star breeze yacht

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• Windstar Cruises

Star Breeze

Former name: seabourn spirit.

Cruise line Windstar Cruises

• Papeete (Tahiti Island French Polynesia)

Star Breeze current position

Star Breeze current location is at South Pacific Ocean (coordinates -17.49100 S / -149.82150 W) cruising en route to PF MOOREA. The AIS position was reported 40 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Star Breeze

Star Breeze current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Dreams of Tahiti . Prices start from USD 3099 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 21 Mar, 2024 and ends on 28 Mar, 2024 .

Specifications of Star Breeze

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Star Breeze Itineraries

Star breeze review, review of star breeze.

The 1989-built (as "Seabourn Spirit") cruise ship Star Breeze is the second of all three identical superyachts in the Windstar fleet - together with Star Pride (Seabourn Pride) and Star Legend (Seabourn Legend) .

The vessel (IMO number 8807997) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311083000) and registered in Nassau .

History - construction and ownership

Windstar Cruises is a luxury travel brand operating a fleet of smaller-sized ships (mega-yachts) with capacity up to 340 passengers. The company call at 150 ports throughout the Caribbean, Central America, South Pacific, Asia, Europe. Currently, Windstar is a subsidiary of Xanterra Parks and Resorts (USA's largest national and state park concession management company).

The 340-passenger ship Star Breeze is a German-built luxury liner inaugurated in 1989 and drydock stretched /enlarged in 2020. In 2005, the 212-passenger vessel (back then named "Seabourn Spirit") was rated by Conde Nast "best small cruise ship". In April 2015, the liner left Seabourn's fleet and in May joined Windstar's fleet as "Star Breeze". The ship was built at Schichau Seebeckwerft (shipyard in Bremerhaven Germany ) and christened (as Seabourn Spirit) by Aagot Brynestad - the mother of Seabourn 's founder Atle Brynestad.

In 2020, the 134-m long Star Breeze was enlarged (to the current 159 m LOA length) by cutting in two and inserting a 26-m long prebuilt midship section. The project was conducted at Fincantieri's shipyard in Port Palermo Sicily .

Decks and Cabins

Star Breeze staterooms (156 total, in 13 grades) are all outside and in suite categories - the lowest being Porthole Suite (10 cabins). All cabins are with modern amenities including fully-stocked minibars, Wi-Fi Internet, smart HDTVs (infotainment system), spacious wardrobe with electronic safe box, phone (direct dial), large bathroom (double-sink vanity, bathtub, shower, WC-toilet, L'Occitane bath products), premium bedding sets (top-quality pillows and linens), fresh fruits and flowers.

The largest accommodations are the 3-Bedroom Grand Owners Suites (1375 ft2 / 128 m2 with included outdoor terrace).

The boat has 8 decks , of which 6 are passenger-accessible and 4 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Star Breeze guests may choose from various inclusive dining options - AmphorA Restaurant, Yacht Club, Sky Bar & Grill. Windstar travellers usually like to dress up. There are 2 formal nights on weeklong cruises and 3 on 14-day voyages. On these nights, a lot of the men wear tuxedos. Women wear luxury cocktail dresses or ball gowns. Other nights are casually stylish (jacket for men, but tie optional; nice outfit for women), or casual (no jacket for men; sundress or slacks for women). For those who do not like formal nights, the Veranda Cafe offers a casually stylish alternative.

Follows the complete list of Star Breeze restaurants and food bars.

• AmphorA Restaurant (ship's main dining room, open-seating, dinner-only between 7-9 pm; offers 5-course gourmet dinner menu which is changed daily; along with onboard-made bread, in all ports of call the executive chef goes to the local markets to shop for fresh ingredients)
• Candles Cafe and Candles Veranda (a smaller "dining room" which offers buffet-style breakfast and lunch, as well as a la carte menu through the wait staff; its indoor area is called "Candles Cafe" and features floor-ceiling panoramic windows; the outdoor seating area is called "Veranda" - in the evenings, it transforms into "Candles Grill" al-fresco steakhouse)
• Star Bar (serves the top deck open-air-area).
• Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso (deck 6 aft-portside-located specialty restaurant with an Iberian food menu)
• Star Grill by Steven Raichlen (deck 8 midship-located alfresco dining venue serving complimentary BBQ food)

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

While Star Breeze offers the signature Windstar experiences (as the famous deck barbecue), she also promotes the company's product development initiative - intimate access to call ports, themed sailings and active interaction with villagers. Activities onboard are very limited and range from food market purchases to performances by local musicians. Public areas include the casino, library, computer center, WindSpa, fitness center, pool and three whirlpool tubs.

Various bars and lounges, scaled for sociability, invite travelers to get to know one other. The complimentary fine wines and spirits service contributes to the club-like atmosphere inside and on the open decks, where passengers can find plenty of cozy seating in the sun or shade. Windstar's attentive service includes full bar service, mineral water spritzes fresh fruit sherbets and smoothies, frozen towels and sun lotion. A pair of whirlpool spas grace sun deck, and the third one is forward on Deck 5. In warm water cruise destinations on certain days, the captain anchors off a stretch of beach and deploys the ship's watersports fold-out Marina, creating a private island resort for water-skiing, sailing, swimming or snorkeling right from the ship.

Follows the complete list of Star Breeze lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens and adults.

• The Marina (retractable watersports platform for water skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, kayaking; the ship provides water rafts, wakeboards, paddleboards and a water trampoline island; the steel cage forms a swimming pool in the sea)
• A Whirlpool (with sunbathing area and lounge chairs)
• Card Room (bridge and board games); Library; Screening Room
• Computer Center (discount Internet packages and rates per minute)
• Lounge (ship's theatre/main show lounge for live evening entertainment)
• The Boutique Shop (now Signature Shop) sells duty-free luxury fashion clothing and accessories
• The Casino (gaming lounge aft on deck 6, with blackjack/roulette gambling tables, slot machines) was replaced with the Cuadro 44 restaurant.
• Compass Rose (ship's main bar lounge with grand piano)
• The Wellness Centre (WindSpa, Beauty Salon, Gym). WindSpa (operated by Steiner) has treatment rooms (for massages), Saunas, Steam Rooms.
• The Fitness Center (with floor-ceiling windows; has free weights, treadmills, elliptical machines; offers complimentary exercise classes); Courtyard
• Pool Area (with one rectangular swimming pool, two whirlpools on platforms and a 3rd whirlpool at the ship's bow, sunbathing and shaded areas)
• The Yacht Club (Constellation Lounge with floor-ceiling windows for 270-degree views)
• The Sun Deck (with padded luxury sun loungers and deckchairs).

Itineraries

Star Breeze itinerary program is based on luxury Mediterranean cruises with departures from France, Italy, Spain, Greece and Turkey) and Caribbean voyages with Panama Canal transits leaving from Colon and Puerto Caldera. The ship also offers Transatlantic repositioning crossings.

On each cruise, at one call port there is one free excursion (shoreside activity) provided complimentary to all passengers. These events are usually a highlight of the voyage and include such land trips as a visit to a private villa in Malta, a glass-roofed canal boat ride in Amsterdam and an outdoor folkloric dance implementation in Nafplion Greece .

Following the drydock stretching in 2019-2020, the bigger Star Breeze was scheduled to restart operations with 7-day Caribbean roundtrip itineraries. Starting on January 2, 2021, out of homeport San Juan Puerto Rico the ship's itineraries visit the Caribbean islands:

• 7-day itinerary to Grenada (St George's), St Vincent (Bequia), St Lucia (Pigeon Island), Guadeloupe (Iles des Saintes) and St Maarten (Philipsburg)
• 7-day itinerary to St Thomas USVI (Charlotte Amalie), St Barthelemy (Gustavia), Montserrat (Little Bay), St Maarten (Philipsburg), Jost van Dyke BVI (Great Harbour) and Virgin Gorda BVI (Spanish Town).
• B2Bs (back-to-back cruises) combine both 7-day roundtrips into a 14-day voyage roundtrip from San Juan.

Star Breeze schedule 2021 (January through November) initially included voyages in Australia New Zealand (Sydney NSW-Auckland NZ), Asia (Japan's Tokyo and Kobe, China's Hong Kong) and Alaska (Vancouver-Seward).

Following the Coronavirus crisis 2020-21, Windstar restarted operations with Star Breeze on June 19, 2021. The 7-night Caribbean itinerary (roundtrip from Philipsburg, St Maarten) visited Anguilla Island (UK), BVI (Jost Van Dyke Island, Tortola Island, Norman Island, Virgin Gorda Island) and St Barthelemy Island. The crew was vaccinated and all passengers were required to provide COVID vaccination proof. Also on June 19th restarted operations Wind Star (7-night Mediterranean-Greek Islands itinerary roundtrip from Piraeus-Athens).

