Windstar Cruises begins multi-million-dollar yacht refurbishment project

The multi-year initiative began on 13 December, as Wind Star completed stage one of refurbishments in Lisbon. This included an expansion of the lobby, with extended retail space; an overhaul of the lounge and pool deck; and the addition of amenities, including state-of-the-art speakers, furniture and gym equipment. Windstar has partnered with Fountainhead Arts, Miami, to source a curated collection of artworks for all three yachts. 

A second stage, completing in 2026, will include renovations of the remaining staterooms and dining venues. 

Refurbishment of Wind Spirit is set for 2025, and the Wind Surf project will take place in 2024 and 2026. 

Stijn Creupelandt, Windstar’s vice president of hotel operations and product development, summarised the goals of the project: “This multi-year, multi-million-dollar initiative is all about providing guests with updated spaces that inspire relaxation, foster connection and offer multifunctional needs of an intimate-sized sailing yacht.

Jessica Payne, Windstar’s manager of interior design, added: “The design inspiration really developed from the yachts themselves. I studied classic and modern yacht architecture to develop the sophisticated design foundation, and then went on to add pops of fun and peaks of relief inspired by our sails, the sea, the cities we visit and our guests.” 

Christopher Prelog, Windstar president, reiterated the importance of the renovation project, and said: “Being on a ship under sail is unforgettable and brings an element of freedom and romance to every voyage.”