Windstar Cruises is the only cruise line in the world whose fleet contains genuine masted sailing ships. Its three Wind Class yachts deploy actual sails and are, in the clearest sense, sailing vessels at sea. The other half of the fleet consists of elegant all-suite motor yachts, originally built for Seabourn and purchased and extensively rebuilt by Windstar.
The two product types share the same casual, unhurried atmosphere, the same commitment to boutique ports that larger ships cannot access, the same open watersports marina, and the same James Beard Foundation culinary partnership. In 2026 Windstar is also in the middle of its most ambitious expansion: Star Seeker joined the fleet in December 2025 as the line’s first-ever newbuild, and Star Explorer arrives in December 2026, bringing the fleet to eight yachts.
This guide covers Windstar’s founding and ownership history, the three distinct ship classes in full detail, what is included, dining and the James Beard partnership, the watersports marina, the Wind Class refresh and Star Plus renovation programmes, the Star Seeker and Star Explorer new ships, the Tahiti year-round programme, and how Windstar compares to the premium and ultra-luxury competition in 2026.
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Windstar Cruises: What it is, How it works, and What to expect
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