The Authentic Cruise Company

Itinerary

Day 1: Reykjavík
Day 2: Grundarfjørdur
Day 3: Isafjørdur
Day 4: Akureyri
Day 5: Seydisfjørdur
Day 6: Seydisfjørdur
Day 7: Heimaey Island
Day 8: Reykjavík
Day 1: Reykjavík

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation’s nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island’s population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík’s name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there’s no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city’s seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Day itinerary:

The world’s most northerly capital enjoys almost 24-hour sunlight in summer, all the better to show off the city’s eclectic architecture and dazzling natural wonders. Soak in the milky Blue Lagoon, visit Guilfoss Waterfall, find Pingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , or explore the surprisingly vibrant local museum and art scene.

Day 2: Grundarfjørdur

Day itinerary:

Beautiful Grundarfjordur is located between a mountain range and the sea. The road nearby crosses a lava field that is partially warm so snow does not always stick there. The main attraction of the area is Snæfellsjokull National Park full of regal glaciers, lava fields, waterfalls, caves, calderas, and basalt cliffs. The peninsula there received the EARTHCHECK Sustainable Community Award in 2010, the first area in Iceland to win such an award.

Day 3: Isafjørdur

Two colossal terraces of sheer rock stand either side of this extraordinarily located town – which rides a jutting spit onto an immensity of black fjord water. Surprisingly, considering the remoteness of its location and its compact size, Isafjordur is a modern and lively place to visit, offering a great choice of cafes and delicious restaurants – which are well stocked to impress visitors. The town is a perfectly located base for adventures amongst Iceland’s fantastic wilderness – with skiing, hiking and water-sports popular pursuits among visitors.

Day itinerary:

Small and easily walkable Isafjordur has one of the largest fisheries in Iceland. But the sever decline of the fishing industry has caused Isafjordur to look elsewhere for work. Despite its small size, this town has a school of music and has become a center for alternative music and they host a yearly festival that provides a platform for local musicians, band from around Iceland and the world to perform.

Day 4: Akureyri

Akureyri, called the Capital of the North is the second largest urban area in Iceland, and a lively one at that. Hemmed by the 60-km (37-mile) long Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is sheltered from the ocean winds and embraced by mountains on three sides. Late 19th-century wooden houses impart a sense of history, and the twin spires of a modern Lutheran church rising on a green hill near the waterfront, provide a focal point. To the south of Akureyri is the pyramid-shape rhyolite mountain Súlur. Beyond it is Kerling, the highest peak in Eyjafjörður District.

Day itinerary:

Akureyri is an important port and fisheries center especially because of its ice-free harbor so close to the Arctic Circle. It lies at the end of Iceland’s longest fjord, which is 37 miles long, at sits at the base of snowcapped peaks that offer some of Iceland’s best skiing during the winter. Must-sees in Akureyri include the Listagil (art canyon) which is home to many arts and crafts galleries and shops, the beautiful church in the center of town, the botanical garden, and Hafnarstraeti, the main shopping street.This is also the perfect place to ride an Icelandic horse or soak in the sky-blue Myvatn Nature Baths.

Day 5: Seydisfjørdur

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a ‘pearl enclosed in a shell’. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

Day itinerary:

Seydisfjord is 11 miles of long, narrow, beautiful waterway surrounded by high mountains that ends at the town of Seydisfjordur, known for its old multi-colored wooden buildings and cascading waterfalls even in the town. This is home of the Skalanes Nature Reserve with its wide variety of wildlife including more than 45 bird species. The first high-voltage electricity in Iceland was opened here in 1913 and is still in operation today. A popular hiking path starts at the town center, following the east bank of the Fjardara River that flows through the center of town.

