A Unique Concept In Cruising
Sailing under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180 From Ordinary," Windstar was created in the mid-1980's with the vision to offer an alternative to the typical cruise or resort vacation. The Windstar passenger sees the world from a romantic sailing ship with luxurious accommodations, a casual yet elegant atmosphere, and exquisite service and cuisine. When you set sail on Windstar, your journey is as magical as your destination. What better way to experience a fabled sea of tropical islands or chic European ports than from the teak deck of an elegant sailing ship Windstar's intimate voyages bring together a deep sense of ease and adventure, from sailing, sunning and dining aboard motorized sailing yachts to exploring each port of call on your dream itinerary. All is possible under brilliant white sails!
Well known for cruising off the beaten path, Windstar Cruises sail to exotic locales and hidden harbours that larger ships cannot access. These stately vessels turn heads from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to the Far East. From the beginning, Windstar was designed to interact intimately with nature and the destinations they call on, giving guests a rare experience of the world at its best: hidden harbours, classic sailing playgrounds, chic European ports, rainforest- clad coastlines, isolated beaches and more. Further ways to enhance that privileged view are: later departures, more overnights in popular ports, "at anchor water sports, offthebeaten track destinations and an onboard naturalist on select itineraries.
A day aboard Windstar sailing vessels offers unstructured freedom and all manner of inspiring pursuits (including the option of doing nothing at all). In addition to guest favourites such as heavenly treatments in the Windspa, the Discover Scuba Diving program, or water sports activities from the ship's aft Marina Deck, Windstar has added new amenities that enrich the days many pleasures, such as "hammocks in the breeze," an enhanced fitness centre with new workout equipment and crisp new awnings and comfortable deck furniture.
Expeditions in relaxation take on many forms aboard a Windstar cruise. Probably one of the best adventures of all is the simple yet profound exploration of your pillow. An experience enhanced more than ever by the new, high thread count Egyptian cotton that covers the plush mattresses and any semblance of stress. Just remember to leave your stateroom once in a while. Enhancements to Windstars staterooms include: "Wireless on Windstar," flat- panel televisions and enhanced programming, CD & DVD players, luxurious Euro-top mattresses and fine linens, Waffle Terry Spa Robe, butler-style luggage mats and a host of other little luxuries.
Dining
Windstar is honoured to present 100 new recipes created by world-renowned celebrity chef Joachim Splichal of the Patine Group restaurants. Have you ever wondered what a symphony tasted like You'll find out. In addition Windstar have added a new "Vintner's Reserve" Wine List featuring small-lot wines coveted in the connoisseur community, exclusive private reserves and rarely obtainable fine wines. Look for sought- after vintages such as Caymus Special Selection, Chateau Petrus and Vega Sicila.
Personalised Service
For years Windstar Cruises have been known for having the highest staff-to-guest ratio in their class. But true service is not a maths equation. In fact, Windstar service takes on a different meaning for every guest. Because not only does Windstar staff have an uncanny ability to remember your name and your favourite drink, they also have a sense of when to leave you alone. Added features to Windstar's already famous service include: new Course-by-Course Stateroom Cuisine, "sorbet in the sun," tableside aprs dinner cheese service and icy cool towels offered topside.
The Ships
In late 1986, the first commercial sailing vessel built in 60 years slipped out of a French dry-dock in Le Havre. Although the towering sails echoed a bygone era of explorers, the msy Wind Star, with its sleek lines and computerized controls, was revolutionary in concept and design.
Windstar's ships are officially masted-sail-yachts (msy), 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 microchips 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 ships intriguing capabilities to modern day explorers.
The 148-passenger Wind Star was joined by sister ships the msy Wind Song in 1987, and msy Wind Spirit in 1988. A new era in luxury cruising was now being pioneered by Windstar Cruises. Nearly a decade later in 1998, the 308-passenger msy Wind Surf was acquired by Windstar. Sailing originally as Club Med I, the Wind Surf was built in 1990 in the same shipyard to strikingly similar specifications as her sister ships, making her a perfect match for the four fleet family.
Shipboard Life
Windstar's unique concept of sailing has lead the cruise industry in the luxury small ship, casual attire, and alternative dining arenas. Pioneering and refining these concepts has earned Windstar an excellent reputation and market niche, winning the allegiance of a new generation of contemporary cruise vacationers, one-third of whom are first-time cruisers.
Teak decking, rich wood interiors, an attentive service staff, intimate surroundings, eclectic artwork, exceptional signature cuisine featuring both light and vegetarian menu selections, and an extensive wine list are some of the extraordinary elements which have become synonymous with Windstar. Features unique to the Wind Surf include 31 deluxe suites, a Business/Internet Center, The Bistro, and the 10,000 square foot WindSpa offering a full array of spa treatments, consultative, health and fitness programs.
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