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Advice - Windstar Wind Surf Classic Caribbean or Yachtsman Caribbean

By Jbroy23 , December 13, 2013 in Windstar Cruises

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My fiance and I are looking to take a cruise on a Windstar cruise in Jan 2015 as our honeymoon. I've cruised before (about 10 times, all on big ships) and he's never been to the caribbean. Does anyone have any advice on the Classic Caribbean Itinerary (Philipsburg, Barbuda, Roseau, Pigeon Island, Les Saints, Basseterre, Nevis, St. Barths) vs. the Yachtsman Caribbean itinerary (Philipsburg, Falmouth Harbor, Soper's Hole, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, Gustavia, Philipsburg)? I've only been to Philipsburg so all of these places are new for me.

Any opinions/advice are greatly appreciated.

Also, does the Wind Surf have a casino?

Lastly, I tend to get sea sick sometimes, any suggestions on where on the ship we should book our room?

Thanks in advance!

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I have done both and each is great. What you have to appreciate is that Windsurf is totally different from the big ships. Don't bother with excursions unless you need a snorkel trip, plan on spending days at the beach, wandering a town briefly and just relaxing. Plan on spending time swimming off the swim deck. No need to rush to meals, or book meals. And buffets are civilized, not food jamming experiences like on the big ships. No big shopping experiences and the ship isn't interested in duty free ports, art auctions, photo nights, etc. All very adult. Plan on walking or taking a cab to a beach and that is the life on Windsurf. Our favourites--Des Saints, Jost van Dyke for beaches. We took a day room at the Marriott in Bass Terre, and you can do the same at the Westin in St. Maarten. Took a cab to Turner beach in Falmouth. The Baths in Virgin Gorda was the only tour we took because it is not easily accessible. Like I say, and it is hard to understand after the big ships but slow down. No need to grab cots on the deck, get it lines, endure loud music at the pool, etc. As for sea sick, take a kid's Gravol to settle yourself if you really feel the need but the only time it affected my wife was one sea day when it was rocking a bit. Otherwise, no problem. Yes there is a casino--small but it will give you a fix if you need it. Enjoy it and if you do one this year, you will do the other next time. You will be back.

If you get seasick I would book Yachtsman's Caribbean. We did both cruises back to back last year, and it was significantly smoother than the other one.

We just did Yachtsman's Caribbean last week. First night was rocky because of bad weather. Even on big ship you could not escape it. Deck one seems to be a favorite for people subject to seasickness but I am not sure about this. I do not think that 10 feet will make a difference. On deck 1, in case of heavy seas, wave goes above the porthole (washing machine effect:D). Deck 2 middle would be my choice.

On our first night we both had a Gravol but none for the rest of the week. What is nice about Yachtman's Caribbean is that the ship is anchored on 3 nights so you can go out and enjoy yourself ashore. Foxy's on Jost Van Dyke and Bitter End Yacht club come to mind. Great fun and you will see many crew members enjoying themself after working long hours. (and you have free wifi :))

I never been on the bigger ship ship so my observation are personnal.

Get wrist bands and go to the Soggy Dollar!

We just did Yachtsman's Caribbean last week. First night was rocky because of bad weather. Even on big ship you could not escape it. Deck one seems to be a favorite for people subject to seasickness but I am not sure about this. I do not think that 10 feet will make a difference. On deck 1, in case of heavy seas, wave goes above the porthole (washing machine effect:D). Deck 2 middle would be my choice.   On our first night we both had a Gravol but none for the rest of the week. What is nice about Yachtman's Caribbean is that the ship is anchored on 3 nights so you can go out and enjoy yourself ashore. Foxy's on Jost Van Dyke and Bitter End Yacht club come to mind. Great fun and you will see many crew members enjoying themself after working long hours. (and you have free wifi :))   I never been on the bigger ship ship so my observation are personnal.

Is Captain Alan McAry still at the helm? Looking forward to a review of the cruise if you are planning to post one!

Yes ,for now , but he's going to the Pride.

Going to the Pride this year but going home for awhile before taking the helm. Great guy!

Does anyone know who will be Captain when we are aboard the Surf January 4th?

Dandee-did you overnight on ST Maarten? Just wondering what sort of adaptors we will need. Also-we need to kill the better part of a day before our flight home saturday at the end of the cruise. Do you know of anyone who did the post-cruise excursion with transfer to the airport?

We stayed 2 nights pre-cruise at Holland House ( we loved it!). American style outlet in the room. On the Wind Surf there were the american and European style outlet in the cabin. No need for converter.

I do not know of anyone who used the post-cruise excursion. What time does your plane leave? This year we stayed 2 nights post-cruise at the Sonesta Maho. Last year our plane left on the Saturday so we spent the morning at the Sunset Bar & Grill near the airport to watch the plane land. Great fun if you are in that sort of thing (and we brought our luggage to the bar-many people do).

we took a day room at the Westin. Quick cab from the port and easy from there to the airport. Very civilized-pool, lunch by the ocear, good shower and off to the airport.

Thank you- great tip!

BVIArabella

Hi there,   My fiance and I are looking to take a cruise on a Windstar cruise in Jan 2015 as our honeymoon. I've cruised before (about 10 times, all on big ships) and he's never been to the caribbean. Does anyone have any advice on the Classic Caribbean Itinerary (Philipsburg, Barbuda, Roseau, Pigeon Island, Les Saints, Basseterre, Nevis, St. Barths) vs. the Yachtsman Caribbean itinerary (Philipsburg, Falmouth Harbor, Soper's Hole, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, Gustavia, Philipsburg)? I've only been to Philipsburg so all of these places are new for me.   Any opinions/advice are greatly appreciated. Also, does the Wind Surf have a casino?   Lastly, I tend to get sea sick sometimes, any suggestions on where on the ship we should book our room?   Thanks in advance!

Go with Yachtsman. We sailed on the Wind Spirit through the BVI and just got back from Wind Star Barbados and the sailing through the BVI was not as rocky. The Wind Surf is larger and will handle rough seas better. Go to Jost Van Dyke and the Soggy Dollar or Ivan's and have a Painkiller. It solves all sea sickness.

• 3 weeks later...

Peter Harris is the Captain on the Surf until March.

Just off the Surf and got to know the Captain-he is great! Very personable and a big American Football Fan(49ers)! He did a great job of mixing and mingling with passengers whenever he could. We also had the pleasure of having dinner with him for my husband's 60th birthday and it was lovely.

• 2 weeks later...

Thank you everyone for all your advice, even the hotels where to stay. We are definitely thinking the Yachtsman. When do you advise booking for a Jan 2015 sailing?

Happy Cruising!

