Dear Travel Advisors,

At Windstar, we are very proud of our crew. While they come from many countries and many cultures, the one thing they all have in common is Heart. They display it every day when interacting with our guests, yet most won’t know the deep relationships they’ve formed with one another.

In our most recent conversations with our ships’ officers we heard some heart-warming stories. We learned that some crew members from eastern Europe had offered their homes to evacuating Ukrainian crew in need of shelter. There were offers of food and transportation. And in one case, two engineers working together on board, one Russian and the other Ukrainian, re-committed their respect and friendship despite the complicated geo-political situation at home. Our extraordinary crew is just one reason why Windstar Cruises is 180 degrees from ordinary.

Unfortunately, the conflict has forced us to alter itineraries away from Russia and Ukraine through 2022. We will be replacing St. Petersburg with other Baltic ports in Germany and Finland, and we have changed our Black Sea itineraries to a brand new one: Cultural Gems on the Azure Aegean: Turkey & Greece. Windstar also offers a variety of popular Mediterranean itineraries that include the yacht harbors of Spain, Greece and The Rivieras, and exciting Northern European voyages to the small villages of Iceland and Norway.

Windstar offers unrivaled access to the most sought after destinations worldwide. Learn more about the opportunities below. Then invite your clients to sail with us and become members of our Windstar Family.

Steven Simao, CTC
Vice President of Sales

Your clients have many dreams they are ready to fulfill in Europe, often inspired by its great cities and historical highlights. But there is another side to Europe, the places the locals go, and Windstar knows the way.

We can get them closer to everything and get them away from the crowds so they can explore Europe more intimately. Serving just 148 to 342 guests, our classic sailing and all-suite yachts are guided by the wind and the stars to nearly 75 itineraries and more than 150 ports throughout Europe.

Match your client to the perfect Windstar European experience:

Select Sailings—Select Sailings are specifically designed by Windstar cruise experts for intrepid and savvy travelers. Your clients will find new and memorable adventures in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enjoy the most unusual regional tastes, and discover the most story-worthy cultural insights. Simply put, these are short getaways to destinations no discerning traveler should miss.

Star Collector Voyages—To truly embrace Europe like a local, recommend a Star Collector Voyage which combines our most popular itineraries back-to-back. These sailings are for clients who enjoy longer voyages and collecting stellar experiences. With itineraries ranging from 14 to 33 days, they can take advantage of their opportunity to unpack once and explore more deeply. Plus, with complimentary laundry included they can travel lighter.
 
Cruise Tour Voyages—Many cruise experiences promise cultural immersion. Only a small ship can provide access to small ports, yacht harbors and secluded coves like a Windstar yacht. With Windstar Cruise Tours, they will also travel inland to visit important locations not accessible by sea. Windstar will handle the details on land with tickets to attractions, hotel accommodations, and select meals.
 
Grand European Bucket List Adventure—We are accepting reservations for all Tahiti sailings through August 29, 2024, so your clients can go ahead and set the date.
 
Help your clients find their way to Windstar with these Top Europe Itineraries and Reduced Deposit:

Treasures of the Greek Isles
Classic Italy & Dalmatian Coast
Sicilian Splendors
Souks & Sherries: Iberia & Morocco
Spanish Symphony
Yachtsman’s Harbors of the Rivieras
Icons of the Ancient World: Greece & Israel
Around Iceland
Adriatic Archipelagos & Greek Goddesses
Norway’s Famous Fjords
Cultural Gems on the Azure Aegean: Turkey & Greece--NEW
Star Collector: Eastern Mediterranean Icons--NEW
Cappadocia & the Azure Aegean Cruise Tour--NEW
 
Sales Tips: Recommend back-to-back itineraries to create a Star Collector. Add inland adventures by suggesting a Cruise Tour for an adventure from 9 to 13 days. And remember, sailings of 13 days and longer also receive complimentary laundry service.

Book an upcoming Windstar cruise now and enjoy reduced deposits from just $200 per guest. Set your travel dates for 2022, 2023, or even 2024 and book before April 30, 2022 for these reduced cruise deposits.

Refundable Reduced Deposit makes it even easier to plan now and save now, then travel when you’re ready. We’ve reduced our normal deposit requirement of 15 percent to these low flat rates, but only for a limited time!

Itineraries 10 days and less — Reduced deposit now only $200 per guest
Itineraries 11-17 days — Reduced deposit now only $600 per guest
Itinerary 18 days and more — Reduced deposit now only $1,000 per guest
 
Plus, final payment for cruises departing by June 30, 2022 is not due until 60 days prior to sailing, instead of the standard 120 days. And as part of our Travel Assurance Booking Policy, guests plan with confidence knowing that they can cancel up to 48 hours prior to departure and receive a 100% future cruise credit.

Choose All-Inclusive cruise pricing for only $79 extra per guest, per day, which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, unlimited Wi-Fi and all gratuities.

Please note: Grand Prix voyages are excluded from this offer.

It is encouraging to see countries around the world loosening travel restrictions and testing requirements. It does a lot to instill a sense of confidence in all of us that health and safety protocols are working.

Windstar follows all local regulations and requirements established by the countries we visit. This includes masking, testing and social distancing measures, which still vary greatly from Tahiti to Europe to Alaska. Our team is monitoring and adjusting our policies as COVID-19 situations evolve. Unless required by local authorities, we have removed masking requirements and some capacity controls for our guests on board, simplified pre-cruise testing, and eliminated bubble tours ashore in most ports.

