Windstar Cruises has announced plans for a $250 million, multi-year initiative to renovate and lengthen its three Star Class cruise ships.
Beginning in fall 2019, the extensive undertaking will see each ship be cut to allow the installation of a new section that will lengthen each vessel by approximately 84 feet. The ships will still be small enough to navigate smaller ports and harbors.
The project will add 50 new suites featuring new suite categories and open floor plan configurations.
Other notable new guest amenities and accommodations in the planning phase include an expanded Veranda Restaurant to offer significantly more ocean-view seating; two brand new dining venues including an intimate, alternative dining restaurant and a casual barbecue space; reconfigured and elevated pool and hot tub; a reimagined and enlarged spa and fitness center; a new elevator mid-ship allowing for easy access to all decks; a new tender loading area located mid-ship and a pair of new 90-passenger tenders to ferry guests to port when ships are at anchor.
The enhancements will be made to Star Breeze, Star Legend and Star Pride in succession between October 2019 and November 2020, with work taking place at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Italy.
Increasing Windstar’s overall capacity by 24 percent, the new-look all-suite vessels will be able to accommodate up to 312 guests. The cruise line plans to hire additional crew members to maintain its 1.5:1 guest to hotel staff ratio.
The renovation also includes a comprehensive re-engine project for each ship, which Windstar called an “uncommon occurrence in the cruise industry.” Seven current engines will be removed in favor of four new, more environmentally-friendly engines running on cleaner fuel to reduce emissions impact.
“We are thrilled to announce the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative, a significant investment in the future of Windstar Cruises. This exciting initiative is our 180 degree from ordinary solution to add new capacity and major enhancements to the guest experience in a very time efficient manner,” said Windstar President John Delaney in a statement. “The initiative not only creates beautiful new suites and public spaces but we will also take the opportunity to re-engine the ships with a more fuel efficient and environmentally responsible propulsion system. This will be a true game-changer for Windstar and our small ship cruise experience.”
“This major investment is an efficient way to build on a winning brand that shows strong momentum and growth potential. Support for this exciting new initiative demonstrates our commitment to Windstar as an important part of the Xanterra portfolio,” added Andrew N. Todd, President and CEO of Xanterra Travel Collection.
Additional details regarding the initiative, including new onboard experiences and partnerships, will be announced in the future and made available on a dedicated microsite set to launch in 2019.
Additionally, Windstar recently partnered with UTrip to help guests plan shore excursions. It also announced extended voyages for the 2019-2020 season.
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