In an evolution that refreshes Windstar’s trio of sailing ships – Wind Star, Wind Spirit and Wind Surf – the company has begun a multi-million-dollar, multi-year refurbishment initiative. The remodeling effort, which has already begun on the 148-guest Wind Star, spans the vessels, from staterooms and suites to restaurants and pool decks.
The inspiration for the major remodel, says Stijn Creupelandt, Windstar’s vice president of hotel operations and product development, is to make sure that the ships’ spaces feel up to date while retaining the charm that has made each so special. “The initiative is all about providing guests with updated spaces that inspire relaxation, foster connection, and offer multifunctional needs of an intimate sized sailing yacht,” he says.
As you can see from our renderings, the new ambience is earthy, clubby and quietly elegant. “It’s about feeling a sense of stepping onto your own private yacht but experiencing the service of a luxury boutique hotel,” says Jessica Payne, Windstar’s manager of interior design.
Here’s how the upgrades are rolling out.
Wind Star
The Project: The 148-guest Wind Star underwent the first stage of upgrades while in Lisbon in November 2023. In this phase one (of two), the ship’s reception area received expanded seating and retail space, the Lounge that’s adjacent to the Yacht Club Cafe was spruced up with new furniture and lighting, and the World Spa by Windstar and gym were revitalized, and new equipment was installed. The pool deck, one of Wind Star’s most social places, has a new pool and Jacuzzi, an extended pool bar, and fresh pops of color via new outdoor seating and lounging. The Owner’s Suite was completely redesigned.
Wind Star’s technology has also gotten a major upgrade, with new, larger flatscreen televisions in all staterooms and suites and Starlink Wi-Fi.
What’s next? The second phase of Wind Star’s “Setting Sails” project takes place in December 2025. On tap: Guest staterooms will be remodeled. Amphora, its primary restaurant, and Veranda, it’s ship-top café for lunch and breakfast, will also be completely redecorated.
Wind Spirit
The Project: In April 2025, the 148-guest Wind Spirit, will undergo its transformation in just one phase. From bow to stern, the yacht will have refreshed public spaces, such as pool deck, spa and gym, lobby, Amphora and Veranda, and all staterooms and suites.
What’s Next: Wind Spirit is the only one of the three sailing vessels to receive all upgrades at the same drydock.
Wind Surf
The Project: The 310-guest Wind Surf will undergo its refurbishment in two phases, starting in December 2024 and finishing up in December 2026. The project encompasses a full redesign of all public spaces with new layouts, furniture, wall and floor coverings, lighting and custom art. Suites and staterooms will be fully remodeled with new furniture, bedding, carpets, interactive televisions and art and décor.
What’s Next? The schedule for each of the two phases of refurbishment is not yet official; we’ll provide an update when info is available.
I think that the windspirit refresh in happening in March of 2025, not December.
Hi, Gary, so sorry for delay in replying. I double-checked and am told the ship will undergo its refurbishment in December 2025….
Thanks for the great question! –Carolyn
Thank you for looking into that, though, I am still confused as there is nothing on the Windspirit schedule between Lisbon on March 9, 2025 and Rome on April 23rd. I was under the impression that this will be the dry dock period. If not, why the 6 week period with no sailings?
Hi, Gary, I checked on your question and this is what was told: The ship does get chartered frequently and many times back to back. Other than that, I don’t have additional information, but the drydock is definitely in December. Thanks — Carolyn
Thank you very much for looking into that for me Carolyn. Appreciate your help.
One more point Carolyn. The ship will be in the Caribbean in December. The dry docs I believe are done in Lisbon. Is this correct?
Interesting point, Gary! This is what I got this time: “Wind Surf dry docks in Nov/Dec in Navantia shipyard in Cádiz. Wind spirit will dry dock in the same yard April 2025.” You are absolutely right, and thanks for persevering. I’ve updated the blog…. –Carolyn
Looking forward to seeing some of the upgrades when we travel on the Star in Sept this year.
Have been reading some negative comments lately but for me it is always awesome.
We are contemplating traveling on the Windsurf next July 2025. Am Interested to hear what has already been done and what will be done before we board next July 25? From reviews it looks like the rooms need a major refurbishment.