We will continue to require that all guests be fully vaccinated in order to sail with us and test negative at the pier for embarkation. Our crew is also required to be fully vaccinated, and will continue to test weekly. Crew members will also wear masks when necessary.

Windstar follows all local regulations and requirements established by the countries we visit. This includes masking, testing and social distancing measures, which still vary greatly from Tahiti to Europe to Alaska. Our team is monitoring and adjusting our policies as COVID-19 situations evolve.

Visit our Health & Safety page regularly for travel advisories, our CIBT Tool to search entry requirements for a trip, and details about our Beyond Ordinary Care Program, a multi-layered strategy designed to create and maintain the safest possible environment for our guests.

Invitation for Currently Booked Guests to Sail Back-to-Back

Last month we began sending personal emails to guests booked on a Windstar sailing through June 30, 2022, inviting them to extend their vacation with a preceding or subsequent sailing, creating a back-to-back itinerary at a savings.

Call your clients! Travel Advisors are always encouraged to recommend back-to-back opportunities with Windstar. We infrequently repeat ports on many itineraries around the globe, and when compared to even a short hotel or resort stay, a Windstar voyage is a terrific value! Especially when you consider our All-Inclusive Pricing option as part of your quote. Book by April 30, 2022 and sail by June 30, 2022.

through April 30, 2022

Guests can now receive up to 50% off for many select sailings if they book on board, or book another cruise with Windstar within 60 days of their disembarkation date, or by April 30, 2022, whichever is earlier.

Their Yacht Club membership always entitles your clients to a 5% savings, and an additional 5% when they book within 60 days of disembarkation. For a limited time we’re offering them up to 50% off select sailings in the Caribbean, Holy Lands, and Ocean Crossings, and 30% off select sailings in Greece, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Tahiti. Offer expires within 60 days of disembarkation and all discounts return to 5% after April 30, 2022.

When you make your Bon Voyage calls to your clients recommend that they take advantage of this offer! Windstar’s Onboard Cruise Consultants immediately attribute the booking to you and your agency.

We are deeply saddened by the news about Crystal Cruises and we understand the level of disappointment and concern this has created for you and your clients. At Windstar Cruises, our Travel Advisor family and cruise industry community are part of the fabric of our brand and our Star Promise. It is in this spirit we reach out in support of both. If you are working with Crystal clients who are interested in another option for their vacation plans, please consider how Windstar Cruises can fulfill their needs and exceed their high expectations. We offer guests a luxurious experience, welcoming atmosphere, sincere and thoughtful service, and an intimate vacation that allows them to explore the world in a meaningful way. And now, they can make plans with Windstar and receive an exclusive 20 percent savings + reduced deposit as low as $200 per guest on all 2022 departures booked by April 30, 2022. Whether you are new to Windstar, or a seasoned Windstar sailor, spend just a few minutes with our Advisor Hub and give us a call at 877-372-6804 to learn how we can help you. Our sales team is also looking forward to hearing from you.

Windstar knows the way to taste the essence of the culture.

As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation, every day at Windstar we highlight dozens of culinary masters, not just one!

James Beard Foundation: West Coast Epicurean Extravaganza
Chef Tanya Holland — Brown Sugar Kitchen, Oakland, CA
May 10, 2022 | 10 DAYS | Star Breeze | San Diego to Vancouver

James Beard Foundation: Southeast Canadian Explorations
Chef Irene Li — Mei Mei, Boston, MA
October 12, 2022 | 11 DAYS | Star Pride | Montreal to Boston

We are excited to return to Alaska with all-suite Star Breeze for the first time after her transformation! Go deep into the Great Land, further than most cruise ships directly into Kenai Fjords National Park and Misty Fjords National Monument. With Windstar your clients will truly experience the enormity of Alaska, taking more time to see the calving glaciers and wildlife up close from the perspective of an all-suite yacht.

Windstar’s Signature Expeditions Program departs directly from the Watersports Platform on the back of the yacht. These one-of-a-kind adventures are guided by a team of onboard expedition experts who sail with the cruise the entire time. They will provide more insight, understanding, and commentary to show your clients an Alaska few will ever get to see.

Choose from 7-day itineraries to fit a weeklong vacation, or in-depth 10 and 11-day voyages that explore the region beyond the ordinary cruise for your clients who have more time.

Denali Cruise Tours also available from 11 to 16 Days!

Your clients now have more flight options with our early AM departure from Papeete.

In response to guest feedback, we’ve changed our departure time from 6 pm on Day 1 to 5 am on Day 2 to include a shipboard overnight in Papeete. This allows you the flexibility to explore same day flight options.

Your clients who arrive early have time to head over to the food trucks frequented by locals at nearby Vaipoopoo Park, or stroll along the starry waterfront before spending the night on board. We will then sail to Moorea early in the morning to arrive at 8 am on Day 2 with a full day to explore this beautiful island.

Please note, if your clients booked the Star Collector: Twice the Tahiti or a back-to-back voyage, this change applies to one of the segments of the cruise but will not impact any other port.

As our thank you for your recommendation, you can earn $100 per booking bonus commission when booking a new-to-Windstar guest for reservations made through April 30, 2022. Take it from this Travel Advisor who showed her friends the way to Windstar!

