Windstar Cruises has unveiled its newest yacht, Star Seeker, marking a significant step for the company and the broader luxury cruise market. The vessel, launched in Miami Thursday night, represents Windstar’s first new-build ship in three decades, signaling a commitment to expansion and a redefined cruising experience.
Intimate Luxury at Sea
Star Seeker distinguishes itself through its small size and focus on upscale amenities. With just 112 suites, all featuring private verandas or floor-to-ceiling windows, the yacht caters to travelers seeking a more intimate atmosphere than typical large cruise ships offer. The ship accommodates 224 guests, boasting a full-service spa, pool, whirlpool, gym, and five dining venues—a notable number given the vessel’s scale.
Windstar’s Chief Operating Officer, Stijn Creupelandt, emphasized that Star Seeker was designed to “encourage experiences” synonymous with the Windstar brand. This includes open decks, secluded seating, and a signature Yacht Club bar—a brand staple that seamlessly transitions from coffee service to cocktails.
Accessing Exclusive Destinations
The yacht’s size is not merely a matter of comfort; it unlocks access to destinations inaccessible to larger cruise lines. Janet Bava, Windstar’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted this advantage, stating the company aims to provide “experiential, culturally immersive” voyages with “quality food” and access to unique ports.
A key benefit is the ship’s marina, allowing passengers to kayak, snorkel, and paddleboard directly from the yacht. Furthermore, Star Seeker can dock in Venice, Italy—a privilege denied to larger ships due to recent regulations that require them to dock far outside the city center. This ability to offer walk-off access to sought-after destinations is a major selling point.
Expansion into New Markets
The launch of Star Seeker supports Windstar’s broader expansion plans. The ship will begin its inaugural season in the Caribbean before redeploying to Alaska this summer—a route unavailable since 2023—and then to Japan in late 2026 and 2027.
The company’s soon-to-debut sister ship, Star Explorer, will further support this growth by servicing European itineraries, including river ports and city centers. The ability to offer more destinations is central to Windstar’s strategy. According to Creupelandt, “The only way we could go back to Alaska… was to grow our brand.”
Windstar is betting that discerning travelers will prioritize access to unique destinations and a more personalized experience over the sheer scale of mass-market cruises.
The launch of Star Seeker is not just about a new ship; it’s about reshaping expectations for luxury cruising. By focusing on intimacy, destination access, and experiential travel, Windstar is positioning itself as a premium alternative in a crowded market.
