What kind of I-SO-need-to-relax vacation do you take if you consider yourself a traveller, not a tourist?
Wind Spirit, BVIs
You want a fair amount of time to nap and read your book, but can’t stomach another all-inclusive beach resort? You want to see something interesting, but don’t want to spend all your energy getting there? You want to be treated as an individual guest, and don’t want to stand in lines and fight crowds like on a big cruise? Your taste buds want quality, not quantity? You want interesting people to talk to, both fellow guests and staff?
When I need this kind of vacation, I turn to Windstar Cruises.
On Windstar, you feel like a guest. You don’t have to search for a lounge chair. You don’t get lost finding your cabin. You don’t feel herded on to over-priced boring tours. You don’t get cranky and sunburned waiting in a long line on the pier to re-board the ship at your designated hour. These are not typical cruise ships. Instead, you have a vacation where you can relax and recharge, but not get bored.
The most obvious difference between the big cruises and Windstar: first, the ships have sails, and second, they are small. The biggest ship, Wind Surf, has a maximum of 312 guests, with 191 staff. The twin Wind Star and Wind Spirit each max out at 148 guests, with 90 staff. Should you be on an ocean crossing, most likely the crew with outnumber the guests. By a lot. But the differences go far beyond size and sails.
One of my favourite things about Windstar is that it is casual. The thought of packing and wearing an evening dress in the tropics just makes me sweat. The only Windstar dress code is in the dining rooms and lounge in the evening, where they request no jeans, shorts or t-shirts. Most men wear khakis and a polo shirt, women a sundress, skirt or pants. Some men will wear a tie on occasion, and some women a cocktail dress, but regulars will (subtly) raise an eyebrow (they’ll have a sweater or fleece with them, to slip on after dinner when they stand in the wind in front of the bridge, looking at the sails against the stars).
A cruise ship? Won’t it be banquet food, or worse?
A relaxing vacation is great, but I don’t want to be stuck anywhere for a week without half-decent food. And Windstar’s is much more than half-decent. While there isn’t a long list of restaurants to choose from like on a big ship, neither do you have a designated time or table. You don’t have to sit with anyone else (unless of
course you want to). While you certainly can eat often and a lot, this is no bellies-to-the-trough smorgasbord. There are two dining rooms to choose from (4 on Wind Surf): half are al fresco dining on deck. Most dinners are in The Restaurant. The menu changes every night, with many choices. The food is interesting and well-prepared. The galley makes dishes to order — your food doesn’t sit under a heat lamp while the hoards are served. If you have food allergies, the galley is extremely accommodating to ensure you eat well and stay healthy.
Me, dolphin spotting, at breakfast
Breakfast and lunch are both served in The Veranda, with both indoor and outdoor seating. You can order off the menu or visit the extensive buffet. You will find something you love, whether you like a breakfast that is sweet (like french toast covered in berries and tropical fruit with a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice), or savoury (like smoked salmon on rye and a green tea). Everything is planned and made with care and attention.
In the Caribbean, there is usually a lunchtime barbeque on a gorgeous beach, and one dinner a deck-top barbeque (where, in February 2011 on Wind Spirit, I was really impressed with the quality of the food, and how well it was prepared — the lamb and lobster tails were particularly good). Now, this isn’t a private yacht, so you may have to line up for a minute or so at the barbeques!
Beach barbeque in St Lucia
All food is included in the price, including room service (don’t miss the WARM popcorn delivered to your door!). There is a separate room service menu, or you can order off the dining room menu (and even have your meals delivered in courses). Many passengers have a dinner in bed, while watching a movie. As is typical on most cruise ships, you do pay for drinks on Windstar (except water, coffee, tea and iced tea). (Update: Windstar now has non-alcoholic drinks included). Drink prices are what you would pay in a typical Canadian or US bar or restaurant, and the wine selections are good (including my beloved Veuve Clicquot. There are also various drinks packages you can buy if you feel like indulging, or don’t want to track receipts.
A sailboat? So, teeny cabins right?
The sleeping half of a standard state room, pre-remodel
State rooms on Windstar also please a discerning traveller. They are surprisingly large, particularly on Wind Surf (they are just a touch smaller on Wind Spirit and Wind Star). They are all outside cabins and well-designed with lots of storage space. There are two good-sized closets (although take my advice and don’t bother bringing much – dress is casual, and the laundry service is excellent).
Windstar has thought about comfort. There is good sound — each cabin comes with a Bose iPod dock (you can borrow an iPod if you don’t have your own). There is a flat screen TV and DVD player (and a vast library of movies to borrow). The bathroom has a superb Grohe showerhead and luxe L’Occitane en Provence amenities (and those of you with long hair will love what L’Occitane conditioner does to your salted and sunned locks). Beds are comfortable with crisp linens.
