The boutique luxury cruise line Windstar Cruises is making waves in a completely unexpected way, this time not on the ocean, but in the show ring. Kicking off the New Year with flair, Windstar has entered the prestigious world of equestrian show jumping with a bold move that underscores its commitment to doing things 180 degrees from ordinary. In partnership with rising Grand Prix rider Kelli Cruciotti Vanderveen and Serenity Farm Show Stables, Windstar Cruises has introduced a world-class show horse named Windstar, marking the brand as the first-ever cruise line to venture into the competitive equestrian space.
A Unique Collaboration Born from Prestige and Passion
Windstar Cruises' foray into the equestrian world is far more than a branding stunt. It's a thoughtfully conceived collaboration aimed at celebrating excellence and discipline, values mirrored both at sea and in the show ring. Windstar the horse was officially christened on December 25, 2024, signifying a symbolic and strategic commitment to nurturing a future champion. In collaboration with Serenity Farm Show Stables—one of the top training facilities for hunters, jumpers, and equitation in North America—the horse is now on a dedicated training path toward international competition, with a particular focus on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
This alliance introduces a fresh and authentic narrative in luxury branding, one that merges the high-adrenaline world of international equestrian sports with the serene elegance of boutique cruising. According to Windstar Cruises' President Christopher Prelog, this initiative is about "bringing awareness to the travel community about what it takes to train a champion show-jumping horse." That level of insight and transparency mirrors the cruise line's reputation for meticulous attention to detail, both onboard and now, impressively, in sport horse development.
Rising Star Meets Unprecedented Support
The partnership places Kelli Cruciotti Vanderveen in the spotlight, a formidable Grand Prix competitor currently ranked among the top 300 riders globally. Known for her poise and competitive edge, Kelli has already secured a position as one of the youngest champions in American show jumping. Her home base at Serenity Farm Show Stables in Florida is a powerhouse of elite training and competition, making it the ideal foundation for Windstar the horse to rise through the ranks.
What makes this collaboration even more compelling is its authenticity. Kelli speaks with enthusiasm about the union, saying, "Windstar Cruises is such a unique company with a fantastic focus on luxury and fun. When they approached us to blend their brand with the prestige of the show jumping industry, I knew this was going to be a game changer." As she leads Windstar toward the 2028 Olympics, her journey offers a narrative that is equally aspirational for travellers and sports enthusiasts alike.
2025 Competitions and Olympic Aspirations
Windstar the horse is set to make its competitive debut in 2025 at some of the most high-profile equestrian events across the United States. These include the Winter Equestrian Festival, World Equestrian Center, Tryon International, The Hampton Classic, and the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. Each event offers a platform for Windstar to gain valuable experience and exposure, gradually building the credentials required to qualify for Olympic contention.
This strategic positioning further demonstrates how Windstar Cruises is extending its philosophy of immersive, elite experiences beyond the deck and into arenas where dedication and grace define excellence. It’s not just a sponsorship—it's a full-circle narrative of luxury, resilience, and ambition.
As Windstar the horse gallops toward greatness, Windstar Cruises continues to redefine the travel experience by staying true to its ethos of delivering adventures that are 180° from ordinary.
Whether you are drawn to the elegance of the equestrian world or the thrill of discovering new destinations by sea, you can find your perfect journey through our Cruise Finder. Every voyage is thoughtfully curated to inspire connection, wonder, and unforgettable moments.
Start Your Journey Beyond Ordinary
Ready to set sail on a journey that transcends the usual? Discover how Windstar Cruises continues to expand the boundaries of travel and luxury. To learn more about upcoming cruise experiences or to speak with a travel expert, contact us today. Join us as we continue to break new ground—on the sea and in the arena.
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