Tips If You Sail On The Windstar Star Legend Cruise
When planning a luxury cruise around the Mediterranean, you should truly consider the Windstar Star Legend. There are maximum 312 passengers on board and the crew goes above and beyond to tend to your needs, so it is is the definition of a stress-free vacation. No crowds, no pressure to dress up (unless you want to), and the ability to enjoy each port of call by simply walking off the ship. Even debarkation was a breeze.
When I was invited to experience a Mediterranean Winter cruise aboard the Star Legend, I knew it would be special, yet it completely surpassed my expectations. From the moment we checked in at the World Trade Center terminal in Barcelona, we were greeted by smiles and offers to help. After checking out our suite, we went to have lunch at the buffet, which had ample outdoor seating. We then toured the spa and learned we could enjoy the heated thermal chairs, sauna and steam room at anytime during our cruise. It was only the beginning of a fabulous and relaxing week.
Embarking on a journey aboard the Windstar Star Legend cruise ship is not just about traveling from one destination to another; it’s about indulging in an experience that blends the thrill of exploration with the utmost in stylish comfort and luxury.
From its sleek design to the array of upgraded amenities and personalized touches, the Star Legend offers a very elevated experience to its cruisers, in great part thanks to its crew.
Led by Captain Mark Symonds, Hotel General Manager Wilhelm Steinbrunner, Executive Chef Gavin Anthony Baxter, Chief Purser Royston Jadhav, and Chief Housekeeper Hadi Saptono, we encountered outstanding service throughout the cruise.
Tips for your Star Legend Cruise
Here are my top tips for making the most of your voyage on Windstar’s Star Legend:
1. Embrace the Luxury of Your Suite
Windstar Cruises has redefined luxury with its meticulous attention to detail in the Star Legend staterooms. All the suites are spacious and have luxurious Egyptian cotton linens, filtered water that is replenished as often as needed, and a fully stocked mini bar.
Bathrooms have two sinks, a full-size tub and L’Occitane toiletries. There are a few balcony suites with beautiful ocean views, a separate living room, and French doors that open to the fresh sea air. The suites are designed for the ultimate relaxation, complete with new bathrooms and walk-in closets, where you will find an embroidered waffle-weave robe.
The fresh flowers added such a nice touch to our suite and we were also delighted by the fresh fruit bowl awaiting us as soon as we embarked. We stayed in the midship section on deck 5, which was super convenient.
2. Discover Culinary Excellence
Windstar Star Legend is the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, a partnership that promises an inventive take on cruise dining. From the alfresco ambiance of the Star Grill by Steven Raichlen to the refined touches of Amphora, every meal is an adventure in itself.
Innovative dishes and new dining venues helmed by famous chefs like acclaimed chef Anthony Sasso at his signature restaurant Cuadro44 ensure that your palate is always treated to exquisite flavors.
Enjoy the open seating policy at the main dining restaurant, Amphora, which allows for flexible dining times and the opportunity to savor each meal at your own pace. Take advantage of the great wine list. Even the wines included in the beverage package were wonderful! You can also find top wines like Caymus at an extra charge.
3. Don’t Forget Self-Care!
The new spa and fitness center aboard the Star Legend are sanctuaries of health and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for an invigorating workout in the fitness area or a luxurious treatment in the world spa, these facilities are designed to rejuvenate your body and spirit.
You should also make time to relax in the heated pool after your busy day exploring European cities and towns, or just enjoy the heated whirpools
4. Enjoy The Yacht Club
Go to the Yacht Club on Deck 8 to enjoy gorgeous ocean views and the upscale ambiance while you drink your morning cappuccino or have an afternoon snack after your shore excursion. Just know that last call for sandwiches and sweet treats like scones, cake and tarts is 6 pm. Even when it’s too late for snacks, this was the perfect spot for socializing. We saw so many passengers playing cards, reading books or just making new friends in this wonderful space.
5. Have Fun at Night
Yes, there is entertainment aboard the Star Legend! Live music and performances by local musicians add a vibrant touch to your evenings, while you enjoy your favorite beverage at the Compass Rose or the Lounge. My personal favorite was the crew’s farewell show. I almost didn’t go but felt in debt to the amazing crew members that had made sure our cruise was wonderful and I am so happy to have seen the performances. I also laughed so hard during some of the skits.
6. Book your Shore Excursions Early
The Star Legend’s small ship advantage, akin to its sister ships Star Breeze and Star Pride, means you can enjoy intimate shore excursions that are meticulously planned for immersive experiences. That means that some shore excursions might sell out during peak season. That’s why my tip is to book early, as soon as you know what you would like to explore at each port of call.
We went on the Concierge Collection Wine & Cheese tour in Aix-en-Provence and it was a fabulous way to get a taste of this beautiful town an hour away from Marseille. Our guide, Beatrice, was knowledgeable, funny and full of tips so we could explore Aix on our own once we finished the wine tasting.
7. Order Room Service
Windstar Cruises include room service at no extra charge even on debarkation morning. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast every single morning in our stateroom, including fresh omelettes, French toast, pancakes, freshly squeezed orange juice, and cappuccinos.
At night you can order from the main dining menu but we did not, since the dining room experience was so wonderful.
8. Leave the Sequins and Black Tie At Home
This intimate cruise is upscale but you won’t find any gala nights that require evening gowns or a tuxedo. I found this so liberating! The Windstar crowd tends to be well-dressed, but in a business casual kind of way. Dark, unripped jeans are more than okay, but you can totally dress up more if you feel like it.
9. Make the Most of Port Overnight Stays
One of many of the Star Legend’s differentiating factors is that it stays overnight at several ports of call. During our cruise, we stayed overnight at Barcelona, Nice and Civitavecchia (a little over an hour outside of Rome), which provides you with the opportunity to get a full day of exploring with no rush.
You can also have dinner at local restaurants if you want to try something different. We went to Barcelona’s Compartir (we booked weeks in advance) and it was lovely to be able to go back to our ship at leisure. In Nice, many cruisers went to Monaco and Montecarlo at night, something you cannot do on other ships since they sail away in the evening.
10. Take Advantage of On Board Special Promotions
You will find special promotions each day on the Windstar Wayfinder; we took advantage of a Spa Package for multiple treatments. If you loved your cruise, take advantage of promotions on board to book your next cruise. You will get a free onboard credit among other perks. Also, if you enjoy wine, I highly recommend paying for the all-inclusive package so you don’t worry about drinks, wifi or tips.
11. Don’t Miss The Sailing Away Flag Ceremony
Make sure to watch the sailing away flag ceremony at least once during your cruise. It is so solemn and a must-do. The 1492 music only adds to how special this moment is!
A cruise on the Windstar Star Legend is an exploration of luxury, adventure, and the intimate feel of a small ship, enriched by the Windstar Star Legend’s elegance and the array of new suites, venues, and experiences. From the plush comforts of your suite accommodation to the fun shore excursions and the serene moments spent on the deck overlooking the European ports of call, every aspect of your journey will help you recharge and create unforgettable memories.
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All photos: Jeannette Kaplun
