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For more
information visit Windstar
Sailing
under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180º From
Ordinary," Windstar was created in the mid-1980's with the
vision to offer an alternative to the typical cruise or resort
vacation. The Windstar passenger sees the world from a romantic
sailing ship with luxurious accommodations, a casual yet elegant
atmosphere, and exquisite service and cuisine.
In late 1986, the first commercial sailing vessel built in 60 years
slipped out of a French dry-dock in Le Havre. Although the towering
sails echoed a bygone era of explorers, the msy Wind Star, with its
sleek lines and computerized controls, was revolutionary in concept
and design.
Windstar's ships are officially motor-sail-yachts (msy), but
the designation belies the vessels' unique rigging. Unfurling in two
minutes at the push of a button, billowing white sails reach to the
sky. All functions are operated from the bridge by computer
micro-chips and navigational devices. The unusual
"open-bridge" operation allows guests to drop by and
acquaint themselves with the veteran captains and officers who
demonstrate the ships' intriguing capabilities to modern day
explorers.
The 148-passenger Wind Star was joined by sister ships the msy Wind
Song in 1987, and msy Wind Spirit in 1988. A new era in luxury
cruising was now being pioneered by Windstar Cruises. Nearly a
decade later in 1998, the 312-passenger msy Wind Surf was acquired
by Windstar. Sailing originally as Club Med I, the Wind Surf was
built in 1990 in the same shipyard to strikingly similar
specifications as her sister ships, making her a perfect match for
the four fleet family.
Windstar's unique concept of sailing has led the cruise industry in
the luxury small ship, casual attire, and alternative dining arenas.
Pioneering and refining these concepts has earned Windstar an
excellent reputation and market niche, winning the allegiance of a
new generation of contemporary cruise vacationers, one-third of whom
are first-time cruisers.
Teak decking, rich wood interiors, an attentive service staff,
intimate surroundings, eclectic artwork, exceptional signature
cuisine featuring both light and vegetarian menu selections, and an
extensive wine list are some of the extraordinary elements which
have become synonymous with Windstar. Features unique to the Wind
Surf include 31 deluxe suites, 2 Bridge Deck suites, The Yacht Club,
Degrees (formerly The Bistro), The Terrace Bar for small intimate
getaways and the nearly 10,000 square foot WindSpa offering a full
array of spa treatments, consultative, health and fitness programs.
Passengers are cradled in comfort as all staterooms and suites offer
ocean views, sitting area, new LCD flatscreen TV, DVD, CD player,
iPod Nanos and Bose SoundDocks systems, safe, mini-bar/refrigerator,
international direct-dial phones, bathroom with luxurious pampering
toiletries, hair dryer, plush terry cloth robes, and an abundance of
closet space. The library on board stocks an array of international
newspapers, books and games, as well as a multi-media selection of
more than 500 DVD titles and compact discs available for
complimentary check-out.
Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, Windstar ships exude a
private-yacht-like atmosphere creating camaraderie and lasting
friendships between fellow sailors. Every day aboard Windstar brings
the promise of new horizons and harbors to explore.
An interesting mix of shore excursions and complimentary water
sports activities are available at each destination. Passengers may
find themselves slicing through Caribbean waters aboard an actual
America's Cup racing yacht, or exploring archaeological ruins in
Greece, the "Cradle of Civilization." Water buffs can
enjoy complimentary water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and
kayaking from the ship's aft Water Sports Platform.
The company's cruise vacations offer a sea-side window on the world,
combining the refinement of a luxury hotel with a moveable feast of
cultural experiences.
Seattle-based Windstar Cruises operates the 312-passenger Wind Surf
and 148- passenger Wind Star and Wind Spirit. The three sailing
yachts cruise to over 47 countries worldwide offering an affordable
luxury vacation.
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