While there are several large-sized suites with extra luxuries, the state rooms are all the same. So, save $200 (perhaps to spend at the spa?) and get a room on the lowest deck! Not only is the ship more stable down here (although the ship’s sway is pretty minor everywhere), you can work off those extra desserts with the extra flight of stairs (or, on Wind Surf, just take the elevator).
But all cruises go to the same places, don’t they?
Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy
Another wonderful thing about Windstar is that the ships go to small ports that big ships can’t, and which aren’t overrun with tourists. So you can see a lot, without having to pack your suitcase and find a new hotel each night. I love tiny Jost Van Dyke (British Virgin Islands (BVIs)) with its sand main street; the incredible ice cream on Iles des Saints, off the main island of Guadeloupe; and the gorgeous harbour of Portofino, Italy. Windstar tends to leave ports late, so you can experience the popular spots after the other ships have left, and so you can enjoy the nightlife (important in places like Monaco or St. Barth’s).
Bitter End Yacht Club, Virgin Gorda
Windstar ships can also adapt easily to things like crowds. On my first trip on Wind Surf, the captain changed the Sint Maarten/St Martin port from the Dutch side to the French side, because there were three monster ships on the Dutch side, and the port was crazy. Instead, we anchored on the French side and got to sip café au lait with the locals. This year, the Wind Spirit changed the order of ports in the British Virgin Islands so that guests were able to watch the Superbowl at the famous Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda.
Tender docked at Jost Van Dyke
In port, the ship is often at anchor, not tied up to a pier, so you need to take a tender to shore (and when you get back there is a cool, scented cloth waiting for your hot forehead). I have never waited more than a few minutes to catch a tender, and never waited with more than a half-dozen couples. There is none of the standing in line or pre-determined times you may use the tender as on bigger ships. In St Kitts, a tourist from a big ship asked me if we had to pay extra to take the tender to shore — I was dumbfounded (the answer is no, of course!)
Wind Surf, lit up in the Monaco harbour
In port, there is a good variety of excursions you can book, and a good range of prices. You can sail in an America’s Cup boat in Sint Maarten, see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, hike the towns of the Cinque Terre, and snorkel and SCUBA almost everywhere. Each evening in the lounge, while guests munch on hors d’oeuvres, hosts run through the highlights of the next day’s ports and excursion options. Unlike on a big ship, their main interest is not selling you tours. They want you to actually enjoy your vacation, in the way that is best for you. I love how they tell you when it is worth getting a cab, and when it is just as easy to take the local bus (and how to find the best ice cream).
Lisbon, Portugal
You’ll never get bored of Windstar’s many destinations. They are always expanding itineraries: the Holy Land, the Baltics, and the Ionian Sea, including Malta and Albania; and with their three new ships in 2012-14, Windstar is even returning to the South Pacific. They also travel throughout the Caribbean, the Mediterranean (Spain, Portugal, France, Monaco, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Croatia …), Costa Rica, and the Panama Canal. And you can actually experience and enjoy Windstar’s ports because of how well planned everything is (and there is still time for a nap on deck).
Despite this great selection of itineraries, my favourite cruise is the Atlantic crossing — THE most relaxing holiday you will ever have: two weeks at sea, where your biggest decision is which lounge chair to choose and whether to indulge in the morning delivery of soup, or, as it gets warmer, sorbet. I’m looking forward to trying the Pacific crossing, starting in 2014.
Ok, so it’ll be interesting off the ship – but what about onboard?
On Windstar you do not decide between salsa dancing on the Lido deck and volleyball in the aft pool, or between the synchronized swimming and skating shows. You do not hear kids screaming on the waterslide, or whining that they want, want, want. While there is lots to tempt you from your book, there are very few organized activities on Windstar to sample (and kids are rare, the three I have seen spent most of their time curled up with a book).
Wind Surf’s swim platform, Italian Riviera
While at anchor, the stern opens up to become a floating dock. Off this you can swim or float; borrow a windsurf board, sailboat, or kayak; or go out in the zodiac to see caves, take a picture of the ship, or water ski. You can borrow a snorkel, mask and flippers for using off beaches and on excursions. You can take a dip in a small pool (two on Wind Surf) or relax in the hot tub (two on Wind Surf).
Wind Surf: the bridge
If you prefer to stay dry, there are a number of games, books and DVDs to borrow. I love walking laps around the deck while listening to a podcast or audiobook. A yoga class on the top deck at sunset — where all you can see is ocean — is one of the most serene experiences you can ever have. In the evenings there is music of some sort (two small bands on Wind Surf) and a handful of people dance. Then there’s the spa, the small casino, and the gym. And, unlike almost any other commercial ship at sea, big or small, you can visit the bridge and talk to the second officers and quartermasters on duty. They show you how the ship works, point out stars, and tell you whopping at-sea stories.
