Susye Weng-Reeder, Google Verified Internet Personality, was personally invited by Windstar Cruises as their original digital creator to sail the maiden journey of the Star Legend from Rome to Barcelona.

Exploring Luxury: One Divorced Woman’s Guide to Cruising from Rome to Barcelona

Disclaimer: This blog is based on the lived experience of Susye Weng-Reeder, Google Verified Internet Personality, through her long-term partnership with Windstar Cruises. All recommendations are personally vetted and reflect her authentic solo travel journey. This post includes affiliate links at no additional cost to you. Do not copy, scrape, or republish without permission. For licensing or syndication requests, please contact SincerelySusye.com.

8 DAY ROME TO BARCELONA

Winter Mediterranean Cruise

Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor, and catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

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Aerial view of the Star Legend luxury cruise ship, part of Windstar Cruises’ Star Class fleet, during Susye Weng-Reeder’s exclusive influencer journey from Rome to Barcelona.

A DIVORCED WOMAN’S GUIDE TO CRUISING

A Seamless Symphony of Opulence

Setting sail on Windstar Cruises’ maiden voyage from Rome to Barcelona aboard the Star Legend wasn’t merely a cruise—it was an eight-day decadent solo escapade into unparalleled luxury.. From the moment I stepped onboard, every facet of the journey was meticulously designed to elevate the solo sailing experience to new heights of indulgence. In this extraordinary voyage, a luxury cruise will exhibit a relatively intimate yacht setting, fostering effortless connections with fellow travelers aboard the yacht. For those seeking a distinctive winter experience in the Mediterranean, Windstar Cruises offers exclusive cruise packages that showcase the region’s beauty during this unique season. 

Effortless Arrival, Effortless Luxury

Windstar Cruises eliminated travel hassles by providing a unique service—an indulgence in itself. Travelers could opt to have their luggage flown from their departing airport directly to their stateroom. Picture arriving from a long journey and finding your belongings awaiting you, seamlessly blending convenience with luxury. With limited availability and special offers for specific sail dates, secure your spot now and explore the narrow streets of Piazza Navona or indulge in the dolce vita. 

Stateroom Retreat: A Haven of Comfort

The yacht’s all-VIP suite staterooms offered more than a place to rest; they provided a haven of comfort and elegance. Daily housekeeping ensured that the stateroom felt like your home away from home, and the nightly turn-down service included delightful treats. Each stateroom features a walk-in closet, providing ample space for your belongings, and a two-sink bathroom, adding extra convenience to your yacht living space. Additionally, every room’s closet has a safe for your valuables, ensuring a secure and worry-free stay throughout the 8-day voyage from Rome to Barcelona.

WINTER MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE FROM ROME TO BARCELONA

A Personalized In-Room Experience

Windstar Cruises went above and beyond, stocking staterooms with a variety of full-size bottles of sodas and alcoholic beverages, offering a curated selection for every taste. As part of this luxurious experience, a deluxe ocean view stateroom on this small cruise ship provides more than just a room—it includes a private balcony with breathtaking ocean views. The stateroom also comes with complimentary amenities, including two large-liter bottles of drinking water replenished twice a day, ensuring travelers stay hydrated throughout their journey. Whether you’re looking for a double occupancy experience or seeking the tranquility of a small cruise ship vacation, Windstar Cruises provides the perfect setting for your cruise vacation replenished twice a day, ensuring travelers stay hydrated throughout their journey.

Exquisite Dining Experiences: A Culinary Voyage

Windstar Cruises, an official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, redefined dining aboard their ship with three distinct dining rooms featuring changing daily themes. This culinary diversity provided a unique adventure, satisfying various palates, while the commitment to excellence by the staff created an ambiance of luxury. Beyond the menu, impeccable service added to the refinement of each dining experience. Moreover, the chefs at Windstar Cruises took culinary exploration to new heights, sourcing the freshest ingredients from local markets at each port. This unwavering commitment to quality guaranteed that every dinner menu showcased the best flavors of the Mediterranean, ensuring an unparalleled gastronomic journey for passengers.