Earn up to $150 bonus commission by completing our Star Specialist learning program. It only takes about an hour for us to show you why Windstar Cruises is perfect for your clients right now:

Immersive experiences - Our classic sailing and all-suite yachts can reach ports that others can’t – taking your clients to yacht harbors and secluded coves the big ships can’t reach.
Smaller yachts, better service - With just 148 to 342 guests aboard each yacht, we’re able to provide impeccable attention to detail and unmatched quality in both service and accommodations.
Deeper connections- We spend longer in each port with available overnight stays – enabling your clients to form more meaningful bonds with other travelers, crew, and even locals.
James Beard Foundation cuisine. - Award-winning chefs prepare each meal to a guest’s taste, incorporating local, port-to-plate ingredients to create authentic, delicious dishes every day.
Unrivaled amenities- Guests can relax and recharge with World Spa by Windstar – or swim, paddleboard, kayak, and jet ski complimentary from our Watersports Platform.

This short and informative course will give you the confidence to recommend us to your most discerning clients, and you will earn $50 bonus commission when completing each of three modules. Use it all on one booking or spread it out among three different reservations.

“I’m writing to let you know that I just love Wind Surf. The two friends who joined me on this cruise are totally hooked on Windstar and I’m sure they will be on the next group sailing that I put together.” -Debbie M., Zuzu Travel

Redeem Bonus Commission

One of your most valuable assets is first-hand experience that inspires trust and loyalty among your clients. As a Host, you will learn, grow within the range of your specialty, increase the scope of your ability, and represent a more diverse portfolio of products. Plus, you will increase your skill level booking, maintaining and escorting groups. We invite you to host with us. A professional Host facilitates and enhances the overall guest experience by acting as a social point of contact, fellow traveler and luxury concierge on behalf of all of your consortia’s members. They carefully select hosts for Windstar Cruises voyages to ensure the most passionate, professional and experienced individuals are selected. Windstar makes it easy to add hosting to your travel lifestyle. If you are a member of Ensemble Travel Group, Travel Leaders Group, Signature Travel Network or Virtuoso, inquire with them directly for the requirements and application process. “Being a host is a wonderful opportunity to meet interesting people from all over the globe. The experience is beyond rewarding visiting beautiful places and sharing the culture, food and new-found friendships with my group of guests, but also the ship’s exceptional staff and crew. Making the client’s experience the best it can be and giving them so much enjoyment is returned in many smiles and lasting memories for me.” -Susie D., experienced host with Signature Travel Network

Dear Travel Advisors,

When many Travel Advisors think of Windstar Cruises, they think of Tahiti. Chances are you’ve offered it to a client celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary. After all, what more romantic combination than Windstar Cruises and Tahiti?

Well, I’ve just personally returned from escorting some of our Club 180 members on the Star Breeze for our Dreams of Tahiti itinerary and I can tell you this destination is so aligned with our brand! Everyone one of our top producers enjoyed the daily surprise and delight of the lovely people and places that we experienced and the Star Breeze crew went above and beyond as all of our crew do, to provide that personalized service that is uniquely Windstar. We really do know the way!

Speaking of my recent cruise experience, I hope that many of you have also taken the opportunity in the recent months or have upcoming plans, to sail with us- there really is no better way to learn about our brand. We have seen that once an advisor has a personal experience onboard, it will translate into higher Windstar sales. It also serves as a great way to show your clients it is safe to cruise- you are truly leading by example.

While it was more complicated than normal in order for me to safely arrive at the Star Breeze in Tahiti (there were online forms and registrations and COVID PCR tests to complete ) – the point is, I arrived safely and stayed healthy throughout my journey along with all our guests. In fact, that’s the point- because of all of the pre-cruise protocols and Windstar’s Beyond Ordinary Care Program, everyone onboard the Star Breeze was confident we were in a safe environment, and it made our cruise that much more enjoyable.

Take the time to learn more about our Tahiti Cruises lower down in this newsletter or better yet, come join us!

Steven Simao, CTC
Vice President of Sales

Windstar’s Tahiti offers your clients these important benefits:

Tahiti is Gorgeous Year-Round—Windstar offers 7-, 10-, 11- and even 17- or 18-day itineraries nearly weekly. All departures sail round trip from Papeete, and itineraries 10-nights and longer include Fakarava UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
 
Popular Cruise + Air + Hotel Packages—Windstar partners with Air Tahiti Nui and the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa for the ultimate in value and convenience.
 
All-Inclusive Pricing—No, wait. This is the ultimate in value and convenience! Combine All-Inclusive Pricing to any offer or package for only $79 per guest, per day, to include unlimited alcoholic beverages, unlimited Wi-Fi and all gratuities.
 
2024 is Open for Booking—We are accepting reservations for all Tahiti sailings through August 29, 2024, so your clients can go ahead and set the date.
 
Celebrate Special Occasions—Windstar offers a lovely variety of gifts including champagne, long-stemmed roses, hors d’oeuvres, and logo wear. Couples spa packages are available and Wedding Vow Renewals are performed by the yacht’s Captain.
 
Complimentary Watersports Platform & Equipment—Windstar makes every island a private island when we offer swimming, kayaking paddle boarding and snorkeling right off the back the of the yacht. We will even fit guests with personal snorkeling equipment for their sole use throughout the cruise.
 
Signature Beach Party—Both guests and crew love our exclusive beach party, barbecue lunch, and Watersports Platform day at a private motu and lagoon.
 
Destination Discovery Event—Bora Bora: Celebration Festival, a specially prepared dinner feast on a private motu topped off with an expert fire dancing performance; it’s complimentary and just for guests of Windstar.
 
