Cruises

Star Explorer: World Explorer Conversion Underway at West Sea Shipyard

The World Explorer, a 2019-built 8,000-ton vessel, is undergoing a significant transformation at West Sea shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, to debut with Windstar Cruises on Dec. 28, 2026. The ship will be renamed Star Explorer and converted from expedition cruising to a luxury vessel, featuring new public areas including Basil + Bamboo Restaurant and two 74-square-meter Horizon Owner's Suites. The inaugural season will offer seven- to nine-night Mediterranean cruises from homeports in Spain and Italy.