Star Breeze 2022 Asian program was canceled in May (2022) due to "uncertainty regarding ports reopening in the region" (Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines). The cancellations affected 7x itineraries, including a Transpacific repositioning crossing (Alaska to Japan), 2x "Grand Japan", 1x "Japan Island Hopping", 1x "Windstar Crew Hometowns: Philippines and Indonesia", 1x "Hidden Indonesia and the Great Barrier Reef", 1x "Edge of the Outback". Instead in Asia, Star Breeze was deployed in Alaska ("Alaskan Splendors" itinerary) during summer, followed by a Transpacific crossing (San Diego to Papeete Tahiti) and 5x French Polynesia voyages (joining there Wind Spirit ) out of Papeete .

Following the 11-day relocation voyage from Tahiti to Sydney NSW Australia (November 11-22, 2022) Star Breeze had scheduled a charter cruise. The themed "Tasman Sea Treasures: New Zealand Fjords and South Australia" itinerary (departure December 4th, out of Sydney) was Windstar's Maiden Voyage in the region.

Star Breeze - user reviews and comments

Photos of star breeze.

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Other Windstar Cruises cruise ships

• Star Legend
• Wind Spirit

Star Breeze Wiki

Star Breeze was originally built for Seabourn as "Seabourn Spirit". The liner was christened In November 1989 by godmother Shirley Temple Black (1928-2014, US actress, singer, dancer). In 2001, Seabourn Spirit changed its flag-state from Norway to the Bahamas. In 2005, the vessel was ranked 1st in Conde Nast's "best small cruise ship" ranking chart. The vessel was purchased by Windstar in February 2013 and was leased by Seabourn until handed to Windstar in May 2015.

Star Breeze's christening ceremony was on May 6, 2015, held pier-side in Nice France, Ship's godmother is Wendy Perrin (independent vacation travel expert, former Conde Nast Traveler employee). The naming ceremony was attended by Hans Birkholz (Windstar's CEO) and around 250 VIP guests.

The ship's namesake is the Carnival Cruise Line -operated liner Carnival Breeze (2012-built).

During Star Breeze's drydock 2018 (April, in Lisbon Portugal ) was installed Transas A-Suite (e-navigation system) and Navi-Radar 4000 (by DP Marine) with incorporated JRC sensors. The system consists of 2 radars (X-band and S-band), Dual ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information) system, K-Nav ECDIS (route planning station (by Kongsberg Maritime) and PilotStar NX (autopilot by Anschutz). Also were modified all consoles and the ship's antenna.

Star Breeze was last drydock-refurbished in 2023 (February 27 thru March 21) in Singapore . The drydocking was routine - for regular maintenance and classification works, technical overhaul, minor repairs, hull cleaning/painting.

WINDSTAR cruise ship reconstructions 2019-2020-2021 drydock refurbishments review

On November 15, 2018, Windstar Cruises announced the company's "Star Plus Initiative" - drydock refit and refurbishment program budgeted USD 250 million. The project was partially financed through Export Credit facility guaranteed by SACE Italy (financial and insurance products and services). The "Star Plus" drydocking project includes enlarging (stretching) and engine upgrades for the fleet's three Star-Class vessels (in brackets - completion dates) - Star Breeze (February 20, 2020), Star Legend (July 2, 2020) and Star Pride (November 20, 2020).

Windstar's "Star Plus" project increased the fleet's capacity by 24%. The project (completed in 2021 October) resulted in bigger capacity (254 to 320 passengers, 140 to 190 crew), increased GT tonnage/volume (9975 to 12995 tons), increased length (134 to 159 m), more staterooms (106 to 156), adding new venues and public spaces, machinery upgrades (new Wartsila marine diesel engines). The project was scheduled for the period October 2019 through November 2020, at Fincantieri's shipyards in Palermo (Sicily Island, Italy) and Trieste (Italy) .

The drydock lengthening included cutting each vessel in two and installing a new (prefabricated) midship section with length 25 m (83 ft). The vessel's LOA length was increased from 134 m (439 ft) to 159 m (522). The midship section has an additional elevator. These sections were built (pre-fabricated and assembled) in Trieste, then barged to Palermo to be inserted into the vessels.

Following the drydocks, each ship now has 2 new dining venues (Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, Star Grill by Steven Raichlen), new / expanded retail shopping space (Signature Shop), enlarged Gym (Fitness Center with Motion Studio for classes), expanded wellness complex (WindSpa by Steiner), new bar lounge (deck 5), larger sundeck and swimming pool (deck 7), new tender loading area (deck 3 midship), two new tender boats (90-seat each), new whirlpool and enlarged swimming pool (on deck 8), expanded and upgraded staff-crew areas and crew cabins. The two new dining venues are a specialty restaurant (Cuadro 44, aft-portside on deck 6, the former Casino area) and a casual outdoor BBQ restaurant (Star Grill, adjacent to Star Bar on deck 8).

The powerplants were upgraded from 4x Bergen diesel engines (model B33:45, combined power output 7,3 MW) to 4x Wartsila engines (model Wartsila 46F, combined output 5 MW) running on the cleaner ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel) fuel.

Each boat received 50 new cabins (to a total of 156), which (based on the total investment) means shipbuilding cost per berth USD 267,000. Among the new cabins are two Midship Owner Suites and two enlarged Forward Grand Owner Suites - all located on Deck 6. All existing staterooms will be completely refurbished, including bathrooms, balconies, sliding doors, furniture, equipment. The new public spaces and staterooms were designed by the NYC -based "The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry".

Th e vessel's cutting started in October 2019. The new engines were installed in February 2020. Following the stretching, Star Breeze started sea trials on October 4, 2020, out of Palermo .

Review: Star Breeze

Reviewed by Fran Golden

What is the line? Windstar Cruises

Name of ship? Star Breeze

Number of passengers? 312 passengers

Itinerary? Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway from St. Maarten

What I love about this 312-passenger yacht is you can totally be yourself in a relaxed atmosphere with good food, nice suites and fun-loving companions  – plus, if you want, you can jump right off the marina into the sea when the ship is at anchor.

The big picture

Windstar Cruises is known for its low-key yet upscale yachting-style of cruising on three sailing ships and three motor yachts. Onboard are mostly adult couples looking for an upscale, yet relaxed experience. The ships visit off-the-beaten path ports of call where you may anchor or dock next to superyachts – they try to stay away from the big cruise ship crowds. You can borrow kayaks and paddleboards from the drop-down marina or spend lazy hours on deck admiring the sea. The line’s foodie creds are hard to beat: It’s the official cruise line of The James Beard Foundation. Dinner is the main event at night. For entertainment, you may catch a singer-piano player duo or dance to the band on deck. Two signature happenings add to the fun on warm weather itineraries: There’s a BBQ on a beach, plus a deck party where, after you gorge on grilled steaks, lobster and paella, you can join your fellow passengers and crew in doing the moves to “YMCA” and joining a snaking conga line. 

The ship in general

The cruise line embarked on an usual project just before the pandemic. The line’s three, 30-year-old motor yachts were cut in half, so that a whole new 84-foot mid-section. Able to carry 100 more passengers the 312-passenger Star Breeze was the first to re-debut in 2021, with new suites, new dining options – including a fabulous tapas restaurant – more open deck space, a glass-fronted pool large enough for six people to chat while sipping cocktails, a larger oceanview gym with a Motion Studio for yoga classes, an expanded spa with a relaxation area, and more energy efficient engines (sister ships Star Legend and Star Pride followed with their own redos). Already great features that had been added earlier include the Yacht Club, an observation room with big windows and coffee bar, the perfect place to curl up with a latte and views.

Who is onboard?

Passengers are mostly active adult couples looking for a romantic interlude in the relaxed atmosphere of a yacht. Some guests have sailed their own boats; few would be caught dead on a big ship.

Everyone on Star Breeze stays in a good-sized suite. My 277-square-foot Star Balcony Suite, located in the new block, was done up in sophisticated contemporary decor in sea tones and came with a sliding glass door leading to a French balcony – meaning you can take one step out to feel the ocean breezes. You can draw a curtain to separate the bed from the living room area, if you want privacy from your partner. Standard features of all the suites are marble bathrooms and walk-in closets. The “original” suites (not in the new block) have bathtubs, the new suites like mine have walk-in showers. Niceties include a flatscreen TV programmed with hundreds of movies, Egyptian cotton bedding, L'Occitane bath products, a mini-bar stocked with soft drinks and fresh flowers. My suite could sleep three, with a sofa bed. If you want a real balcony, upgrade to a 400-square-foot classic suite or larger Owner’s Suite – which can also be attached to adjoining suites to create an apartment-sized two-bedroom or three-bedroom accommodation. For the budget-conscious, there are Ocean View suites with big picture windows and 10 suites with portholes.

