Windstar Cruises FAQ

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• Casually Elegant – Windstar’s 180 degress from ordinary cruise experience breeds relaxation. Our casually elegant design is comprised of three elements: the ship design, combined with a Luxury As You Like It® onboard environment, and our pampering without pretense attitude.
• The Ship Design – Each ship, whether it has graceful, billowing sails or is a sleek and sexy all-suite motor ship will give you the small ship advantage, designed to be functional and comfortable. There are public and private places. Lots of light and air, ocean views everywhere. Simple and superb – beautifully appointed staterooms and suites. An inviting layout, easy to get around. The natural fabrics and rich woods are impeccably maintained. These relaxed and stylish ships are large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into delightful tiny harbors and hidden coves others can’t reach, just like your own private yacht.
• The Environment – Unregimented. Unstructured. Giving you the freedom to choose to have all the privacy you want, or to be pampered. Design your experience to be as inclusive – or not – as you want. You have the flexibility to include flights, hotel (pre/post cruise), shore excursions, beverage packages, and other onboard amenities to your cruise. Service that is attentive when you need it to be. A warm, smiling crew who get to know what you like. The Bridge is almost always open for your visit. There are many activities at hand, but they are never imposed.
• No assigned seating in Amphora or Veranda restaurants. And what can be more casual than merely signing for onboard purchases? You will feel like this is your ship, your personal yacht. The environment inspires the attitude. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board.
• The Attitude – Casually Elegant is an attitude, brought about by a luxurious ship design and an environment of freedom … allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation exactly as you would like to. The attitude is found in our crew too. They are efficient in an unassuming, relaxed way. They are respectful of our guests, pampering without pretense. Flexible. Approachable. And experienced in knowing people and the role service plays in the enjoyment of your vacation.
• The Luxury As You Like It attitude of a Windstar ship is also reflected in the way our guests dress: Imaginative, yet relaxed. Stylish, yet comfortable. Just as you would dress at an elegant resort. Clothes that are light and cool, made of natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen, are most appropriate. For women’s daytime wear, we suggest walking shorts, skirts, sarongs, lightweight tops and cover-ups; for evening wear, sun dresses, pants, and informal cocktail attire. Men’s daytime wear: walking/ Bermuda shorts, polo shirts, khaki pants; in the evening, lightweight trousers and short-sleeved dress/polo shirts. No suits or ties. And no shorts, flip-flops, jeans, hats or t-shirts in Amphora or Candles during the evening. If your cruise takes you to Monte Carlo, please note that casinos there require men to wear both a tie and a jacket.

AIRLINE DELAYS

• • If you believe a delay will cause you to arrive in the port of embarkation less than 2 hours before the ship’s scheduled departure, call us at 866-507-9406. Representatives are available 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday or Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time. Outside of these hours and during holidays, call 206-733-2991 (emergency use only).

ALCOHOL ON BOARD POLICY

• • Passengers are allowed to bring aboard two (2) bottles of wine or champagne (750ml) per cabin for their enjoyment on board for a 7-day Cruise or three (3) bottles for an 8-day (or longer) Cruise. Passengers may consume these permitted outside beverages in public areas on the ship, but a small corkage fee (approximately US$15) will be applied to the Passenger’s onboard account. All additional outside alcohol (meaning wine, beer and/or hard alcohol) including alcohol purchased at ports of call along the Cruise route, will be kept by the ship’s staff and delivered to the Passenger’s cabin the last evening of the Cruise.

BAGGAGE POLICY; PROHIBITED ITEMS

• • Windstar will carry as baggage only your personal effects consisting of wearing apparel, toilet articles and similar items for your wearing, comfort or convenience during the Cruise and not belonging to or intended for use by any other person or for sale. Radioactive materials, controlled substances (other than lawfully obtained prescription drugs), firearms, ammunition, weapons, fireworks, aerial drones, and illicit or hazardous materials are strictly prohibited. Passengers are allowed to bring aboard two (2) bottles of wine or champagne (750ml) per cabin for their enjoyment onboard for a 7-day Cruise or three (3) bottles for an 8-day (or longer) Cruise. Passengers may consume these permitted outside beverages in public areas on the ship, but a small corkage fee (approximately US$15 + 15% gratuity) will be applied to the Passenger’s onboard account. All additional outside alcohol (meaning wine, beer and/or hard alcohol) including alcohol purchased at ports of call along the Cruise route, will be kept by the ship’s staff and delivered to the Passenger’s cabin the last evening of the Cruise.For loading and unloading the ship and other means of transportation, all baggage must be tendered for carriage in securely constructed and locked suitcases or trunks. All baggage must be able to be safely stowed in your cabin on the ship. The only animals permitted to accompany you are recognized service dogs for passengers with disabilities; you are responsible for complying with governmental health, documentation and other requirements as to recognized service dogs.
  • Windstar does not assume any liability for any loss of or damage to or delay of perishable items, medicine, liquor, cash, credit or debit cards, passports, travel documents, jewelry, gold, silver, or similar valuables, securities, financial instruments or other valuable business documents, computers, cellular telephones, laptops or tablet computers, cameras, hearing aids, electric wheelchairs, scooters, or other video or electronic equipment, binoculars, film, videotapes, computer discs, audio discs, tapes or CDs. These items should not be left lying about the ship or your stateroom or suite, nor should they be left unattended on other vessels, on vehicles or in hotels, nor placed in luggage other than a bag that you carry with you. In addition, Windstar will not assume any liability for any loss of or damage to carry-on baggage left unattended on the ship or on other modes of transportation or in hotels. Windstar ships provide stateroom or suite safes at no extra charge. Certain hotels may also provide similar facilities. Your use of stateroom or suite safes or similar facilities will not increase Windstar’s liability, as described here.
  • Windstar cannot be responsible for any loss or damage that occurs before baggage comes into Windstar’s actual custody when you begin your travel with us or after baggage leaves Windstar’s actual custody at the end of your travel with us. In particular, please note that we assume no responsibility for loss, damage, or delay while baggage is in the custody of airlines. If Windstar is liable for loss of, damage to, or delay of your property, the amount of Windstar’s liability will not exceed US$100 (US$600 for guests who have purchased the Cancellation Protection Plan) unless you have specified to Windstar in writing the true value of your property and paid to Windstar before departure 1% of the value in excess of US$100 or US$600, as applicable. In that event, Windstar’s liability will be limited to the amount so specified.

