Wind Star
Ship Facts
Ship's Registry: Bahamas
Passenger Capacity: 148
Crew Members: 90
Decks: 4
Gross tonnage: 5,307
Length: 360 feet (110 meters) at waterline; 440 feet (134 meters) including bowsprit
Beam (width): 52.1 feet (15.8 meters)
Draft: 14 feet (4.1 meters)
Masts: 4 at 204 feet (62 meters)
Sails: 6 sails with 21,500 square feet (or 2,200 square meters)
Cruising Speed: 10 knots with engines only; up to 15.8 knots with prevailing wind
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Windward Islands Caribbean Cruise 2016
December 2 9, 2016
Windstar msy Wind Star
This is the Caribbean of days gone by deep blue waters, quiet coves, and tropical islands dotted with powdery beaches and lush green hillsides. Sail from the rugged natural beauty of St. Lucia to little-known isles that are off the tourist radar. From colorful Bequia and Mayreau in St. Vincent & the Grenadines to the open-air markets of exotic St. George's, you'll discover a part of the Caribbean that remains authentic and unspoiled. This is everything that makes the Caribbean synonymous with paradise.
The beach here isn't just a place to relax; it's been a way of life for thousands of years. Time slows, and you sink into your surroundings, taking in the warm sun and the crystalline waters around you. Divers, rejoice you'll be surrounded by reefs teeming with sea life, sunken ships and black coral trees. Hikers and bird-watchers will be excited to know the mountainous rainforests on the islands hold the trails to waterfalls, zip lines, and 30 species of native birds, including the rare Jacquot parrot. For the culinary afficianado, take a cooking class to learn the flavors of the Caribbean; spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon are cultivated here. With stops in Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, and St. Vincent & The Grenadines, you are sure to experience the best The Windward Islands have to offer.
Your Ship - Windstar Cruises msy Wind Star
Imagine a small luxury ship with amazing cuisine and an attentive staff, one where you are comfortable in casual attire, and are encouraged to have a relaxed, fun time. The 5-star Wind Star boasts teak decking, rich wood interiors, eclectic artwork, exceptional signature cuisine and an extensive wine list. Staterooms and suites offer ocean views, and all those little luxuries you enjoy at home: like flatscreen TVs and Bose sound dock systems.
The library onboard stocks an array of newspapers, books and games, as well as a multi-media selection of more than 500 DVD titles and compact discs available for complimentary check-out. Or, head to the casino, have a drink at the pool bar, or get pampered at the spa. If you love water sports, head to the ship's water sports platform and enjoy complimentary water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. Enjoy a sitting area, LCD flatscreen TV, DVD, CD player, iPod Nanos and Bose SoundDocks systems, safe, mini-bar/refrigerator, international direct-dial phones, bathroom with luxurious pampering toiletries, hair dryer, plush terry cloth robes, and an abundance of closet space.
Wind Star Ship Amenities
Windstar's award-winning service and style gives you the luxury of choice to enjoy what you like, when you like and with whom you like.
Wind Star offers two primary dining venues. AmphorA restaurant offers gourmet, course-by-course cuisine in the evenings and Veranda restaurant offers casual buffet and full-service dining for breakfast and lunch. All dining is open seating. And, for dining under the stars, make a reservation for Candles which features steaks and skewers.
Wind Star amenities include: WindSpa, Watersports Platform, Casino, Lounge, Library, Pool, and Hot Tub.
The Windstar's ms Wind Star is a beautifully designed, intimate 148-passengers ship and boasts the following ship amenities:
• Wind Star Lounge
• Casino
• The Yacht Club
• Compass Rose Bar
• Pool Bar
• Terrace Bar
• Salt-water pool
• Hot tub
• Wind Spa
• Fitness Center
• Signature Shops
• Photo Gallery
Wind Star Accommodations
All staterooms have ocean views, queen beds, flat-screen TV with DVD player, and Bose SoundDock speakers for Apple iPods. The Owner's Suite includes a sitting area.
All rooms are comfortably appointed with:
• LCD flat-screen television
• Hair dryer
• Vanity with magnifying mirror
• Euro-top mattresses
• Luxury bedding
• Egyptian cotton towels
• Plush terry robes & slippers
• One standard U.S. 110- and one European 220-volt outlet
• DVD/CD players
• Personal safe
• Refrigerator
• Mini-bar
• International direct dial phones
• Wireless internet (extra charge)
• Bose SoundDock speakers for use with your iPod
• Cell phone service (extra charge)
• Private bathrooms with shower
• L'Occitane toiletries
Traveler Info
Food
The food and history of Barbados have long been influenced by food and traditions from England, Portugal, Spain and West Africa. West Africans brought to Barbados in the 1600's were very influential in tradition and food. Traditional dishes have been created from foods found on and around the island, including rice, fish and guava.
