We’ve all seen them in the harbors of the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. Sleek perfectly tended private yachts with uniformed crew who know just how guests would like their relaxing days to unfold.
Windstar Cruises aims for that kind of luxury on Star Legend, one of a family of what they call Star Plus Class megayachts.
The individual attention begins from the moment we arrive at the pier. Crew members are waiting and greet us like we’re returning owners. Uniformed staff take care of all the bags and with only a few minutes’ sidetrack for a covid test, we’re on board the newly stretched Star Legend, where no masks are required because all guests must be fully vaccinated.
Windstar Cruises’ trio of motor yachts have always been intimate vessels in a world where new cruise ships typically carry 10 times as many guests. Even after a major rebuilding that that literally cut the ship in two and added an extensive new mid section, the maximum passenger count stands at only 312. Meanwhile, the crew has been expanded to 190.
Our bags are already delivered by the time we reach our suite, one of 50 added in the recent $87-million renovation. The 277-square foot suite features a spacious living room furnished with two arm chairs and sofa that’s separated from the bed area by a curtained divider. There’s a walk-in closet with plenty of hanging, drawer and shelf space to settle in for our two-week cruise in the Mediterranean.
Storage space is more limited but adequate in the bathroom, which has double sinks and a large shower enclosure. The tightest space in the new suites is the narrow standing-room-only balcony which is similar to what you’d find on a river ship.
(If you’re looking to really spread out, the stretched Star Legend and fleet mates Star Pride and Star Breeze now feature pairs of Owner’s Suites, which can be combined to create up to a three-bedroom, two-balcony suite with more than 1,300 square feet.)
What you won’t see but can feel is an upgrade to the ventilation system that has been added to all Windstar ships as part of the new Beyond Ordinary Care program. On top of providing a higher refresh rate of interior air, the system includes hospital grade high-efficiency particulate (HEPA) filters along with an ultraviolet-C germicidal air purification process.
New more fuel efficient and eco-friendly engines provide a smooth sail as we head out of Lisbon and join a sail-away party on deck. A notable addition in the renovations is an infinity pool, with one end made of glass and water spills over a series of waterfalls. Above it is a large whirlpool. There are two open decks of lounge chairs with ample choices of sun and shade for relaxing. Nearby is an enlarged Fitness and Motion Studios spa zone where complimentary fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates are offered daily.
Let’s toast departure with a cocktail. Windstar offers an all-inclusive amenities package that includes unlimited beer, wine and cocktails but also unlimited wi-fi (whose speed can often leave a lot to be desired) as well as crew gratuities. The price is $79 per guest per cruise day if purchased in advance or $89 a day if purchased on board . But it’s worth investigating, as if you purchase drinks separately, the price of cocktails can be $12 each and wines are $8 or more a glass.
The choice of wines and premium liquors is satisfyingly broad, but if you want to indulge in a vintage wine, French Champagne or cognac, there’s a premium list. If you want to opt for just the drinks, there are packages at $49 or $59 on offer but be aware that wi-fi by the day costs $35 by itself and crew gratuities are recommended at $14.50 a day per guest. Windstar claims opting for the package can save as much as $480 per couple on a seven-night cruise.
Time to think about dinner, and the stretch has created a new choice of dining options we’ll be exploring. The party is just beginning. Stay tuned for more.
Wallace Immen is Executive Editor of The Cruisington Times
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