A Piece of Greece, a Slice of Sicily & the Corinth Canal

Discover Italy and Greece at their best, when towns and beaches are less crowded and the weather is just right for strolling historic ruins and admiring Greece’s 5,000-plus wildflowers. Feast your eyes on the smooth bone-white columns of Athens’ Parthenon, and the honeycombed spires of Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia. Inhale the heady aroma of wild rosemary and thyme mingled with fresh-baked guttiau bread in Cagliari, and the citrus tang of kumquat liqueur in Corfu. In Messina, watch as the bell tower clock’s bronze characters come to life, announcing noon with a lion’s fierce roar and a rooster’s loud crow. Spot bright pink flamingos stilt-walking the white salt flats in Trapani. Enjoy the sweet sound of Argostoli’s street musicians playing kantades on mandolins. And discover the tranquility of Delphi, where oracles channeled the prophecies of Apollo to kings and commoners. On this voyage you’ll visit ports reserved for small ships like Itea, dock closer to key attractions than larger ships can in Trapani and Barcelona, and cross the Corinth Canal, too narrow for most modern ships but just wide enough for your small ship.

Classic Italy & Dalmatian Coast

Explore the shores of Italy, Croatia and Montenegro, discovering the charm of Venice, the magnificence of Rome, and the vast beauty of the Dalmatian Coast. Wander down the ancient cobblestone streets of Taormina, travel up the sparking fjord to Kotor and bask in the allure of small ship cruising as your small ship anchors in the heart of Old Town Dubrovnik while larger ships only pass by. From remarkable small ports such as Rovinj to timeless cities like Venice and Rome, discover the Mediterranean’s most charming and historic destinations in one incomparable voyage.

Looking for more? Go in-land and combine the best of the land and sea with Cruise Tours that include this itinerary:
 

• UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN & DOWN THE DALMATIAN COAST CRUISE TOUR
• VATICAN & CROATIAN COASTLINES CRUISE TOUR
• LAKE COMO & ADRIATIC ROMANCE CRUISE TOUR

Icons of the Ancient World: Greece & Israel

Greek mythology, courageous rebellions against Rome, and the rediscovered wonders of Petra’s sandstone tombs, temples, and treasuries are a few of the hallmarks on this 8-day journey along the eastern Mediterranean harbors and coastlines of Greece, Cyprus and Israel. Savor sweet, almond flavors of amigdalota pastries in Mykonos, or catch a boat bound for the temples and amphitheater on Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Wander the shadowy recesses of the Minoan palace of Knossos on Crete, lair of the mythic Minotaur, and peruse ancient sacred relics at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. Follow Jesus’s footsteps through Gethsemane to the former garden and olive grove where he was arrested, and visit the cave of the Nativity in Bethlehem. Ride a cable car to the imposing heights of Masada Fortress. Float in the warm, mineral rich waters of the Dead Sea. Stroll among Petra’s pink, sandstone columns and caves in the glowing morning light.

Looking for more? Go in-land and combine the best of the land and sea with a Cruise Tour that includes this itinerary:

Holy Lands & Petra Cruise Tour
 

Sicilian Splendors

Encircle the Isle of Sicily and discover sparkling resorts favored by emperors, towns frozen in time by legendary volcanoes, Maltese palaces where knights and Grand Masters once gathered … this itinerary has them all. Watch the stunning Amalfi Coast pass by from the deck of your intimate small ship and raise a glass of limoncello to another blissful day in the warm Mediterranean sunshine.

Souks & Sherries: Iberia & Morocco

Discover unforgettable destinations overlooked by larger cruise lines during this 10-day Western Mediterranean cruise that visits historic landmarks and little-known spaces in Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. Wander warm sandy beaches near Portimao or board a small boat bound for caves and bronze- and umber-hued rock formations at the Alfanzina Grotto. Sip fino and oloroso sherries in a quiet cellar outside of Cádiz. Prepare traditional Moroccan flat bread for baking in a local oven during a Tangier cooking school lesson. Barter for handmade jewelry and handpainted ceramics in a crowded souk. Browse Pablo Picasso’s sculptures and obscure works and savor a Spanish sunset and evening tapas—best paired with spicy Grenacha and dark Tempranillo wines—during an overnight stay in Málaga. Unearth the ancient influences of Hispania Antiqua as you explore the Roman Theatre and Museum prior to observing the excavations and 2,000-year-old Punic relics at the Muralla Punica archaeological site.

NOTE: All departures on Star Pride through April 11, 2022 will be on her sister yacht, Star Legend

Spanish Symphony

Poised as if to kiss the continent of Africa, Andalusia hugs the southern coast of Spain and embraces cultural influences from both sides of the strait. This is the birthplace of Don Juan and Carmen, evening paseos by women in lace mantillas, cape-twirling matadors. In short, it is quintessential Spain. The beaches of the Costa del Sol are legendary. And behind lie equally magnificent mountain ranges sheltering picturesque “white villages.” Here you won’t find cookie-cutter castles, but amazing cultural amalgams like the Alhambra and Alcázar. On your elegant ship, you will cruise past larger ships right to the heart of old towns and to the steps of friendly bodegas.

Looking for more? Go in-land and combine the best of the land and sea with a Cruise Tour that includes this itinerary:

Portuguese Passages & Spanish Shorelines Cruise Tour

Yachtsman's Harbors of the Rivieras

Enjoy the world’s premier yachting playgrounds in a beautiful small ship that feels like your own private yacht. These beautiful ports string together like perfect pearls, each glowing with its own special beauty. Sparkling cities and charming villages. Secluded harbors and immaculate beaches. Discover the mystique and magic of the Rivieras that only an intimate small ship can show you.

