In case you missed it, yesterday Windstar President Chris Prelog announced some good news that is now official and no longer a secret. Windstar plans to take delivery of two motor yacht vessels scheduled to debut in December 2025 and 2026. The 224-passenger yachts, one of which is new and the other identical in design and only a few years old, will increase capacity by 33% over the existing fleet and give Windstar the flexibility to ultimately explore new territories. It will.
“We are excited to see Windstar growing again after announcing the acquisition yesterday,” Prelog said yesterday. “They’re excited about staying true to our roots through what our guests love about Windstar: intimacy.”
Is it better? For travelers who already love the small-ship Windstar experience, the Star Seeker and Star Explorer will feel right at home.
“These will be full Windstar vessels,” Prelog said, noting that in both cases the vessels will receive Windstar-specific add-ons consistent with their other motor yachts, Star Pride, Star Legend and Star Breeze. “They will give you the full Windstar experience, including everything you know. This includes our great crew, facilities, service, marina, atmosphere, dining options, open bridge policy, and even our popular whirlpool on the bow.
“Better yet, many of the suites on our two new all-suite ships have actual verandas.”
As you would expect, we received a lot of good questions after the announcement. Share your answers below. Have a new question? Please leave a comment and we will contact you.
When can I book a vessel online?
Starseeker is currently under construction. The Star Explorer was built in 2019 and will undergo extensive modifications. Both are all-suite motor yachts.
We plan to confirm Star Seeker's schedule and make reservations available in June 2024. The vessel is scheduled to be delivered to Windstar in December 2025. Star Explorer is scheduled to be delivered in December 2026, and cruise ships are scheduled to begin operations in January 2027. We will keep you posted on when these sailings become available for sale.
What is the capacity of each vessel?
Each ship can accommodate up to 224 guests and 130 crew members.
Please tell us about the onboard suites
- There are 112 suites.
- The Veranda Suite features one bedroom and a full balcony (table and two chairs on deck).
- Infinity Suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows that open halfway.
- Two large one-bedroom owner's suites are built on deck 7, at the stern of the ship. It will have floor-to-ceiling glass windows and wrap around balconies.
- Some suites have a third bed option.
- Several new connectivity suites will be created.
Is there a water sports platform for water activities?
Yes, we are building a yacht style platform at the stern, accessed by stairs from deck 4. The water sports platform is approximately 12 feet wide. Bring kayaks, paddleboards, floating mats and other equipment for guests to use.
What restaurants are on the ship?
- Amphora – Main dining room serving lunch and dinner, with indoor and outdoor dining options. Lunch is a buffet and dinner is full service.
- Steven Raichlen's Star Grill is back. It's on the top deck next to the ship's swimming pool.
- The specialty restaurant (free) can accommodate 38 people. The concept has not been announced yet
- 24/7 indoor dining service
Where should we meet for a drink and socializing?
- Main lounge with living room-style layout, stage, and bar
- The Yacht Club serves as a coffee bar during the day and a cocktail lounge with panoramic 280-degree views in the evening.
- Star Bar returns. It's on the top deck by the pool, next to the Star Grill.
What does the wellness and spa look like at Star Seeker and Star Explorer?
- WorldSpa by Windstar – Newly built on deck 4 with entrance on deck 5. Lounge, hair and nail treatment room, sauna, shower room, 3 massage rooms, changing room
- Fitness room – Technogym equipment and free weights, fitness classes
- Swimming pool and whirlpool on top deck
- Vortex – Adds a new second Vortex to Deck 5 players.
What about the popular ice cream machines on Star Class ships?
of course! We will have a self-serve ice cream machine on board. Our president wouldn't have it any other way.