We dropped our luggage off at the airport at 10:30 in SXM and spent the rest of the time at the Sunset Bar and Grill too, and went back to airport around 2p for our 3:45 flight.

Rented 2 loungers and umbrella and had lunch before returning to airport. Wonderful!

• 1 year later...

So I know it's been a year since this post but I was wondering if the author went and which cruise they chose? We are looking at both of these for January 2016 and am leaning towards the Classic Caribbean since it goes to islands that seem to have just a wee bit more to do. I love the beach but love to sight see as well.

Yeaaaaaahhhhhh.... just got off the boat (litterally) yesterday from this cruise.

Although it was my very first cruise of any kind, I have traveled the world extensively and have lived overseas in various countries about 1/2 of my adult life, so I've been around a little.

The cruise itself was fantastic! Boat is clean and orderly, food is absolutely over the top and there are no lines; more like fine dining even in the most casual of their settings. There is a breakfast buffet, but you can also order from a breakfast menu, or even ask for just about anything you want. When you board make a reservation at the Stella Bistro and don't forget to make more later on as there is no restriction after everyone has a chance to sign up. Even the AmphorA is really on par with fine restaurants.

Don't bother with the alcohol plan - to make it worth your while you'd have to stay drunk all the time - just not for us as beer & wine are very reasonably priced even with gratuities included (15%).

Do get the laundry plan and travel lightly!

The on board gift store has all necessary items such that you might as far as hair care, tooth paste, etc. There is shampoo, rinse, soap, hand cream provided.

Didn't use the casino. On board entertainment is basically talent night from the crew; not Vegas, but not bad.

Anyhow, the crew is great, the guest list is small (Wind Surf was 300) and we were amazed that at any one time we only saw about 30-40 people in one place at a time - you'll really feel exclusive!

BUT!!! The ports and excursions basically blew. I'm sorry. We stopped the first morning at a sand bar for beach going and were sandblasted so badly we tendered back to to boat. Remaining days ports made you feel like you were conducting third world refugee care. Unfortunately very depressed areas. However, the last port on St. Barts was so far the other direction you felt like you were on the French Riviera! Opulent and over the top! Huge yatchs, dining, shopping, lovely beaches adorned with European bathers.

Anyhow, that's my take. Would I do that cruise again = NO, would I cruise Windstar again = Absolutely!!!!!

Did I mention there were only 4 kids on the boat?

• 1 month later...

One of the reasons we booked on the Jan 16, 2016 Yachtsman's Caribbean was to get back to the Soggy Dollar. Last time we were there was on an excursion from a big ship, but as a sailor (27' Newport, nothing special), I've always wanted to go there. As we boarded the catamaran for return, a woman on the beach was crying because she had too many painkillers to swim back to the sailboat. We jumped back in and dragged her out. It was great fun! Can't wait to get back!

All great answers and we would agree having done both. Without question our favorite beach is soggy dollar and it never gets old. We have gone at least a half a dozen times over the past 10 years and find that the crowds only get heavier and would recommend that you go as early as you can 10ish. We were just at soggy dollar in March and wow was the place packed. We got onto the beach early and enjoyed about an hour and a half of pure beach bliss before it was wall to wall people.

We just booked the Yachtsmen cruise for 1/2/16, since we wanted a beachy cruise.

At JVD, on our last cruise, we bypassed the Soggy Dollar and walked down to the One Love Beach Bar, which was less crowded at that time. By early afternoon, the beach was really crowded, and all the anchor ropes from the private boats, made it difficult to even wade on the beach. Said, I would never go back there in January- but now I am.

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Ann Cavitt Fisher

Writer, Traveler, and Cancer Survivor — Get Out There and Live Life!

Wind Surf Cruise Review: Yachtsman’s Caribbean

Private yachts flock to the smaller British Virgin Islands and St. Barth’s. There’s a reason for this: they are home to some of the most beautiful beaches and water in the Caribbean. Floating in crystalline water and watching the clouds pass overhead is deeply relaxing.

I’ve just returned from St. Martin and a week-long cruise on Windstar’s Wind Surf on their Yachtsman’s Caribbean itinerary. It was perfect.

We spent seven days in small harbors the big ships cannot get to — how nice to be so spoiled!

On the larger islands of Antigua and Tortola, the ship dropped anchor in Falmouth and Soper’s Hole — far from the madding crowd at the cruise terminals.

At Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and St. Barth’s there were only yachts and sailboats.

I loved    this itinerary – very destination focused! We had one day at sea, then every day afterwards, it was a short hop to the next island.

On Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda we moored the night before the main day on those islands — making it possible to go ashore for supper. When I’ve been on sailing trips, this is just what we’ve done — it allows people stay onboard or go ashore to experience the evening. After all, it’s vacation! It should be about the freedom to make personal choices instead of being regimented.

I had a wonderful trip, and came away very impressed with Windstar as a company. The ship is beautiful, and the crew is outstanding. Windstar is in a sweet spot in the cruise industry — small ship cruising, up-market from the big lines, but significantly less expensive than the ultra-luxury lines.

Windstar carted home the awards this last year! After my cruise onboard Wind Surf, it’s easy to understand why.

• USA Today Best Boutique Cruise Line 2016
• Conde Nast 2017 Gold List
• Conde Nast Reader’s Choice Awards 2016 Best Small Cruise Ship  (#4)
• Cruise Report’s Best Small Cruise Ship Line 2016

I had such a great time on Wind Surf, and I’m excited about Windstar. I think the quality of the itineraries, the food, the ships, and the service, at their price point is outstanding.

It was lovely to return to the yacht each day, clean up and head out to the Compass Rose Bar on the stern of Wind Surf to have a cocktail and watch the sun go down. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Wind Surf’s Yachtsman’s Caribbean Itinerary and Excursions

If you’re looking for a cruise review of the Wind Surf cruise ship (or sometimes people are searching for Windstar Windsurf because they think the ship’s name is one word), I’ve given a detailed account of my trip in the Caribbean below.

I chose this itinerary because I’ve always wanted to visit Jost Van Dyke and the coral atoll of Anegada — and while Wind Surf did not moor there, I could visit it on an excursion.

Whenever I go on a cruise, I mix excursion and non-excursion days.

I did things on my own in English Harbour Antigua, White Bay Jost Van Dyke, lunch in St. Barth’s, then I took three Windstar excursions in Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and back in St. Martin.

Falmouth, Antigua

This was my fourth visit to Antigua, and my two snorkeling excursions on previous cruises were underwhelming. I’ve always found Lord Nelson interesting, and since Wind Surf anchored at Falmouth, the Nelson Dockyards were a short, ten minute walk away.

The British began using English Harbour in the 17th century because it offered protection to British warships from hurricanes.

The dockyard was developed in the 18th century to spare the navy the expense of sailing to the American colonies for refitting ships.