Looking for more? Go in-land and combine the best of the land and sea with a Cruise Tour that includes this itinerary:

Vatican & Italian Riviera Cruise Tour

Adriatic Archipelagos and Greek Goddesses

Greek temples, rugged coastal mountain ranges, and rustic, tile-roofed villages dotting the eastern Adriatic shoreline define this exceptional 9-day cruise with an overnight port stay in Kotor, Montenegro. Toast the benefits of Croatian microclimates during a wine tasting near rocky vineyards outside Zadar. Sail, swim and snorkel at a pristine archipelago near Hvar, or rise early to pick fresh, organic vegetables for your family-style Croatian breakfast in the village of Hora, near there. Master Montenegro cuisine under the guidance of a decorated restaurant chef in Kotor. Admire the royal ambiance of Achillion, the Greek mansion of a former Austrian empress on Corfu. And enjoy Greek music performances and take your mark on the hallowed grounds of Olympia, the birthplace of Greek and global athletic competitions.

Aegean Sea Odyssey via the Corinth Canal

Greek temples and Turkish mosques punctuate the golden coastlines of these ancient rival nations throughout this 8-day coastal exploration of the Aegean Sea, scenic Dardanelles and the Sea of Maramara. Transit the narrow, time-saving Corinth Canal to Itea and the sacred ruins in the Sanctuary of Apollo, the former home of the ancient world’s most respected oracle. Sip tart and flavorful white wines made from local Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani grapes grown atop the windy ridges of Santorini. Hike between black lava rocks and white pumice stones to the smoldering crater on Nea Kameni. Shop for fresh fruit and vegetables in an open Turkish market with a local chef, then return to his Bodrum restaurant and cook up Turkish meals paired with regional wines and beer. Stroll in the shade of former terrace houses and columned buildings in ancient Ephesus prior to a late-night stay in the markets and cafes of Kusadasi, Turkey.
 

Black Sea Sights & Turkish Delights

Follow Jason and the Argonauts through the Black Sea on their quest for the Golden Fleece and find a magical world where lines blur between fact and fantasy. Listen as your onboard narrator shares tales of the Trojan Horse and the Battle of Gallipoli as you navigate the narrow Dardanelles between ancient Troy and the famous World War I battlefield. Discover Istanbul, the romantic city once known as Constantinople, with its radiant Blue Mosque and still-bustling Silk Road caravanserai dating to the 17th century. Explore ancient towns brimming with medieval churches, charming Ottoman villages where the gold of the realm is saffron, and cuisines as delicious as they are unfamiliar. In fact, the unexpected is your constant companion on this voyage to all 6 countries that border the Black Sea. Follow wine to its original source in Georgia, far from the vineyards of France and Italy. Spend a long day in Odessa, a city that appears more European than Soviet with its Greek Street, French Boulevard and Italian Boulevard. Take in the novelty architecture of Batumi from the Acropolis to an upside-down White House. And rearrange your reality in Bulgaria, where shaking your head from side to side means "yes," and nodding your head up and down means "no." Although you may not find a golden fleece on this journey, each port you visit offers diverse and wonderful rewards.

Cappadocia & Aegean Rhapsody Cruise Tour via the Corinth Canal

Hand painted Iznik tiles in deep lapis lazuli, turquoise, emerald, and coral. Fairy chimneys of taupe and burnt umber. The white, charcoal, and Aegean blue palette of Santorini. On this journey through Turkey and Greece you may expand on your list of favorite new places, and even add new favorite colors, aromas, and flavors. Istanbul is your portal to this sensory world, with its Ottoman mosques, sultans’ palaces, Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. Cappadocia’s weird landscape of rock pillars and subterranean homes is next, followed by a string of pearls. Sparkling Aegean isles, the marble ruins of Ephesus, an ancient oracle, a Trojan horse. And while larger ships must go around, you cut straight through the narrow Corinth Canal to Athens, one of the world’s oldest cities, and some say one of the finest.
 

Comprehensive Spain

Spain is sometimes referred to as “the Spains,” and for good reason. Each of its 17 autonomous regions is distinct – as you’ll discover as you cruise the entire Spanish Coast from one side of the Iberian Peninsula to the other. Cuisines, customs, even languages differ as you travel French-influenced Catalonia, Moorish Andalusia, Portuguese- and Celtic-inspired Galicia, and the indigenous Basque Country. All the more reason to appreciate long days in port and overnight stays. Compare the architectural extremes of Barcelona’s multi-spired Sagrada Familia with the graceful arches of Seville’s Alcazár Palace, the ship-inspired glass balconies of El Ferrol with Bilbao’s undulating titanium Guggenheim. Taste fresh oysters in the seafood paradise of Vigo, wafer-thin slivers of melt-in-your-mouth air-cured ham (jamon) in Málaga, and anything on the menu at San Sebastian’s many Michelin-starred restaurants. Treat your palate to a palette of fine wines from Galicia’s zesty whites to the Basque Country’s full-bodied Tempranillo to Andalusia’s famous sherries to Catalonia’s sparkling Cava … and a grand finale of French wines in Bordeaux. See the real Spain in towns like Vigo and Andalusia’s White Villages. Make the most of your time as Star Legend docks in the center of center of Old Towns while larger ships must dock at ports further away.

Delphi & Meteora: Grecian Antiquities Cruise Tour

Venture to the epicenters of ancient Western Civilization during this pairing of guided Delphi and Meteroa tours and an extensive Greek Isles cruise. Explore the high halls of medieval Meteora monasteries perched on clifftops. Delve into tales of Titans, Olympians and early deities as you step between limestone blocks hewn by hand, etched by turmoil and strewn among the angular shadows of the Parthenon’s marble pillars. Raise your voice and test perfect acoustics in classical amphitheaters near the storied Temple of Delphi and the Epidaurus Theatre. Pull up a bar stool at a bustling estiatorio and sample grilled pita bread paired with a creamy spread of tangy taramasalata--a pureed blend of potato, lemon juice and briny local fish roe. Wander among the white-walled shops of Santorini and the stirring cloth sails of village windmills on Mykonos. Slip between broken walls in Ephesus, a former trading port along the picturesque Turkish Coast, plus appreciate the special dinner at Ephesus during our Destination Discovery Event and the small ship delightful ports of Ermoupoli, Monemvasia and Agios Nikolaos.

