Windstar Cruises, which
recently renovated its three masted cruise ships, is adding to its fleet. The
first of three new “power yachts” (no sails) is the Star Pride, which carries 212 guests and makes each one feel that
they are on their own private yacht. Two more power yachts, Star Breeze and Star Legend, will join the fleet in May 2015. The small ships
maintain the Windstar tradition of visiting secluded coves and other places
that large ships can’t go.
Star Pride is
an all-suite ship, and every suite has ocean views. Some have picture windows, some
have French-style balconies, and some have private verandas. Each elegant suite
also features Internet access, fresh flowers and fruit, and a private bath with
granite countertops and a full-sized tub.
Like the accommodations, the
dining choices are sumptuous. Amphora, the main restaurant, serves Continental
cuisine in a relaxed, open-seating venue. Veranda combines buffet-style service
with made-to-order grilled items during the day; at night, it transforms into
Candles Grill, with steaks and table service under the stars.
Star Pride’s
public spaces are designed with the same casual elegance as its suites. These
include the Yacht Club, top-deck observation area with a coffee bar and a
comfortable lounge. Compass Rose is a place to socialize, with live music every
evening. The Star Bar offers casual drinks by day and a view of the stars by
night.
Star Pride
and its sister ships will maintain some beloved Windstar traditions, including
the Open Bridge experience: guests are invited to come to the bridge while the
yacht is at sea to talk with the officers and view the navigational chart. The
new ships will also be equipped with Windstar’s Watersports Platform, which
gives guests the opportunity to swim and enjoy other watersports right from the
ship.
Star Pride was
christened on May 5, 2014, in Barcelona, Spain, then set sail for Rome on a
six-day inaugural voyage. Then it began sailing a special collection of 7-day
and 9-day voyages, including itineraries in the Black Sea and the Aegean Sea. Star Pride is also set to venture to ports
in Arabia, India and Southeast Asia.
To find out more about where
Windstar’s new Star Class power yachts can take you, talk with Anita, your
Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
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