On February 4, Windstar 's Star Breeze began its journey in Tahiti, after a ceremony attended by more than 500 guests, including the President of French Polynesia, Moetai Brotherson .
Other prominent figures in attendance included the Chairman of the Chamber, Tony Geros , and the Deputy Mayor of Papeete, Manouche Lehartel, as well as partners from Air Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Tourism, port officials, travel advisors, media representatives, and Windstar executives.
This change means that the Star Breeze replaces the smaller Wind Spirit in Windstar's operations in French Polynesia.
To celebrate this milestone, local artist Jessie Tiare Manutahi joined guests on board to unveil a logo inspired by Tahitian culture that represents Windstar in Tahiti.
Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises, noted: “This strategic shift not only doubles our capacity but also offers new experiences thanks to the Breeze’s diverse dining options, expanded spa and fitness center, and spacious accommodations. Guests aboard the Star Breeze will continue to explore Tahiti’s remote harbors, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches with Windstar’s signature small-ship style.”
Prelog also noted that this change allows for faster travel to and from the islands of French Polynesia and the South Pacific, including the Marquesas Islands, with the new 14-day “Tahitian Treasures and Magnificent Marquesas” , scheduled for July 2024.
The Wind Spirit, with a capacity for 148 passengers, will be deployed in other regions. Meanwhile, the Star Breeze will explore 11 islands and atolls of French Polynesia starting in 2024, offering new cultural experiences and other features such as:
- A fun evening in French Polynesia “arearea” with a local group, the Mamas and the Papas, where guests can learn how to make a lei, tie a sarong, and enjoy Tahitian music and dancing;
- Hiring local team members in the service department;
- A cultural ambassador of French Polynesia on each cruise organizing events such as Tahitian dance and language classes, crafts, ukulele performances and much more;
- New shore excursions;
- Local works of art that decorate the ship;
- Tahitian media, such as movies, music channels, books, and board games; farewell gifts made on the islands.
As part of its partnership with Coral Gardeners, two new shore excursions take guests to the headquarters to meet the team, tour the coral nurseries, and learn about the importance of protecting corals. To date, Windstar and its guests have adopted more than 2,500 corals with Coral Gardeners, with the goal of opening a nursery dedicated to 5,000 corals by 2025.
Prelog concluded: “We have adjusted our itineraries and organized cultural experiences on and off the ship. We are eager to share this with more travelers.”
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
