Name: Endless Days in Norway
Brand: Windstar Cruises

Overview

There's no better way to see Mediterranean and Spain than from the deck of Star Explorer, sailing with Windstar Cruises for 8 nights from Bordeaux. Between 1 sea days, you'll explore 3 ports of call, with Biarritz, Gijón, and Leixões standing out as particular highlights of the voyage. With so much to see ashore and enjoy on board, this Mediterranean and Spain itinerary promises lasting memories from start to finish. Fares for this Windstar Cruises sailing begin at just £5,945 per person.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a fleet of small luxury cruise ships. The cruise line has six yachts - three of which are masted sailing ships - and offers laid-back luxury with a tinge of historic seafaring adventure.

Wind Star and Wind Spirit each carry 148 guests, whereas Wind Surf carries 342. 'Power yachts' Star Pride, Star Breeze and Star Legend all carry 312 passengers. It's a unique experience, by all means!

Cruise Itinerary

Days 1-2

Bordeaux

Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.

Day 2

Day 3

Biarritz

Day 4

San Sebastian

Day 4

Biarritz

Day 5

Bilbao

Bilbao, once an industrial heartland, has transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art, exemplified by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The climate here is temperate and inviting, with mild temperatures that make year-round visits pleasant. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Holland America offer excursions that allow travelers to explore not just the famous museum, but also lesser-known areas like the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, providing a more rounded glimpse into Bilbao's rejuvenation and traditions. Interestingly, Bilbao is also known for its unique linguistic contribution, being a stronghold of the Basque language, which predates most European languages and adds a layer of mystique to this vibrant city.

Day 6

Gijón

Day 7

Vigo

Day 8

Leixões

Nestled along Portugal's picturesque coastline, Leixoes beckons with its maritime legacy. Once a bustling fishing village, it evolved into a vibrant port city, etching its name in seafaring lore. The climate here, with its gentle sea breezes and mild temperatures, creates an idyllic setting for exploration. Unlike typical tourist destinations, Leixoes offers an authentic glimpse into Portuguese coastal life, where locals mingle with visitors in quaint cafes and seafood eateries. Beyond its charming streets, Leixoes boasts one of Europe's largest cruise terminals, serving as a gateway to Portugal's enchanting cities and historic landmarks, making it an essential port of call for discerning travelers.

Day 9

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Days 1-2

Bordeaux

Day 2

Bordeaux

Day 3

Biarritz

Day 4

San Sebastian

Day 4

Biarritz

Day 5

Bilbao

Day 6

Gijón

Day 7

Vigo

Day 8

Leixões

Day 9

Lisbon

224

Passengers

130

Crew

2026

Launched

9923t

Tonnage

131m

Length

19m

Width

16kts

Speed

Decks

USD

Currency

Star Explorer

Star Explorer Inaugural Season

Be one of the first to experience Star Explorer, the second of Windstar’s newest yachts, during her first-ever sailing season beginning December 2026 in the Mediterranean!