Delphi & Meteora: Grecian Treasures Cruise Tour

Delve into the ancient wonders of early Western Civilization on this 10-day journey featuring Meteora and Delphi and delve into the islands of Greece. Stroll the monument-lined Sacred Way toward the Grand Temple of Apollo in Delphi. Savor a moonlit Turkish dinner and romantic concert among the broken columns and weathered walls of Ephesus in Turkey during Windstar’s complimentary Destination Discovery Event. Imagine the sense of adventure among Medieval Turkish raiders as you stare skyward at distant monasteries topping foreboding cliffs and natural sandstone pillars throughout Meteora Valley. Sip tangy, bright citrus flavors of local Assyrtiko wine paired with freshly caught calamari while relaxing on a whitewashed patio high above Santorini’s steep volcanic slopes. Relax by the crystal clear waters of Acropolis, Mykonos and Santorini beaches. Gaze across the Baroque-styled parapets of Palamidi Castle at Nafplio’s red-tiled roofs and the azure Argolic Gulf. Scale the marble steps leading to the Acropolis high above the city of Athens and lose yourself amid the iconic Parthenon’s limestone blocks and marble columns.

Enchanting Greece & the Amalfi Coast

Idyllic islands, charming cobbled villages, spectacular scenery, intriguing history. Capture the heart of the Mediterranean in a single cruise voyage. Each small harbor is especially suited for small cruise ship exploration. Enjoy the best of the region — from the ancient ruins of Sparta and Mystras to the pure indulgence of the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Holy Lands & Petra Cruise Tour

Embark on a far-ranging voyage to Greek temples, Holy Land shrines and Petra’s pink sandstone facades during this exceptional 11-day cruise and tour to Jordan, Israel, and Greece. Stand atop Jordan’s Mount Nebo summit and take in Promised Land views from Moses’ perspective. Walk among tombs, treasuries and temples carved into Petra’s pink sandstone canyon walls. Venture into the cavernous silence of the Church of the Annunciation and the Church of St. Joseph in Nazareth, the childhood home of Jesus. Stroll  the otherworldly landscape of Wadi Rum and through Jerusalem’s Old City to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and Stations of the Cross. Stand in the ghostly ruins of ancient Kourion and atop the walls of a nearby crusader fortress above Cypriot citrus groves. Sip pilsner paired with seared calamari and honeyed mantinades dough in a Rhodes neighborhood café. Embrace sea breezes in the shade of Mykonos windmills and venture inland to sample tart and tasty local Greek wines.

Iberian Interludes & Moroccan Moments

Robust aged Portuguese port wines, intricate handcrafted Moroccan ceramics, and ancient Roman art and architecture enchant and enthrall throughout this immersive 7-day cruise with stops in Portugal, Morocco and Spain. Tour a Portuguese winery, barrel sample wines, then blend and bottle your unique vintage with insights from veteran winemakers. Sip rich, amber-hued North African teas garnished with mint sprigs as you experience the prattle, intense spice aromas and colorful vendor displays at Djemaa El Fna Square, the heart of Marrakesh’s thriving outdoor marketplace. Graze on Andalusian cheeses, olive oils and local produce with a Sevillian chef prior to cooking up an authentic Spanish lunch outside Cádiz during your overnight. Board a cable car bound for Gibraltar’s summit and explore British fortifications overlooking the bustling strait joining the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Admire ancient Roman mosaics, intact arches and broken columns in the Ruins of Lixus outside Tangier on Morocco’s Atlantic coast.

Iberian Serenade

Delve into the delectable details throughout Spain on the way to Portugal during this 5-day cruise along storied ports and scenic coastlines. Swim and sunbathe amid the rich and reclusive on a remote Balearic beach near Palma de Mallorca. Explore one of the few remains of Carthaginian civilization at Cartagena’s 3^rd century B.C. archaeological site, Muralla Punica. Stay out late in Malaga among Museo Picasso Málaga masterpieces and fried chili tapas paired with bracing, Albariño white wines and fruity Tempranillo reds. This indulgent Iberian odyssey concludes among Lisbon’s terracotta-tiled architecture overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Ride a century-old funicular into the hills high above the city, spend an afternoon sipping Ports, or seek out one-of-a-kind ceramic souvenirs and tasty local fare in charming shops and boutiques tucked into the shadows of Lisbon’s memorable medieval cathedrals and weathered city walls.

Island Gems of Spain & Portugal

Embark on a voyage that isn’t about following others to famous landmarks it’s about finding your own. Watch a Gomeran cup his hands and whistle a secret language only other Gomerans know. Hike the amazing aqueducts on Madeira. Taste wrinkly potatoes in Tenerife and fresh sardines in Portimao. Feel the breeze from the Sahara as you lie on a Canary Island beach, and shop the Kasbah for a brass lamp so you can thank the genie who brought you here.

NOTE: All departures on Star Pride through April 11, 2022 will be on her sister yacht, Star Legend

Istanbul Icons & Aegean Artifacts via the Corinth Canal Cruise Tour

With four days to explore glorious Istanbul and another eight to discover what lies beyond the Golden Horn, you don’t need an oracle to tell you this is one auspicious voyage. Everywhere you look in Istanbul you’ll find some fascinating remnant of days gone by – places where chariots raced, sultans ruled, and architects’ greatest aspirations were realized. After you’ve oohed and aahed over the world-renowned mosques, palaces, and bazaars, board your yacht to see more jewels of the Aegean. Islands glowing with whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches; origin stories of gods, oracles, and Atlantis; a canal so narrow you’ll only share it with small mail boats, private yachts, and paddleboarders. Plus, enjoy a complimentary Destination Discovery Event – dinner and a concert in the moonlight in ancient Ephesus.

