Windstar Cruises to Return to Alaska & Japan with New Ship Star Seeker
Reach for the Stars for your cruise to Alaska or Japan with new Windstar Star Seeker
Windstar Star Seeker Render. Image: Windstar Star Seeker
Windstar Cruises has announced exciting plans for its newest ship, Star Seeker, which will join the fleet in 2026. The ship is set to explore the scenic wonders of Alaska and Japan, marking Windstar’s return to these destinations since 2023, when Star Breeze was redeployed to Tahiti as a year-round vessel.
“We are really happy to be able to bring back Alaska and Japan for our guests,” said Windstar’s President, Christopher Prelog. “We know these are popular destinations, and we have many people asking us to return there.”
Star Seeker will offer Alaskan cruises from May through August 2026, with itineraries ranging from 7 to 11 days, sailing between Juneau or Seward and Vancouver. Guests will also have the option of pre- and post-cruise land tours to Denali. Following the Alaskan season, Star Seeker will head to Japan in late August to commence the 10-day Grand Japan cruises, sailing between Tokyo and Osaka, remaining in Japan until November.
Windstar plans to make Star Seeker’s new deployment details available and bookable online by early August 2024.
In Alaska, Windstar will employ expedition leaders on board to lead its Signature Expeditions, continuing the tradition of offering intimate and immersive experiences. Guests can look forward to guided hikes, kayaking, and skiff expeditions to explore remote wilderness areas such as Misty Fjords. These small group adventures are led by expert guides who provide insightful context throughout the journey. Onboard presentations will also be given, highlighting Alaska’s rich history, culture, flora, and fauna.
“These immersive, small group expeditions are a key part of our Alaska programme and bring our guests closer to the beauty of Alaska,” said Prelog. “Being on the water and seeing the topography from that viewpoint brings the grandeur of Alaska into perspective. It’s also quiet and meditative to be out in these wild places. You never know what wildlife you might see.”
In April, Windstar announced the addition of two new ships, Star Seeker and Star Explorer, to its fleet of boutique yachts. Each ship will feature 112 suites, accommodating 224 guests, and will be similar to the line’s current Star Class motor yachts. Star Seeker is scheduled for delivery in December 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December 2026.
For more information or to make a reservation, call 0808 178 2233 or visit www.windstarcruises.com.
Star Seeker and Star Explorer Renders. Images: Windstar Cruises