Windstar Cruises shared plans for its latest vessel, Star Seeker, set to embark on voyages to Alaska and Japan upon joining the fleet in 2026.
After concluding operations in Alaska and Japan in 2023 with Star Breeze, which was then reassigned to Tahiti for year-round service, Windstar is eager to revisit these regions. Christopher Prelog, Windstar’s President, expressed excitement about the return to these sought-after destinations, emphasizing the demand from their guests for these itineraries.
The news was initially disclosed by Dianna Rom, Windstar’s Vice President of Sales, during a presentation at the Travel Leaders’ Edge conference, where she addressed an audience of 3,000 travel partners.
Star Seeker is scheduled to sail in Alaska from May through August, offering 7-, 10-, and 11-day cruises between Juneau or Seward, Alaska, and Vancouver, B.C. Guests will also have the option to enhance their experience with pre- and post-cruise land tours to Denali. Following her Alaskan journey, the ship will head to Japan in late August to commence the popular 10-day Grand Japan cruises, sailing between Tokyo and Osaka until November.
Windstar aims to have Star Seeker’s deployment details for Alaska and Japan available for booking online by early August 2024.
In Alaska, Windstar will employ expedition leaders to guide its Signature Expeditions, a hallmark of their previous Alaskan deployments. These small-group expeditions include hiking, kayaking, and skiff tours, allowing guests to explore remote areas like Misty Fjords under the guidance of expert leaders who provide enriching context. Onboard presentations will further illuminate Alaska’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
In a recent April announcement, Windstar introduced two new ships, Star Seeker and Star Explorer, to its fleet of boutique yachts. Each vessel will feature 112 suites, accommodating up to 224 guests, and will mirror the design of the current Star Class motor yachts. Star Seeker is slated for delivery in December 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December 2026.