Quick Getaways: A Taste of Southern France

Wind Surf is the crown jewel of Windstar’s fleet—a majestic five-masted sailing yacht that delivers the romance of classic seafaring paired with the elegance and comfort of a modern small ship. As the largest vessel in Windstar’s collection, Wind Surf carries just 342 guests, preserving the line’s commitment to intimacy while offering generous space, upscale amenities, and a truly immersive style of travel.

Originally built in 1990 and acquired by Windstar in 1998, Wind Surf has undergone a series of thoughtful refurbishments that honor her graceful nautical lines while updating the interiors and onboard offerings to reflect a contemporary, boutique-luxury standard. Her soaring sails—automated yet fully functional—allow guests to experience the beauty of wind-powered cruising, often sailing into port with a sense of drama and authenticity no larger ship can replicate.

The ship features 154 ocean-view accommodations, including 31 suites and two deluxe Bridge Suites. Each stateroom is designed with timeless materials and a calm, coastal-inspired aesthetic. Marble bathrooms, L’Occitane amenities, premium linens, and well-appointed sitting areas provide comfort and functionality, while the larger suites offer expanded living space and additional privileges, including preferred dining reservations and personalized service.

Dining aboard Wind Surf is a sophisticated yet unpretentious affair, with multiple restaurants that celebrate culinary variety and regional inspiration. Amphora, the main dining venue, offers a nightly menu of gourmet dishes in an elegant, open-seating setting. Stella Bistro showcases refined French cuisine with modern flair, while Candles transforms the deck into a romantic, open-air grill under the stars. The Veranda is a casual breakfast and lunch spot overlooking the sea, and the Yacht Club Café offers light bites, specialty coffees, and ocean views throughout the day.

The onboard experience is as much about rejuvenation as it is exploration. Guests can unwind in the full-service World Spa by Windstar, exercise in the fitness center, or enjoy a swim in the pool followed by a soak in one of several hot tubs. A signature feature of the yacht is its watersports platform, which opens directly onto the sea and provides complimentary access to paddle boards, kayaks, snorkel gear, and more when anchored in select locations.

Wind Surf sails to some of the world’s most enchanting coastal regions, including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and Northern Europe. Her size allows her to slip into smaller ports and scenic harbors inaccessible to larger cruise ships, enabling more meaningful encounters with local culture, history, and natural beauty.

Elegant yet relaxed, polished but never pretentious, Wind Surf is designed for travelers who appreciate the thrill of the open sail, the comfort of spacious suites, and the rewards of authentic, unhurried discovery. She is not just a ship, but a sailing experience reimagined for the modern world.