Culinary Immersion—Windstar chefs source ingredients locally and prepare fresh, culturally inspired cuisine. So your clients can also eat their way through their adventure with the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation. Dining aboard Windstar Cruises is always open seating and no charges are ever required.

Did you know that our Pick Your Perk Wave Promotion is applicable for all open deployment? Your clients can plan now, save now and travel when they are ready. Reserve now for Caribbean, Alaska, Europe and Canada & New England throughout 2022 & 2023, and Tahiti through 2024.

Up to $1,000 Onboard Credit or Up to 2 complimentary Easy Stays, which include hand-selected accommodations at premium hotels, hotel Wi-Fi, transfers between the hotel and yacht, resort fees and taxes and full sit-down gourmet breakfast.

Plus, we’ve reduced our normal deposit requirement of 15 percent to these low flat rates:

Itineraries 10 days and less — Reduced deposit now only $200 per guest
Itineraries 11-17 days — Reduced deposit now only $600 per guest
Itinerary 18 days and more — Reduced deposit now only $1,000 per guest

Sailings of 13 days and longer also receive complimentary laundry.

Choose All-Inclusive cruise pricing for only $79 extra per guest, per day, which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, unlimited Wi-Fi and all gratuities.

PICK YOUR PERK

A couple of weeks ago we began sending personal emails to guests booked on a Windstar sailing through June 30, 2022, inviting them to extend their vacation with a preceding or subsequent sailing, creating a back-to-back itinerary at a savings.

Call your clients! Travel Advisors are always encouraged to recommend back-to-back opportunities with Windstar. We infrequently repeat ports on many itineraries around the globe, and when compared to even a short hotel or resort stay, a Windstar voyage is a terrific value! Especially when you consider our All-Inclusive Pricing option as part of your quote.

Call Windstar Reservations at 800-258-7245.

Guests can now receive up to 50% off for select sailings if they book on board, or book another cruise with Windstar within 60 days of their disembarkation date, or by April 30, 2022, whichever is earlier.

Their Yacht Club membership always entitles your clients to a 5% savings, and an additional 5% when they book within 60 days of disembarkation. As an extra special thank you for joining us during this challenging time, we’re offering them up to 50% off select sailings in the Caribbean, Holy Lands, and Ocean Crossings, and 30% off select sailings in Greece, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Tahiti. Offer expires within 60 days of disembarkation and all discounts return to 5% after April 30, 2022.

Onboard Cruise Consultants ensure that when your clients take advantage of this offer while traveling the booking is immediately attributed to you and your agency.

SAILING LIST

We are deeply saddened by the news about Crystal Cruises and we understand the level of disappointment and concern this creates for you and your clients. At Windstar Cruises, our Travel Advisor family and cruise industry community are part of the fabric of our brand and our Star Promise. It is in this spirit we reach out in support of both.

If you are working with Crystal clients who are interested in another option for their vacation plans, please consider how Windstar Cruises can fulfill their needs and exceed their high expectations. We offer guests a luxurious experience, welcoming atmosphere, sincere and thoughtful service, and an intimate vacation that allows them to explore the world in a meaningful way. And now, they can make plans with Windstar and receive an exclusive 20 percent savings + reduced deposit as low as $200 per guest on all 2022 departures. Note: This offer is excluded from our current Pick Your Perk promotion.

Whether you are new to Windstar, or a seasoned Windstar sailor, spend just a few minutes with our Advisor Hub and give us a call at 800-258-7245 to learn how we can help you. Your sales team is also looking forward to hearing from you.

LEARN MORE

In an effort to create as safe and healthy an environment as possible, and comply with the requirements of the countries we visit, we are now utilizing a double barrier protection approach to testing.

Guests will need to obtain a negative PCR test on their own 72 hours prior to embarkation and report to a Windstar testing site the night before, or the morning of, embarkation. We are communicating with guests and their Travel Advisors via an Operational Letter transmitted from Guest Services.

Test 1: Guests are required to obtain a negative PCR test within 72 hours of embarkation and before the Windstar procured test occurs. Tests must be performed by an accredited facility and home test kits are not accepted. If there is a cost for this test it will be at the guest’s expense.

Test 2: Windstar is procuring a pre-embarkation PCR test, which has replaced the pre-embarkation antigen test. In an effort to speed the wait time for the testing result we are offering testing the night before, and on the morning of, embarkation, depending on the location. This test is performed complimentary by Windstar.

Please note that any additional testing that is required while traveling can be handled on board, and the cost will be added to the guest’s shipboard account as follows: $69 for each antigen test and $135 for each PCR test.

For added peace of mind, please know that we continue to test each crew member every week with a PCR test. We also require all guest-facing crew members to wear KN95 masks, or double mask with surgical quality masks, both indoors and outdoors at all times.

HEALTH & SAFETY

There is a temporary pause in dinner with the Captain and Senior Officers for 3-Star and 4-Star Yacht Club Members due to COVID-19 protocols. An exclusive wine-tasting is being substituted for 4-Star guests at this time.

VIEW BENEFITS

Travel Advisors are very important to Windstar Cruises, and we want to welcome you on board.

We appreciate your commitment to your profession and to the cruise industry, and you deserve an opportunity to relax and recharge. Our Sell Two & You Sail, Too incentive is the perfect way to reunite with your clients, friends and family, and pay only taxes and gratuities for your stateroom.

You still have time to earn a FREE cruise for yourself and a guest aboard one of our yachts. Don’t miss this opportunity! The booking window ends March 31, 2022.

