Windstar Cruises Celebrates UNESCO Recognition of Marquesas Islands with Exclusive Special Sailings

Windstar Cruises began operating routes to the Marquesas Islands starting in 2024, providing an exclusive chance for travelers to discover the remote South Pacific archipelago, a location visited by only a few thousand tourists each year. In July, the Marquesas were internationally recognized when they were declared one of UNESCO’s newest World Heritage sites.

In celebration of this status, Windstar is organizing a special celebratory cruise which will set sail on September 26th, 2024, featuring Windstar’s French Polynesian Attache, Hironui Johnston, and 3 mayors from the Marquesas Islands. Another celebratory journey will follow on March 27th, 2025, with opportunities to book suites for both events.

The Marquesas were commended by UNESCO due to their dramatic geographical features, isolated positioning, and the pristine surrounding waters, recognized as some of the planet’s last untouched marine wildernesses. Additionally, the islands’ distinct culture and heritage were highlighted. With over 36 years of operating in French Polynesia, Windstar Cruises has established solid connections with local authorities, allowing the inclusion of the Marquesas in its routes, now having reached a total of 11 South Pacific islands catered to by their line.

Operating year-round, Windstar’s cruises also encompass the Society Islands and the Tuamotus, where they enrich the journey with a designated cultural ambassador present on each voyage. All itineraries feature a complimentary Bora Bora Celebration Destination Discovery Event which includes a private beach party with local performances, such as music and fire dancing. Guests on-board can enjoy local cuisine and beverages, while culturally enlightening shore excursions led by native guides offer extensive cultural understanding.

During the September 26 celebration cruise, mayors from Ua Huka, Fatu Hiva, and Tahuata will share insights on the UNESCO designation process, discuss rahui, a traditional conservation approach, and the collective efforts they’ve made toward empowering future generations. The cruise will also feature workshops on local culture, such as traditional lei making, Haka Manu (Bird Dance) classes, and culinary sessions focusing on Marquesan cuisine like I’a mito and Keukeu.

Further enriching the experience, professional photographers Pat and Rosemarie Keough will lead photography workshops aimed at helping guests capture the breathtaking vistas and lively marine environment of the islands.