Windstar to debut Star Explorer with RiverOcean Voyages in 2027

Windstar Cruises is expanding its European offerings with the launch of Star Explorer, a new 224-guest all-suite yacht that will debut in December 2026 before introducing a new style of cruising that combines river and ocean itineraries.

The vessel will begin service with an inaugural winter season in the Mediterranean before launching Windstar's new RiverOcean Voyages in 2027.

Designed to navigate both inland waterways and open ocean, Star Explorer will allow guests to sail from rivers directly to coastal destinations without changing ships.

Unlike traditional river vessels that remain inland or ocean cruise ships that stay along the coast, Star Explorer is purpose-built to do both.

A single itinerary, for example, can pair Bordeaux's wine country with Portugal's Atlantic coast, or sail up Spain's Guadalquivir River into the heart of Seville before crossing to Morocco.

"We are building our river program deliberately,” said Janet Bava, chief commercial officer, in a press release. “Star Explorer serves 224 guests, which gives us access to the Seine, the Garonne, the Guadalquivir and the Thames on a yacht that can also cross open water the same week. We have nine Star Explorer river voyages on sale for 2027 and we expect to grow that in 2028 and beyond as guests tell us where they want to go next."

Mediterranean debut

Following its December 2026 debut, Star Explorer will spend January through April 2027 sailing the Mediterranean as part of Windstar's Local Season program, which focuses on off-season travel when larger cruise ships have typically departed for the Caribbean.

The yacht's smaller size allows it to berth in ports inaccessible to larger vessels while offering extended stays so guests can dine ashore and experience destinations during the quieter winter months.

Highlights include the eight-night Carnival of Venice: Winter Italy and the Dalmatian Coast, timed to coincide with Venice's Carnevale celebrations, as well as the 24-night Star Collector: Winter Mediterranean Adventure, which visits destinations including Málaga, Cartagena, Nice, Genoa, Naples and Dubrovnik.

River & ocean in one itinerary

Windstar's RiverOcean Voyages eliminate the need for guests to switch ships between river and coastal cruising.

Instead, the same yacht sails inland before returning to sea, allowing travellers to combine both experiences in a single voyage.

Nine RiverOcean itineraries are available for 2027, including sailings through France, Spain, Portugal, England, Morocco and Ireland.

Fares for the RiverOcean Voyages start at US$2,118 per guest, based on double occupancy.

Advisor opportunities

Windstar says the new itineraries provide travel advisors with an opportunity to build on the popularity of river cruising by offering clients a single vacation that combines inland waterways with coastal destinations.

The cruise line is also highlighting its flexible group program, which supports groups of as few as 10 guests and includes complimentary staterooms, shipboard credit and increased commission opportunities.

Through its Star Advantage Groups program, advisors can earn a 1:7 tour conductor credit, bonus commission and onboard amenities, while group rates typically offer savings of five to 10 per cent.

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