Day 6: Seydisfjørdur

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a ‘pearl enclosed in a shell’. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

Day itinerary:

Seydisfjord is 11 miles of long, narrow, beautiful waterway surrounded by high mountains that ends at the town of Seydisfjordur, known for its old multi-colored wooden buildings and cascading waterfalls even in the town. This is home of the Skalanes Nature Reserve with its wide variety of wildlife including more than 45 bird species. The first high-voltage electricity in Iceland was opened here in 1913 and is still in operation today. A popular hiking path starts at the town center, following the east bank of the Fjardara River that flows through the center of town.

Day 7: Heimaey Island

It’s hard to imagine, as you stroll Heimaey’s idyllic streets of white wooden houses, that this island was literally torn apart by a spectacular volcanic eruption, just over 40 years ago. The fact that you can visit incredible Heimaey at all is something of a miracle – because the oozing lava of the Eldfell volcano threatened to seal the harbour off completely. Fortunately, its advance was halted by gallons of seawater, pumped onto it by the plucky islanders, who saved their fishing industry in the process. Iceland’s famous for its scenery, and the huge castles of volcanic rock that rise out of the sea’s waves here are some of the country’s most dramatic.

Day itinerary:

Witness a world still in transition. Circle Surtsey Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which rose from the sea in the 1960s. Next up, Heimaey, where a volcanic eruption created a modern-day Pompeii in 1973.

Day 8: Reykjavík

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation’s nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island’s population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík’s name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there’s no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city’s seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Day itinerary:

The world’s most northerly capital enjoys almost 24-hour sunlight in summer, all the better to show off the city’s eclectic architecture and dazzling natural wonders. Soak in the milky Blue Lagoon, visit Guilfoss Waterfall, find Pingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , or explore the surprisingly vibrant local museum and art scene.

Grand Owner's Suite Midship
Owner's Suite Midship
Star Porthole Suite
Owner's Suite Foward
Classic Suites
Deluxe Suite
Gracious Balcony
Star Balcony Suite
Ocean View Suite
Star Ocean View Suite
Sea Island Suite
Broadmoor Suite
Grand Owner's Suite Midship

The Owner’s Suite Midship combines with the adjoining suite for a three bedroom and three bath suite totalling 1,374 square feet. Bring your friends and share the suite like a villa, or luxuriate with just the two of you for accommodations as unique as your travels. There’s no other suite like this at sea.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Owner's Suite Midship

A stunning brand new owner’s suites with 820 square feet of space featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a verandah, and plenty of space in the sitting area for entertaining. This is the most sought after suite on the entire ship and once you stay here, you’ll never stay anywhere else.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Star Porthole Suite

These rooms represent a nod the sailing tradition of porthole windows. And while sailors might have had cramped quarters, your 277 square foot stateroom is wonderfully spacious and furnished with all the modern amenities and comforts of home.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Owner's Suite Foward

With 575 square feet, your Owner’s Suite offers separate living room and dining areas. A veranda, two interactive TVs, and a full master bath and separate powder room indulge you in spacious comfort.

*Please note this suite has a shower only

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Classic Suites

Relax in 400 to 530 spacious square feet. Your living area offers beautiful views from the forward-facing window and French doors onto your private veranda. Two spacious closets give you plenty of room to unpack.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Deluxe Suite

Brand new Deluxe Suites welcome you with 468 square feet of casually elegant living space and an ocean viewing French balcony. All these suites feature 3rd berths, and a sleep-inducing queen bed easily converted to twins.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Gracious Balcony

Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 277 square feet. Your queen bed (which can be separated as twins if you prefer) features luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers, savour a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Star Balcony Suite

As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted with an open living area for a more welcoming entrance. Drift off to sleep by the window in your queen bed as you watch the same stars that sailors used to navigate the seas hundreds of years ago.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Ocean View Suite

Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 277 square feet. Your queen bed (which can be separated as twins if you prefer) features luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers, savour a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.