What’s Included

•Three nights’ accommodation at Pera Palace Hotel in a Deluxe Golden Horn Room
Breakfast at the hotel, lunch at Hamdi Restaurant
•All transfers to and from the included sites
•Two full days and one half day sightseeing in a luxury air conditioned vehicle with a professional driver and English speaking tour guide.
•2-hour Bosphorus cruise on a private motor boat
•Entrance fees to Byzantine Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, the Harem Section, Underground Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, Dolmabahce Palace, Ayasofya, and Rustem Pasa Mosque
•8-day cruise between Athens and Istanbul
 
Please note:  Bring your hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for people with mobility issues. Order of sites visited may vary based on availability and dates.
 

Lake Como & Adriatic Romance Cruise Tour

Indulge in rustic Italian cuisine, Roman relics and Baroque masterworks on a 11-day odyssey that combines a picturesque overland exploration of Lake Como and Venice with an extensive cruise through the Adriatic and along Italy’s west coast. Delve into the depths of delectable Northeast Italian wine vintages and savor Amarone’s cherry and cinnamon nuances in a cool, underground Valpolicella winery. Overnight provides time to float past Venice’s romantic arched bridges and ancient alleyways on a gondola ride. Dip a kayak blade in the clear waters near old harbor walls outside Dubrovnik. Sample homemade cheeses and sausages in a family-run olive grove near Kotor. Wander between restored mosaics, broken columns and cracked pottery amid Pompeii’s storied ruins. Dine on authentic, handmade pizza while gentle coastal breezes waft through Sorrento’s aromatic citrus trees.

Mediterranean Island Mosaic

Hidden harbors. Legendary landmarks. Everything that makes the Mediterranean magical. This cruise voyage has it all. The colorful kaleidoscopes of Rome and Barcelona invite you to celebrate their high-spirited energy, while the seductive scent of oranges and olives that perfumes the enchanting islands of Elba, Corsica, Mallorca and Menorca entices you to explore their seductive secrets. From the wild green mountains of Mallorca to the striking white pebble beaches of Portoferraio – let us delight your senses and ignite your imagination.

Portuguese Passages & Spanish Shorelines Cruise Tour

Combine a culturally immersive inland journey throughout Portugal with a scenic and insightful tracing of Spain’s iconic coastlines during this remarkable 12-day combination cruise and land tour. Inhale intermingled aromas of seafood and spicy bean soup on Porto’s glowing twilight streets as melancholic fado lyrics and guitarra strings reverberate across stone walls from a more modest skyline. Light a white candle amid prayerful pilgrims in the silence of Fátima’s most sacred sites. Peer into the spiraling, moss-lined columns of the Initiation Well near the misty and verdant Sintra Forest. Bask in the Douro Valley’s unique sunlit glow as you stand among the rocky contours of steep terraced vineyards and gnarled gray trunks of Tinta Cão vines. Master the art of tapas cooking under the direction of an Andalusian chef near Málaga. Sip sherries and wander among old barrels in Cadiz wine cellars. Kayak between scenic caletas, or quays, in Mallorca’s clear coastal waters.

Rome & Grand Prix of Monaco

Surrounded by glitterati on the glistening Wind Surf you fit right in; your insider’s experience at Monaco’s legendary Grand Prix, the jewel in the crown of this exceptional cruise. Visit some of the unique small ports — Portoferraio, Portofino and Portovenere and iconic cities like Rome and Monte Carlo — strolling famous promenades, shopping elite boutiques, and taking in world-renowned beaches. Then during your overnight in Monte Carlo, enjoy exclusive access to special Windstar private Grand Prix events and two days of world-class Formula One time trials and racing. It’s the ultimate expression of Windstar’s style, and open to only a very limited number of guests.
 

Star Collector: Adriatic & Aegean Sea Adventures

Romantic serenades on Venetian canals, bright Croatian wines and ancient Greek columns are hallmarks throughout this exceptional 19-day cruise that visits Italy, Turkey, Greece, and the Eastern Aegean coastline. Wander in silence between the centuries-old white pillars of the Romanesque Cathedral of St. Anastasia, then sip bittersweet Croatian liqueur distilled from Zadar cherries and honey. Sail to the picturesque archipelago of the Pekleni Islands and swim and snorkel near Hvar. Skim the waves to the shimmering sunlit splendors inside the Blue Cave near Kotor, then sip Montenegro wines and enjoy local cuisine and evening entertainment during an overnight port stay. Dance sirtaki steps arm in arm and sample cool Tzatziki paired with spicy Greek meatballs in the small port of Katakolon, near Olympia—hallowed grounds of early Greek athletic competitions. Admire weathered columns, intact building facades and the terrace houses of Ephesus, a former thriving port city near Kusadasi, Turkey.

Star Collector: Aegean & Bosporus Escapades

Sail along the Mediterranean’s sunniest coastlines and past Southern Europe’s most iconic shores as you explore small ancient ports and large cosmopolitan cities throughout Italy, Greece, and Turkey on this 16-day cruise. Snack on local Sardinian seafood as you take in the diverse sights, bustling sounds, and unique aromas throughout San Benedetto’s old Cagliari Fish Market, Italy’s largest covered fish market. Wander Erice’s cobbled medieval lanes prior to sitting down with a Sicilian chef for lessons on how to prepare an authentic, 3-dish meal sourced from regional ingredients. Uncover the mysteries of the oracle Pythia at the Sanctuary of Apollo atop the ruins of Delphi complex near Itea, then transit the narrow Corinth Canal to explore the Parthenon atop the Acropolis in Athens. Dine beneath the stars and the weathered columns of Ephesus during an evening 5-course dinner paired with classical music from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra.   Few places offer such a rich combination of history and scenic beauty as you will find in Turkey.

