Windstar Cruise Line

If you're hesitating going on a cruise because you can't stand the thought of sailing on a huge vessel with over a couple thousand other people, you might want to look into smaller cruise ships, such as Windstar Cruises.

The yacht-like sailing ships of Windstar cruises are truly different from ordinary cruise lines. Windstar Cruise Lines consist of three intimate-sized motor sailing yachts, and are casual, comfortable, and luxurious all at the same time. Being motorized, Windstar ships don't depend on wind alone to sail. But, according to Fodor's, "if you're fortunate and conditions are perfect, as they sometimes are, the complete silence of pure sailing is heavenly."

But, do passengers enjoy some of the same amenities which passengers of larger ships enjoy? Very much so. Not only do all staterooms and suites offer ocean views, but they also include sitting areas, flatscreen TVs, DVDs, CD players, safes, mini-bar/refrigerators, and international direct-dial phones. They bathrooms are stocked with luxurious toiletries, hair dryers, plush terry clothe robes, and an abundance of closet space.

In addition, Windstar Cruises are noted for their spas, such as the 'Wind Spa' aboard the 308-passenger Wind Surf, and their fine selection of wines. One caveat: Windstar Cruises are adult in orientation, so children, especially infants and toddlers, are not encouraged onboard.

Windstar Cruises Offers Unique Vacations Aboard Motor Sail Yachts

Author: Roy Witman

© 2007, All Rights Reserved

When the frantic, fast-paced flurry of most cruise vacations isn't appealing to you, there is an exceptional alternative: Windstar Cruises.

Distinctive in every way, the most notable difference between Windstar and other cruise ships is the ships themselves. Not your standard luxury liner, Windstar voyages are aboard three stunning, intimate-sized motor sail yachts. With sails billowing in the breeze, you can head out to the far reaches of the world to many of the most sought-after destinations known to man.

Classic in every detail, Windstar cruises offer popular ports of call, luxurious amenities, access to everything onboard and a wide array of choices in dining and other options. Casinos, gourmet restaurants, spas and well-equipped fitness centers are among some of the appointments you'll find, depending on which ship you choose. With a casually elegant atmosphere, Windstar Cruises also delivers some pleasantly unexpected alternatives as well.

Regardless of which ship you sail (Wind Star, Wind Sail or Wind Surf), these intimate-class vessels accommodate no more than 312 passengers. As you might expect, that equates to a level of personalized service unlike any other. From spa treatments to room stewards to dining staff, you'll find your every whim accommodated with lightening speed. That's absolute freedom!

In addition, your Windstar cruise also adheres to an open bridge policy. Stop by and introduce yourself to the captain and his crew, tour the bridge and discover the inner workings of a cruise ship. When you're finished, make your way to the rear of the ship (aft) for skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling and other water sports directly from the water platform of the vessel. (Did I mention they are complimentary?)

Destinations

But the ships themselves are only part of the cruise experience. Not to worry! The destinations available from Windstar offer a grand selection of classic favorites that bear visiting again and again.

St. Thomas and Barbados are frequent stops on Windstar voyages to the Caribbean. Ports in Rome, Athens, Barcelona and Nice are all called upon during weeklong European tours. Costa Rica offers a tropical playground virtually year round and is available to you at any time you choose. Or, for a regal cruise in the tradition of the majestic days of ocean travel, book a transatlantic crossing - two glorious weeks at sea. You'll quickly discover why Windstar gets an amazing 60% repeat booking rate.

Atmosphere

Intimate and casually elegant, all the ships in the Windstar fleet give you an entirely new cruise experience. A far cry from the hustle and bustle of other overcrowded ships, Windstar's philosophy is to make you right at home. Certainly exciting, always fun, these motor sail ships bring a more dignified air to cruising. It's as if you're sailing on your own private yacht with 300 friends.

Dining

As you might expect, the cuisine onboard Winstar vessels is second to none. With a restaurant and a veranda on each ship, you have a choice as to when and where to dine. Gourmet meals prepared to order by expert chefs are served daily for your enjoyment.

Generally catering to adults, Windstar proclaims, these adventures are "180 Degrees From Ordinary." You'll agree. With teak decking, granite-topped surfaces and elegant sails, Windstar gives every appearance of a world-class cruise ship.

If you're a cruise enthusiast who is looking for a new direction for your next vacation, Windstar might have just what you're looking for.

About the author:
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including European cruises and Windstar cruises.

Synonyms:  Indstar, iwndstar, wndstar, wnidstar, widstar, widnstar, winstar, winsdtar, windtar, windtsar, windsar, windsatr, windstr, windstra, and windsta are typos for "Windstar."  Cruses, cruies, crusises, crusies, curises, cuise, crusis, cruces, crise, cruis, cruse, and cruize  are typos for "cruise" or "cruises."