Bangkok, also known as the City of Angels and Venice of the East thrills with energy. There’s such a vast array of sightseeing, shopping, and eating possibilities that you’ll have little time to rest. When you do find a moment, pamper yourself with spa treatments, skyline-view bars, luxurious hotels, and excellent restaurants. The city is a mesmerizing blend of old and new, East and West, and dizzying contradictions. Temples and red-light districts, languid canals and permanent gridlock, streetside vendors and chic upscale eateries, all make their home together, all at the same time. Bangkok rarely fails to make an impression, and yes, you might need to go spend a few days on the beach to recover from it all. Although Bangkok is not known for jaw-dropping tourist attractions, it does have an endless supply of worthwhile pilgrimages. The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and the Emerald Buddha are tops on every visitor’s itinerary, and lesser-known temples, such as Wat Benjamabophit, the golden stupa of Wat Sakhet, and Wat Suthat, are all worthy of a stop. Besides temples, there are plenty of other interesting niches and touring possibilities to fit just about every interest. Take in a venom extraction and python feeding show at the Queen Saowapha Snake Farm, or go to the nearby Jim Thompson House to learn all about the famed Thai silk industry. If architecture is your forte, there is the Suan Pakkard Palace with its antique teak house collection, and the even more astounding Vimanmek Palace, which contains the world’s largest golden teak building. Bangkok’s Chinatown merits at least a day on every travel itinerary—be sure to check out the sprawling labyrinthine Flower and Thieves markets. Thai food is unrivaled for spice, taste, and variation. From multicourse meals to small street vendors, the one constant here is fresh and delicious at every level. You can have superlative roast duck or wonton noodles on a street corner for lunch and then be dining on world-class chef creations in the Oriental or Shangri-La hotels for supper. It doesn’t have to be all spicy Thai either, as Bangkok is home to excellent French, Italian, and other world cuisines, and you need a few years just to make a dent in all the options that are available. The Old City is a major destination for travelers, as it’s home to opulent temples like Wat Po and Wat Phra Kaew. Across the river is Thonburi, a mostly residential neighborhood, where you can find Wat Arun. At the northern tip of the Old City is Banglamphu, one of Bangkok’s older residential neighborhoods. It’s best known now for Khao San Road, a backpacker hangout, though the neighborhood has much more to offer, especially when it comes to street food. North of Banglamphu is Dusit, the royal district since the days of Rama V. East of the Old City is Chinatown, a labyrinth of streets with restaurants, shops, and warehouses. Farther down the Chao Phraya River is bustling Silom Road, one of the city’s major commercial districts. Patpong, the city’s most famous of several red-light districts, is also here. Bang Rak is home to some of the city’s leading hotels: the Mandarin Oriental, the Peninsula, the Royal Orchid Sheraton, and the Shangri-La. To the north of Rama IV Road is Bangkok’s largest green area, Lumphini Park. Continue north and you reach Sukhumvit Road, once a residential area. More recently, Thong Lor, farther east along Sukhumvit, has become the “in” neighborhood for those want to see and be seen. The Nana and Asok areas of Sukhumvit are now home to the even busier red-light entertainment districts (Nana and Soi Cowboy) than Patpong.
Known for its beautiful ornate shrines and temples and vibrant street life, Bangkok is one of the top cities in the world to visit. Your ship is docked as close to Bangkok as any ship can get. Highlights include the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and the Floating Market. Extend your stay to include the overland Angkor Wat/Cambodia tour.
Cruising the Chao Phraya River offers a scenic journey through Bangkok, providing stunning views of historic temples, grand palaces, and vibrant local life along the riverbanks.
Koh Samui is the most popular tourist destination on the Western Gulf coast, which isn’t surprising, considering the island’s gorgeous beaches, perfect weather, and sparkling blue, almost turquoise, water. Koh Samui has seen rapid development since the 1990s, and you’ll encounter hotels in all price ranges.Koh Samui is half the size of Phuket, so you could easily drive around it in a day. But Koh Samui is best appreciated by those who take a slower, more casual approach. Most people come for the sun and sea, so they head straight to their hotel and rarely venture beyond its beach. But it’s worth exploring beyond your lodging. Every beach has its own character, and you might find the perfect one for you. One beach many visitors find to their liking is Chawaeng. On Koh Samui’s east coast, this stretch of glistening white sand is divided into two main sections—Chawaeng Yai (yai means “big”) and Chawaeng Noi (noi means “little”). You’ll find the greatest variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars here. Despite the crowds, Chawaeng is no Pattaya or Patong—the mood is very laid-back. A rocky headland separates Chawaeng Lamai Beach, whose clear water and long stretch of sand were the first place on the island to attract developers. More budget accommodations are available here than in Chawaeng, and there are some happening nightclubs.On the west coast of Koh Samui, Na Thon is the island’s primary port and the spot where ferries arrive from the mainland. It’s home to the island’s governmental offices, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and there are banks, foreign-exchange booths, travel agents, shops, restaurants, and cafés by the ferry pier. A few places rent rooms, but there’s really no reason to stay here—nicer accommodations can be found a short songthaew ride away.To the north and east of Na Thon lie a few beaches worthy of exploration. Laem Yai, 5 km (3 miles) north, has great seafood. East of here, a small headland separates two low-key communities on the northern shore, Mae Nam and Bophut Beach. Mae Nam is also the departure point for boats bound for Koh Phangan and Koh Tao . Just south of the Samui’s northeastern tip you’ll find sandy Choengmon Beach, a good area for swimming that’s not overdeveloped.
