The concept of luxury at sea is changing. Today, exclusivity doesn’t lie in mega-yachts that resemble floating cities, but rather in a deep connection with the maritime environment, the wind, and nature. We’ve had the opportunity to review many ships, but the Wind Surf offers a different philosophy: its cruise line, Windstar Cruises, aptly describes it as a journey that’s “180 degrees out of the ordinary.” After sailing on it, we can attest that it more than lives up to that promise.
The Wind Surf is the shipping company’s flagship, and unlike a traditional cruise ship, it is a yacht that sails with authentic, computer-controlled working sails—which we were able to watch being operated from the bridge. The imposing sight of its five masts cutting through the Mediterranean creates an immersive connection with nature that is both inspiring and majestic for those of us who love the sea. With a maximum capacity of just 342 passengers, the atmosphere on board exudes what the company itself calls “casual elegance.” There are no crowds or long lines; it’s an intimate and deeply nautical experience.
The layout of the private spaces is a true reflection of their exclusivity. These spaces feature ocean views, beds with high-quality linens, and a bathroom stocked with L’Occitane amenities. These rooms invite you to relax, with meticulously curated details such as soft bathrobes, slippers, a television, and a fully stocked minibar—ideal for recharging after a day at sea.
The onboard options go far beyond the ordinary. During the day, you can enjoy a sophisticated bite to eat at the Yacht Club Café, and as night falls, indulge in world-class dining at the main restaurant, Amphora, or savor French specialties at Stella Bistro. Everything is designed for discerning palates and does away with the hassle of fixed seating times typically imposed by conventional transatlantic liners.
The onboard options go far beyond the ordinary. During the day, you can enjoy a sophisticated bite to eat at the Yacht Club Café, and as night falls, indulge in world-class dining at the main restaurant, Amphora, or savor French specialties at Stella Bistro. Everything is designed for discerning palates and does away with the hassle of fixed seating times typically imposed by conventional transatlantic liners.
Field Trips: The Inestimable Value of Going Where Others Cannot
Let’s talk about the perfection of these ships’ competitive advantage, which lies precisely in their ability to chart routes away from the crowds and get closer to the essence of the destinations. After casting off in Barcelona, our first stop took us to the pier in the French city of Sète. Docking in this town—often nicknamed the “Venice of Languedoc” for its picturesque network of canals—allows travelers to immediately immerse themselves in an authentic seaside atmosphere. It is a privilege to step off the ship and stroll directly among its fishing boats, breathing in the salty breeze of a city that has managed to preserve its Mediterranean identity intact, far from the more standardized tourist circuits.
However, it was in Collioure that the yacht truly showed its magic. This type of yacht allows access to anchorages and boutique ports that are out of reach for the giants of the sea. We anchored in its bay, treating ourselves to an unforgettable postcard view with the imposing Royal Castle and the iconic church by the water serving as a backdrop. But stepping ashore in this corner of southern France isn’t just about stepping into the living canvas that captivated the Fauvist painters; it also holds a deep emotional resonance. Wandering through its cobblestone alleys inevitably leads us to pay our respects at the grave of Antonio Machado. The Sevillian poet spent his final days here in exile, and visiting his grave—always covered with flowers, flags, and verses handwritten by travelers from all over—gives the visit a profoundly moving cultural and human dimension.
Anchoring at this beautiful marina gave guests direct access to the waters of the Mediterranean from the ship’s own water sports platform. Being able to jump in for a swim or go paddleboarding directly from the stern of the sailboat in such a stunning natural setting is a truly remarkable and distinctive feature—once again, setting it apart from many other conventional cruises.
For many, sailing on the Wind Surf will mean reconnecting with the essence of the sea. For travelers seeking premium service in a relaxed atmosphere and direct contact with the natural environment, this experience represents the present and future of the industry: fewer passengers, more personalized attention, and the unparalleled pleasure of hearing the wind fill your sails as you head toward your next destination.
Here is the breakdown, written entirely in journalistic prose, uncluttered and without table structures, while maintaining the publication’s rigor and analytical style:
Itineraries
Windstar Cruises’ manageable size and boutique spirit not only result in a more intimate cruising experience, but also in a range of operational and commercial perks designed for the contemporary traveler. For bookings made before June 30, 2027, the company has designed a premium package that eliminates additional costs for the most popular services during the cruise. This program includes unlimited Wi-Fi access throughout the voyage, tips fully covered and included in the fare, and a curated selection of beers, cocktails, and wines by the glass at no additional cost. This complimentary package translates to direct savings of over $1,300 for two people on standard 7-night itineraries.
These yachts’ ability to navigate picturesque canals and dock at private and historic ports is showcased in a select lineup of international itineraries for the coming seasons. In the Mediterranean, the “Treasures of the Greek Islands” route stands out—a round-trip voyage from Piraeus in Athens aboard the Wind Star, scheduled for August 8–15, 2026, with rates starting at 2,547 euros per person. The cruise line also offers the “Italy and the Allure of the Aeolian Islands” itinerary, operated by the Wind Spirit from Civitavecchia from July 30 to August 6, 2026, starting at 1,846 euros per person, and the “Memories of Corsica, Sardinia, and Amalfi” itinerary, also on the Wind Spirit, from July 15 to 28, 2027, starting at 3,224 euros per person.
For those looking to explore northern or Asian regions, the fleet offers truly unique experiences aboard its ships. One such example is “Around Iceland: A Total Solar Eclipse,” a round-trip voyage from Reykjavík aboard the Star Pride, scheduled for August 10–17, 2026, with a starting price of 7,981 euros per person. Meanwhile, the “Gaelic Explorers” route connects Leith in Edinburgh with Dun Laoghaire in Dublin aboard the Star Explorer from August 4 to 12, 2027, starting at 4,593 euros per person. Finally, the “Grand Japan” itinerary offers a deep cultural immersion from Osaka to Tokyo aboard the Star Seeker, from September 16 to 26, 2026, with fares starting at 8,987 euros per person.