Star Collector: Ancient to Avant-Garde Mediterranean

A perfect blend of antiquity and artistry, this 14-day cruise sails from the ancient ruins of Athens and makes a dozen port stops in Greece, Italy and France before disembarking among the contemporary architecture and gleaming, cosmopolitan wonders of Barcelona, Spain. Stroll the narrow streets inside the concealed medieval walls of Monemvasia, Greece and take an exhilarating tour of Corsica’s narrow winding coastal roads outside Calvi, France. From the Greek and Roman funerary steles - ancient marble reliefs depicting venerable people engaged in everyday life - to the vibrant and radiant impressionist paintings and dizzying mosaics of Antoni Gaudí’s Barcelona architecture, this is an ideal journey for passionate historians, art lovers and all seeking unforgettable cultural immersion.

Star Collector: Atlantic Interludes & Iberian Indulgences

An Atlantic crossing offers abundant opportunities for catching up on reading, spa treatments and indulging in important passions that you keep putting off, like organizing to-do lists or outlining that manuscript you always plan to complete. You’ll also be fully rested and ready to explore Lisbon’s prominent landmarks like the alabaster-like Belém Tower, the elaborate grounds of the Jerónimos Monastery or the quiet corners of a wine bar serving fruity Vinho Verde or countless golden, nutty-nuanced port wines. Take an Andalusian-style side trip to Seville and discover often-overlooked Moorish influences in the medieval architecture throughout the 2,200-year-old city. Soar to the top of The Rock of Gibraltar and gaze down on one of the busiest and most strategic sea. Even if it’s cloudy, you’ll still be captivated by the hundreds of Barbary macaques, the last surviving wild monkey population in Europe. Study Cubist co-founder Pablo Picasso’s sculptures, sketches, engravings and paintings in detail near his birthplace in Málaga. Stroll the weathered 14^th century flagstones and admire the circular, Gothic-themed architecture of Bellver Castle near Palma de Mallorca. This restful adventure concludes across the historic Balearic Sea in Barcelona, where you can stay up late to dance among the vibrant night life or sit down for amazing toasty tapas and seafood paellas among the countless cafés and airy sidewalk bars.

Star Collector: Atlantic Sunsets & Mediterranean Sunrises

Combine an Atlantic coastal exploration of France and Spain with a Mediterranean transit during this excursion-rich, 20-day adventure. Taste wines and tour the cellar of Château Ambe Tour Pourret prior to cooking up French regional dishes during a decadent overnight stay in Bordeaux. Relax and indulge in wraps and seawater hydro massage baths at a romantic Belle Époque resort in San Sebastian. Savor amber-hued Basque beers, artisan cheeses and local treats at Bilbao’s oldest nougat shops during a cultural and culinary tour. Kayak through the rural Spanish countryside during a float down the Minho River outside Vigo. Visit a Sicilian winery on the outskirts of Trapani and sample Marsala wines paired with an Italian lunch. Drift through sunlit splendors inside Drogarti Cave, then listen as Greek music reverberates across the stone caverns of Kephalonia. Walk the weathered stones where the Oracle of Delphi paced and advised inside the Temple of Apollo.

Star Collector: Black Sea Beauty & Eastern Mediterranean Icons via the Corinth Canal

Combine a Black Sea circumnavigation with an extended coastal exploration of Greece and Turkey during this exceptional 17-day cruise. An overnight Istanbul port stay and time-saving passage through the narrow Corinth Canal extend your excursion opportunities. Sample Bulgarian banista—a cheese and egg pastry—after a cooking demonstration and Nessebar folklore performance. Sip Sochi tea and walk the halls of Stalin’s secret dacha, a preserved vacation refuge resplendent in 1940s Soviet Era nomenklatura furnishings. Contrast Russian and Persian influences during a traditional Georgian house tour or savor famed Khareba wines pressed from rare Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane and Krakhuna grapes. Browse unique wares in the smoky clamor of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, a maze of shops and passages decorated with carpets, hammered copper dishes and countless sacks of aromatic spices. Take in a complimentary evening concert performance and dinner near the Celsus Library columns in Ephesus.
 

Star Collector: Classic Crossing to Spain & More

Ideal for anyone seeking equal portions of relaxing time at sea and port visits, this transatlantic crossing features a combination of leisurely, uninterrupted sea crossing time balanced with the best ports in the Western Mediterranean. Spend time crossing the Atlantic and enjoying the romance of sailing as you make your way to your ultimate destination. Sip port wines in Lisbon, Portugal, browse wares in the bustling Grand Souk in Tangier, Morocco, and wander the medieval cobbled streets of Tarragona, Spain.

Star Collector: Cruising on the Rivieras

Indulge in unhurried pleasures among steep coastal cliffs, tiny vineyards and romantic villages throughout the Rivieras and Western Italy during this 17-day, autumn cruise. During the fall winemakers are racking fresh wine into barrels, and new olive oils are sampled for the first time. Stroll uncrowded avenues and discover fresh, distinctly nutty porcini mushrooms served fresh on pastas and sautéed into tapas at sidewalk cafés, browse open markets and inhale the fall aromas from ripe apples, plump grapes and early season citrus. Test your luck in a Monte Carlo casino, hike the desolate Crateri Silvestri on the southeast slope of Sicily’s Mount Etna, and learn about Malta’s noble heritage inside the precipitous medieval walls of 4,000-year-old Mdina — The Silent City.