BAGGAGE TAGS

• • All checked luggage must be tagged with your name, address and phone number. Also attach a baggage tag to each piece of luggage, including carry-on bags, and mark your name and stateroom or suite number clearly.

BEVERAGE PACKAGES

• • While all non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary, you may enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail under the setting sun or a champagne toast at the evening Sail Away with our beverage packages for wine, beer, cocktails and more. Find the perfect wine pairing with your meal and then end the night sipping scotch as you contemplate the stars.Topmast Discoveries Beer & Wine Package – $49 per person per day
    An extensive package of diverse and intriguing wines from traditional European winegrowing terroirs to New World regions. Includes domestic and imported beer and 33 varieties of wine by the glass.Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package – $59 per person per day
    The ultimate beverage package and the perfect way to try new drinks for a bit of added adventure. Includes  all domestic and imported beers and 33 varieties of wine/sparkling/champagne by the glass PLUS cordials, liqueurs, apertifs, cocktails and even mini bar items. (Cocktails based on house & select brands)Beverage Packages are sold per person and must be purchased in advance or during the first two days of your cruise and for the full duration of the cruise. Prices do not include the standard 15% beverage service charge. Package prices are inclusive of applicable taxes. The minimum drinking age aboard Windstar Cruises is 21 years old.

BOARDING PROCEDURE

• • Embarkation time is 1:00 p.m. All guests should be on board no later than 1 hour before departure. Passports are collected upon embarkation and held safely by the Purser’s Office until the end of the cruise. You will be issued a receipt for your passport and a card key for access to your stateroom/suite and access on and off the ship.

TRANSFERS

• • Windstar Cruises Air/Hotel Packages: If you have booked your air or hotel accommodations through Windstar Cruises, transfers are NOT included and have to be purchased separately. Services for Windstar cruise-only guests (individuals who do not purchase air transportation or cruise extensions from Windstar) begin with embarkation at the noted time in your cruise documents. Any transfers, meals, and dayroom accommodations required prior to this time are the responsibility of the traveler. Please make a note of this, as many international flights arrive several hours prior to the scheduled embarkation time.
  • Windstar Cruises Air/Hotel Packages: Purchasing Transfers: Guests may purchase transfers between airport and pier, between Windstar Cruises designated pre- / post-hotels and pier, and between airport and designated pre-/post-hotels if it is within standard Windstar Cruises Services.
  • Temporary Terminations: If guests have chosen to stay at a non-Windstar Cruises hotel, guests will not be able to purchase transfers. Transfers are NOT available for purchase for guests choosing to deviate from standard Windstar Cruises services. If there is a “temporary termination” (e.g., guests who have Windstar Cruises Major City Airport but have chosen to stay in a non-Windstar Cruises hotel or guests who arrive early and choose to stay at a non-Windstar Cruises hotel), no transfers will be available for purchase.
  • Services for Windstar cruise-only guests: Services for individuals who do not purchase air transportation or cruise extensions from Windstar begin with embarkation at the noted time in your cruise documents. Any transfers, meals and dayroom accommodations required prior to this time are the responsibility of the travelers. Please make a note of this, as many international flights arrive several hours prior to the scheduled embarkation time.
  • Guests may purchase a transfer from local airport to ship for day of sailing and from ship to local airport for day of disembarkation directly through Windstar Cruises Vacation Planners at 866-507-9406. Major City Air guests flying on dates other than the date of (dis) embarkation must arrange their own transfers unless the reason for the different date is because of the purchase of a cruise extension from Windstar Cruises. Transfers for these guests will be arranged between airport, hotel, and pier, as appropriate, so long as the transfer dates coincide with the dates of the services purchased from Windstar Cruises.