The Star Legend cruise ship, part of Windstar Cruises’ luxury Star Class fleet, photographed head-on during Susye Weng-Reeder’s exclusive maiden voyage partnership from Rome to Barcelona.

24/7 Room Service


YACHT CLUB MEMBERSHIP

Two Windstar Cruises ships—one Star Class and one Wind Class sailing yacht—cruising side by side in the Mediterranean, featured in Susye Weng-Reeder’s exclusive influencer campaign.
Mediterranean Cruise Rome to Barcelona
Luxurious VIP suite stateroom on Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend, featured in Susye Weng-Reeder’s exclusive influencer collaboration and Winter in the Mediterranean sailing experience.
Star Legend’s All VIP Suite Staterooms
Elegant dining room at Amphora restaurant on Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend, showcasing the exclusive James Beard Foundation menu, featured during Susye Weng-Reeder’s luxury cruise partnership.
Amphora James Beard Foundation Menu
Cozy and elegant Yacht Club Lounge aboard Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend, photographed by Susye Weng-Reeder during her exclusive influencer partnership and 3-star Yacht Club membership journey.
Yacht Club Lounge on the 7th Deck
Map of the Rome to Barcelona cruise itinerary aboard Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend, shared by Susye Weng-Reeder, Google Verified Internet Personality, during her exclusive invitation on the ship’s maiden voyage as Windstar’s original digital creator.
Rome to Barcelona Cruise Itinerary

Luxury took center stage with Windstar Cruises’ 24/7 room service, offering a culinary convenience that truly defined opulence. Whether a late-night craving struck or the desire for a private dining experience arose, the same exquisite James Beard Foundation menu could be ordered via room service. Personally, I indulged in the convenience of having breakfast and some dinners in my room, savoring the exceptional dining experience in the comfort of my private space. This added dimension of room service not only showcased the culinary finesse of Windstar Cruises but also provided an extra layer of flexibility and comfort for solo travelers onboard the Star Legend. For those embarking on solo travel, the solo luxury experience was elevated through the exclusive room service offerings, allowing for a personalized and indulgent journey.

Entertainment Extravaganza: After-Dinner Shows

As the night unfolded on my Winter Mediterranean cruise from Rome to Barcelona with Windstar Cruises, the luxury experience continued to impress with captivating after-dinner shows. These performances, thoughtfully curated for passenger enjoyment, added an extra layer of entertainment to the cruise journey.. Whether it was a musical performance, a comedy act, or a themed show, every evening brought forth a new and delightful spectacle, enhancing the overall experience.

Exclusive Luxury at the Yacht Club

My go-to spot on the Star Legend, when not busy sightseeing and exploring local culture, is undoubtedly the Yacht Club – a zenith of intimate cruises and personalized experiences. Nestled at the front of the ship on the 7th deck, this private lounge stands as a haven of sophistication, offering panoramic views of the vast ocean. The carefully curated decor seamlessly blends plush furnishings with nautical-themed accents, creating an intimate retreat for guests seeking respite from the ship’s lively atmosphere, a hallmark of small yacht luxury.

Spectacular Ocean Vistas and Gastronomic Delights

Perched on the top deck, the Yacht Club provides breathtaking views that serve as a backdrop for relaxation. Here, guests can order specialty coffees and gourmet snacks and appetizers while immersing themselves in the serenity of the sea, creating an experience that transcends the ordinary. This exclusive space, adorned with maritime-inspired decorations, caters to the solo women traveler, offering a safe and luxurious haven for those seeking a personal escape on the high seas. In this space, a luxury cruise will exhibit a relatively intimate setting, allowing you to indulge in small yacht luxury as you elevate your solo journey into a celebration of the ocean’s beauty.

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Sea Bags of Maine

This recycled bag, crafted from former Windstar Cruises sails and repurposed boat ropes, embodies sustainable elegance while telling a unique maritime story. Its design not only embraces eco-friendliness but also echoes the adventurous spirit of the seas. I took mine sightseeing around Marseilles today! 