Star Collector: Culinary Capitals of Spain & France

Sip and savor delicious European cuisine paired with famous destinations and little-known fishing villages during this deliciously delightful, 23-day exploration of Spain, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Browse more than 155 works spanning 83 years, including ceramics created by Picasso at the Fundación Museo Picasso de Málaga. Ride in a scenic gondola to Gibraltar’s summit and enjoy panoramic strait views in the company of resident Barbary apes. Dip a paddle blade in the Minho River during a guided kayak tour near Vigo, Spain. Sail up the river to overnight in Seville where many varieties of tapas beckon. Tour globally renowned wineries and indulge in steak au poivre paired with spectacular Cabernet Sauvignon dominant red wine blends from Bordeaux’s famed left bank during an extended 2-night Bordeaux stay. Walk amid the ruins of German concrete fortifications above the beaches of Normandy near Caen. Overnight in St-Malo ensuring time to visit UNESCO site Mont St Michelle. Admire the French countryside during a cruise up the Seine River, culminating in a romantic overnight stay near Paris and the well-known wine and food delicacies.

Star Collector: Culture & Charms of Italy & Croatia

Roam between the broken monoliths and columns in the Roman Forum, Western Civilization’s former epicenter. Gaze across Catania’s umber-hued, terracotta-tiled skyline to the steaming summit of Mount Etna as you sample authentic Sicilian dishes like densely textured handmade pasta topped with aromatic variations like sundried tomatoes, golden-brown dried grapes, fresh basil and minced garlic. This exquisite cruise around Italy’s Apennine Peninsula is abundant in opportunities to explore the lesser-known landmarks and narrow ancient streets of sleepy villages throughout the central Mediterranean. Sip citrus-sweet limoncello from frosty glasses while locals haggle over the proximities of their bocce balls on nearby gravel courts. Land at the tiny port of Lipari in the Aeolian Islands north of Sicily, and explore a Norman Castle built in medieval times, or master the art of Sicilian-style pizzas as you combine local ingredients into your own culinary creation. Step inside the cool and shady Romanesque splendor of Kotor Cathedral in Montenegro, or venture to the nearby pedestrian-only village of Perast and sample sweets recreated from Baroque-era recipes. Capture the Old World ambiance of Split’s Diocletian Palace in the right light during a hands-on photo tour with an award-winning international photojournalist. Your delightful journey concludes in Venice among romantic gondolas and exquisite Italian architecture, where you can reflect on your cruise memories as you float canals or search for last-minute souvenirs small, family-owned artisan shops featuring handcrafted glassware and ornamental metalwork.

Star Collector: Enchantment of the Western Med

Experience the best Western Mediterranean ports in detail during this 15-day cruise through Monaco, France, Spain, Gibraltar, and Portugal. Stroll among opulent casinos, high-end boutiques, and historic Formula One landmarks in Monte Carlo. Sip wormwood-based absinthe in the French village of Antibes outside of Cannes. Or meander among the dusky walls and long shadows in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, taking in the aromas, sights and sounds of the Catalonian heart of Spain.

Star Collector: Grand European Bucket List Adventure

Maybe you didn’t get quite enough bottles of wine to bring back after your honeymoon. Maybe you’ve seen just enough of Europe’s various regions to hunger for more. Maybe you’re simply ready to get out of town and aren’t in any hurry to come home. Whatever your motivation, this epic European odyssey will satisfy your cravings and show you more shades of Europe than you can imagine. Wander ancient Greek ruins, D-Day beaches, medieval Hanse towns and the Hermitage. Compare the beauty of a Norwegian fjord at dawn with an Aegean sunset, the colors of a Netherlands flower market with a Turkish bazaar, the taste of a fine paella with authentic Sicilian pizza. And perfectly spaced to give you time to absorb it all are relaxing days at sea, small ship-only exclusives like the Kiel and Corinth Canals, and enticing beach resorts.

Star Collector: Greek Grandeur & Roman Holiday

Civilizations rise and fall, and you’re a witness to it all on this voyage from Athens to Rome. More than a dozen[KSO1]  UNESCO sites transcribe cool stone into stories of days gone by. Walk the ruins of ancient Epidaurus where ill people once slept so the gods could tell them how to regain their health. In Rhodes, explore the Temple of Athena in Lindos, gnarled olive trees, and their branches of peace, supposedly created by the goddess herself. And find surprising discoveries even among well-known ruins, like the nearly hidden Peribleptos monastery in Mystras, built into the rock and seeming to emerge from it, its turret-shaped façade holding a treasure trove of 14^th-century frescoes. When you’re not delving into the past, get closer to local culture in smaller and less-visited harbors like Patmos, Ermoupoli, Monemvasia, Gythion and colorful Ponza. Revel in the beauty of Santorini, Mykonos, and Sorrento. Marvel at the emotional magnetism of Athens’ Acropolis and the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel. And dine in the moonlight in front of the Celsus Library in ancient Ephesus—a complimentary Windstar Destination Discovery Event designed exclusively for you.

Star Collector: Iberia & Europe’s Coastal Splendors via the Kiel Canal

Venture from rolling Iberian coastal hills to lush European lowlands during this cruise with stops in Europe’s Atlantic fishing villages and 8 overnights in charming cities. Explore vibrant colors and imagery at the Picasso Museum prior to dining on tapas and rich Spanish wines in Málaga. Catch the vibrant energy and passion of a captivating Flamenco dance paired with savory Iberian pork and Moorish-inspired marinades with an overnight in Seville. Cook up regional French dishes and sip delicious red wines during a 2-night port stay in Bordeaux. Cruise up the Seine River and indulge in Parisian art, fashion, and contemporary cuisine throughout an overnight stay in Rouen. Indulge in sweet Belgian waffles and chocolates in Zeebrugge. Run your fingers along the broken edges of the Berlin Wall and browse classic and contemporary art on the renovated Museum Island near the German capital’s historic heart.
 