Four suites with ocean view are modified accessible; they feature a shower with a small lip into shower, a step into the bathroom with a portable ramp, standard interior and exterior doorways.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Star Ocean View Suite

As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted with an open living area for a more welcoming entrance. Drift off to sleep by the window in your queen bed as you watch the same stars that sailors used to navigate the seas hundreds of years ago.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Sea Island Suite

Available March 2024

This suite will offer a coastal airy space with curved arches, lovely “hardwood” floors, gorgeous inset carpeting, light walls, and white trim with black finishes. New antique-style furnishings and custom wallpapers have been specially commissioned in the resort’s style. You’ll never see a TV at Sea Island (they are all tucked away in cabinets), so you won’t see one in this suite, either. Historical black and white images of Sea Island will be on display.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Broadmoor Suite

Available March 2024

Inspired by the design of The Broadmoor, the suite offers a traditional space with classic furniture, floral motifs, white trim with gold finishes, and wide crown moulding. New furnishings, and wall sconces have been specially commissioned in the resort’s style. The striking wallpaper used in the suite’s walk-in closet is an exact replica of the wallpaper used throughout The Broadmoor. The resort’s signature carpeting, with shades of light blue, brown, yellow and gold, was also recreated for the space. Historical black and white images of The Broadmoor will be on display.

Newly Redesigned Restrooms

We re-imagined our restrooms to provide you a private oasis within your own room.

All Accommodations Feature

  • Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
  • Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
  • Interactive TV
  • Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
  • Safe
  • Direct Dial Phone
  • L’Occitane Bath Amenities
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
  • Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
  • Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
  • Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Amphora Restaurant
The Yacht Club
Candles Restaurant
Veranda
Star Grill by Steven Raichlen
Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso
Amphora Restaurant

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.

The Yacht Club

Certainly a Windstar favourite, The Yacht Club is the perfect place if you want to enjoy some casual dining. Serving gourmet sandwiches, snacks and beverages, all the food is prepared to your liking and is presented in impeccable Windstar style.

Candles Restaurant

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.

Veranda

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.

Star Grill by Steven Raichlen

You’ll find all your traditional grilled and barbecued favourites (and discover new dishes from around the world) in our new casual outdoor restaurant brought to you in partnership with global grilling authority, Steven Raichlen.

Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso

Savour flavours of Spanish local culture as you dine in intimate surroundings that encourage sharing and camaraderie by ten-time Michelin-starred Chef Anthony Sasso. With seating for 38 including a chef’s counter and communal table, it’s an inventive take on modern Spanish cuisine. (Coming Soon, Star Plus Class ships only)

Guest Lecturers
Windstar Signature Expeditions
Culinary Demonstrations
Shore Excursions
Watersports Platform
Guest Lecturers

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

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.

Culinary Demonstrations

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.

Shore Excursions

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.

Watersports Platform

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!

Compass Rose
The Yacht Club
The Lounge
Screening Room
Compass Rose

Compass Rose can be found on Deck 6.

The Yacht Club

The Yacht Club can be found on Deck 8.

The Lounge

The Lounge can be found on Deck 5.

Screening Room

The ship’s card room is now the new Star Screening Room, where guests can view current movies.

WindSpa
Pool
WindSpa

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 color 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 we can to make your time on board as pampered as possible. Please book spa appointments with the hotel manager once you’ve boarded your yacht.

Pool

The Pool can be found on the Sun Deck.

Guests With Disabilities
Age Restrictions
Dress Code
Premium Beverage Package
Personal Onboard Laundry Service
Your Windstar Voyage Includes
Food Allergies and Special Dietary Needs
Smoking Policy
Internet/Wifi Access
Guests With Disabilities

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.

Age Restrictions

Windstar Cruises is unable to accommodate children under eight (8) years of age. All Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 21 years old. Parents, guardians, and chaperones are responsible for overseeing the onboard conduct of minors. Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under age 21.

For family groups booking multiple staterooms, the minimum age for at least one person in each stateroom is 18 years of age, provided they are traveling with a parent, guardian or chaperone.