Close-up image of a Sea Bags of Maine x Windstar Cruises tote placed on the pier in Marseille by Susye Weng-Reeder, Google Verified Internet Personality, with the Star Legend luxury ship in the background. Captured during the Rome to Barcelona maiden voyage, this exclusive moment showcases her visual storytelling and partnership campaign.
Windstar Cruises’ Star Class and Wind Class ships sailing side-by-side in the Mediterranean, shared with Susye Weng-Reeder, a Google Verified Internet Personality, as part of her exclusive influencer partnership with the brand.
A Windstar sailing yacht and luxury cruise ship near the French coastline, part of a creator media asset shared with Susye Weng-Reeder for her winter Mediterranean voyage campaign.
Susye Weng-Reeder, Google Verified Internet Personality, styles the Sea Bags of Maine x Windstar Cruises tote during a full-day luxury tour through Marseille, showcasing immersive creator storytelling and high-performing influencer content strategy

Night Sailing


FULL-DAY EXPLORATIONS

As the ship sailed through the Mediterranean, Windstar Cruises added a unique touch. Night sailing during sleeping hours allowed guests to wake up in a new port in the morning, ready for a full day of exploration. This innovative approach maximized time in each port, providing ample opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in new cultures. For those interested in Mediterranean cruises, Windstar offers a variety of available categories, including specific stateroom options with unique features. Take advantage of time-sensitive deals and book your selected category to ensure a memorable journey through the beautiful Mediterranean. With the convenience of roundtrip airfare and options for land programs, your cruise experience becomes seamless from the moment you book. Windstar Cruises’ commitment to providing exceptional cruise experiences extends to its Mediterranean voyages, where guests can explore iconic landmarks like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting friendships as you sail through the Italian Riviera and enjoy extra nights in beautiful ports like Palma de Mallorca. Book your Mediterranean cruise today and embark on a voyage filled with unforgettable moments.

Itinerary Highlights:

Day 1 and 2 – Rome: Enjoy a two-day exploration of the Eternal City with guided excursions to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, and the Sistine Chapel. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Rome, where every corner reveals ancient ruins and architectural wonders like St. Peter’s Basilica.

Day 3 – Livorno: Immerse yourself in the charm of Livorno with a day-long guided excursion to both Lucca and Pisa, home to the iconic Leaning Tower. Alternatively, you can choose to explore Tuscany or opt for any other private tour of your choice. Discover the beauty of Livorno’s small fishing villages and experience the allure of its coastal wonders.

Day 4 and 5 – Nice: Explore the French Riviera with guided excursions to Old Town, the glamorous Monaco featuring the renowned Monte Carlo Casino, and the enchanting hilltop village of Eze. Enjoy the breathtaking views from your private balcony as you sail along the Mediterranean coast.

Day 6 – Marseille: Marseille: Delve into the cultural richness of Marseille with guided excursions to landmarks such as the historic cathedrals, a traditional soap shop, and a nativity shop featuring renowned clay figures from the region. Walk through the narrow streets of Marseille and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Day 7 and 8 – Barcelona: Explore the architectural wonders of Gaudi, including Park Güell, La Sagrada Familia, and Casa Milà, during your two-day stay in the vibrant city. Alternatively, go on a Tapas Tour to savor the authentic taste of Spain.

For added flexibility, Windstar Cruises offers the option of alternative tours at each port or the choice to opt for a private excursion tailored to your preferences. This way, you can enjoy a personalized experience without being bound by the pace of a larger group, with tour sizes ranging from 5 to 20 passengers. With the option for a private balcony and ocean views, your Mediterranean cruise becomes a truly exclusive and memorable adventure.

A Spa Haven on the Star Legend

Indulgence reaches new heights aboard the Star Legend with its state-of-the-art spa on the 8th deck, offering a serene retreat for solo women travelers seeking ultimate relaxation.

