Windstar Cruises is a boutique, active and off-the-beaten path cruise line that gives guests the unique chance to set sail right into remote ports of call and untouched tropical harbors full of natural beauty. For a taste of added adventure to your cruise vacation, some of these ports require what’s called a “wet landing.” A wet landing in the cruise world means an active and mobile adventure that makes you feel like a local as you literally get your feet wet in these remarkable ports of call.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Windstar utilizes zodiacs, rugged inflatable boats designed to take guests safely to remote ports with no docks. A wet landing consists of boarding a zodiac from a floating dock on the yacht and riding it from the ship to the shore. Once you reach the beach, you will disembark directly in the water.
“A Windstar Cruises wet landing means two things: You’re going to be exploring an exotic place where few other cruise ships have ever roamed. And you need to pack a pair of waterproof shoes. Preferably several.” – Carolyn Spencer Brown, Cruise Critic Editor in Chief.
HOW TO PREPARE
To prepare for a wet landing, make sure to bring water shoes, water socks, water-proof sandals, flip-flops or the like to help you walk in the water and sand. If you are on an excursion or want to snorkel, don’t forget your complimentary ship-provided snorkel bag with fins and mask. Some landing sites may have rocky bottoms or shells. You will most likely get wet, so be conscientious of your attire remembering hats, sunscreen and water for protection from the heat and sun. Ship staff will be there every step of the way to assist guests onto and in and out of the zodiac. Just sit on the edge, swing your legs over, and hop into paradise.
Most zodiac rides from ship to shore are under 10 minutes. The ship staff will advise you in advance. Additionally, it is highly recommended to attend the Voyage Leader presentations held in the evenings in the ship’s Lounge, as they will cover many of the details of the wet landings that are specific to your cruise region.
Travel Tip: Bring a ziplock or watertight bag for valuables including I.D., phone, camera, money to make sure they stay dry.
After disembarking, adventures await on shore! Be sure to review all of the exciting Shore Excursion options in the tropical ports of call. Wet landings also mean especially adventurous and active adventures ashore including snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, visiting a waterfall, beach combing or finding some secluded sand to enjoy your book or a relaxing afternoon with a cruise mate.
Where Windstar Cruises has Wet Landings?
Windstar Cruises uses zodiacs to bring guests ashore in the Costa Rican ports of Isla Parida, Puerto Jimenez, and Bahia Herradura (if dock is not available). In French Polynesia, only Motu Mahaea (Tahaa) is a wet landing.
Please call our Vacation Planners at 1-800-258-7245 or your Travel Agent if you have more questions.
Note: For guests who choose to forego a wet landing, you will always also have the option to stay aboard the ship and enjoy the luxurious amenities such as the WindSpa. The ship will be quiet, the perfect time to enjoy the idea of having a private yacht!