The buildings date from 1725 – 1745, and the dockyard most significant period of activity and importance was 1775 to 1810. With the end of the Napoleonic wars, it diminished in importance. English Harbour was too narrow to accommodate steamships, and in 1889, the navy left and the yard was closed.

In 1784, Captain Horatio Nelson was stationed at English Harbour for several years. He was very unpopular with the Antiguans for enforcing the Navigation Act that prevented trade between British islands and America. The feeling was mutual, and regularly expressed in his letters back to Britain, “English Harbour I hate the sight of.”

The Nelson Dockyard has been beautifully restored, and I had a great time exploring it.

  Soper’s Hole, Tortola: Snorkeling at Norman Island

Initially, I was concerned with the size of the Windstar group for this trip – over twenty people. It ended up being fine, because they put us on a boat that could have carried twice that number — so it was spacious for the group and not overcrowded. Yes, I would have preferred a smaller boat with fewer people.

The snorkeling at Norman Island was outstanding. I saw more different species of fish at our two snorkeling spots than I’ve ever seen together at one time in the Caribbean. A long time ago, I had a 110 gallon marine aquarium, so I’m able to identify many kinds of fish — and I was in fish heaven that morning. A big deal at Norman Island is to swim into one of the caves, but I had no interest. I just hung with the fishes. I loved watching the tiny fairy basslets and the blennies. And I swam along with an entire school of blue tangs. I would have stayed with the fish all day . . .

It may be time for me to learn to dive.

Fish I saw that morning: sergeant majors, a variety of parrot fish, blue tangs, royal grammas, blennies, jewel damsel fish, small angel fish, blue stripe, yellow stripe jack fish, pipe cleaner fish, fan coral, yellow tail snapper, surgeon fish, cleaning goby, four eye butterfly fish, French grunts, a variety of wrasses, squirrel fish, feather duster worms, black spiny sea urchins. *** Please! Be mindful that you use reef-safe sunscreen especially when you snorkel, dive, or go anywhere near the the ocean. We need to quit using products with oxybenzone, a major culprit in bleaching coral.

Since Wind Surf moored at Soper’s Hole, we were closer to Norman Island than the excursions coming from the big ships docked at the cruise terminal in Road Town. Our early morning snorkeling trip got us to Norman Island before it was busy.

Just as the noodle people arrived, we headed back to Soper’s Hole to hit Pusser’s for conch fritters and a Pain Killer.

Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke

Ahh, what a fine day it was. Two new friends from the Wind Surf came with me, and we headed to the beach at White Bay on Jost Van Dyke.

White Bay Beach is where the famous Soggy Dollar bar is — and the taxi dropped us off there without even asking. The three of us took a look around and decided to ditch Soggy Dollar.

WAY too crowded. Not what we were looking for . . .  After a nice wander down the beach away from everyone, we found One Love. No one there.

Now this is what I’m talking about . . .

I spent the day lounging and swimming and lounging and swimming and drinking Carib beer and swimming and dozing. The lobster quesadillas were perfect finger food. And One Love makes a fine, I mean a super fine Pain Killer.

As the day wore on, we were joined by a catamaran, a sailboat, and at least one motor yacht; the occupants would jump off and swim over for some lunch at One Love. It was pretty perfect.

I didn’t want to leave.

I think in my mind I may still be sitting on a lounge chair up under one of the sea grape trees . . .

 Virgin Gorda: Escape to Anegada Excursion

I heart Anegada.

This excursion was marked as strenuous, and it lived up to its description. For the Escape to Anegada excursion, two pontoon speedboats picked up the fourteen passengers directly from Wind Surf, and we were off!!

Traveling at speeds ranging from 19 knots to 30 knots, we flew over the water on our thirty minute trip out to the low-slung island of Anegada. I LOVED it! It was an exhilarating, kick-ass ride!

One of the passengers was unhappy with the excursion because she hadn’t read the description, so I’ll say it again here: it’s a rough, fast ride. You sit astride the seats — it it feels like riding a fast horse. And yes, you are going to get wet. Probably soaked at one point or another. If this doesn’t sound like fun, pick another experience! Don’t complain to the cruise director that this wasn’t your cup of tea.

Transportation met us at the dock at Anegada and transferred us to the Anegada Beach Club.

Anegada: pristine beach. No people. NO PEOPLE!! Amazing water and the sound of distant breakers hitting the reef. Patches of sea grass and Queen Conchs munching their way along the bottom. Little palapa-like sun shades with loungers.

My only complaint– we had only one hour on the beach. This needs to be longer — it should be a two hour beach break. I could have skipped the trip out to see the flamingos and the pile of dead conchs. When you get to a spot this perfect, why in the world rush to leave it?

But — I’ll be back. I was intrigued with the posh tent accommodations at the Anegada Beach Club , and staying here is now on my bucket list. Thank you, Windstar, for getting me out to this beautiful, remote place!

Our high-speed ride took us directly to the Beach Barbecue that Windstar had set up in Virgin Gorda. After a good lunch and another swim, I spent some time relaxing under a seagrape tree.

And then it was time to head back to Wind Surf.

Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy

St. Barth’s lived up to its reputation of being lovely and pricey: the yacht-styles of the rich and famous. Being a little over-sunned, and frankly still tired from Anegada and the swimming at Virgin Gorda the day before, I was looking for something low key. I wandered the town and had a lovely lunch with one of my ship mates. It was the end of a wonderful week with Windstar cruises Windsurf.

St. Martin and the America’s Cup Racing Yachts

When we disembarked back in St. Martin, I took one final excursion — the America’s Cup Regatta. Very exciting! I would love to do this again — and will, when I’m in St. Martin the next time. This is another active, strenuous excursion, and was so much fun!

This is a regatta with three twelve meter yachts that all competed in the America’s Cup races in the 1980’s.

Our group of fourteen people crewed the Canada II in a race against the Stars and Stripes and True North. I started out in a primary grinder position which I managed for the first two legs of the race before pooping out — the young guys grinding with me were too fast, so I move forward for the final leg.

Review of Windstar’s Wind Surf Yacht

Wind Surf was built in 1990 at the French shipyard Societe Nouvelle des Ateliers et Chantiers du Havre, and most recently refurbished in 2012.  She originally sailed for Club Med Cruises (as Club Med I ), and was then purchased by Windstar in 1997.

When Wind Surf was refurbished, they created thirty suites on Deck 3 by combining two regular staterooms. Because of this, all the suites have two bathrooms, in addition to a bedroom area and sitting area. There are no verandahs on Wind Surf, and all cabins have porthole windows, in keeping with the style of the yacht.

I really like the upscale, clean look of the interior design choices that were made for Wind Surf when she was updated.

