Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises' Casual Elegance - Windstar Cruises' "Casual Elegance" breeds relaxation. The Windstar Cruises' "Casual Elegance" design is comprised of three elements: the ship design, combined with the onboard environment and the Windstar Cruises' "Casual Elegance" attitude.

The Windstar Cruises Ship Design - Each Windstar Cruises ship, framed in striking white sails, is elegant, graceful, but designed to be functional and comfortable. There are public and private places. Lots of light and air, ocean views everywhere on Windstar Cruises. Simple and superb - all outside staterooms. An inviting layout, easy to get around. The natural fabrics and rich woods are impeccably maintained - and you may pass a priceless Rauschenberg on your way to the sports platform. This beautiful Windstar Cruises ship design stimulates a unique environment.

The Windstar Cruises Environment - Unregimented. Unstructured. Giving you the freedom to choose to have all the privacy you want, or to be pampered. Windstar Cruises service that is attentive when you need it to be. A warm, smiling Windstar Cruises staff that gets to know what you like. The Windstar Cruises bridge is almost always open for your visit. There are many activities at hand, but never imposed.


Windstar Cruises Caribbean Cruises
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to the Caribbean. St. Thomas, St. John, St. Martin and Barbados are just a few of the destinations that Windstar Cruises visits in the beautiful Caribbean.

Somewhere between the deep-red clock tower of Ft. Christian in St. Thomas, the verdant green forests surrounding Grenada and the rainbow-hued orchids in the gardens of Nevis...an astonishing thought occurs: You have just discovered the color of happiness. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises Bridgetown/Barbados
Cruise Marketplace has discount Windstar cruise deals to Bridgetown. An infectiously happy island, with beautiful beaches, balmy weather, and a delightful British flair. As a result of its successful sugar economy in the 17th- to 19th-centuries, you'll find large manor estates full of fine Barbados mahogany and antiques, along with gaily painted wooden frame houses- the essence of the festive Caribbean. Rum rules in Barbados, and, over the centuries, cane plantations have divided the Bajan landscape into a pretty patchwork of fields, coconut and royal palms, breadfruit, oleander, and citrus trees.

Windstar Cruises Bequia/Grenadines
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to the Grenadines. Life in Bequia revolves around the sea. Walk through the pretty town of Port Elizabeth, set on one of the loveliest and best-sheltered harbors in the Caribbean, and you'll see fish nets drying in the sun. Boats are built on the beach in the shade of palm trees, and many yachtsmen have come here to have a fine schooner built by hand. (Or take home a model ship, perfect in detail.) Once an active whaling station, Bequia today is a favorite among Caribbean insiders and yachties for its unspoiled beauty and easy pace. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises Mayreau/Grenadines
Love beaches? This is the place to be: in the north of Mayreau is Salt Whistle Bay, a perfect half moon beach, separating the Atlantic from the Caribbean side with a sand spit only 50 yards wide, fringed by palm trees. The windward side of Mayreau is one huge deserted beach; you could spend days picnicking, sunbathing and snorkeling in the underwater world of Mayreau Garden. The southwestern, leeward beach is Saline Bay, nearly a mile of white sand with calm, clear water - ideal to bring your family!

Windstar Cruises Pigeon Island/St. Lucia
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to Pigeon Island. The twin towers of the Pitons, two volcanic peaks rising to more than 2,400 feet, mark St. Lucia, an island of lush green valleys, acres of banana plantations, and bubbling sulfur springs. 24 miles of vibrant reef make St. Lucia a haven for divers and snorkelers. Pigeon Island National Park, a 40-acre island connected to the mainland by a causeway, was once a pirates' hideaway. Today, impressive ruins of old English forts, archaeological relics of Arawak Indians, and splendid beaches make this a fascinating place to explore.

Windstar Cruises Roseau/Dominica
Stately mountains form a velvet-green backdrop to this picturesque town where the streets are lined with old stone-and-wood buildings. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises St. George's/Grenada
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to St. George. A lively blend of French and English cultures, St. George's has steep hills to climb, spectacular views to photograph and a rum distillery to tour. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises Charlotteville/Tobago
Cruise Marketplace has discount Windstar cruise deals to Charlotteville. Tobago is a classic West Indian haven, the subdued sister of flashy Trinidad nearby. When the plantation lifestyle collapsed with the world sugar market in 1888, land was sold to slaves, and over time, Africans here have held on to their cultural richness. West African music, folklore and beliefs- including obeah, the island's magic - still thrive, as do several hundred species of tropical birds, living in virgin rain forests and along Tobago's deserted beaches.

Windstar Cruises ST. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to St. Thomas. The largest and most developed of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas lives up to license plates proclaiming "American Paradise." Steep hills carpeted in green give way to dramatic views of the yacht-lined bay, St. John, and the British Virgin Isles. Charlotte Amalie, the bustling waterfront seat of government, exudes Danish charm. And Magens Bay Beach on the north end is considered by many travel writers to be among the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world. One of the biggest pluses is the shopping here: unset gems (emeralds, diamonds, and sapphires, for example), liquor, and perfume are duty-free.

