Windstar Welcomes Star Explorer to Its Fleet for the Winter Mediterranean 2026-2027 Season

Windstar Cruises has announced the arrival of its latest yacht, the Star Explorer, scheduled to join its fleet on December 28, 2026. This new addition marks Windstar’s fourth winter season operating in the Mediterranean and will accommodate 224 passengers. The Star Explorer is designed to enhance the Star Class fleet and offer a unique winter cruising experience, focusing on cultural immersion and access to off-the-beaten-path ports away from summer crowds.

During its inaugural season, the Star Explorer will feature itineraries that include overnight stops in major cultural hubs like Florence (via Livorno), Barcelona, and Nice, as well as visits to quieter ports such as Genoa, Catania, and Málaga. These itineraries will coincide with festive seasonal events like Carnevale in Venice and winter markets throughout the region, allowing guests to enjoy the Mediterranean’s charm in a less crowded environment.

Windstar’s director of destination experience and itinerary planning, Jess Peterson, emphasized that the Mediterranean’s slower winter pace allows passengers to rediscover familiar destinations without the throngs of summer tourists. To enrich the experience, the Star Explorer will offer a variety of cruise options including a 9-night Southern Spain Winter Escapes trip from Barcelona and an 8-night Winter Italy & Dalmatian Coast voyage featuring iconic destinations such as Venice, Pompeii, and Dubrovnik.

Onboard, guests will enjoy luxurious amenities, including 112 suites—two of which are Horizon Owner’s Suites with expansive balconies. Familiar dining and leisure venues will also be present, ensuring the signature Windstar tradition of personalized yacht-style service.

To encourage early bookings, Windstar is offering an all-inclusive package for reservations made by July 31, 2025. This package includes Wi-Fi, select beverages, gratuities worth over US$1,300 for a 7-day cruise, and onboard credit of up to US$200. A 5% discount is available for travelers who pay in full at the time of booking.

The introduction of the Star Explorer represents Windstar’s commitment to providing intimate exploration and culturally immersive experiences in the Mediterranean during the winter season.

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