Care to go for a swim? In addition to the pool and hot tubs on the stern, when the Wind Surf is moored, the Watersport Platform lowers down and you can take a dip in the ocean, go paddle boarding, or try your hand at wind surfing off the back of the yacht.

But are you sailing?

On this cruise, there was not much of a sailing sensation on Wind Surf. Part of it was the itinerary. We made short hops, island to island, so the ship wasn’t going far on most days. This is one reason I chose this cruise.

Also, I didn’t expect to feel like I was sailing; when you look at the size of Wind Surf versus the square feet of sail — in my opinion, this just isn’t what this ship is about — on Wind Surf it’s about the overall cruise experience versus sailing.

This is a positive thing for someone who likes to see the sails, but perhaps doesn’t have the sea legs or stomach to handle a windjammer or clipper ship.

If you are wanting more of a sailing experience, I’d try Windstar’s two smaller yachts — Wind Star or Wind Spirit. These two ships have a gross tonnage of 5,300 – 5,700, and 21,500 square feet of sail — smaller, lighter and more likely to give you a feeling of flying before the wind.

My Wind Surf cabin was lovely. I had stateroom #205 which was 188 square feet (18 square meters). The design was very clean and modern; storage was ample and well thought out. There were two long closets, one of which held the safe,plenty of drawers and cubbies, a fully stocked minibar, and a narrow drawer with hard liquor selection.

The bathroom was as roomy as standard ship bathrooms get, and well appointed: granite counter top, plenty of storage, and nothing looked worn or dirty. I was particularly pleased with Windstar’s L’Occitane en Provence amenity line — I loved the soap and lotion.

I’ve included the Wind Surf deck plan (click above image to enlarge) which has the sizes and configurations of all the cabin types.

My cabin had a DVD player and stereo that could several connection options so that you could play music from an iPod or phone. There were outlets for both 110 volt and 220 volt plugs. Room service was available continuously. I only used it once for coffee early in the morning, but the waiter was right there – johnny-on-the-spot.

My steward was considerate and quick to smile; he gave exemplary service. My ice bucket and glass bottles of filtered water were always full, the minibar restocked. Oh, and of course a zoo of towel animals appeared over the course of the week.

Thank you, Fauzi!

The Wind Surf Experience

My fellow passengers on this cruise were almost all either American or Canadian. I did see one couple from France.

Windstar really shines in the service arena. I found all of their crew attentive, happy, and quick to help. Many knew my name within the first twenty-four hours. With 201 crew to a passenger capacity of 310, the ratio is nearly 2 crew for every 3 passengers. This is so important. It allows Windstar to provide a high standard of service without wearing out their staff.

Wind Surf has everything you might need onboard. The Wind Spa offers full spa services, as well as hair and nail salon services.

The cruise director gave the most thorough port talks I’ve ever heard — with PowerPoints: an overview of the local history, followed by points of interest, favorite cuisine and drinks, and possible things to do. It wasn’t a shopping advertisement for stores the cruise line is paid to promote! How refreshing!

The two bands provided our onboard entertainment were both talented, and for those wanting some dancing and nightlife after dinner, the main lounge is the place to be.

Breakfast is served in the open-air Veranda restaurant on the upper deck, weather permitting. Passenger have a choice of the buffet, an omelette/egg station, or ordering from the menu.

In the evening, the Veranda restaurant transforms into Candles, with a steakhouse themed menu. Having dinner under the stars on this beautiful yacht was very special. Stella Bistro, Wind Surf’s French restaurant is also located on the top deck, just behind Veranda area. There is no additional charge for dining in the specialty restaurants, always a nice thing.

Each week, Windstar is famous for putting on their Deck Barbecue. It’s all chefs, cooks, and waitstaff on deck to pull this off, and it was impressive!

What did I think about the food on Wind Surf? It was very, very good. And — very exciting — Windstar and the James Beard Foundation have announced a partnership! Windstar is now the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation; I expect really fine things to come in the culinary area on this cruise line.

It was hard to leave Wind Surf! As with all great vacations, the time went by too quickly, and I found myself back in St. Martin for a couple of nights at the end of the cruise.

This was such a wonderful week!   I am looking forward to traveling with Windstar again — I think sailing with them to Alaska on Star Legend would be outstanding, or perhaps to Tahiti and the Society Islands on Wind Spirit . . .

Looking for a review of the cruise ship Windsurf or Windstar Windsurf? Well, you’ve found it! People often think the ship’s name is one word, but it’s actually two :-). 

Thank you for visiting! 

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29 thoughts on “ Wind Surf Cruise Review: Yachtsman’s Caribbean ”

We will doing this cruise next week with kids 14 and 18 . Would appreciate some travel tips. Really enjoyed your write up

Rahul, I had such a wonderful time on this trip — and I know my daughter would have enjoyed it at either of your kid’s ages, so I’m sure it will be a good time. I will try to send you an email via your address that I can see with your comment (which is not public). If that doesn’t work, feel free to contact me using the form on my Contact page, which will send me an email.

[…] I thoroughly enjoyed this small ship cruise — which is SO different from being on the large cruise lines. You’ll find a full review of the Windstar Cruise here: A Wind Surf Cruise: The Yachtsman’s Caribbean. […]

Cruises are always a great experience. Not only do you get to spend time on the sea amidst luxury, but you also get to visit places that otherwise may not even have been on your bucket list. This sounds like a great cruise in the lovely environs of the caribbean.

This looks like so much fun! Anegada sounds AMAZING. That super fast ride is right up my alley.

Anegada was great! I’d love to go back and try the all-posh-tent Beach Club. You’d seriously be on an island almost by yourself :-).

Ann, this is an excellent itinerary, and I’m not even a good ‘boat’ person! I had the real pleasure of visiting Antigua many years ago, and it’s a memory so special I’ll never forget it. You’re so lucky you got to see so many beautiful places on this cruise, and that ‘kick-ass’ boat ride sounds great to me! Thank you for sharing this post – I can only hope that one day I’ll be able to afford to do a cruise as good, and luxurious, as the Windstar’s Windsurf!

This sounds so amazing. I absolutely love being on boats, and sailing around the Caribbean sounds like a dream. I can’t believe these beaches & the color of the water! It’s great that you put so much detail and info into this review of Wind Surf.

The water in this part of the Caribbean is perfectly beautiful, and the Windstar people made sure we got to beaches that weren’t over-run with people. Absolutely loved the trip!

I tend to shy away from cruises because they tend to be too crowded, but Windsurf seems to be in a good size cruise! And your cabin seems very spacious and luxurious! Anegada looks wonderful with its pristine beach and there’s no one?!! I’m sold! Wish I will be making my way to the Caribbean very soon!

