Windstar Cruises expands with two new ships by 2026, enhancing its luxury small-ship fleet for adventures in Tahiti and the South Pacific.
Small-ship luxury cruise line Windstar is growing! Two new ships will be added in the next two years to its motorized and sail-powered fleet of 6 unique vessels, growing its fleet by a third!
The 2 new ships are both motorized, and the first to launch will be a newbuild, Star Seeker, which will mark the first newbuild in Windstar’s ‘Star’ Class of motorized ships.
Star Seeker will debut in December, 2025, followed by Star Explorer, undergoing retrofitting and refurbishment, a year later at the end of 2026.
The new ships will permit Windstar to double the number of ships in one of its guests’ favorite destinations: Tahiti and the South Pacific. Not only that, but one of the ships in French Polynesia will be one of its Wind Class sailing ships – maybe the most romantic, close-to-the-sea way to experience a destination that tops many peoples’ travel bucket lists!
Wind Star will join Star Breeze in Tahiti in 2027, adding more capacity to meet the growing demand for French Polynesian sailings. So you’ll have a choice between sailing among the islands of the South Pacific on a Wind or Star Class ship!
Each of the upcoming 2 new ships has 112 suites, featuring full private verandas and infinity windows, ensuring unparalleled views for each and every guest. Or picture yourself in one of two new Owner’s Suites with wrap-around balconies have been added to the aft of the ship, perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner.
Plus, the staff to guest ratio is 1:2; ensuring personalized service on these intimate ships.
Guests will also enjoy access to several newly added guest favorites, including Windstar’s iconic Watersports Platform with all-new staircase access, the cozy Yacht Club café and lounge, a two-story spa and fitness facility, an intimate forward whirlpool on the bow, and a spacious open deck perfect for sunbathing and Windstar’s famous deck barbeques.
Other dining options will reflect Windstar’s continued relationship with the James Beard Foundation as its Official Cruise Line. A re-imagined main dining room, Amphora, will serve a variety of upscale and inventive dishes, including rotating items from James Beard Foundation–affiliated guest chefs. Al fresco dining will now be available at both Amphora and the Star Grill. A no-charge specialty restaurant and 24-hour room service rounds out the four dining options.
Star Seeker and Star Explorer both have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations. At the cruise conference event where the announcement of the new ships was made, however, the company president, Chris Prelog, revealed that Windstar would focus on ‘soft’ adventure, not venture into polar cruising – at least not yet!
The two new ships are equipped with the latest technology in safety, propulsion, and navigation, including pump jet thrusters and forward-facing Sonar. To minimize their environmental footprint and uphold the brand’s commitment to sustainability, the ships have tier III Nox rated Rolls Royce engines and can connect to shore power minimizing port emissions. In addition, the ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet all global standards.
Watch this space for more details about the new ships’ inaugural itineraries and when you can book!
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Renderings: Windstar Cruises
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