Windstar Cruises has announced a significant expansion in French Polynesia, with the return of its classic sailing yacht Wind Star to Tahitian waters from March 2027.
The four-masted vessel will join the all-suite Star Breeze for year-round operations, marking Windstar’s most extensive deployment in the South Pacific to date. This strategic move will see the line offer more departure dates and greater itinerary variety than any other cruise operator in the region, reaffirming its long-standing connection to Tahiti.
Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises, said the return of Wind Star underscores the company’s deep affinity for the destination, offering guests a choice between the romantic charm of a traditional sailing yacht and the modern comforts of an all-suite ship. Whether travelling by sail or suite, guests can expect Windstar’s signature laid-back luxury and immersive cultural experiences across every journey.
Choice of sails or suites on tailored Tahiti itineraries
Guests will now have two distinct ways to experience the islands of Tahiti. The intimate Wind Star, accommodating just 148 guests, will operate the seven-night Dreams of Tahiti itinerary with weekly Monday departures. Each voyage includes a visit to Raiatea, the sacred island regarded as the ancestral homeland of the Māori people—an exclusive inclusion not typically found on other seven-day itineraries in the region.
In contrast, the 312-guest Star Breeze will focus on extended explorations to more remote corners of the South Pacific, including the Tuamotus, Marquesas, Fiji and the Cook Islands. These sailings can be combined into Star Collector Voyages of up to 21 days, allowing for deeper cultural immersion and a broader discovery of Polynesia’s diverse archipelagos.
New experiences and enhancements from 2027
Windstar’s dual-ship presence in French Polynesia will result in the highest number of Tahiti departures of any cruise line. In 2027, guests can also take advantage of a new “early goodbye” disembarkation, with ships arriving in Papeete at 20:00 the night before the scheduled end of the cruise. This change provides added flexibility, especially for travellers with late-night flights.
On board, guests will enjoy the introduction of AquaBanas at the marina platform—floating private lounges complete with sunshades, tables and chairs, offering a resort-style relaxation space directly off the yacht. These enhancements are designed to elevate the at-sea experience and maximise time spent in the turquoise waters of French Polynesia.
Cultural connection at every turn
True to Windstar’s destination-immersive style, the Tahiti programme offers a rich selection of cultural experiences both on board and ashore. The line’s exclusive Destination Discovery Event, Polynesian Feast + Fire, treats guests to an unforgettable evening on a private motu with traditional fire dancing, island cuisine and live Tahitian music under the stars.
On board, a Cultural Ambassador leads hands-on classes in Tahitian arts, including ukulele, pareo tying, flower crown and lei-making, along with language lessons and storytelling. Culinary demonstrations showcase local flavours such as poisson cru made with coconut milk, while guest lecturers share insights into traditions like the sacred art of Polynesian tattooing.
Shore excursions are led by local guides and include activities such as snorkelling through coral gardens, visiting Tahitian vanilla plantations, learning about black pearl cultivation, and kayaking or paddleboarding in iconic locations like Bora Bora and Moorea. The yachts’ marina platforms provide direct access to these idyllic lagoons, enhancing the sense of freedom and connection to the islands.
Booking incentives and early offers
Windstar is offering an early booking promotion valid until 31 October 2025, which includes up to USD 200 in onboard credit and access to the All-In package covering Wi-Fi, gratuities and select beverages. Travellers can also benefit from a five per cent discount by paying in full at the time of booking, with this saving combinable with the early booking offer.
