Windstar Cruises unveils itineraries for new yacht Star Explorer

Windstar Cruises’ newest yacht Star Explorer will debut in the Mediterranean from December 28, 2026.

The 224-passenger vessel will offer European voyages year-round, with overnight stays in Florence (Livorno), Barcelona, Nice, Genoa, Catania and Malaga.

Season highlights will include Carnevale in Venice, Epiphany in Greece and Mediterranean winter markets.

Star Explorer’s inaugural voyage will be a nine-night Southern Spain Winter Escapes from Barcelona to Malaga, with the option to extend the experience inland with the Madrid & Southern Spain Cruise Tour, with prices leading in at £4,534 per person.

Meanwhile, the seven-night Europe’s Winter Riviera will include overnight stays in Florence (Livorno) and Barcelona, starting at £3,317.

The eight-night Winter Italy & the Dalmatian Coast will travel from Rome (Civitavecchia) to Venice with the chance to see Pompeii, Sicily and Dubrovnik, which costs from £3,773.

The 13-night Star Collector Voyages and optional Madrid Cruise Tour will offer an extended itinerary that combines multiple voyages with fewer repeated ports and perks including free daily laundry. 

Windstar Cruises has launched an early offer for bookings made before July 31, providing a complimentary all-inclusive package with Wi-Fi, gratuities and unlimited select, wine, beer and cocktails valued at £500 for seven-night voyages.

There will also be $200 onboard credit per stateroom which can be redeemed for shore excursions, spa treatments and other onboard amenities.

Those who in pay in full at the time of booking will receive an additional 5% discount on the cruise fare, including non-discountable fares.

Director of destination experience and itinerary planning Jess Peterson: “Winter is when the Mediterranean slows down, and that’s when Windstar steps in.

“With Star Explorer, we’re offering guests a chance to see these iconic places with fresh eyes and fewer crowds, all in the comfort of our newest yacht.”