Windstar Cruises is taking a fresh approach to small-ship travel, introducing a new style of cruising that blends river and ocean journeys into one seamless experience.
At the center of this concept is the upcoming Star Explorer, a 224-guest all-suite yacht set to debut in December 2026. Designed specifically for this hybrid travel model, the ship will be capable of navigating both inland waterways and open seas, allowing guests to sail directly from city-center rivers to coastal regions and islands without changing ships.
A New Way to Cruise
This new concept is aimed at experienced river cruisers who have already explored Europe’s most popular waterways and are looking for something different.
By combining rivers, coastlines, and smaller ports in a single itinerary, Windstar is opening access to destinations that are often out of reach for both large ocean ships and traditional river vessels.
The result is a more continuous, immersive journey without the usual logistics of switching ships, repacking, or navigating transfers.
Where Will Star Explorer Sail?
The ship’s first itineraries in 2027 highlight exactly what makes this concept stand out:
Impressionist France (10 nights): Sailing from Bordeaux to London, combining the Seine and Thames with stops in St. Malo and access to D-Day beaches
Northern Spain & Portugal (8 nights): A wine-focused journey linking Bordeaux with Spain’s coast and Portugal’s Douro region
Moroccan Markets & Iberian Icons (8 nights): Blending river access to Seville with a broader mix of Iberian and Moroccan ports
Ireland Circumnavigation (10 nights): From Cork’s river port to Ireland’s rugged coastline of cliffs and castles
Expanding the Small-Ship Experience
Beyond Star Explorer, Windstar is already offering similar itineraries across its fleet, combining rivers, canals, and coastal routes.
From tulip-season sailings in Holland and Belgium to longer voyages in Canada and Southeast Asia, the cruise line is clearly leaning into a growing demand for more intimate, destination-focused travel.
Looking Ahead
With the launch of Star Explorer, Windstar is positioning itself at the forefront of a new cruise trend, one that blurs the lines between river and ocean travel.
For travelers who love small ships but want more variety, fewer crowds, and deeper access to destinations, this could be the next big evolution in cruising.
