Windstar Cruises has scheduled the debut of its newest yacht, Star Explorer/now World Explorer, for December 28, 2026, marking Windstar's fourth winter season in the Mediterranean.
The 224-passenger mega-yacht will enhance the Star Class fleet and usher in a refined era of winter cruising, offering cultural immersion, off-season advantages, and access to lesser-visited ports free from the embrace of summer crowds.
The ship's initial local season has been crafted for discovery. Star Explorer will call overnight at major cultural centers—Florence (via Livorno), Barcelona, and Nice—while also visiting quieter harbors such as Genoa, Catania, and Málaga.
Itineraries will coincide with seasonal events including Carnevale in Venice, Epiphany celebrations in Greece, and the region’s winter markets.
Jess Peterson, Windstar’s director of destination experience and itinerary planning, has explained that the slower pace of the Mediterranean in winter is when the line truly makes its presence felt, allowing passengers to rediscover familiar locales with a fresh perspective and minimal crowds, while enjoying the comforts aboard their latest yacht.
Several voyage options will be available. These include the inaugural Southern Spain Winter Escapes—a 9-night roundtrip from Barcelona that explores Andalusian culture and cuisine—Europe’s Winter Riviera, a 7-night itinerary blending Florence, Genoa, and Barcelona, and an 8-night Winter Italy & Dalmatian Coast voyage featuring Venice, Pompeii, and Dubrovnik. Also offered will be Star Collector itineraries that combine multiple segments for extended winter adventures.
On board, the yacht will offer 112 suites, among them two Horizon Owner’s Suites with sweeping balconies. Guests will find familiar venues such as the Yacht Club Café and the Marina deck, while personalized service will match the yacht-style tradition of Windstar’s fleet.
An Early Booking Offer extends through July 31, 2025. Travelers who secure staterooms will receive an all-inclusive package—covering Wi‑Fi, select beverages, and gratuities worth more than US$1,300 per cabin on a 7-day cruise—as well as up to US$200 in onboard credit. An additional 5% discount will be applied to those who complete full payment upon booking.
The arrival of Star Explorer will elevate Windstar’s small‑ship winter presence in Europe. Designed for intimate exploration and seasonal depth, her voyage reflects the line’s commitment to offering off‑peak access to the Mediterranean’s cultural and coastal secrets under the banner of personalized yacht-style cruising.