Star Legend Review
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Star Legend Overview
For years, Windstar Cruises had been a fleet of three majestic motor-sail yachts: Wind Surf, Wind Star and Wind Spirit. But in 2014–2015, the line doubled in size when it purchased a trio of 212-passenger luxury yachts from Seabourn. Star Legend is one of those yachts, and Windstar applied $8.5 million in upgrades to the ship before it joined the fleet. Cabins, restaurants and all public spaces benefited from the refresh.
Windstar's vibe of laid-back luxury carries over from the sailing ships to the yachts. The intimacy of the ship means that the crew -- especially the stewards, wait staff and bartenders -- get to know you and anticipate your requests. The staff is friendly and will ask how you'd prefer to be addressed -- not defaulting to "Mr. or Mrs. So-and-So," as is often the case on the luxury lines. The ship's ambiance is relaxed but classy, with casual attire recommended during the day and resort casual in the evenings. The freedom of no formal night means travelers don't have to pack too much.
Star Legend offers an "almost luxury" experience, just like its fleetmates. Your cruise fare isn't all-inclusive like it is aboard the ships of SeaDream, Regent Seven Seas or Silversea. Nonalcoholic beverages (soda, water, specialty teas and coffee drinks) are included, but you'll need to buy a beverage package or pay a la carte for any alcoholic beverages that you order. You'll likewise pay for all shore excursions. All dining options, including the intimate Candles, are surcharge-free.
Experienced Windstar cruisers will note some significant differences between the motor-sail-yachts and Star Legend. For starters, this is more of a traditional cruise ship and that means the cabins are larger than those on the sailing ships. In comparison, they feel downright spacious with walk-in closets, a marble bathroom and a shower/tub combo (aside from a few shower-only cabins), and either large picture windows or a French balcony. There are also elevators (not found on Wind Star and Wind Spirit), which makes this ship more appropriate for those with compromised mobility (however, be aware that there is no way to initially board the ship other than a gangway.)
Windstar's port-intensive itineraries are a major selling point to many passengers who select their voyage based on the destinations Windstar visits. Star Legend isn't the type of ship where travelers stay aboard all day when the ship is in port. They get out there and explore -- either as part of a ship-sponsored shore excursion or on their own.
As with Windstar's sailing ships, the line's tradition of playing Vangelis' heroic "1492" theme song (from the film of the same name) extends to Star Legend -- although the crew hoists flags on Legend instead of those big beautiful sails found on Wind Surf, Wind Star and Wind Spirit.
Fellow Passengers
Star Legend attracts well-to-do professional couples in their 40s and 50s, as well as active retirees in their 60s and 70s who enjoy meeting fellow passengers and partaking in pastimes such as water sports from the ship's aft marina. It also appeals to older and less mobile folks who need to make use of the elevator (not found on Wind Spirit or Wind Star). The majority of passengers are American or Canadian, though you might find contingents from places like Australia and Mexico.
Windstar Star Legend Dress Code
One of Windstar's hallmarks is its ability to offer luxury in a laid-back atmosphere. There is no daytime dress code: Shorts, jeans, T-shirts and capris are all fair game and underscore the overall casual vibe of the ship.
In the evening, bank on "elegantly casual" attire such as sundresses, blouses and slacks for ladies, and slacks and collared shirts for men. Jeans, T-shirts, shorts and sneakers are prohibited in the restaurants at dinner. There are no formal nights on Windstar, though they do throw deck barbecues that allow shorts and more casual attire.
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Awards and Recognition
Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice
- 2018 Best for Cabins
- 2018 Best for Dining
- 2018 Best for Embarkation
- 2018 Best for Public Rooms
- 2018 Best for Service
- 2018 Best for Value
- 2017 Best Overall
- 2017 Best for Cabins
- 2017 Best for Embarkation
- 2017 Best for Entertainment
- 2017 Best for Fitness & Recreation
- 2017 Best for Public Rooms
- 2017 Best for Value
Windstar Star Legend Member Reviews
Windstar Cruises Fleet
The 148-passenger Wind Spirit sails French Polynesia year-round; its small size, stellar service and water sports marina make you feel like you're on a private yacht.
Four-masted ship carries 148 passengers; it offers a casually elegant vibe, fine dining, excellent service, water sports and a focus on off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Windstar's biggest ship carries just 310 passengers; the five-masted vessel is truly romantic with alfresco dining options, cozy cabins and water sports from the ship.
Ship highlights include suites with expansive bathrooms and large walk-in closets, great ocean views throughout, an impressive spa menu and an expanded top deck.
Windstar's Star Legend offers an "almost luxury" experience and a laid-back vibe; you'll find larger cabins and elevators not found on its sister ships with sails.
Windstar's 212-passenger Star Breeze is a yacht-style small cruise ship with a casual ambiance, spacious cabins and multiple lounges -- but no full-size pool.