I can’t rave enough about the crew – most of whom hail from Indonesia or the Philippines. They are universally friendly, and pampering. They remember your name and your drink preferences and seem omnipresent. Don’t miss the crew talent show, where they show off dances and other traditions from their own countries and somehow there's always someone – a waiter, a steward, a behind-the-scenes worker – who sings divinely.

Windstar is the official cruise line of The James Beard Foundation, and recipes from James Beard-selected chefs appear on menus in the main dining room, AmphorA. You may find chicken liver pate with pickled shallots from Chef Renee Erickson from Seattle, winner of Beth Chef Northwest, or glazed Wild Shrimp with Spanish Chorizo by Annie Pettry of Louisville, who you may recognize from Season 14 of “Top Chef.” The menus also feature such favorites as beef Wellington. Windstar goes to great lengths to include local products on menus  – and in some destinations you can join the executive chef in hunting for ingredients at local farmer’s markets. As part of the stretching of the Star Breeze (and its sister ships Star Legend and Star Pride), Windstar added the 38-seat Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, the chef known for the Michelin-starred Casa Mono & Bar Jamon in New York. The tapas menu is over-the-top with its modern interpretations of Spanish classics – don’t miss the charred octopus and the small fried rice balls that burst into the flavors of paella. Equally impressive was the surf n’ turf, in this case: Confit chicken leg with chorizo and mussels. The must-do dessert is churros with dark chocolate sauce. Also added during the renovation, open for lunch, and located under a shade tarp on deck, is the Star Grill. Here you may sample creations by cookbook author and barbecue guru Steven Raichlen. My favorite was the bourbon-brined turkey. At night there is also the popular Candles restaurant, with indoor and outdoor dining and a creative steakhouse menu (again with some James Beard chef selections). It’s a romantic spot for a dinner for two. Reservations are required for Cuadro and Candles (there is no extra charge for any of the dining onboard). Accompany your dining with a decent wine selection, or ask a bartender to show off a cocktail creation.

The expanded World Spa has four treatment rooms, steam and sauna, an “experience” shower with multiple sprays, and a relaxation area where you can watch the sea while cocooning in ceramic heated  loungers and completely turn to mush. Impressively, Windstar updated its spa menu to include regionally inspired treatments that vary by region – such as a Coconut and Poultice Massage (from $169) in the Caribbean and a Rosemary and Thyme Massage ($189) in the Mediterranean.

Activities and entertainment

Most passengers on Star Breeze are content to sit in the pool sipping cocktails, or snuggling in a clamshell lounger with a good book. You won’t find the crazy activity schedule you would on larger ships, though there are fun wine-tasting sessions (for a fee). The bridge is open for those who want to talk about nautical stuff with the officers. Depending on where you are cruising there may be a cultural speaker onboard offering a lecture. Entertainment is provided by a five-piece band and singer and piano player combo – on my cruise the female singer really knew how to belt out a tune. Some of the music takes place outdoors, so you can dance under the stars. Families

The minimum age to sail with Windstar is 8, but this is not really a ship for kids – given that there are not any specific programs for them. Most cabins only accommodate two people, and any youngsters onboard would have to be able to dine with and otherwise mingle with adults. If you are a multigenerational group with teens, they may enjoy the watersports offerings.

The itinerary I sampled is round-trip from St. Maarten to Antigua, Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands (Tortola, Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda) and St. Barth’s. You are stopping at gorgeous beaches and hidden bays, following the yachting crowd. A lot of passengers prefer to explore on their own, but there are well-run excursions such as to The Baths, the sea caves on VIrgin Gorda. While my cruise was reconfigured because at the time some islands had COVID-19 related restrictions, the regular itinerary includes a super fun beach party and BBQ on On Jost Van Dyke, which I experienced on earlier sailings. In a sleepy bay in Anguilla, the ship’s marina comes down, affording an opportunity to play with the water toys and swim to an inflatable trampoline. A highlight for me is dreamy St. Barth’s where you anchor among the superyachts.

Sustainability initiatives

With the ship redo, Windstar added more energy efficient engines that reduce emissions of nitrous and sulfur oxides Advanced wastewater treatment systems were also installed. In terms of sustainability, Windstar sources food locally when possible. They’ve also reduced use of single-use plastics, providing refillable Natura water bottles in staterooms. Plastic straws and stirrers are not used unless specifically requested.

The Sailaway

A memorable event on Star Breeze takes place the day you board: The Sailaway experience. It started on the sailing yachts, when the sails were raised, and has continued with flags raised on the motor yachts. There’s much pomp and circumstance, ropes raising the line’s “W” logo, pulled by crew in dress uniforms, to the dramatic strains of “1492: Conquest of Paradise.” You’ll feel like endless possibilities await.

Final thoughts

When my friends ask me which cruise lines I recommend, Windstar is always on the list because it’s that perfect combination of upscale and relaxed. I love the small ports where the Star Breeze goes and how they do it. I mean, come on, you can eat cuisine by top chefs in your Hawaiian shirt.

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Star Breeze Overview

Windstar's Star Breeze is an intimate all-suite luxury yacht accommodating only 312 guests. The small guest capacity means that you'll have plenty of space to relax as you sail to one unique destination after another. Thanks to her smaller stature, Star Breeze has access to more intimate ports and narrow waterways, while also providing more personalized service and pampering.

After her massive refurbishment in 2021, the updated all-suite Star Breeze boasts new public areas, including a new spa, infinity pool, fitness area and two new dining venues. Windstar's Star Breeze also features all new bathrooms in every suite, as well as an entirely new category of Star Suites. The view from your suite is sure to inspire, and the onboard dining will be just as spectacular.

And of course, there's still the convenient Watersports Platform offering unlimited use of all watersports equipment, such as kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkel equipment and more.

• Passenger Capacity: 312 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 1989
• Last Refurbished: 2021

• All Suites Star Breeze features a new category of Star Suites, plus all new bathrooms in every suite. All suites offer queen beds with luxurious linens, flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, L'Occitane bath amenities and more!  

• World Spa The World Spa by Windstar offers Elemis products, a complete lineup of spa treatments and services, and Technogym fitness equipment. Spa offerings vary by destination, featuring treatments inspired by regional ingredients and specialties. Guided yoga and fitness classes are also available.  

• Watersports Platform Enjoy the unbeatable convenience of launching into water activities from the Watersports Platform, located at Star Breeze's aft. This unique platform opens right onto the sea, providing immediate access to swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, water skiing and windsurfing with complimentary state-of-the-art equipment.  

• World Class Dining Dine when and where you want at world-class venues, all with open seating. Lunch alfresco at Veranda, dinner in the fantastic Amphora, dessert in Stella Bistro and drinks at the moonlit Candles. Venues feature an array of fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from ports visited throughout your journey.  

• NEW! Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso Spanish flavors color the fresh cuisine of Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, an intimate and inventive twist on traditional tapas. Cuadro 44 offers seating for 38, including a chef's counter and communal table.  

• NEW! Star Grill by Steven Raichlen Star Breeze's new casual outdoor restaurant serves traditional grilled favorites, brought to you in partnership with acclaimed grilling expert, Steven Raichlen.  

• Culinary Experiences Embark on a variety of tasty shore excursions, including wine, brewery and distillery tours, as well as hands-on cooking classes led by expert chefs.  

• Star Boutique Windstar's newly transformed specialty shop, Star Boutique, features quality brand-name and exclusive Star Collection merchandise, from clothing and accessories to jewelry and fragrances—often duty-free!  

• Open Bridge Policy Weather and safety permitting, Star Breeze's Bridge is open to guests. The Captain and officers invite you to see visit and chat to learn about the ship's navigation and controls. Subject to change based on health and safety protocols.  

Star Breeze Cruise Destinations

Visit unforgettable destinations in 50 different nations with Windstar Cruises. Enjoy memorable and enlightening experiences in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, the South Pacific, the Caribbean and Central America. With Windstar’s smaller ships, you’ll call at ports that larger cruise ships can’t reach – giving you unique access to these regions’ hidden gems. Continue below to learn more about each of Windstar’s destinations or contact one of our expert cruise consultants to start planning your unique small-ship voyage with Windstar.

Dining in elegance on a James Beard Foundation Culinary cruise, attending VIP events at the Monaco Grand Prix, or skipping the lines to the Sistine Chapel are all possible on a themed cruise or cruise tour with Windstar Cruises.

South Pacific / Tahiti

Experience the true wonders of the South Pacific & Tahiti in their crystal-clear lagoons and lush rainforests.

