MIAMI, FL, December 10, 2024 - Windstar Cruises has experienced an unprecedented demand for its 2026 sailings in Japan aboard its newest ship Star Seeker, which joins the small ship company’s fleet in December of 2025. In response, Windstar is now opening up spring 2027 bookings for Japan earlier than planned, and adding an extra fall date, in order to meet customers’ requests for more bookable sailings in this coveted region. Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, Windstar’s 10-night Grand Japan itinerary packs in a variety of the country’s highlights (plus a stop in Busan, South Korea) on an intimate cruise.
“Just months after announcing our 2026 plans in Japan, we’re nearly sold out,” says Windstar Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava. “The combination of our return to Asia for the first time since 2023, along with the anticipation of a new ship and the fact that Japan is now one of the world’s most visited countries, has created an excitement for this region that we have not seen before.”
Star Seeker will cross the Pacific from Alaska to Japan in early September of 2026, where Windstar will bring back its popular Grand Japan itinerary on five dates through October. The spring 2027 sailings will take place on seven dates from March through May.
Grand Japan highlights include scenic cruising the Inland Sea; sailing around the abandoned island of Hashima; visiting the Peace Memorial Parks of Nagasaki and Hiroshima; and calling on smaller ports like Takamatsu (famous for its gardens and Udon) and Karatsu, including its incredible castle. Cruisers can extend their stay with the Kyoto & the Zen of Japan Cruise Tour, featuring inland tours to Kyoto where guests can bathe in hot springs, experience a traditional tea ceremony, and visit the Golden Pavilion. Of course spring dates mean the potential to experience Japan’s famed cherry blossoms, and Star Seeker’s accommodations are poised for ample spring season sightseeing as most have balconies and infinity windows.
Along with the announcement, Windstar is offering an Early Booking Offer including a Complimentary Upgrade to All-Inclusive Fares, which include Wi-Fi, gratuities, and unlimited select beer, wine, and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom. The offer expires February 28, 2025.
In addition, only a 15 percent deposit is required to book, with final payment required just 120 days before sailing.
Windstar’s Grand Japan sailings have been particularly attractive for groups, and these newly added sailings are applicable for Windstar’s Star Group Sailings program – while space/occupancy allows. Star Groups receive a five percent discount from savings fares; one tour conductor credit earned for every nine persons confirmed; a guest amenity of $100 per person shipboard credit; as well as a complimentary cocktail party with hors d’oeuvres for 18 and older guests.
To plan a small ship cruise with Windstar or learn about booking offers, contact a travel advisor, reach out to Windstar Cruises by phone at 866-258-7245, book online here, or request a call by a Windstar vacation planner. Find more information on Windstar Cruises here.
Tags: Janet Bava, Windstar Cruises