I found my cabin very comfortable — and as I mentioned, I like the interior design of the Wind Surf cabins. And Anegada — it was my favorite. I would really love to go spend several days there.

Yacht cruise sound much more intimate and I definitely would love to try it one day. The cabin looks fabulous too! You definitely had so much fun in that one week.

I loved the whole vibe of the Wind Surf experience. It was relaxing and fun. I felt spoiled and lucky to be there. I can hardly wait to cruise with them again,

Your trip seems like our dream of visiting the ocean. We tried cruising last year and it was all about the sea days. Island hopping to ports too small for cruise ships seems like the way sea travel was intended. Sailing on a tall ship makes it that much cooler. That and empty pristine beaches. So beautiful.

I’ve enjoyed cruises on the large ships — particularly good when my daughter was young. But having a chance to get to the ports where there aren’t so many cruise passengers swarming a town — it makes a big difference. I loved this cruise on the Wind Surf.

Wow! What a wonderful cruise to go on! You got to see so many tropical fishes! Great guide, so detailed and informative 🙂

Hey, I need your current insight on this subject. Remember to email me directly: fran etc.

Happy to talk to you — I’ve sent you an email :-).

How did I not know about this??? I’ve cruised to nearly every port in the Caribbean on the big cruise ships, but never thought about there being smaller ones I missed that I could sail to on a yacht. Sounds like a dream come true! Though the idea of Tahiti is certainly calling my name…

I certainly started on the large ships, and I’ve had some great experiences on them — especially when my daughter was young, they were perfect. It’s just been in the last year or so that I’ve started trying the smaller ships. I really liked Windstar. I think they offer high quality cruises — you get the smaller ship, great food, amazing ports — AND — Windstar isn’t as expensive as Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas.

Tahiti is calling my name too!

Your most is informative and makes me want to book passage! Thanks for sharing with us so we could live vicariously through you in paradise!

Thanks, Terri. I’ll definitely travel with Windstar again. It was a wonderful week.

Reblogged this on Dream Big, Dream Often and commented: Ann Cavitt Fisher!

Beautiful photos, we love the BVI because cruise ships can’t dock and crowd most of the islands. It looks like you did it right, good post.

I felt pretty spoiled. We really escaped the heavily trafficked spots.

I love your trip of a lifetime. It is exciting. I went to British Virgin Island when I was very young and I never returned. I am dying a plan to return to the island one day soon, and I am not going to let this chance pass me by. Was such a wonderful read! thank you for letting us know that wonderful holiday of yours. Pictures are gorgeous! Happy Sunday to you Ann!

Thank you, Juli. It certainly is a special corner of the world, and it was a wonderful week. And it’s pretty easy to get good pictures when the subject is so beautiful.

Tell me about it. very true! Many years ago when I went to BVI, there were no way of showing the world, friends and families over how beautiful a place I have been. With technology in place, it makes life more exciting to go see the world because we want to share to everyone else how beautiful is our world.

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Bonvoyageurs

Luxury travel, escapes, cruises and city breaks for discerning business and leisure travelers

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean with Windstar Cruises

March 2, 2016 by Lynn 6 Comments

Looking for that perfect getaway to de-stress, relax and revitalize?  And would you like to be pampered like royalty and sleep like a baby on your trip? Are you intrigued by the fast growing world of luxury yacht cruising?

Then I have the perfect recommendation … take an intimate Windstar cruise where the ratio of staff to passengers is close to 1:1 and where the majority of your fellow passengers are loyal repeat customers.  We did just that recently, taking a one week Caribbean cruise called “ Yachtsman’s Caribbean “, on the impressive Windstar Wind Surf sailing cruise ship. We cruised from St Maarten to Antigua, through the British Virgin Islands to St Bart’s and then back to St Maarten.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in luxury with Windstar Cruises

Interestingly, everybody I spoke to on that glorious Caribbean cruise told me that  Windstar Cruises was their “favorite” cruise line. Why their “favorite”?  … Many reported how warm, welcoming and eager to please the staff was, most of whom know the passengers’ names by the second day of the cruise.  In fact, you could say that the staff of Windstar strive to make service a true art.  Passengers also raved that, thanks to the small number of passengers (310 or less), there are virtually no lines on a Windstar cruise, and the amenities are easily accessible — from the specialty restaurants and the tenders to the fun-in-the-sun equipment of the Marina at the ship’s well-equipped Watersports Platform.  Plus, thanks to the small size of Windstar yachts, they sail into ports where larger ships cannot.

Passengers also explained how much they enjoyed the elegant, low-keyed ambiance on board ship as well as being with the kind of people who enjoy a Windstar cruise.  To put it simply, smiles and friendliness greet you wherever go and and the staff takes great pride in catering to your every need … almost as if you were on your own private yacht.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in style with Windstar Cruises

Windstar’s fleet includes six small ships, including three sailing yachts.  We had the pleasure of sailing on the Wind Surf, billed as “the world’s largest sailing yacht”.  Built in France, this superb ship was recently refurbished with an elegant contemporary flair and offers a main restaurant and two specialty restaurants — one featuring French cuisine and the other serving grilled fish and meats outside by candle light. 

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in luxury with Windstar Cruises : Morning Coffee thru Afternoon Tea at the Yacht Club

A coffee and tea bar with sandwiches and pastries is also open from early am through afternoon tea, and various indoor and outdoor cocktail bars are available throughout the ship where passengers can enjoy drinking and socializing.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in style with Windstar Cruises : Breakfast and Lunch are served on the Veranda Deck

Both breakfast and lunch are served on the top deck with indoor and outdoor seating that famously comes with fabulous views.  At both these meals, an  à  la carte menu which changes daily is offered as well as a buffet with a wide range of offerings, including plenty of fresh fruits at both meals and a sizable salad buffet at lunch. At breakfast, there is also an omelette and pancake station, and at breakfast and lunch there is an outdoor grill making everything from Eggs Benedict and French Toast in the am to Hamburgers and Reuben sandwiches in the pm. Whatever you do, make sure to order some of the light, crispy French fries from the grill guys!  Vegetarian and gluten-fee options are also offered at all meals.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in style with Windstar Cruises : Suckling Pig and Lobster Tails highlight an Evening Deck Barbecue under the stars

The quality of the food matches the variety and was only topped by the awesome service offered by the abundant staff who greeted us regularly by name and quickly learned what our preferences were.  For example, the day after I mentioned to the restaurant manager that I was interested in grilled fresh fish, he came up to me as soon as I arrived for lunch to say my “fresh fish” was ready to be grilled.  And then there was the waiter who brought me my mint tea just as I was about to order it and also presented me with an extra carrot cake cupcake just because he knew it was my favorite!  What more can you ask? In all three of the ship’s restaurants open for dinner, the Windstar philosophy is to do what it takes to please the passenger.  While we truly enjoyed the food, wine and service at every dinner we had on board ship, our favorite meal was the Windstar traditional deck dinner barbecue which was absolutely magical … see our upcoming posting on Dining under the Stars .

