Windstar Cruises is continuing its focus on European waters, announcing Monday that its upcoming Star Explorer (debuting in December 2026) will sail year-round Europe. The second of two new all-suite yachts joining the fleet, the 224-guest vessel is now open for booking, with its first full season of Europe cruises running through March 2028.

With itineraries like “Circumnavigating Ireland” and “Seven Gems of the Baltic,” Star Explorer, Windstar said, “is all about immersive, port-intensive experiences with longer stays and overnight visits in the heart of Europe’s most captivating cities.”

Speaking to LATTE U.S. earlier this month about the potential for year-round sailing in Europe and the Mediterranean, the line’s CCO, Janet Bava, said, “We unlocked, I think, something unique and special.”

After its debut in December 2026, Star Explorer will enjoy a welcoming ceremony and christening on May 31, 2027, on London’s River Thames. The next morning, it will pass under Tower Bridge and set sail on a circumnavigation of Ireland. 

2027 European Itineraries

In addition to longtime favorites like Norway’s fjords the Baltics, and the British Isles, Star Explorer’s 2027 season features the return of fan-favorites in Northern Europe.

• Seven Gems of the Baltic – An eight-night itinerary visiting seven countries in one swoop: Denmark, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Sweden, Finland and Estonia. Guests will spend two nights in the trend-setting city of Stockholm and a night in medieval Tallinn where bustling nightlife meets perfectly preserved history. They will visit UNESCO-designated Riga’s famous Central Market, stop by the island of Bornholm—dubbed “Denmark in miniature”—complete with forests, craggy cliffs, and bleach-blond beaches, before ending in Copenhagen.
• Circumnavigating Ireland – This 10-night journey is packed with pub sessions, dramatic cliffs and warm welcomes. It explores the Isles of Scilly, a pristine archipelago off the coast of Cornwall accessible only by helicopter or ferry; moors in Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city from the Viking Triangle; stops in Killybegs, known for its rich tapestries and carpets; and gives a striking view of the Cliffs of Mohr from a lesser-seen vantage point. It also stops in Cork, Dingle, Galway, Londonderry and Belfast.

A collection of France and Northern Spain voyages take full advantage of Star Explorer’s small size and maneuverability. Cruises start or end in Bordeaux, Rouen and London—all river ports with central docking locations. It will also make Windstar’s first call to Puerto Banús in Spain, the stylish marina gateway to Marbella, and return to San Sebastián and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, bringing guests closer to the Basque coast’s culinary soul.

• Connoisseur’s Delight: Northern Spain & Portugal – The eight-night voyage from Lisbon to Bordeaux visits Vigo, Gijon, Bilbao and San Sebastian, Spain; spends an overnight in Biarritz, a historic French seaside resort; and ends with another overnight in Bordeaux’s city center. The distinct food cultures of Northern Spain are a highlight, including cider in Gijon and Michelin-starred restaurants in San Sebastian.
• Impressionist France – This 10-night journey from Bordeaux to London offers extended time to explore with overnight stays in three places—Bordeaux, St. Malo and Paris/Rouen. The cruise also visits La Rochelle, Belle-Ile and Caen, France, with a cruise on the iconic Seine River. Normandy D-day beaches and the Bayeux Tapestry are accessible from Caen.

Onboard, Star Explorer offers 112 suites, including two Horizon Owner’s Suites with wraparound balconies. Many other suites will offer full verandas or infinity windows. Guests will enjoy Windstar favorites like the Yacht Club Café, the signature Marina with watersports activities, the line’s friendly crew, and a relaxed, upscale ambiance.  

Early Booking Offer: Save with early booking rates through November 15, 2025, and get an additional 5% off with Pay Now, Save More when paying in full at time of booking. Offers are combinable and subject to availability.