Windstar Cruises Boosts Mediterranean Presence Following Successful Winter Season
Windstar Cruises is significantly expanding its Mediterranean cruise offerings, riding on the success of its first-ever winter season in the region. The small-ship line’s 312-guest Star Legend will continue to explore the Mediterranean in the next winter season, with new itineraries planned for 2024/25.
Initially slated for voyages in the Middle East, covering the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman, Star Legend’s schedule was altered due to the ongoing conflict in the region. This change led to an unexpected winter season in the Mediterranean, which garnered overwhelmingly positive responses from passengers. The guests’ feedback and the surge in bookings prompted Windstar to further enhance its winter Mediterranean cruises.
Janet Bava, Windstar’s Chief Commercial Officer, shared that the inaugural Mediterranean sailing in December received high praise from travel advisors and guests. They found value in experiencing Europe’s sunny weather and walkable cities during a season when few cruise lines operate in the region. This success highlighted the need for more varied itineraries beyond the initial Rome to Barcelona route.
For the upcoming winter season, Windstar will offer five new itineraries aboard Star Legend in the Mediterranean, along with three special holiday and event sailings. This expansion allows guests to choose from different back-to-back itineraries, providing more diverse experiences.
The new itineraries include an 8-day cruise from Rome to Venice, a 7-day journey from Rome to Barcelona, an 8-day sailing from Athens to Rome, a 9-day roundtrip from Barcelona, and an 8-day cruise from Venice to Athens. These cruises provide opportunities to explore various destinations in Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro.
Additionally, Windstar is planning a Christmas cruise from Rome to Barcelona and a New Year’s cruise roundtrip from Barcelona. The Star Legend will also host attendees of the International Luxury Travel Market Cannes travel expo in December.
The future of Windstar’s initially planned Middle East sailings remains uncertain, with Star Legend still listed for several Middle East itineraries on the cruise line’s website for later this year and early next year. This expansion in the Mediterranean by Windstar Cruises reflects the company’s adaptive strategy and commitment to offering unique cruising experiences in response to passenger preferences and global events.