BON VOYAGE GIFTS

• • Friends and/or family may wish to send a Bon Voyage gift directly to your stateroom or suite. They should include your stateroom or suite number, the name of your ship and the sailing date.
  • To order a Bon Voyage gift, friends and family may contact Windstar Vacation Planners at 866-507-9406. Our Gift Order list includes a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, flowers, and other gifts. Orders must be prepaid and received 7 days in advance of sailing. Gift Orders may be charged to American Express®, Visa®, MasterCard® or Discover Card®. Depending on the country of embarkation, flowers may not be available 1 to 2 weeks prior to sailing. Check out the gift order form below.
• CANCELLATION POLICY
  • Each booking cancelled before 120 days prior to travel will be subject to a $50 per person cancellation fee. A full refund (except for the amounts paid for air, a Cancellation Protection Plan and the $50 per person fee) will be made for written cancellations received by Windstar Cruises at least 121 days prior to the date on which you are to commence travel by any mode of transportation booked through Windstar Cruises (sea or land, air travel is non-refundable once purchased). Guests who cancel after that date for any reason, including medical or family reasons, are subject to the following cancellation schedule:120-90 days before commencing travel – 15% of gross fare (deposit)
    89-60 days before commencing travel – 35% of gross fare
    59-30 days before commencing travel – 50% of gross fare
    29-0 days before commencing travel – 100% of gross fareGiven that the resale of canceled space will likely result in a lost opportunity to sell the space, these fees are due regardless of resale. Windstar can only be responsible for refunding amounts actually received by Windstar Cruises. Travel agencies may impose their own cancellation fees. Agency fees of any nature are a matter to be decided on solely by the agency and guests. Windstar Cruises contracts are non-transferable. Name changes and departure date changes are considered reservation cancellations/re-bookings and are subject to cancellation fees. Changes require the prior approval of Windstar and may not always be possible. Guests who purchased the Travel Protection Plan must submit a claim through Aon to receive a refund or credit of cancellation fees as determined by the insurer.If you or Windstar cancels a tour or shore excursion more than 5 business days prior to your cruise departure date, you will be issued a credit on the credit card you used to pay for your shore excursion reservation. For any cancellations less than 5 days before departure you will receive an onboard credit where your refund will show up as a credit to your shipboard account. If the credit is not fully utilized during your cruise, the balance will be credited back to your credit card by the yacht’s purser.When you embark on your cruise you will be given a shore excursion booklet and shore excursion booking form. The booking form has a cancellation deadline listed for the shore excursions for each port. If you cancel your tour reservation after the booking deadline stated in the Booking Form, a 100% cancellation fee will apply, since transportation and services will have already been arranged.
• CELL PHONE SERVICE
  • Guests may now access cell phone service both at sea and in port. At sea, both GSM and CDMA maritime roaming is available. Be sure to contact your home network prior to embarking to ensure your account is authorized to roam internationally and to confirm maritime roaming pricing. All roaming charges will be included in your monthly bill by your home carrier.In order to maintain Windstar’s atmosphere of casual elegance and intimate retreat, we ask guests to consider the following cell phone courtesy guidelines.Cell phone service is intended primarily for guests’ use in the privacy of their own stateroom or suite. Talking on cell phones is discouraged in public areas such as dining areas or lounges and guests are asked to set their phone’s ringer on vibrate when in public areas.
• CHILDREN
  • Windstar Cruises is unable to accommodate children under eight (8) years of age. Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone in their stateroom or suite who is at least 25 years old; one adult (age 25 or older) chaperone is required for every five (5) people under 21.
• COMMUNICATIONS AT SEA
  • EMAIL
    • Windstar Cruises offers full internet capabilities, depending on course and position of the ship, as well as wireless internet service on all ships. Wi-Fi access is possible in most public areas, staterooms, and suites.
  • POSTAL MAIL
    • You can receive mail while on board, but guests are discouraged from relying on postal mail.. Please call a Vacation Planner at 866-507-9406 for information on shipping options and lead times to ensure your mail arrives in time for your visit to a given port of call.
  • Phone & Fax Communications

INTERNET ACCESS

• • As part of our onboard service we offer internet access on our ships. We recently modified our internet usage packages from minutes to the amount of data used.
  • How does internet access at home differ from access at sea?
  • As with all ship communications, the internet service is operated through satellites. While you are most likely used to a fast internet connection at home, in hotels or other local Wi-Fi spots, internet at sea can be slow, and at times, disruptive. The only option available is satellite connection, which is costly and limits the amount of data used. The connection is also influenced by weather, the movement of the ship, and in the case of our sailing ships, blockage from our sails passing in front of the satellite dish.
  • It is not recommended for downloading movies or large files due to system speed. In some areas the service can be interrupted by weather or the ship’s position. We recommend that guests use the service only for emails or small files.
  • Why did the Internet Usage Plan change from minutes to megabytes?
  • Windstar modified the Internet Usage Plan in order to provide guests with the ability to access the same number of sites and/or read the same number of emails, regardless of connection speed. The previous plan was based on the number of minutes the guest was accessing the internet, regardless of connection speed. At times, factors like bad weather, ship speed, overcast conditions, all contributed to slow and/or disrupted connections.
• What is a megabyte (MB)?
  • Any file, whether it’s a spreadsheet, word document, or email, takes up electronic storage space, otherwise known as bytes. The larger the file, the greater the number of bytes. The standard increment of measurement is bytes, kilobytes (1000 bytes), megabytes (1,000,000 bytes) and gigabytes (1,000,000,000, bytes).
  • As a frame of reference, an 80-word email is around 10 kilobytes, while a typical web page is approximately 1 megabyte.
• What type of Internet Usage Plans are available?
  • The Email Plan $60
  • This plan gives you 200 MB of data to use during your cruise. This plan is recommended for people who will be checking email and doing very limited browsing. The estimated minutes range from 15 to 60.
  • The Surfing Plan $120
  • This plan gives you 500 MB of data to use for additional browsing and small file transfers (such as posting pictures to a social media site). The estimated minutes range from 90 to 360 (approximately 5 hours).The Unlimited Plan -Unlimited Internet Package
    -7 Day Cost $250
    -8 Day Cost $280
    -9 Day Cost $315
    -10 Day Cost $350
    -11 Day Cost $385
    -14 Day Cost $490
    -15 Day Cost $525This plan gives you unlimited internet access.  You have no worries about how much time you spend on the internet.
• How can I get internet access on board?
  • Guests can purchase Internet Usage Plans prior to their cruise through a Vacation Planner or on board at Reception. These plans can be used on personal laptops or smart devises that are Wi-Fi enabled.
  • Computers for public use are available on board.

CRUISE EXTENSIONS

• Extend your Windstar experience on land at a hotel that reflects our own high standards of elegance, luxury, and pampering service. The Windstar Hotel Collection includes renowned hotels that are conveniently located near the best restaurants, cultural centers, and local attractions.

