Windstar Cruises is turning the tide on traditional Southeast Asia cruising with its bold and immersive new Southeast Asia program for 2026. With the highly anticipated debut of the all-suite Star Seeker, this isn't just another itinerary release—it's a complete reimagining of how small-ship travel can dive deeper into the cultures, landscapes, and histories of Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond. If you're someone who values authenticity, culinary adventure, and the kind of personal touch that comes only from yachts designed to go where the big ships can't, then Windstar's latest lineup might be the perfect match for your next voyage.
Windstar isn't following the same route as everyone else, and that's very intentional. Instead of the usual start-and-stop cruises that orbit around large cities like Singapore or Hong Kong, the 2026 program begins and ends directly in-country, with itineraries starting in places like Bangkok, Phuket, and Hanoi. That strategic approach allows travellers to make the most of their time ashore and immerse themselves in the cultural heartbeat of each region.
And that immersion is a major highlight. Star Seeker's smaller size gives it access to exclusive ports and riverside docking locations most cruise lines can't offer. That means you won’t be stuck transferring for hours from a far-off industrial port to see major sights. Instead, you can sail up the Mekong to the heart of Ho Chi Minh City or dock near the cultural pulse of Bangkok. Plus, Windstar delivers thoughtful extras like the Signature Beach Party at Ko Kood, a stopoff that’s as stunning as it is uncommon—available only to select small ships.
At the centre of Windstar's program are two meticulously designed voyages. The 10-day Vietnam, Cambodia, & Thailand itinerary is a Vietnam-intensive journey, boasting overnight stays in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, along with a fascinating day in Cambodia. Guests have the option to take a three-day excursion to the iconic Angkor Wat, turning a cruise into an epic journey through Khmer civilisation.
The second itinerary, an 11-day Thailand, Singapore, & Malaysia cruise, is just as rich, with six port calls across Thailand—including tranquil spots like Krabi and Ko Yao Noi—and an overnight stay in dazzling Singapore. This lineup is an excellent fit for travellers looking to explore Thailand beyond Bangkok, diving into the layered identities of its islands and cities.
For travellers craving more, Windstar makes it easy to upgrade their experience with pre- and post-cruise Cruise Tour packages. In Hanoi, join a street food tour and sip phin drip Vietnamese coffee between tai chi lessons and traditional puppet shows. Over in Chiang Mai, guests can partake in monk ceremonies, visit an elephant sanctuary, and wander through buzzing night markets sampling Northern Thai dishes like Khao Soi. These curated cultural extensions are more than a side trip—they're memory-makers.
Now, let’s say ten or eleven days just isn’t enough. Windstar has something for that too: Star Collector voyages that stitch together multiple itineraries into a seamless, extended journey. Ranging from 20 to 41 days, these back-to-back cruises cover enormous ground, including the impressive Tokyo-to-Phuket route that weaves East Asia and Southeast Asia into one remarkable voyage. And yes, daily laundry is complimentary, so go ahead and pack light—you'll have fresh outfits and incredible stories every step of the way.
What makes these longer sailings even more attractive is how they maintain an intimate atmosphere. You'll still enjoy Star Seeker’s signature yacht-like feel, personalised service, and immersive shore excursions while covering more of Asia than you'd thought possible in one go.
Windstar's newbuild Star Seeker is purpose-built to blend luxury with local connection. She features just 112 spacious suites, nearly all offering a private veranda or a floor-to-ceiling infinity window that opens to the breeze. It's the kind of thoughtful design that ensures you’ll never miss a golden sunrise over Halong Bay or the vivid hues of an island sunset in the Andaman Sea.
This new ship is also part of a broader evolution in how luxury cruising is done—with a strong emphasis on smaller crowds, deeper exploration, and elevated comfort. If you've cruised with Windstar before, you'll recognise the blend of casual elegance and destination immersion that defines their approach. If you're new to the brand, Star Seeker offers the perfect introduction.
These new itineraries mark an exciting shift for luxury travellers. Southeast Asia isn’t just a backdrop for sailing—it becomes the star of the show, with Windstar playing the perfect host. You won’t just breeze past landmarks; you’ll step inside temples, sip tea with locals, and take part in the rhythms of daily life. This is what small-ship cruising is all about: blending exploration, connection, and unforgettable comfort.
If you’re inspired by the idea of cruising to places that spark conversation and curiosity, now’s the time to explore more. Windstar’s Southeast Asia voyages deliver not just ports of call, but meaningful moments that invite you to linger.
To browse these immersive itineraries and compare options, use our Cruise Finder to discover what’s available. Whether you’re looking to book one of the core sailings or stretch your journey across multiple countries, you’ll find curated options with plenty of personalisation potential.
Windstar's Southeast Asia 2026 program is already generating buzz—and with good reason. These are itineraries that promise more than postcard views; they deliver stories worth telling. To begin planning your small-ship escape or speak with a cruise expert who can guide your choices, get in touch and let us help bring your Southeast Asia dream cruise to life.