Windstar Cruises, known for its intimate and luxurious small ship experiences, has revealed an exciting first look at its brand-new ship, the Star Seeker. This 224-guest vessel, set to debut in January 2026, is designed to offer a unique blend of elegance, comfort, and cutting-edge amenities. With 112 spacious suites, most featuring private verandas or floor-to-ceiling infinity windows, Star Seeker is poised to elevate the cruising experience for discerning travellers.
Windstar’s Star Seeker will feature 112 suites, designed with relaxation and tranquillity in mind. According to Stijn Creupelandt, vice president of hotel operations at Windstar Cruises, the suites are "designed to be an oasis for relaxation." The decor reflects a soothing colour palette inspired by the sea, sky, and landscapes, with light wood and calming hues of blue, green, and natural brown. This design approach creates a serene atmosphere that promises to be a haven for guests.
Among the suite offerings, the Horizon Owner's Suites stand out as the pinnacle of luxury. Located at the aft of the ship on deck 7, these suites feature wrap-around balconies with breathtaking views, ideal for evening cocktails or private dining. The Horizon Owner's Suites can also be combined with adjacent suites to accommodate multi-generational families, making them a versatile option for travellers seeking both luxury and space.
In addition to the Horizon Owner's Suites, Star Seeker offers a variety of other accommodation options. The ship will have 72 suites with large verandas and 30 infinity suites, a new concept for Windstar. These infinity suites feature large floor-to-ceiling windows that slide down halfway, allowing guests to enjoy refreshing sea breezes from the comfort of their rooms. All suites are designed with natural light in mind, ensuring guests can fully appreciate the stunning ocean views.
Star Seeker will offer five dining options, all included in Windstar's cruise fare, ensuring that guests can enjoy world-class cuisine without additional costs. The ship's public spaces and restaurants are designed with vibrant hues inspired by sunrises and sunsets, including warm yellows, golds, and oranges. This thoughtful design ensures a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort throughout the ship.
One of the standout features of Star Seeker is its innovative Watersports Platform, which allows guests to access the sea directly from the ship, transforming the ocean into an infinity pool. This unique feature is emblematic of Windstar's commitment to providing immersive and intimate experiences that bring guests closer to the natural beauty of their surroundings.
Star Seeker is currently under construction in Portugal, with its maiden voyage scheduled for early January 2026. The ship's inaugural journey will be a Transatlantic sailing from Malaga to Miami, followed by a christening event in Miami, where Windstar Cruises is headquartered. Following its christening, Star Seeker will embark on its first Caribbean voyage, with additional cruises planned in the Caribbean before heading up the West Coast of the United States for a summer season in Alaska.
After its Alaskan adventures, Star Seeker will sail to Japan, reviving Windstar's popular Japan itineraries before moving on to Southeast Asia. These itineraries will be first announced to Yacht Club members and travel advisors, giving them priority access to books. The general public will be able to book these exciting voyages starting in early September.
Windstar has also announced that Star Seeker will soon be joined by a sister ship, Star Explorer, set to debut in December 2026. This expansion reflects Windstar's commitment to offering unparalleled small ship cruising experiences to some of the world's most sought-after destinations.
With the introduction of Star Seeker, Windstar Cruises continues to set the standard for luxury small ship cruising. The ship's innovative design, luxurious accommodations, and thoughtfully curated itineraries offer a unique opportunity for travellers to explore the world in comfort and style. Whether you're looking to relax on a private veranda, dine in one of five world-class restaurants, or dive into the ocean from the Watersports Platform, Star Seeker promises an unforgettable cruising experience.
At S.W. Black Travel, we specialise in curating personalised boutique travel experiences tailored to your unique preferences. Whether you're planning to sail on Windstar's Star Seeker or explore other luxurious cruise options, our expert travel consultants are here to help you plan the perfect getaway. Get in touch with us to start planning your next adventure on the high seas.