CRUISE PRICES

• Your cruise price includes ocean transportation, stateroom or suite accommodations,and all meals and entertainment on board the ship. Not included, however, are items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, laundry, transfers prior to or after cruise (dis)embarkation, or optional programs or activities. You’ll also be charged separately for shore excursions, and additional conveniences or conveyances not specified in the itinerary. All rates shown are per guest based on double occupancy. Cruise prices are published in U.S. dollars.
• CUSTOMS REGISTRATION AND DUTY-FREE ALLOWANCE/IMPORT RESTRICTIONS
• Upon your return to the U.S., you must declare all merchandise purchased outside of the U.S., including items purchased in duty-free shops on board the ship or ashore. Items mailed to the U.S. are not included. These will be assessed upon arrival. Each U.S. resident is usually allowed a duty-free exemption of US$800 per guest; it may be more or less depending on your itinerary and recent travel outside the country. An additional US$1,000-worth of articles may be brought in and taxed at a reduced flat-duty rate. After an absence of 7 days or more, Canadian citizens may bring back to Canada up to CAD750 worth of duty-free merchandise, which may include a maximum of 40 ounces of liquor or wine and 200 cigarettes. These figures are based on information given at the time of publication; regulations and dollar amounts may change. All guests should check with their local Customs agencies in their home country for allowances information before departure.
• In order to avoid problems when reentering the United States, we strongly recommend that U.S. residents register their valuables with U.S. Customs before departure. You must do this at a Customs office near your home. This cannot be done at the pier prior to departure. We recommend that you register any foreign manufactured items such as cameras, lenses, jewelry, watches, binoculars, etc. with Customs prior to taking them out of the country. Otherwise, you may be required to supply proof of purchase, or to pay duty on these items upon returning to the U.S.
• Please pay particular attention to the import of animal by-products (such as furs, belts, and shoes). A complete list of banned imports is available from U.S. Customs.  www.cbp.gov

DEPARTURE TAX

• Some countries impose a departure tax on departing passengers which cannot be included on an air ticket. In most cases this is paid by each passenger upon airport check-in and may be paid in either US dollars or local currency.

DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Immediate deposit of 15% of cruise fare, hotel, and non-discountable amounts is required within 3 days of booking to secure a reservation. Final payment is due prior to 90 days before departure date.
• Your documents are usually received approximately 60 days prior to departure. Travel documents, however, are only issued after final payment has been received by Windstar. Send all payments to Windstar Cruises, 2101 4th Avenue, Suite 210, Seattle, WA 98121 U.S.A. Payment is also welcome by American Express®, Visa®, Discover®, or MasterCard®. For faster processing, please include your confirmation number on your check. All charges are in USD. Windstar is not liable for any currency exchange rate or foreign exchange fee imposed by the account holders’ bank or credit card company. Payment of the cruise deposit and Travel Protection Plan (if applicable) constitutes a binding of the Terms & Conditions.

DINING WITH WINDSTAR

• BREAKFAST
  • It is 7:30 in the morning and you awake to hear the gentle trade winds, and smell the freshly brewed Colombian coffee and buttery croissants that lure you topside to Veranda. It’s breakfast alfresco, full service or buffet-style, anytime till 9:30 a.m. No need to hurry. Or if you prefer, linger over a continental breakfast served in the privacy of your stateroom or suite. Whichever is fine with us. After all, this is what the good life is all about: doing what you please, when you please.

• LUNCH
  • Again, the choices are many in Veranda. Choose the sumptuous, seemingly endless buffet. Or, order from the lunch menu.  Please refer to your onboard Daily Program for specific times.

• DINNER
  • In the evening, we turn the spotlight to our elegant Amphora restaurant. Here, the dining room manager seats you, but where is your decision. There are no pre-assigned tables or first or second seatings. Or try the romantic candelight atmosphere of Candles. When you dine and with whom are entirely up to you. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board.  Dinner time will be printed in the ship’s daily program.
  • The evening attire onboard Windstar is specified as “casual elegance” – the emphasis weighted heavily on the casual. However, please note the dinner dress code in Amphora and Stella Bistro requests no t-shirts, shorts, jeans, hats or flip-flops. Country Club casual is acceptable for Candles.
  • The cuisine is exquisite … a unique creation of light and savory entrees using fresh native foods and tropical accents. What will it be? Pear and goat cheese salad with prosciutto? Roasted eggplant and garlic soup? Grilled ahi tuna with Asian vegetables and a ginger pink peppercorn sauce? Or perhaps a mocha and chocolate terrine with almond sauce? To all this, we add a fine selection of vintage wines.IN-ROOM DINING
    If you decide you’d like to dine in your stateroom or suite menus are available 24 hours a day. Breakfast menu from 6 – 11 a.m., lunch from noon – 10 p.m., dinner menu from Amphora served during their open hours and an overnight menu available 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

DISEMBARKATION PROCEDURES

• • You will be advised of current requirements and be given complete instructions on disembarkation procedures during your cruise.
• FARES, NON-DISCOUNTABLE AMOUNT, GRATUITIES, TAXES, FEES, PORT EXPENSES AND SURCHARGES
  
