Windstar Cruises will expand its European offerings in 2027 with twelve new itineraries and the debut of the Star Explorer. This expansion supports rising demand for intimate small ship cruising that brings travelers closer to destinations that larger vessels cannot reach. With this move, Windstar strengthens its influence across Mediterranean and Northern Europe travel, helping shape a more sustainable and personalized era of cruise tourism.
Windstar’s fleet will include five yachts sailing through iconic coastal regions. These smaller ships give guests a close-up view of local culture, authentic landscapes, and harbors often missed by larger vessels. The new itineraries combine hidden islands, historic cities, and exclusive events, giving travelers new ways to explore Europe’s rich heritage.
Small Ships Redefine Mediterranean and Northern Europe Cruises
Windstar’s approach to small ship cruising offers travelers unmatched access to intimate ports. With vessels like Star Legend, Wind Surf, Star Pride, Wind Spirit, and the new Star Explorer, the company sets a new standard for immersive travel across Europe.
Guests can explore Greece, Italy, Croatia, France, and Slovenia with itineraries that focus on personal discovery instead of mass tourism. Each sailing highlights local charm, coastal traditions, and authentic communities, helping guests appreciate Europe’s cultural diversity.
This shift toward small ships reflects a broader trend in the global cruise sector. More travelers want slower travel, smaller groups, and meaningful cultural connections. Windstar’s new itineraries respond to that trend with precision.
Wind Spirit Brings New Adriatic and Mediterranean Discoveries
The Wind Spirit will introduce several new Mediterranean and Adriatic itineraries in 2027 that highlight regions often overlooked by large vessels.
The Off the Beaten Path Adriatic itinerary brings guests from Dubrovnik to Venice through medieval towns, peaceful islands, and narrow harbors that reveal the Adriatic’s untouched beauty.
Windstar will also offer Venetian Majesty & Spectacular Croatia, taking guests from Venice to Dubrovnik with stops along Slovenia’s coast and Croatia’s scenic cities. These destinations continue to rise in popularity as travelers seek culture-rich seaside escapes.
These routes will boost tourism across Croatia, Slovenia, and northern Italy, where cruise activity supports local businesses and provides valuable economic opportunities.
Economic Benefits for Smaller Ports
Windstar’s small vessels bring strong economic value to lesser-known coastal towns. By docking in intimate ports like Bonifacio, Portofino, and Sardinia, Windstar increases visitor numbers in places that rely heavily on tourism.
Guests often explore local shops, enjoy neighborhood restaurants, and book guided tours, giving communities a consistent economic lift. This approach supports sustainable tourism by spreading visitor traffic across smaller destinations rather than crowding larger hubs.
Exclusive Cruise Events for 2027
Windstar continues to attract guests with event-focused cruises designed for unique travel experiences.
The Race Day & Riviera Charm itinerary will bring guests to the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the world’s most popular motorsport events. Stops in Saint-Tropez and Portofino offer luxury settings that align with the Grand Prix crowd.
Another high-demand voyage is Wind Surf’s Total Solar Eclipse cruise in the Aegean. Guests will witness the August 2, 2027 solar eclipse while sailing from Athens, a moment many travelers consider once-in-a-lifetime.
Such itineraries show Windstar’s expanding role in experiential travel, blending natural wonders, global events, and small ship luxury.
New Mediterranean Routes Highlight Southern Italy and Sicily
The Star Legend will offer new routes showcasing Italy’s southern charm and Sicily’s volcanic beauty. These itineraries reveal ancient ruins, dramatic coastlines, and communities shaped by centuries of maritime traditions.
The Athens to Rome Moments in Southern Italy & Greece via the Corinth Canal voyage brings travelers through one of the world’s most iconic waterways before visiting southern Italian ports. Meanwhile, Sicilian Splendors explores islands shaped by mountains, lava fields, and storied cultures.
These itineraries will elevate tourism in both Italy and Greece by highlighting regions known for authenticity and warm hospitality.
Northern Europe Itineraries Discover Maritime Icons
The Star Pride will sail several new Northern Europe itineraries, exploring coastal cities with rich maritime legacies.
Routes such as London to Amsterdam Seaside Charms & Dutch Waterways and Amsterdam to London Timeless Maritime Powerhouses highlight the historic shorelines of England, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
These regions continue to gain traction in luxury cruising, thanks to their architecture, waterways, and deep cultural history.
Windstar Cruises Shapes the Future of European Cruise Travel
Windstar’s 2027 expansion supports a growing movement toward sustainable travel, small ships, and meaningful guest experiences. By distributing visitors across smaller European ports and designing itineraries focused on culture and authenticity, the company supports long-term tourism growth.
With the debut of Star Explorer and twelve new itineraries, Windstar strengthens its position as a leader in Mediterranean and Northern Europe cruise tourism. The company’s commitment to unique voyages, immersive cultural events, and economic impact across local communities ensures a bright future for small ship cruising across Europe.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
