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Windstar: Discover Europe Like Never Before

  • Writer: McNellis Travel Team
    McNellis Travel Team
  • Jan 22
  • 3 min read

Windstar Cruises – New Winter Itineraries Mean You Can Experience the Med Like a Local

Booking Period: Today – 3/31/2026

Travel Period: Today – 3/31/2027

Vacation Code: 4102


Boutique Cruising That Brings You Closer

Windstar Cruises invites you to experience Europe in a way large ships simply can’t. Their fleet of intimate yachts and iconic sailing vessels access smaller ports, hidden harbors, and charming seaside towns, delivering an experience rooted in authenticity and connection.


With fewer guests onboard and a relaxed, refined atmosphere, Windstar’s winter Mediterranean sailings allow travelers to slow down and explore iconic destinations with fewer crowds. Wander historic streets, linger in local cafés, and experience cultural immersion along Europe’s coastline—all while enjoying the luxury of space, time, and freedom.


This isn’t just a cruise. It’s Europe, unrushed.


Introducing Local Season: Winter in the Mediterranean

Windstar’s new winter itineraries showcase Europe at its most authentic.

Why Winter is the Best Time to Sail the Med

  • Fewer crowds at major landmarks and historic sites

  • Mild, comfortable weather ideal for walking tours and sightseeing

  • Festive winter markets and seasonal celebrations

  • New ports and overnight stays not offered in peak summer months

Destinations like Naples, Catania, Genoa, and Livorno shine during the winter, offering deeper cultural engagement and a true insider feel.


Cruise Beyond: Elevate Your Experience

When booking select Windstar sailings through our agency, you can pair your voyage with Cruise Beyond, unlocking premium perks designed to enhance every moment of your journey.

Cruise Beyond Perks May Include:

  • Up to $1,000 onboard credit per guest

  • Complimentary pre-cruise hotel night and ship transfer

  • The Beyond Inclusive Package, including Wi-Fi, select beverages, and gratuities


What’s Included with Windstar Cruises

With just 148–342 guests per yacht, Windstar delivers a warm, personalized onboard experience with thoughtful inclusions:

  • Market Tours with the ship’s Chef (select voyages)

  • Locally inspired cuisine and specialty dining

  • 24-hour room service

  • Navigation lessons and crew meet-and-greets

  • Signature onboard BBQ

  • Enriching lectures on history, culture, and wildlife

  • Nightly port talks and local entertainment

  • Unlimited sodas, bottled water, specialty coffee & tea

  • Complimentary yoga classes and cooking demonstrations

  • The Marina with kayaks, paddleboards, and floating platforms (select voyages)



Featured Sailings

Sorrento, Italy

24-Day Star Collector: Winter Mediterranean Adventure

Departs February 12, 2026 | Star Legend

Venice to Barcelona

This extended voyage explores the Mediterranean’s southern shores from the Adriatic to Gibraltar. Visit winter markets in Croatia, enjoy hands-on culinary experiences in Naples, explore Pompeii, and benefit from milder weather across Spain.

Insider Highlight: In Spain, enjoy seasonal sweets like churros with chocolate and turrón.


Barcelona, Spain

7-Day Southern Spain Winter Escapes

Departs February 27, 2026 | Star Legend

Roundtrip Barcelona

Explore Gaudí’s architecture, take part in an exclusive cooking class, sample regional wines, and enjoy tapas culture along Spain’s southern coast.

Agency Exclusive: Up to $300 Shipboard CreditInsider Highlight: Visit Colònia Güell, a lesser-known Gaudí masterpiece.


Dubrovnik, Croatia

14-Day Star Collector: A Winter Muse in the Mediterranean

Departs March 23, 2026 | Star Legend

Venice to Athens

A poetic journey through historic ports, blending cuisine, culture, and slower winter rhythms.

Insider Highlight: Catch a Santorini sunrise from Oia with minimal crowds.


Athens, Greece

8-Day Winter in Italy and the Adriatic

Departs March 31, 2026 | Star Legend

Rome to Athens

Discover Italy in winter—less crowded, more local, and deeply rewarding.

Insider Highlight: Visit Herculaneum, a remarkably preserved Roman city buried by Vesuvius.


Barcelona, Spain

7-Day Europe’s Winter Riviera

Departs January 15, 2027 | Star Explorer

Barcelona to Rome

Sail a glamorous stretch of the Mediterranean with overnight stays in Livorno and Barcelona.

Insider Highlight: Experience Florence’s masterpieces without peak-season crowds.


Plan Your Windstar Cruise with McNellis Travel

Windstar’s winter itineraries are capacity controlled, and boutique sailings fill quickly. We help travelers in Lithia Springs, GA and surrounding communities choose the ideal itinerary, unlock Cruise Beyond perks, and enjoy Europe in its most authentic season.


👉 Request your Windstar Cruises quote with McNellis Travel today and experience Europe like a local.

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