Windstar Cruises Welcomes New Star Seeker

  • Official delivery of the Star Seeker yacht took place in Portugal on December 15
  • The ship features 112 suites, five dining venues, and a new watersports marina
  • Advanced environmental technology includes shore power and eco-friendly engines
  • Itineraries will start in the Caribbean before moving to a full season in Alaska

Windstar Cruises has officially accepted delivery of its newest vessel, the Star Seeker, marking a significant milestone in the small-ship line’s fleet expansion. The formal handover took place on December 15 at the West Sea Shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal. As the first new build in the Star Class, the 224-guest all-suite yacht is designed to uphold the company’s tradition of intimate cruising while introducing modern enhancements. President Chris Prelog acknowledged the importance of the event, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship involved in the ship’s creation.

The vessel features 112 ocean-view suites, most of which are equipped with private verandas or floor-to-ceiling infinity windows. High-end accommodations include two new Horizon Owner’s suites with wrap-around balconies. Onboard amenities are extensive, offering guests five distinct dining venues, including the Mediterranean-Asian inspired Basil + Bamboo, as well as a comprehensive WorldSpa facility. The ship also includes a reimagined watersports marina and expansive open decks designed to maximize scenic viewing opportunities.

Technologically, the Star Seeker incorporates advanced sustainability features such as Tier III Rolls-Royce engines, pump jet thrusters, and shore power connectivity to minimize environmental impact. Following its scheduled christening in Miami on January 15, 2026, the yacht will commence its inaugural season in the Caribbean, visiting smaller ports that larger vessels cannot access. Afterward, the ship is set to reposition for a full season of cruising in Alaska. This delivery precedes the arrival of a sister ship, the Star Explorer, which is planned for December 2026.