"Islands of the Western Mediterranean" Windstar Cruises on board experience

This Spring my husband and I sailed with Windstar Cruises and I wanted to share with you our wonderful experience. This was a 6-night itinerary from Barcelona to Rome which we combined with pre and post stay. The weather for the end of April most of the time was in the lower 70s, perfect for exploring!
​We embarked the 150 guest Windstar Yacht at Barcelona Cruise Port, located in the city center. There was no line and  It took us less than 10 minutes to go thru check in and security.

Wind Star docked in Port of Barcelona, Spain

Our stateroom was located on the lowest level (Deck 1), but we found it very spacious at 188 sq ft, which is larger than staterooms we've had before on a similar size ships. It had two porthole windows. We really liked the ample closet space (2 closet + 1 dresser), and additional space we found  under the bed to store our suitcases. There was a sitting area which we often used for in room complimentary dining. The bathroom had vanity with granite countertop and luxurious L'Occitane bath amenities.
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Our cabin Cat BX Deluxe

L'occitane Bath Amenities

​We left the port with a traditional raising of the sails ceremony and complimentary glass of  mimosa. During our voyage, we visited the famed islands of Palma de Mallorca, Corsica, Sardinia, & Elba.  I will write a separate blog for each port visited individually.

Sail away

On board Windstar, it truly felt like you are on your own private mega yacht. Tastefully decorated in nautical color palette furniture, the common areas were spacious and we never had to wait in line to dine or order from the bar.  With its open seating policy, Amphora Restaurant was the main dining room for dinner.  The complimentary Specialty Candles Restaurant offered romantic Al Fresco dining under the starts. The Veranda Restaurant with Al Fresco dining , located on the top deck was open for breakfast and lunch and served rich choice of buffet dining. There was a signature BBQ evening, which took place inside (due to weather) where favorites like roasted lobster tail, roasted pig and lamb chops were served.
Included in your cruise fare are soft drinks, specialty coffees & teas, bottle water, and smoothies. Alcohol beverages are an add on, but we've noticed that the prices for a glass of wine or cocktail were pretty reasonable - about $8

Amphora Restaurant Dining

Since the median age was typically 55, being in our 30s, we were pleasantly surprised to see some other couples in our age group. Windstar brand caters to adults only, there are not children facilities on board.
The entertainment options on board are somewhat limited, mainly because the focus is on the destination, and the small size of the vessel. With that said, I should mention the Lounge offered a port of call briefing before dinner and a live music performing after dinner .There was a mini casino adjacent to it. During sea days, most of the guests gather on the top deck forward, where the mini pool, jaccuzi and the Tropical bar were located. When weather permits, the Watersports Marina located at the aft of the ship is open, and offers complimentary kayak, paddleboard, snorkeling, and optional scuba.
 Lastly Windstar has an open bridge policy meaning if you wish you may visit the Bridge where you can observe how the Captain and officers navigate the ship.

Mini Casino

The Pool Deck

.A memorable experience of our Windstar Voyage was a complimentary private event organized by the cruise line in Palma de Mallorca. Guest were treated with a private art collection viewing followed by cocktail reception and local dance performance in the March Palace located in the Old Town near the Gothic Architecture Cathedral "Le Seu". Check my YouTube Video of the event youtu.be/kTp3fxKR4Gg
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Al-fresco dining at Candles restaurant

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