Windstar Cruises is making its biggest-ever commitment to French Polynesia. Beginning March 2027, the newly refreshed sailing yacht Wind Star will return to Tahitian waters to join the all-suite Star Breeze, giving the line its most expansive South Pacific deployment yet. With two yachts operating full-time, more departure dates, and new itineraries, Windstar is positioning itself as the cruise line with the largest number of Tahiti sailings.
“Tahiti is part of our DNA, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring our sailing yacht back to these legendary waters,” said Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises. “By offering the largest number of departures in Tahiti, we give guests unparalleled flexibility—whether they crave the romance of sails or the comfort of an all-suite yacht.”
Tahiti Two Ways: Sails or Suites
Travelers will now be able to choose between two distinct styles of cruising:
Wind Star – A classic four-masted sailing yacht carrying just 148 guests. It will sail the 7-night Dreams of Tahiti itinerary year-round, with weekly Monday departures. Every voyage includes Raiatea, the sacred island considered the ancestral homeland of the Māori people—a destination not included on other standard 7-day itineraries.
Star Breeze – The 312-guest all-suite yacht will focus on longer, more remote itineraries to the Tuamotus, Marquesas, Fiji, and the Cook Islands. These can be combined into Star Collector Voyages of up to 21 days for deeper immersion in the South Pacific.
What’s New in 2027
Windstar is introducing a series of new features to enhance its Tahiti program:
The most Tahiti cruise departures of any line, with two ships sailing year-round.
“Early Goodbye” disembarkation: ships arrive in Papeete at 8 pm the evening before departure day, allowing guests to catch same-night flights to Los Angeles.
Simplified cruise + hotel packages, including options to stay in overwater bungalows with flexible flight arrangements.
AquaBanas floating lounges on the marina platform, offering shaded resort-style relaxation at sea.
Cultural and Immersive Experiences
Windstar emphasizes Polynesian culture and local connections. Guests can join exclusive experiences like the Polynesian Feast + Fire, a private evening on a motu with fire dancing, island cuisine, and live music under the stars. On board, Cultural Ambassadors host ukulele lessons, pareo-tying workshops, lei-making, and Tahitian language introductions, while local chefs share traditional dishes such as poisson cru with coconut milk.
Excursions are led by local guides, from vanilla plantation visits to pearl hunting in turquoise lagoons. The yachts’ marina platforms also give direct access to Bora Bora and Moorea for kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling right from the ship.
Booking Details
Travelers can take advantage of Windstar’s Early Booking Offer by reserving before October 31, 2025: up to $200 in onboard credit, plus the line’s All-In package with Wi-Fi, gratuities, and select beverages. Guests who choose the Pay Now, Save More option receive an additional 5% discount when paying in full.
With its dual-yacht presence, Windstar Cruises is cementing its reputation as the go-to line for Tahiti—offering both romance under sail and the comfort of suites, all wrapped in the laid-back luxury of the South Pacific.
