Windstar Cruises

Daily Itinerary

1. Day 1

   Tokyo

   Depart 16:00

   Japan

   

   Tokyo's port is a vibrant gateway to both cultural and culinary experiences, uniquely blending traditional Japanese heritage with modern innovation. Must-do experiences include savoring fresh sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market and exploring the natural beauty of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. The best season to visit is spring, when cherry blossoms bloom, transforming the city into a picturesque landscape.

2. Day 2

   Shimizu

   Arrive 08:00Depart 17:00

   Japan

   

   Shimizu is Japan's premier Mount Fuji gateway port on Suruga Bay, where a storied tea-trading heritage meets exceptional coastal cuisine — most notably the prized sakura ebi cherry blossom shrimp found nowhere else. Visitors should not miss the UNESCO-listed Miho no Matsubara pine grove for iconic Fuji views and the vibrant Kashi no Ichi fish market for the freshest tuna and whitebait in Japan. The ideal window stretches from late March through May, when cherry blossoms frame the snowcapped volcano and spring's first tea harvest perfumes the hillsides.

3. Day 3

   Shingu, Japan

   Arrive 08:00Depart 17:00

   Japan

   

   Shingu is a sacred gateway to the UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, home to Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine and within reach of Nachi Falls — Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall framed by its iconic three-story pagoda. Visitors should walk the ancient forest trails, take a traditional river boat on the undammed Kumano River, and soak in Yunomine, Japan's oldest hot spring. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring this deeply spiritual landscape.

4. Day 4

   At Sea

   

5. Day 5

   Kagoshima

   Arrive 08:00Depart 17:00

   Japan

   

   Kagoshima, the "Naples of the East," is a dramatic port city on Japan's southern coast defined by the active Sakurajima volcano and a rich samurai heritage dating to the powerful Shimazu clan. Visitors should not miss the fifteen-minute ferry crossing to Sakurajima's lava fields and a tasting of legendary Kurobuta black pork paired with local sweet-potato shōchū. Spring (March–May) offers mild temperatures and cherry blossoms, while autumn (October–November) brings clear skies ideal for volcano views.

6. Day 6

   Hashima

   Arrive 10:00Depart 22:00

   Japan

   

   Hashima (Gunkanjima) is an abandoned coal-mining island off Nagasaki that was once the most densely populated place on Earth, its concrete apartment towers and industrial facilities now crumbling into the sea in one of the world's most dramatic industrial ruins. Must-dos include the guided tour through the deteriorating streets, contemplating both the engineering ambition and the wartime forced-labour history, and photographing the battleship silhouette from the sea. Tour boats from Nagasaki operate year-round, weather permitting.

7. Day 7

   Busan

   Arrive 13:00Depart 21:00

   South Korea

   

   Busan, a bustling port city in South Korea, is known for its stunning coastal scenery, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. Must-do experiences include visiting the iconic Jagalchi Fish Market for fresh seafood and exploring the ancient sites of Gyeongju. The best time to visit is during the mild spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant and local festivals abound.

8. Day 8

   Karatsu, Japan

   Arrive 08:00Depart 16:00

   Japan

   

   Karatsu, on Kyushu’s northwestern coast, is one of Japan’s three most revered pottery towns, where 14-generation kilns produce wabi-sabi ceramics prized in tea ceremony alongside a castle overlooking a million-pine coastal grove. Must-dos include visiting a Karatsu-yaki kiln, tasting live squid sashimi at Yobuko’s morning market, and cycling through the Niji-no-Matsubara pine grove. Visit late March for cherry blossoms, or early November for the spectacular Karatsu Kunchi festival.

9. Day 9

   Hiroshima

   Arrive 10:00Depart 19:00

   Japan

   

   Hiroshima is a deeply moving yet vibrantly reborn Japanese city, home to the UNESCO-listed Peace Memorial Park and the iconic A-Bomb Dome. Must-dos include savouring the city's famous layered okonomiyaki, tasting fresh Inland Sea oysters, and taking the ferry to Miyajima to see the floating vermilion torii gate. Spring cherry-blossom season and autumn foliage (March–May and October–November) offer the most spectacular visits.