Ko Samui, Thailand’s idyllic island, is renowned for its lush tropical landscapes and vibrant natural beauty. In addition to its serene coastline, the island is home to the Ang Thong National Marine Park, a protected area known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and diverse wildlife, offering an ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
The main island of Singapore is shaped like a flattened diamond, 42 km (26 miles) east to west and 23 km (14 miles) north to south. Near the northern peak is the causeway leading to West Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur is less than four hours away by car. It is at the southern foot where you will find most of the city-state’s action, with its gleaming office towers, working docks, and futuristic “supertrees,” which are solar-powered and serve as vertical gardens. Offshore are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city. To the east is Changi International Airport, connected to the city by metro, bus, and a tree-lined parkway. Of the island’s total land area, more than half is built up, with the balance made up of parkland, farmland, plantations, swamp areas, and rain forest. Well-paved roads connect all parts of the island, and Singapore city has an excellent, and constantly expanding, public transportation system. The heart of Singapore’s history and its modern wealth are in and around the Central Business District. The area includes the skyscrapers in the Central Business District, the 19th-century Raffles Hotel, the convention centers of Marina Square, on up to the top of Ft. Canning. Although most of old Singapore has been knocked down to make way for the modern city, most colonial landmarks have been preserved in the CBD, including early-19th-century buildings designed by the Irish architect George Coleman.
Say hello to Stamford Raffles’ engaging city, a modern metropolis which is blended with the traditional historic towns of the founders. These include Chinatown, Little India and the Malay community of Kampong Glam. The Singapore River meanders through the center of the island with vistas of skyscrapers and historic shop houses, often side-by-side. Singapore is a tropical garden city with flowers and greenery everywhere. Among the attractions are the domes at Gardens by the Bay located near Marina Bay and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Botanic Gardens. Orchard Road is the epicenter for shopping some of Asia’s leading retailers and includes both international brands and local shops.
The main island of Singapore is shaped like a flattened diamond, 42 km (26 miles) east to west and 23 km (14 miles) north to south. Near the northern peak is the causeway leading to West Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur is less than four hours away by car. It is at the southern foot where you will find most of the city-state’s action, with its gleaming office towers, working docks, and futuristic “supertrees,” which are solar-powered and serve as vertical gardens. Offshore are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city. To the east is Changi International Airport, connected to the city by metro, bus, and a tree-lined parkway. Of the island’s total land area, more than half is built up, with the balance made up of parkland, farmland, plantations, swamp areas, and rain forest. Well-paved roads connect all parts of the island, and Singapore city has an excellent, and constantly expanding, public transportation system. The heart of Singapore’s history and its modern wealth are in and around the Central Business District. The area includes the skyscrapers in the Central Business District, the 19th-century Raffles Hotel, the convention centers of Marina Square, on up to the top of Ft. Canning. Although most of old Singapore has been knocked down to make way for the modern city, most colonial landmarks have been preserved in the CBD, including early-19th-century buildings designed by the Irish architect George Coleman.
Say hello to Stamford Raffles’ engaging city, a modern metropolis which is blended with the traditional historic towns of the founders. These include Chinatown, Little India and the Malay community of Kampong Glam. The Singapore River meanders through the center of the island with vistas of skyscrapers and historic shop houses, often side-by-side. Singapore is a tropical garden city with flowers and greenery everywhere. Among the attractions are the domes at Gardens by the Bay located near Marina Bay and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Botanic Gardens. Orchard Road is the epicenter for shopping some of Asia’s leading retailers and includes both international brands and local shops.
Kuala Lumpur, or KL as locals refer to it, intrigues visitors with its diversity and multicultural character. The city’s old quarter features stretches of shop houses that hint at its colonial past, while modern buildings—including the iconic Petronas Towers—give a glimpse of its modern financial ambitions. The city is filled with culturally colorful quarters dedicated to Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities. New shopping malls with designer labels, five-star hotels, and top-notch restaurants also proliferate in this bustling city of 1.6 million.
