Ways to Summer: Why Windstar’s Small Ship Cruises Are the Perfect Escape

While the northern hemisphere braces for winter, Australians are heading into the hot summer days. But here’s the twist: Windstar Cruises is inviting us to flip the script and experience summer in a whole new way—with their “Ways to Winter” promotion.

Book by 7 October 2025, and you’ll enjoy a Free All-Inclusive Package plus up to US$1,000 onboard credit per stateroom on select voyages through March 2026. For Aussies, that means you can swap backyard BBQs for a yacht-style summer adventure in Tahiti, the Caribbean, the Canary Islands, or the Mediterranean—destinations that shine brightest when we’re on holiday.

Why Windstar Works for an Aussie Summer

I’ve always loved the idea of escaping our summer heat for a different kind of sunshine. Windstar’s small ships are intimate, stylish, and able to slip into boutique harbours that mega-liners can’t reach. That means fewer crowds, more authentic encounters, and a sense of travelling like a guest, not a tourist.

And because these voyages run through our summer months, it’s the perfect time to trade Sydney’s beaches for Tahitian lagoons or swap Melbourne’s laneway bars for tapas in Spain.

Where You Can Sail This Aussie Summer

• Tahiti (Dec–Mar): Swim straight off the yacht’s marina into turquoise lagoons, snorkel coral gardens, and discover black pearls.
• Mediterranean (Dec–Mar): Explore Spain, Italy, France, and Croatia without the summer crush. Think truffle hunting in Tuscany or Christmas markets in Barcelona.
• Caribbean (Dec–Mar): Boutique harbours like Virgin Gorda and St. Barts, beach BBQs, and conch fritters with a view.
• Canary Islands (Dec–Feb): Volcanic landscapes, Moorish history, and vineyards growing in lava fields.
• Costa Rica & Panama Canal (Dec–Mar): Rainforests, wildlife, and a daylight transit of the legendary canal.

What’s Included in the Offer?

Windstar’s All-In Package covers:

• Unlimited Wi-Fi (so you can make your mates jealous back home).
• Onboard gratuities (no awkward tipping moments).
• A wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.

Plus, the onboard credit can be used for shore excursions, spa treatments, or a splurge at the onboard boutique.

My Tips

• Book early: With limited suites, the best cabins go fast.
• Pack smart: Light resort wear for the tropics, but a jacket if you’re heading to Europe’s winter markets.
• Spend your credit wisely: Shore excursions are where the magic happens—think snorkelling with reef sharks in Tahiti or truffle hunting in Italy.
• Embrace the season: Travelling in the northern winter during our summer means fewer crowds and more authentic local encounters.

Final Thoughts

For Australians, Windstar’s “Ways to Winter” is really about Ways to Summer Differently. Instead of sticking to the same summer holiday routine, why not trade it for a yacht-style cruise that blends luxury with authenticity?

Whether it’s sipping wine in volcanic vineyards, wandering a quiet piazza in Florence, or diving into Tahitian lagoons, Windstar proves that our summer can be more than just hot days at home—it can be an unforgettable adventure abroad.

Ready to make your Australian summer extraordinary? Explore itineraries and book directly at Windstar Cruises.