Star Explorer Explores the Winter Mediterranean: Luxury Without the Crowds

As the luxury yachting segment expands in the global market, Windstar Cruises announced the launch of its new vessel, Star Explorer, in the Mediterranean for the winter season of 2026–2027. 

Voyages will commence on December 28, 2026, featuring a unique design that allows passengers to witness Europe's most beautiful cities during a serene period, far from summer crowds, all while enjoying a luxurious travel experience aboard Windstar's newest vessel.

A Distinctive Inaugural Season

The Star Explorer will embark on its inaugural winter season with nine-day Barcelona to Barcelona voyages, including overnight calls in Florence (Livorno), Barcelona, and Nice, along with visits to additional ports such as Genoa, Catania, and Malaga. 

This move is part of Windstar's strategy to enable guests to "see these legendary cities through a new lens with fewer tourists, all from the comfort of our newest luxury yacht."

Seasonal Plans Covering Culture and Festivals

The winter season will include local activities that add a cultural dimension for travelers, such as:

• The Venice Carnival, which will be highlighted in February.
• The celebration of Epiphany in Greece, adding a spiritual touch and local liturgy.

This marks Windstar's fourth winter season in the Mediterranean, reflecting its continuous success in expanding its presence beyond the peak season.

Selected Ports Despite the Quieter Season

• Livorno (Florence): A full day to explore Florentine art and cuisine, accompanied by locals and experts.
• Barcelona: Nights amidst Gaudi's masterpieces, winter markets, and culinary programs.
• Nice: The essence of the Mediterranean and the beauty of the promenade in winter.
• In addition to calls in Gothic Genoa, and Catania and Malaga with their rich cultural and culinary traditions of the new Mediterranean.

Unique Features of the Star Explorer

The Star Explorer offers an unparalleled luxury yacht experience with its meticulously designed features:

• 112 luxurious suites, including two Horizon Owner's Suites with panoramic balconies.
• An all-suite yacht design in the Star Class style, accommodating only 224 guests, ensuring privacy and an intimate experience.
• Comprehensive services: Wi-Fi, select beverages (wine, beer, cocktails), and included gratuities and specialty dining fees within the Early Booking Offer, valued at over $1,300 per suite.
• Motivating early booking discounts: An additional 5% for immediate payment bookings with the "Pay Now, Save More" offer.
• Yacht-like vessel design: Open spaces such as the Yacht Club Café and the Marina deck, ideal for the elegant Mediterranean winter climate.
• Designed for small port access: The high-quality hull of the vessel allows docking in charming harbors inaccessible to larger ships.

About Windstar Cruises

Founded in 1984 in Miami, Windstar Cruises is currently part of the Xanterra Travel Collection, owned by the Anschutz Group.

Windstar specializes in luxury voyages aboard smaller ships (148-350 passengers), covering over 330 ports worldwide, including Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, Asia, and the Pacific.

The Star Class fleet, which includes Star Pride, Star Breeze, Star Legend, Star Seeker (2025), and Star Explorer (2026), offers a small, luxury yacht experience with personalized services and rich experiences.

Windstar has received several awards, such as "Best Small Cruise Line" from Condé Nast and AFAR, in recognition of its unique experience.

A New Direction for the European Winter

According to Jess Peterson, Director of Destinations Experience, winter is the perfect opportunity to see the Mediterranean without crowds. "This is the moment Windstar comes in strongly," she says, promising a season full of delightful and refreshing discoveries, like a glass of wine on the yacht's deck.

The launch of the Star Explorer for the European winter of 2026–2027 represents a qualitative leap in the concept of luxury yacht travel. 

By offering the discovery of classic cities through a new lens, personalized service, and comprehensive features, Windstar provides an unparalleled experience.

This is an invitation for those who prefer the winter warmth on the Mediterranean shores, with the serene rhythm of voyages and a luxurious touch that expresses the authentic spirit of yachting—where luxury is quieter, and memories are deeper.