Windstar Cruises Kicks Off 40th Anniversary Celebrations

Windstar Cruises has officially kicked off its ruby anniversary sailing season, marking 40 years since the company’s founding. To celebrate, the cruise line brought together two of its vessels - Star Class motor yacht Star Legend and Wind Class sailing yacht Wind Spirit - 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 event at the historic ruins of Ephesus, featuring the largest dinner Windstar has ever hosted at the site. Windstar leadership, captains, crew, and guests from both ships enjoyed a special evening together at the archeological site.

Windstar typically offers this four-course, al fresco dining experience to guests on all sailings accessing the region. The celebration event brought two ships in attendance, with entertainment from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra and vocalists, a progressive cocktail party, and speeches to commemorate the company's anniversary. 

Wind Spirit Captain Mark Rowden and Star Legend Captain Pedro Pinto spoke of their seafaring careers and how Windstar has made an impact within the cruising industry. Both recognized Windstar's exceptional crew, many of whom have been with the company for over 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 was founded in 1984 by Karl Andren and Jean-Claude Potier with a vision for a fleet of modern sail cruisers. The line will celebrate its milestone anniversary across the fleet through October 2025, with additional activations and memorable moments. Among these will be Ruby Anniversary cocktails served at a special 40 years of Windstar trivia events. Winners of trivia games will be entered into a drawing to win a cruise for two on Star Seeker's inaugural cruise or limited edition anniversary Seabags, crafted from Windstar's recycled sails. 

Celebrate 40 Years of Windstar Cruises - Explore All Sailings

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