Windstar Cruises Completes Fleet-wide Renovation

Small-ship luxury cruise line finishes its $18 million refurbishment on all three sailing yachts.

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Jan 16, 2013, 12:30 ET

SEATTLE, Jan. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- With the completion of Wind Spirit's dry dock on December 22^nd, Windstar Cruises' $18 million fleet-wide renovation project is now finished. The project, which began in December of 2011, encompassed all three sailing yachts in a stem-to-stern renovation that enhanced public spaces, dining venues, staterooms and suites, as well as new sails.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130116/SF43601)

The 148-passenger Wind Spirit, the last of the fleet to undergo refurbishment, was updated with new furnishings, upholstery, art, lighting, wall coverings, carpeting, ceiling finishes, window treatments, and floor coverings during the month-long renovation. The design palette, staying true to the other two yachts, combine sand and marine colors that contrast elegantly with the warmth of wood finishes, elevating the look and feel to stylish luxury at sea. AmphorA, the fleet's new fine-dining experience featuring international cuisine, took the place of The Restaurant. The yacht also received enhancements in The Lounge, Casino, Reception, Pool Bar, and Library.

Wind Surf, the company's 310-passenger flagship, completed its renovation in early December. Wind Star, the sister yacht to Wind Spirit, was fully renovated in April of last year. The staterooms and suites of all three yachts were refurbished in spring of 2012.

"With the completion of the renovation, we are truly delivering on our promise of a unique luxury cruise experience that feels like your own private yacht," said Hans Birkholz, CEO of Windstar Cruises. "So far our guest feedback has been excellent; our guests are just as excited as we are to have the fleet completed."

June Baker, a recent guest onboard Wind Surf agrees. "I sailed last year with Wind Surf¸ and, this time, you could really see the changes. Everything was so new and fresh," she said. "We had the best time onboard, it was my husband's first time with Windstar Cruises and it was just the best vacation. We are already planning our next cruise."

To celebrate the completion of the renovation, Windstar Cruises threw a party onboard the Wind Surf's Flavors of the Caribbean voyage in December. The guests onboard the company's premier Caribbean itinerary were treated to a spectacular fireworks show in Le Marin, Martinique, provided by the Martinique Tourism Authority. In addition, Birkholz and other Windstar executives sailed on board the newly renovated yacht, mixing and mingling with guests and collecting initial feedback.

"We will continue to develop the best vacation experience possible on board our unique sailing yachts," said Birkholz. "2013 is looking bright for Windstar, with most of the cruise industry focusing on bigger ships, we will continue to invest in small-ship opportunities and intimate yacht-style cruising."

To learn more about Windstar Cruises, please visit www.windstarcruises.com.

About Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and the ability to visit hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most treasured destinations. Carrying just 148 to 310 guests, the luxurious yachts of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. For more information including rates and itineraries, contact a travel professional or call Windstar at 800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at WindstarCruises.com. Windstar Cruises can also be followed on Windstar's Facebook and Twitter fan pages.

SOURCE Windstar Cruises