I started my adventure in Athens, Greece, the birthplace of Greek civilization. Walking through the revered ground of the Acropolis, I could feel the history all around me. After a day of exploring ancient temples, checking into my stateroom aboard Wind Surf was hassle-free. My queen-size bed with luxurious Egyptian cotton linens, the flat-screen television, and a beautiful sitting area with ocean views made every evening feel like a private retreat. While the Wind Surf has not yet been remodeled like Windstar Cruises’ Star Class ships, the stateroom still offered a sense of indulgence, with plenty of space to relax and unwind.

The bath, with its massage shower head and granite countertops, added to the luxurious experience. Every inch of the stateroom was designed for comfort, and the ample storage made unpacking easy. With 24/7 room service and a fresh fruit bowl delivered daily, I could enjoy delicious meals in the privacy of my room. As a James Beard Foundation cruise line, every meal was of Michelin-star quality, ensuring that even dining in my stateroom was a gourmet experience. This was truly an exceptional 9-day cruise, where even the smallest details were thoughtfully curated.

indulgence

After Greece, we sailed to Croatia, where each destination offered something unique. In Dubrovnik, famously known as King’s Landing from Game of Thrones, I explored the historic city walls that overlook the rugged coastal mountain ranges and the sparkling sea. Walking through the streets where iconic scenes were filmed made the experience even more surreal. Although we missed Kotor and Zadar due to weather, Windstar Cruises extended our time in Dubrovnik, giving me the opportunity to dive deeper into its rich history. Back aboard the ship, there is the option to unwind in the owner’s suite, complete with granite countertops and a comfy waffle-weave robe, or enjoy an invigorating massage shower after a day of exploration.

The next stop was Hvar, Croatia, which was an absolute highlight. The island’s rocky vineyards and charming streets made it one of the most picturesque stops on the cruise. Thanks to Windstar’s expertly guided excursions, I even had the chance to experience a local wine tasting, enjoying the benefits of Croatian microclimates. We also toured UNESCO-protected vineyards where wine has been grown for over 2,400 years, an unforgettable experience that connected us to the island’s ancient winemaking traditions. The ship’s watersports platform was also the perfect way to spend a day of sun, exploring the pristine waters around the archipelago.

Although we didn’t make it to Zadar, the extra time in Dubrovnik allowed me to appreciate the pleasant sleepiness of the city. Every meal onboard was a culinary masterpiece, featuring local favorites like a Croatian breakfast and seafood dishes inspired by Montenegro cuisine, crafted by talented chefs to reflect the culture of each destination.

indulgence

One of the best aspects of sailing with Windstar Cruises is the flexibility to customize your itinerary. You can fully customize your cruise experience to suit your preferences. Whether you want to sail from Athens to Venice, Athens to Athens, Venice to Athens, or even Venice to Venice, Windstar Cruises offers flexibility in how you explore these stunning destinations. This means you can tailor your journey to fit your schedule and interests.

As a solo female traveler, I’ve also sailed on Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend from Rome to Barcelona and on the Star Breeze through the French Polynesian Islands, with each cruise offering its own unique charm and adventure. Beyond the Adriatic, Windstar Cruises has trips around the world, offering unique itineraries that allow you to experience incredible destinations in a way that’s personalized just for you. With their focus on nautical experiences, you can enjoy everything from Greek music performances to local wine tastings, immersing yourself in the culture of each port. Every day brings new opportunities to explore, relax, and discover the beauty of the Adriatic and beyond.

A Journey of a Lifetime

My journey through the Adriatic Archipelagos & Greek Goddesses on Wind Surf with Windstar Cruises was nothing short of incredible. The combination of luxury, personalized service, and stunning destinations made this cruise one of the most memorable experiences of my life. During one of our port visits, I had a special moment where I saw both the Wind Surf and Wind Star docked side by side. It was amazing to meet passengers coming from the opposite cruise direction, sharing stories about their experiences while we marveled at the beauty of both ships.

If you’re looking for an adventure that’s 180° from ordinary, I highly recommend sailing with Windstar Cruises. Their commitment to offering unique, intimate cruising experiences ensures that every trip is unforgettable.

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How customizable are the excursions on a Windstar Cruise?

Windstar Cruises offers a high level of customization when it comes to excursions. While they provide a curated selection of shore excursions at each port, passengers have the flexibility to choose activities that suit their interests. Typically, there are about five excursion options available each day, including private tours for those seeking a more personalized experience. For budget-conscious travelers, the cruise line hosts a daily 5 PM knowledge hour, where they provide information about the next day’s explorations, including tips on public transportation and free events you can explore independently. Whether you’re interested in historical tours, local cultural experiences, or adventurous outdoor activities, Windstar allows you to tailor your experience. You can also choose to explore the destinations on your own, making it easy to find the perfect balance between guided excursions and independent exploration.ation.

What is included in the cost of the Windstar Cruise?

Windstar Cruises offers different pricing options to suit your preferences. You can choose the basic cruise-only experience, or opt for the meals-included package for a more comprehensive option that covers gourmet dining curated by James Beard Foundation chefs. Additionally, for those who enjoy premium drinks, Windstar offers an alcohol package add-on that includes top-shelf quality beverages. Onboard activities and entertainment are included at no extra cost, ensuring you can enjoy various programs and events throughout your cruise. However, services like spa treatments, daily laundry, and excursions may incur additional fees if you choose to use them. It’s recommended to review your options when booking to select the package that best fits your needs.

What makes Windstar’s sustainability efforts different from other cruise lines?

Windstar Cruises is committed to sustainability, with a focus on minimizing their environmental impact, especially in fragile destinations like Venice. The smaller size of their ships allows them to dock directly in ports that larger vessels cannot access, reducing overcrowding and preserving the delicate infrastructure of these historic cities. Windstar also works to follow eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste and emissions, to ensure their voyages are as environmentally responsible as possible. These efforts help protect the destinations for future generations while still offering an intimate and immersive travel experience.

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