Most Barbadian food that is traditional is cooked with English and African ingredients and a dash of local spices and herbs. Seasonings used in many dishes include marjoram, garlic, parsley, thyme, basil and spices such as paprika, salt, black pepper and clove.
Since vegetables such as asparagus and okra are locally grown, they are commonly used in dishes. Often, they are just lightly cooked and then sprinkled with a mixture of lime juice and butter. Local fish, including yellow fin tuna, snapper, mahi mahi and barracuda are also frequently found in Barbadian dishes.
Since sugar is grown on the island, it is no surprise that sweets are popular. Some local traditional candies are tamarind balls, guava cheese, chocolate fudge and peanut brittle. Coconut bread, Bajan baked custard and lemon meringue pie are also great desserts.
Activity Level
It is important that all guests are able to walk up and down several flights of stairs as there are no elevators on board. Many of the ports require tender service, so ability to get in and out of tenders is necessary.
While we would love for everyone to experience an Olivia cruise, we regret that we cannot provide individual assistance for guests with special needs, including (but not limited to): mobility and hearing impairment. A qualified and able booked passenger must accompany travelers who require assistance.
Wheelchairs and Scooters: Traveling, collapsible powered scooters and chairs or non-powered collapsible chairs may be brought on board by the guests to be used in ports, but not on board. Noting that many ports do not have accessibility for chairs, there is sometimes a need to carry chairs across beaches, as well as up and down some stairs, which must be done by a traveling partner. On bus tours, guests must be able to step up stairs to board the bus without assistance. In some ports, guests may be required to walk up stairs to disembark off the ships. For this reason, all guests must be ambulatory.
If the guest has walking issues, and uses a cane, we suggest bringing the canes that can also fold into a seat that can be used as a resting spot.
Based on your physical and mental limitations, you may be required to provide a Health questionnaire and a Doctor's signed statement prior to travel.
What is included?
• Accommodations for 8 days/7 nights on the elegant Wind Star
• All meals on board the ship's restaurants
• 24-hour room service
• Coffee, tea, and juices during all meals
• Airport transfers from Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Bridgetown, Barbados to the ship on arrival day (for arrivals prior to 3:00 pm)
• Airport transfers from the ship to the Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Bridgetown, Barbados on departure day (for departures after 8:00 am)
• Gratuity to ship's staff
• All port changes and service taxes
• Olivia's signature entertainment and programming
• Olivia staff assistance throughout
What's not included?
• Boutique, casino and spa services
• Alcohol such as wine, beer and cocktails
• Internet access, phone calls and other incidentals
• A wide menu of optional excursions in all ports of call (extra charge)
• Airfare
• Travel insurance
• Personal Items
• Medical attention
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Windward Islands Caribbean Cruise Itinerary
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Date |
Port |
Arrive |
Depart |
02 Dec |
Bridgetown, Barbados |
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6 PM |
03 Dec |
Pigeon Island, St. Lucia |
8 AM |
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04 Dec |
Pigeon Island, St. Lucia |
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10 PM |
05 Dec |
St. George's, Granada |
8 AM |
10 PM |
06 Dec |
Tobago Cays, St. Vincent |
8 AM |
10 PM |
07 Dec |
Mayreau, St. Vincent |
8 AM |
6 PM |
08 Dec |
Bequia, St. Vincent |
8 AM |
2 PM |
09 Dec |
Bridgetown, Barbados |
5 AM |
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Please arrive into Barbados prior to 3:00pm on December 2, 2016.
Your departure out of Barbados on December 9 can be anytime after 8:00am.
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Bridgetown, Barbados Friday, December 2, 2016
Welcome to Barbados! This infectiously happy island offers beautiful beaches, balmy weather, and a delightful British flair. Former sugar plantations furnished with Barbados mahogany and antiques vie for your attention with brightly painted wooden houses. The island's centuries-old rum industry has divided the Bajan landscape into a pretty patchwork of fields dotted with coconut and royal palms, oleander, and aromatic citrus trees
Pigeon Island, St. Lucia Saturday, December 3, 2016
With sunken ships surrounded by black coral trees, purple vase sponges, and a myriad of neon-hued fish, St. Lucia is a diver's paradise. When you're finished playing in the water, the mountainous rainforests of the interior await. Nature trails of every level lead you to the astonishing chatter and spectacular colors of 30 species of native birds including the rare and beautiful Jacquot parrot.
