervised activities, or children’s menus, making it less ideal for families with younger children.