FULL DETAILS & REDEMPTION INFO

Recommend Windstar Cruises to your clients who have enjoyed river cruises, safaris, ski trips, city stays, national parks, villa or house rentals, boat charters and all-inclusive resorts.

Through April 30, 2022, you can earn $100 per booking bonus commission for each new-to-Windstar reservation.

 Ask for referrals! Through February 28, 2022, your clients who are Yacht Club Members can earn double the referral bonus and receive $200 onboard credit for each friend they send your way. Their friend also receives $200 onboard credit, and these guests are not obligated to travel together.

There are many reasons why Windstar Cruises is perfect for your clients right now:

Private yacht-style cruising with only 148-342 guests.
Three newly refreshed classic sailing yachts, Wind Surf, Wind Spirit & Wind Star featuring 188 square foot staterooms.
Perfectly sized, perfectly appointed staterooms and suites, all with ocean views.
Intimate access to 330 of the world’s more unique ports.
More than 2,000 authentic shore excursions for genuine local experiences.
Onboard guides, naturalists and guest lecturers.
Our friendly crew, anticipatory hospitality and informal and unpretentious ambiance.
Beyond Ordinary Care Program and Travel Assurance Booking Policy for additional safety and peace of mind.
World-class chef-inspired cuisine and the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation.
An experience that’s 180° from ordinary.

Dear Travel Advisors,

While these are challenging times, Windstar Cruises is meeting them head on. We have been sailing successfully since June 2021, and we are continually monitoring COVID-related travel policies. We have adapted and updated our protocols and practices swiftly to continue to keep everyone healthy in this ever-changing environment.

While we’re temporarily forced to cancel some Caribbean cruises, we are still sailing in Tahiti with Star Breeze while Wind Spirit completes a scheduled dry dock. We will resume our Caribbean itineraries as soon as it makes sense to do so, and we anticipate Star Pride to enter service on time in April 2022 in Greece and Turkey.

 At Windstar Cruises we take your clients’ needs very seriously. We are carefully adhering to our Beyond Ordinary Care plan to keep guests healthy aboard, and protect people in the communities we visit. And we have just extended our Travel Assurance Booking Policy through June 30, 2022, and final payments 60 days prior to sailing, so your clients can plan to travel knowing their investment is protected. We will continue to make adjustments when necessary, and we are fortunate that our small yachts have the flexibility to visit small ports not available to large ships.

When your clients are ready to act on their New Year’s resolutions to travel, we know they want to do so comfortably, safely and with peace of mind. At Windstar, we resolve every day to deliver an experience that is 180 degrees from ordinary.

Thank you for your support and Smooth Sailing!

Steven Simao, CTC
Vice President of Sales

Windstar's Travel Assurance Booking Policy protects your clients’ vacation investment if their plans need to change. Travelers with a cruise departing through June 30, 2022, may make final payment 60 days prior to sailing and cancel up to 48 hours prior to departure, and receive a Future Cruise Credit in the amount of the cancellation fees collected excluding fees collected for air, transportation, hotels, and land cruise tours.

The Future Cruise Credit must be used within 24 months of certificate issuance on any future Windstar cruise. Future Cruise Credits are non-transferable and have no cash value. Windstar reserves the right to modify or terminate this policy at any time for bookings not yet made.

Plan Now, Save Now and Travel When You’re Ready

Pick Your Perk + Refundable Reduced Deposit — January 4 - February 28, 2022

And starting January 20 we’ve added Refundable Reduced Deposit to make it even easier to plan now! We’ve reduced our normal deposit requirement of 15 percent to these low flat rates, but only for a limited time!

Itineraries 10 days and less — Reduced deposit now only $200 per guest
Itineraries 11-17 days — Reduced deposit now only $600 per guest
Itinerary 18 days and more — Reduced deposit now only $1,000 per guest
 
Sailings of 13 days and longer also receive complimentary laundry.

Choose All-Inclusive cruise pricing for only $79 extra per guest, per day, which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, unlimited Wi-Fi and all gratuities.
 
Yacht Club Members double referral bonus: receive $200 USD Onboard Credit per guest for each new-to-Windstar guest.

Travel Advisors referral bonus: receive $100 per booking bonus commission when booking a new-to-Windstar guest.

Windstar Cruises wants to be the small ship cruise line you recommend to your clients. Star Legend is proud to be named one of Conde Nast’s favorite cruise ships in the world, independently selected by their editors.

“Last year, Windstar Cruises upped Star Legend’s razzle-dazzle, stretching the casually elegant yacht (don’t overpack) to add a larger pool, more deck space, a remodeled spa and fitness center, and two new restaurants (Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso presents delightful modern tapas like paella croquettes; barbecue guru Steven Raichlen’s Star Grill by Steven Raichlen slow cooks drool-worthy Texan brisket). All-suite accommodations sport glam new granite baths. In a Star suite with queen beds positioned next to French balconies, expect staggering star sightings after dark. But with 312 passengers, securing cushioned loungers, crew attention, and all reservations prove easy-peasy. Let the chef know a day ahead if you’re craving chicken curry; he’ll satiate nearly any hankering come dinnertime. Star Legend easily maneuvers into teeny Med and Caribbean ports, avoiding big ships and their crowds. The Watersports Platform, stocked with toys like kayaks, paddleboards, and floating mats, and the open-air Deck 8 Star Bar are perpetual hangouts, and the spirited onboard barbecue delivers a feast and a bash.”

