Bookings for Windstar 's Asia cruises in 2027 have nearly doubled compared to the same period last year, prompting the launch of the 2028/2029 Asia season aboard the new Star Seeker, a 112-suite ship that will offer access to city centers such as Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, overnight stops, and immersive cultural experiences.
Driven by strong demand for travel to Asia, Windstar Cruises will expand its presence in the region with a new season that will tour Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore, combining overnight stays in port, expanded land programs and access to destinations that larger ships cannot reach.
As of June 2026, bookings for 2027 Asian itineraries have almost doubled compared to the previous year, reflecting the growing interest in the small-ship exploration model and the focus on cultural discovery that characterizes the company.
In addition, Windstar has launched a new early booking promotion for those who book before July 31, 2026, which includes the best selection of cabins, a free all-inclusive package, onboard credits per passenger, and an additional 5% discount for those who pay for the entire trip at the time of booking.
“We are seeing extraordinary enthusiasm for Asia, with bookings far exceeding those of previous years,” said Janet Bava, Chief Commercial Officer of Windstar Cruises.
“Travelers are looking for more immersive and personal experiences. With Star Seeker, we can dock much closer to the cultural centers of cities like Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, visit smaller ports, and create connections with local culture that simply aren't possible on larger ships.”
Windstar is committed to a more personalized way of discovering Asia. Designed to maximize the destination experience, Star Seeker will feature 112 spacious suites, most equipped with a private terrace or panoramic tilt-and-turn window, in addition to the intimate ambiance and personalized service characteristic of the company. Its smaller size allows access to destinations not typically served by larger cruise ships. For example, it can sail directly to the heart of cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok, bypassing the more distant ports usually used by larger vessels, such as Phu My or Laem Chabang.
You can also visit smaller destinations in the region, such as the limestone cliffs of Krabi, the beaches and villages of Ko Yao Noi, or the island of Ko Kood, where Windstar will hold its traditional beach party with barbecue and water activities.
The company will also continue to offer its exclusive Destination Discovery Events, land-based experiences designed specifically for its passengers. In Japan, for example, the Traditions of Tomonoura & the Inland Sea program will allow guests to discover a historic port city through tea ceremonies, traditional koto music, Edo-era streets, and exclusive visits to the historic Ota family residence.
As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar also maintains a strong commitment to gastronomy. Passengers can enjoy cuisine inspired by the destinations they visit and participate in culinary excursions and visits to local markets, from Singapore's famous hawker centers to Thailand's floating markets.
Star Seeker's Asian season will include 25 departures between September 2028 and May 2029, with four main itineraries and multiple combinations thanks to the Star Collector programs, which will allow trips of between 20 and 42 days, plus land extensions before and after the cruise.
Among the most outstanding itineraries are:
- Grand Japan (10 nights): from Tokyo to Osaka and Kyoto, with stops at lesser-known ports such as Karatsu and sailing through the Inland Sea of Japan.
- Vietnam & Cambodia Revealed (10 nights): with overnight stops in Ho Chi Minh City and Halong Bay/Hanoi.
- East Asian Legends (10 nights): tour of Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan.
- Tantalizing Thailand & Sparkling Singapore (11 nights): between Bangkok and Phuket, with floating markets, hidden islands and an overnight stay in Singapore.
- Legendary Temples: Chiang Mai & Angkor Wat Cruise Tour (18 nights): combining Southeast Asian cruising with visits to Chiang Mai and Angkor Wat.
- Grand Asia Explorer (41 nights): an extensive journey between Phuket and Tokyo that combines several Asian itineraries and includes sailing on the Saigon and Chao Phraya rivers.
Cruise Tours programs will allow you to extend your experience with stays of several days in some of Asia's most iconic destinations:
- Hanoi: visits to the Old Quarter, water puppet shows and food tours.
- Chiang Mai: Three nights in the cultural capital of northern Thailand, including temples, night markets, and an elephant sanctuary.
- Angkor Wat and Siem Reap: visits to the archaeological complex and the floating villages of Tonlé Sap lake.
- Kyoto: tea ceremonies, kimono experiences, and guided tours of historical monuments such as the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle.
Windstar encourages travelers to book early to secure the best fares, dates, and accommodation categories. The early booking promotion, valid until July 31, 2026, includes priority access to the most popular itineraries and dates, an additional 5% discount for those who pay for their trip in full at the time of booking, a free all-inclusive package, one onboard credit per person, and greater availability to add land extensions in destinations such as Hanoi, Chiang Mai, Kyoto, or Angkor Wat.
