The Xanterra-owned, ultra-premium travel brand Windstar Cruises now has 2 of its 6 superyachts deployed in French Polynesia, making it the region's biggest "small ship" cruise line.
Windstar restarted cruising in French Polynesia and the Tahiti Islands in July with vaccinated passengers and crew members aboard the line’s 148-passenger Wind Spirit yacht, specifically designed for the region. Windstar Cruises has established roots in Tahiti and among the local community while sailing in the region for 4 decades.
Wind Spirit sails year-round from Tahiti, while the 312-passenger Star Breeze yacht commenced sailings from Papeete on October 17, 2021, through the end of March 2022.
The company’s 3 "Star Plus Class" ships (Star Breeze, Star Legend, Star Pride) have been undergoing major drydock renovations and Star Breeze was the first to restart in June 2021. The boat has 2 new dining options (an outdoor barbecue concept featuring grilling guru Steven Raichlen and a Spanish small plates restaurant from Anthony Sasso, who is one of the youngest chefs recognized by the Michelin Guide), a spa & fitness center, a stylish infinity pool, more outdoor deck space, and dining areas.
Windstar offers a complimentary private event on the Tahiti sailings: an exclusive beach party with a locally-sourced feast on a Bora Bora tiny motus, as well as a kinetic fire-dancing performance. This is available on all voyages on both yachts. An aft Watersports Platform lowers to allow swimming. Guests benefit from free access to use watersports activities like floating mats, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, waterskiing, tubing.