Sarah Bretz, ContributorWindstar Cruises has officially kicked off its ruby anniversary sailing season, marking 40 years since the company’s founding.
The milestone celebration brought together two of Windstar’s iconic vessels — a Star Class motor yacht and Wind Class sailing yacht — last night in the port of Kusadasi, Turkey. The 312-guest Star Legend and the 148-guest Wind Spirit docked together as guests and crew disembarked for an exclusive event at the historic ruins of Ephesus, featuring the largest dinner Windstar has ever hosted at the site. Windstar executives along with the company’s ownership, captains, crew, and guests from both ships enjoyed a special evening in the ancient archeological site.
Windstar Cruises typically offers this four-course, al fresco dining experience complimentary to guests on all sailings in the region for 20 years. However, last night’s event elevated the tradition with not one, but two ships in attendance. Additional entertainment from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra and vocalists, a progressive cocktail party, and several speeches commemorated the company’s 40-year journey.
Windstar’s Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava and Chief Operations Officer Stijn Creupelandt welcomed attendees, including recognizing Windstar’s Yacht Club Members (the line’s returning guests) and welcomed guests on their first Windstar cruise into the Windstar family.
Wind Spirit’s Captain Mark Rowden and Star Legend’s Captain Pedro Pinto spoke about their lengthy seafaring careers and how Windstar has made a positive impact within the cruising industry. Both recognized Windstar’s exceptional crew, many of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years.
“Windstar wouldn’t be the company it is today without the love and support of our owners at Xanterra Travel Collection and The Anschutz Corporation,” Bava explained to event attendees. “With their support we were able to survive the most challenging years in cruise history while expanding the fleet and renovating our ships when the whole world was standing still. With the acquisition of two new ships to the investments being made to elevate our existing fleet, including our beloved Wind class ships that will be completed renovated by 2027, there are plenty of reasons we are so excited for the next 40 years of Windstar.”
Windstar Cruises was founded by Karl Andren and Jean-Claude Potier in 1984 with an innovative vision for a fleet of modern sail cruisers. The line will celebrate its 40th anniversary fleetwide through October 2025 with additional activations and memorable moments, like complimentary Ruby Anniversary cocktails served at a special 40 years of Windstar trivia event on board (winners will be entered into a drawing to win a cruise for two aboard Star Seeker’s inaugural cruise) as well as limited edition Seabags. The Seabags are a 40th anniversary series of bespoke bags on board for purchase, crafted from Windstar’s recycled sails.
Windstar’s social media channels are also sharing special historical moments and staff/crew recognition throughout the year.
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