Star Explorer

Star Explorer will join the Windstar Cruises fleet in December 2026, becoming the sister ship to Star Seeker. She will carry just 224 guests in 112 suites and spend much of her first full year sailing in Europe.

Star Explorer accommodates a maximum of 224 guests, supported by approximately 135 crew members. Her relatively small guest capacity is central to the Windstar experience, creating a more intimate atmosphere than you’ll typically find aboard larger luxury cruise ships.

Star Explorer is new to Windstar Cruises, but the vessel itself is being extensively transformed rather than built from scratch. Originally constructed as a small luxury ship, she is undergoing a major renovation before entering service with Windstar, with redesigned suites, restaurants and public spaces created specifically for the brand.

Yes. Star Explorer has 112 suites and no interior cabins. More than 90% of the accommodation features either a private balcony or an Infinity window, while larger categories include Classic Suites, Deluxe Suites and the impressive Horizon Owner’s Suites.

Not as standard in quite the same way as some ultra-luxury cruise lines. Your Windstar fare includes accommodation, all meals in the ship’s dining venues and non-alcoholic beverages, while alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities can be added through Windstar’s all-inclusive package.

Yes. Star Explorer has an outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool on the upper decks, together with an additional forward-facing whirlpool. There are also plenty of open deck areas for relaxing outside when the weather allows.

Yes. The World Spa by Windstar offers massages, facials and other treatments alongside a sauna and relaxation facilities. Star Explorer also has a dedicated Fitness Center equipped with Technogym equipment and free weights, plus a separate Motion Studio for organised classes.

Yes. Star Explorer features Windstar’s signature watersports Marina at the stern of the ship. When local conditions permit, guests can access the water directly from the yacht and make use of complimentary equipment including kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling gear.

Star Explorer will spend much of 2027 in Europe, with itineraries across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Her programme includes some particularly unusual small-ship experiences, including sailing into Venice and along the Thames to London, as well as voyages incorporating European rivers and waterways.

Star Explorer and Star Seeker are sister ships and offer a very similar onboard experience, with the same 224-guest capacity, suite-led accommodation and many of the same restaurants and facilities. For most guests choosing between them, we’d therefore recommend looking first at the itinerary, departure date and fare, rather than selecting one ship over the other.