Transatlantic

Sail across the Atlantic Ocean with Windstar Cruises' luxurious yachts or sail ships and enjoy a relaxing voyage like no other.

Star Breeze Departure Ports

Windstar Cruises’ unique small ships sail all over the world from a wide array of departure ports. For instance, you can depart from some of the world’s most distinguished cities like Athens, Dubai, Singapore, London, Stockholm, Hong Kong, Rome and Venice. You’ll also find smaller or more exotic departure ports, such as Papeete, Bridgetown, Philipsburg and Colon. But no matter where your cruise embarks, you’ll always know what you’re sailing towards – an unforgettable and totally unique small-ship experience.

Auckland, New Zealand

The mild temperatures in Auckland enhance an outdoorsy cruise destination. Tour the many beaches, hike beautiful mountain ranges or just wander Auckland’s city streets.

Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

This picture-perfect island is everything you ever dreamt of, from lush greenery inland and perfectly clear turquoise waters to the scent of gardenia from the coconut groves.

Lautoka, Fiji

Experience the beauty of Fiji when you visit its second largest city, Lautoka, the Sugar City.

Star Breeze Deck Plans

Star breeze staterooms.

Suite (BS1)

Suite (SBS)

Suite (sbs1), suite (ss1).

Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you. Your queen bed (which can be separated as twins if you prefer) features luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle weave robe and slippers, enjoy a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.

Your living area offers beautiful views from the forward-facing window and French doors onto your private veranda. Two spacious closets give you plenty of room to unpack.

Your Owner's Suite offers separate living room and dining areas. A forward-facing veranda, two flat-screen TVs and DVD players, and a full master bath and separate powder room indulge you in spacious comfort.

Photo Gallery for Star Breeze Cruise Ship

Enjoy a preview of the completely unique and utterly luxurious Windstar cruising experience in the following photo gallery. You’ll quickly see that Windstar Cruises’ fleet is like no other, with some ships boasting towering masts with billowing sails. You’ll also catch a glimpse of Windstar’s amazing destinations, many of which can only be experienced by the fleet’s intimate yachts.

Amphora aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Cuadro 44 aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Star Grill aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Classic Suite aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Owner's Suite aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Owner's suite bathroom on windstar's star breeze.

Pool aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

World Spa aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Sauna aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Fitness Center aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Yacht Club aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Star Boutique aboard Windstar's Star Breeze

Exterior of Windstar's Star Breeze

Top 10 Star Breeze Cruises

• Star Breeze Tahiti & the Tuamotu Islands 11D PPT-PPT (Mar 28 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (Mar 2024)
• Star Breeze Twice the Tahiti 17D PPT-PPT (Apr 8 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (Apr 2024)
• Star Breeze Tahiti & the Tuamotu Islands 10D PPT-PPT (Apr 8 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (Apr 2024)
• Star Breeze Dreams of Tahiti 7D PPT-PPT (Apr 18 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (Apr 2024)
• Star Breeze Dreams of Tahiti 7D PPT-PPT (Apr 25 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (Apr 2024)
• Star Breeze Dreams of Tahiti 7D PPT-PPT (May 2 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (May 2024)
• Star Breeze Twice the Tahiti 18D PPT-PPT (May 2 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (May 2024)
• Star Breeze Tahiti & the Tuamotu Islands 11D PPT-PPT (May 9 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (May 2024)
• Star Breeze Tahiti & the Tuamotu Islands Package with Air 10D+Air/Hotel PPT-PPT (May 27 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (May 2024)
• Star Breeze Tahiti & the Tuamotu Islands 10D PPT-PPT (May 27 2024) Departing From Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia (May 2024)

Learn More About Windstar Cruises

Accessibility

Learn about Windstar Cruises' handicap accessible cruises and accommodations for guests with disabilities or special needs, including mobility issues.

Savor dining aboard Windstar Cruises, including Star Grill , AmphorA , Stella Bistro , Candles Grill and more—all included with your cruise fare.

Entertainment

Enjoy Windstar Cruises' onboard entertainment, including live music at Compass Rose, informative port lectures, destination briefings, dancing and more.

Onboard Activities

Engage in Windstar Cruises' onboard activities, including an onboard Watersports Platform, WindSpa, pool, library, fitness center and duty-free shopping.

Service & Awards

Learn how Windstar Cruises' staff and crew take care of your every need with an extensive list of onboard services. Plus, view Windstar Cruises' awards.

Spa & Fitness

Unwind in Windstar Cruises' fitness center and WindSpa, offering massages, facials, herbal wraps and more.

Special Events

Learn about Windstar Cruises' special themed cruises. Themes include wine and food, the Grand Prix and more.

Explore Windstar Cruises' ship staterooms, including suites, deluxe balconies and deluxe oceanviews staterooms, as well as the luxurious Owners Suites.

Youth Programs

Learn about cruising with children aboard Windstar Cruises' intimate ships.

Cruise Type

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What It's Like to Cruise Around French Polynesia on Windstar's Star Breeze

The 312-passenger ship provides an intimate experience

Courtesy of Windstar

Final Verdict

It's not every day that a cruise ship is cut in half, stuffed with a new section, and welded back together—but that's precisely what happened to  Windstar 's   Star Breeze  in 2021.

The three-decade-old ship underwent the "stretching" process as a part of the $250 million  Star Plus Initiative . This expanded all three of Windstar's Star Class ships to allow for 100 more passengers, two new dining venues, and space for four new engines per ship.

While I hadn't sailed Star Breeze prior to its expansion, I can confirm that even at a 312-passenger capacity, the ship still feels exquisitely intimate. Here's how my first voyage went.

There are no standard cruise cabins on the Star Breeze—it is an all-suite yacht, and each suite layout features separate sitting and sleeping areas.

The Star Suites—the newest accommodations in the ship's recently-added midsection—make for stand-out lodgings. The interior decor is traditional but updated, with a light blue–and–gray color scheme and classic yacht-style details such as wood paneling.

You can choose between suites with large picture windows or Juliet balconies—I suggest the latter. Though the balcony isn't large enough for furniture, it's lovely to open the doors and feel the breeze (this is, after all, Star Breeze! ).  Bathrooms are impressively sized: There's a double vanity with a spacious shower, and there's also a walk-in closet.

Unlike the original suites, where the seating area is near the window, the new Star Suites have a bed near the window. I enjoyed this new layout, as it meant waking up to incredible views every morning—I didn't spend much time in my suite, so I didn't mind that the sitting area lacked those views. You can always book the original suites if you prefer the reverse layout.

Earlier this year, Windstar announced its planning to roll out two new specialty suites  to Star Breeze this spring. The new lodgings are inspired by Windstar’s sister companies— The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs and the Sea Island Resort in Georgia.

Windstar has partnered with the  James Beard Foundation , so its culinary program is an onboard highlight.

Two dining venues remain from Star Breeze's original layout: the main formal dining room, Amphora; an almost-cavernous space on deck 3 that serves a unique menu daily; and Veranda, a breakfast and lunch buffet that transforms into an alfresco seafood-and-steak spot named Candles for dinner.

Its two new dining venues are the outdoor Star Grill, a casual barbecue joint and grill by ​​Stephen Raichlin, and Cuadro 44, a specialty restaurant by Anthony Sasso that serves Spanish cuisine. Unfortunately, Cuadro 44 wasn't open during our sailing—I took my trip in 2022—but we were able to sample some of its menu items during a wine tasting. (The wine tasting was a highlight in my book, thanks to the informative bartender.)

While all meals are included onboard Windstar ships, alcoholic beverages are not—you can buy drinks à la carte or purchase a drink package. There's also room service, included in the rate, which I found particularly beneficial on mornings with early excursions.

Coming soon to the ship is a new plant-based menu, created in partnership with the National Health Association .

The expansion of Star Breeze made for quite a bit of outdoor space on decks 7 and 8, where you'll find the pool, hot tubs, and sun loungers. In French Polynesia, this is a particularly welcome addition—on the few days I stayed aboard the ship, I parked myself on a pool lounger with a book and several rounds of fruity cocktails.

There's also an expanded spa with a fitness center, thermal suite, and movement studio; a lecture hall for enrichment talks about each port; and the library-lounge Yacht Club. And at some ports—ones that require tendering to shore—the ship can open up its watersports platform, equipped with a trampoline, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Star Breeze   is light on nighttime entertainment—nights usually wrap up on the earlier side, after nightcaps in the Yacht Club or outdoor Star Bar, or live music at the Compass Rose bar. On one evening, however, there was particularly lively line dancing on deck.

