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Detailed Itinerary

Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.

Day 1

Barcelona

The old meets the new in this sunny Catalan metropolis, where narrow alleyways contrast with grand boulevards, trendy cuisine meets homemade tapas, and everywhere you’re greeted by the warm, welcoming smiles of the fashionable locals. Don’t miss UNESCO sites like the mind-boggling architecture of Antoni Gaudí or La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, with its eight decorative spires soaring hundreds of feet into the sky.

Day 2

Valencia

This captivating city is best when savored slowly. Although Valencia’s religious architecture is remarkable, and the Lonja, one of Europe’s most elegant buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take time for an optional experience — paella. You’ll learn the local secrets of this gastronomic masterpiece as you cook it, eat it, and toast it with the region’s perfectly matched local wines. Want insider advice on where to find the tastiest restaurants, most unique local markets, authentic culinary shops, and hidden watering holes? Check out Valencia’s Local Dining Tip Curated by Saveur on our blog.

Day 3

Cartagena

The walled town of Cartagena is a popular seaport with a large naval shipyard. The seashore offers a wide range of activities from windsurfing to good snorkeling to sailing. From Cartagena you can easily explore the ancient city of Murcia, the coastal resorts of Mazarrón, Cala Cortina, and Cabo de Palos or a little further north, the world famous resort of Mar Menor.

Day 4

Day 5

Tangier

Fascinating Tangier is a traveler’s delight with beautiful vistas, lovely unspoiled beaches, intriguing history and friendly people. Separated from Spain by only 20 miles across the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is considered by many to be the gateway to Africa. With its cosmopolitan mix of African and European influences, there are many interesting sites in Tangier. The two UNESCO sites of the Medina (the old-walled city) a bustling place, and the Kasbah which offers beautiful views and fine Moroccan art, and the Place de France in the heart of the new city is an entertaining place to sip mint tea and enjoy the view.

Day 6

Seville

Today we cruise up the Guadalquivir River into the heart of Seville. (Most large cruise ships dock in Cádiz more than an hour away.) The Renaissance struck early here, during the Dark Ages that cloaked the rest of Europe. The Old Town alone contains three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the incomparable Alcázar Palace, just waiting for your own oohs and ahhs to echo through the Moorish arches and Italian courtyards. Or head out to the Donana National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Day 7

Seville

Day 8

Day 9

Lisbon

The rhythm of Lisbon invites you to join its captivating dance. This splendid capital city on the banks of the Rio Teja offers a warm welcome and an unparalleled blend of architectural styles. Elegant outdoor cafés line the cobbled sidewalks. Turn-of-the-century funiculars climb the scenic hills. Find the UNESCO sites of the Tower of Belem and the Monastery of the Hieronymites. And, everywhere, the city engages you with its easy style and remarkable charm.

Ship

Your cruise ship

About this ship

Star Explorer

Set to debut in December 2026, Star Explorer represents the next evolution of Windstar Cruises’ signature small-ship luxury. Purpose-built for yacht-style cruising and redesigned to reflect Windstar’s refined aesthetic, the ship will carry just 224 guests, ensuring an intimate, immersive travel experience with an emphasis on personalized service, expansive space, and destination-focused exploration.

Originally launched in 2019 and undergoing a complete reimagining, Star Explorer is being transformed into a modern luxury vessel with all-suite accommodations, multiple dining venues, a state-of-the-art spa, and sophisticated public spaces. The ship is designed to reflect Windstar’s relaxed yet elegant style, with interiors inspired by natural elements, coastal palettes, and refined materials.

Each of the 112 suites on board offers sweeping ocean views, many with private verandas or infinity windows that open to the sea. Accommodations range from the expansive Horizon Owner’s Suites—with separate living areas and wrap-around balconies—to well-appointed Veranda and Oceanview Suites, all featuring fine linens, Illy espresso machines, marble-clad bathrooms, and luxury amenities. Select suites accommodate up to three guests, offering flexibility for families and friends traveling together.

Culinary experiences aboard Star Explorer are thoughtfully curated. The main dining venue, Amphora, showcases globally inspired menus enhanced by Windstar’s partnership with the James Beard Foundation. A new specialty restaurant, Basil + Bamboo, presents a creative fusion of Italian and Asian cuisines in an elegant, contemporary setting. Additional venues include the casual, open-air Star Grill and the Yacht Club Café for lighter fare and specialty coffees. In-suite dining is available around the clock, and a complimentary ice cream station adds a playful touch.

Guests will find a wide range of amenities designed for relaxation and enrichment. A two-story wellness complex includes a full-service spa, fitness center, and treatment rooms, while a redesigned aft watersports platform offers easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in select anchorages. Expansive open decks provide space for lounging and scenic viewing, complemented by a whirlpool located at the front of the ship for a quiet, panoramic experience.

Star Explorer also reflects Windstar’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The ship is outfitted with Tier III nitrogen oxide-reducing engines, shore power capabilities, and advanced wastewater treatment systems. Its ice-strengthened hull allows it to safely navigate polar and remote regions, expanding the ship’s range to include not only Mediterranean and Caribbean ports but also destinations in Alaska, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

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