  • Windstar Cruises reserves the right not to honor any published prices that it determines were erroneous due to printing, electronic, or clerical error. Each cruise fare includes a Non-Discountable Amount. That portion of the fare is both non-commissionable to travel professionals and not subject to reduction in the event of a percentage discount promotion, 2-for-1 promotion, or otherwise. If cost factors dictate the need for fare increases, Windstar Cruises may do so at any time prior to departure. Guests can cancel (without paying a cancellation fee) rather than accept a fare increase. Suggested onboard gratuities are extra.Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses, as used by us, may include, without limitation, all or a portion of all fees, charges, tolls and taxes imposed on us by governmental or quasi-governmental authorities, as well as third party fees and charges arising from a vessel’s presence in a harbor or port. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses may include U.S. Customs fees, head taxes, Panama Canal or other canal tolls, passenger facilities charges, dockage fees, wharfage fees, inspection fees, pilotage, air taxes, hotel or VAT taxes incurred as part of a land tour, immigration and naturalization fees, and Internal Revenue Service fees, as well as fees for navigation, berthing, stevedoring, baggage handling/storage and security services. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses may be assessed per passenger, per berth, per ton or per vessel. Assessments calculated on a per ton or per vessel basis will be spread over the number of passengers on the Ship. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses are subject to change and we reserve the right to collect any increases in effect at the time of sailing even if the fare has already been paid in full. Windstar Cruises reserves the right to impose or pass through fuel surcharges, security surcharges, or similar incidental surcharges. No right of cancellation exists under these circumstances.Shipboard Account and Currency Exchange
    Our cashless society is designed to make your life on board as simple as possible. When you board the yacht, your account has already been activated and you may make purchases by simply showing your guest identification and signing a receipt. On embarkation day, you will need to register your credit card (Visa®, Discover®, Mastercard®, American Express®) in order to use your onboard account for shipboard purchases. We do not accept debit cards or prepaid cards. Your card will be pre-authorized for US $60 per guest per day for each day of your cruise. At the end of your cruise, you will receive a final statement and your card will be charged only for the actual amount of your purchases.Please inform your credit card issuer in advance that your card will be used on a Windstar ship. This will help prevent delays in obtaining pre-authorization on board. Products and services on board are in US dollars. Windstar is not liable for any foreign exhcange fees imposed by your card issuer. There are no currency exchange services offered on board.Hotel Service Charge and Beverage Service Charge
    Our crew works very hard to make sure that every aspect of your cruise meets the highest standards. This includes those crew members who serve you directly, such as wait staff, beverage servers, and the stewards who service your stateroom or suite each day. There are also many others who support their efforts whom you may never meet, such as galley and laundry staff. To ensure that the efforts of all of our crew members are recognized and rewarded, a Hotel Service Charge of $12 per passenger per day is automatically added to each guest’s onboard account. For all cruises embarking from January 1, 2018 on, the Hotel Service Charge will be $13.50 per guest per day. If our service exceeds or fails to meet your expectations, you are free to adjust this amount at the end of the cruise. In addition, a 15% Beverage Service Charge is automatically added to bar charges and dining room wine purchases. These charges are paid entirely to Windstar crew members, and represent an important part of their compensation.

    In terminals, airports, ports of call, and on shore excursions, we suggest that you extend gratuities consistent with customary local practices.

• European Value Added Tax (VAT)
  Important V.A.T. (Value Added Tax) Notice: Select cruise itineraries which visit only European Union (EU), member country ports, are subject to value-added tax (VAT) for services and merchandise purchased on board the cruise.  Windstar Cruises is required by law to charge VAT on all beverage purchases including beverage packages purchased onboard, Internet Packages, WindSpa retail items, photo purchases, and durable goods purchased in the Gift Shop. VAT rates range from 20% – 24% based on EU country. Onboard items purchased as part of the cruise fare and paid for prior to the start of the cruise, such as Beverage Packages, Internet Packages and other items are exempt from VAT. Please contact Windstar Reservations for additional information.In Scope – Subject to VAT
  Onboard purchases of the following:
• Gift Shop durables, including consignment goods when sold
• Internet – Purchase onboard
• Photo
• SPA Retail (Concessionaire – Steiner)
• Beverages Sold Onboard – including Beverage package (Portugal & Spain)

Out of Scope – Exempt from VAT

• Gift Shop consumables; amenities and food items
• Laundry – Pre-purchased at time of booking and onboard sales
• Spa Product & Services (Concessionaire – Steiner
• Internet Package – Pre-purchased at time of booking
• Beverages Package – Pre-purchased at time of booking

FOOD ALLERGIES AND SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS

• Here at Windstar we are committed to offering our guests healthy food selections. We offer vegetarian selections and lighter fare options, seeking to provide the freshest, top quality foods handled with the utmost care. If you have food allergies or special dietary needs, there are several ways to notify us prior to boarding the ship.It’s important to let us know about your special request when you book your cruise to help us plan and prepare for your meals.  Your travel professional will enter this information in Special Requests. It is then noted on your booking and your ship will be notified, although it will not appear on your invoice or in My Windstar.Special Request Dietary Needs include:
  Alcohol Free
  Celiac
  Dairy Free
  Diabetic – Diet Controlled
  Diabetic – Insulin Controlled
  Food Allergy
  Gluten Free
  Lactose Intolerant
  Low Carbohydrate
  Low Cholesterol
  Low Protein
  Low Sodium
  Other Dietary
  Sugar Free
  Vegan
  Vegetarian
  Wheat Free Diet

GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES

• Windstar does not discriminate against persons on the basis of disability. We seek, to the extent feasible, to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. There are no elevators on Wind Star and Wind Spirit nor were the ships originally constructed to be wheelchair accessible. As a result, these ships may be unsuitable for people relying solely on wheelchairs. The other yachts are equipped with elevators, but staterooms on Wind Surf are not wheelchair accessible. Also note, there is no elevator access to board the ship. Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend have modified wheelchair accessible suites available.
• Certain ports require the ship to anchor; in this case guests must be ferried into port. Service Dogs are permitted onboard ships if prior arrangements have been made at time of booking. In limited situations where an individual with a disability would be unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services, we may find it necessary to ask the individual to make alternative travel arrangements. It is essential that Windstar is notified of any special medical, physical or other requirements you may have at the time of booking.

HOTEL SERVICE CHARGE

• Our crew works very hard to make sure that every aspect of your cruise meets the highest standards. This includes those crew members who serve you directly, such as wait staff, beverage servers and the stewards who service your stateroom or suite each day. There are also many others who support their efforts whom you may never meet, such as galley and laundry staff. To ensure that  the efforts of all of our crew members are recognized and rewarded, a Hotel Service Charge of $13.50 per guest per day is automatically added to each guest’s onboard account. If our service exceeds or fails to meet your expectations, you are free to adjust this amount at the end of the cruise.  These charges are paid entirely to Windstar crew members and represent an important part of their compensation.

IMMUNIZATION

• It is always wise to check with your personal physician or travel medicine clinic for the latest travel recommendations. Visiting certain foreign countries may require that you be inoculated prior to leaving the United States. Please check with the nearest office of U.S. Customs or the U.S. Department of State in order to determine whether you will need a visa and/or inoculations.
  A list of travel destinations and inoculations required can also be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

LATE BOOKING POLICY

• On bookings within 45 days of departure, Windstar Cruises requires final payment before the process of requesting air or hotel space. On bookings within 14 days of departure, we are unable to make air or hotel transfers or arrangements.