This is a city of many faces, from the aboriginal village on Carey Island to the sweeping 360° views from one of the world’s highest towers. It’s hard to know where to begin. Some sights are hard to miss – the soaring KL Tower and Petronas Twin Towers, for instance. Others are less apparent but every bit as fascinating. The British colonial buildings of Merdeka Square and the Royal Selangor Club. Like a crazy quilt, somehow it all blends together in a harmonious whole that is a thrill to explore.
An island off the northwest coast of peninsular Malaysia, Penang is blessed with a multicultural history that’s led to a fascinating fusion of East and West. Claimed by the British East India Company in 1786, the island’s city center of Georgetown—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is filled with colonial architecture, temples, and museums. The island has also attracted many Chinese immigrants, who now make up the majority of the population. On Penang you’ll find an exciting mix of jungle, coast, farmland, and fishing villages, along with the country’s largest Buddhist temple.
Penang, Malaysia, is a vibrant destination known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and historic sites. The island’s capital, George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts colonial architecture, lively street art, and bustling markets. Indulge in Penang’s culinary delights, where a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences create a mouthwatering array of street food, from fragrant laksa to crispy satay, making it a true food lover’s paradise.
"Island paradise" perfectly captures Ko Yao Noi. Offering breathtaking views of Phang Nga Bay, this peaceful island is a small ship exclusive, making it an ideal escape. Capture stunning photos of the iconic limestone formations that define the bay and explore the charming rural villages inland for a taste of local life.
Krabi, Thailand, is a stunning coastal destination known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear waters, and beautiful beaches. With picturesque islands like Phi Phi and Railay, Krabi offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, vibrant local culture, bustling markets, and serene temples.
Windstar’s signature beach BBQ is held on the pristine private island of Koh Nakha Noi, Thailand, offering an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.
Though few tourists linger here, Phuket Town, the provincial capital, is one of the more culturally interesting places on the island to spend half a day. About one-third of the island’s population lives here, and the town is an intriguing mix of old Sino-Portuguese architecture and the influences of the Chinese, Muslims, and Thais that inhabit it. The old Chinese quarter along Talang Street is especially good for a stroll, as its history has not yet been replaced by modern concrete and tile. And this same area has a variety of antiques shops, art studios, and trendy cafés. Besides Talang, the major thoroughfares are Ratsada, Phuket, and Ranong roads. Ratsada connects Phuket Road (where you’ll find the Tourism Authority of Thailand office) to Ranong Road, where there’s an aromatic local market filled with fruits, vegetables, spices, and meats.
Known as the pearl of Thailand, Phuket is famous for pristine beaches, lush vegetation and natural beauty and is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations. Discover the busy markets and ancient shophouses, the fabulous food and some of the finest resorts and spas in Thailand.
DECK | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 548 SQ FT
This luxurious 548-square-foot suite combines floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around balcony for an unparalleled cruising experience. Perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner, the wrap-around balcony adds 248 square feet of space and offers unobstructed views of the sea. The suite boasts a separate entryway — as well as separate dining and living areas — and a guest powder room. The bedroom includes an inviting king bed (convertible into two XL twin beds if desired), and the bathroom features a luxurious double walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets. For family bookings, the adjacent suite can be combined to provide extra bedrooms and space for entertaining.
DECK | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 380 SQ FT
Step into a stylish and bright open living area with a spacious adjacent bedroom. This 380-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and its own sliding glass door with balcony access, while the bathroom includes a bathtub and walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
DECK | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 288 SQ FT
This 288-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed and its own sliding glass door with balcony access, while the bathroom includes a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
DECK | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 353 SQ FT
Step into a stylish and bright open living area with a spacious adjacent bedroom. This 353-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed that can be converted into two twins if desired, while the bathroom includes a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
DECK 7 | CABIN TYPE: SUITE | 268 SQ FT
Located on deck 7, this 268-square-foot suite welcomes you with stylish comfort and stunning ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
DECK 6 | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 246 SQ FT
Located on deck 6, this 246-square-foot suite welcomes you with stylish comfort and stunning ocean views. Featuring an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and a pull-out sofa in the living area, the suite allows for triple occupancy. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
DECK | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 225 SQ FT
Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you to this 225-square-foot suite. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
Located at the middle of the ship, these 225-square-foot suites welcome you with stylish comfort and beautiful ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
DECK | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 301 SQ FT
This roomy 301-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window in the bedroom, allowing for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. This suite also features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and a pull-out sofa in the separate living area, allowing for triple occupancy. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.