Galley tour, Wind Surf
There are occasional galley tours or cooking demonstrations. On an Atlantic crossing there is likely a Wii or Trivial Pursuit tournament. But most Windstar guests just want to just enjoy being on board — sitting in a deck chair, gazing at the beautiful views, reading while sipping a cool drink, and, when it all becomes just too much, taking a siesta.
I don’t want to make small-talk with people who, you know, think Peoria is exotic
Leaving Lisbon, with 3 m to spare at low tide
Windstar guests tend to be well-travelled, knowledgeable about the world, and interesting to talk to — travellers, not tourists. It depends on the cruise, but I would guess about 60% are American, with most of the rest European and Canadian. I’ve met South Africans, Mexicans, Brits, Australians, French, Germans, and the list goes on. And of course I always seek out the Canadians.
There is a good mix of ages. Perhaps the average age is about 50, with a few in their 20s (often on a family trip with mum and dad, or honeymooners), and a good number in their 30s and 40s. The second most prominent age group are retirees. I’ve met millionaires and people who take only one holiday every few years, and everyone in between. Same-sex couples will be just as comfortable as everyone else. There are always a number of solo travellers aboard, and I find they make exceptionally good conversation.
Staff are the same everywhere, right?
Crew talent night on Wind Surf Atlantic crossing
The staff are what really make a difference on Windstar. Most have made cruise ships their career, and most have chosen to stay with Windstar. Windstar has chosen them because of their sense of hospitality, their friendliness, and their skill at their jobs. Officers are chosen not only for their ship-board expertise, but for their ability to be ambassadors for the line.
Arctic P (TomKat honeymooned on it) in St Barth’s
Staff will notice your interests and help you pursue them — many crew members have given me tips for the best places to watch for sea life, and advice on what to eat in port and in their home countries. A dining room steward shared his private supply of sambal with me when I was craving a really good hot sauce. Staff members quickly learn your name, your drink, and other preferences, and they engage you in conversation. A question from you about their home, their family or their dreams earns you a genuine smile and an interesting story. I find that staff are always on the lookout for a way to be helpful and to flash you a smile.
Windstar crew, I’ve heard from many travellers, have reasonably good pay and living quarters. While they do work hard, have long hours, and are away from their families for many months, they eat often and well, have free time both on and off the ship (ask about the table tennis tournaments, and the best places onshore for free wifi and good well-priced food) and seem to enjoy their jobs. This makes it a lot easier for me to sit back and relax, or chat about travelling, and it makes them well-deserving of your gratuities.
Ok, a sailing cruise looks good. But why not some other boat?
Now, I may have convinced you to give up the big ships for the splendours of the sailing ship. But is Windstar your only choice? The answer is no, but Windstar is really the only one you should seriously consider. Star Clippers is the main alternative to Windstar, and I tested out their flagship, the Royal Clipper, to see which line provided the better traveller’s vacation.
In the bow net
The clipper ships are beautiful to look at (but don’t be fooled, their sails are computerized too). It is nice to see the sail maker with his sewing machine on deck mending sails. I liked the opportunity to climb to a crow’s nest on Star Clipper, and to hang out in the bow net with a book (however, the ropes were not comfortable, so you don’t want to do this for much more than a photo op). The steam bath is nice to use on an autumnal European evening. Pirate night and the crab race are touristy fun (although seemed more appropriate for the Caribbean than the Med).
Because the ships are, well, shippier, you’ll need to keep your eye out for ropes and other obstacles on deck. A shippier shape also means the cabins are smaller, and they are less well-designed than on WIndstar (and forward cabins are even smaller and have a tilted floor). The food was adequate on Royal Clipper, but not more than that. All meals are served in the multi-tier dining room on one of the lower decks (I find its brass decor is too let-me-impress-you 80s). Breakfast and lunch are buffet style, but without the same selection as Windstar. Dinner also has less selection and the food is more banquet-quality, and rarely hot. Wine lists are half decent though.
There are fewer North Americans, and more Europeans on board (probably because costs are in Euro, while Windstar uses the US $). While I certainly met some nice people, I found the clientele older and stuffier, and more interested in checking sites off their list and bragging about previous trips than in truly learning about a destination (or people other than themselves).
Some staff are friendly, most are just polite. Some seem to find passengers a necessary inconvenience, and I think would be much happier working aboard a cargo ship. There are exceptions. On the Venice-Rome sailing, we had a wonderful Italian marine biologist aboard — Mariano — who was extremely knowledgeable about what was in the sea and what was in port. His friendliness, good conversation and knowledge were in sharp contrast to the cruise director — Max — who had little time and much disdain for anyone not booking a shore excursion through him. Most Clipper staff did not have the helpful- and solution-orientation that Windstar staff have. While Star Clippers’ 37 night repositioning cruise from Athens to Phuket tempted me, I couldn’t stand the food, service and lack of friendliness onboard for that long.
