Should I give Windstar a try...
 

I've read several postings on Fodors about Windstar and would like to decide if this might be a cruise line to try.

After trying 6 or 7 of the larger, newer ships I was dissatisfied and pretty much decided to just stick with land vacation. I then discovered the smaller ships with such personalized service and great food that I now love cruising.

I like something casual (or where you can easily opt out of formal nights); I do not like buffets or waiting in any line more than a couple of minutes; I love a balcony and spacious cabin; friendly laid back passengers, I like all-inclusive lines (hate signing chix all week), I prefer sailing without my kids or someone else's, top quality food is high on my list, a small casino works fine for an occasional evening of blackjack.

A good Value is "key" and much more important to me than the actual price itself.

Should I give Windstar a try based on what I've shared about myself? (I do not have any specific itinerary in mind).

Have been on windstar some years ago, and was not impressed. We did do the Royal Clipper for two weeks, and it was very enjoyable.( In January)

Their website is www.starclippers.com

You won't be disappointed with the Royal Clipper. The other two ships are smaller, and not as nice.

OUTSTANDING service, excellent food, no complaints. Very nice.

manycruiser,

We are booked on the Royal Clipper for late next summer in the Mediteranean. Is the ship as good as it looks on the web site? How formal/casual is the ship for dinners and receptions? We are in a category 5 cabin, forward on the Commodore deck. Do you know how cramped these are? Where was your cabin and what did you think of it? This ship and the Mediteranean itinerary look and sound spectacular.

Jack and Ann

I looked on the Windstar web site and it appears that the cabins just have picture windows. Maybe you have to get a suite in order to have a balcony..??

There are no balconies on Windstar.

jackandann

We were in a category 2. It is a bit cozy as you only have portholes. The only cabins that have windows are those with a balcony. The cabin was well done, and I would recommend having the beds set up as two twins, as you have more room when the person on the inside has to get up.

The ship is very beautiful, and the staff is just the best. There is not a lot to do, but it was a fun trip. We did a back to back in the Grenadines.

It is pretty casual. No coat and tie for the guys, and decent casual clothes for the ladies. Breakfast and Lunch are buffets, which I normally do not like, but it isn't crowded, and the service is great.

I think you will really enjoy your trip. Very relaxed, the bridge is open, the captain is very friendly, always chatting with the passengers and telling stories topside. Super good.

The best part is the night you sail out..we got to see it twice....it is dark, the light goes on the sails, and they play the music from Columbus 1492. It is breathtaking to watch the sails.

You will have a delightful trip. You made a very good choice.