Windstar Cruises ST. John, U.S.V.I.
The Smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, more than half of St. John is reserved as a national park. Natural wonders abound on this peaceful island. As many as 160 species of birds cavort in the trees. The hawksbill turtle nests on St. John beaches, and beneath the sea, coral reefs are alive with colorful fish. Beaches are spectacular - unspoiled, powdery sand, crystalline waters - the quintessential Caribbean. Trunk Bay, touted as one of the most beautiful in the world, has a 225 yard self-guided snorkeling trail marked by underwater signs that identify coral reef life. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises St. Martin/F.W.I.
Cruise Marketplace has discount Windstar cruise deals to St. Martin. Half-Dutch, half-French, the island of Saint Maarten/St. Martin is considered the smallest territory in the world shared by two sovereign states. Only a small welcome sign on the road indicates you have passed from one country to another, but the contrasts are marked. Marigot, on the French side, is small and chic - a kind of St. Tropez of the Caribbean, lined with shops, bistros, and charming cafés. Philipsburg on the Dutch side features Front Street, whose gingerbread West Indian buildings house excellent duty-free shopping. St. Martin has 37 white sand beaches, each with its own unique feel.

Windstar Cruises St. Barthelemy/F.W.I.
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to St. Barthelemy. Tiny, picture-perfect St. Barts has long been the haunt of the very rich who come for privacy, gorgeous beaches, and exquisite French cuisine. It has 20 or more magnificent beaches, linked by hilly narrow roads you can explore in open-air Jeeps or "mini-mokes." In Gustavia, the island's Lilliputian port, quaint streets lead past small markets and bakeries - and dozens of small shops selling French perfumes, sportswear, watches, and crystal. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises Tortola/B.V.I.
Legend has it that after Christopher Columbus discovered the other Caribbean islands, he returned to Tortola to live. Tortola is a sailor's isle, its wealth of inlets and harbors having been transformed into luxurious moorings and mini-ports for Caribbean yachtsmen. Days revolve around water sports and sunbathing on stunning beaches like Cane Garden Bay, with its deep wide sand bed, gentle slope, and terrific views.

Windstar Cruises Jost Van Dyke/B.V.I.
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to Jost Can Dyke. Inviting beaches and tiny shops selling local treasures welcome you to this quiet island haven. Don't miss dining with your feet in the sand at Foxy's on the beach-a perfect lunch stop! Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises Virgin Gorda/B.V.I.
The most chic resorts of the British Virgin Isles are located on Virgin Gorda, an eight-square-mile island divided nearly in two, with settlements at each end. The south of the island is best known for the curious assembly of house- sized rocks called "the Baths," which are jumbled together to form huge underground pools and caverns. The beach at the Baths is large, wide, and sandy - perfect for sunning and swimming.

Windstar Cruises Basse Terre/St. Kitts
Basseterre, set against the irresistible backdrop of St. Kitts' emerald green hills and punctuated by elegant Georgian architecture, is one of the best of the Caribbean's small capitals. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises Nevis
Cruise Marketplace has discount Windstar cruise deals to Nevis. This 36-square-mile island lies near the top of the Lesser Antilles archipelago, about 200 miles south of Puerto Rico, and just west of Antigua. This island jewel is approximately 7 miles long and 5 miles wide, with natural vegetation that is unparalleled. Green and serene, Nevis is truly one of the remaining unspoiled places and proudly carries the name, "Queen of the Caribees." From the top of the 3,232-foot Nevis Peak to the depths of the clear waters offshore, there is a world of flora and fauna to be explored. In the hills, the comical green vervet monkeys chatter and scamper; in the sea, the whales cruise by. Stroll around and see the architecture of eras gone by: churches, windmills, and refurbished Great Houses. Its 10,000 residents are friendly and helpful, ready to make new friends and welcome back regular visitors. The genuine charm and hospitality radiate into the unspoken: "Welcome, Be my guest, and Do come again." Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.

Windstar Cruises Basse Terre/Guadaloupe, F.W.I.
Cruise Marketplace has cheap Windstar cruises to Guadaloupe. Another perfect place for photography. Visit the enchanting Deshaies Botanical Gardens and produce a masterpiece. Call CruiseMarketplace.com at 1-800-826-4333 to book your cheap Windstar cruises today.


Sailing under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180º From Ordinary," Windstar was created in the mid-1980's with the vision to offer an alternative to the typical cruise or resort vacation. The Windstar passenger sees the world from a romantic sailing ship with luxurious accommodations, a casual yet elegant atmosphere, and exquisite service and cuisine.

Our staff of 90 (Wind Spirit and Wind Star) and 190 (Wind Surf), more than one crew member for every two guests, is on call around the clock, and the result is the level of personal service that's recognized among cruising's "Best." Windstar, in fact, was designed to offer an alternative to modern cruising, wrapped up in the soul of a magnificent yacht.

There's simply an untethered joy in sailing, in traveling at a relaxed pace, with the brilliance of the sun and stars overhead. Long teak decks warm the soles of your bare feet. In the distance lie islands, their lush green shoulders rising from the sea, while just a few feet below a school of playful dolphins surf the ship's wake. Out here, the sails fill with the trade winds, time slows down and the world seems to expand. It's as if you can hear the earth breathing. Or is that you?

