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Windstar Cruises Expands to River-Ocean Voyages
New hybrid cruise itineraries blend river and ocean experiences.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:29pm
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Windstar Cruises' new hybrid river-ocean voyages aim to transport travelers to diverse destinations through a seamless blend of waterborne experiences.Today in MiamiWindstar Cruises, a leader in small ship cruising, has announced the launch of a new line of river-to-ocean cruise itineraries that will allow passengers to seamlessly transition between river and ocean voyages within a single trip. This innovative approach aims to provide travelers with a more immersive and diverse cruising experience.
Why it matters
The move by Windstar Cruises to blend river and ocean cruising is seen as a strategic response to evolving traveler preferences, as passengers increasingly seek more varied and enriching cruise experiences. This new hybrid model could reshape the industry and appeal to a wider range of cruisers.
The details
The new river-to-ocean cruises will feature smaller, more nimble ships that can navigate both rivers and open oceans. Passengers will be able to start their journey on a river cruise, exploring inland destinations, and then transition to an ocean voyage, visiting coastal regions and islands. Windstar plans to offer these hybrid itineraries in Europe, Asia, and other popular cruise destinations.
- Windstar Cruises announced the new river-to-ocean cruise offerings on March 31, 2026.
- The first hybrid river-ocean voyages are scheduled to launch in the summer of 2027.
The players
Windstar Cruises
A leading small ship cruise line known for its intimate, yacht-style vessels and immersive travel experiences.
What they’re saying
“Blending river and ocean cruising allows us to offer travelers an even more diverse and enriching vacation experience. Our new hybrid itineraries will open up a world of possibilities for our guests.”
— Christopher Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises
What’s next
Windstar Cruises plans to unveil the full details of its new river-to-ocean cruise offerings, including specific itineraries and pricing, in the coming months.
The takeaway
Windstar's innovative approach to combining river and ocean cruising reflects the industry's ongoing efforts to cater to evolving traveler preferences and provide more immersive, customizable vacation experiences.
