Windstar Cruises will require proof of COVID-19 vaccination from all passengers sailing aboard Windstar yachts. The cruise line has made this decision in the interest of the health and well-being of its passengers, crew, and the destinations the yachts visit. Many Windstar destinations and some airlines have announced or are considering requiring vaccination as well, which supports Windstar's new policy.
“In response to health recommendations, Windstar has developed a new “Beyond Ordinary Care” program, with key hospital-grade elements: HEPA filters and germicidal UV-C irradiation to filter and disinfect the air, plus sprayers to disinfect all surfaces on our yachts,” said Andrew Todd, CEO of Windstar and parent company Xanterra Travel Collection.
“Vaccination is another layer of safety for all of us, and it’s the responsible way to act as our yachts resume sailing and our guests travel the world,” said Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises.
Due to current reports and the increased availability of vaccines in the United States and abroad, Windstar is confident that customers wishing to sail with the line will have time to get vaccinated before traveling. Crew members will be required to get vaccinated as soon as a vaccine becomes available to them. This Windstar policy is subject to change based on CDC guidelines, and Windstar will periodically review this and all other COVID-19 policies to update them as the pandemic evolves.
Windstar will resume operations in June 2021 in a phased manner, with cruises operating at reduced passenger capacity, some modified itineraries, and enhanced health and safety protocols. To offer customers greater flexibility, Windstar has moved the final payment due date from 120 to 60 days prior to departure.
The schedule for resuming operations is as follows:
- Star Breeze – June 19, 2021 – Caribbean
- Wind Star – June 19, 2021 – Mediterranean
- Wind Spirit – July 15, 2021 – Tahiti
- Wind Surf – August 8, 2021 – Mediterranean
- Star Legend – September 4, 2021 – Northern Europe
- Star Pride – November 3, 2021 – Caribbean
Passengers must present proof of complete vaccination (one or two doses depending on the brand) at the terminal before boarding, provided the vaccination was completed at least 14 days prior to the departure date. A negative COVID-19 test result will also be required before boarding.
