OVERVIEW OF WINDSTAR CRUISES

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Life on Windstar Cruises is relaxed. The largest vessel accommodates 310 passengers at capacity. Dinner attire is resort casual, no ties or gowns. There is so much deck space you never feel crowded. Let me alleviate any fears about the size of the ship. They are typically as long as two football fields with six decks. You will find all the services onboard a Windstar ship you would expect to have - a spa, casino, gift shop, fitness center, doctors office, and a shore excursion desk.

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Windstar Cruises has three yachts (referred to as Wind ships) that have full sailing capabilities but engine powered as needed, and three former Seabourn power yachts (referred to as Star ships). All have nearly the exact amenities and features including the Watersports Platform.

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Speaking of the Watersports Platform, you will find this ultra-popular feature on every Windstar yacht. this platform opens to the ocean and you are free to check out any water toy and go for it. Snorkel gear, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, catamarans, trampoline, floating mat, and the speedboat will take you waterskiing or tubing. It's all included, not a penny extra.

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Each evening begins with Port Talk in the Lounge on the Main Deck. This is a chance to relax with a before dinner drink and learn about the upcoming port - excursions options, recommendations for beaches, shops, dining, cabs, walks, etc. This lasts right up until the restaurants open. On the second night of the cruise Port Talk is preceded by the Captain's Welcome Champagne Reception.

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There are no formal shows on Windstar, but plenty of music and dancing. We had a band that performed in the Lounge every evening before Port Talk and again at 9:15pm. We also had the talented duo Mellow Yellow perform in the Compass Rose during the same time periods but played past midnight many nights based on the size of the crowd.

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There is a Daily Drink Special for $7.75, plus gratuity: Bon Voyage, Caribbean Sunset, Harvey Wallbanger, Fun on the Beach, Planter's Punch, Blue Bayou, and Mojitos Madness.

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No ship, particularly not a yacht, is complete without a spa. Windstar is no exception with the WindSpa. And there are daily spa specials. And of course there is a casino with table games and slots.

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If you want to feel like this is your own yacht, just drop by the Bridge. Windstar has an Open Bridge Policy with very few exceptions. One of my favorite events is the Sail Away from every port. The Windstar tradition is to raise the sails one at a time set to dramatic music. Departure times vary on Windstar so you get to experience the full gamut of afternoon, sunset, and under the stars for the raising of the sail, pretty cool. It's a great time to grab your favorite beverage, have your camera ready, and pull up a table for a Sail Away look at your recently departed port as you sail into the sunset. Time to reflect on the many memories you created today. Cheers.