Comtel's Acquisition of NEC Cruise: What It Means for the Industry's Future

Wind Star Joins Star Breeze: Year-Round Sailing Adventures Await in French Polynesia

Update Wind Star Joins Star Breeze: A New Era in Tahiti Cruising In a significant move for cruise enthusiasts, Windstar Cruises has officially announced that starting in March 2027, the Wind Star will join the Star Breeze in offering year-round sailings in breathtaking French Polynesia. This marks the company's most comprehensive deployment in the South Pacific to date, underscoring its commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences. A Closer Look at the Dreamy Itineraries As two luxurious ships set sail alongside each other, guests can choose from a variety of itineraries designed to showcase the natural beauty and rich culture of the region. The Wind Star will operate the stunning seven-night "Dreams of Tahiti" itinerary, featuring weekly departures every Monday. Uniquely, this route includes a stop at Raiatea, a hidden gem often overlooked by other cruise lines. On the other hand, the Star Breeze takes travelers on longer voyages that venture into more secluded locales such as the Tuamotus, Marquesas, and even further to Fiji and the Cook Islands. These longer trips can be mastered into "Star Collector Voyages" lasting up to 21 days. Exciting New Offerings for Travelers Windstar promises exciting new features for 2027. For starters, they will offer the most cruise departures in Tahiti compared to any other line, with both yachts sailing full-time in these paradisiacal waters. An innovative "Early Goodbye" option will allow guests to arrive in Papeete the night before departure, ensuring smooth connections for same-evening flights to LAX. Additionally, guests will enjoy simplified cruise and hotel packages that facilitate stays in luxurious overwater bungalows, featuring flexible flight options. The newly introduced AquaBanas at the yacht’s marina provide private floating lounges for a more relaxing experience on the water. A Deeper Cultural Connection and Unique Experiences While cruising through these enchanting islands, guests will be invited to participate in the Destination Discovery Event: Polynesian Feast and Fire. This immersive evening features Tahitian fire dancing, delectable island cuisine, and live music set against a starlit sky. Highlighting cultural immersion, a Cultural Ambassador will provide classes on ukulele playing, flower crown making, and diving into Tahitian language and traditions. Moreover, there will be cooking demonstrations, shore excursions led by local guides, and a variety of water sports activities allowing guests to engage deeply with the local culture and environment. Best Fares and Booking Benefits For those eager to begin their tropical adventure, Windstar encourages potential travelers to reserve their spots by October 31 to lock in the best fares and suite selections. Additional incentives include up to $200 in onboard credit, along with Windstar’s All-In package. Earlybirds who pay in full at the time of booking stand to save an extra 5 percent on their trip, which can be combined with other offers, ensuring maximum value. As the Wind Star returns to its beloved waters, providing unforgettable experiences and educational opportunities, it's clear that the allure of French Polynesia has only been strengthened. These offerings are sure to attract not just seasoned cruisers but also those embarking on their first journey to these idyllic islands. So, whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to the world of cruising, keep an eye on your calendars and prepare to sail away into this tropical paradise!