Star Collector: Icons of Iberia

Explore the iconic Iberian Peninsula in detail prior to sailing up Europe’s Atlantic coastline during this far-ranging 22-day cruise. Venture into the rustic Andalusian countryside, sampling regional goat and sheep cheeses, aged hams, homegrown olives, and sherry wines during an overnight port stay in Cádiz. Relax amid elegant fountains and arabesque architecture surrounding Granada’s Moorish palace of the Alhambra near Málaga. Watch skilled craftsmen apply the finishing touches to Antoni Gaudi’s ornate and elaborate Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Dine on colorful Catalan seafood paella paired with chilled, fruity Sangrias. Stroll among intricate Roman mosaics and painstakingly restored antiquities in the stately halls of Lebrija Palace in Seville. Dip a kayak blade in the Minho River near Vigo’s verdant Spanish vineyards. Sip flights of rich red wines during an overnight stay in Bordeaux, or delve into Paleolithic relics found in a cavernous French refuge inhabited by humans for 60,000 years.

Star Collector: Italian Trio

Discover the culture, history and cuisine on both sides of the Italian peninsula during this 15-day cruise of the Adriatic, Ionian, Ligurian and Tyrrhenian seas. This back-to-back cruise is ideal for optimizing shore excursion time in Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Monaco, France, and Spain. Stroll through Roman ruins in Rovinj, Croatia, sample olives and smoked hams at a centuries-old family farm in Montenegro, or savor an unforgettably romantic evening dinner at Château Eza in Èze 1,400 feet above the beaches of the French Riviera.

Star Collector: Mediterranean Odyssey

Traverse the Mediterranean Sea while exploring lesser-known Italian small ports, Greek ruins and Holy Land shrines during this exceptional 16-day cruise with overnight stays in Rhodes and Haifa. Browse the small, uncrowded shops or nibble on briny local sheep cheese paired with tart, Malvasia white wine amid the unhurried coastal elegance of Cagliari, a less touristy Sardinian port rich in modern art and authenticity. Cook up Sicilian seafood with a chef in the fishing port of Trapani, Sicily. Examine recently recovered Middle Age frescos in the Greek Monastery of St. Andrew, then sip rare Rombola wines in Kephalonia. A small ship exclusive transit of the lesser-traveled Corinth Canal provides more time to explore the Temple of Delphi near Itea and the famed Acropolis high above Athens. Reflect upon Jerusalem’s historic and holy sites and savor optional inland excursions to Masada, the Dead Sea and the sandstone temples of Petra in Jordan.

Star Collector: Memoirs of France & Iberia

Visit small ports and iconic coastal destinations throughout Spain, Gibraltar, Morocco and Portugal before venturing up the Atlantic Coast to France and Ireland during this 20-day cruise of the western Mediterranean and Europe’s west coast. Ride horseback into the Mijas Mountains above Málaga, or settle back with generous pours of rich red Spanish wine during an overnight port stay. Peer into Gibraltar’s formidable Great Siege Tunnels. Join a Sevillian chef in an open market prior to cooking up Spanish cuisine during an overnight in Cádiz. Explore the spacious interior of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the third largest mosque in the world. Sample and blend your own hearty Portuguese wine in Quinta dos Vales outside of Portimao. Dine on bœuf bourguignon or cassoulet paired with left- and right-bank wines during a delicious overnight Bordeaux stay. Learn to sail on Dublin Bay, gliding past famous Irish landmarks and medieval fortifications.1985

Star Collector: Pilgrimage to the Holy Land & Beyond: Israel, Greece & Turkey

Plunge into the refreshing minerality of the Dead Sea. Journey inland to the lost city of Petra. Sunbathe beneath the iconic white windmills in Mykonos. Memorable excursions and authentic experiences abound throughout this 16-day cruise to Israel, Greece and Turkey via time-saving Corinth Canal. Walk beside Masada’s scarred walls in Israel. Admire vintage Cypriot architecture and centuries-old frescos near Nicosia’s modern checkpoints and old Venetian fortifications. Stir up tart tzatziki alongside sizzling meatballs during a Greek taverna cooking demonstration, then stay out late in Rhode’s Jewish Quarter cafés and Turkish District restaurants. Stand atop the Acropolis above the Athenian skyline, in the cool shadows of the storied Parthenon. Chat with locals and discover traditional Greek life over coffee in the small village of Arolithos near Crete’s Heraklion. Uncover the influence of seers on ancient nations as you explore the columns and blocks in Delphi. Lean back and relax in the timeless marble decor of a Bodrum Turkish bath.
 

Star Collector: Racing for the Grand Prix Along the Rivieras

Few Mediterranean cruises offer the unique combination of romance and racing like this Star Collector adventure from the Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo to the premier yachting playgrounds. Along the way you’ll explore the art, architecture, and cultural customs and cuisines throughout Italy, Monaco, Spain and France. Taste local wines paired with homemade cheese along the Riviera coastline. Discover secluded harbors and immaculate beaches, the mystique and magic of the Rivieras best seen by small ship. Witness Saturday qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix prior to an exclusive tour of the storied pits. After evening festivities and an overnight stay in Monte Carlo, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the track on race day, along with a gift package that includes ear plugs, high-definition binoculars and seat cushion

Star Collector: Riviera Rhapsody

Oohs and ahhs over the sublime scenery alternate with oohs and ahhs over magnificent manmade creations on this voyage along the Dalmatian Coast, Ligurian Riviera, Côte d’Azur, and Costa del Sol. This is a stretch where Blue Flag beaches have to jostle for elbow space and castles, palaces and cathedrals take every form known to man – and then some. This is where the imaginations of Cezanne, Monet, Matisse, Picasso, Dali, and Gaudí were ignited. Here is where great romances blossomed: Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor in Portofino, Princess Grace and Prince Rainier in Monte Carlo, Romeo and Juliet near Venice. Sail through waters where the legendary sirens are said to live, watch fearless castellers climb human pyramids, play a game of picign with gregarious Croatians. Our small ships take you to smaller and less-visited ports like Sanary-sur-Mer and Portoferraio, and get you closer to town than the big ships can get in places like Dubrovnik, Venice, Barcelona, and Málaga. What you do with the extra time is entirely up to you.

