Windstar Cruises’ new owner, Xanterra Parks & Resorts, will invest $18 million to renovate the luxury line’s three ships: Wind Surf, Wind Spirit and Wind Star.
The project will be completed in phases starting this fall, when the 312-passenger Wind Surf receives upgrades to cabins, suites and corridors in advance of the winter Caribbean season, which begins in early December.
A timber boardwalk also will be added to the Wind Surf. Next fall, renovations to the ship's public spaces will be completed, Windstar said.
The Wind Spirit and Wind Star will be renovated next spring, after their respective Caribbean and Costa Rica seasons and before their Mediterranean deployments in April.
The refurbishment of the 148-passenger ships will target cabins, suites and corridors along with restaurants, lounges, spas, libraries, pool bars and reception areas.
“Our new owners are committed to Windstar’s growth for the long term,” said Windstar CEO hans Birkholz. “Previously, there have been enhancements and refurbishment projects throughout the years to keep our yachts beautiful. However, this is the most extensive fleet-wide refurbishment project in Windstar’s history.”
In May, Xanterra acquired Windstar in a bankruptcy auction for $39 million.