Windstar all the way!
Windstar gives you exactly what you need for a relaxing, but not brain-dead, holiday. You’ll feel like a guest and, unless you like ice skating and waterslides while on your cruise, you’ll never go back to the big ships again.
Travellers – you’ll love Windstar.
Comments?
I’d love to hear your thoughts about Windstar, other cruises, and other relaxing traveller vacations you would recommend.
Travel Eater 
Thanks for the very informative post. I’m scheduled in fall 2022 for the repositioning from Barcelona to Barbados and have never been on WindStar before. It’s my first scheduled post-covid cruise so I’m starting off with a small ship experience since I think vast crowds will feel wrong for some time. As a solo traveller I was particularly interested in your thoughts on the dining. On large ships I usually book at a table for 6 or 8 so even if a few opt to go to the buffet or specialty dining, there is always someone to eat with. Also table an assigned table means I don’t have to reintroduce myself to another table of strangers everynight. I am hopefull that what I’m reading about everyone getting to know everyone else on such a small ship hold true. I don’t mind eating alone and always take my book/ereader to meals just in case, but it’s nice to chat with someone too. Have you noticed if the solo travellers are offered seating together at a large communal table, or added to tables with willing couples? I once asked for a table for two so I could read my tour notes for the next day, and the couples on both sides of me tried to get me to push the tables together and join them. I sensed they felt sorry for me being alone and would rather have had their own romantic dinner. I hate feeling like anyone “has” to invite me to join them. I’m fine on my own, but the other option I like is a large table of other solos or couples.
I also appreciated the info on the dress code. I already travel with only a carry-on regardless of the length of trip, but with no need for formal wear on this cruise I’m toying with taking just a shoulder bag! When speaking to WindStar about vaccination details, the agent mentioned in passing that laundry was FREE if the cruise was longer than x days. Mine qualifies so that was a huge, unexpected bonus. She was explaining the bundled package for WiFi, drinks and laundry. Then she said, “but you have free laundry already”. From past experience I’m going to assume that the satelite internet service is spotty at best for the 13 days of the Atlantic crossing so that isn’t enough to get me to purchase the package, so it comes down to the drinks. On sea days, if I put my mind to it I could get my money’s worth but on port days I definitely won’t, so I’m going to use the free WiFi in the ports on the first half of the cruise and then I’ll be offline for the entire crossing. I always leave my family at home with the emergency number to reach the ship should something happen at home that cannot wait for me to get to solid ground again.
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Thanks Jenny
It’s been a while since I’ve travelled with Windstar, but I’m sure that if you let them know about your preference to find other people to dine with, they’ll keep an eye out plus maybe even introduce you to others who welcome dining with someone new. I don’t think this would be done automatically — guests would have to say they’re looking to join others or would welcome having others join them.
Windstar has several onboard events where I think it would be pretty easy to spot other solo travellers and start chatting. I met a fascinating man from Montreal and we were always happy when he was able to join us for dinner. There was, however, another solo traveller we tried very hard to avoid … :-)
As a frequent solo traveller, I’ve noticed that many couples can get bored of talking to each other and are happy to have someone new add to their conversation. I don’t think they feel sorry for us, I think they’re happy to have us entertain them! And I think it would be even more so on a repositioning cruise like Barcelona to Barbados when shore activities are impossible.
I have no idea of the state of satellite internet while doing an ocean crossing these days … it certainly wasn’t on offer when I crossed the Atlantic several years ago. It was a luxury not to be distracted by email and social media though!
I’m sure you’ll have a lovely time and, hopefully, the world will be well-vaccinated by fall 2022 in time for your cruise. Bon voyage!
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Hello! I have enjoyed reading your replies. We are scheduled to go on the Windsurf on the 28th of March to the Carribean for 7 days. I am trying to figure out if the package deal for drinks, WIFI, laundry, and gratitudes is worth it. Is there a menu posted of drink prices to view? Also, can you make dinner reservations in advance in the private dining rooms prior to getting on the boat?
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Hi and thanks If you google, you’ll likely find drink prices posted somewhere. I haven’t sailed with Windstar for a while, and last I heard you could not make dinner reservations prior to boarding. I wouldn’t worry about it — with the small number of guests you’ll have a good chance of getting the nights you want. And you might find, as I did, that you prefer the main dining room with its more extensive menus and the flexibility to dine when you feel like it. Re whether it’s worth it or not … it really depends on how much of the “extras” you’d want and whether you want to feel like you’re always keeping a mental total of your bill or can enjoy the all-inclusive feeling. Enjoy your cruise!
