Windstar Cruises unveiled its newest all-suite yacht, Star Seeker, during its christening ceremony in Miami on January 15. Following the ceremony, Star Seeker set sail on an 8-night inaugural cruise from Miami to San Juan, with stops in the Dominican Republic and the British Virgin Islands. In 2026, Star Seeker will explore the Caribbean and Alaska before sailing to Japan and Southeast Asia, with an emphasis on immersive voyages in Thailand and Vietnam.
Libby Anschutz —daughter of Windstar owner Phil Anschutz— was the star of the Star Seeker christening ceremony, where she delivered a heartfelt message with good wishes for the yacht and for all who will sail on board.
In a moment steeped in maritime tradition, the ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle against the hull officially named and welcomed Star Seeker to the fleet, underscoring the Anschutz family's vision of warm and thoughtfully designed sea voyages. Libby's role as godmother continues a significant family connection with Windstar, reminiscent of the christening of Star Pride by her mother, Mrs. Nancy Anschutz. Libby's sister, Sarah Anschutz, is scheduled to christen Windstar's second new ship, Star Explorer, in June 2027 in London.
Windstar President Christopher Prelog opened the event by highlighting what makes Windstar special and why guests return. “It’s the way you feel when you’re aboard a Windstar ship. The smiles of the crew, the genuine conversation, the kindness and care that permeate the ship every day. This is the Windstar culture that has been part of the company since it began with two small sailboats, and it continues to this day.”.
Star Seeker's captain, Tom Schofield, shared how meaningful it is to see a ship come to life once the crew and guests come aboard, and then introduced his senior officers and crew. Three current ship godmothers were notably present to welcome the new ship and its godmother: Mrs. Louise Andren, godmother of Windstar's first ship, Wind Star, and wife of founder Karl Andren; Mrs. Nancy Anschutz, godmother of Star Pride and wife of owner Phil Anschutz; and Mrs. Gloria Bohan, godmother of Star Legend and a leader in the travel industry.
Pastor Bill White of Christ Journey Church offered a blessing for the ship before the evening concluded with a farewell fireworks display over the harbor.
The Star Seeker is the first new build in the Star Class fleet, designed for just 224 guests and created to reflect Windstar’s distinctive style: intimate, immersive, and elegantly natural. It features 112 beautifully appointed accommodations—most with private verandas or floor-to-ceiling infinity windows—including two new aft-facing Owner’s Horizon Suites with wraparound balconies. Designed for comfort and elegance, the suites include walk-in glass-paneled showers, fully stocked minibars, and premium amenities in the higher categories.
Onboard, guests can enjoy five complimentary restaurants, a full-service spa with a striking two-level entrance, and a redesigned marina with direct ocean access. In 2027, Star Seeker will return to Alaska—with itineraries such as the 7-day Scenic Alaska and 10-day Alaskan Splendor—and to Japan with its 10-day Grand Japan, the introduction of a new Destination Discovery Event in Tomonoura, and the addition of a new Mystery Cruise.
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