The new Star Seeker yacht, the first Star Class new build for small ship line Windstar Cruises, has floated out of the building dock, touching water for the first time at the WestSEA Shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
A float out is a maritime tradition of marking when a ship leaves dry dock and becomes waterborne for the first time. While construction of Star Seeker’s exterior is complete, work will be ongoing to complete the interiors, including 112 suites.
The ship will five dining options, a full-service spa with a grand entrance from the deck above, a fitness facility, and a fresh take on the line’s iconic Watersports Platform, which turns the ocean into an infinity pool by providing guests access to the sea directly from the ship. With a capacity for 224 guests and a staff to guest ratio of 1:2, Star Seeker will maintain the intimate atmosphere for which Windstar is renowned, ensuring personalized service at every turn.
Star Seekerwill enter service in December of 2025, sailing from Málaga, Spain to Miami, FL., where Windstar is headquartered and where the ship’s christening ceremony will take place in January of 2026. Star Seeker will then sail its first voyage in the Caribbean and offer more cruises in the region before heading up the West Coast of the United States to Alaska for a full season of summer cruises. From there, the ship will sail to Asia, bringing back the line’s popular Around Japan itineraries.
To commemorate the occasion, Windstar’s Star Seeker float-out ceremony included Mario Ferreira and Manuel Barros of Mystic Invest and Windstar’s Vice President of Expansion Projects John Gunner, who is directing the ship building project for Windstar.
“Seeing a ship come together and be at the point where she leaves dry dock for the sea is a memorable milestone in the life of a new build project,” Gunner said. “I am very grateful for this opportunity to be involved in creating a new ship for Windstar and thankful for Mario’s passion and vision for ships which helped guide us to this momentous event today – the float out of a new, beautiful ship for Windstar.”
Windstar will debut an additional new sister ship, Star Explorer, in December of 2026. Star Seeker and Star Explorer both have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations. The ships are equipped with the latest technology in safety, propulsion, and navigation, including pump jet thrusters and forward-facing Sonar. To minimize their environmental footprint and uphold the brand’s commitment to sustainability, the ships have tier III Nox rated Rolls Royce engines and can connect to shore power minimizing port emissions. In addition, the ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet all global standards. Every aspect of their design reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to preserving the environment while providing unforgettable experiences to travelers.
Photo Courtesy of Windstar Cruises