We chose this cruise for the small ship experience. It also called at ports not available with larger ships. It was our first cruise with Windstar. While it would have been interesting to explore Vancouver before the cruise, we scheduled air the same day as embarkation. Embarkation was smooth although delayed due to loading and unloading of supplies and waste.Disembarkation was also slightly delayed, although announcements were clear.

The ship was in good condition with maintenance occurring continuously as the cruise proceeded. This was only a problem when painting and varnishing occurred in the vicinity of the public areas, particularly the Yacht Club (the room above the bridge with great views, puzzles and games as well as snacks, sandwiches and barista service), where the smell was unpleasant.

We had chosen a lower cost cabin back in February and received an upgrade before the cruise started. The cabin was spacious (compared to our only other experience on a Costa Mediterranea cruise). Fresh fruit, bottled water and chocolates were provided every day (if you had eaten them, otherwise the old ones were left). Cabin service was very good with the stewards calling us by name every day. Announcements were very weak in the cabin until the dial was set on any other position than the one selected by the stewards. Read more