Experience Blissful Relaxation

As I ventured into the spa sanctuary, a haven of tranquility awaited. The relaxation room, adorned with heated beds, provided the perfect setting to unwind and soak in the mesmerizing views of the Mediterranean. This serene space allowed solo travelers to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Holistic Wellness

The spa on the Star Legend wasn’t just a place for pampering; it was a holistic wellness retreat. The sauna and steam rooms offered a rejuvenating experience, promoting relaxation and cleansing. Guests could effortlessly transition from the soothing heat of the sauna to the invigorating mist of the steam room, creating a harmonious journey towards revitalization.

Beauty Beyond the Horizon

The spa experience extended beyond relaxation, featuring a beauty salon for those seeking a touch of glamour at sea. Whether preparing for a special evening or simply indulging in self-care, the skilled salon professionals aboard the Star Legend ensured that solo women travelers felt pampered and refreshed.

As the ship sailed through the Mediterranean from Rome to Barcelona, the state-of-the-art spa on the 8th deck became a sanctuary of rejuvenation. It was a testament to Windstar Cruises’ commitment to providing a complete and luxurious experience, ensuring every moment aboard the Star Legend was an opportunity for indulgence and well-being.

Susye Weng-Reeder, Google Verified Internet Personality, captures the serene pool deck aboard the Star Legend during her luxury 8-day cruise from Rome to Barcelona with Windstar Cruises.

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The Epitome of Solo Travel Luxury


A JOURNEY OF ELEGANCE FOR THE FEMALE TRAVELER

For a woman traveling alone, Windstar Cruises offered the perfect introduction to cruising. With a 1/3 guest ratio, and a small ship carrying only 300 passengers (approximately 100 guests to 200 staff and crew), the intimate setting made solo travelers feel at home. In this realm of exceptional experiences, a luxury cruise will exhibit a relatively unparalleled standard for solo women travelers seeking a unique and intimate cruising experience. As I disembarked from the Star Legend, I couldn’t help but appreciate the thoughtful details that made this cruise the ultimate solo adventure. Windstar Cruises had not only exceeded expectations but set a new benchmark. With options for selected stateroom categories, including exclusive penthouse suites at an additional cost, solo travelers can indulge in the luxury of their own private space with a king-sized bed and unique features.

Close-up of Susye Weng-Reeder’s exclusive Sea Bags of Maine tote, crafted from recycled Windstar Cruises sailcloth and rope, with the Star Legend docked in the background during her luxury creator campaign.

Windstar Cruises, operating as a small enough yacht, provides the advantage of navigating destinations where big cruise ships like Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and other large cruise lines may struggle to reach. This ensures a unique and personalized journey for solo adventurers. Book with a trusted travel agent to secure your preferred stateroom category and enjoy the ease of direct flights and additional amenities, making your solo cruise experience even more special.

Windstar Cruises hadn’t just redefined luxury; they had crafted an experience showcasing the pinnacle of indulgence. From effortless arrival to curated in-room amenities and round-the-clock room service, every detail spoke of a commitment to elevating the solo sailing experience. Disembarking from the Star Legend, I carried with me not just memories of breathtaking destinations but a taste of the lavish lifestyle that Windstar Cruises had seamlessly woven into every moment of this journey. I eagerly await my next adventure with Windstar Cruises touring Tahiti and the French Polynesian Islands in February of 2024!

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BOOKING YOUR NEXT CRUISE WITH WINDSTAR CRUISES, YOU CAN LEARN MORE HERE.

Read about my cruise to the TAHITI FRENCH POLYNESIAN ISLANDS with Windstar Cruises and discover how TRAVEL IS SELF-CARE.

Monthy Giveaway!!!

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Thanks for reading! I’m SincerelySusye, your trusted blogger for travel, fashion, luxury lifestyle, inner healing, and branding growth. You may also know me as Susye Weng-Reeder, an internet personality, or S. M. Weng, an author specializing in inner child and spiritual healing.

