Windstar Cruises is bringing its iconic sailing yacht Wind Spirit to the Canary Islands for the 2026/27 winter season, offering sun-soaked escapes filled with off-the-beaten-path adventures.
A refreshed itinerary in island paradise
From November 2026 to January 2027, Windstar Cruises will sail 9-night yacht-style voyages through the Canary Islands, featuring immersive new ports and upgraded onboard amenities. After a successful regional debut in late 2025, Wind Spirit’s return introduces visits to Porto Santo, Portugal and El Hierro, Spain—two intimate islands known for untouched nature, golden beaches, and cultural heritage.
“We’re always looking to craft new itineraries that show off the authentic heart of a destination, and these updated Canary Islands voyages do just that,”
Jess Peterson, Director of Destination Experience & Itinerary Planning at Windstar, said.
“By adding ports like Porto Santo and El Hierro – places larger ships can’t easily visit – we’re giving our guests a chance to experience a quieter, more natural side of the Canaries, with all the comforts of a Windstar yacht.”
Authentic experiences on and off the water
From camel rides through Lanzarote’s volcanic dunes to toboggan rides in Madeira and stargazing in La Palma, Windstar aims to deliver immersive, slow-paced travel through curated, local-led excursions. Select sailings align with Madeira’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks, viewed best from Wind Spirit’s open-air decks.
Travelers can also extend their trip with a Star Collector Voyage (13+ nights) or pair their cruise with a Madrid Cruise Tour, blending island life with European city culture.
Holidays with warmth and wonder
A lesser-known gem for holiday travel, the Canary Islands shine in December with festive traditions under mild 73°F weather. From seafood feasts on Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) to lively street serenades by Rondallas de los Divinos, the season combines Spanish charm with island soul.
Wind Spirit: renewed and ready to explore
Recently refreshed, Wind Spirit features upgraded staterooms, redesigned lounges, a reimagined spa, and the debut of Windstar’s marina platform in select ports—allowing guests to paddleboard, kayak, and lounge directly off the yacht.
Guests booking by August 31, 2025, can take advantage of an Early Booking Offer featuring:
- Complimentary All-Inclusive package (WiFi, select drinks, gratuities)
- Up to $200 onboard credit per stateroom
- Valued at over $1,300 on a 7-day cruise
Paired with the Pay Now, Save More offer (5% savings for paying in full), travelers can enjoy stacked value on these limited sailings.
About Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises is known for its award-winning small-ship cruises, offering relaxed luxury and culturally immersive experiences across more than 330 global ports. Its growing fleet includes three sailing yachts and three all-suite Star Class yachts—soon joined by Star Seeker and Star Explorer, set to debut in 2025 and 2026. Windstar is part of the Xanterra Travel Collection, a family of premium hospitality brands.
