Windstar Cruises has taken ownership of its newest all-suite yacht, Star Seeker, following a handover ceremony on December 15 at the WestSEA Shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
The 224-guest yacht is the first new build in Windstar’s Star Class and marks a major milestone in the cruise line’s ongoing fleet expansion.
The ceremony formalized the transfer of ownership.
Representing Windstar were President Chris Prelog, Chief Operating Officer Stijn Creupelandt, Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava and Vice President of Expansion Projects John Gunner, who oversaw the shipbuilding program.
“Taking delivery of a new ship is one of the most meaningful moments in a shipbuilding journey,” said Prelog in a press release. “From the float out to the handover, we’ve seen Star Seeker take shape with extraordinary craftsmanship. The WestSEA team and Mario Ferreira with Mystic Cruises team have been incredible partners throughout this process, and our crew, led by Captain Schofield, has worked tirelessly to ensure the yacht is delivered in exceptional condition. We cannot wait to welcome guests aboard in just a few short weeks.”
Where she'll sail
Star Seeker now enters its final preparations ahead of its December 2025 debut, beginning with a Maiden Voyage from Málaga, Spain, across the Atlantic to Miami, now home to Windstar Cruises’ corporate headquarters, where a christening ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 15th.
After her January 15, 2026 christening in Miami, Star Seeker will begin an inaugural season in the Caribbean, calling on both marquee ports and small islands that larger ships can’t reach. Early itineraries include the Dominican Republic, the British Virgin Islands, San Juan and calls to Iles des Saintes, Bequia, Mayreau, Pigeon Island and immersive experiences in colonial cities like Santo Domingo and Cartagena.
Star Seeker then sails north for a full Alaska season, where the yacht’s compact size and expansive open decks are perfect for glacier viewing and wildlife encounters.
Guests can kayak beside icebergs or explore by Zodiac directly from the innovative Marina supported by Windstar’s knowledgeable Expedition Guides.
In late 2026 and 2027, Star Seeker will make its way to Japan, offering itineraries that pair marquee cities with lesser-visited destinations known for traditional arts, cuisine and local experiences.
There are also exciting new destination enhancements like a brand-new Mystery Cruise, where guests embark in Hokkaido and disembark in Osaka, with each port revealed only days in advance.
Japan will also feature a Destination Discovery Event in Tomonoura, where Windstar guests will explore Edo-period streets with exclusive access to samurai sword performances, tea ceremonies, calligraphy workshops, and private entry into historic residences.
Star Seeker will be followed by sister yacht Star Explorer, debuting in December 2026.
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