Windstar Cruises has completed a full transformation of its original 148-guest sailing yacht, Wind Star, marking a major milestone in the brand’s groundbreaking Setting Sails Initiative.
The renovation of Windstar’s Wind Class fleet, which began with the debut of Wind Star 40 years ago, is designed to preserve the soul of these much-loved vessels, with Wind Star becoming the first in the fleet as of April to complete both phases of the refurbishment program already introduced across her sister yachts.
“This transformation is about honouring where we started while sailing confidently into what’s next,” Windstar Cruises chief operating officer Stijn Creupelandt said. “As our original sailing yacht, Wind Star has always held a special place in our fleet.
“With these significant updates, we’ve honoured what guests love most while elevating every aspect of the experience. Now, she’s ready to deliver that experience in entirely new ways, in some of the world’s most iconic destinations.”
The 342-guest Wind Surf is scheduled to complete Phase 2 in December 2026, followed by Wind Spirit in March 2027, ensuring the entire sailing fleet reflects the brand’s modern yacht aesthetic while preserving its timeless character.
What’s new?
The completion of Phase 2 marks the final stage of a comprehensive redesign of Wind Star, bringing a more refined, modern feel to the onboard experience and enhancing how guests dine, relax and connect.
At the heart of the update is a reimagining of the yacht’s dining venues. Amphora, the signature restaurant, has been fully redesigned with new flooring, wall finishes, and ceiling treatments, along with custom banquette seating and updated furnishings.
At Veranda, a refreshed interior is paired with a completely reimagined buffet layout to create a more seamless and relaxed dining experience.
Stateroom updates elevate comfort with new upholstered headboards, integrated lighting, and convenient bedside charging, building on Phase 1 enhancements, such as upgraded technology, Starlink connectivity, new TVs with on-demand content, and a redesigned Owner’s Suite.
Earlier upgrades also transformed the yacht’s most visible spaces, including the lobby, Compass Rose Lounge, Yacht Club Cafe, and pool deck, along with a fully refreshed World Spa by Windstar and an upgraded fitness center.
Across the yacht, finishing touches such as commissioned artwork created in partnership with Miami-based Fountainhead Art to enhanced lighting, state-of-the-art audio systems, new teak decking, and refined design details. These elements bring the transformation together, reinforcing Windstar’s signature “home at sea” feel.
Where to sail
- Tahiti (2027): In a significant expansion for the brand, Wind Star joins Star Breeze in French Polynesia, offering year-round sailings in Tahiti. She operates the beloved 7-day Dreams of Tahiti itinerary, giving guests more opportunities than ever to experience the region with Windstar. This expansion further positions Windstar as the market leader in Tahiti, complemented by newly released 2028 sailings.
- Mediterranean (Spring 2026): Wind Star continues with additional sailings from Barcelona through May and June, offering guests a richly layered look at the Mediterranean’s culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.
- Greek Isles (Summer–Fall 2026): From June through October, Wind Star operates 7-night roundtrip voyages from Athens (Piraeus). These sailings capture the essence of Windstar’s yacht-style experience, docking steps from the heart of each destination and allowing more time to explore.
