Windstar Cruises: Winter in Europe’s Rivieras & Croatia

Itinerary: Barcelona to Venice
Sailing: Date: 08 Jan 2025
Ship: Star Legend
Author: Amanda Savill, Director, Savvy Travel Limited

Our family’s recent adventure aboard Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend from Barcelona to Venice was a delightful winter escape filled with unforgettable experiences. The 15-day “Star Collector: Winter in Europe’s Rivieras & Croatia” itinerary, which began on January 8, 2025, took us on a journey through some of the Mediterranean’s most captivating destinations.

Embarking on Our Mediterranean Adventure

As we boarded the Star Legend in Barcelona, we were immediately struck by the intimate atmosphere of the ship. With only 312 guests, it felt more like a private yacht than a typical cruise liner. The staff’s warm welcome set the tone for the exceptional service we would experience throughout our voyage.

Family-Friendly Cruising

Despite Windstar not offering specific children’s programs, our 13-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son found plenty to keep them entertained. The ship’s open bridge policy was a hit with the kids, who were fascinated by the navigation equipment and loved chatting with the officers. My parents, joining us on this multigenerational trip, appreciated the relaxed pace and the opportunity to spend quality time with their grandchildren.

Exploring Mediterranean Gems

Our itinerary was a perfect blend of iconic cities and charming coastal towns. Highlights included:

Strolling through Nice’s colorful old town and along the Promenade des Anglais

Marveling at the Renaissance architecture in Florence during our stop in Livorno

Exploring the ancient ruins of Rome and indulging in authentic Italian cuisine

Admiring the stunning Amalfi Coast views from Naples

The ship’s small size allowed us to dock in ports that larger cruise ships can’t access, giving us a more authentic experience in each destination. Visiting these popular European sights during the winter season was particularly advantageous, as the crowds were significantly smaller, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive experience.

Signature Sailaway Experience

One of the most memorable moments of our journey was Windstar’s signature sailaway event. As we departed each port, guests gathered on deck to toast the beginning of our next adventure. The iconic music of “1492: Conquest of Paradise” filled the air, creating a truly cinematic experience reminiscent of a pirate’s life. It was a moment that left us all with goosebumps and a sense of adventure.

Onboard Life

We spent many enjoyable hours in the Yacht Club, where we worked on puzzles together as a family. It was a great way to relax and bond over a shared activity. We also attended a cooking show, which was both entertaining and informative. The crew talent show was another highlight, showcasing the staff’s skills beyond their regular duties.

Fitness and Wellness

The fully equipped gym on the Star Legend became a regular haunt for us. With a variety of machines, including treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights, it was easy to maintain our fitness routine while at sea. My mother also enjoyed the complimentary morning yoga classes, which were a great way to start the day.

Culinary Delights

The dining experiences onboard were exceptional. From the regionally inspired dishes in the main restaurant to the romantic outdoor setting of Candles, every meal was a treat. The kids even expanded their palates, trying new dishes alongside familiar favorites.

Lasting Memories

As our journey concluded in Venice, we reflected on the incredible memories we’d made. From playing card games with grandparents to exploring historic European cities, this Windstar cruise provided the perfect setting for our family to reconnect and create lasting bonds.

While Windstar may not cater specifically to children, we found it to be an excellent choice for our multigenerational family vacation. The intimate atmosphere, attentive service, and carefully curated itinerary allowed each family member to find their own joy in the journey, making it a truly unforgettable Mediterranean adventure.