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Based on your last comment about dining in a speciality dining room, is there an upcharge over the all-inclusive main dining areas. I thought it was all-inclusive.
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No up-charge — just whether your drinks are all-included or whether you pay separately for them.
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Hello, I hope you see this post. Can you comment as one person above asked, about the possibility of dining as a couple. My husband and I have done the River Boat Cruises where we dined with other travelers every night, but we would like to just have a quiet, romantic trip with only us dining alone each night. Not antisocial, but not interested in making new friends on this trip. Is it the wrong type of vacation for us?
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Hi On Windstar there is no need to dine with anyone else. You can choose to have a table to yourselves. Hope you have a lovely trip :-) Johanna
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We are booked on the Wind Star for late September 2018 on the Treasures of the Greek Isles. I understand that the dress code is relaxed in most cases. We are in our 70’s, well traveled and like to dress well. What kind of weather can we typically expect, and what can we expect in the general manner of dress? Many thanks!
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Hi You should check the specific weather report prior to leaving to guide your packing. Hopefully Europe’s heatwave will have dissipated by then. People onboard Windstar wear a range of clothing … a suit and tie is too much but many men wear a jacket with dinner. Others wear a button-down or polo. A cocktail dress is probably a little over the top for women. Hope that helps and that your have a great trip :-) Johanna
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Has anyone taken the Venice to Rome 8 day cruise.
Also, is the drink package worth it?
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I think that’s an individual decision based on what and how much you like to drink.
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Thank you very much for the review. Do you know if the ship does any stops opening the platform for water activities during the atlantic crossing?
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Thanks for asking, Elk No — they didn’t open the platform on the Atlantic crossing, I’m told because they need to be at anchor and the waters are too deep (it wouldn’t be safe to have the ship adrift or to keep the motors running with people in the water). To answer your other question below, this would apply to windsurfing as well as other water sports. thanks Johanna
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Thank you for the prompt answer. It is a pity… Would like to use water sports.
One other question: have you seen Wii on the Star Legend? In this case I will take several games with me.
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Thanks Agreed, it would be nice to swim in the middle of nowhere in the Atlantic, but it does make sense that it wouldn’t be safe without the ability to stabilise the ship. Yes, there was a Wii on board (with games and mini-tournaments). However, my sailing was not recent. You should check with Windstar … I bet they’d answer on twitter. Bon voyage! Johanna
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We are planning a Panama Canal/ Costa Rica cruise for January 2018 on the wind star ship. You mention that the best cabins are on deck 1 but I also read that some cabins are very noisy. Can you please provide some insight as to this? We were considering cabins on deck two towards the front of the ship. I now wonder. Thanks.
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I should clarify that we are looking at category A
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Hi Elizabeth You’ll have a great time on that trip, I’m sure. I don’t recall saying the best Windstar cabins are on deck 1 (Star Clippers is completely another thing though)… There is really not much difference between the A and B cabins aside from where they are located on the ship (the suites, though, are lovely!). If you are worried about motion sickness, a cabin in the middle of the ship and lower down is better than a cabin at either end of the ship and a cabin on deck 1. Cabins near the engine (stern) tend to have some engine noise, but it isn’t bad at all. Cabins near elevators and stairwells have people talking. I’ve never heard any major complaints about Windstar cabins though Bon voyage! Johanna
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Thanks for your kind advice. Been trying to figure out which places need to go via boat or just off beach. Now we have a better idea of which places to zero in to. Cheers!
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Let me know how it goes! :-)
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Thanks for your prompt reply. Really appreciate your help! Just one more question – do you think it would be better or necessary to join local tours at these places. ( i.e. St Bart’s, Roseau, St Lucia, St Kitts) if it is for snorkeling alone? We visited St John’s years ago and saw a number of sea turtles which has forever stayed in our memory and prompted our return to this part of the world again.
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Well … I’m not much of a tour person, but it would depend on where I was. St Bart’s, no need for sure. If you’re worried, google a little about each destination and the best snorkelling spots and where they are in relation to where the ship will drop you. I’m sure you’ll have a great trip :-)
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Thanks for your reply. I guess this is where the confusion comes in. I was advised by the agent that both itineraries promise great snorkeling but after booking according to her advice, it appears that the Wind Surf itinerary (St Maarten, St Bart’s, les Saintes, Roseau, St Lucia, St Kitts) is not so much for snorkeling but city stops compared to the Wind Star’s (Barbados, Bequia, Tobago, Mayreau, Granada, St Lucia) itinerary. We are also taking two teenagers so the snorkeling is really an important part of the itinerary. I have tried calling Wind star office numerous times but no one picks up. Quite stressed out because we are flying all the way from Singapore for this sailing. Thanks for your advice.
