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December 27, 2023

One of the most exciting developments this winter in terms of cruise itineraries is undoubtedly the presence of Windstar Cruises in the Mediterranean. An extremely interesting proposal from various perspectives, which we had the opportunity to experience during the inaugural cruise of the extraordinary Legendary Winter aboard the Star Legend.

Winter itineraries in the Mediterranean are usually quite limited, exclusive to a few European cruise brands. These typically involve large fleets, with a travel concept that sees the ship itself as the primary destination of the vacation. Windstar Cruises‘ decision was certainly initially driven by the need to move Star Legend from the Middle East, where its winter season was originally planned. However, it was not a simple repositioning, as a truly unique and deeply interesting itinerary was carefully designed.

Star Legend is a human-sized ship, one of the large yachts that make up half of the Windstar Cruises fleet, renowned for its sailboats as well. Onboard, the atmosphere is welcoming, comfortable, and well-maintained. It undeniably offers a luxurious service but in a simple, casual atmosphere without stiffness. This conveys a sense of well-being, making guests feel at home within minutes of being on board. The suites are spacious, even in the basic accommodations, with 24-hour room service and impeccable cleanliness.

The onboard dining options are numerous, considering that the ship accommodates only up to 312 passengers. Amphora is the main restaurant, open in the evening with carefully crafted dishes served with a high level of presentation. The Veranda Restaurant is a balanced compromise between a rich buffet and an excellent selection of à la carte dishes, both for breakfast and lunch. In the evening, the same space transforms into the Steakhouse Candles, where you can savor excellent meats as well as fish and seafood. The offerings are completed by Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, where you can indulge in selections of tapas and traditional Spanish dishes, and the Star Grill, located outdoors on the deck above the pool.

Embarkation on Star Legend is possible from both Civitavecchia (Italy) and Barcelona (Spain), the two homeports chosen for this weekly itinerary, both served by a wide selection of flights. The inspiring philosophy of the itinerary, appropriately named “Legendary Winter”, is to experience some Mediterranean cities with a different perspective than usual. This is especially true during the comfort of the low season, avoiding the hectic experiences in crowded places with stifling heat and long lines to visit churches and museums. It also takes advantage of very long port calls and three overnights, allowing guests to fully experience the culture and traditions of the cities, even in the evening, perhaps dining in a special restaurant without the rush that usually characterizes these itineraries.

Winter also offers a special touch to these cities, revealing their true essence, enjoying them in the most intimate moments, getting to know the locals, and breathing in unique atmospheres. Imagine attending Christmas Mass in Rome, visiting the Christmas markets in Nice or Monte Carlo, or spending New Year’s in Barcelona or the entire Carnival period, celebrated on the French Riviera as well as in Spain and Italy.

The itinerary also includes an extremely comfortable embarkation, as both in Civitavecchia and Barcelona, the vacation begins a day before the ship departs. This means having maximum flexibility in embarkation times, choosing the most convenient flight and not having predetermined arrival times at the port. At the time of disembarkation, you can comfortably choose to leave the ship the night before if necessary or organize the return trip with the utmost freedom.

The scheduled overnights are in Civitavecchia, Nice, and Barcelona. Planning excursions and deciding to visit these cities with such a spacious time frame adds value to the cruise, allowing guests to leisurely experience the ports. This is also because Star Legend offers a relaxed atmosphere that often truly encourages enjoying pleasant moments on board, among the excellent cafes and sofas of the Yacht Club or the welcoming Compass Rose, the ship’s main lounge.

Marseille and Livorno, where the ship stays for an entire day, represent other interesting opportunities to experience the cities during less crowded moments. Consider, for example, the comfort of visiting Florence or Pisa without the lengthy lines that form at the Uffizi or in Piazza dei Miracoli in summer. Or breathe in the intimacy of the Vieux Port in Marseille in January rather than in August.

But there’s more. The choice of cities like those listed ensures guests the guarantee of lively and animated locations at any time of the year. Rome, Barcelona, Nice, Marseille offer attractions and great vitality throughout the year, providing a glimpse into local life that will be pleasant to immerse in even in the heart of winter. Returning on board and sipping a hot drink while waiting for the next port is the added value of this itinerary offered by Windstar Cruises.

The length of port stays and the three overnights also offer travelers who may have already visited these cities before the opportunity to broaden their knowledge of the regions by moving to nearby cities or undertaking slightly more distant excursions, without the stress of very tight schedules or hectic rhythms. Thus, the scenario could significantly expand, including a wide range of locations that make this type of itinerary interesting for everyone.

Returning on board and enjoying the spacious free Spa, or the modern Fitness Center, or even taking a dip in the heated pool or the two large onboard Jacuzzis are moments of regeneration and relaxation that add value to this extraordinary winter itinerary. Star Legend offers a welcoming environment to experience all this, with a range of human-sized comforts and services that represent a revolutionary alternative in the field of winter cruises in the Mediterranean. Extraordinary quality is offered in a well-maintained, friendly, and sophisticated environment when needed.

For U.S. guests, Legendary Winter represents a unique opportunity to discover a completely different Mediterranean and get up close to unforgettable cities like Rome, Marseille, and Barcelona in their true essence, without the stress of the summer season. For European or other international guests, it is an extraordinary opportunity to get to know an innovative and high-value brand, usually not available during this period on Mediterranean itineraries. Moreover, with a truly surprising value for money, allowing for two experiences in one: an exclusive and innovative itinerary and an onboard experience that will make those familiar with the usual reality of winter Mediterranean itineraries reconsider the concept of cruising.

Stay tuned for further news, updates, and reviews of Windstar Cruises on Cruising Journal with photos, videos, and cruise deals.

Gabriele Bassi

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