The US$250 million Star Plus initiative will impact all aspects of the onboard experience
By
Elly Yates-Roberts |
Windstar Cruises is to carry out multi-million dollar renovations and ship lengthening projects for Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride.
The US$250 million Star Plus initiative, which will take place between October 2019 and November 2020 at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, will improve every aspect of the onboard experience. In addition, Windstar will replace the seven engines on each ship with four more environmentally friendly engines that will use cleaner fuel to reduce emissions.
“This exciting initiative is our 180 degree from ordinary solution to add new capacity and major enhancements to the guest experience in a very time efficient manner,” said John Delaney, president of Windstar. “The initiative not only creates beautiful new suites and public spaces, but we will also take the opportunity to re-engine the ships with a more fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible propulsion system. This will be a true game changer for Windstar and our small ship cruise experience.”
All three vessels will be extended to just over 138 metres in length, which will increase their capacity by 100 passengers but ensure that they remain small enough to access the smaller ports and harbours that feature on Windstar’s itineraries.
“Given our expertise as a leader in major cruise ship renovations and lengthening projects, we are gratified to be chosen by Windstar to undertake this complex and extensive endeavour,” said Giorgio Rizzo, executive senior vice president of Fincantieri Services. “We look forward to working with the Windstar team to totally transform these elegant small ships.”
Windstar has partnered with designer Ray Chung of The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry to create modern public spaces on the vessels. They will include two new dining locations; retail spaces; 50 new open-plan suites; two new three-bedroom, two-balcony Owner’s Suites; new bathrooms for existing suites; a larger pool and hot tub; and an entirely new spa and fitness centre. Crew accommodation will also be upgraded. Windstar plans to hire additional crew to maintain the line’s 1.5:1 guest to staff ratio.
“This major investment is an efficient way to build on a winning brand that shows strong momentum and growth potential,” said Andrew Todd, president and CEO of Xanterra Travel Collection. “Support for this exciting new initiative demonstrates our commitment to Windstar as an important part of the Xanterra portfolio.”