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Well, where the ships docks is not good snorkelling, and even if the ship anchors and you take the tender in, usually the place they bring you is not good snorkelling because of the boat traffic. You will need to go to a different area for snorkelling in almost all of the areas where passengers disembark – sometimes you can walk, sometimes you need a cab. You can also snorkel off the ship when it is at anchor, though you are in deeper water so you won’t see corals etc, but it is still a good experience. I’m sorry to hear Windstar is not replying to phone calls. Perhaps get on Twitter or Facebook – that can often lead to a quick response. Regardless, at all or most of your current destinations you will be able to find snorkelling. I’ve been to Illes des Saintes — a tiny island (with great ice cream) but didn’t snorkel that day (I’d had my fill, and I’m an avid diver and snorkeller). St Maarten – it totally depends where you anchor/dock, but there are lots of beaches and it is easy to take the bus. St Bart’s – you can walk to at least one good beach from where the tender drops you. St Kitts – you dock at the cruise ship terminal, so need to go to a near by beach. There’s plenty. St Lucia – where I went with Windstar there was great snorkelling, right where the tender dropped us off. For the other itinerary: Barbados : you dock at the cruse ship terminal in the capital city, you’d need a cab to snorkel. St Lucia: likely the same stop as above Other islands: I’ve not been, so not sure where WindStar lands.
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Hi we are looking for a snorkeling trip to the Caribbean. We are not familiar with the Caribbean waters. Which boat Wind Star (Barbados 7 nights) or Wind Surf (St Maartens) would be better?
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Hi again Christina. You should make your decision based on the itinerary rather than the ship. Personally, I found the snorkelling in the British Virgin Islands to be incredible, so you’ll not be disappointed with a stop there. You can also call Windstar and ask them for their advice on particular itineraries.
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We are deliberating whether to choose a Wind Surf or Wind Star Caribbean 7 day cruise. Which would be more appropriate if we are looking for snorkeling? We are not familiar with the Caribbean waters. Thank you.
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Hi Christina — the Caribbean has excellent snorkelling, but it really depends where you are. The leeward side of an island is always calmer than the windward side, and snorkelling near rocks is usually better than a plain sandy beach.
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Hi there. Thanks for all the great information. We are considering the Spanish Serenade of 8 nights from Lisbon to Barcelona this August for our 50th birthdays. But we will have our 16 & 13-year-old daughters along and want to make sure they will not get bored. They love to read and play games but 8 days is a long time for them. What do you think?
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Hi Ingrid On an ocean-crossing I might worry, but on a trip with so many ports to stop in I think your daughters will be fine. There may or may not be other kids aboard – there are cruise discussion boards and you could ask around. But you’ll spend so much time off the ship I don’t think your daughters will get bored. Exploring the ship will take some time, as will meals, plus there’s the pool, spa, gym, movies, stargazing, visiting the bridge, and a few ship-board activities, as well as their own books, computer games etc. The crew is great at chatting with people too – they can learn a lot about Indonesia and Malaysia, for example (where most of the servers are from) . Ask your daughters to pick some of your on-shore activities (not necessarily official cruise excursions), and make sure you know how to find wifi in a few ports. Consider creating a photography challenge with them too – my sister likes to find interesting graffiti to photograph, for example. Near Lisbon, Sintra is great for exploring. In Barcelona I’d recommend buying tickets online in advance for the key Gaudi sites so you don’t have to spend too much time in line. Enjoy your trip and happy birthday!
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We are looking into Wind Surf St. Maarten Round Reip in March. How’s the Casino? Also, have you noticed if it’s Gay Friendly? My Partner and I are looking to Celebrate our anniversary. Mahalo for Response!
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Hi Joe and happy anniversary ! The casinos are small and, in my experience, staffed by Russian women … Not sure what that tells you! I’ve found Windstar to be quite gay friendly — most passengers are fairly worldly and open-minded, though, like everywhere there are a handful who are more conservative. You shouldn’t have a problem. Make sure you tell the crew it’s your anniversary ! Bon voyage Johanna
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R the suites air conditiined?
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Yes – perfectly air conditioned. The cabins are extremely well designed. You’ll love it! Johanna
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I there, your review is extremely helpful and we have just booked our first cruise with windstar for next year. My husband and I are considering taking the drinks package but I am a bit hesitant as whilst it offers cocktails, house champagne etc you can only choose your wine from the per glass drinks list and I am worried there will be a limited choice of wine by the glass. Has anyone had this package and can give me some feedback on the white wines available.
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Hi Caro I’m a white wine drinker myself, and always found something I liked on the list. Especially the cava! I’m sure you’ll enjoy Windstar – please share what’s new after your sail! Johanna
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Thanks Johanna, is the glass wine list extensive? I’m a savignon blanc girl!! We are heading off on our cruise on the star legend next September 11 for the Spanish seranade. I am hoping the weather is still warm enough at this time if year to go swimming. Any tips on this?