The Ships of Windstar Cruises
In late 1986, the first commercial sailing vessel built in 60 years slipped out of a French dry-dock in Le Havre. Although the towering sails echoed a bygone era of explorers, the msy Wind Star, with its sleek lines and computerized controls, was revolutionary in concept and design.

Windstar's ships are officially motor-sail-yachts (msy), but the designation belies the vessels' unique rigging. Unfurling in two minutes at the push of a button, billowing white sails reach to the sky. All functions are operated from the bridge by computer micro-chips and navigational devices. The unusual "open-bridge" operation allows guests to drop by and acquaint themselves with the veteran captains and officers who demonstrate the ships' intriguing capabilities to modern day explorers.

The 148-passenger Wind Star was joined by sister ships the msy Wind Song in 1987, and msy Wind Spirit in 1988. A new era in luxury cruising was now being pioneered by Windstar Cruises. Nearly a decade later in 1998, the 312-passenger msy Wind Surf was acquired by Windstar. Sailing originally as Club Med I, the Wind Surf was built in 1990 in the same shipyard to strikingly similar specifications as her sister ships, making her a perfect match for the four fleet family.

Windstar Cruises Shipboard Life
Windstar's unique concept of sailing has led the cruise industry in the luxury small ship, casual attire, and alternative dining arenas. Pioneering and refining these concepts has earned Windstar an excellent reputation and market niche, winning the allegiance of a new generation of contemporary cruise vacationers, one-third of whom are first-time cruisers.

Teak decking, rich wood interiors, an attentive service staff, intimate surroundings, eclectic artwork, exceptional signature cuisine featuring both light and vegetarian menu selections, and an extensive wine list are some of the extraordinary elements which have become synonymous with Windstar. Features unique to the Wind Surf include 31 deluxe suites, 2 Bridge Deck suites, The Yacht Club, Degrees (formerly The Bistro), The Terrace Bar for small intimate getaways and the nearly 10,000 square foot WindSpa offering a full array of spa treatments, consultative, health and fitness programs.

Passengers are cradled in comfort as all staterooms and suites offer ocean views, sitting area, new LCD flatscreen TV, DVD, CD player, iPod Nanos and Bose SoundDocks systems, safe, mini-bar/refrigerator, international direct-dial phones, bathroom with luxurious pampering toiletries, hair dryer, plush terry cloth robes, and an abundance of closet space. The library on board stocks an array of international newspapers, books and games, as well as a multi-media selection of more than 500 DVD titles and compact discs available for complimentary check-out.

Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, Windstar ships exude a private-yacht-like atmosphere creating camaraderie and lasting friendships between fellow sailors. Every day aboard Windstar brings the promise of new horizons and harbors to explore.

An interesting mix of shore excursions and complimentary water sports activities are available at each destination. Passengers may find themselves slicing through Caribbean waters aboard an actual America's Cup racing yacht, or exploring archaeological ruins in Greece, the "Cradle of Civilization." Water buffs can enjoy complimentary water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and kayaking from the ship's aft Water Sports Platform.

The company's cruise vacations offer a sea-side window on the world, combining the refinement of a luxury hotel with a moveable feast of cultural experiences.

Seattle-based Windstar Cruises operates the 312-passenger Wind Surf and 148- passenger Wind Star and Wind Spirit. The three sailing yachts cruise to over 47 countries worldwide offering an affordable luxury vacation.



No assigned seating in Windstar Cruises The Restaurant or Windstar Cruises Degrees (formerly The Bistro). And what can be more casual than merely signing for onboard purchases? Windstar Cruises guests feel like this is their ship, their yacht. The environment inspires the attitude.

The Windstar Cruises Attitude - "Casual Elegance" is an attitude, brought about by a luxurious Windstar Cruises ship design and an environment of freedom... allowing guests to relax and enjoy their vacations as they would like. The attitude is found in Windstar Cruises staff and Windstar Cruises guests. Windstar Cruises staff members are efficient in an unassuming, relaxed way. They are respectful of Windstar Cruises guests. Flexible. Approachable. And experienced in knowing people and the role service plays in the enjoyment of their vacations.

The "Casual Elegance" of a Windstar Cruises ship is also reflected in the way our guests dress: Imaginative, yet relaxed. Stylish, yet comfortable. Just as you would dress at an elegant resort. Clothes that are light and cool, made of natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen, are most appropriate. For women's daytime wear, Windstar Cruises suggests walking shorts, skirts, sarongs, lightweight tops and cover-ups; for evening wear, sun dresses, pants, informal cocktail attire. Men's daytime wear: walking/ Bermuda shorts, polo shirts, khaki pants; in the evening, lightweight trousers and short-sleeved dress/polo shirts. No suits or ties. And no shorts, jeans, or t-shirts in Windstar Cruises The Restaurant or Windstar Cruises Degrees (formerly The Bistro) during the evening. If your Windstar Cruises cruise takes you to Monte Carlo, please note that casinos there require men to wear both a tie and jacket.