Pigeon Island, St. Lucia Sunday, December 4, 2016
Spend your second day on Pigeon Island learning how to cook St. Lucian style with an optional cooking class! For those who are active, head into the rainforest for a zip line adventure or hike to a river and swim in the pools of water that await. You can always go into town and explore the quaint shops to take home something to remember.
St. George's, Granada Monday, December 5, 2016
A lively blend of French and English cultures, St. George's has steep hills to climb, spectacular views to drink in, and a fascinating rum distillery to tour. Shop for nutmeg, cinnamon, and other "Spice Island" specialties in one of the town's bustling local markets. Or, as an option, you can hike past the postcard-perfect waterfalls and natural springs surrounding Grand Etang Lake on the island's mountainous interior.
Tobago Cays, St. Vincent Tuesday, December 6, 2016
Sail, snorkel, or beachcomb in complete seclusion in this unspoiled tropical paradise accessible only by boat. Quiet places like Horseshoe Reef are home to fantastic coral reefs, while nearby Baradal offers an excellent opportunity to observe the area's famous sea turtles. Crystalline waters and perfect weather make this an ideal spot to play in the sea.
Mayreau, St. Vincent Wednesday, December 7, 2016
The remote coastline of rocky crags, pristine beaches and sparkling coves will wow you as you approach the shore for this beautiful day in the rainforest. The Corcovado National Park awaits, with its red-eyed tree frogs, tapirs, harpy eagles, white-lipped peccaries and new world monkeys ready to greet you. This is also your chance to swim in warm waters with marlins, dolphins and humpback whales.
Bequia, St. Vincent Thursday, December 8, 2016
Once an active whaling station, Bequia today is a favorite among insiders for its unspoiled beauty and easy pace. Fishing nets dry in the sun in the pretty town of Port Elizabeth, situated on one of the loveliest harbors in the Caribbean. Pick a spot beneath a palm tree on the nearby beach and watch a schooner being hand built for a fortunate yacht owner. Or take home a perfectly detailed miniature version of your own.
Bridgetown, Barbados Friday, December 9, 2016
Our time together ends today, but before you go to the airport, take one final excursion to visit Harrison's Cave or the Colleton Great House.
Traveler Info
Currency
The currency of Barbados is the Barbados dollar (BBD). When planning your Barbados vacation remember that the Barbados Dollar is converted at the fixed rate of $1.98 BDS to $1.00 U.S. St. Lucia, Grenada, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines all use the East Caribbean dollar. Please note: the U.S. dollar is accepted in most tourist areas on all islands.
Languages
The local language of Barbados is often referred to as Bajan dialect, or quite simply Bajan. Although the native language is British English, the Bajan dialect can very often seem like a whole other language in itself.
Travel documentation and identification
You will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country's consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
Visa
If you are a U.S. Citizen, you DO NOT need to get a visa for travel to Barbados. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country's consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
Where to fly into/out of
You will need to fly into and out of Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Bridgetown, Barbados. We encourage all passengers to arrive at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
Suggested arrival/departure times
Please arrive into Barbados prior to 3:00pm on December 2, 2016. Shuttle from the airport or host hotel to the ship on day of embarkation is included.
Your departure out of Barbados on December 9 can be anytime after 8:00am. A group transfer from the ship to the Grantley Adams International Airport in Bridgetown, Barbados (BGI) on December 9, 2016 is included. You will need to purchase a taxi for flights departing earlier than 8:00am.
Please DO NOT book arrivals after 3:00 pm on December 2 or prior to 8:00 am on December 9, 2016! If your flight times are close to this cutoff, please check with us to confirm that they are okay. These group transfers are only included if within the above guidelines. Flights that arrive or depart outside of these timelines may be subject to the guest hiring their own taxi transfers, or risk missing the ship/flight.
Transfer time from the BGI airport or host hotel to the ship is approximately 30 minutes.
Check-in
Embarkation and check-in will be available after 3 pm. However, if you have an early morning flight arrival, we will offer optional day room packages at the host hotel. This will include breakfast, use of the facility and an afternoon transfer to the ship.
