Itinerary
Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and more than twenty centuries of history. Following disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marques de Pombal who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and a great riverfront and square, Praça do Comércio. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections, combining great shopping with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city’s terraced hillsides. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.
Day itinerary:
The rhythm of Lisbon invites you to join its captivating dance. This splendid capital city on the banks of the Rio Teja offers a warm welcome and an unparalleled blend of architectural styles. Elegant outdoor cafés line the cobbled sidewalks. Turn-of-the-century funiculars climb the scenic hills. Find the UNESCO sites of the Tower of Belem and the Monastery of the Hieronymites. And, everywhere, the city engages you with its easy style and remarkable charm.
Formed by a volcanic eruption, Madeira lies in the Gulf Stream, about 500 miles due west of Casablanca. Discovered by Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco in 1419, this beautiful island became part of Portugal’s vast empire and was named for the dense forest which cloaked it – ‘Madeira’ means ‘wood’ in Portuguese. Sugar plantations first brought wealth here, and when King Charles II of England granted an exclusive franchise to sell wine to England and its colonies, many British emigrants were drawn to the capital, Funchal. Today’s travellers come to Madeira for the varied and luxuriant scenery, from mountain slopes covered with vines to picturesque villages and a profusion of wild flowers. The natural beauty of the island has earned it many pseudonyms such as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’, ‘The Island of Eternal Springtime’ and ‘God’s Botanical Gardens’ and our selection of excursions aim to show you why.
Day itinerary:
Considered one of Portugal’s main tourist attractions and home of world-famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, Funchal is known for its style and beauty. Visit Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe or take a trip to the Pica da Torre for an incredible view of Camara de Lobos, a delightful fishing village. With a long history of Madeira winemaking, there’ll be time here for a little wine tasting, a meal at one of the many 5-star restaurants, sightseeing to 15th century Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, shopping the bargains to be found here, or experiencing the vibrant night life.
Also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), La Palma is typified by lush forests of pine, laurel and fern which contrast with the rugged splendour of the gigantic Taburiente crater. The island is dotted with attractive villages, which are a delight to discover, and the capital Santa Cruz also makes for an interesting day of exploration. Perched on the edge of the volcanic crater of La Caldereta, Santa Cruz comfortably blends modern architecture with old colonial buildings. Perhaps visit the fascinating Natural History Museum, stroll around the historic quarters and the Plaza de Espana or travel a few miles outside the city to the exquisite Church of Our Lady. If you enjoy shopping, you can find reasonably priced silver jewellery, leather goods and beautifully embroidered clothes, tablecloths and napkins, a speciality of the Canary Islands.
Day itinerary:
Santa Cruz de Palma has a distinct Caribbean feel with its colorful houses and relaxed, casual feel. Walk along the cobblestone streets of this charming port that once was a connecting port on the route to the Americas. Learn about the town’s history at the Island Museum of La Palma located in a 16th century monastery and the Naval Museum housed in a full-sized reproduction of the Santa Maria. And see some of the 15 large telescopes along the ridge of Caldera del Taburieint National Park.
Day itinerary:
Though you won’t find canaries here you will find people who can whistle like them. Whistled speech helped shepherds communicate across the steep ravines and in the lush cloud forest of Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Columbus paused here on all three voyages so you’re in good company as you explore historic San Sebastián, but with all the natural beauty around, you’ll find your gaze drawn inexorably up the terraced hillsides and across to views of Mount Teide.
Perhaps the prettiest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is an almost circular isle with the peak of Pozo de Las Nieves, its highest point, at the centre. With a wealth of natural beauty and all the exciting attractions of city life in the capital, the island offers the best of both worlds. You will no doubt wish to see the sights of the capital’s old quarter, which dates back to the 15th century and encompassses the Vegueta and Triana districts, and wherever you go you can enjoy the glorious subtropical climate, perfect for growing exotic palms and fruits.
Day itinerary:
Magnificent scenery surrounds you in the capital of Gran Canaria. Two lovely bays and their beautiful beaches frame the city. The Vegueta District, the older quarter of the town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its historical and cultural treasures, dating back to the city’s founding in 1478.
