Windstar sailing ship fleet to get major upgrade and refurbishment through 2026

Windstar Cruises has announced a multi-million-dollar redesign and update refurbishment project for its trio of classic sailing yachts, Wind Star, Wind Spirit and Wind Surf.

The multi-year project is already underway, with Wind Star due to soon complete phase one of her renovations.

The project encompasses a full redesign of all public spaces with new layouts, furniture, wall and floor coverings, lighting, and custom art, according to the cruise line.

Guest staterooms, Premium Suites, and Owner’s Suites will also be fully refurbished with new furniture, interactive televisions, and an updated interior look.

“Our sailing ships are beloved by Windstar guests,” said Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises. “Being on the ship under sail is unforgettable and brings an element of freedom and romance to every voyage.”

Wind Star is currently in Lisbon, being made ready to welcome guests onboard after her drydock, the second and more comprehensive phase will include refurbishing her staterooms and dining venues in 2026.

Wind Spirit will be fully remodelled and complete her renovations in 2025, while Wind Surf will be refurbished in two phases through 2024 and 2026.

“This multi-year, multi- million-dollar initiative is all about providing guests with updated spaces that inspire relaxation, foster connection, and offer multifunctional needs of an intimate sized sailing yacht,” said Stijn Creupelandt, Vice President of Hotel Operations and Product Development at Windstar.

“Spending time on our yachts is all about moments of connection, whether that be guest to guest or guest to crew, and we want to make sure our spaces reflect that desire,” he added.

Wind Star Refurbishment Phase One:

Lobby – Opening up the space creates a more expansive reception area with added seating and expanded retail space.

Lounge – A redesign of the layout gives the ship’s main lounge a living room-like ambiance. New furniture, lighting and finishes enhance the area for daytime relaxation and evening entertainment.

Spa and Fitness Center – The World Spa by Windstar and gym have been designed with all new finishes, color palettes, and new state-of-the-art equipment.

Pool Deck – The pool deck has been expanded with removal of the skylight, adding in a new pool and jacuzzi, and extending the pool bar. New sofas for lounging, colorful poufs, ottomans, and chairs have been added around the pool. There are also new speakers and lighting, and fauna and greenery around the pool bar.

Artwork – Windstar partnered with Fountainhead Arts in Miami to source a curated collection of artworks for all three yachts. All are specially commissioned for Windstar with a common theme around the convergence of nature, organic materials, and yachting.

Technology – New, larger televisions in every cabin will feature curated content and movies, and the line’s Wayfinder application. Additional WiFi access points will provide a better connection to Starlink internet.

Updates planned for guest staterooms, the main dining room Amphora, and lunch/breakfast restaurant Veranda will occur in Phase 2.

“The design inspiration really developed from the yachts themselves,” said Jessica Payne, Windstar’s manager of interior design. “I studied classic and modern yacht architecture to develop the sophisticated design foundation, and then went on to add pops of fun and peeks of relief inspired by our sails, the sea, the cities we visit, and our guests.”

“Stepping into the lobby as you embark is about feeling a sense of stepping onto your own private yacht but experiencing the service of a luxury boutique hotel,” she added.

The Windstar sailing fleet was last updated in 2011 and 2012. Although more than 30 years old, the vintage sailing cruise ships are hugely popular among passengers.