Windstar Cruises Celebrates the Marquesas Islands
In 2024, Windstar Cruises embarked on journeys to the Marquesas Islands, a remote paradise in the South Pacific that received wide international recognition last July with its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
To mark this significant event, Windstar Cruises launched two celebratory cruises set to sail on September 26, 2024, and March 27, 2025. During the September celebratory cruise, departing from Papeete on a 14-day journey, Windstar’s French Polynesian representative, Hironui Johnston, will be joined by the mayors of Ua Huka, Fatu Hiva, and Tahuata of the Marquesas Islands. They will speak about the process and journey to becoming recognized as a UNESCO site, discuss rāhui—a traditional community-based approach to resource management—explain why the mayors of the Marquesas Islands work together and the legends that inspire this cooperation, and share how they are educating the next generation to conserve and protect this destination.
Tahitian treasures itinerary
Fatu Hiva Tapa Port
Tuamotu Islands
Windstar has been sailing in French Polynesia for over 36 years, forging deep relationships and partnerships with local officials throughout the region, allowing the company to further expand its itineraries to include the remote Marquesas Islands, bringing the total number of islands visited in the South Pacific to eleven. Windstar’s year-round cruises bring the culture of French Polynesia on board, with a designated cultural ambassador for all departures and unique events included in all itineraries, such as the Bora Bora Celebration Destination Discovery Event—a private beach party featuring local performances, from music to fire dancing. Local food and drinks are highlighted on board, while shore excursions are curated and guided by locals.
The celebratory cruises will also feature hands-on workshops on topics like traditional crafts, Haka Manu (Bird Dance) lessons, and culinary demonstrations on how to prepare I’a Mito—the Marquesan version of poisson cru, a dish similar to ceviche—and Keukeu, a traditional goat dish with coconut milk. Professional photographers Pat and Rosemarie Keough will round out the programming with photography workshops designed to capture the island’s natural beauty and underwater life.
Bora Bora
Taiohae-Nuku-Hiva
Atuoa-Hiva-Oa-Marquesas
Papeete Society Islands
The Marquesas Islands have been recognized by UNESCO not only for their stunning landscapes and remote location but also for their rich culture. Stijn Creupelandt, Vice President of Hotel Operations for Windstar Cruises, expressed his honor in hosting the mayors of these incredible islands on board the Star Breeze for this unique celebration, highlighting how this recognition is a testament to their efforts to preserve their culture and environment.
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