Star Seeker: Windstar Cruises
All-Suite Luxury Small Ship Cruising
Introduction
Windstar Cruises is set to expand its fleet of small, intimate luxury ships with the highly anticipated Star Seeker, debuting in 2026. As the first newly built ship for Windstar in over 25 years, Star Seeker is designed to offer a refined yet adventurous experience, bringing guests closer to the world’s most breathtaking destinations while providing exceptional service, spacious suites, and immersive cultural experiences.
Here’s everything you need to know about Windstar’s newest small-ship
Ship Overview: Luxury on a More Intimate Scale
Star Seeker is one of two new ships that Windstar will introduce in 2026, alongside its sister ship, Star Explorer. These vessels will feature all-suite accommodations, an elegant modern design, and an expanded range of destinations.
Key Specifications
- Gross Tonnage: Approx. 12,300 GT
- Length: 525 feet (160 meters)
- Guest Capacity: 224 passengers
- Crew Capacity: 135 crew members
- Shipyard: WestSEA Shipyard, Portugal
- Maiden Voyage: Late 2025 / Early 2026
- Power Source: Energy-efficient hybrid propulsion technology
With a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.7, Star Seeker ensures highly personalised service, making it ideal for those seeking an intimate, luxurious, and immersive cruising experience.
Windstar Canapes
Windstar Open Bridge
Onboard Features & Experiences
Spacious, Light-Filled Accommodations
All staterooms aboard Star Seeker are suites, designed to provide a spacious and elegant retreat at sea. Guests can expect:
- Infinity Suites – Floor-to-ceiling windows that open, offering an immersive ocean view experience.
- Veranda Suites – Featuring private outdoor spaces for a more exclusive feel.
- Star Suites – Larger suites with separate bedroom and lounge areas for extra comfort.
- Triple-Share Interior Suites – A new offering for Windstar, catering to small groups or families travelling together.
Relaxation & Enrichment
Star Seeker is designed for slow, immersive travel, featuring elegant spaces for relaxation and enrichment.
- Open Bridge Policy – Guests can visit the ship’s bridge for a behind-the-scenes look at ship operations.
- The Library – A peaceful reading space with curated books and comfortable seating.
- Pool & Whirlpool – A tranquil outdoor area perfect for lounging and taking in the views.
- Fitness & Motion Studio – A modern gym offering group classes and personal training options.
Dining & Culinary Experiences
Windstar is known for its high-quality, locally inspired cuisine, and Star Seeker will continue this tradition with an exciting mix of fine dining and casual options.
Basil + Bamboo – A New Signature Culinary Experience
Windstar Cruises has introduced Basil + Bamboo, a brand-new complimentary specialty restaurant that blends Mediterranean and Asian flavors. This venue replaces Cuadro 44 across the Windstar fleet and will debut as the new signature specialty restaurant aboard Star Seeker when she launches in December 2025.
Guests can expect a curated menu of global flavors, featuring:
- Miso Soup & Tuna Tartare – A fusion of fresh seafood and delicate umami flavors.
- Sashimi, Nigiri & Maki Samplers – Offering Japanese-style precision with premium ingredients.
- Miso Black Cod with Pea Purée – A rich, buttery favorite from Asia’s finest kitchens.
- Jamon Ibérico de Bellota – A nod to the Mediterranean’s world-renowned delicacies.
This complimentary dining experience will add a sophisticated new culinary element to Windstar’s already renowned onboard dining.
Other Dining Options on Star Seeker
- Amphora – The ship’s main fine-dining restaurant, offering a rotating menu of regionally inspired dishes.
- Star Grill – A casual, open-air eatery featuring grilled specialties and fresh seafood.
- Specialty Restaurant (Yet to be Announced) – Windstar has teased a new culinary concept for Star Seeker, details of which will be revealed closer to launch.
With the addition of Basil + Bamboo, Star Seeker’s dining experience will offer an even more refined and globally inspired menu, making it a standout choice for food lovers. Guests can also enjoy complimentary 24-hour room service.
Windstar Amphora
Windstar Star Grille
Destinations & Inaugural Sailings
Star Seeker’s itineraries will take guests to some of the most sought-after destinations, with a focus on small ports, immersive cultural experiences, and extended stays.
Inaugural Voyage & Early Sailings
- Maiden Voyage: Málaga (Spain) to Miami – November 2025 (16 Days)
- Key Ports: Málaga, Cádiz, Funchal (Madeira), Bermuda, Miami
Regular Itineraries
- Alaska (Summer 2026) – Sailing through the glacier-filled fjords and wildlife-rich landscapes of Alaska.
- Japan (Spring & Autumn 2026) – Exploring Tokyo, Kyoto, and other culturally rich destinations in Japan.
- Caribbean & Panama Canal (Winter 2026-27) – Offering warm-weather escapes with a focus on small island experiences.
Final Thoughts
Windstar’s Star Seeker is set to elevate small-ship luxury cruising, offering intimate, personalised service, spacious suites, and immersive destinations. With its highly curated itineraries and elegant onboard experience, it’s the perfect choice for travellers who want a more refined, immersive, and relaxed cruising experience.
Planning to sail on Star Seeker? Its inaugural season is expected to be in high demand, so booking early
Call 1300 241 705 today to start planning your cruise or to learn more about this amazing ship!