Star Breeze's  Dreams of Tahiti  itinerary offers one or two days in each port, which provides ample time for excursions and on-your-own exploring. Excursions range from snorkeling—I recommend the drift snorkeling on Raiatea, where you float along a current that takes you over a coral garden—to 4x4 tours of cultural sites, vanilla plantations, and pearl diving communities. You can also take a helicopter ride around Bora Bora's Otemanu, the famous craggy peak at the center of the island.

Windstar also has a private island, Motu Mahaea, off Taha'a, which guests can visit for free. There are beach loungers, a restaurant, and a bar on the palm-tree-filled island.

Excursions are not included on Windstar, and on some islands with limited infrastructure, there's little to do on your own. As such, I spent a few days just enjoying the island views from the pool deck or playing around on the watersports platform. During our two days in Bora Bora, I explored two of the island's famous resorts via day passes that visitors can purchase.

My first stop was the  St. Regis Bora Bora , where day-pass visitors can dine at the resort's four restaurants, take a dip in its two pools, and even book a treatment at the spa. During my all-day visit, the highlights were snorkeling in the Lagoonarium, an artificial lagoon filled with tropical fish—don't forget to pop your head above the water to take in views of Otemanu from certain spots—and sunset cocktails with another stellar view of Otemanu.

The next day, I visited  Conrad Bora Bora Nui , a hillside property on its own island. Here, day-pass visitors can also take advantage of all the property's facilities, from the restaurants to the beach to the spa. If you can handle a pretty vertical hike, head to the top of the property to see views of Otemanu—or ask the staff for a golf cart ride to the top as I did. The beachside pool complex was calling my name, though, and I spent the rest of my afternoon in the water or napping in a cabana.

Cruises in French Polynesia are not cheap, but Windstar, and Star Breeze   in particular, finds its niche with a mid-range price point, an upscale small ship, and a strong culinary program. But as the rate does not include alcohol, excursions, Wi-Fi, or gratuities, charges can add up quickly. You can offset this by purchasing the all-inclusive package, which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi (though note that it's very slow and spotty), and gratuities priced at $89 per guest per day—you'll still be on your own for excursions, though.

The price of Windstar's Dreams of Tahiti voyage starts at $2,399. Find out more information or book your own trip here .

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Carnival Breeze

Review: “Dreams of Tahiti” cruise on Windstar’s Star Breeze

Just say the word, “Tahiti,” and, for many, it instantly evokes images of serene islands rising from sparkling waters in every hue of blue, palm trees swaying over pristine, white sands. Having just returned from our first time there, I can tell you it’s just as you imagined.

Pam and I made the 7,000-mile-plus, one-way trip from Florida to Tahiti’s capital city, Papeete, in two segments: Miami to San Francisco, then aboard French bee’s nonstop flight from San Francisco to Papeete.

We were in French Polynesian to take the seven-night, “Dreams of Tahiti” cruise on Windstar’s Star Breeze, the power yacht that just replaced Windstar’s sailing ship, “Wind Spirit” after a long run serving the Society Islands (the collective name for the 118 islands that comprise French Polynesia).

As a cruise line, Windstar has cruised here for almost 40 years, and one of the reasons Star Breeze was brought in is that she more than doubles the guest capacity of Wind Spirit, an indication of how in-demand Tahiti is as a cruise destination.

In late 2022, we took a Caribbean holiday cruise on Star Legend, the sister yacht to Star Breeze, so we were very familiar with the layout. We learned the previous cruise to ours had encountered stormy weather, which forced it to miss several ports of call (November to April is the rainy season). Fortunately, the Tahitian gods were smiling, and we had near-perfect weather the entire time.

Boarding and Disembarkation: 10/10

Guest capacity on Star Breeze is 312 — there were 254 of us on this cruise — so getting on and off the ship is relatively painless, one of many advantages to small ship cruising. One word of advice: Boarding commences at 1 pm, so no reason to get there early and wait in their shaded baggage area. Located some 1,200 miles south of the equator, halfway between Australia and Los Angeles, expect it to be hot, and humid.

You can make advance arrangements with Windstar if you need transport to the airport, and they also offer a post-cruise, three-night stay at Moorea’s Hotel Manava Beach Resort and Spa, which several people from our cruise opted to do. Uber hasn’t come to the islands yet, but taxis are plentiful. Be aware most don’t take credit cards, so you’ll need cash (American money is accepted pretty much everywhere) or Polynesian francs.

By the way, if you do arrive early — and many flights do — there is a large shopping market near the dock, as well as restaurants and bars.

Design and Appearance: 10/10

While Windstar’s power yachts like Star Breeze are almost 30 years old, it looks new. It had a major makeover a few years ago that added a whole new midsection and other upgrades, plus it is routinely refreshed every two years.

Getting around its eight decks is a “breeze,” so to speak. Most days, you’ll be topside on decks 7 and 8, where you’ll find the Yacht Club, a lounge with panoramic windows — perfect for relaxing, reading, meeting friends or enjoying coffee and light snacks from the bar. Also on these decks are the pool and hot tubs, the Star Grill and bar and plenty of seating.

Aft on deck 7 you’ll find the Veranda, serving breakfast and lunch for dining inside or al fresco. One deck below is Compass Rose, hosting nightly entertainment, and on deck 5, the multi-purpose Lounge. The main dining room is Amphora, located on deck 3.

Just like a yacht, the vibe here is relaxed and informal. Capt. Terry and his officers circulate freely among the guests — they even an open bridge policy, and you are welcome to visit and chat with the officers on duty. Clothing-wise, you can dispense with the formalities. Country club or island chic is the order of the day — in the heat you’ll want to dress for comfort.

Stateroom: 9/10

It’s an all-suite ship, and ours was a balcony stateroom on deck 6. Like many older vessels, it featured a step-out, French balcony that let in the Polynesian trade winds. Our upgraded bath had double sinks and a walk-in shower. There was a walk-in closet, along with a seating area beside the bed.

While there were both American and European plugs, as well as USB connections, as always, we pack a power strip for our electronics. There is a nice selection of choices on your stateroom TV, including in-demand movies/TV shows and music.

Sono, our stateroom attendant, refreshed the room twice daily. One of the nice “extras” Windstar provided were samples of local Tahitian products, such as vanilla sandalwood soap (vanilla is a major crop in the islands), Monoi Tiare moisturizing oil, made from the tiare flower (the Tahitian gardenia), and perfume made from Tapanier flowers as we could “indulge in the enchantment of your French Polynesian experience when you return home.”

Note you won’t receive a copy of the Daily Planner on your bed — it’s available digitally on the Windstar app or your stateroom TV. If you need a hard copy, guest services can provide it.

Star Breeze offers a full range of dining options, including two specialty restaurants — Candles and the Spanish-themed Cuadro 44 — plus the main dining room, Amphora. There’s also the more casual breakfast/lunch venue, Veranda and the eclectic Star Grill on deck 8. Candles and Veranda share the same space, aft on deck 7, and feature both open air and inside dining (Veranda by day and Candles at night). It’s a good idea to make your specialty reservations after you board.

The menus offer something for every taste and do a good job of incorporating local favorites as well. Windstar has a partnership with the James Beard Foundation, and menus feature a James Beard selection as an option.

Light snacks are available in the Yacht Club and soft-serve ice cream is adjacent to the Star Grill. I liked to start my day with Swedish Pancakes in Veranda, and end in Amphora, where the food is uniformly excellent. When late night hunger strikes, there’s room service 24/7 as well.

Excursions: 10/10

While enjoying a five-star vacation at sea is a destination in itself, guests are here to experience everything French Polynesia has to offer, and Windstar’s excursion lineup has something for everyone.

As you would expect, water sports are front and center, with many opportunities to snorkel in some of the world’s most beautiful, crystal-clear waters. Other high-interest tours include visits to black pearl farms, vanilla plantations, white sand (and black sand) beaches and sightseeing/shopping.

Along with the excursions, Windstar does an commendable job of highlighting the local culture. We were joined on our cruise by Pearl, a Tahitian cultural ambassador, who entertained and educated us about the islands, as well as Tihoti, who spoke about the rich history behind Tahitian tattoos.

Windstar also staged two highlight events on private motus (islands): A beach BBQ and a fire dancing demonstration and sunset dinner. In both cases, it was a first-rate experience for the guests.

Service: 10/10

With a crew/guest ratio that approached 1:1 on this cruise, we felt pampered. For anything we needed, someone was always close at hand to assist. Special kudos to the Maitre d’ Hotel, Karnick, who took great care of us in Amphora (coincidentally, he also served in the same role on our Star Legend cruise) and Sono, our stateroom attendant. Guest Services was also a big help for guests who needed assistance with WiFi.

Entertainment: 9/10

When it comes to small ship cruising, guests have to adjust their expectations. Typically, you don’t find big stage productions, Broadway shows or even casinos. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be entertained after a day of excursions.

