Windstar Cruises is introducing a new river-to-ocean cruising category, designed to “help agents retain and grow their most valuable clients”, the line said

Windstar’s newest all-suite yacht, Star Explorer, which launches in December this year, will be the focus for the new cruises.

The 224-passenger ship will sail a selection of European itineraries in 2027, including the 10-night Impressionist France departure from Bordeaux to London which pairs the Seine and the Thames, and the eight-night Connoisseur’s Delight: Northern Spain and Portugal departure which sails on the Garonne and Gironde rivers as well as the Spanish coast.

Windstar said the itineraries will give agents a “powerful way to expand their river cruise business while retaining their most loyal clients”, as instead of losing guests who have already sailed Europe’s major rivers, “agents can build on the same intimate, destination-focused experience while opening the door to new regions and itineraries”.

Janet Bava, chief commercial officer for Windstar Cruises, said: “River cruisers are among the most loyal and engaged travellers, but many have already explored the world’s most iconic waterways.

“With Windstar, agents now have a seamless way to retain those clients by offering something new: yachts that move from rivers to the open sea, unlocking destinations that traditional river ships and large ocean vessels simply can’t reach. It’s a natural next step for clients and a growth opportunity for agents.”