Following the success of its significant motor yacht enhancements, Windstar Cruises will next embark on a multimillion-dollar initiative to improve its original sailing ships, with Wind Spirit, Wind Star and Wind Surf to be updated through 2026.
“Our sailing ships are beloved by Windstar guests,” said Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar. “Being on the ship under sail is unforgettable, and brings an element of freedom and romance to every voyage."
Just-Completed Enhancements Onboard Wind Star
To start, the 148-guest Wind Star has just completed its initial, phase-one refurbishment. Among its updates are an expanded lobby with more reception space, additional seating and extra room for retail. The daytime relaxation and evening entertainment lounge has also received a new layout that’s “meant to foster connections between people with a living room-like ambiance,” according to the line. (This includes fresh furnishings, lighting and other finishes).
Our sailing ships are beloved by Windstar guests. Being on the ship under sail is unforgettable, and brings an element of freedom and romance to every voyage.
Elsewhere, Star’s World Spa by Windstar and the gym have been redesigned with new enhancements, a refined color palette and the latest exercise equipment.
The spa has been refreshed.
Credit: 2023 Windstar CruisesThe pool deck has been even more dramatically renewed. By removing a skylight, a new pool and jacuzzi have been added, while the pool bar has been extended. Rounding out the space are new sofas, poufs, ottomans and chairs, as well as speakers, lighting, decor and more — putting the cherry on top for deck parties.
In partnership with Fountainhead Arts in Miami, Star received a new curated collection of fine art pieces; the partnership will continue with the other two sailing ships. All art centers around the themes of nature, organic materials and the essence of yachting.
A second renovation phase for Star, taking place in 2026, will include an update to its passenger cabins, the Amphora main dining room and the Veranda lunch and breakfast restaurant.
“The design inspiration really developed from the yachts themselves,” said Jessica Payne, manager of interior design for Windstar. “I studied classic and modern yacht architecture to develop the sophisticated design foundation, and then went on to add pops of fun and peeks of relief inspired by our sails, the sea, the cities we visit and our guests. Stepping into the lobby as you embark is about feeling a sense of stepping onto your own private yacht, but experiencing the service of a luxury boutique hotel.”
I studied classic and modern yacht architecture to develop the sophisticated design foundation, and then went on to add pops of fun and peeks of relief inspired by our sails, the sea, the cities we visit and our guests.
Planned Updates for Wind Spirit and Wind Surf
As for the other ships — the 148-guest Spirit and the 342-guest Surf — the former will receive similar improvements in 2025, and the latter will be done in phases, one each in 2024 and 2026.
When all three are finished, the vessels will be modified with updated layouts, furnishings, wall and floor coverings, illumination and bespoke art, plus added Wi-Fi access points and bigger interactive televisions with on-demand programing and the line’s Wayfinder application.
Updates are planned for the ships’ staterooms.
Credit: 2023 Windstar CruisesLastly, passenger staterooms, Premium Suites and Owner’s Suites will all benefit from new furniture and decor.
“This multi-year, multimillion-dollar initiative is all about providing guests with updated spaces that inspire relaxation, foster connection and offer multifunctional needs of an intimate-size sailing yacht,” said Stijn Creupelandt, vice president of hotel operations and product development for Windstar. “Spending time on our yachts is all about moments of connection, whether that be guest to guest or guest to crew, and we want to make sure our spaces reflect that desire.”
