The yacht that started it all has a fresh new look. When Windstar Cruises 148-guest Wind Star debuted 40 years ago, she helped pioneer a new kind of cruising, with automated sails, an intimate scale, and an experience that felt more like a private yacht than a traditional cruise.
Now, Windstar has completed a full transformation of the original sailing yacht, as part of the brand’s Setting Sails refurbishment project. Wind Star becomes the first in the Wind Class fleet to complete both phases of the refurbishment program already introduced across her sister yachts.
“This transformation is about honoring where we started while sailing confidently into what’s next,” said Stijn Creupelandt, chief operating officer of Windstar Cruises. “As our original sailing yacht, Wind Star has always held a special place in our fleet. With these significant updates, we’ve honored what guests love most while elevating every aspect of the experience. Now, she’s ready to deliver that experience in entirely new ways, in some of the world’s most iconic destinations.”
The completion of Phase 2 marks the final stage of a comprehensive redesign of Wind Star, to modernize the look and refine the onboard experience, dining and connectivity.At the heart of the update is a reimagining of the yacht’s dining venues. Amphora, the signature restaurant, has been fully redesigned with new flooring, wall finishes, and ceiling treatments, along with custom banquette seating and updated furnishings. At Veranda, a refreshed interior is paired with a completely reimagined buffet layout to create a more seamless and relaxed dining experience.
Stateroom updates elevate comfort with new upholstered headboards, integrated lighting, and convenient bedside charging, building on Phase 1 enhancements, such as upgraded technology, Starlink connectivity, new TVs with on-demand content, and a redesigned Owner’s Suite.
Earlier upgrades also transformed the yacht’s most visible spaces, including the lobby, Compass Rose Lounge, Yacht Club Café, and pool deck, along with a fully refreshed World Spa by Windstar and an upgraded fitness center. Across the yacht, finishing touches such as commissioned artwork created in partnership with Miami-based Fountainhead Art to enhanced lighting, state-of-the-art audio systems, new teak decking, and refined design details. These elements bring the transformation together, reinforcing Windstar’s signature “home at sea” feel.
The 342-guest Wind Surf is scheduled to complete Phase 2 in December 2026, followed by Wind Spirit in March 2027, ensuring the entire sailing fleet reflects the brand’s modern yacht aesthetic while preserving its timeless character.
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