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in style with Windstar Cruises : Volleyball game at Private Island Beach Experience

We also ate our hearts out at the Windstar Island Experience.  Windstar is justifiably proud of their “Private Experience” offerings, and in the Caribbean, the experience is a phenomenal midday barbecue on a private beach reserved for the Windstar Experience which includes sea and land sports as well as the barbecue. On our cruise, the event was orchestrated on the beach of the uninhabited Prickly Pear Island just opposite Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in style with Windstar Cruises : Fun in the sun at Prickley Pear Island

From chaise lounges under shaded canopies and other creature comforts to a fabulous Island band, this Windstar “experience” offered it all.  And clearly, once again, the ship’s crew made a phenomenal effort to provide the passengers with a memorable and fun-filled experience.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in luxury with Windstar Cruises : Tropical buffet on Prickley Pear Island

Since there is more to life than eating and drinking (!), Wind Surf also offers a large and well-equipped fitness room with an ocean view, a spa with an impressive list of services staffed by estheticians well-trained in London, a small outdoor pool and hot tub, and a large lounge where many daily activities are held including cocktail hour briefings orchestrated by the very personable Activities Director.   Plus, there is a Casino, an Internet center, a boutique and the dynamic Marina and Watersports center where you can choose from a myriad of water activities.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in style with Windstar Cruises : Watersports Platform at stern of Wind Surf

Naturally, we felt the need to test out some of these offerings.  So our second day onboard ship we treated ourselves to his and her spa services.  An hour and a half of treatment later, we returned to our cabin totally refreshed and utterly relaxed.  Our treatments were top-notch, on a par with the best we’ve had in world-class spas.  The following day, we experienced the joy of jumping into the Caribbean off the back of the Marina.  Then we swam over to the water trampoline and discovered our inner child as we exercised our balancing skills jumping on the trampoline and then right off into the water.  Sheer joy for water-lovers!

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in luxury with Windstar Cruises : Suite Stateroom on the Wind Surf

Accommodations on board the Wind Surf are very comfy and very well-serviced.  There are 154 staterooms in total, including 31 Oceanview Suites with his and her bathrooms, 2 Bridge Suites, and 123 Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms.  Updated and designed for maximum comfort and storage, each cabin offers luxurious linens and amenities with items such as a flatscreen TV, hairdryer, and reading lights each strategically placed for ease of usage.  Besides the ocean view and our thoughtful stateroom attendant, one of my favorite features of the cabin is the bathroom with its perfect lighting, wide mirror, ample storage and powerful shower. But my absolute favorite feature is the bed where I was gently rocked to sleep every night as we cruised from port to port under the magnificent sails of our sailing ship.

Adding to the super friendly ambiance on board ship is the open door policy of the Bridge which you can visit whenever the ship is not in port.  Ask away when you arrive, as the Captain and his staff are pleased to visit with you and answers all your questions.

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in style with Windstar Cruises : Top-notch friendly service overseen by Hotel Manager Christian Streicher

After a week of pampering by the crew, sleeping soundly under sail and enjoying fabulous meals and glorious vistas with charming excursions, I can definitely understand why Windstar has won many accolades in the travel industry, including recently being voted “world’s best small ship cruise line” by Condé Nast Travelers.  The small size of the ship and the ambiance provided by the crew seem to slow the pace of life down to where stress dissipates and relaxation is just a way of life.  For more information, please visit  windstarcruises.com

Yacht Cruising the Caribbean in luxury with Windstar Cruises : the Wind Surf

Stay tuned to BonVoyageurs.com for more Countries of the World as we share our joie de vivre from around the world. Luxury escapes, cruises and city breaks to Quebec City, New York, Washington, Buenos Aires. In Europe, places like Paris France, Nice France, Provence and the Cote d’Azur (French Riviera), Tuscany and Florence in Italy, Rome, Napoli and the Amalfi Coast. In Asia, countries like China, India, Nepal and so much more!

March 7, 2016 at 3:19 am

I took the Windstar cruise along the coasts of Costa Rica and Panama, ending with a night-time trip through the Panama Canal. It was everything you experienced on your cruise and more. I’d go back in a heartbeat!

March 7, 2016 at 10:03 pm

It looks fabulous!

March 8, 2016 at 7:32 pm

We would see Windstar ships often when we lived in the Virgin Islands and always thought cruising on one would be a lot of fun. Looks like we were right.

March 10, 2016 at 10:14 pm

You summed it up in one phrase “sleep like a baby”. What would i not do to have that now. 🙂

March 11, 2016 at 2:33 pm

You have me convinced! I’m adding Windstar Cruises to my future travels list after seeing these photos and reading about the luxury and fun on your cruise.

March 11, 2016 at 8:52 pm

We have sailed with Windstar three times in recent years. The Windsurf is my favorite ship.

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ESCAPING THE ORDINARY HAS NEVER BEEN MORE EFFORTLESS

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Paradise is perfected on our new all-inclusive cruises: you’ll island-hop private yacht style, exploring hidden harbors and secluded coves while enjoying our world-class personal service. Rest easy knowing every vacation package includes three extraordinary shore excursions, an array of tempting beverages, onboard wifi and gratuities, and a private event. We’ve fine-tuned this selection of tropical voyages to enchant all types of travel personalities. Whether you prefer to linger on uncrowded, white-sand beaches, swim and snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, or indulge in delectable cocktails and cuisine, our offerings are sure to fulfill every inclination. Relaxation begins at booking—all you need to do is choose between 11 exotic destinations in the Caribbean, Panama, Costa Rica, and Tahiti.

Call your travel professional or Windstar Cruises at 888-216-9373

DREAMS OF TAHITI

A graceful sailing yacht is the perfect way to experience the true wonder of Tahiti. We’ll let the trade winds fill our sails as we visit one legendary island after another, staying overnight in some to give you time to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, meander through lush rainforests, and experience the fascinating Polynesian culture from tikis to tiare flowers.

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TAHITI & THE TUAMOTU ISLANDS

The trade winds of French Polynesia have enticed sailors for centuries – and now those same beautiful breezes fill the sails of Wind Spirit as we sail through the windward and leeward Society Islands to the serene natural beauty of the Tuamotu Islands, where pristine atolls and crystal-clear lagoons welcome you to a hidden paradise.

