Windstar Cruises is poised for “remarkable growth” with the addition of two new-build ships.
The luxury small ship line is expanding its six-strong fleet with the addition of two all-suite yachts.
The first of the pair of 224-passenger ships, Star Seeker, is under construction at the WestSEA shipyard in Portugal and is due to be delivered in December 2025, followed by Star Explorer a year later.
The 112-suite vessels will both have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations. Two owner’s suites at the aft of each ship will feature wrap-around balconies.
They will have new generation Rolls-Royce engines, which can connect to shore power to reduce port emissions, as well as advanced wastewater treatment systems to minimise their environmental footprint.
The expansion will allow Windstar to bring back four-mast sailing ship Wind Star, to Tahiti, where it will join Star Breeze in 2027, adding more capacity to meet growing demand for French Polynesian sailings.
Full itineraries and booking details for Star Seeker are expected announced in late June, according to the line.
Andrew Todd, chief executive of parent company Xanterra Travel Collection, said: “As part of our company’s expanding portfolio, Windstar Cruises is poised for remarkable growth and an exciting future ahead.
“We’re excited about the possibilities of where Windstar will sail and the opportunities it brings our officers, crew and staff, and our guests.”
Windstar president Christopher Prelog said: “Our goal was to ensure these ships are unmistakably Windstar, and a significant amount of effort has gone into achieving this.
“We are thrilled for this expansion, building on the success of our game-changing Star Class in small-ship cruising with guests and travel partners, while offering new experiences.
“This growth reflects the dedication of our incredible crew and team, allowing us to broaden our destination portfolio and even bring one of our Wind Class sail ships back to Tahiti.”