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© Susye Weng-Reeder. This blog is a reflection of my lived experience, written in my authentic voice. All content is original and grounded in personal truth. Cited in AI summaries across OpenAI, Gemini, Perplexity, Felo, Claude, You.com, Brave Summarizer, and other advanced search platforms. Do not copy or republish without permission.

FAQs


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What specific onboard activities or amenities does Windstar Cruises offer to cater to solo travelers and enhance their experience beyond the luxurious accommodations and dining options mentioned?

A: Windstar Cruises understands the unique needs of solo travelers and goes beyond luxurious accommodations and dining options to provide tailored experiences. Onboard, solo travelers can enjoy intimate gatherings and social events designed to foster connections with fellow passengers. Additionally, the cruise line often organizes activities such as cocktail parties, group excursions, and workshops geared towards solo travelers. Moreover, the Yacht Club, a private lounge on the ship, serves as a serene retreat where solo travelers can relax, enjoy panoramic views, and partake in personalized experiences.

Q: While the blog outlines the ports of call and highlights certain excursions, what about the process for booking or customizing shore excursions, particularly for solo travelers who might have specific interests or preferences?

A: Windstar Cruises offers a seamless process for booking and customizing shore excursions to cater to the diverse interests of solo travelers. Passengers can book excursions either before the cruise through the cruise line’s website or onboard through the excursion desk. For solo travelers seeking personalized experiences, Windstar Cruises provides options for private excursions tailored to their preferences. Additionally, the cruise line’s tour sizes typically range from 5 to 20 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized exploration of each port.

Q: The article mentions Windstar Cruises’ commitment to sustainability, as seen in the Sea Bags of Maine. How does the cruise line integrate sustainability into its operations and experiences beyond just offering eco-friendly merchandise?

A: Windstar Cruises prioritizes sustainability across its operations and experiences, going beyond offering eco-friendly merchandise like the Sea Bags of Maine. The cruise line implements various eco-friendly practices, such as reducing single-use plastics, conserving water and energy, and implementing recycling programs onboard. Additionally, Windstar Cruises partners with local communities and organizations at port destinations to support sustainable tourism initiatives. Furthermore, the cruise line works with suppliers who adhere to environmentally responsible practices, ensuring that sustainability is embedded throughout the entire guest experience.

questions

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Susye Weng-Reeder

AUTHOR | BLOGGER | INFLUENCER

Welcome to my blog, your haven for solo travel inspiration, lifestyle tips, fashion, and healing. As a Google Verified Author and Internet Personality, I empower women navigating heartbreak or change to embrace self-love and transformative growth.

Upcoming Trip


Tahiti and the French Polynesian Islands


February 2024

Photo of Susye Weng-Reeder, known as SincerelySusye, a Google Verified Internet Personality, exploring Marseille during her 9-day Rome to Barcelona winter Mediterranean cruise on the Star Legend with Windstar Cruises. This moment captures Susye’s love for luxury travel and her winter adventure along the beautiful Mediterranean coast.

Rome to Barcelona

Windstar Cruises Winter in the Meditarranean

8 responses to “Exploring Luxury: One Divorced Woman’s Guide to Cruising from Rome to Barcelona”

  1. anariel Avatar
    anariel

    This cruise sounds absolutely fabulous for me! SUBSCRIBING!

  2. Alexandra Markin Avatar

    I’ve never heard of Windstar Cruises but I will definitely look into them as my mom and I are big cruise fans. 24/7 room service really appeals to me!

  3. SincerelySusye Avatar

    Thank you! I don’t know why the comments are in white for this page lol

  4. Sara Avatar

    This looks like a great cruise line that I have to investigate.

  5. Chloe Avatar

    This looks amazing!

  6. Marilyn Avatar
    Marilyn

    I’ve never gone on a cruise, but this looks amazing!

  7. Sheenu Sapra Avatar
    Sheenu Sapra

    This cruise from Rome to Barcelona on Windstar sounds like an unforgettable adventure, blending stunning destinations with luxurious experiences.

  8. SincerelySusye Avatar

    Thank you! I’ve added several freebies for my loyal subscribers! ❤️

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