Windstar Cruises is expanding its fleet with two all-suite motor yachts, Star Seeker and Star Explorer. The first of the two ships, Star Seeker is currently being constructed in the WestSEA shipyard in Portugal and due to be delivered in December, 2025. Star Explorer will join in December, 2026.
Each ship has 112 suites, featuring full private verandas and infinity windows, ensuring unparalleled views for every guest onboard. Additionally, two new Owner’s Suites with wrap-around balconies are being added to the aft of the ship, perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner. With a capacity for 224 guests and ratio of one staff to every two guests, the ships are designed to maintain an intimate atmosphere, Windstar says.
The Star Seeker was originally ordered by Mystic Cruise Holdings and slated for its Atlas Ocean Voyages brand. The 2019-built Star Explorer is currently operating for Quark Expeditions as the World Explorer on a charter from Mystic.
Both ships have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations. The ships are equipped with the latest safety, propulsion, and navigation technology, including pump jet thrusters and forward-facing Sonar. To minimize their environmental footprint and uphold the brand’s commitment to sustainability, the ships have tier III Nox-rated Rolls Royce engines and can connect to shore power minimizing port emissions. In addition, the ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet all global standards.
Guests will enjoy access to several newly added Windstar guest favorites, including the brand’s famous watersports platforms that will feature new staircase access. Other signature features are the cozy Yacht Club café and lounge, a two-story spa and fitness facility, an intimate forward whirlpool on the bow, and a spacious open deck for sunbathing and deck barbeques.
The expansion also allows Windstar to return one of its classic Wind-Class ships, Wind Star, to Tahiti, where it will join Star Breeze in 2027, adding more capacity to meet the growing demand for French Polynesian sailings. With more than 36 years’ experience operating cruises in French Polynesia and a longtime guest favorite, travelers will now have a choice between sailing among the islands on a Wind- or Star-Class ship.
“Our goal is to ensure these ships are unmistakably Windstar, and a significant amount of effort has gone into achieving this,” says Windstar Cruises’ President Christopher Prelog. “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.”
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