Windstar Cruises, formerly owned by Holland America Line was purchased this spring by Ambassadors Cruise Group, the operators of Mississippi riverboats Delta Queen and Queen of the North.  At the time, Ambassadors stated that there would be no outward changes to the operation of its fleet of three, unique ships and now, six months later, to the delight of Windstar loyalists, there has indeed been little noticeable change.

Windstar Cruises sleek masted sailing ships, with computer-directed sails, offer an intriguing balance of sophisticated pampering, exceptional service and luxurious amenities – all amidst an oh-so-casual atmosphere.  Passenger to crew ratios are a high 1.5 to 1, and a superb level of personalized service is the result.

Wind Surf and Wind Spirit have already finished major refurbishments; cabins were upgraded with fabulous new mattresses, linens and duvets. Along with tech toys like DVD players and Bose iPod docks (you can borrow an iPod free of charge).  Bathrooms have sleek granite countertops and fluffy towels. Wind Star will be refurbished this November. “Casual Elegance” is the designated dress code. Passengers leave ties and formal wear at home in favour of country club casual sportswear - day and night.  There are few organized activities and none of the typical cruise line Vegas-style reviews. More typically, events for gathering include a nightly cocktail hour featuring entertainment and the ship’s shore excursion manager, who gives the scoop on the next ports of call.

The most interesting feature on a Windstar ship is the aft water sports platform along with a range of complimentary water sports – snorkeling, windsurfing, paddleboats and even water-skiing.

Itineraries encompass both marquee ports and those a bit off the well-trodden grid.  For instance, a Caribbean voyage would include stops at big-ship ports such as St. Thomas, St. Martin and Tortola, but also include Jost van Dyke and St. Barts or Ile des Saintes and Pidgeon Island.  In the Eastern Mediterranean, an itinerary may feature Rome, Dubrovnik and Venice, but also stops at Hvar (Croatia) and Amalfi.

Windstar passengers tend to be active, well-travelled, well-educated adults of all ages – mostly North American and British – who enjoy the more laid-back atmosphere of a smaller ship. The idea of travelling under sail, and the unique itineraries that Windstar provides.

Could this be your dream cruise? 

Call us for details, fares and availability.