The intimate luxury cruise line Windstar have announced a massive US$250M refurbishment program. Called the Star Plus Initiative, the Windstar lengthening program takes a leaf out of the Silversea playbook, cutting in half and extending each of the line’s three iconic 212-guest Star-class vessels.
In fact, the work will be carried out in the same Fincantieri shipyard that earlier this year cut and extended the Silver Spirit.
Running in succession between October 2019 and November 2020 Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride will all be lengthen by approximately 26m / 85ft to a new length of 156 m / 520 ft. The Windstar lengthening program will see an additional 50 suites added to each vessel, increasing the capacity to 312 guests.
Existing Owner’s Suites will be replaced with new ones during the lengthening.
These 50 additional suites will feature new categories as well as open floor plans. Two brand-new owners suites will also be created. The existing ocean view and balcony suites will also be entirely made over including the addition of brand new bathrooms.
The pool and whirlpool will be enlarged, a welcome improvement.
The extra space will also allow for a range of other guest enhancements as well. The pool and whirlpools will be enlarged and elevated. A much needed improvement.
There will also be two new onboard restaurants including and intimate indoor venue as well as a more casual outdoor restaurant on the top deck. The existing Veranda restaurant will be expanded.
There will be big changes to the popular Veranda Restaurant.
The Windstar lengthening will also make room for a new shop and retail space, as well as a much enlarged fitness centre and a brand new world-class spa.
To ensure there is no slip in Windstar’s impressive service level, new crew will be hired to maintain a ratio of 2 hotel-staff members for every 3 guests.
The company is also using the opportunity to replace the old engines on the Star-class vessels. The original seven engines on each vessel will be swapped over for four new fuel efficient and environmentally friendly power plants.
For more information visit the Windstar website.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
