Windstar Cruises has postponed its planned launch in the Middle East.

The 312-guest vessel Star Legend was due to begin a series of cruises in the region from November 2024, but on Tuesday (24 October), Windstar Cruises president Christopher Prelog confirmed the line has delayed its debut in the area.

Alternatively, Windstar will sail a series of itineraries on Star Legend from December 2023 to April 2024 to ports such as Barcelona, Nice, Florence/Livorno, Marseille and Rome.

Windstar Cruises to offer new European season

“The ship was originally scheduled to sail in the Middle East. We’ve postponed our launch in that region to begin in November 2024,” said Prelog.

“With a ship in the Mediterranean, we saw an opportunity to offer guests a legendary winter season in Europe. Our small ships and intimate atmosphere provide a truly unique way to explore Europe’s winter wonderlands, while enjoying the magic of the season and the comforts and casual luxury that Windstar is known for.”

Sixteen cruises will sail between Rome and Barcelona (or reverse) visiting Florence, Pisa and Marseille with overnights in Rome, Nice and Barcelona.

Earlier this year, Augustus Lonsdale, the line’s head of UK sales, explained his key aims in the role and what travel agents can expect.