Windstar’s New Voyage: Star Seeker to Debut on Alaska and Japan Routes in 2026
Windstar Cruises, a leader in boutique yacht experiences, has announced the upcoming launch of its new ship, the Star Seeker, marking a thrilling return to the majestic landscapes of Alaska and the vibrant shores of Japan starting in 2026.
This move comes after a three-year pause, with bookings opening in August 2024 for eager travelers.
The Star Seeker, designed as a 224-passenger yacht, is currently being crafted at the WestSEA shipyard in Portugal and is set to debut in December 2025. It will embark on its inaugural season in Alaska, offering varied cruises of 7, 10, and 11 days starting from May 2026.
The journeys will traverse from Juneau or Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia, incorporating pre- and post-cruise land tours that include a visit to the renowned Denali National Park.
Following its Alaskan voyages, the Star Seeker will shift its course towards Japan. From late August through November 2026, the ship will offer 10-day Grand Japan cruises that explore the route from Tokyo to Osaka.
These itineraries promise an immersive experience in Japanese culture with stops in lesser-known ports like Tomatsu and Tomonaura, as well as the famous cities of Nagasaki and Kagoshima.
Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises, expressed enthusiasm about the reintroduction of these popular destinations. “We are really happy to be able to bring back Alaska and Japan for our guests. We know these popular destinations, and we have many people asking us to return there,” Prelog stated.
The Star Seeker will not only cruise through scenic vistas but also offer Signature Expeditions which include guided hiking, kayaking, and skiff tours.
These expeditions aim to provide guests with an intimate connection to the natural beauty of regions like Alaska’s Misty Fjords.
Onboard, expedition leaders will enhance the journey with presentations on local history, culture, and wildlife, making the experience both enlightening and memorable.
The ship itself boasts 112 luxury suites, each featuring full private verandas and infinity windows. The two Owner’s Suites offer exclusive wrap-around balconies with stunning views, ideally situated at the rear of the ship.
The Star Seeker will also be equipped with ice-strengthened hulls, advanced safety and navigation systems, and environmentally friendly technology such as Rolls Royce tier III Nox-rated engines.
In addition to exploring natural wonders, guests can enjoy familiar Windstar amenities such as the Watersports Platform, Yacht Club café, a state-of-the-art spa, and deck barbecues, ensuring a comfortable and engaging travel experience.
With the addition of Star Seeker and its sister ship, Star Explorer, also under construction and set for delivery in December 2026, Windstar Cruises will expand its boutique fleet to eight ships. This expansion signifies Windstar’s commitment to providing unique and enriching travel experiences to its guests.
