Windstar Cruises may only have three ships, but its trademark white sails and reputation for luxury have made it one of the more notable lines in the industry. The three vessels, the Wind Star, the Wind Spirit, and the Wind Surf, feature high end staterooms, quality spa services and food and wine that is well beyond common cruise fare.

The Windstar ships will start their 2009 voyages in the Mediterranean. They will ply the waters around Greece, Italy and Spain during October, before heading across the Atlantic to spend the remainder of ’09 in the Caribbean. The Wind Star will offer the highlight of the Gulf of Mexico leg when it sails through the Panama Canal in late November. All three ships will spend the holiday season in the Caribbean in locations like St. Martin, Barbados, and Costa Rica.

How much does the Windstar brand of luxury cost? It depends on when you board. The October Istanbul to Athens cruise lasts only 7 days, but costs nearly $4,000 per person. The leg from Barbados to Costa Rica, passing through the Panama Canal, costs the same but lasts for 14 days. Most weeklong Windstar Caribbean cruises cost between $2,000 and $3,000 per person.

Windstar ships are much smaller than the giant vessels that are typically associated with cruising. The capacity of the Wind Surf is about 300. The other boats hold only about 150. Despite the size, Windstar generally earns at least 4 stars (out of 5) when it comes to service ratings. Because they are smaller, Windstar ships are able to enter ports that larger ships cannot. In addition, passengers can easily interact with the crew and are allowed access to the bridge.

Windstar flies the flag of the Bahamas and is owned by Holland America Cruise Lines. A complete list of cruises and prices can be found on the Windstar web site.

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