 Sailing under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180º From Ordinary", Windstar Cruises was created in the mid-1980’s as an alternative to the typical resort vacation. Aboard a Windstar cruise, passengers will experience the world from a romantic ship with luxurious accommodations, a casual yet elegant atmosphere, and exquisite service and cuisine. As soon as you step on board you will know you have just embarked on one of the most luxurious, relaxing and pampering experiences of a lifetime. Windstar Cruises’ ships are officially masted-sail-yachts, but the designation belies the vessels unique rigging. Unfurling in two minutes at the push of a button, billowing white sails reach to the sky. All functions are operated from the bridge by computer micro-chips and navigational devices. The unusual "open-bridge" operation allows guests to drop by and acquaint themselves with the veteran captains and officers who demonstrate the ship’s intriguing capabilities to modern day explorers. Well known for cruising off the beaten path, Windstar Cruises sails to exotic locales and hidden harbours that larger liners cannot access. Bask under palm trees on white sand beaches in the Caribbean or explore the rich coast and lush rainforests of Costa Rica. Travel to Europe, a continent that is always changing yet remains timeless. Enjoy the beauty of the Greek Isles surrounded by crystal blue waters or experience the true freedom of sailing on a Transatlantic journey. Make discoveries of a lifetime aboard Windstar Cruises’ striking ships and be assured that you’ll travel in timeless elegance.
AccommodationsCombining the classic luxury of a sailing ship with today’s modern amenities is Windstar Cruises’ forte. The sleek yacht-like design of Windstar’s ships feature all outside staterooms with ample space for rest and relaxation. Whether you’re staying in Windstar’s stateroom, owners’ cabin, or suite you will be provided with amenities designed to make you feel pampered from head to toe. To make sure all of your comfort needs are met, Windstar’s accommodations feature custom Sealy Posturepedic Premium Plush Euro-top mattresses, luxurious cotton bed linens and duvets, Egyptian cotton towels and waffle terry spa bathrobes. Guests will be treated to Shea Butter bathroom amenities including Verbena Shea Butter soap, Verbena shower cream, Shea body lotion, and shine enhancing shampoo and conditioner. Each stateroom also features flat screen TV’s and DVD/CD players. Apple iPod Nanos fully loaded with a broad selection of music may be checked out of reception to be played with Bose SoundDocks located in your room. Windstar is committed to providing you with the most luxurious stay and will ensure that all of your travel needs are met and exceeded. Onboard Amenities and Activities Library Escape into the world of fiction in Windstar Cruises’ wood-paneled library which is both nautical and collegiate. Guests can read, play cards, or check out one of hundreds of DVD’s and CD’s. Fly Bridge Relax on the fly bridge of Windstar Cruises’ ships, which feature two-person hammocks providing a prime relaxation opportunity under the billowing sails. Fitness Facility Maintain your regular fitness program or develop a new one in Windstar’s ocean view gym. Featuring equipment to improve your fitness, you’ll find elliptical trainers, recumbent bikes, a ballet bar, free weights, and a flat screen TV. Or if walking and jogging are more your forte, try Windstar’s unobstructed wraparound deck. SpaSurrender to the pleasures of the WindSpa and refresh your mind, body and soul. Enjoy all of the finest and most relaxing spa treatments available, including a muscle soothing massage, rejuvenating aroma therapy, invigorating body wrap, age defying facials, and purifying body cleansers. You’re sure to feel pampered from head to toe in Windstar’s spa as the dedicated staff sooth and relax your body. Or, head to the salon to make sure you’re looking and feeling your best with facials and hair and nail care. Water Sports Complimentary water sports are available when your ship is at anchor. A water sports platform is lowered from the aft Marina Deck, turning a pristine lagoon into a private water park. Active cruisers can take advantage of Windstar’s complimentary water sports activities including: kayaking, sailing, wind surfing, water skiing and snorkelling. Scuba diving adventures are available for both professional and novice divers. NightlifeHead to the lounge for pre and post dinner socializing. This nautical looking lounge features cozy, partitioned-off nooks and clusters of comfy caramel-coloured leather chairs surrounding a wooden dance floor. Guests can also check out performances by local musicians and dancers. A bar outside on the pool deck is the perfect venue for drinks and chit chat under the stars. Wireless at SeaAll of Windstar Cruises’ ships feature wireless connectivity in public areas so you can stay connected via laptops wherever you are. Send emails, catch up on the latest news, or follow the stock market in Windstar’s Internet Center. DiningDining aboard a Windstar cruise is, in a word, extraordinary. It begins at sunrise with coffee and croissants set out on deck and goes late into the evening, capped off with a cognac from the Pool Bar. The airy Verandah Restaurant, a sunny window-lined room, is open for breakfast and lunch, where dining is inside or al fresco under the shade of huge sun umbrellas. At sunset, the spotlight shifts to dinner and the delicious possibilities ahead. The signature menus were created exclusively for Windstar Cruises by celebrity chefs with an emphasis on local flavours and a dash of imagination and surprise. The spirit of freshness and creativity extends beyond cuisine. There are no formal seating assignments in The Restaurant, no need for a jacket or tie. All guests have to bring is their appetite and high expectations; each evening is a celebration of fine wine and cuisine at its best. Cruising with Family Windstar Cruises does not offer family or children’s programs. The ambiance on board their ships is rather quiet and intimate and thus, is not ideal for children and family cruising. WeddingsChoose to have your wedding on board one of Windstar’s luxurious tall-masted ships or on the sandy beaches of the Caribbean or in the beautiful Greek Isles. Windstar will provide couples with a truly unique atmosphere for their wedding and honeymoon. You’ll be greeted from the moment you arrive at the pier by your personal wedding coordinator. You and your fiancé will receive priority check-in and be the first passengers to board the vessel. You have the option of a private reception featuring hot and cold hor d’oeuvres, a lunch buffet or even a seated luncheon. From tuxedo rentals to the flowers and pampering appointments, your coordinator will take care of every detail from the moment you book your wedding package through the entire big day. Meetings at SeaA Windstar Cruises’ full-ship charter allows the ship to become an extension of your company on the water and in each exotic port of call. Your company can proudly display their logo or crest along side Windstar’s flag for the ultimate exposure. Incentive cruises include cocktail parties, complimentary water sports, room service, afternoon beach barbeques, and evening galas. Take advantage of business cruising options to initiate teambuilding and to reward your staff for a job well done.
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