10. Day 10

    Takamatsu

    Arrive 09:00Depart 17:00

    Japan

    

    Takamatsu is Shikoku's gateway city to the art-island-studded Seto Inland Sea, home to the magnificent Ritsurin Garden and Japan's finest sanuki udon noodles. Must-dos include an early-morning boat ride in Ritsurin Garden, eating udon at a family-run counter shop, and ferrying to Naoshima for world-class contemporary art. Visit in spring or autumn for ideal weather and island-hopping conditions.

11. Day 11

    Osaka

    Arrive 12:30Depart 17:00

    Japan

    

    Osaka is Japan's exuberant culinary capital, a neon-drenched metropolis where Edo-period merchant culture lives on in vibrant street food markets and Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurants alike. No visit is complete without savouring *takoyaki* and *kushikatsu* along the Dōtonbori Canal, or venturing north to witness Hirosaki's legendary cherry blossoms. The ideal window is late March through May for spring blooms and mild weather, or October through November when autumn foliage transforms the surrounding Kansai region into a tapestry of amber and gold.

12. Day 12

    At Sea

    

13. Day 13

    Amami-Oshima

    Arrive 09:00Depart 16:00

    Japan

    

    Amami-Oshima is a UNESCO World Heritage island between Kyushu and Okinawa, home to ancient subtropical forests, endemic wildlife including the rare Amami rabbit, and pristine coral beaches like Tomori. Visitors should explore the Kinsakubaru Primeval Forest, witness the 1,300-year-old Oshima tsumugi silk-dyeing tradition, and kayak through the Sumiyo mangroves. Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) offer the most comfortable conditions.

14. Day 14

    Naha

    Arrive 09:00Depart 17:00

    Japan

    

    Naha, the subtropical capital of Okinawa and former seat of the independent Ryūkyū Kingdom, offers a beguiling fusion of royal heritage, artisan traditions, and one of the world's most health-conscious cuisines — from meltingly tender *rafute* pork to the oceanic pop of *umibudo* sea grapes. Visitors should not miss the vermilion splendour of Shuri Castle and the sensory immersion of Makishi Public Market. The mild subtropical climate makes Naha inviting year-round, though March through May delivers the most luminous skies and comfortable temperatures for exploration ashore.

15. Day 15

    Ishigaki, Japan

    Arrive 13:00Depart 19:00

    Japan

    

    Ishigaki is Japan's subtropical gateway to the Yaeyama Islands, where the world's largest blue coral colony, Kabira Bay's emerald waters, and Ryukyuan cultural traditions create an experience closer to Taiwan than Tokyo. Visit March through October via Holland America Line or Oceania Cruises for world-class reef snorkeling, traditional sanshin music, and the tropical Japan that challenges every assumption about the Land of the Rising Sun.

16. Day 16

    Keelung

    Arrive 07:00Depart 18:00

    Taiwan

    

    Keelung, a historic port city in northern Taiwan, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and culinary treasures, including the famous Oyster Omelette and Braised Pork Rice. A must-do experience is exploring the bustling Keelung Night Market and venturing to nearby attractions like Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge. The best season to visit is during the fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor exploration.

17. Day 17

    At Sea

    

18. Day 18

    Hong Kong

    Arrive 12:01

    Hong Kong

    

    Hong Kong's port is a vibrant gateway to a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, characterized by its stunning skyline and bustling atmosphere. Must-do experiences include savoring local dim sum and exploring the lively markets. The best season to visit is during the autumn months, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor adventures.

19. Day 19

    Hong Kong

    Depart 17:00

    Hong Kong

    

    Hong Kong's port is a vibrant gateway to a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, characterized by its stunning skyline and bustling atmosphere. Must-do experiences include savoring local dim sum and exploring the lively markets. The best season to visit is during the autumn months, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor adventures.

20. Day 20

    At Sea

    

21. Day 21

    Halong Bay

    Arrive 08:00

    Vietnam

    

    Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and rich cultural heritage. Must-do experiences include exploring the mesmerizing caves and indulging in local delicacies like *bánh cuốn* and *nghêu hấp xả*. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and the skies are clearer, perfect for cruising and outdoor exploration.

