Windstar Cruises to christen Star Explorer in London in 2027
Windstar Cruises’ new all-suite yacht, Star Explorer, will become the first vessel to be christened at London’s Tower Bridge since 2003
Following a welcoming ceremony on 31 May 2027, the ship will pass under the landmark as it departs on a circumnavigation of Ireland.
Hosting 224 guests, the ship will sail year-round in Europe from December 2026, with its first full season of Europe cruises running through March 2028.
“Windstar has a long history of exploring in the Mediterranean and Europe, and the small size of this ship opens even more interesting places – including rivers,” said Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises.
“We specialise in creating itineraries that meld the bucket list with the unknown and unexpected that we know our guests will love.”
Due to its smaller size, Star Explorer can visit ports such as Rouen, Caen, Bordeaux and central London. Itineraries include overnights and longer stays in port, with the ship also debuting Windstar’s first call to Puerto Banús in Spain.
On board, guests will find 112 suites, including two Horizon Owner’s Suites with wraparound balconies, and many other accommodations with full verandas or infinity windows.
The update comes ahead of the launch of Star Explorer‘s sister ship, Star Seeker, this December. The line also recently announced its largest-ever collection of Caribbean and Latin America experiences, offering 35 sailings across ten itineraries, operated across four yacht-style ships.
New highlights include daylight Panama Canal transits, first-time shore excursions, and new tours to Machu Picchu.
Michele Hanson, product development manager at Windstar Cruises, said: “Windstar offers a quieter, more intimate take on the Caribbean, visiting smaller islands that larger ships can’t access – from the unspoiled beaches and coral reefs of the Grenadines to the French flair and Creole culture of Guadeloupe.”
Hanson added that guests can also enjoy unspoiled beaches in the Grenadines, and the French and Creole culture of Guadeloupe.