Star Breeze featured nightly entertainment in Compass Rose, the lounge/bar area on deck 6, where the house band Aplooza played guests requests and on one occasion, performed a tribute to The Beatles. Pearl also played here as well, offering up music from her native Tahiti.

On one day of the cruise, the Tahitian group The Mammas and The Pappas played while Tahitian women created wrist corsages for the ladies from tropical flowers and demonstrated how to wear a pareo, the traditional wraparound skirt found in the islands.

For water sports enthusiasts, one of the ship’s most popular features is the Water Sports Platform aft on deck 6. Here, guests are welcome to swim, paddleboard, kayak or just chill on a float while Star Breeze is anchored off one of the islands. Now this really is how the other half lives on their yachts.

Overall Rating: 9.6/10

For guests who want to immerse themselves into the culture of these storied islands, Windstar draws on their long experience here to create unforgettable memories. You’ll discover each island visited — from Tahiti and Moorea to Riatea, Huahine and Bora Bora — has its own unique charm and personality.

By including several overnights, you’ll have an opportunity to do some exploring on your own. Don’t miss sampling the local fruits and cuisine — we bought coconut bread from a street vendor and it was the best bread we’ve ever had. Although Tahitian and French are mostly what’s spoken, English is also widely in evidence as well, and the islanders themselves couldn’t be more warm and welcoming.

Your fare includes everything except alcohol, gratuities, laundry, shore excursions and Internet. If you need extra pampering, there’s is a full-service spa onboard, where I treated myself to a shave and facial.

There’s no better way to see this magical place than on a boutique cruise ship — make that, yacht — like Star Breeze. One visit and you’ll be under its enchanted spell.

PHOTOS credit Gerry Barker

• Star Breeze
• Snorkeling in the island’s pristine waters
• Visiting a motu (private island)
• One of the pearl farms
• Waterfall at Faarumai on Tahiti
• Example of a pareo
• Scene of the beach BBQ
• Fire dancers perform for guests
• Beach on Moorea, with Windstar anchored in Cook’s Bay

See cruises Windstar (cruisecompete.com)

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• Friday, March 22, 2024

CruiseToTravel

Inside the transformed star breeze.

Seattle-based Windstar Cruises has welcomed Star Breeze back to the fleet after the all-suite yacht was cut in half. During the renovation the yacht was lengthened by 25.6 meters (84 ft) and 50 new suites were added. The update also included adding two innovative restaurants, a reimagined spa/fitness center, enlarged pool and deck, new bathrooms in all suites and new efficient engines.  

Capacity aboard Star Breeze increased from 212 guests to 312 keeping it small enough for visiting small ports and hidden harbors around the world. The revamped ship won’t be welcoming passengers until 2021. 

While Windstar has temporarily suspended operations, renovation work on its three Star Plus Class ships moved forward, with Star Breeze as the first to emerge from a $250 million Star Plus Initiative that also includes sister ships Star Pride and Star Legend. The two ships will join the fleet later in 2021, following their completed Star Plus transformations carried out by Fincantieri at its shipyard in Palermo (Italy). Fincantieri is regarded as the leader in major cruise ship renovations, particularly for this kind of highly complex undertaking. 

As part of the new Beyond Ordinary Care program Star Breeze was also outfitted with new HEPA filters and UV-C light technology. The rest of the fleet will also be outfitted with these updates and more before returning to service. 

What’s new on board  

New dining options

One of the most anticipated developments in Star Breeze’s renaissance is the addition of two new restaurants: one an outdoor barbecue concept with grilling guru Steven Raichlen and the other a Spanish small plates restaurant from Anthony Sasso, one of the youngest chefs to be recognized by the Michelin Guide. 

Star Grill by Steven Raichlen embraces the al fresco setting and ocean views with drinks like Strawberry Pimm’s Cups and Raspberry/Melon Slushies. From the smoker, Tea Smoke Duck and Coffee-Crusted Prime Brisket with Chipotle Molasses Barbecue Sauce will impress guests, along with grilled selections such as Shrimp on Sugarcane with Mount Gay Rum Sauce. Vegetarians won’t be ignored, including choices like Planked Camembert with Pepper Jelly, Pecans and Grilled Bread, Mexican Grilled Corn, Falafel Burgers, and Grilled Eggplant Salad. 

On Deck 6 at Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, guests can expect a curated collection of Spanish staples, all with a modern twist. Menu items range from Galicia’s Pulpo Gallego to Valencia’s Fideos Mar y Montaña, with decadent desserts including Madrid’s famous Churros y Chocolate. A chef’s counter overlooking an open kitchen lets diners observe the cooking process, and a Spanish-centric wine and cocktail list completes the experience. The restaurant seats just 38 patrons at maximum capacity. 

At Veranda restaurant, where guests are served breakfast and lunch daily, there’s a new coffee station, as well as more outdoor and ocean-view seating. Veranda transforms at night into another concept called Candles, Windstar’s reservation-only steakhouse. Dinner is served outdoors, under the stars and candlelight (thus the name), unless weather prohibits. Candles will debut a new menu on Star Breeze with a jaw-dropping 40-ounce Beef Bone-In Ribeye Tomahawk Steak, as well as a 30-ounce Bone-In Porterhouse Steak. Both are Linz Heritage Certified Black Angus, carved tableside, and require a small upcharge. (Note that dining across Windstar’s fleet is included in the cruise fare, with no additional upcharges beyond these individual items.) 

A true spa & fitness center 

Star Breeze now has a completely re-imagined and enlarged spa and fitness center to invigorate active guests. The workout equipment is made by Technogym, an Italian company known for its cutting-edge designs. The spa menu features regional spa treatments and destination-themed therapies as part of the World Spa by Windstar program. Massage therapists and beauticians will be using products from Elemis, a luxurious British body and skincare line.

More deck space / outdoor amenities 

The yacht now has a large pool and hot tub on an elevated top deck, offering outstanding views, along with expanded outdoor deck areas for relaxing and sun-bathing. 

New suites 

There are 50 new suites featuring new suite categories and open floor plan configurations, as well as two brand-new, larger Owner’s Suites. These combine suites to create up to a three-bedroom, two-balcony suite – the first of its kind in the cruise industry.  Every suite on board features all-new bathrooms. 

Important, but less flashy for guests… 

There are new, state-of-the-art, efficient engines and diesel generators, plus a new elevator mid-ship, making access to all decks easy from anywhere on board. There’s a comfortable tender loading area located mid-ship and two new 90-passenger tenders that will ferry guests to port when yachts are at anchor. In addition, staff and crew areas and accommodations were expanded and upgraded.  

COVID and cruising 

Windstar Cruises recently introduced a new Beyond Ordinary Care program, which is a multi-layered strategy with key hospital-grade elements: HEPA filters and UV-C ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to filter and disinfect the air, plus electrostatic sprayers to sanitize all surfaces throughout the yacht. The company worked with the Anschutz Medical Center department of epidemiology to design a multi-layered approach that takes the best practices in science, technology and behavior together, and believes this comprehensive program to provide a healthy environment on board will also give travelers (both avid Windstar guests and new ones) confidence to book when paired with a Travel Assurance Booking Policy that gives flexibility to make plans and update them without fees if things change. 

For more information visit windstarcruises.com . 

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The Newly Transformed all-suite Star Plus Class Has Arrived

Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso

Owner's Suite Balcony

Owner's Suite Bathroom

Owner's Suite Bedroom

Owner's Suite Living Room

Star Grill by Steven Raichlen

Grand Owner's Suite

Star Balcony Suite

Cuadro 44 Bar

Cuadro 44 Communal Table

The transformation is not about getting bigger, it’s about offering our guests more of what they love about Windstar. Each yacht now serves 312 guests total which nearly matches the capacity for Wind Surf . The additional capacity keeps us squarely in the under 350 category. We will continue to offer the world’s best private yacht style cruising experience but with more amenities that our guests have been asking us for like additional dining venues and a world-class Spa and Fitness Center. We have made these improvements to ensure these beloved yachts may continue to operate well into the future. This re-imaging has taken the former Star Class yachts to the next level, deserving of the new title of Star Plus Class.

THE TRANSFORMATION

Star plus class transformation.

Watch time lapse footage of the Star Class yachts as they transform into the Star Plus Class. See how we cut the yachts in half, inserted a new section, and all the new suites and amenities that we’ve added, including the new engines. To our President Christopher Prelog, it’s like a new yacht – would you agree?

Welcome Aboard our Star Plus Class

Milton Ceklic, our Hotel General Manager onboard all-suite Star Breeze , takes us on a tour of the newly transformed yacht. Walk through the 1,374-square-foot Grand Owner’s Suite. Get up close to the new bathrooms and the completely redone Owner’s Suite Forward. He also takes us through his favorite parts of the yacht, including World Spa by Windstar and the new elevated infinity pool.

