Name: Ocean Crossings
Brand: Windstar Cruises

Overview

Discover Far East and Thailand over 30 nights aboard the Star Seeker - sail with Windstar Cruises from Tokyo. Shore days in Shimizu, Okinawa, and Bangkok are complemented by 2 days at sea, where you can make the most of everything the Star Seeker has to offer. With a blend of vibrant ports and tranquil sea days, this cruise strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Available from £21,531 per person - a fantastic opportunity to explore Far East and Thailand aboard the Star Seeker.

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

Day 1

Tokyo

Tokyo, a city that masterfully blends the ultramodern with the traditional, offers a vibrant urban tapestry that is a treasure trove for explorers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Known for its dynamic climate with distinct seasonal changes, Tokyo provides a unique backdrop for the cherry blossoms of spring and the fiery leaves of autumn. This city goes beyond the neon lights and skyscrapers; its a place where ancient temples stand in the shadows of towering buildings, offering a true slice of Japanese life. Fun fact: Tokyo's Sumida River hosts one of the oldest and most spectacular fireworks festivals in Japan.

Day 2

Shimizu

Day 3

Shingu

Day 4

At sea

Day 5

Kagoshima

Day 6

Hashima

Day 6

Nagasaki

Nagasaki, steeped in a tapestry of renowned history, invites travelers to uncover its hidden treasures. As a testament to resilience, this city embodies the spirit of Japan, offering an authentic glimpse into its vibrant culture. Blessed with a temperate climate, Nagasaki provides a refreshing escape from tourist crowds, revealing the heart of the nation. Cruise lines embrace its allure, transporting passengers to explore its historic sites and cultural landmarks. From tranquil gardens to bustling markets, Nagasaki serves as a living canvas, showcasing Japan's multifaceted identity.

Day 7

Busan

Day 8

Karatsu

Day 9

Hiroshima

Day 10

Takamatsu

Day 11

Osaka

Osaka, the kitchen of Japan, beckons food lovers and history buffs alike with its down-to-earth charm and bustling street life. Known historically as a merchant city, Osaka offers a temperate climate that nurtures both its colorful festivals and vibrant nightlife. This city stands apart from its polished counterpart Tokyo by offering a genuine glimpse into the daily lives of ordinary Japanese people, through its thriving local eateries and lively markets. Unique to Osaka is its obsession with comedy, home to the nation's soul of humor, making it a place where laughter and warmth permeate the street corners.

Day 12

At sea

Day 13

Amami Ōshima

Day 14

Okinawa

Day 15

Ishigaki

Day 16

Keelung (Chilung)

Day 17

At sea

Days 18-19

Hong Kong

Hong Kong, originally a small fishing village, has evolved into a vibrant global metropolis and a significant gateway to China. Its subtropical climate facilitates a lively blend of urban and natural experiences, from neon-lit streets to serene hikes like Dragon's Back. Hong Kong offers an authentic exposure to Cantonese lifestyle and cuisine amidst its towering skyscrapers. A unique fact: it boasts one of the world's highest per capita concentrations of cafes and restaurants, offering an eclectic dining scene.

Day 20

At sea

Days 21-22

Ha Long Bay

Day 23

Da Nang

Once a pivotal French colonial port, Da Nang today offers a vibrant blend of pristine beaches and rich history, set against the backdrop of the Marble Mountains. The city enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, with sunny skies perfect for exploring its scenic landscapes and historical sites, far from the more frequented tourist paths of Vietnam. Da Nang is a showcase for Vietnam's dynamic growth and respect for its roots, featuring cutting-edge architecture alongside ancient pagodas. Uniquely, it boasts one of the worlds most spectacular bridges, the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water each weekend night.

Day 24

Chan May

Near the former demilitarized zone that once divided North and South Vietnam, Chan May is now a gateway to some of Vietnams most profound cultural treasures. With a subtropical climate, it features lush landscapes that burst with color during the rainy season, offering a dramatic contrast to the typical dry scenery often associated with Vietnam. Chan May is not just a stop; its an invitation to explore the untamed beauty of Central Vietnam, complete with hidden lagoons and local villages where traditional lifestyles thrive. Here, the serene Lap An Lagoon mirrors the sky, providing a picturesque setting unique to this part of the world.

Day 25

At sea

Day 26

Ho Chi Minh City

Once a pivotal market town on the banks of the Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, has blossomed into a high-energy metropolis, merging tradition with modernity. Its tropical climate enhances the lush, green expanses scattered throughout the city, perfect for those who seek respite within vibrant urban confines. The citys streets, a labyrinth of local food vendors, French colonial architecture, and bustling markets, offer an authentic snapshot of Vietnamese life. Intriguingly, its also the motorbike capital of the world, with over 8 million bikes weaving through the citys veins.

Day 26

Day 27

Ho Chi Minh City

Day 28

At sea

Day 29

Sihanoukville

Day 30

Koh Kood

Ko Kood, a hidden gem in the Gulf of Thailand, unveils its layers of lush landscapes and quiet beaches, far removed from the more frequented islands. This island's climate is ideally tropical, enhancing its laid-back, untouched feel, making it perfect for those seeking serenity. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Ko Kood is a living gallery of Thailands marine biodiversity. The island also boasts the largest waterfall in the region, a breathtaking natural wonder that remains relatively undiscovered.

Day 31

Bangkok

Once the trading heart of Siam, Bangkok today melds its illustrious past with vibrant contemporary life. This city's humid climate nurtures not only its lush landscapes but also the bustling street life that defines it. Bangkok is a true showcase of Thailand, where ancient temples coexist with modern skyscrapers. Here, you can explore the world's largest market, Chatuchak, which offers an array of goods unmatched in variety, illustrating the city's capacity to surprise and delight.

Day 1