Windstar Cruises has experienced unprecedented demand for its 2026 Japan voyages aboard its new ship, Star Seeker, which will join the company's fleet in December 2025.
In response, Windstar is opening bookings for spring 2027 to Japan ahead of schedule and adding an extra date in the fall to meet customer demand for more available trips to the region. From Tokyo to Kyoto, the 10-night Grand Japan includes a variety of the country's top attractions (plus a stop in Busan, South Korea) on an intimate cruise.
“Just months after announcing our plans for Japan in 2026, we are almost completely sold out,” says Janet Bava, Chief Commercial Officer of Windstar Cruises. “The combination of our return to Asia for the first time since 2023, along with the anticipation of a new ship and the fact that Japan is now one of the most visited countries in the world, has generated an excitement for this region that we haven’t seen before.”
Star Seeker will cross the Pacific from Alaska to Japan in early September 2026, when Windstar will resume its popular Grand Japan with five sailings through October. Spring 2027 sailings will take place on seven sailings from March to May.
Highlights of the Grand Japan Cruise include scenic sailing on the Inland Sea; a voyage around the abandoned island of Hashima; visits to the Peace Memorial Parks in Nagasaki and Hiroshima; and stops at smaller ports such as Takamatsu (famous for its gardens and udon) and Karatsu, with its stunning castle. Cruisers can extend their stay with the Kyoto & the Zen of Japan Cruise, which includes visits to Kyoto's interior, where guests can enjoy hot springs, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, and visit the Golden Pavilion. Additionally, spring dates offer the opportunity to see Japan's famous cherry blossoms.
Along with the announcement, Windstar is offering an early bird deal that includes an all-inclusive fare upgrade, which includes Wi-Fi, gratuities, and unlimited beer, wine, and select cocktails, plus one onboard credit per stateroom. The offer expires on February 28, 2025. In addition, only a 15 percent deposit is required to book, with the final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
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