Windstar Cruises has started a US$18 million refurbishment of its three sailing cruise ships, Wind Surf, Wind Star and Wind Spirit, as part of a ‘Full Sail Ahead’ strategic initiative, encompassing refurbishment, branding, technology investments and product upgrades over the next 18 months. This comes in the wake of Windstar’s recent acquisition by Xanterra Parks & Resorts, after its financially-strapped previous owner, Ambassadors International, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last April.
The first ship to receive attention is Wind Surf (1989/14,745gt), which is undergoing a refit at the Lisnave Drydock in Portugal until 10 December, when she sails for the Caribbean. All cabins and corridors are being refurbished, with the public spaces being tackled in autumn 2012.
Wind Star (1986/5,703gt) and Wind Spirit (1988/5,736gt) will undergo a complete refurbishment of cabins, corridors and public areas, including The Restaurant, Veranda, Lounge, WindSpa, Library, Reception and Pool Bar. These works are due to be completed on 15 April and 29 April 2012 respectively, as both vessels begin their summer season in the Mediterranean.
