Star Explorer by Windstar Cruises Sets Sail for a Mediterranean Winter Like No Other

Source: Windstar Cruises

Reported By: Matthew Kennedy

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.

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:

Southern Spain Winter Escapes (9 nights):

• 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.

Europe’s Winter Riviera (7 nights):

• 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.

Winter Italy & the Dalmatian Coast (8 nights):

• Highlights include Venice, Pompeii, and Dubrovnik, paired with immersive culinary experiences like pizza-making in Sicily and winter light displays in the Adriatic.

Star Collector Voyages (13+ nights):

• 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 onboard experience blends the intimacy of a private yacht with amenities that cater to refined travelers:

• 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

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.