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Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, of course!) is my favourite too :-) I don’t recall exactly, but I’m sure there will be something delicious on the list. You could always email and ask for it (though it may change between now and next September). My first trip to Spain will be next February so I don’t know for sure about swimming temperatures, though I think it will likely still be quite warm. Enjoy! Johanna
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Great article. We’ve done one cruise on the Windsurf, and are heading off on the St. Maarten’s – Lisbon repositioning cruise April 3. If you’ve been on it, can you give us some clues as to the type of weather we can expect?
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Thanks Paula, I appreciate you saying so.
I’ve only been on the autumn repositioning cruise from Lisbon to Barbados. I wouldn’t imagine the weather is too different in the spring, though, and Windstar picks their crossing times for when it is known to generally be good weather.
When we left Lisbon, the first two days were a bit chilly — I wore a sweater and tried to stay out of the wind. It warmed up steadily after that, and the crew announced when we hit the Caribbean Sea — no need to announce, you could feel the change in the weather to hot and humid!
You’ll have this in reverse, of course.
I had hoped for a small storm, just for the fun of it, but no luck.
Please let me know how your weather goes — many readers would appreciate the info.
Thanks and bon voyage!
Johanna
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hello, we are trying to decide whether to go on the Wind Surf or the Wind Star for a Caribbean holiday in 2015. We have been around the Caribbean before on Seadream and we are not too concerned about the itinerary .. we just want some sun and it’s all beautiful right!? However wondering if you can suggest which ship would provide the better experience. We are used to smaller ships so think that the Wind Star would suit us more than the larger Wind Surf?
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I’m sure you’ll enjoy either ship you choose. The main reason I prefer Wind Surf is because it has chaises longues down the sides of the boat, so you can always find one in the shade (they seem to almost all be in the hot sun on the other ships). Plus the gym is on the top floor so you can gaze at the view while you exercise ( the gym on the smaller boats is below deck). Also check the refurbishment schedule to make sure what you choose has been re-done! (I think by 2015 they all will be, but just in case!)
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thanks so much for your speedy reply. We just wondered if the smaller ship may be more intimate (which seems like a daft thing to ask because of course it will be). Perhaps the question should be, is the bigger ship too big to convey that fantastic feeling that you get on smaller cruises such as with Seadream? I am not at all bothered about a gym as holidays for us are a ‘health-free-zone’. many thanks.
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Thank YOU David ! (I’m in Cambodia at the moment, and I’m glad my wifi is working so that I can respond quickly!) The thing that I like about all of the Windstar ships is that it is so easy to meet other passengers, and, best of all, how great all the staff are and how quickly they learn your name and preferences. So yes, you get that intimate feeling on all of their ships. But yes again, the smaller the ship, the more so you’ll feel it. Hope that helps, and let me know which cruise you choose! Johanna
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Any tips on the Venice to Athens trip? I’ve been to Dubrovnik, Greece, Venice before but not on cruises. Any suggestions?
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I’m not sure that Windstar goes all the way from Venice to Athens, although I think you could combine two cruises. I think Windstar is a lovely way to see that part of the world as you can go into small ports that the big ships can’t, and places that are difficult to drive to if you are travelling via land.
Let me know if you have any specific questions, I’m happy to answer.
Thanks!
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Thank you Traveleater for such a wonderful and informative post! For more information on Windstar Cruises including other posts on guest experiences, destination highlights, and cruise travel tips (including what to pack), check out Windstar’s blog at http://blog.windstarcruises.com/. If you have any other questions feel free to find us on Facebook (facebook.com/WindstarCruises) or email us at socialmedia@windstarcruises.com. We look forward to having you onboard soon!
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Thanks Windstar! I recommend you to many many people and it helps to have even more resources to give them
Dreaming of your upcoming Pacific crossings ….
:-)
Johanna
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The small casino, and the gym. And, unlike almost any other commercial ship at sea, We are due to leave in a little over a week for the Wind Dhow cruise. I Would be so grateful to hear any info on the ship or especially what you did in each port, how you got around, great snorkeling, quiet beaches, etc. We love to learn from others’ experience ! Thanks,
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I’ve not heard of the Wind Dhow — how was your trip?
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Your article was very informative and timely. We leave in three weeks for our first Windstar cruise in the Caribbean on the Windsurf. We absolutely prefer small ship cruising and have used Viking several times. Really looking forward to this different type of ship. Would you please expand on the dress code? My research indicates “resort casual”. Are nice dress shorts and pullover shirts appropriate during the day on deck? Swimsuits? In the evening is it necessary to wear slacks and dress shirt. Being this is going to be in the Caribbean seems like it will be too warm for this. I’ve seen all dress on Viking and I try not to over or under dress. Thanks again.