DECK 7 | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 280 SQ FT
Located on deck 7, this 280-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window that allows for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Your suite features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired), a walk-in mosaic glass shower and a comfortable living area where you can lounge and enjoy the view.
DECK 7 | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 280 SQ FT
Located on deck 7, this 280-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window that allows for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Your suite features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired), a walk-in mosaic glass shower and a comfortable living area where you can lounge and enjoy the view.
DECK | CABIN TYPE: Suite | 203 SQ FT
Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality in this thoughtfully designed 203-square-foot suite. The well-planned layout creates an ideal retreat with plenty of natural light, a view of the sea, a walk-in mosaic glass shower and an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twins if desired), perfect for unwinding after a day of fun and exploration.
In keeping with its commitment to providing exceptional culinary experiences, leading yacht-style cruise line Windstar Cruises is thrilled to announce the addition of Basil + Bamboo™, a new complimentary specialty restaurant aboard Star Seeker, Windstar’s newest yacht launching December 2025. This innovative dining venue offers a captivating blend of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, creating a memorable culinary experience for guests.
Basil + Bamboo will take the place of Cuadro 44 across the line’s fleet in 2025, first on Star Breeze in February 2025, and debut as the new dining venue aboard Star Seeker, introducing a fresh and vibrant alternative for discerning diners. With limited seating, Basil + Bamboo promises an intimate dining experience where guests can indulge in a harmonious fusion of flavors.
Guests can expect delicious offerings such as comforting miso soup, delicate tuna tartare and a refined sampler of sashimi, nigiri and maki. Main entrees highlight bold flavors and premium ingredients such as miso black cod with pea purée, Jamon ibérico de Bellota, and pickled wood ear; free-range young chicken served with Jerusalem artichokes and yuzu kosho; and crispy brussels sprouts glazed in Korean honey-soy. The dessert menu boasts artful creations like Citrus Olive Oil Cake with lemon cream aside Greek yogurt ice cream and Chocolate Caramel Crémeux, paired with ginger-cinnamon hibiscus ice cream and sake caviar.
Amphora presents a contemporary, international menu and fresh local dishes.
You’ll find all your traditional grilled and barbecued favorites (and discover new dishes from around the world) in our casual outdoor restaurant.
A pleasant lounge and all-day coffee bar, which is the perfect place to relax with new friends and enjoy the 270 degree views from atop the ship.
24-hour room service menu for in-room dining features coursed menu from the main Amphora dining room during dining hours.
Swim directly from the yacht’s platform and enjoy complimentary snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks and floatable watermats.
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.
Guests can talk with the Captain and officers on watch, view the navigational charts with the crew and enjoy one of the best views on the ship.
The Lounge can be found on Deck 8
Full-service salon and spa from around the world. Offerings include massages, body treatments, facials, manicures, andpedicures.
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.
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.
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..
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.
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
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.
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.
Animals or pets are not allowed with the exception of qualified Service Dogs for guests with disabilities. Please notify your travel professional at time of booking if you intend to board with a Service Dog.
What is a Service Dog?
At Windstar Cruises a Service Dog is defined as a dog that is personally trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a guest with a disability. There are many different acceptable conditions for using a service dog such as guiding a blind person, pulling a wheelchair, or alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, and other special tasks as defined in Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A Service Dog is not a pet.
Are pets, Service Dogs in Training or Emotional Support Dogs considered Service Dogs?
No. Service Dogs do not include pets or Service Dogs in Training. Nor are Emotional Support Dogs considered Service Dogs based on a decision by the U.S. Department of Justice. None of these animals will be able to sail with Windstar Cruises.
What do guests need to do to meet the requirements to bring a Service Dog on board a Windstar yacht?
What additional information do guests need to know?
What happens on board?
A doctor and limited medical facilities are available on board. However, if you take special medications, please bring an adequate supply with you together with a copy of the prescription from your doctor; it may not be available on board. Medical services and all medicines (except acetaminophen, aspirin, and seasickness pills) dispensed by the ship’s doctor will be charged to your onboard account. If you become ill during the voyage and the physician is unable to care for your needs on board, you will be transferred to medical facilities on shore. Shoreside medical care and/or evacuation are not charged to your onboard account. You will be responsible for paying all of these charges.
If you will require a special medical apparatus or assistance on board or have any special medical, physical or other requirements, please contact our Vacation Planners Department at 1-888-260-6159. Due to limited medical facilities, we will not accept reservations for children under 8 years of age or women who are 24 or more weeks pregnant at the time their travel with Windstar concludes.
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:
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.
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.