Windstar moves full sail ahead

Windstar Cruises reports that advance bookings on 2013 sailings are 60% ahead of last year. Based on current pace, 2013 will mark the fourth straight year of increasing revenue for the small-ship cruise line. As part of its private yacht vision, Windstar invested $18 million in a fleet-wide renovation project, scheduled to be complete by the end of this year. Funded by Xanterra Parks and Resorts, who purchased Windstar Cruises in May of 2011, the 12-month project will enhance the guest experience from stem to stern on all three sailing yachts with updated décor, furniture, carpeting, upholstery and artwork in all public areas, staterooms and suites. In addition, 72,000 square feet of new, hand-crafted sails were replaced fleet-wide. Renovations on the Wind Star yacht were completed in April, while Wind Surf and Wind Spirit will complete renovation in December. New and unique itineraries are also part of Windstar’s success. Smaller ports of call are only one attribute of Windstar’s revamped itineraries. In 2013, guests can experience exclusive, once-in-lifetime land tours offered on select voyages. On the popular Yachting the Riviera voyage, sailing from Rome to Nice, guests can experience the Monaco Grand Prix highlighted by exclusive access to Formula One’s famous race. Windstar’s Gaelic Explorers voyage, sailing from Edinburgh to Dublin, offers guests the opportunity to golf at five of the world’s greatest courses with the Legendary Links package. (http://www.WindstarCruises.com)