Most lines that use the word "yacht" mean a small ship with yacht-like proportions. Windstar means it literally — Wind Star and Wind Spirit are true masted sailing vessels, carrying just 148 guests each, with an intimate, unstructured feel nothing else in the category quite replicates.
The Ships
Wind Star and Wind Spirit each carry 148 guests; Wind Surf carries somewhat more. All three are genuine sailing yachts, not motor vessels dressed up with yacht styling — the masts and sails are functional, not decorative.
What's Included
Dining, some beverages, and a watersports platform are included. Airfare, premium spirits, and most shore excursions are not — a more à la carte structure than the fully inclusive lines in this category.
Who This Line Is Actually For
Windstar is the pick for clients who want the smallest possible ship and an actual sailing experience — not just a small motor yacht dressed up in nautical language.
Best Time to Sail
Caribbean and Tahiti itineraries run best November through April; Mediterranean sailings peak May through October.
The Details That Matter Before You Book
Up to two bottles of wine or Champagne per cabin are allowed on embarkation day (three on sailings of 8 or more nights) — no beer or liquor, and any port-purchased spirits are held by security until the final night. Gratuities are available bundled into Windstar's optional All-Inclusive package, but are not automatically included in every base fare, so it's worth adding at time of booking. Dress code is resort casual fleetwide — collared shirts for dinner, no formal nights, no tuxedos required.
The One-Line Takeaway
Windstar is the right call when the sailing experience itself — not just the destination — is part of what a client wants from the trip.
Frequently Asked
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Are these ships really under sail?
Yes — Wind Star, Wind Spirit, and Wind Surf are genuine masted sailing yachts, among the only true sailing vessels in the luxury cruise category.
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Should I add the All-Inclusive package?
Worth considering if gratuities and beverages matter to the budget — they're not automatically bundled into the base fare.
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Is Windstar good for a honeymoon?
Yes — the small size and intimate, unstructured feel make it a popular choice for couples wanting something different from a traditional cruise.