Cabin Categories

Premier Veranda Suite

Suite

225 sq ftMax 2VS1

Located at the middle of the ship, these 225-square-foot suites welcome you with stylish comfort and beautiful ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTVMedia/Entertainment Station+7

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Premier Veranda Suite

Suite

225 sq ftMax 2VS2

Located at the middle of the ship, these 225-square-foot suites welcome you with stylish comfort and beautiful ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTVMedia/Entertainment Station+7

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Premier Veranda Suite

Suite

225 sq ftMax 2VSS

Located at the middle of the ship, these 225-square-foot suites welcome you with stylish comfort and beautiful ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTVMedia/Entertainment Station+7

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Triple Premier Veranda Suite

Suite

246 sq ftMax 3VS3

Located on deck 6, this 246-square-foot suite welcomes you with stylish comfort and stunning ocean views. Featuring an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and a pull-out sofa in the living area, the suite allows for triple occupancy. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedLounge AreaVanity AreaTVMedia/Entertainment Station+7

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Veranda Suite

Suite

225 sq ftMax 2VS

Stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you to this 225-square-foot suite. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaVanity AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTV+7

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Vista Veranda Suite

Suite

268 sq ftMax 2VVB

Located on deck 7, this 268-square-foot suite welcomes you with stylish comfort and stunning ocean views. Relax on your queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) or lounge in the nearby living area. The outdoor space adds another 55 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

ShowerTVSafeHair DryerTelephoneDesk+7

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Infinity Suite

Suite

280 sq ftMax 2IN1

This 280-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window that allows for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Your suite features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired), a walk-in mosaic glass shower and a comfortable living area where you can lounge and enjoy the view.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaVanity AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTV+7

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Infinity Suite

Suite

280 sq ftMax 2IN

This 280-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window that allows for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Your suite features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired), a walk-in mosaic glass shower and a comfortable living area where you can lounge and enjoy the view.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaVanity AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTV+7

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Oceanview Suite

Suite

203 sq ftMax 2OV

Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality in this thoughtfully designed 203-square-foot suite. The well-planned layout creates an ideal retreat with plenty of natural light, a view of the sea, a walk-in mosaic glass shower and an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twins if desired), perfect for unwinding after a day of fun and exploration.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationVanity AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTVMedia/Entertainment Station+6

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Triple Infinity Suite

Suite

301 sq ftMax 3IN3

This roomy 301-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window in the bedroom, allowing for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. This suite also features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and a pull-out sofa in the separate living area, allowing for triple occupancy. In the bathroom, you’ll find a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerRoom Service AvailableTVMedia/Entertainment Station+7

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Vista Infinity Suite

Suite

280 sq ftMax 2IN2

Located on deck 7, this 280-square-foot suite features a wide floor-to-ceiling infinity window that allows for stunning ocean views. You can even open the top half to enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Your suite features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired), a walk-in mosaic glass shower and a comfortable living area where you can lounge and enjoy the view.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationShowerRoom Service AvailableTVMedia/Entertainment StationSafe+6

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Classic Suite

Suite

353 sq ftMax 2CS

Step into a stylish and bright open living area with a spacious adjacent bedroom. This 353-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed that can be converted into two twins if desired, while the bathroom includes a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaVanity AreaShowerToiletries ProvidedTV+8

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Deluxe Suite

Suite

288 sq ftMax 2DS

This 288-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and its own sliding glass door with balcony access, while the bathroom includes a luxurious walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationVanity AreaShowerToiletries ProvidedTVMedia/Entertainment Station+7

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Horizon Owners Suite

Suite

548 sq ftMax 2OW

This luxurious 548-square-foot suite combines floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around balcony for an unparalleled cruising experience. Perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner, the wrap-around balcony adds 248 square feet of space and offers unobstructed views of the sea. The suite boasts a separate entryway — as well as separate dining and living areas — and a guest powder room. The bedroom includes an inviting king bed (convertible into two XL twin beds if desired), and the bathroom features a luxurious double walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets. For family bookings, the adjacent suite can be combined to provide extra bedrooms and space for entertaining.

King or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaDining AreaVanity AreaShowerToiletries Provided+9

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Star Suite

Suite

380 sq ftMax 2CS2

Step into a stylish and bright open living area with a spacious adjacent bedroom. This 380-square-foot suite welcomes you with spectacular views, courtesy of the sliding glass doors that lead out to your private balcony. The outdoor space adds another 110 square feet, enough to sit outside comfortably and enjoy the breeze. The bedroom features an inviting queen bed (convertible into two twin beds if desired) and its own sliding glass door with balcony access, while the bathroom includes a bathtub and walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets.

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaVanity AreaShowerRoom Service AvailableTV+8

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