Getting to the ship
The airport transfer to the ship is included in the cost of the trip on the day of embarkation. Transfers will be provided from the Grantley Adams International Airport in Bridgetown, Barbados (BGI) or from our Barbados host hotel (TBA). Specific information such as name of hotel, pickup time and where to meet will be in your final documents. The transfer to the ship is approximately 30 minutes from either the hotel or the airport.
After your trip - Transfers to the airport
Transfers from the ship to the Grantley Adams International Airport in Bridgetown, Barbados (BGI) are included for flights departing after 8:00am on December 9, 2016.
Vacation Stretchers
Pre-trip hotel packages will be available 11 months prior to the trip. Please refer to the Vacation Stretcher page for more information.
Luggage allowances
While there is no luggage limit on the cruise itself, airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances.
Excursions
Excursions may be booked online up to 30 days in advance. Your booking number and detailed instructions regarding shore excursions and activities will be sent closer to the trip.
Gratuities
Gratuities are included in the cost of the cruise. Gratuities are provided for your cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, ma๎tre d' and other-behind-the-scenes crew members. Tips to your local guides on excursions are not included, and are recommended.
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Wind Star
Click on a decks below to discover the Wind Star
We help you select the best cabin according to your requirements
Clicking on a the deck below will open it in a separate window
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Occupancy: 148 • Tonnage: 5,307 • Length: 360/440 feet • Beam: 52,1 feet • Cruising Speed: 10/15,8 knots • Registry: Bahamas
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2016 Windward Islands Caribbean Cruise Rates
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OS - Owner's Suite |
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Deck 1. With an expansive 220 square feet, the Owner's Suite gives you everything offered in a stateroom, plus lots more, including a beautiful sitting area and separate in-room dining space. Owner's Suites have oversized porthole windows, a queen-sized bed, ample closet and drawer space, private bathroom with shower, and a spacious living area with sofa, mini bar, refrigerator, and entertainment center with flat screen television, DVD/CD player, and a BOSE SoundDock System with personal iPod nano.
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AX - Deluxe Stateroom |
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Deck 2. Deluxe Oceanview staterooms have porthole windows, a queen-sized bed, ample closet space, private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with vanity, mini bar, refrigerator, flat screen television, DVD/CD player, and a BOSE SoundDock System with personal iPod nano. All staterooms have luxurious linens and towels, thermostat controlled air conditioning, personal safe, telephone, wireless internet access, access to the ship's DVD and CD library, and full-course dining in your stateroom.
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A Category Stateroom |
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Deck 2. Standard staterooms have porthole windows, a queen-sized bed, ample closet space, private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with vanity, mini bar, refrigerator, flat screen television, DVD/CD player, and a BOSE SoundDock System with personal iPod nano. All staterooms have luxurious linens and towels, thermostat controlled air conditioning, personal safe, telephone, wireless internet access, access to the ship's DVD and CD library, and full-course dining in your stateroom.
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BX Category Stateroom |
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Deck 1. Deluxe Oceanview staterooms have porthole windows, a queen-sized bed, ample closet space, private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with vanity, mini bar, refrigerator, flat screen television, DVD/CD player, and a BOSE SoundDock System with personal iPod nano. All staterooms have luxurious linens and towels, thermostat controlled air conditioning, personal safe, telephone, wireless internet access, access to the ship's DVD and CD library, and full-course dining in your stateroom.
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B Category Stateroom |
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Deck 1. Standard staterooms have porthole windows, a queen-sized bed, ample closet space, private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with vanity, mini bar, refrigerator, flat screen television, DVD/CD player, and a BOSE SoundDock System with personal iPod nano. All staterooms have luxurious linens and towels, thermostat controlled air conditioning, personal safe, telephone, wireless internet access, access to the ship's DVD and CD library, and full-course dining in your stateroom.
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Pre-Cruise Package
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Pre-trip hotel packages available. Please request for Vacation Stretcher details.
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Special Airfares
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Rates: Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Pricing does not include airfare, insurance, fuel surcharge or NDA of $499 (subject to change).
Early bird prices valid until September 2, 2016.
Availability updated weekly and is provided for informational purposes only. The accuracy is not guaranteed. Olivia & HappyGay Travel will not be held responsible for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies. It is advised for guests to check information provided on this site with an HappyGay Travel Travel Consultant.
For more information please read Olivia Terms & limit of responsibility
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