Windstar Announces $250 Million in Fleet Improvements

Have you ever wanted to be a little longer? If you’re a Windstar Cruise ship, you’re in luck! The luxury cruise giant announced a new $250 million initiative this week to increase the length of three of their vessels by more than 25 meters. The initiative will expand guest accommodations on the cruise line’s three all-suite vessels increasing capacity from 212 passengers to 312 guests per ship, following the lengthening.

For Ships, Size Matters

According to John Delaney, President of Windstar Cruises, increasing space and capacity will lead to a better guest experience. 

“We are thrilled to announce the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative, a significant investment in the future of Windstar Cruises. This exciting initiative is our 180 degree from ordinary solution to add new capacity and major enhancements to the guest experience in a very time efficient manner,” he said. “The initiative not only creates beautiful new suites and public spaces, but we will also take the opportunity to re-engine the ships with a more fuel efficient and environmentally responsible propulsion system. This will be a true game changer for Windstar and our small ship cruise experience.”

Windstar’s $250 Million Star Plus Initiative

The lengthening project is slated for Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride in succession between October 2019 and November 2020, and take place at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Sicily, Italy.

RELATED: Windstar Flagship Gets New Set of Sails

Each Star Class ship will be cut to allow the installation of a new section of ship that will lengthen each vessel approximately 25.6 meters bringing the total length to just over 138 meters, still the right size to access the smaller ports and harbors that Windstar favors on the line’s immersive itineraries. The project adds 50 new suites, bringing the total number of suites per ship to 156, and represents an investment of more than $267,000 per passenger berth.

Improved Amenities and Performance

Also involved in the upgrade plans are state-of-the-art public spaces including two new dining locations; new shop and retail space; a much enlarged fitness center; and a new world-class spa.

The renovations also include a comprehensive engine improvement for each ship. Not usually found in the cruise industry, the upgrades involve the removal of seven current engines and installation of four new, more environmentally friendly engines that will run on cleaner fuel and reduce emissions impact to sailing regions.