Windstar’s Star Seeker: A New Era of Small-Ship Luxury
The wait is finally over. After three decades, Windstar Cruises has introduced its first new-build vessel—and Star Seeker is making waves in the small luxury cruise space. Christened in Miami on January 15, 2026, this intimate 224-guest yacht represents an exciting evolution for the award-winning cruise line.
An Intimate All-Suite Experience
Star Seeker accommodates just 224 guests in 112 suites, making it one of the most intimate vessels at sea. What sets this ship apart? All but ten suites feature either a full private veranda or floor-to-ceiling infinity window —meaning nearly every guest enjoys expansive ocean views and natural light throughout their journey.
The ship introduces two stunning Horizon Owner’s Suites, luxurious 548-square-foot accommodations featuring wrap-around balconies that add 248 square feet of outdoor space. These aft-facing suites can connect to adjacent rooms, making them perfect for multigenerational families or groups celebrating special occasions.
For those seeking something unique, 30 infinity suites feature large floor-to-ceiling windows that slide down halfway from the top , allowing guests to enjoy fresh sea breezes without leaving their room.
Windstar DNA with Modern Sophistication
While Star Seeker was originally designed as an expedition vessel and acquired from Mystic Invest, Windstar has thoroughly reimagined the ship to reflect the line’s signature casual elegance. The design emphasizes big, comfortable outdoor spaces and indoor venues filled with natural light.
Guests will find familiar Windstar touches throughout:
- The iconic Watersports Platform, turning the ocean into a personal playground for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling right from the yacht
- An open bridge policy, allowing guests to visit the captain and watch the world unfold
- Ocean-inspired interiors with soft blues and natural tones that create a serene, tranquil atmosphere
Culinary Excellence
Star Seeker offers three restaurants onboard, all included in the cruise fare. Amphora serves as the main dining room for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while Star Bar and Grill provides casual poolside dining.
The new highlight? Basil + Bamboo, Windstar’s complimentary Mediterranean-Asian fusion restaurant that replaces Cuadro 44 on the fleet. This fresh dining concept delivers globally inspired flavors that become part of the travel story guests will share long after disembarking.
Going Where Big Ships Can’t
Star Seeker features an ice-strengthened hull designed for operations in polar regions, opening up extraordinary itinerary possibilities. The ship’s small size allows access to ports that larger vessels simply cannot reach—including the ability to dock in Venice, something big ships are no longer allowed to do.
Where Star Seeker Is Sailing
The yacht’s inaugural season focuses on the Caribbean, calling on both marquee ports and small islands that larger ships can’t reach, including Îles des Saintes, Bequia, Mayreau, and Pigeon Island.
But the real excitement comes with what’s ahead:
- Summer 2026: Alaska—a destination Windstar hasn’t offered since 2023
- Fall/Winter 2026-2027: Japan and Southeast Asia
- Multiple repositioning options for clients seeking longer voyages
Sustainability Meets Luxury
Star Seeker incorporates tier III NOx-rated Rolls Royce engines, pump jet thrusters, shore power connectivity, and advanced wastewater treatment systems meeting the most stringent global standards. Windstar proves that environmental responsibility and luxury can coexist beautifully.
Why Your Clients Will Love Star Seeker
This yacht is perfect for clients who:
- Want to avoid crowds and experience intimate, personalized service
- Seek culturally immersive experiences in ports inaccessible to larger ships
- Appreciate exceptional cuisine as part of their travel experience
- Value spacious accommodations with outdoor living space
- Prefer an active, experiential style of cruising
As Windstar’s Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava notes, Star Seeker is ideal for “an active traveler that wants experiential, culturally immersive, really good cuisine”.
Looking Ahead
Star Seeker’s identical sister ship, Star Explorer, debuts in December 2026 and will operate year-round in Europe and the Mediterranean. Together, these vessels expand Windstar’s ability to offer unique itineraries across the globe while maintaining the intimate atmosphere the line is known for.