The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a beautiful and scenic island which enjoys year-round sunshine and is dominated by Mount Teide. The mountain range runs through the centre of the island, with fertile valleys on the northern side. In the central part of the range is the gigantic natural crater of the Cañadas del Teide, about 14 miles in diameter. Santa Cruz, the island’s pretty capital, was originally a small fishing village but has now grown into a modern city, and also contains 16th-century civic buildings and ornate private mansions. Near the pier is the Santa Cruz Palmetum, a Botanical Garden covering an area of 29 acres, specialising in palms.
Day itinerary:
Here in this privileged setting you’ll discover two UNESCO World Heritage Site beaches of tantalizing beauty; San Cristóbal de La Laguna; and the island’s symbol, Teide National Park. Wide avenues, exotic landscapes, and striking examples of modernist architecture complete one of the world’s most popular destinations.
With an expansive 220 square feet, the Owner’s Suite gives you everything offered in a stateroom, plus lots more, including a beautiful sitting area and separate in-room dining space.
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
Here, the dining room manager seats you, but where is your decision. There are no pre-assigned tables or first or second seatings. When you dine and with whom are entirely up to you. Seating usually begins at 6:30 p.m. and will be printed in the ship’s daily program. Each delightful dish is prepared exactly to your liking – an exquisite dinner served course-by-course with a fine selection of vintage wines.
Here’s the perfect place for a romantic tête-a-tête under the stars in Candles, Windstar’s signature outdoor restaurant transformed by night into a dreamlike paradise. Delectable cuisine, memorable surroundings, inspired wine pairings.
It’s breakfast alfresco, full service or buffet-style, anytime till 9:30 a.m. No need to hurry. Again, the choices are many in Veranda. Choose the sumptuous, seemingly endless buffet. Or, order from the lunch menu between noon and 2:30 p.m.
Have you ever wanted to learn about rowing across the Atlantic or the inner workings of the Monte Carlo Grand Prix? On select Windstar voyages, satisfy your curiosity and enhance your understanding of the local culture by listening to our onboard lecturers. We’ve curated a group of speakers designed to bring you an insider’s perspective on a multitude of intriguing topics. Listen raptly as your voyage becomes more than just a vacation – and a thought-provoking exploration of enchanting lands.
Windstar Signature Expeditions is an immersive program that features 8 expert guides who stay on board throughout the voyage, giving informative talks and taking guests on optional adventures by foot, by kayak, or by Zodiac boat – sometimes launching straight from the ship in remote places like Misty Fjords and Kenai Fjords. It’s Alaska at its most authentic, exciting all your clients’ senses to its magnificence.
Delight your palette with onboard cooking demonstrations featuring James Beard Foundation chef recipes. From wild striped bass with tomato sage “fondue” to lobster risotto, our Windstar chefs will take your taste buds on a journey through local cuisine. For a special tantalizing treat, join Windstar on one of our voyages in the James Beard Foundation Culinary Cruise Collection, where a James Beard Foundation chef will show you how to elevate your own culinary skills. It’s a taste of enrichment you’ll never forget.
Wine tastings, SCUBA diving, tours with locals and more — Windstar offers a variety of unique excursions that will add more depth and immersion to every day of your journey. Each meticulously planned excursion meets our highest standard of quality in safety and professionalism. Ensure your peace of mind knowing that you’ll always make it back to the yacht on time.
Sailings with Windstar include a lot of special amenities, but one of our most fun (and unique) is the Watersports Platform, which allows guests easy access to the ocean around them.
The platform exists on each of our six yachts and includes unlimited use of all water sports equipment including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkel equipment, sailing, swimming, water skiing, and windsurfing. If that all sounds like too much work for your vacation, a large foam flotation island is often unfurled into the sea, allowing guests to lounge, casually swim, and take in the view around them.
Use of the Platform is always weather permitting and only takes place in certain ports during each of our journeys in select regions. (check with the crew once on board for more details on where and when the platform will be open).
And don’t forget, there’s NO need to bring snorkel equipment on many Windstar cruises! We provide complimentary masks, fins, and snorkels during your first afternoon on board, so you can take that equipment with you when you’d like to go exploring on your own (or with a designated shore excursion). It even comes in a handy mesh bag. One less thing you have to pack when heading to paradise!
Onboard entertainment facilities include: library, casino, The Lounge, and Signature Shop.
Sun Loungers can be found on Deck Four.
The Pool can be found on Deck Four.
