 04 Nov 2025
04 Nov 2025 GMT - ONLINE
GMT - ONLINEWindstar Cruises chief operating officer Stijn Creupelandt explains how the first ship of the Star class differs from the operator’s others vessel classes
Star Seeker is the first newly built yacht in Windstar’s all-suite Star class, which “represents the next evolution of the fleet’s signature small-ship experience”, says Windstar Cruises chief operating officer, Stijn Creupelandt.
With a guest capacity of 224 and 112 suites – most featuring either full private verandas or infinity windows – Star Seeker offers an elevated sense of space, privacy and comfort.
Mr Creupelandt adds, “Unlike Windstar’s Wind-class sailing yachts or the Star-class yachts, Star Seeker was designed from the ground up to align with Windstar’s unique ambiance of relaxed sophistication. The yacht features advanced energy-efficient propulsion, thoughtfully refined interiors and expanded dining and wellness options.”
Originally planned as an expedition vessel, Windstar Cruises’ Star Seeker has since been shaped to the boutique cruise line’s specification with an interior design aesthetic that will complement the rest of the small ship fleet, particularly its Star-class vessels.
224-passenger, 9,939-gt Star Seeker, under construction at Portugal’s West Sea shipyard, was ordered as the third ship for the luxury expedition line Atlas World Voyages, one of the cruise brands owned by Mystic Invest Holding. Initially called World Seeker, the contract was then acquired by Windstar.
Windstar’s team was involved in finalising the design to ensure it fit seamlessly into the Windstar fleet with signature spaces such as the Marina platform for water sports activities and the whirlpool on the bow. However, prior Star-class ships such as Star Breeze, Legend and Pride were stretched with a new section added plus retrofitted.
Star Seeker marks the start of a significant expansion for Windstar, which currently has six vessels carrying 148 to 342 guests. It will be joined by a second refurbished Mystic Invest vessel, World Explorer, which has been on seasonal charter to Quark Expeditions. As Star Explorer, it will begin sailing for Windstar in December 2026.
Mr Creupelandt lays out the key considerations, “Delivering an energy-efficient and sustainable operational profile through hybrid diesel-electric Rolls Royce engines, enhancing guest comfort with thoughtfully designed all-suite accommodations, and expanding onboard amenities to support Windstar’s signature relaxed luxury style. Interior spaces were crafted to reflect Windstar’s brand identity – intimate, upscale and casually elegant – with a focus on regional relevance and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.”

Homing in on the energy efficiency and environmentally friendly aspects, Mr Creupelandt explains Star Seeker is powered by Rolls Royce hybrid diesel-electric engines – one of the most advanced propulsion technologies in small-ship cruising. “This setup significantly reduces fuel consumption, emissions and noise, creating a more sustainable and serene experience at sea,” he says.
The engines use a catalytic reduction system for exhaust gas ensuring compliance to international and local regulations. Additionally, the yacht is outfitted with modern wastewater and waste stream treatment and energy-saving systems, supporting Windstar’s commitment to cleaner cruising and environmental stewardship. It will be outfitted with shore power capability to enable it to plug into the electric grid at port where facilities exist to further reduce emissions.
Asked what the most innovative aspects of the ship are, Mr Creupelandt says, “Innovation on Star Seeker comes to life through the integration of sustainability, spaciousness and personalisation. Highlights include its hybrid propulsion system and a reimagined all-suite layout – marking the first yacht in our fleet to feature infinity windows (or full verandas in select suites) – for an unparalleled connection to the sea. Guests can also enjoy elevated dining such as Basil + Bamboo, a unique fusion restaurant blending Mediterranean and Asian flavours. Star Seeker further features Windstar’s signature water sports platform, allowing guests to enjoy complimentary watersports right from the yacht.”
Turning to the interior design, he says, “The goal was to marry Windstar’s relaxed, yacht-style ambiance with a contemporary, international sense of approachable luxury. Key design priorities included maximising natural light, using locally inspired materials and artwork, and creating communal spaces that feel inviting yet refined. The design team focused on crafting a “home at sea” atmosphere that encourages connection while offering intimate privacy.”
He says Windstar aimed to express its ’180 degrees from ordinary’ ethos through Star Seeker’s interior design, creating spaces that bring people together, can be used for multiple purposes and feel warm and deeply connected to the destinations visited. “The interiors reflect an upscale, unpretentious lifestyle where every element invites guests to feel relaxed and immersed in their surroundings, from the suites to the culinary venues,” he adds.
Mr Creupelandt says one standout is the new Basil + Bamboo restaurant. This venue offers a sophisticated blend of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, serving dishes such as miso black cod and citrus olive oil cake with Greek yogurt ice cream. Another highlight is the airy Yacht Club Café, a social hub for coffee, pastries, and light bites during the day that transforms into an intimate lounge in the evening with subtle music and cocktails – a place for guests to connect after a day of new adventures. These spaces exemplify Windstar’s thoughtful approach to culinary artistry and approachable luxury.
Star Seeker’s maiden voyage will be a transatlantic sailing from Malaga to Miami. After a christening event in Miami, where the cruise line is headquartered, Star Seeker will sail in the Caribbean before a full season of summer cruises in Alaska. The ship will then sail to Japan, marking the return of Windstar’s popular Japanese itineraries before heading to southeast Asia. As Star Seeker will be the first ship in the fleet with an ice-strengthened hull, it will also be able to sail in polar regions and Windstar has stated the fleet expansion will enable the line to broaden its destination portfolio.
Windstar is also embarking on a multi-million-dollar update of its three Wind-class classic sailing yachts. The project encompasses a full redesign of all public spaces with new layouts, furniture, wall and floor coverings, lighting and custom art. The Owner’s suites are being redesigned, and all staterooms will receive new decor. Elsewhere, there will be a new pool, expanded bar areas and a redesigned spa and gym.
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