A Delicious Pairing: Windstar Cruises & the James Beard Foundation 2022 Voyages

Fine dining has always been one of the pillars of the Windstar experience. Aboard James Beard Foundation voyages your clients can cruise with a culinary superstar and learn firsthand how Windstar turns the freshest local ingredients into mouthwatering creations. They’ll enjoy market tours with the Chef, taste local specialties and experiment with new flavors.

Each cruise features a hosted dinner with the Chef, including wine pairings and demonstrations by the Chef. Featured voyages for 2022 are:

In the Wake of the Spanish Armadas, 8 days aboard Wind Surf from Aruba to Colón sailing February 6, 2022 featuring Chef Jennifer Hill Booker, cookbook author & culinary explorer (GA).
West Coast Epicurean Extravaganza, 10 days aboard Star Breeze from San Diego to Vancouver departing May 10, 2022 with Chef Tanya Holland, Brown Sugar Kitchen (San Francisco, CA)
Southeast Canadian Explorations, 11 days on Star Pride from Montreal to Boston on October 12, 2022 sailing with Chef Irene Li, Mei Mei (Boston, MA)
 
The James Beard Foundation is an organization committed to celebrating, nurturing and honoring chefs and other leaders making America’s food culture more delicious, diverse and sustainable for everyone. Our partnership extends beyond the dining room to a wide range of culinary events and activities that help guests connect more intimately with local cultures. We’re able to work with some of the best chefs to create the extraordinary dishes on our nightly menu and in our culinary demos. Nearly three dozen chefs have sailed with us on our culinary-themed cruises.

Windstar Cruises Names Karl Gulotta Corporate Executive Chef

We are proud to announce that Windstar Cruises has hired Karl Gulotta as our new corporate executive chef. The position directs Windstar’s onboard culinary operations department to achieve the highest levels of guest satisfaction and product consistency. Together with our director of food and beverage operations, Gulotta will be instrumental in setting the tone, look, and feel of all culinary operations, ensuring they align with Windstar’s high standards, commitment to sustainable practices, devotion to regional menus and products, and our ongoing relationship as the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation.

Gulotta, who speaks English, French, and Spanish, is originally from Marseilles, France. He most recently worked with French cruise ship operator Ponant as executive chef, where he executed menus and recipes from acclaimed Chef Alain Ducasse. He previously held high-level culinary positions with Disney Cruise Line, and a litany of land-based fine dining establishments, with more than five with Michelin stars, located around the globe.

Jovan Culibrk is Appointed Fleet Restaurant & Beverage Operations Manager

It is with pleasure that we also announce the appointment of Jovan Culibrk as our new Fleet Restaurant & Beverage Operations Manager overseeing the front-of-the-house Food & Beverage areas. Jovan started his career on board ships with Celebrity Cruises, then joined Seabourn Cruise Line where he worked for more than eight years. Most recently, Jovan was involved in new build projects for Hurtigruten Cruises and also instrumental in shaping the food and beverage operation for a family-owned American restaurant business in the Naples, Florida area.

Sail with us and start 2022 with a new story to tell. Our Sell Two & You Sail, Too incentive is still available. Sell two cruises sailing now through March 31, 2022 and you will earn a FREE cruise for yourself and a guest aboard one of our yachts. Learn more on Advisor Hub.

Plus Windstar’s Travel Advisor Appreciation Rates provide exceptional opportunities for advisors to experience Windstar’s award-winning products and extraordinary destinations. Many popular sailings in the Caribbean, Tahiti and Ocean Crossings are offered now through April 2022. More details and application instructions can be found on the Advisor Hub.

 Hear from these advisors who have recently experienced Windstar Cruises for the first time:

◆    "Windstar is truly a luxury product on all levels from the check-in to the disembarkation. The staff and entire crew go above and beyond the call of duty. I am impressed that so many of the staff remember my name and addressed me by name throughout the sailing. The dining room service was by far some of the best that I have experienced compared to other luxury brands. The Veranda Café was my absolute favorite for breakfast. I loved the wait staff up there and had so many great conversations with many of them."

-Lorenzo, Valerie Wilson Travel

◆    "I wanted to thank you for the incredible experience that I had with Windstar. It was truly something that I cannot wait to sell to my clients. The Windstar crew are people that I will never forget."

-Barrett, Strong Travel Services

◆    "I wanted to take a moment to praise the entire staff on Wind Surf. We have taken 25+ cruises in our life and this trip was either at the top, or very near it, as far as how the staff treated us. We felt like royalty. We were also impressed with the safety protocols on board. I will not have any issues recommending Windstar to my clients and friends who otherwise might be reluctant to take a cruise due to the pandemic."

-Dave, Town & Country Travel

◆    Clients are reluctant to cruise with the new CDC warnings regarding cruise ships. Cruising is probably the safest place right now. I have told clients I just returned from an amazing week on Windstar in December and plan to travel on another cruise this winter. If you show people by doing it yourself, maybe some lose their fear!

-Joanne, Holiday Travel

Traditionally, Windstar Cruises commission levels are based on the prior year’s sales production. We know that every year since 2019 has been extraordinary and not in a good 180 Degrees from Ordinary kinda way. We also know that Travel Advisors truly know the way to selling Windstar Cruises to your clients and your hard work and recommendation of our brand is appreciated. To that end, we are pleased to share with you that for 2022 we do not plan to make any changes to commission levels based on last year’s sales results. We will continue to honor the commission level you earned based on 2019, the last full year of typical sales results. Therefore, you can continue to recommend Windstar Cruises to your clients knowing your commission level will be preserved.