10 or 11 DAYS FROM $4,199 PP

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LATIN AMERICA VOYAGES

NATURALLY COSTA RICA

Lush, full of life, kissed by the sun and blessed with a breathtaking shoreline, the “rich coast” is just what it claims to be. At the confluence of two oceans, two continents, and two climates, Costa Rica is one of the most ecologically diverse places on earth. Prepare to be wowed by wildlife and seduced by the Eden-like beauty of the country.

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PASSAGE THROUGH PANAMA & COSTA RICA

Transit the Panama Canal, one of the world’s most stunning feats of engineering on a yacht that lets you see it all. Watch for rare Scarlet Macaws in Corcovado National Park, “The Amazon of Costa Rica,” and dive the amazing coral reefs of Isla de Coiba. This is a singular voyage of natural wonders and man-made marvels.

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GEMS OF THE LEEWARD ISLANDS

By departing from magical San Juan instead of from Florida, your Caribbean vacation begins earlier, on day one. Dazzling white sand turns the shallows mesmerizing shades of peacock and mermaid, weathered fortresses point canons at long-vanished schooners, natural pools warm gently under the mid-day sun.

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BEST OF THE ABC ISLANDS

This is the Caribbean for those with a taste for something a bit more exotic. Colonial influences are still going strong here, from the “Little England” island of Barbados to still-very-Dutch Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Days ashore promise unexpected discoveries – a donkey sanctuary on Bonaire, underground rivers and caves in Barbados, an artist colony on Curaçao.

JEWELS OF THE WINDWARD ISLANDS

This is the Caribbean of days gone by – deep blue waters, quiet coves, powdery beaches and lush green hillsides. Sail from the rugged natural beauty of St. Lucia to little-known isles that are off the tourist radar. Explore colorful Bequia and Mayreau in St. Vincent & the Grenadines to the open-air markets of exotic St. George’s.

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YACHTSMAN'S CARIBBEAN

Fully experience the Caribbean’s private yachting scene as we take you into hidden coves and tiny harbors no one else can reach. Explore the quaint island charm of Soper’s Hole and the inviting beaches of Jost Van Dyke. Sail to Virgin Gorda, with its assembly of house-sized rocks called The Baths, and savor the high life on St. Barts.

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I went on 2 of Royal Caribbean's largest and newest cruise ships. I enjoyed them, but they're not for everyone.

• I've sailed on Royal Caribbean's largest cruise ships , Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas.
• Both megaships are jam-packed with people, amenities, and dining options.
• But if you want a quiet cruise to unique destinations, they might not be for you.

Before booking a vacation at sea, travelers should always research the best cruise line and ship for their needs.

If you're looking for a cheap and fast trip, try Margaritaville at Sea . Craving something more upscale? Consider Oceania Cruises.

But if you're looking for high-end sailing to unique destinations, I'd suggest avoiding Royal Caribbean's megaships .

Royal Caribbean has become synonymous with giant, family-friendly cruise ships

By 2028, Royal Caribbean wants one-third of its fleet to be megaships.

The latest addition, the 1,196-foot-long and 248,663-gross-ton Icon of the Seas, entered service in January, unseating Wonder of the Seas as the world's largest cruise liner.

Together, the two vessels can fit over 19,000 people — about 4,500 crew and 14,500 guests. Each ship has eight neighborhoods and there are 29 bars and 48 eateries between them.

I've attended complimentary sailings on both Wonder and Icon, the longest of which was three nights on the latter. From their colorful pool decks to the inescapable crowds, as a solo-adult traveler, I was equal parts entertained, overwhelmed, and overstimulated.

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But admittedly, I had fun. I do love a good waterslide; Wonder has three of them and Icon has six.

If you want to go on a cruise with your children — and if they, like me, love activities like rock climbing and mini golf — Royal Caribbean's megaships could be your best option.

Wonder and Icon are jam-packed with activity spaces like ice-skating rinks and ziplines.

But don't expect a peaceful retreat. The rowdy, bar-hopping adults and screaming children at the water playground aren't conducive to a relaxing vacation.

Megavessels might not be for you if you want a quiet cruise

If you want a relaxing vacation — maybe one that doesn't involve crowds of children — you shouldn't stay on either Royal Caribbean yacht.

There are many ways to have a luxury vacation on Icon of the Seas . But unless you want to pay for upcharged amenities at every turn, you'd be better off spending more upfront to reserve a premium cruise line — especially if you're interested in cruising for the destinations, not the ships.

After all, like most of Royal Caribbean's largest vessels, Icon and Wonder exclusively sail in the Caribbean.

Some destinations, such as French Polynesia, have set restrictions on which cruises can travel there amid concerns about pollution and overcrowding.

If stopping at these ports — or, really, anywhere outside the Caribbean — is at the top of your vacation wish list, you'll have to travel on a smaller Royal Caribbean ship or go with a different cruise line like Oceania , Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas.

You might not get a waterpark, but you'll get a quieter vacation to locations no megaship will likely be allowed to visit.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency. 

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style. 

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship." 

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity   travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

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See the Northern Lights on Every Princess Cruise to Alaska in 2024

Award-winning “north to alaska with princess” program debuts new immersive experiences for 55th anniversary 2024 cruise and cruisetour season.

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FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. , (May 1, 2024) – The dreamlike images of green and purple lights swirling in the northern sky, known as the Aurora Borealis or "Northern Lights," is an unforgettable spectacle, and something all guests sailing this summer with Princess Cruises to Alaska are guaranteed to see. 

This new immersive Voyage to the Stars experience is part of the cruise line’s award-winning North to Alaska with Princess program set to debut for the upcoming 2024 cruise and cruisetour season that strengthens the overall guest connection in the Great Land. This year Princess guests will step inside a planetarium in the Princess Theater for a front row seat to the “Northern Lights” presentation showcasing the beauty and wonder of this phenomenon featuring live imagery, designed to engage adults and kids alike. 

“Each season in Alaska we strive to deliver enriching experiences for our guests to feel immersed in the beauty and local culture of this spectacular destination,” said Terry Thornton, chief commercial officer of Princess Cruises. “After receiving our highest guest satisfaction ranking ever last season, we knew we wanted to design elevated programming to further connect our guests to all of the wonders of the 49th state for our 55th anniversary season.”

The 2024 season promises to be the biggest and best ever for Princess with 158 departures on 14 unique itineraries with 17 destinations, including five glacier viewing experiences on seven stunning ships. The cruise line’s 55th anniversary season also features 91 visits to Glacier Bay National Park, taking more guests through this scenic cruising experience than any other cruise line, including the “Voyage of the Glaciers” itineraries between Anchorage (Whittier) and Vancouver, B.C., and Inside Passage voyages roundtrip from Seattle, San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C.

