Windstar Cruises Unveils Star Breeze as the New Jewel of Tahiti's Seas
Star Breeze To Lead Windstar Cruises' French Polynesia Sailings
Whilst Elevating Cultural Immersion
Windstar Cruises have announced that Star Breeze will be replacing Wind Spirit as their chosen ship to sail year-round itineraries in Tahiti and French Polynesia.
In a grand celebration attended by over 500 guests, Windstar Cruises inaugurated its latest addition to Tahiti's cruising scene – the all-suite, 312-guest Star Breeze. The prestigious event marked a significant milestone for the cruise line, solidifying its commitment to providing unparalleled small ship experiences in Tahiti and French Polynesia. Guests at the event included local dignitaries such as Moetai Brotherson, President of French Polynesia; Tony Geros, Speaker of the House; Manouche Lehartel, Deputy Mayor of Papeete; as well as Air Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Tourism partners, port officials, travel advisors, media and Windstar executives. To commemorate the event, local artist Jessie Tiare Manutahi is on board to reveal an artistic Tahitian-inspired logo made up of symbols representing Windstar in Tahiti.
Replacing Wind Spirit, Star Breeze embarked on its maiden voyage in Tahiti on February 4th, showcasing its upgraded amenities, including multiple dining options, an enlarged spa and fitness centre, and spacious accommodations. Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises, emphasized that this strategic shift not only doubled capacity but also introduced new and enhanced experiences for travellers.
The vessel's relocation translates to faster travel to and from the islands of French Polynesia and the greater South Pacific, facilitating expansion to the remote Marquesas Islands with the introduction of the 14-day Tahitian Treasures & Magnificent Marquesas cruise in July 2024. Meanwhile, the 148-guest Wind Spirit will set sail in the Caribbean during the winter season and explore the Mediterranean and Greek Isles between May and November, strategically joining sister-ship Wind Star to meet the demand in this popular region.
Star Breeze's itineraries, visiting eleven islands and atolls in French Polynesia, promise enriched cultural onboard experiences, featuring local collaborations such as an evening of "arearea" French Polynesian fun with local group Mamas and the Papas demonstrating how to make a lei, tie a pareo and enjoy Tahitian music and dancing. Windstar are also hiring local team members in the service department, and will have a French Polynesian cultural ambassador on each cruise organising various events. Guests can also look forward to new shore excursions such as sailing on a cultural catamaran cruise in Raiatea, and being able to refresh their PADI certification in Papeete prior to the cruise. The ship will display local artwork and will also promote Tahitian media including movies, music channels, books and board games plus provide turndown gifts made in the islands.
The cruise line is also committed to environmental sustainability through its partnership with Coral Gardeners, offering guests two new shore excursions to visit headquarters, coral nurseries, and learn about coral protection in an interactive way. Windstar aims to support 5,000 corals in a dedicated nursery by 2025.
Continuing its strong partnerships with island communities, Air Tahiti Nui, and Tahiti Tourism, Windstar introduces extended hotel stays, combining the cruise experience with on-land activities. The cruise line also offers air and hotel packages, along with a unique foodie cruise tour combining the Dreams of Tahiti cruise with a stay at Moorea's Hotel Manava Beach Resort and Spa.
Guests can still enjoy Windstar's signature events, including the Bora Bora Destination Discovery Event and the opportunity to swim directly off Windstar's Watersports Platform with complimentary paddle boards, kayaks, floating mats, and snorkel gear.
Christopher Prelog, expressing his love for Tahiti, stated, "We have dialed in our itineraries and curated cultural experiences on and off the ship. We can't wait to share it with more travellers."
For more details on Windstar's small ship Tahiti cruises, visit their official website.