Dress Code

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..

Premium Beverage Package

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.

Personal Onboard Laundry Service

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.

Your Windstar Voyage Includes

  • 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

Food Allergies and Special Dietary Needs

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 Policy

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.

Internet/Wifi Access

As part of our onboard service we offer internet access on our ships. We recently modified our internet usage packages from minutes to the amount of data used.

How does internet access at home differ from access at sea?

As with all ship communications, the internet service is operated through satellites. While you are most likely used to a fast internet connection at home, in hotels or other local Wi-Fi spots, internet at sea can be slow, and at times, disruptive. The only option available is satellite connection, which is costly and limits the amount of data used. The connection is also influenced by weather, the movement of the ship, and in the case of our sailing ships, blockage from our sails passing in front of the satellite dish.

It is not recommended for downloading movies or large files due to system speed. In some areas the service can be interrupted by weather or the ship’s position. We recommend that guests use the service only for emails or small files.

Why did the Internet Usage Plan change from minutes to megabytes?

Windstar modified the Internet Usage Plan in order to provide guests with the ability to access the same number of sites and/or read the same number of emails, regardless of connection speed. The previous plan was based on the number of minutes the guest was accessing the internet, regardless of connection speed. At times, factors like bad weather, ship speed, overcast conditions, all contributed to slow and/or disrupted connections.

What is a megabyte (MB)?

Any file, whether it’s a spreadsheet, word document, or email, takes up electronic storage space, otherwise known as bytes. The larger the file, the greater the number of bytes. The standard increment of measurement is bytes, kilobytes (1000 bytes), megabytes (1,000,000 bytes) and gigabytes (1,000,000,000, bytes).

As a frame of reference, an 80-word email is around 10 kilobytes, while a typical web page is approximately 1 megabyte.

What type of Internet Usage Plans are available?

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 $245
  • 8 Day Cost $280
  • 9 Day Cost $315
  • 10 Day Cost $350
  • 11 Day Cost $385
  • 14 Day Cost $490
  • 15 Day Cost $525

This plan gives you unlimited internet access. You have no worries about how much time you spend on the internet.

How can I get internet access on board?

Guests can purchase Internet Usage Plans prior to their cruise through a Vacation Planner or on board at Reception. These plans can be used on personal laptops or smart devises that are Wi-Fi enabled.

Computers for public use are available on board.

* Please Note: All packages only allow for one device at a time to be connected to the internet.

Please contact a Vacation Planner if you have questions.

Deck 8
Deck 7
Deck 6
Deck 5
Deck 4
Deck 3
Deck 8
  • Yacht Club Café & Library (1)
  • Star Bar (2)
  • Star Grill by Steven Raichlen (3)
Deck 7
  • Bridge (4)
  • World Spa by Windstar (5)
  • Fitness Centre and Motion Studio (6)
  • Pool and Whirlpool (7)
  • Veranda/Candles (8)
Deck 6
  • Star Boutique (9)
  • Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso (10)
  • Compass Rose (11)
  • Owner’s Suites
  • Star Porthole Suites
  • Star Balcony Suites
  • Deluxe Suite
  • Star Ocean View Suites
  • Balcony Suites
  • Owner’s Suite
Deck 5
  • Whirlpool (12)
  • Reception (13)
  • Destination Office (14)
  • Screening Room (15)
  • Lounge (16)
  • Classic Suites
  • Ocean View Suites
  • Balcony Suites
  • Deluxe Suite
  • Star Balcony Suite
  • Star Ocean View Suite
  • Ocean View Suite – Accessible Suites (548, 550)
Deck 4
  • Star Ocean View Suites
  • Balcony Suite
  • Ocean View Suites – Accessible Suites (448,450)
  • Deluxe Suite
Deck 3
  • Watersports Platform (18)
  • Amphora Restaurant (17)
  • Medical Facility (19)
  • Star Porthole Suites

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.