The award-winning North to Alaska by Princess program is exclusive to the cruise line and designed by experts to showcase local storytellers, cultural experiences, the flavors of Alaska and more. Additional North to Alaska by Princess offerings for the 2024 season include:

Onboard Princess Ships Cook My Catch comes to The Catch by Rudi  Guests sailing to Alaska aboard Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess can enjoy their very own catch of the day after a day of fishing on special Princess shore excursions in the new specialty seafood restaurant, The Catch by Rudi. The first Princess restaurant primarily devoted to seafood offers a completely fresh take on seafood with contemporary interpretations of classic dishes, international fusion influences, highly creative presentations, and an engaging dining experience. 

Crabshack This fan favorite returns to Alaska in all its shell-cracking glory with casual seafood options not to be missed. The four-course meal features a range of seafood favorites, including popcorn shrimp, clam chowder, even an Alaska-inspired steamer pot full of crab legs, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Guests will find this pop-up dining event in the World Fresh Marketplace on all seven ships sailing in Alaska in 2024.

Salmon Cooking Demonstration  Embark on a culinary adventure onboard with a new Salmon Cooking Demonstration, an exclusive experience on the last sea day of the cruise, that celebrates the richness of Alaska cuisine. Expert chefs showcase the art of preparing and cooking salmon, a staple in the region and a delicacy known for its flavor and versatility.

Pendleton: A Partnership Highlighting American Craftsmanship  Celebrating the 55th anniversary sailing to Alaska, Princess has partnered with Pendleton, an iconic lifestyle brand that has been based in the Pacific Northwest for over 100 years. Popular Pendleton blankets, flannels, coats, graphic tees and more will be available for purchase onboard (and at the Princess Wilderness Lodges). Specially designed for Princess, a commemorative limited edition “Alaska, The Great Land” blanket will be available for $299. 

Shore Excursions Princess has added 13 new shore excursions to the already abundant lineup ashore to bring Alaska to life in an engaging, immersive, sometimes delectable and always memorable way. New shore excursions for the 2024 season include:

• Juneau Highlights: Glacier Gardens & Whale Park
• Treadwell: Living History Walk of Alaska’s Lost Mine
• Crab Feast at George Inlet Lodge
• Exclusive Flightseeing & Taste of Alaska
• White Pass Steam Train to Bennett Lake (offered on Friday & Sunday calls only)
• Port Chilkoot Distillery Tour & Tastings
• Stories of Haines E-Bike Tour
• Stories of Haines E-Moped Tour
• Metal Torching Alaska Art Class
• Advanced Mountain Bike Adventure
• Guide’s Choice Hike
• Marine Expedition & Wildlife Quest
• WaveRunner Island Exploration

On Land at Princess Wilderness Lodges Alaska Adventure Quest: Geocaching Expedition  Guests will embark on a thrilling Alaska adventure like never before with a new Geocaching Expedition program at each of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges throughout Alaska. The program offers a unique blend of outdoor exploration and teamwork, making it the perfect adventure for families, friends, and solo explorers alike. Guests can use their cellphone as a GPS device or grab a map from the front desk at their lodge and follow clues and coordinates to find hidden caches strategically placed throughout the lodge properties. 

Alaska-Themed Cocktails, Mocktails and Appetizers  Leveraging local ingredients, embark on a taste journey throughout the rugged wilderness of Alaska with signature crafted cocktails, mocktails and appetizers. All are infused with the flavors of Alaska and all options vary by lodge to give guests the most exquisite tastes from all over the state. 

Garden to Table At the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge and Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge, Princess chefs tap natural resources to provide guests with the freshest ingredients from the on-property gardens in their dishes and drinks made right at the lodge. The menus are seasonally crafted to accommodate nature’s growing and harvesting season. Using fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs from these gardens will help guests feel more connected with the great land and make a positive and sustainable impact by minimizing the food delivery carbon footprint.

Golden Heart Tea at Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge Nestled in the heart of the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, Princess’ Alaska tea experience invites guests to step into a world of sophistication and culinary delights. The attentive staff, well-versed in the art of tea service, will guide them through Alaska sourced tea, helping them choose the perfect blend to enhance each exquisite bite—from scones to salmon mousse, mini cakes and more.

Naturalists Lead Outdoors Program For those seeking a more hands-on connection with nature, the naturalist program at the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge and Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge immerses guests in the breathtaking wilderness of Alaska, offering a unique and educational experience focused on the region's rich natural environment. Led by experienced naturalists, the program combines hands-on field experiences with informative lectures to deepen understanding of Alaska's flora, fauna, and geological wonders.

Cocktail-Making Class at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge  Guests can immerse themselves in the art of mixology at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge's Cocktail Making Class. This hands-on experience at Fannie Q’s Saloon invites participants to discover the secrets behind crafting the perfect cocktails and mocktails. Led by skilled mixologists, the class covers various techniques, from muddling and shaking to garnishing.

Denali Education Center Presentations at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge Discover the wonders of Denali National Park as the Denali Education Center presents sessions that bring the region's natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage to life. Expert educators and naturalists lead these presentations, sharing their deep knowledge and passion for the unique ecosystem that surrounds the lodge. 

Cooking Demonstration at Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge  Embark on a culinary adventure at the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge with a captivating cooking demonstration. Led by an expert chef, this experience invites guests to discover the artistry behind crafting delectable dishes inspired by the flavors of the region. The chef will share insights into the use of local and seasonal ingredients, highlighting fresh seafood that define the culinary landscape of the Copper River region.

New for 2024 are convenient, seven-day Inside Passage itineraries, many including Glacier Bay National Park, round-trip from Vancouver on Ruby Princess. The cruises deliver four awe-inspiring ports, including Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan along with visits to Endicott Arm and scenic cruising of Dawes Glacier.

Plus, there are more than 20 amazing cruisetours (cruise + land tour) that combine the unmatched Princess cruise experience with visits to the sights of Denali National Park, Kenai Peninsula, Copper River, Fairbanks and Anchorage and all from the comfort of the exclusive Princess lodges. Celebrating the 55th anniversary, two new cruisetours debut in 2024: 

• National Parks Tour - A 15-night adventure to five of Alaska’s most breathtaking parks including Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords National Parks, and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway. This experience combines a seven-day cruise, scenic rail travel, and eight nights land, including stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges.
• Katmai National Park Tour - Nine-day cruisetour includes two nights in Anchorage, where guests have the chance to embark on an intimate bear-watching experience at Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park. This tour immerses travelers in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, allowing them to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, before or after sailing on a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise that includes a coveted visit to Glacier Bay National Park.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com . 

Media Contacts

Contact information for members of the media

Negin Kamali, +1 661-753-1539, [email protected]

Briana Latter, +1 661-753-1538, [email protected]

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

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Government Headquarters ("the White House")

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