How To Stretch A Ship

We've added 84 feet to our ships! Watch this video to find out how we did it.

Book now for voyages on the transformed star class ships

Sailings began in 2021 and offer new itineraries including the Holy Land, Black Sea, and Tahiti.

SNEAK PEEK TOUR

Join John Gunner, VP of Expansion Projects, and Captain Neil Broomhall, as they give you a tour of newly transformed all-suite Star Breeze . She now boasts more space with the addition of 50 new suites, two innovative new restaurants, a reimagined spa/fitness center, enlarged pool and deck, new bathrooms in all suites and new efficient engines. She offers more amenities we know our guests want while still being small enough to travel the narrow waterways and visit the small ports Windstar is known for.

NEWLY TRANSFORMED STAR BREEZE

After nearly a year at the Fincanterri shipyard in Palermo, Windstar Cruises took delivery of the newly transformed Star Breeze on November 17, 2020! This is a such a momentous occasion after all of the hard work, on one of the most complex ship projects ever completed. After inserting a new 84 foot block and adding 4 new environmentally friendly, and efficient engines, new bathrooms to every suite, two new restaurants, the new World Spa by Windstar, a new pool, and so much more – the only thing we didn’t touch was the name on the of the ship! We cannot wait to have you see her for yourself once we resume sailing.

STAR PLUS CLASS ITINERARY UPDATE

Due to the pandemic, the shipyard in Italy closed for several weeks and is now on a reduced workforce schedule to provide a safe working environment for their employees. As a result, completion of the Star Plus Class yachts was delayed. Star Breeze began sailing on June 19, 2021, Star Legend started sailing on September 4, 2021, and Star Pride will begin sailing on April 29, 2022.

WE CUT OUR SHIP IN HALF

We’ve hit our first big milestone in our $250 Million Star Plus Initiative with the cutting of Star Breeze and the insertion of the new 84 foot block.

On April 2, 2019 at Fincantieri’s shipyard “Arsenale Triestino San Marco”, in Trieste, Italy, John Gunner, Vice President of Expansion Projects, pushed the button which activated the torch to make the initial cut in the new steel that will become the first of three new ships. The new sections will be built in Trieste and then will be transported south by barge to the Fincantieri yard in Palermo, Sicily, Italy to be inserted into the iconic Windstar ships.

$250 Million

It adds up., new engines per ship.

Oh hey, better fuel efficiency.

new suites per ship

Each with the bed beside the window in a more open layout

new dining experiences

Styles and flavors forthcoming.

The investment that $250 Million represents.

The added length of each ship after installing an all-new section.

square feet

The new Grand Owner's Suite Midship combines with the adjoining suite for a 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom suite.

new bathrooms

Across all suites in the ship.

new tenders

They’ll hold more guests for shorter wait times and depart from a new more convenient and easily accessible tender platform.

NEW SUITE CATEGORIES

Star Porthole Suite

Deluxe Suite

Suite Your Heart Out

Want to snuggle up to the sea with a bed beside the window? Or combine our new Owner's Suite to create a three-bedroom, two-balcony floor plan? With 50 new suites in the brand-new Star Suite Category, picking your private retreat is part of the adventure.

Freshen Up. We’ll Go First.

Nothing beats the fresh start of a new day in a new city, and so we've taken a fresh approach to getting ready with redesigned bathrooms in ALL suites on the ship. New showers, new sinks, new mirrors, and new tile. It's sure to start your morning off with a smile.

Same Small Ship Advantage

At 156 suites—312 guests or less—will our suites stay spacious, our decks uncrowded, and your days unregimented? You bet your walk-in closet.

MORE OF WHAT YOU LOVE

Sightsee While You Relax

Build a few water slides? Or offer regionally inspired spa treatments with glacial mud body wraps and basalt stone massages? The choice was easy. This is a new level of exploring while relaxing in the World Spa by Windstar.

Can you still explore the smaller ports that bigger ships can’t reach? You bet the steeples of Sanary-sur-Mer and the sand on Isla Parida.

Better Living on Board

We’re redefining what it means to travel well by expanding and fully redesigning our World Spa by Windstar and Fitness Center, so you’ll have all the inspiration you need to treat yourself right.

A Secret Spot

Want to find a private spot just for yourself? Try the whirlpool on the bow of the yacht that's hidden on deck 5.

ELEVATE YOUR VIEW

We're upping our game (literally) with a gorgeous pool and whirlpool as a focal point, accessible from both upper decks. The expanded sundeck also gives you more room to sunbathe and relax.

Lights, Pool, Action!

Our new pool lights up at night, like a fountain you can splash in. You know you've always wanted to do it - here's your chance to try.

introducing our new restaurants

With two brand new restaurants, you will be able to taste a variety of cuisines from around the globe. Whether you are looking for afternoon tapas or barbecue grilled by a master, the option to relax and enjoy delicious meals is always a guarantee.

The most inventive, modern grill at sea. You can tell a lot about a culture by the way it grills. You’ll find all your traditional grilled and barbecued favorites (and discover new dishes from around the globe) at Star Grill by Steven Raichlen — our upcoming casual outdoor restaurant brought to you in partnership with the man who reinvented barbecue.

For Raichlen, a multi-award-winning writer, lecturer and international TV host, barbecue isn’t a pastime, it’s a calling. The founder of Barbecue University and Barbecue Hall of Famer hosts the popular Project Fire and Project Smoke shows on Public Television. His 31 books — many of them New York Times bestsellers — have won five James Beard Awards and three IACP / Julia Child Awards and have been translated into 17 languages.

Soon you can taste for yourself where Raichlen’s curiosity for world barbecue takes him. Just steps away from the popular Star Bar, the Star Grill by Steven Raichlen offers alfresco dining with seating for 95 on the top deck to take in the ocean breeze and views. Experience traditional and world barbecue with a modern twist, from maple sriracha chicken wings to Danish smoked shrimp, from Hill Country brisket to lemongrass pork — or on sea days, enjoy a mid-morning Frühschoppen with artisanal grilled sausage and pretzel rolls. Served with a sea view!

SMOKED SHRIMP COCKTAIL

MAPLE SRIRACHA DRUMSTICKS

Only four ingredients, easy to eat drumsticks with a sweet fiery maple-sriracha glaze are simple, yet astonishingly tasty. This often overlooked cut delivers a rich meaty flavor with a touch of Scotch whisky to add to the additional smoke flavor.

Excerpted from Project Fire by Steven Raichlen, photographs by Matthew Benson. Workman Publishing (c) 2018.

If there’s one dish that epitomizes barbecue, that every aspiring smoke master hopes to perfect, it’s brisket. After 8 to 10 hours of smoking in the traditional fuel of Oak, apple, mesquite, and hickory for brisket, you will surely be in for a treat and will be well worth the wait.

Excerpted from Project Smoke by Steven Raichlen, photographs by Matthew Benson. Workman Publishing (c) 2016.

SMOKED SHRIMP

Nothing more in the way of seasoning is needed than smoke from local beach wood for sweet Baltic Sea shrimp. Not even salt or pepper. The fireworks come from the pristine shrimp – and from a pair of piquant Danish sauces.

ABOUT STEVEN RAICHLEN

Steven Raichlen hosts the popular TV shows Steven Raichlen’s Project Fire and Project Smoke, Primal Grill, and Barbecue University on Public Television. He stars in three French language TV shows and an Italian show, Steven Raichlen Grills Italy, which airs on Gambero Rosso. The author of 31 books, many of them award-winners, Raichlen wrote the international blockbusters: The Barbecue Bible, How to Grill, Planet Barbecue, and Project Smoke. He founded Barbecue University and has lectured on the history of barbecue at Harvard, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Library of Congress.

Small plates and exquisite Iberian flavors welcome you on board.

Anthony Sasso on CBS This Morning

"I've spent a lifetime studying Spanish food and culture, working in several Catalan kitchens, traveling the Iberian landscape, and learning from the masters: Adria, Roca, Ruscelada, Santimaria, Dali, Picasso, Miro! It's led to some of the most acclaimed and recognized Spanish food in America. This new venture with Windstar will be the perfect vehicle to transport all of those flavors back to the sea where they were born and I'm extrememly excited in going along for the ride, back to where it all started."

Anthony spent time in Spain’s Costa Brava at renowned restaurant El Celler de Can Rocca before becoming head chef at Casa Mono where he earned the restaurant a Michelin star 10 individual times. A James Beard Foundation-recognized chef, he hosted Windstar’s James Beard Foundation: Spanish Symphony culinary cruise in summer 2018

SAVOR THE FLAVORS

Introducting our new eclectic Spanish restaurant, Cuadro 44 , in partnership with Chef Anthony Sasso. Sasso, a 13-year veteran of the Michelin-starred restaurant Casa Mono , offers an inventive take on modern Spanish cuisine inspired by his travels all over Spain.