LUGGAGE SHIPPING SERVICE

• If you have lots of luggage and are worried about traveling with heavy suitcases and clearing customs, you may want to try our optional luggage shipping service. Your bags will be picked up from home and delivered directly aboard your ship and then sent back once you’re ready to go home. Thanks to our partnership with Luggage Forward, you just board your flight and meet your bags at your destination.

MAJOR CITY AIR PROGRAM

• Windstar Cruises is pleased to offer air/sea packages featuring round trip economy-class airline transportation between many U.S. and Canadian cities and your cruise. Optional transfers from the airport to ship are available on sailing day and return after the cruise. To take advantage of this package, which is offered at an additional charge to your cruise fare, simply ask your travel professional to request it when you reserve your stateroom or suite. Current add-on costs are available from Windstar Cruises Vacation Planners and are subject to change. All gateways may not be available for each itinerary. Please call for a rate quote and 866-507-9406.
• Windstar Cruises will provide an airline ticket between major cities and the nearest airport to the cruise port using the carriers, routing, and structure of our choice. We reserve the right to utilize commuter and/or charter air service without prior notice. The airfares we use are based on capacity controlled, promotional, and group fares. The cost of the basic add-on quoted does not include confirmation of requests for specific carriers, routing, or en route stopovers. Air schedules are generally available approximately 60 days prior to departure. Windstar Cruises reserves the right to withdraw air/sea availability without prior notice for any product at any time.

MEDICAL FACILITIES, INFANTS, AND PREGNANCY POLICY

• A doctor and limited medical facilities are available on board. However, if you take special medications, please bring an adequate supply with you together with a copy of the prescription from your doctor; it may not be available on board. Medical services and all medicines (except acetaminophen, aspirin, and seasickness pills) dispensed by the ship’s doctor will be charged to your onboard account. If you become ill during the voyage and the physician is unable to care for your needs on board, you will be transferred to medical facilities on shore. Shoreside medical care and/or evacuation are not charged to your onboard account. You will be responsible for paying all of these charges.
• If you will require a special medical apparatus or assistance on board or have any special medical, physical or other requirements, please contact our Vacation Planners Department at 866-507-9406. Due to limited medical facilities, we will not accept reservations for children under 8 years of age or women who are 24 or more weeks pregnant at the time their travel with Windstar concludes.

PACKING ADVICE

• The less you bring the better. We suggest clothes that are light, cool, and made of natural fabrics like cotton and silk. You may wish to bring warmer clothing (layers are best), if you are traveling on an Ocean Crossing or an autumn Mediterranean cruise.
• The tone for dinner and evening aboard is one of “casual elegance.” Imaginative, yet relaxed. Stylish, yet comfortable. Just as you would dress on your own private yacht. For ladies, sundresses, slacks, and informal cocktail dresses are appropriate. For men, we suggest slacks and collared shirts or polos. There are no formal nights, no costume parties, no requirements for suits and ties. However, if your cruise takes you to Monte Carlo, please note that casinos require men to wear both a jacket and tie. Our only restriction is that shorts, jeans, flip-flops, hats, and t-shirts not be worn in AmphorA, Stella Bistro, or public rooms during the evening. Country Club Casual is acceptable for Candles.For those guests traveling to Alaska, it’s important to wear the right gear. We have partnered with the leading expedition outfitter to offer an online Alaska clothing and accessories service that ships directly to your ship.

PASSENGERS UNDER 21

• Passengers under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 25 years old. One adult chaperone is required for every 5 people under 21. Parents, guardians, and chaperones are responsible for overseeing the onboard conduct of minors. Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under age 21.

PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION

• PASSPORTS
  • Guests of Windstar Cruises are required to carry a valid passport. All passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
  • The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security have announced the official requirements for citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to present a valid passport to enter the United States when arriving by air from any part of the Western Hemisphere. A VALID PASSPORT IS REQUIRED FOR ALL TRAVEL (AIR, SEA OR LAND) INTO OR OUT OF THE U.S.
  • For more information, please visit travel.state.govor call the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778. Foreign nationals should contact their respective governments to obtain details regarding current passport requirements. Expired passports are not acceptable.
• VISAS
  As you are preparing for your upcoming cruise, there may be some countries on your itinerary that require a visa in addition to your passport to enter the country. As with any other type of travel you do, it is your responsibility to obtain and have available the proper passport and visa(s) necessary for each country you will visit. It is extremely important that you have all the necessary travel documents before you arrive at the ship. Boarding may be denied if you arrive without the proper travel documentation, and the unfortunate result would be that, not only would you miss the cruise you’ve been waiting for, but you would also not be eligible for a refund.
  • As documentation requirements vary, please review your itinerary and verify your specific travel requirements. Travel requirements change periodically, so it is advisable to check with a visa service or the country consulate at least six (6) weeks prior to your cruise date to verify you have all the necessary travel documentation.  If you are a US citizen, you should check first with the State Department. Non-US citizens should check with your country’s consulate, as regulations vary.When to Obtain A Visa
    We encourage you to obtain your visa as early as possible to prevent any stressful interruptions. Visa processing varies by destination and submission location. It may also take longer during peak seasons or if embassies are closed. There are also additional associated costs to obtain these documents.Multiple Entries: Different ports of call in the same country do not constitute a separate entry unless the ship visits a different country in between.Visa Service Provider
    As a courtesy, Windstar Cruises provides information about visa service providers. Visa service providers assist users with the collection of necessary documents. They guide clients through the process, and help with the logistics of working with foreign Entry/Exit Bureaus. If you decide to use a visa service provider be sure to advise them that you are traveling with Windstar Cruises and that you will be traveling by sea, as visa requirements may be different than for air travel.  VisaCentral and Generations Visa are two such visa service providers who can give you additional information and assistance. Please note that these visa service providers are not affiliated with Windstar Cruises in any way and their services are provided at an additional cost.At your earliest convenience you are encouraged to contact your travel professional, your State Department or local visa service for assistance in determining which visas will be required for your specific cruise.
• VISA WAIVER PROGRAM
  All Visa Waiver Program travelers are required to obtain an electronic travel authorization prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Please note that boarding may be denied to travelers from VWP countries that do not have machine-readable passports.
  • It is your responsibility to determine and fulfill the passport and visa requirements applicable to your travel situation. Questions regarding current regulations can be directed to your travel professional. Boarding may be denied and fines may be levied against those guests without proper documentation. Payment of any fines levied is the responsibility of the individual guest.
  • While the Russian Federation requires visas for visiting American and Canadian citizens, there is an exclusion for guests traveling with an escorted cruise group. If you plan to explore St. Petersburg on your own, a visa is required and must be obtained before departure. If, however, you have chosen to take part in one of our escorted shore excursions, a visa is not required. Your passport is sufficient documentation for boarding your yacht. It is always advisable to check with your State Department or travel professional if you are unsure.