The Pool Bar can be found on Deck Four.
The Reception can be found on the Deck Four.
Onboard Health & Fitness facilities include a whirlpool, fitness centre, swimming pool and watersports platform.
As you enter the hushed atmosphere of the newly-expanded WindSpa, you’ll feel every last care gently melt away. Maybe you’ll try a Hydralift facial or a new colour on your toes. Maybe you’ll surrender to the transformative power of a relaxing massage. With one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios at sea, you will find yourself in the enviable position of never having to lift a finger.
The crew is happy to do whatever they can to make your time onboard as pampered as possible. Please book spa appointments with the hotel manager once you’ve boarded your yacht.
Windstar does not discriminate against persons on the basis of disability. We seek, to the extent feasible, to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. There are no elevators on Wind Star and Wind Spirit nor were the ships originally constructed to be wheelchair accessible. As a result, these ships may be unsuitable for people relying solely on wheelchairs. The other yachts are equipped with elevators, but staterooms on Wind Surf are not wheelchair accessible. Also note, there is no elevator access to board the ship. Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend have modified wheelchair accessible suites available.
Certain ports require the ship to anchor; in this case guests must be ferried into port. Service Dogs are permitted onboard ships if prior arrangements have been made at time of booking. In limited situations where an individual with a disability would be unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services, we may find it necessary to ask the individual to make alternative travel arrangements. It is essential that Windstar is notified of any special medical, physical or other requirements you may have at the time of booking.
The less you bring the better. We suggest clothes that are light, cool, and made of natural fabrics like cotton and silk. You may wish to bring warmer clothing (layers are best), if you are traveling on an Ocean Crossing or an autumn Mediterranean cruise.
The Dress Code – from 7 am – 6 pm guests are welcome to dress as they please with the exception of no swimwear in all public lounges and restaurants and no clothing with offensive language or graphics that distract from the comfort and well-being of others. The general shipboard style is elegant, but relaxed including jeans and Bermuda/ walking shorts.
In the evening – after 6 pm when dining in Amphora, Stella Bistro or Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, the dress code is country club-type clothing. For men – nice slacks, polo shirts, button down shirts, shoes other than athletic shoes. Designer denim jeans without rips or holes or are multi-colored are also acceptable. Sport coats are optional. Ties are not needed. For women – nice pants, skirts, tops, casual dresses, sundresses, nice sandals or casual shoes and designer denim dress jeans not ripped or multi-colored or having holes. Blazers are optional.
No assigned seating in Amphora or Veranda restaurants. And what can be more casual than merely signing for onboard purchases? You will feel like this is your ship, your personal yacht. The environment inspires the attitude. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board.
For those guests traveling to Alaska, it’s important to wear the right gear. We have partnered with the leading expedition outfitter to offer an online Alaska clothing and accessories service that ships directly to your ship. You’ll find all the right gear for Alaska, packing lists, clothing tips and our limited-edition Alaska inaugural season jacket here..
Passengers under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 25 years old. One adult chaperone is required for every 5 people under 21. Parents, guardians, and chaperones are responsible for overseeing the onboard conduct of minors. Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under age 21.
Windstar Cruises is unable to accommodate children under eight (8) years of age. Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone in their stateroom or suite who is at least 25 years old; one adult (age 25 or older) chaperone is required for every five (5) people under 21.
While all non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary, you may enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail under the setting sun or a champagne toast at the evening Sail Away with our beverage packages for wine, beer, cocktails and more. Find the perfect wine pairing with your meal and then end the night sipping scotch as you contemplate the stars.
Topmast Discoveries Beer & Wine Package – $49 per person per day An extensive package of diverse and intriguing wines from traditional European winegrowing terroirs to New World regions. Includes domestic and imported beer and 33 varieties of wine by the glass.
Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package – $59 per person per day The ultimate beverage package and the perfect way to try new drinks for a bit of added adventure. Includes all domestic and imported beers and 33 varieties of wine/sparkling/champagne by the glass PLUS cordials, liqueurs, apertifs, cocktails and even mini bar items. (Cocktails based on house & select brands)
The All-In Package – From $79 per person per day. Have it all by making it an all-inclusive voyage with unlimited beer, wine & cocktails, unlimited Wi-Fi and gratuities, including the 15% beverage service charge. A convenient bundle that saves time and money, pays most of your expenses upfront and avoids the European VA Tax when pre-purchased. The All-In Package is sold per person and must be purchased up to 7 days prior to departure at $79.
