Windstar: Star Seeker Debut in January 2026
Windstar Cruises, a company specializing in small-sized cruise ships, has recently unveiled an overview of its new gem: the Star Seeker. This luxury ship, capable of accommodating up to 224 passengers, will make its official debut in January 2026, promising a unique and refined travel experience.
The Star Seeker will feature 112 spacious suites, designed to ensure maximum comfort and relaxation for guests. Of these, only ten will not have a private veranda or a full-height sliding window, allowing almost all passengers to enjoy breathtaking ocean views. The ship will offer five different dining options, all included in the cruise price, a spa with scenic access from the upper deck, a state-of-the-art gym, and a revamped version of Windstar’s famous water sports platform. The latter will transform the ocean into a true infinity pool, offering guests the opportunity to dive directly into the sea.
Final rendering of Star Seeker 2
Final rendering of Star Seeker
Stijn Creupelandt, Vice President of Hotel Operations for Windstar Cruises, emphasized that the suites on the Star Seeker have been designed to offer an oasis of tranquility. The choice of light woods and a soothing color palette, including shades of blue, green, and natural browns, reflects the essence of the Star Class, Creupelandt stated. Inspired by natural elements like the sea, sky, and landscapes, these colors and textures contribute to creating a serene atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing getaway. In the ship’s common areas and restaurants, more vibrant tones inspired by the colors of sunrise and sunset will be used, ensuring a perfect balance between elegance and comfort.
Among the novelties of the Star Seeker are the two Horizon Owner’s Suites, a new category of accommodations located at the aft on deck 7. These suites, the most luxurious and spacious on the ship, can be combined with adjacent suites to offer more space, making them ideal for multigenerational families. Each suite features a balcony offering spectacular views, perfect for relaxing moments like an evening aperitif or a private dinner. In total, the ship will offer 12 different types of suites, many of which will allow for triple occupancy.
Render Horizon Owners suite, Star Seeker
Render Triple Suite, Star Seeker
Render Horizon Owners Suite Bedroom
The Star Seeker will also feature 72 suites with large verandas, where guests can enjoy fresh air and panoramic views. A first for Windstar, the 30 infinity suites will be equipped with a large floor-to-ceiling sliding window that can be opened halfway to let in the sea breeze.
Even the 10 ocean-view suites will offer a comfortable experience, with abundant natural light, a glass mosaic shower, and a double bed that can be converted into two single beds. All suites will be equipped with a minibar, refrigerator, interactive TV, safe, fresh fruit, and waffle-weave bathrobes and slippers. Higher-category suites will also offer luxury extras such as Illy espresso machines, canapé service, and fresh flowers.
The Star Seeker is currently under construction in Portugal, and its inaugural voyage will be a transatlantic crossing from Malaga to Miami, scheduled for January 2026. After a christening ceremony in Miami, the ship will begin its adventure in the Caribbean, then continue along the western coast of the United States to Alaska, where it will operate throughout the summer season. Subsequently, the Star Seeker will head to Japan and Southeast Asia, revisiting the company’s most beloved itineraries. Moreover, Windstar has already announced the launch of a sister ship, the Star Explorer, scheduled for December 2026.
Final rendering of Star Seeker and Star Explorer
With the Star Seeker and Star Explorer, Windstar Cruises reaffirms its commitment to offering exclusive and luxurious journeys, redefining the concept of cruising with innovative design and high-level services. The ship is set to become a benchmark for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience at sea.
The entire fleet will thus benefit from a profound rejuvenation and a new class of ships that fully embrace Windstar’s guiding philosophy, while offering a completely new onboard lifestyle concept and interior and exterior design. These elements are expertly integrated into the fleet, representing a significant addition that aligns with the brand and the cruise concept that the company has developed over many years.
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