PETS AND SERVICE DOGS

• Animals or pets are not allowed with the exception of qualified Service Dogs for guests with disabilities. Please notify your travel professional at time of booking if you intend to board with a Service Dog.What is a Service Dog?At Windstar Cruises a Service Dog is defined as a dog that is personally trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a guest with a disability. There are many different acceptable conditions for using a service dog such as guiding a blind person, pulling a wheelchair, or alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, and other special tasks as defined in Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A Service Dog is not a pet.Are pets, Service Dogs in Training or Emotional Support Dogs considered Service Dogs?Service Dogs do not include pets or Service Dogs in Training. Nor are Emotional Support Dogs considered Service Dogs based on a decision by the U.S. Department of Justice. None of these animals will be able to sail with Windstar Cruises.

  What do guests need to do to meet the requirements to bring a Service Dog on board a Windstar yacht?

  1.       Allow at least a year of planning in order to get a Service Dog certified, especially if the guest is visiting more than one country.
  2.       Contact the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) they will be visiting for information on the policies and requirements of the country.
  3.       Contact the Department or Ministry of Agriculture in their destination country (including U.S. travel) as many ports of call have strict entry requirements for animals.
  4.       Obtain health and rabies certificates from their veterinarian.  Have these documents notarized and certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or Similar authority in residing country.
  5.       Obtain a good health letter from their veterinarian on letterhead stating their Service Dog is in good health and current on all vaccines.
  6.       Obtain a letter from their personal physician also on letterhead, stating that they require the assistance of a Service Dog and for what reason(s).
  7.       Outfit their Service Dog with recognizable gear as a way to let people know that their dog is an official Service Dog. For example a jacket or vest or guide dog-type harness with words on the side like Service Dog or Guide Dog.
  8.       Make sure they hand carry all these documents, not pack them in their luggage. They will be asked to submit these records prior to boarding.
  9.       All guests traveling with service animals must book at least 60 days in advance to allow time for Windstar Cruises to review documents and approve the Service Dog request in writing.

  What additional information do guests need to know?

  1.       Only one Service Dog can be accommodated per (suite/stateroom) or (person).
  2.       The dog’s breed and the size restrictions of our ships may limit the Service Dogs we can accept.
  3.       A sand/ relief box will be provided.
  4.       Windstar Cruises will do our best to assist guests and they should contact our Reservation Department at 1-877-203-5279 to make sure both they and Windstar Cruises have all the additional information needed.

  What happens on board?

  1.       Service Dogs are permitted to accompany guests with a disability in all public areas, including dining venues.
  2.       Service Dogs must be on a leash, harness or other restraining device in public areas.
  3.       Service Dogs are not permitted in pools, whirlpools or spas.
  4.       The care and supervision of Service Dogs is the sole responsibility of the owner. Ships are not required nor do they have the capacity to provide food or care for Service Dogs.
  5.       Owners may bring a reasonable quantity of food and bowls for their Service Dog at no additional charge.
  6.       If a guest wishes to disembark at a port that does not allow their Service Dog, the guest must make arrangements for the dog on board to ensure the dog is cared for.  The ship’s staff is not able to care for the dog and the Service Dog may not be left unattended in the guest’s suite/stateroom.
  7.       Owners of Service Dogs are responsible for the behavior or damage caused by their Service Dog. A cleaning fee may be assessed if necessary.
  8.       If a Service Dog’s behavior creates a distraction, such as growling, barking excessively, initiating unsolicited contact, biting, failing to use the designated relief area, sitting on furniture, eating from the table, etc., the dog may be denied boarding or removed from the ship along with the owner, at the owner’s expense.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

• Windstar will carry as baggage only your personal effects consisting of wearing apparel, toilet articles and similar items for your wearing, comfort or convenience during the Cruise and not belonging to or intended for use by any other person or for sale. Radioactive materials, controlled substances (other than lawfully obtained prescription drugs), firearms, ammunition, weapons, fireworks, aerial drones, and illicit or hazardous materials are strictly prohibited.

RECONFIRMING AIRLINE RESERVATIONS

• Please review your air and cruise documents to ensure that your tickets are correct. We recommend that you call the airline 72 hours prior to your departure time to reconfirm your flight. (These are international flights, and departure times may change without prior notice.) Plan to check in at the airline ticket counter at least 3 hours before flight time for international passport/security checks. For post-cruise departures please allow at least 4 hours between the ship’s debarkation and your flight departure.

