Leave the Crowds Behind on 12 New Cruises to Asia & Arabia in Private Yacht Style
Seattle, WA (PRWEB) November 28, 2016 -- Boutique cruise line Windstar Cruises is sailing to Arabia, Southeast Asia, and East Asia in winter/spring 2017-18. The elegant, all-suite yacht Star Legend embarks just 212 guests on new itineraries with 12 sailing dates from 10 to 18 days in length departing Oct. to April and including dozens of maiden port calls, many off the tourist path. These small ship cruises are designed to immerse travelers into the heart of local cultures, indulging guests with the exclusive comforts and culinary delights of a private yacht.
Windstar’s Asia and Arabia cruises offer larger-than-life adventures and exceptional experiences only possible on a small ship. Star Legend will proudly sail into the hub of must-see Asian cities where larger ships typically dock on the outskirts. The agile yacht sails on routes less traveled, visiting out-of-the-way islands, and charming harbors that big ships skip. Itineraries are carefully crafted with scenic cruising and active exploration in mind.
The new itineraries span cosmopolitan marvels like Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Tokyo but also explore the smaller ports and villages, unspoiled islands, and exotic shores of Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, South Korea, Borneo and the Philippines.
“Planning the perfect voyage for our guests is a passion. Our team is thrilled to introduce a remarkably diverse collection of cruises to Asia and Arabia. Our guests will experience firsthand the wonderful people and compelling cultures of this incredible region, all in Windstar’s true small ship style, that is intimate and inviting. We create bespoke travel experiences that I call — destination authenticity,” remarked Windstar President John Delaney.
By day, the yacht may anchor at hidden harbors and tropical islands of the South China Sea where cruisers swim, snorkel, water ski, and stand-up paddle board right from the ship’s Watersports Platform. By night, guests gaze at star-filled skies from the unique Open Bridge, learning from the Captain where their yacht will navigate next. Adventures include sailing the majestic Yangtze River, “selfies” set off by glimmering skylines, tasting authentic Asian cuisine, chasing Japanese cherry blossoms, and kayaking amidst towering limestone pillars in Halong Bay.
New journeys of discovery center on the romantic, the exotic, and the cultural wonders of Arabia. Two one-time-only repositioning sailings visit Egypt, Arabia and the Indian Ocean in fall of 2017. Choose Athens to Dubai via the Suez Canal with a chance to see Petra and Luxor; or Dubai to Singapore via India and Malaysia with a visit to the beautiful beaches of Phuket. Combine the two for an incredible 34-day cruise without repeating ports.
Windstar’s 6 destination-centric Asian itineraries offer a choice of 10 departure dates and include a round trip Singapore cruise to Malaysia and Thailand; three cruises between Singapore and Hong Kong via Malaysian Borneo, Brunei and the Philippines; two Hong Kong to Bangkok (or reverse) cruises via Vietnam; one Hong Kong to Beijing cruise via Taiwan, islands of Japan and mainland China; a Beijing to Tokyo sailing via South Korea; and two Tokyo to Osaka (or reverse) cruises. Guests can combine cruises for an extended voyage of up to 43 days.
In conjunction with the new Asia and Arabia cruises, the line launched the Star Perks Event with reduced fares and a choice of one free perk when booked by December 9, 2016. Free perks include a choice of up to 2 complimentary pre/post hotel nights; premium beverage package; unlimited Wi-Fi package; or up to US$1,000 shipboard credit.
Star Perks Event reduced fares start at US$3,999 per guest for a 10-day Grand Japan cruise sailing either April 14 or 24, 2018. The Grand Japan itinerary sails between Yokohama (Tokyo) and Osaka, with scenic cruising and visits to Shimizu, Shingu, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Hakata and Hiroshima, Japan; as well as Busan, South Korea. Twelve departure dates on Asia and Arabia cruises are offered from October 2017 through April 2018; book by December 9, 2016.
Exploring Asia aboard the all-suite 212-guest Star Legend
All Windstar sailings in Arabia and Asia in 2017 and 2018 will take place aboard the 212-guest Star Legend, boasting all-suite accommodations and beautifully-appointed public spaces such as the elegant AmphorA restaurant. The delightful Veranda restaurant doubles in the evening as romantic Candles with an eclectic menu and open air dining. The marquis Yacht Club lounge located on the top guest deck is a favorite spot for cruisers to relax, mix and mingle while enjoying 270-degree indoor/outdoor viewing opportunities from a comfortable living-room-style venue. Wi-Fi hotspots, specialty coffee/tea bar and á la carte light bites refreshed throughout the day, draw in cruisers, and the full-service open-air Star Bar is close-by.
Guest may choose from 106 suites, including 36 popular Balcony Suites with French balconies that invite cruisers to step out and enjoy ocean scenery up close; or choose one of 64 Ocean View Suites with large picture windows. Windstar suites offer more room than many hotels, with stylish décor, walk-in closets, marble bathrooms with tub or shower, top-of-the-line L’Occitane® toiletries, and a tranquil seating area with a view. Splurge on one of two luxurious Owner’s Suites just below the yacht’s Open Bridge, with a stunning view from the private veranda, living/dining room, separate bedroom, walk-in closet and marble bath. Or, engage one of four spacious Classic Suites, two forward with sweeping views, and two located near the Atrium, both with private verandas.
Tailored (optional) shore excursions offer numerous chances to experience awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and learn about the local history, cuisine, and art of both ancient and modern ports. Specialized programming on board by expert guest lecturers expounds on the individuality of the cultures and intricacies of the history of the region. On board Star Legend, yacht guests will enjoy regionally-themed cuisine, exotic libations, entertainment and activities with a local flair, and always gracious and attentive service.
For additional information on Star Legend, Star Perks and new Asia and Arabia cruises contact a travel professional or Windstar Cruises by phone at 877-958-7718, or visit http://www.windstarcruises.com.
Mary Schimmelman, Windstar Cruises, http://www.windstarcruises.com, 206-733-2970, [email protected]
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