Windstar Unveils Star Explorer’s Winter Mediterranean Debut
Windstar Cruises has revealed new details about its upcoming ship, Star Explorer, which will debut on December 28, 2026. The 224-guest vessel is set to spend its inaugural season exploring the Mediterranean during the quieter winter months, offering culturally immersive itineraries that highlight both iconic cities and hidden gems.
Star Explorer’s itineraries will include overnight stays in major destinations such as Florence (via Livorno), Barcelona, and Nice, along with calls at lesser-traveled ports like Genoa, Catania, and Malaga. Designed for small port access, the ship will give travelers a unique opportunity to experience these locales without the summer crowds.
Jess Peterson, Windstar’s director of destination experience and itinerary planning, said the ship’s winter focus is a strategic way to provide a fresh look at familiar places. “Winter is when the Mediterranean slows down—and that’s when Windstar steps in,” Peterson said. “With Star Explorer, we’re offering guests a chance to see these legendary places with fresh eyes and fewer crowds.”
To celebrate the launch, Windstar is offering an early booking promotion for guests who reserve their voyage by July 31, 2025. The offer includes a complimentary all-inclusive package valued at over $1,300 per stateroom on a 7-day sailing. It covers Wi-Fi, unlimited select beer, wine, and cocktails, plus gratuities. Guests will also receive up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom.
Windstar is also introducing a “Pay Now, Save More” deal, providing an additional 5% discount on cruise fare for guests who pay in full at the time of booking, valid only when combined with the early booking offer.
The ship’s inaugural voyage will be a 9-night sailing along southern Spain, including an optional inland cruise tour. Other notable itineraries include the 7-night “Europe’s Winter Riviera” and an 8-night “Winter Italy & the Dalmatian Coast” cruise, featuring stops in Venice, Dubrovnik, and Zadar.
Star Explorer is one of two new ships joining Windstar’s fleet. Its sister ship, Star Seeker, will debut in December 2025 and operate Caribbean, Alaska, and Japan sailings following its christening in Miami.
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