Windstar Cruises has announced a significant expansion of its operations in French Polynesia, commencing in March 2027. The newly refurbished sailing yacht Wind Star will join the all-suite Star Breeze in operating year-round in the region, marking the cruise line's most extensive South Pacific deployment to date.
The Wind Star, a classic 4-masted sailing yacht accommodating 148 guests, will offer the 7-night "Dreams of Tahiti" itinerary with weekly Monday departures from Papeete. This itinerary includes visits to Raiatea, an island considered the ancestral homeland of the Māori people, a destination not featured on competing 7-day itineraries.
The Star Breeze, Windstar's 312-guest all-suite yacht, will focus on longer voyages to more remote destinations such as the Tuamotus, Marquesas, Fiji, and the Cook Islands. These can be combined into "Star Collector Voyages" of up to 21 days, offering deeper cultural immersion and extended South Pacific exploration.
Windstar's expansion in French Polynesia aims to provide guests with more departure dates and a wider variety of itineraries than ever before. The cruise line offers the most 7-day departures of any cruise line in Tahiti, with longer 10-day itineraries to the Tuamotus and 14-day voyages to the remote Marquesas.
For 2027 voyages, Windstar has introduced an "Early Goodbye" disembarkation, allowing ships to arrive in Papeete at 8:00 p.m. the day prior to departure day. This schedule enables guests to connect with same-evening flights to Los Angeles, maximizing time in paradise for those with tight schedules.
Additionally, Windstar has simplified cruise + hotel packages, making it easier for guests to add a stay in an overwater bungalow, with flexible flight options available through Windstar or independently. The cruise line has also introduced new AquaBanas at the yacht's marina platform—private floating lounges with sunshades, tables, and chairs for a resort-like experience at sea.
Windstar's exclusive Destination Discovery Event, "Polynesian Feast + Fire," invites guests to a private motu for an evening of Tahitian fire dancing, live music, and island cuisine under the stars. Onboard, a cultural ambassador teaches ukulele, flower crown and lei-making, how to tie a pareo, and Tahitian language and traditions. Cooking demonstrations include local favorites like poisson cru with coconut milk, and local legends share the sacred history of Polynesian tattooing.
Shore excursions are guided by locals who invite guests to uncover the islands' secrets: snorkel through coral gardens on a gentle drift, discover how Tahitian vanilla is cultivated, or wade into turquoise lagoons to find a pearl of your own. The yachts' marina platforms provide direct access to swim from the yacht and enjoy complimentary water sports activities like kayaking and paddleboarding in iconic locations like Bora Bora and Moorea.