Luxury travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate European escape will find their answer aboard Star Explorer, Windstar Cruises’ newest addition to its celebrated Star Class fleet. Launching on December 28, 2026, Star Explorer signals a refined evolution in boutique yacht cruising—bringing winter-season Mediterranean travel into the spotlight with a curated blend of design, culture, and comfort.
With a guest capacity of just 224 and access to ports unreachable by larger ships, Star Explorer delivers Windstar’s signature yacht-style experience: immersive, unhurried, and anchored in local authenticity.
Off-season doesn’t mean off-limits—in fact, Windstar views winter as Europe’s best-kept secret.
“Winter is when the Mediterranean slows down—and that’s when Windstar steps in. With Star Explorer, we’re offering guests a chance to see these legendary places with fresh eyes and fewer crowds, all in the comfort of our newest yacht.”Jess Peterson, Director of Destination Experience & Itinerary Planning
From Venice’s vibrant Carnevale to the twinkling markets of Southern Spain and the sunlit promenades of Nice, Star Explorer’s itineraries make the most of a season often overlooked by traditional cruise lines. Overnight stays in cities like Florence, Barcelona, and Málaga allow for deeper immersion, while smaller ports like Genoa and Catania offer rare access with seasonal authenticity.
Windstar’s upcoming winter season is brimming with thoughtfully designed voyages that balance iconic landmarks with quiet coastal enclaves:
The inaugural voyage sails through Barcelona, Málaga, and Gibraltar, with options for a land extension to Madrid. Think Gaudí architecture, Andalusian kitchens, and views across the Strait to North Africa.
This journey includes overnight stays in Florence and Barcelona with stops in Genoa and Marseille—tailor-made for those who want Renaissance treasures and Catalan flair minus the summer swell.
Highlights include Venice, Pompeii, and Dubrovnik, paired with immersive culinary experiences like pizza-making in Sicily and winter light displays in the Adriatic.
These extended itineraries combine multiple cruises for a deeper dive across the region, with perks like complimentary laundry and reduced port duplication.
Star Explorer boasts 112 all-suite accommodations, including two Horizon Owner’s Suites with sweeping wraparound balconies—ideal for morning espresso under a Mediterranean sunrise.
The Yacht Club Café for relaxed, all-day dining
A signature Marina Deck for sea-level lounging and watersports
Access to Windstar’s World Spa, where curated wellness treatments await
Personalized, intuitive service from a crew known for its warmth and professionalism
Guests who reserve their voyage by July 31, 2025, can take advantage of Windstar’s Early Booking Offer, which includes:
A complimentary All-Inclusive package with Wi-Fi, select beverages, and gratuities (a value of $1,300 per stateroom on a 7-day cruise)
Up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom
An additional 5% fare discount for guests who opt for full payment at booking via the Pay Now, Save More promotion
These promotions provide an attractive entry point into an elevated cruise experience that prioritizes seasonal nuance, regional cuisine, and intimate cultural access.
Star Explorer is part of Windstar Cruises’ ongoing evolution. With the brand's expansion to eight yachts by 2027—including the debut of Star Seeker in late 2025—Windstar is deepening its position as the leader in luxury small-ship cruising. The brand currently sails to more than 330 ports worldwide, offering year-round itineraries in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Japan, the South Pacific, and beyond.