Regardless of the challenges we face, Windstar Cruises remains committed to Travel Advisors. We know that your clients trust your recommendations, and we want to be your first choice for small ship luxury cruising.

And as our most important partner, we want to make sure you get the support you need. Our Star Promise is a commitment to our travel partners to continue to work hard to make what you do easier. Your success is our success and all of us at Windstar Cruises strive to deliver a robust partnership that creates mutually beneficial opportunities.

Extraordinary guest experiences
Fresh sales tools and support
Outstanding educational programs
Excellent advisor service

In 2022, here's to a collaboration that helps us each shine more brightly!

Dear Travel Advisors, Seas & Greetings from Windstar Cruises! It is a sincere pleasure to extend our wishes to you and your family for sunny skies, calm seas, and full sails this Holiday Season.   Did you know the holidays are a perfect time to sell luxury travel? It’s true, and Windstar Knows the Way! Clients who are planning now are serious; they have more time and are spending it with loved ones reminiscing, dreaming and planning. Luxury travelers aren’t forced to make a choice between holiday spending and planning future travel; they can afford to do both right now. Plus, advisors have less competition because many colleagues may be taking time off; so, it’s a great time to pick up new business.   And Windstar Cruises wants to be your small ship cruise line of choice. During our 12 Ways of Windstar Sale, through December 28, 2021, not only are we offering great sale rates, we also list the Top 12 Reasons why now is the best time to recommend Windstar Cruises to your valuable prospects and clients. As you prepare for 2022, commit to leveraging these advantages by including Windstar Cruises in your product portfolio. Introduce us to your clients who love river cruises, all-inclusive resorts and small-group touring.   We have a lot to celebrate:

• Our return to cruising in your clients’ most popular destinations including Greece, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and Tahiti; • Two classes of ships now sailing in Tahiti, our classic sailing yacht, Wind Spirit, and our all-suite Star Plus Class yacht, Star Breeze; • The completion of our $250 Million Star Plus Initiative, a transformation of our all-suite, Star Plus Class vessels, Star Breeze, Star Legend & Star Pride, featuring new suites, dining opportunities and outdoor spaces. • The introduction of the choice between Cruise Only and All-Inclusive fares, making it easier for you to recommend the convenience and carefree advantages of an all-inclusive experience early in your client’s decision making.

Windstar is committed to working with Travel Advisors and Star Promise is our commitment to you. Your success is our success, and all of us at Windstar Cruises strive to deliver a robust partnership that creates mutually beneficial opportunities such as extraordinary guest experiences, fresh sales tools and support, outstanding educational programs and excellent advisor service.   Plus, our Travel Assurance Booking Policy and Beyond Ordinary Care Program give you and your clients the peace of mind you both need to plan their next adventure. We have now been sailing with guests since June and our protocols are working very well.   And as always, Windstar Cruises’ Team is dedicated to you. We continue to build and strengthen our Sales and Marketing teams to ensure that you are well equipped and supported. While we are reflecting on our accomplishments, we aren’t resting on them. Windstar Cruises is hard at work for you as we look forward to our future together. Cheers, Happy Holidays and Smooth Sailing!   Steven Simao, CTC Vice President of Sales

At Windstar Cruises, the health and safety of everyone on board is a top priority. The Beyond Ordinary Care Program is a multi-layered strategy designed to provide a healthy environment while sailing on a Windstar yacht. This program includes: 

•     vaccine requirement for all guests and crew;
•     complimentary antigen testing at the pier during embarkation with negative test results required to embark;
•     weekly crew testing;
•     hospital-grade HEPA air filters and UV-C ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to disinfect the air;
•     electrostatic sprayers to sanitize all surfaces throughout the yacht;
•     COVID-19 testing facilities on board all yachts supporting a dynamic travel environment;
•     Pre-disembarkation testing as a convenience for guests on their journey home.

Plus, our Travel Assurance Booking Policy protects your clients’ vacation investment if their plans need to change. Travelers with a cruise departing on or before March 31, 2022, may cancel up to 48 hours prior to departure and receive a Future Cruise Credit in the amount of the cancellation fees collected excluding fees collected for air, transportation, and hotels. All Future Cruise Credits must be used within 24 months of issuance on another Windstar departure.

Please take note of our COVID-19 testing policy, with changes going into effect on January 1, 2022. As a convenience for our guests, Windstar Cruises has arranged COVID testing facilities on board our yachts. All guests will receive a free COVID-19 antigen test at the pier prior to embarkation and a negative result is needed to embark. 
 
We have recently updated our Health & Safety FAQ’s to answer new questions, such as, what would happen if a guest tests positive at embarkation or at any time during the cruise, and the CDC testing requirements for returning to the U.S.
 
On some cruises additional COVID tests may be needed in select ports of call during the cruise to meet local regulatory requirements. PCR tests must be administered by an accredited facility, and beginning January 1, 2022, Windstar will provide these tests for our guests’ convenience. Windstar can also provide any required PCR tests for $135 per guest, and antigen tests for $69 per guest, the day before disembarkation to meet requirements to return home or journey onward. The cost will be added to each guest’s shipboard account.
 

SEE FULL POLICY AND TRAVEL ADVISORY UPDATES

Windstar Knows the Way now to the best savings on our most popular destinations including Greece, the Mediterranean, Tahiti, and the Caribbean. During our 12 Ways of Windstar Sale, through December 28, 2021, clients can follow their wanderlust to these popular destinations and more. The 12 Ways of Windstar are the Top 12 reasons why now is the time to recommend Windstar Cruises. 