SHIPS’ REGISTRY AND TRADEMARKS

• All Windstar Cruises Ships are registered in the Bahamas and owned by Windstar Cruises Marshall Islands, LLC.Yacht ownership and registry are subject to change.
• Non-Windstar Services (such as airlines and other off-ship transportation carriers, shore excursions, meals, accommodations, air ambulance, and shoreside physicians) are generally performed by independent contractors. Those Non-Windstar Services that are performed by independent contractors are solely at your risk and subject to the terms or arrangements made by you or on your behalf with the independent contractor furnishing the Non-Windstar Service. Windstar Cruises assumes no responsibility with respect to these Non-Windstar Services (including delay, injury, death, or damage to property) even though it may collect monies or make arrangements for the services.
• Situations may arise that, in the opinion of Windstar Cruises, make it necessary for Windstar to cancel, advance, or postpone a scheduled departure, change itineraries, or make substitutions involving ports of call, other travel components, vessels, or other modes of transportation. These situations may include, by way of example, concerns regarding weather conditions, issues involving safety matters, alternative business arrangements or charters resulting in the decision to withdraw a sailing from public sale, or requirements of governmental authorities. If this should occur, Windstar does not assume responsibility or liability for any losses, inconvenience, or expenses incurred by guests as a result. Your full cruise fare will be refunded, however, if the cruise is cancelled prior to initial embarkation.
• Windstar has registered trademarks in the United States and various foreign countries for the names and phrases Windstar®, 180º from Ordinary®, 180 Degrees from Ordinary®, Romance Under Sail®, Luxury As You Like It® and the Windstar logo.

SERVICES ON BOARD

• ELECTRIC APPLIANCES
  • Voltage is standard 110/220 on all Windstar ships.  Special converters are needed using the Europlug (two round pins) standard. Guests will need to bring their own travel adaptors as they are not available on board. For your convenience, there is a hair dryer in each stateroom or suite. There are only 110v US plugs on Wind Spirit.
• VALUABLES
  • Each stateroom or suite is equipped with a built-in safe for storing valuables and important documents.
• LAUNDRY SERVICES
  • Laundry service is provided on board at a nominal charge. Dry cleaning is not available. Laundry Service Packages must be added by the first day of the cruise and will be priced by the total number of cruise days.  Pricing is inclusive of applicable taxes.
• SPECIAL OCCASIONS ON BOARD
  • Windstar Cruises will be happy to help you plan an onboard celebration. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, renewing your wedding vows, or just want to pamper yourself, call our Vacation Planning department at 866-507-9406 to make arrangements. If you should decide to give an impromptu party during the cruise, contact the Hotel Manager for onboard assistance.

SMOKING POLICY

• Smoking or vaping is not permitted in any of the staterooms, suites, or public spaces, including all restaurants and corridors. Smoking and vaping is permitted on the outside decks in designated smoking areas only.

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

• Activities are a world apart from those offered on other cruise ships. On board you may wish to participate in a scheduled activity or just relax; the choice is yours. In port you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most intriguing places in the world.
• Windstar has selected custom-designed tours to help you explore each port to the fullest extent (not included in the cruise fare). In Europe, each port beckons you to discover its history and culture: explore ancient ruins, view masterful art, tour grand architecture or sample wines from the finest vineyards.
• In the Caribbean and Costa Rica adventure awaits: snorkeling or SCUBA diving, helicopter flight-seeing, a catamaran or boat cruise, walks along secluded beaches, and rainforest hikes. In the South Pacific you can see the islands by 4×4, check out a black pearl farm, or kayak the river.
• You may also want to take advantage of our Watersports Platform from which you may enjoy various scheduled activities such as windsurfing or water skiing while at anchor. In certain ports SCUBA diving is offered for an additional fee through local dive operators.

TRANSFERS/PRE- & POST- CRUISE SERVICES

• Services for Windstar Cruises cruise-only guests (individuals who do not purchase air transportation or cruise extensions from Windstar Cruises) begin with embarkation at the noted time in your cruise documents. Any transfers, meals, and dayroom accommodations required prior to this time are the responsibility of the guest. Please make a note of this, as many international flights arrive several hours prior to the scheduled embarkation time.
• Guests may purchase a transfer from local airport to ship for day of sailing and from ship to local airport for day of disembarkation directly through Windstar Cruises Vacation Planners at 866-507-9406.

TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN

• Full Sail Travel Protection PlanIn life, you never really know what may happen. Windstar’s Full Sail Travel Protection Plan offers guests the opportunity to help protect against cancellation losses or unexpected events that may arise while traveling.IMPORTANT NOTICEFor guests with voyages that include New Caledonia.  The authorities in New Caledonia have advised that travelers/guests are now required to have travel insurance that covers both medical expenses and repatriation costs in order to enter into New Caledonia.  To guarantee that you do not encounter any problems while traveling we encourage you to obtain appropriate travel insurance for your trip.For U.S. and Canadian guests, Windstar’s travel protection can be purchased and added to your reservation up to 90 days prior to the start of your vacation.  Our plan provides coverage for trip delays, trip interruptions, medical expenses, repatriation expense and other protections.

VALUE ADDED TAX

• Important V.A.T. (Value Added Tax) Tax Notice: Select cruise itineraries which visit only European Union (EU), member country ports, are subject to value-added tax (VAT) for services and merchandise purchased on board the cruise.  Windstar Cruises is required by law to charge VAT on all beverage purchases including beverage packages purchased onboard, Internet Packages, WindSpa retail items, photo purchases, and durable goods purchased in the Gift Shop. VAT rates range from 20% – 24% based on EU country. Onboard items purchased as part of the cruise fare and paid for prior to the start of the cruise, such as Beverage Packages, Internet Packages and other items are exempt from VAT. Please contact Windstar Reservations for additional information.
• In Scope – Subject to VAT
• Onboard purchases of the following:
• Gift Shop durables, including consignment goods when sold
• Internet – Purchase on board
• Photo
• SPA Retail (Concessionaire – Steiner)
• Beverages Sold On board – including Beverage package (Portugal & Spain)
• Out of Scope – Exempt from VAT
• Gift Shop consumables; amenities and food items
• Laundry – Pre-purchased at time of booking and onboard sales
• Spa Product & Services (Concessionaire – Steiner)
• Internet Package – Pre-purchased at time of booking
• Beverages Package – Pre-purchased at time of booking