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Glad the article was helpful!
As far as dress goes, you can think very casual. You will feel out of place in a big tshirt with slogans/writing and in cutoff jean shorts. Not much else is inappropriate. Many people will wear a bathing suit with coverup to day time meals.
At night, the thing to keep in mind is that while temperatures are warm, you’ll be a bit chilled whenever you’re in the wind (and it is quite windy at the bow, where you’ll likely take a post-dinner stroll to visit the bridge). I usually wear a knee length sundress with a cardigan type light sweater to dinner. Some women will wear a bit of sparkle, but i find it unneccesary. I bring only 2 dresses and repeat. There is laundry service on board and it so much easier to travel light.
Older men tend to dress a bit more formally than younger men – khaki pants and a golf shirt or button-down are typical at dinner. Sometimes an older man may wear a jacket. Ties are very rare.
Happy to provide more info if you have other questions!
Johanna
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Perfect. Thanks for the follow up.
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Dear Motley Crew,
We are due to leave in a little over a week for the WindSurf cruise from St. Martin. Would be so grateful to hear any info on the ship or especially what you did in each port, how you got around, great snorkeling, quiet beaches, etc. We love to learn from others’ experience BEFORE we go! Thanks,
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Hi Nancy
Lucky you to be going to St Martin next week! Let me know which ports are on your itinerary and I’ll see what info I have that might be helpful to you. If you have any specific questions, please feel free to ask.
I prefer Windsurf over the 2 smaller boats, but mostly just because it is easier to find a quiet spot in the shade to read (or, to be honest, nap!).
Bon voyage!
Johanna
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I was tentative about Windstar until I read your review! Thank you!
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You’re welcome Renée, and thanks for letting me know!
I’m a big Windstar fan for a relaxing vacation. I’m planning my next trip with them right now … Panama Canal or an ocean crossing I think!
Let me know how your trip goes.
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Thank you so much for taking the time to write this.
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You’re most welcome – and thanks for taking the time to write your comment!
Have you sailed on Windstar and do you have a favourite port?
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To the person who wondered about whether you can eat on the ship when it is in port: yes, you can. Completely your choice. The only time you will notice a change is if they hold a beach barbeque – lunch will still be available on board, but it won’t be as extensive as usual.
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Hi Giuseppe
I’m glad you found the article useful. One of my favourite things about Windstar is that it is so calm and quiet. You feel equally comfortable sitting by yourself with a book or chatting with the person at the next table. There is no pressure to do anything. You only have to be social with others if you want to.
There are many tables for 2. It is possible, I suppose, that at the most popular times for dinner or lunch they might all be full, but I have never had a problem.
I have always wanted to go on the Baltic cruise, please let me know if you enjoy it! (and if you have any tips to share on what to see or eat in port I would welcome them).
Bon voyage!
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Hi,
thanks a lot for your great description of your windstar experience!
I am Italian and i am going to try windstar next summer on a Baltic Cruise!
I just would like to ask u a question: i like cal and quite during mty travel and I dont like feel force to have to know other at any cost…. is it possible on the windstar boat also have the possibility to eat at a table for 2 and have your space to share only if you want to share it ?
I hope that you will understand my question qith my terrible english !
Hope to receive from you !
Giuseppe
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very interesting reading,my wife and i have been on big ship cruises before,but we are really tempted by a transatlantic trip with windstar(even though i,m not the best sailor in the world). one of our worries is that it might be too “posh” for us, even so the thought of sails flapping in the breeze does stir the soul.
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Many thanks!
I’m not sure what your definition of posh is, but I think you’ll be very comfortable on Windstar. They are even a bit more relaxed on a crossing than on a regular cruise.
Windstar has the nice touches, but the overall attitude is very friendly and relaxed. Happy to answer any questions you have!
As far as sailing goes, our crossing was super calm (in fact we had hoped for a small storm!) Weather, of course, changes all the time, but the ship can steer around a lot of the bad weather. The ships have stabilizers so they don’t move around much. If you’re worried about sea sickness, I’d suggest the bigger boat, Wind Surf, and wearing a sea sickness patch or pressure bracelets. There are also free anti-sea sickness pills aboard, just in case.
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We liked the repositioning cruise 2 years ago so much we’re doing it again in the spring. There were only 34 passengers on the last one, with a full crew, so you can imagine the kind of attention you get! It’s much more relaxed and informal on the crossings.
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I love the repositioning cruise! It is incredibly relaxing. Enjoy next spring! :-)
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Hello Wind Surf Fan,
was there any possibility for wind surfing during the repositioning/crossing?
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Hi Elk Just to confirm, though I answered above: there is no windsurfing on the crossing because the ship needs to be at anchor in order to open the watersports deck. Tthe ocean is too deep to anchor until you are very near land.
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