1.     Three newly refreshed classic sailing yachts, Wind Surf, Wind Spirit & Wind Star.
2.     Three newly transformed all-suite Star Plus Class yachts, Star Breeze, Star Legend & Star Pride.
3.     Intimate access to 330 of the world’s more unique ports.
4.     1.5 to 1 guest to crew ratio.
5.     Beyond Ordinary Care Program for additional safety.
6.     All ocean view staterooms and suites.
7.     World-class chef-inspired cuisine and the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation.
8.     Anticipatory hospitality and personalized service.
9.     Private yacht-style cruising with only 148-342 guests.
10.     More than 2,500 authentic shore excursions for genuine local experiences.
11.     Onboard guides, naturalists and guest lecturers.
12.     An experience that’s 180° from Ordinary.

The pleasure playgrounds of the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Tahiti are perfect for Windstar’s private yacht-style cruising with only 148-342 guests. Plus, only Windstar Cruises offers the choice between two styles of cruising: our classic sailing yachts, Wind Surf, Wind Star and Wind Spirit, or our all-suite Star Plus Class yachts, Star Breeze, Star Legend and Star Pride. Windstar yachts are perfectly sized to go where the big ships can’t, so your clients experience the world more intimately, more authentically and more personally.

On Windstar Cruises, our warm welcoming atmosphere and beautifully appointed yachts will make your clients feel right at home. Large enough to pamper, and small enough to call in yacht harbors, find hidden coves and secluded beaches, Windstar Cruises offers the authentic and immersive experience your clients expect and deserve. In partnership with the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers the creativity of many chefs, not just one, locally sourced ingredients, culinary excursions and all open seating with no reservations required. Plus, our friendly crew will genuinely do all they can to ensure your clients' complete satisfaction. 
 

SEE 12 WAYS OF WINDSTAR SALE

Thank you for honoring Windstar Cruises for the third year in a row! Earlier this month the Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards named Windstar Cruises as Best Small Ship Cruise Line Under 500 Berths for the third consecutive year! Thank you for being our partners in travel and trusting us with your clients. We’re proud to provide extraordinary guest experiences as part of our Star Promise to you. A promise made is a promise kept, and we’re just getting started. Wait until you see what we have in store next!

The Sales Coordinator is the primary point of contact person within the sales department for our valued travel agency partners. Brenda Skogen has been helping people travel the world her entire career. She most recently owned a cruise-focused franchise travel agency- so she understands where you are coming from! 

She has vacationed and cruised dozens of times, sailing with multiple cruise lines from luxury ships to fun ships. Her fascination for places was born in her early twenties when she enjoyed an extended stay in Greece living in a small northern village just south of the Yugoslavian border. While Yugoslavia does not even exist as a country anymore, this excursion developed her desire to meet new people, see unusual places, and learn all about their cultures and history. 

Her professional experiences have included organizing large groups and complex independent custom trips in addition to managing large corporate travel programs in multi-national locations. In her most recent endeavor, she encouraged and mentored more than 50 people who wanted to begin their own travel industry journey as Travel Advisors. She believes there is always another voyage to experience. Her love of traveling and more importantly her excitement about helping others experience this amazing world in which we live grows with each new adventure.

We want you to sail with us and start off 2022 with a new story to tell. This is the perfect time to reunite with your clients, friends and family, or leave it all behind for a private getaway. Don’t miss this opportunity to treat yourself and a guest to a complimentary cruise, booking window ends March 31, 2022. 

Sell two Windstar cruises departing by March 31, 2022 and complete the submission form. Advisor’s free cruise is available on any sailing of 8 days or less taken by March 31, 2022 and full payment on both bookings is not required before Advisor sails. Rebooked reservations from voyages canceled by Windstar Cruises will count toward the two bookings required.

Over the past two years we know that you have relied even more on social media to stay in touch. As part of our Star Promise, Windstar Cruises has partnered with Branchup™. BranchUp will keep your Facebook Business Page fresh with inspiration and generate leads. 
 
Through BranchUp Windstar does the work for you! Every month we feature a variety of popular and exotic travel experiences with interesting content and new offers. Your Facebook Business Page is automatically updated and your clients can Like, Share and Click. And when they do, you are notified with a new lead to follow up on! All of the clicks come straight back to you via a landing page where your photo and contact information are front and center. 
 
BranchUp is free to you. There is no cost to sign up, no monthly fee, and you can view upcoming posts, customize the text and select which posts to publish at any time. With BranchUp you get personalized, free Facebook marketing that builds engagement and generates business. 
 

LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP TODAY

Does your client have an outstanding FCC? Please check the expiration date and encourage them to plan now with these important benefits: 

1.     FCCs can used as deposit on their next Windstar adventure.
2.     The FCC value also applies to non-discountable amounts and taxes, fees & port expenses.
3.     FCCs are fully commissionable to you.
4.     You can apply them online at bookWindstarOnline. Instructions are available here. 

Upgrade their experience by recommending All-Inclusive pricing to include unlimited alcoholic beverages, unlimited Wi-Fi and all gratuities for extra value. It’s only $79 per guest, per day and always offered, always available.
 
The expiration date of all FCCs is found on the letter Windstar provided and at the current moment there are no plans to extend the expiration date. Don’t leave money on the table!