Windstar Cruises has revealed an expansion of its fleet with two all-suite motor yachts, Star Seeker and Star Explorer. The first of the two ships, new-build Star Seeker – which is currently being constructed in the WestSEA shipyard – is expected to be delivered in December of 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December 2026. Both ships will have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations.
“Our goal was to ensure these ships are unmistakably Windstar, and a significant amount of effort has gone into achieving this,” said Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises.
“We are thrilled for this expansion, building on the success of our game-changing Star Class in small-ship cruising with guests and travel partners, while offering new experiences. This growth reflects the dedication of our incredible crew and team, allowing us to broaden our destination portfolio and even bring one of our Wind Class sail ships back to Tahiti.”
Last February, Prelog had flagged to LATTE the addition of new ships when in Sydney, with the cruise line mulling either acquisitions or new-builds.
Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.
Star Seeker and Star Explorer will feature 112 suites with full private verandas and infinity windows. Additionally, two new Owner’s Suites with wrap-around balconies have been added to the aft of the ship. With a capacity for 224 guests and a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:2, the ships maintain an intimate atmosphere, ensuring personalised service at every turn.
Guests will also enjoy access to several newly added Windstar guest favourites, including the brand’s iconic Watersports Platform with all-new staircase access, the cozy Yacht Club café and lounge, a two-storey 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.
The 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 24hr room service rounds out the four dining options.
Star Seeker and Star Explorer are equipped with the latest technology in safety, propulsion, and navigation, including pump jet thrusters and forward-facing Sonar. To minimise 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 minimising port emissions. In addition, the ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet all global standards.
Andrew N. Todd, President & CEO of parent company Xanterra Travel Collection said, “As part of our company’s expanding portfolio, Windstar Cruises is poised for remarkable growth and an exciting future ahead. We’re excited about the possibilities of where Windstar will sail and the opportunities it brings our officers, crew and staff, and our guests.”
The expansion also allows Windstar to return its Wind Class ship, Wind Star, to Tahiti, where it will join Star Breeze in 2027, adding more capacity to meet the growing demand for French Polynesian sailings.
Full itineraries and booking details for Star Seeker will be announced in late June 2024.
