Unprecedented demand for small ship cruises to Japan

Following "unprecedented demand" for its 2026 sailings in Japan on board its newest ship, Star Seeker, small ship luxury cruise line Windstar Cruises has opened up its 2027 Japan itineraries for booking earlier than planned. 

The cruise line has also added an extra 2026 sailing date.

“Just months after announcing our 2026 plans in Japan, we’re nearly sold out,” says Windstar Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava.

“The combination of our return to Asia for the first time since 2023, along with the anticipation of a new ship and the fact that Japan is now one of the world’s most-visited countries, has created an excitement for this region that we have not seen before.”

Star Seeker will cross the Pacific from Alaska to Japan in early September of 2026, where Windstar will bring back its popular 10-night Grand Japan itinerary on five dates through October. 

The spring 2027 sailings will take place on seven dates from March through May.

Grand Japan highlights include scenic cruising the Inland Sea; sailing around the abandoned island of Hashima; visiting the Peace Memorial Parks of Nagasaki and Hiroshima; and calling on smaller ports like Takamatsu (famous for its gardens and udon) and Karatsu.

Cruisers can also extend their stay with the Kyoto & the Zen of Japan Cruise Tour, featuring inland tours to Kyoto where guests can bathe in hot springs, experience a traditional tea ceremony, and visit the Golden Pavilion.

The 2027 spring dates also offer the potential to experience Japan’s famed cherry blossoms, and Star Seeker’s accommodations are poised for ample spring season sightseeing as most have balconies and infinity windows.

Windstar's early booking offer includes a free upgrade to All-Inclusive Fares (valued at US$99 per day or $157 per day),which bundle in wifi, gratuities and unlimited select beer, wine and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom.

The offer expires February 28, 2025.

To find out more call Windstar Australia on 1300 749 875 or email reservations@windstar.com.au.

New Windstar ship keeps it small but chic

If huge ships fill you with horror but you like the idea of more intimate cruises then small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has just unveiled a first look at its Star Seeker - a 224-guest ship that will debut in January of 2026.

Star Seeker will have just 112 suites, with all but 10 featuring either a private veranda or floor-to-ceiling infinity window.

The ship also boasts five dining options (all are included in Windstar’s cruise fare), a full-service spa, a fitness facility, and a fresh take on the line’s iconic Watersports Platform, which turns the ocean into an infinity pool by letting guests access the sea directly from the ship.

“Guests aboard Star Seeker will experience a sense of tranquillity in their suites; they are designed to be an oasis for relaxation,” says Stijn Creupelandt, vice-president of hotel operations at Windstar Cruises.

“We used light wood and a soothing colour palette of light blues, greens, and natural browns - elements that reflect our Star Class style.

“Inspired by the sea, sky, and landscapes, these colours and textures create a serene atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway. In the ship’s public spaces and restaurants, you’ll find more vibrant hues inspired by sunrises and sunsets, including warm yellows, golds, and oranges, ensuring a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort throughout the ship.”

Star Seeker features two Horizon Owner’s Suites, a new suite category for the line. Each comes with a wrap-around balcony.

There will be 12 different accommodation types to choose from, many allowing for triple occupancy.

As on all Windstar ships, there are no interior cabins.

Star Seeker is under construction in Portugal. The maiden voyage will be a Transatlantic sailing from Malaga to Miami.

More at https://www.windstarcruises.com/.