The Wind Spirit, Windstar Cruises ' 4-masted assisted sailing ship , offers a season of adventure in the Canary Islands under the sun and charm of the islands with camel excursions through golden dunes, toboggan rides through volcanic lands to historic vineyards and stargazing under some of the clearest skies on the planet.
From November 2026 to January 2027, Windstar Cruises is charting a new course for the Canary Islands with new 9-night itineraries that explore a more authentic and tranquil side of the archipelago. Following their debut in the region in late 2025, these itineraries are enhanced with more immersive ports, renovated onboard spaces, and access to marinas that allow passengers to step directly onto the crystal-clear Atlantic.
Yacht-style cruises also include first-time visits to Porto Santo (Portugal) and El Hierro (Spain), two hidden gems known for their golden beaches, volcanic peaks, and timeless charm. With fewer crowds and more options, these trips offer a true lesson in leisurely travel.
New featured destinations:
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Porto Santo, Portugal – Once the residence of Christopher Columbus, this golden island is a haven of serenity with history, hiking trails and charming beach bars.
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El Hierro, Spain – A UNESCO Global Geopark that combines hiking trails, natural lava pools and the soul of slow tourism on the smallest island in the archipelago.
“We always strive to create itineraries that showcase the authentic heart of a destination, and these new Canary Islands voyages do exactly that,” commented Jess Peterson, Director of Destination Experience and Itinerary Planning. “By adding ports like Porto Santo and El Hierro—places that larger ships can’t easily visit—we offer our guests a more tranquil and natural experience of the Canaries, with all the comforts of a Windstar yacht.”
The itineraries will offer unforgettable moments on board and ashore: camel rides across the lunar dunes of Lanzarote, sculpted by centuries of wind and volcanoes; a toboggan run in Madeira (yes, a real one), followed by a glass of its famous fortified wine; starlit nights in La Palma, one of the world's best destinations for astronomy and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve; a privileged view of the New Year's fireworks in Madeira, enjoyed from the teak decks with a glass in hand; or hikes along the dramatic coastline of El Hierro, culminating in a refreshing dip in volcanic rock pools before dining under the stars.
Guests can extend their adventure with a Star Collector Voyage (more than 13 nights) or a Madrid Cruise Tour to combine island time with the urban experience.
It's also a great time to think about winter holidays, and the Canary Islands stand out as a lesser-known Christmas destination, ideal for those who prefer sand to snow. The archipelago offers a sophisticated and unique Christmas experience, where centuries-old traditions are celebrated under starry skies and temperatures of 23°C.
Following a recent refurbishment, the Wind Spirit features renovated suites and cabins, a revamped spa and gym, and modernized common areas for dining and relaxation. It will also debut Windstar's marine platform in select Canary Island ports, offering all-inclusive water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and floating mattresses directly from the yacht's stern.
The company has promotions available until August 31, 2025: Early Bird Offer: A complimentary All-Inclusive experience per stateroom on a 7-day cruise. Includes WiFi, unlimited wines and select spirits, gratuities, and more; onboard credit per stateroom, applicable to shore excursions, spa treatments, and other amenities; and the Pay Now, Save More promotion: An additional 5% discount on the cruise fare for those who pay in full at the time of booking (can be combined with the Early Bird Offer).
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