Small Windstar Ships Sail New European Routes

Posted onAuthorChris Owen

  • Windstar Cruises is expanding its European portfolio with 12 new itineraries for 2027, featuring the debut of the new yacht Star Explorer.
  • The small ships will enhance access to the Adriatic and Mediterranean, bringing economic benefits to smaller, off-the-beaten-path ports like Portofino and Bonifacio.
  • Unique event-based cruises include an itinerary coinciding with the Monaco Grand Prix and a Total Solar Eclipse sailing in the Aegean Sea in August 2027.
  • The itineraries cover both the Mediterranean (Southern Italy, Sicily, Croatia) and Northern Europe (Netherlands, England, Germany), focusing on personalized luxury travel.

Windstar Cruises is significantly expanding its European presence for the 2027 season, launching 12 new itineraries across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, highlighted by the debut of the highly anticipated Star Explorer. This expansion aims to meet growing demand for exclusive and personalized experiences that utilize the small size of the fleet’s five yachts to access destinations larger ships cannot reach.

The new itineraries emphasize smaller ports and off-the-beaten-path locations, benefiting local economies in places like Sardinia, Bonifacio, and Portofino. New Adriatic escapes, such as the “Off the Beaten Path Adriatic” sailing from Dubrovnik to Venice, and “Venetian Majesty & Spectacular Croatia,” are designed to showcase historic gems and unique cultural experiences in countries like Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia. Other offerings include Southern Italy and Sicilian island-focused itineraries aboard the Star Legend.

Windstar is also capitalizing on unique event-based cruises. The “Race Day & Riviera Charm” itinerary will coincide with the Monaco Grand Prix, attracting motorsport enthusiasts. Another unique voyage is the Wind Surf‘s Total Solar Eclipse sailing in the Aegean Sea in August 2027, which is expected to boost interest in Greek cruises. For Northern Europe, new routes will delve into the maritime history of the Netherlands, England, Belgium, and Germany. The focus on smaller ships and lesser-known ports positions Windstar to promote a more sustainable tourism model in Europe.