Star Collector: Romance of the West Med

Sip red wines and savor tapas, pastas, rich cheeses and aged hams throughout Portugal, Morocco, Spain, France and Italy. You’ll spend 15 memorable days exploring tiny rustic villages, historic fortified ports and contemporary architecture in Tangier, Ibiza, Barcelona, Palma, Mahon, Portoferraio, Rome and more. Kayak along the stunning coastline of Mallorca and bike from Portoferraio to Enfola, Elba in Italy.

Star Collector: Sicilian Circumnavigation & Monaco Grand Prix

Indulge in the diverse Old World flavors of the Italian coastline and Sicily prior to partaking in the modern-day pageantry of Monaco’s Formula 1 racing during this delightfully decadent 17-day exploration of Italy and France. Take flight on a helicopter tour above smoldering Mount Etna. Sample uniquely textured dark chocolate bars handcrafted in Modica, a sweet treat blended with nuts, peppers, and vanilla that goes perfectly with smoky espresso. Study skilled Lipari chefs crafting Sicilian pizzas, then roll your own fresh dough for a memorable lunch paired with local red wines and sweet Aeolian cookies. Bicycle past Portoferraio’s weathered walls and rustic stone streets to Enfola’s rural roadways before stopping for delicious refreshments and a kayak tour of the Elba’s northern coastline. Wander between stacked tires and state-of-the-art race computing technology as you tour Monaco’s F1 Grand Prix pits on qualifying day, then party through the night prior to watching the complete race the following afternoon!

Star Collector: Stories of Italy, Croatia & Greece

Trace the most prosperous ancient world sea routes between Rome and Athens during this 17-day exploration of Italy, Croatia, Montenegro and Greece. Stroll beneath shady olive trees and between rustling vineyard rows prior to sampling tart and potent limoncello inside a rustic farmhouse above Sorrento. Glide across shimmering electric-blue reflections inside the famed Blue Grotto sea cave near Giardini Naxos. Serve up an authentic 3-course Montenegro meal under the guidance of a Kotor chef, then explore venerable Old Town towers and walls in twilight shadows during an overnight stay. Sip handcrafted Croatian wines in a vineyard outside Dubrovnik or soar skyward on a cable car ride to coastal views high above Old Town’s crenelated medieval walls. Ride above waves on a swift hydrofoil bound from Corfu, Greece to Sarande, Albania and delve into Greco-Roman artifacts and Butrint ruins. Watch well-worn Monemvasia watermills grind grain prior to kneading your fresh flour and baking it into hearty, Greek-style bread.

Treasures of Southern Spain & Morocco

Dazzle your senses with Spanish treasure — golden Costa del Sol beaches, Picasso’s genius in Málaga, the Roman ruins of Cartagena and Tarragona. Sit at a café in Tangier’s medina sipping mint tea and watching old men play backgammon. Nestle up to the other exclusive yachts in Ibiza’s harbor with some 80 blissful beaches calling your name. Celebrate a dream come true.
 

Under the Tuscan Sun & Down the Dalmatian Coast Cruise Tour

From the grandeur of ancient Rome to the Renaissance splendors of the Western Civilization’s greatest artists, few countries have influenced the modern world like Italy. This 11-day cruise tour visits both sides of the Italian peninsula with stops in romantic Venice, small ports along the scenic Dalmatian coast, and a delicious and captivating land tour of both Tuscany and Rome. Float along Venetian canals while listening to singing gondoliers. Soar to expansive Adriatic views as a tram sweeps you high above Dubrovnik’s ancient walls and rustic old town charms. Slurp rich Spaghetti alle Vongole, blended with fresh clams, rich shrimp or fried calamari at a table overlooking the Sorrento seashore. Walk around the towering white marble statue of Michelangelo’s David, a Renaissance masterpiece embraced by Florentines as a symbol in defense of civil liberties. Sniff and sip the red, black and sour cherry aromas and flavors characteristic of the best Chianti wines. Wander Roman piazzas, ancient gathering spaces for families and neighbors for over 2,000 years.

Vatican & Croatian Coastlines Cruise Tour

Delve into architectural and epicurean wonders on both sides of the Italian peninsula during this 10-day adventure that combines an Adriatic and Dalmatian Coast cruise with a Vatican tour, Colosseum visit, and foodie market tour in Rome. Listen to the Venetian clock tower bells of Torre dell’Orologio strike the hour as hundreds of pigeons scatter about St. Mark’s Square. Sip crisp and dry Verdicchio paired with octopus salad or garlic-flavored black risotto in delicious Dubrovnik. Drift past the blue domes of Our Lady of the Rocks, a sanctuary for Kotor’s local fishermen for nearly 2,000 years. Sample succulent baked cardoon stalks harvested from Sicilian thistles and dusted with melted aged Parmesan cheese near the precipitous slopes of Mount Etna in Giardini Naxos. Experience an exclusive tour deep into the storied shadows of the Colosseum, and the Sistine Chapel, and dine in a Rome restaurant featuring authentic Italian dishes.

Vatican & Italian Riviera Cruise Tour

Listen closely and you’ll hear echoes of Europe’s past, from debates and discourse surrounding the broken columns and marble blocks in the Roman Forum, to the reverberating roar of smoking engines in 1920s roadsters winding up city streets to Monte Carlo’s Casino Square. Indulge your senses and engage your sense of wonder during this 9-day journey that combines a multi-day inland exploration to Rome with a scenic cruise along the steep and majestic Italian and French Rivieras. Tour the Sistine Chapel and discover the Colosseum, Rome’s most recognizable landmark. Savor fresh handmade pasta dishes and rich Chianti wines amidst the warm ambiance and sincere hospitality of a neighborhood Italian restaurant. Your cruise features unforgettable opportunities to experience the scenic Portoferraio Biosphere Reserve and explore the historic vineyards of Elba. Watch beachcombers from white-linen sidewalk cafés or sunbathe on romantic sandy beaches in Cannes. Inhale seafood aromas and herbal fragrances in a Barcelonan open market