A TASTE OF CULTURE

An alum of Windstar's culinary-themed cruise program, Sasso's cuisine has already proven poular with guests, and with Cuadro 44 he creates not only the tastes of one of our favorite cruising regions, but aspects of the local culture as well. With a centerpiece of a communal table for 10, the restaurant encourages sharing of both regional dishes and of stories from your adventures ashore.

PICKS FOR THE PALATE

Along with your personal main entree, choose from a delicious selection of appetizers, sides, and desserts designed to be passed around and shared including Jamon Iberico, 24 month aged port leg raised solely on acorns in Southern Spain, and a favorite of Madrid, Churros y Chocolate, cinnamon and sugar fritters served with spicy hot chocolate and fresh seasonal fruit. It's a fresh new way of experiencing Spanish culture and enjoying the company of fellow guests.

CURATED COLLECTION OF SPANISH STAPLES

Sasso has been praised for his interpretations of distinctly classic Spanish staples served with modern imagination and a well-reserched sense of humor. Paella served in a "croqueta" form is a bite-size wonder of the national dish, with the "socarrat" represented in the coating of the saffron rice ball. His egg and potato tortilla is garnished with a sprinkling of herb gremolata made from olive oil potato chips and Sasso's cod "pil pil," one of the most difficult preparations of the Basque canon, is cut with nora chilies and seasoned with same salt water from which the cod hails.

"The design for Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso draws from the various regions of Spain, recalling the warm feeling of a rustic home. The residential scale combined with soft, indirect lighting creates an intimate atmosphere where guests feel surrounded by the sights, smells, and tastes of Spain. A cozy chef's counter lets diners experience the cooking up close, viewing into an open kitchen. Handcrafted details and colorful, intricate patterns provide a richness reminiscent of Andalusia, and playful accents on the walls and in the furniture capture the whimsy of Barcelona."

Ray Chung, Director of Design, The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry

Add flavor.

Richer selection of dining venues shipwide.

Seating Worth Savoring

As always, enjoy open seating at all of our dining venues, but with more ocean-view seats, comfy outdoor furniture, and dining room upgrades, we think you’ll like your options even more.

Feed Your Curiosity

We've taken beloved favorites and made them even better. Amphora has been relocated to allow for more light to filter into the dining room at sunset and views of the sea. Veranda now offers an expanded buffet and additional seating. It's just a taste of what's to come.

We’re maintaining our guest to crew ratio of 1.5:1, so we’ll still be there with what you need before you know you need it. Our crew can’t wait to welcome you aboard the newly transformed all-suite Star Plus Class yachts.

ITINERARIES

Ready, set, sail.

Book your next trip on a reimagined all-suite Star Plus Class yacht and experience the transformation first hand.

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• Star Breeze

Ship Specifications

• ITINERARIES

Welcome Aboard Star Breeze

One of Windstar's sleek, newly renovated, all-suite power yachts, Star Breeze is perfect for warm-weather destinations and ideally suited for up-close exploration of islands and hidden coastal coves where larger ships cannot go. You'll feel like you're aboard your own private yacht almost as soon as you step aboard.

See for yourself what small ship cruising is all about, sit back and relax at one of the onboard lounges., relax on the deck as you enjoy a cocktail in the company of new friends..

One of three all-suite power yachts in the Windstar fleet (the others being Star Pride and Star Legend ), Star Breeze's sleek six-deck design and spacious public spaces offer passengers an unforgettable experience that redefines luxurious cruising comfort.

Whether you want to relax by the pool or catch up on some reading, Star Breeze's variety of public spaces offer a little something for everyone! Some of these include the WindSpa, fitness center, an entertainment lounge, a water sports platform, the Star Bar, a counter-current pool, a whirlpool, courtyard, screening room and a library.

Star Breeze features a multitude of onboard dining options including the gourmet, AmphorA Restaurant. Here, your taste buds are invited on a foodie adventure of a lifetime. With no preset times or seats, dine when you want with who you want. Enjoy your meal with an accompanying selection of vintage wines.

All staterooms come equipped with second-to-none ocean views, queen beds which can separate into two twin beds, Egyptian cotton linens, a flat screen TV with DVD player, a mini bar/refrigerator, a safe, walk-in closet, 110/220 volt outlets and all bathrooms are equipped with a variety of elegant toiletries, a shower and tub and an accompanying waffle-weave robe and slippers.

• Alternate dining options include the more casual Veranda or dine under the company of the stars at Candles Grill. All dining commons offer specialty menus available for those with specific dietary requirements
• A variety of equipment is available for use for water activities such as water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling and kayaking, weather permitting
• Unlimited use of the fitness center
• Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages including cappuccino, espresso and other specialty non-alcoholic drinks
• 24-hour room service

Welcome Aboard

View Cabin Categories

Balcony Suite 1

Ocean View Suite 3

Balcony Suite

Ocean View Suite 2

Ocean View Suite 1

Ocean View Suite

Onboard Experience

ALL ITINERARIES

Cruising with Star Breeze

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Founded in 1984 as Windstar Sail Cruises, Windstar Cruises today is one of the world's leading operators of small luxury cruise ships. Its award-winning fleet of yachts accommodating between 148 and 310 guests sails to some 150 ports in 50 nations across the globe. Our guests have enjoyed Tauck's personalized sailing on Windstar ships for many years, including the company's classic yachts  Wind Star  and Wind Surf .

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Strange Glow Over Moscow Skies Triggers Panic as Explosions Reported

B right flashes lit up the night sky in southern Moscow in the early hours of Thursday morning, new footage appears to show, following reports of an explosion at an electrical substation on the outskirts of the city.

Video snippets circulating on Russian-language Telegram channels show a series of flashes on the horizon of a cloudy night sky, momentarily turning the sky a number of different colors. In a clip shared by Russian outlet MSK1.ru, smoke can be seen rising from a building during the flashes lighting up the scene.

Newsweek was unable to independently verify the details of the video clips, including when and where it was filmed. The Russian Ministry of Emergency situations has been contacted via email.

Several Russian Telegram accounts said early on Thursday that residents of southern Moscow reported an explosion and a fire breaking out at an electrical substation in the Leninsky district, southeast of central Moscow.

Local authorities in the Leninsky district told Russian outlet RBC that the explosion had happened in the village of Molokovo. "All vital facilities are operating as normal," Leninsky district officials told the outlet.

The incident at the substation in Molokovo took place just before 2 a.m. local time, MSK1.ru reported.

Messages published by the ASTRA Telegram account, run by independent Russian journalists, appear to show residents close to the substation panicking as they question the bright flashes in the sky. One local resident describes seeing the bright light before losing access to electricity, with another calling the incident a "nightmare."

More than 10 villages and towns in the southeast of Moscow lost access to electricity, the ASTRA Telegram account also reported. The town of Lytkarino to the southeast of Moscow, lost electricity, wrote the eastern European-based independent outlet, Meduza.

Outages were reported in the southern Domodedovo area of the city, according to another Russian outlet, as well as power failures in western Moscow. Electricity was then restored to the areas, the Strana.ua outlet reported.

The cause of the reported explosion is not known. A Telegram account aggregating news for the Lytkarino area described the incident as "an ordinary accident at a substation."

The MSK1.ru outlet quoted a local resident who speculated that a drone may have been responsible for the explosion, but no other Russian source reported this as a possible cause.

Ukraine has repeatedly targeted Moscow with long-range aerial drones in recent months, including a dramatic wave of strikes in late May.

On Sunday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the region's air defense systems had intercepted an aerial drone over the city of Elektrostal, to the east of Moscow. No damage or casualties were reported, he said.

The previous day, Russian air defenses detected and shot down another drone flying over the Bogorodsky district, northeast of central Moscow, Sobyanin said.

There is currently no evidence that an aerial drone was responsible for the reported overnight explosion at the electrical substation in southern Moscow.

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15 men brought to military enlistment office after mass brawl in Moscow Oblast

Local security forces brought 15 men to a military enlistment office after a mass brawl at a warehouse of the Russian Wildberries company in Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast on Feb. 8, Russian Telegram channel Shot reported .

29 people were also taken to police stations. Among the arrested were citizens of Kyrgyzstan.

A mass brawl involving over 100 employees and security personnel broke out at the Wildberries warehouse in Elektrostal on Dec. 8.

Read also: Moscow recruits ‘construction brigades’ from Russian students, Ukraine says

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron !

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine

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Electrostal History and Art Museum

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Electrostal History and Art Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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