7 8 Windstar Cruises’ John Delaney discusses the upcoming ship renovations that are part of the Star Plus Initiative Between October 2019 and November 2020, Italian shipyard Fincantieri will renovate three of Windstar Cruises Star Class ships; Star Breeze, Star Legend and Star Pride. The line will add a 25.6-metrelong section to each vessel, adding 50 suites to accommodate the new capacity of 312 guests. Fincantieri will simultaneously retrofit each vessel with new engines. “Many cruise lines have stretched ships before; that’s not that uncommon,” says John Delaney, president of Windstar Cruises. “But no one has ever fitted a ship with a new engine and stretched it at the same time with this level of renovation. It’s safe to say that this is quite a big project for us.” The major overhaul will touch almost every area of the ships, including refurbishments to all the accommodation and guest bathrooms, as well as some of the public spaces. “It’s not just about getting bigger; it’s also about giving our guests more of what they love,” Delaney comments. “When these ships were designed several years back, a world-class spa, a beautiful pool and a real fitness centre weren’t priorities onboard cruise ships. Now, they are extremely important to the affluent travellers we cater for.” The Veranda restaurants are just one of the public spaces receiving an update on each ship. The casual eatery currently boasts beautiful outdoor seating but doesn’t offer much in the way of indoor seating. “This isn’t ideal for when the weather takes a turn,” explains Delaney. “During the renovation, we will extend the Veranda with SWIMMING IN DECADENCE The elevated pool and whirlpool will be the focal point of the expanded open-air decking area and the once-per-cruise Deck Barbecue. Design note: REV ITAL I SATION Exclusive cruising for the modern traveller
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