The Topmast, Captain’s Exclusive and $89 All-In Packages are sold per person and must be purchased in advance or during the first 2 days of your cruise and for the full duration of the cruise. Prices for the Topmast and Captain’s Exclusive Packages do not include the standard 15% beverage service charge. Package prices are inclusive of applicable taxes. The minimum drinking age aboard Windstar Cruises is 21 years old.
Laundry service is provided on board at a nominal charge. Dry cleaning is not available. Laundry Service Packages must be added by the first day of the cruise and will be priced by the total number of cruise days. Pricing is inclusive of applicable taxes.
- All meals in all venues at all times, including room service menu available 24 hours
- All non-alcoholic beverages, including cappuccino, espresso, and other specialty non-alcoholic drinks
- Welcome cocktails at reception
- All onboard entertainment
- Unlimited use of Fitness Center
- Unlimited use of all water sports equipment
- Informative nightly port talks and destination briefings
Here at Windstar we are committed to offering our guests healthy food selections. We offer vegetarian selections and lighter fare options, seeking to provide the freshest, top quality foods handled with the utmost care. If you have food allergies or special dietary needs, there are several ways to notify us prior to boarding the ship.
It’s important to let us know about your special request when you book your cruise to help us plan and prepare for your meals. Your travel professional will enter this information in Special Requests. It is then noted on your booking and your ship will be notified, although it will not appear on your invoice or in My Windstar.
Special Request Dietary Needs include:
- Alcohol Free
- Celiac
- Dairy Free
- Diabetic – Diet Controlled
- Diabetic – Insulin Controlled
- Food Allergy
- Gluten Free
- Lactose Intolerant
- Low Carbohydrate
- Low Cholesterol
- Low Protein
- Low Sodium
- Other Dietary
- Sugar Free
- Vegan
- Vegetarian
- Wheat Free Diet
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate Kosher or Halal meals. If you have specific dietary needs– such as – lactose intolerant requiring almond milk – please complete a Special Requirements Information Form. Return this information via:
1. Mail to Windstar Vacation Planning at 2101 4th Ave., Suite 210, Seattle WA 98121
2. Fax to 206-733-2790
3. Call 866-568-0982 to speak with a Vacation Planner in person
4. Send an email to info@windstarcruises.com
When you embark the ship please feel free to ask to speak with the Executive Chef about your specific request.
If you have any additional questions or concerns please call us during business hours at 866-568-0982.
Smoking or vaping is not permitted in any of the staterooms, suites, or public spaces, including all restaurants and corridors. Smoking and vaping is permitted on the outside decks in designated smoking areas only. Smoking cigars is permitted in a specific designated area on each yacht, however, only sold on board the Cigar Room of Wind Surf.
Windstar Cruises offers full internet capabilities, depending on course and position of the ship, as well as wireless internet service on all ships. Wi-Fi access is possible in most public areas, staterooms, and suites.
Internet Usage Plans
The Email Plan $60
This plan gives you 200 MB of data to use during your cruise. This plan is recommended for people who will be checking email and doing very limited browsing. The estimated minutes range from 15 to 60.
The Surfing Plan $120
This plan gives you 500 MB of data to use for additional browsing and small file transfers (such as posting pictures to a social media site). The estimated minutes range from 90 to 360 (approximately 5 hours).
The Unlimited Plan
Unlimited Internet Package
- 7 Day Cost $250
- 8 Day Cost $280
- 9 Day Cost $315
- 10 Day Cost $350
- 11 Day Cost $385
- 14 Day Cost $490
- 15 Day Cost $525
- Bridge
- Bridge
- Veranda/Candles
- Pool / Pool Bar / Whirlpool
- Amphora Restaurant
- Star Boutique
- Reception
- Library
- WindSpa
- Lounge
- Yacht Club Café
- Watersports Platform
- Fitness Centre
- Category A Cabins
- Category AX Deluxe Cabins
- Owner’s Suite
- Category B Cabins
- Category BX Deluxe Cabins
Get in touch with our team to start planning
Call and speak to a member of our experienced team today on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.
Alternatively, leave your details and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.