What to Expect
Windstar continues to position itself as a small-ship, yacht-style luxury cruise line with a strong culinary focus (thanks to its James Beard Foundation partnership), relaxed atmosphere, and destination-immersive experiences.
SIGNATURE ON DECK BARBECUE
Windstar’s Signature On Deck Barbecue remains one of its most beloved traditions and is still offered once per voyage, weather and port permitting.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
- A 5‑star buffet-style gala held outdoors on the pool deck.
- Asian-style suckling pig carved to order.
- Grilled lobster tail, jerk-marinated chicken drumsticks, and the fresh catch of the day prepared by the executive chef.
- Seafood paella cooked live on deck.
- A wide selection of salads, sides, desserts, and international specialties.
- After dinner, the crew performs their famous line-dancing show, a long-standing Windstar tradition.
NOTES
- This event is weather-dependent.
- On the Star Class ships (Star Breeze, Star Legend, Star Pride), the expanded deck space often enhances the experience.
- On sailing yachts, the ambiance is especially unique under the sails.
CRUISE FARES INCLUDE
Windstar offers two fare types: Cruise Only and All-Inclusive. The list below reflects what is included in all Windstar fares, with notes where applicable.
ALWAYS INCLUDED
- Champagne welcome reception
- Signature Sail Away to Vangelis’ “1492: Conquest of Paradise”
- Signature Onboard Barbecue & crew show (weather/port permitting)
- Local performances onboard (varies by region)
- Open Bridge access with opportunities to learn about sailing from the Captain or officers (subject to conditions)
- Ocean views from all staterooms and suites
- James Beard Foundation culinary program, including:
- Cooking demonstrations
- Menus and recipes created by JBF chefs
- All meals in all venues, including:
- Amphora (main dining)
- Veranda (casual dining)
- Candles (outdoor steakhouse)
- 24‑hour room service
- All non‑alcoholic beverages, including:
- Specialty coffees
- Teas
- Soft drinks
- Watersports Platform access with complimentary equipment:
- Kayaks
- Paddleboards
- Water trampoline
- Snorkel gear
- And more (Not available in Alaska; weather/port dependent)
CULINARY & MARKET EXPERIENCES
- Market tours with the chef to source local ingredients (available in most regions)
- Destination-inspired menus and regional specialties
ALL-INCLUSIVE UPGRADE
Windstar’s All-In Package adds:
- Unlimited beer, wine & cocktails
- Unlimited Wi-Fi (one device at a time)
- All gratuities This is typically $89 per guest, per day and is often a strong value compared to purchasing items individually.
ADDITIONAL NOTES & REGIONAL VARIATIONS
ALASKA
- Watersports Platform is not available.
- Only Signature Expeditions operate from the platform (kayaking & Zodiac tours led by onboard naturalists).
LOCAL PERFORMANCES
- Offered in most regions, especially:
- Tahiti
- Greece
- Caribbean
- Mediterranean
CHILDREN
- Windstar does not accommodate children under 8 years old.
DRESS CODE
- Resort casual; no formal nights.
- Candles and Amphora request smart casual attire.
