How to Recognize a Potential Windstar Cruises Client
by Brittany Chrusciel
It can be challenging to introduce clients to a new brand let alone an entirely new way to travel, like a sailing yacht. But we guarantee that you already have clients in your book of business who are a perfect fit for award-winning small-ship cruise line Windstar Cruises. How can you identify them? The following are four telltale signs that you might have a potential Windstar convert in your midst.
They’re looking for a failsafe group getaway.
Clients traveling as a group can be new to the Windstar brand or even new to cruise and still appreciate the perks of a traveling, inclusive vacation option. They can forget the hassle of multiple bookings at hotels, or the constant repacking needed on a bus or land tour. Windstar guests board their yacht, unpack only once and can explore each port on the itinerary individually or as a group with private shore excursion options. For a slight upcharge (less than $100 per person, per day) clients can opt for a more inclusive experience, bundling gratuities, unlimited drinks and Wi-Fi.
Star Advantage Groups, consisting of only seven guests for a limited time, will enjoy the tailored perks of their block reservation, which include a discount on cruise fare, onboard credit gifted per person, a catered cocktail party and a special credit for the primary guest or “tour conductor.” Additionally, it’s easy to reserve dining reservations in advance as a large party, so you’re able to celebrate time together on and off the ship. If you’re traveling as a family, children 8 years of age and older are welcome to join any Windstar sailing.
They’ve sailed the big cruise lines and are ready for fewer crowds.
If your client is ready to move on from mega-ships that cater to young families (think empty nesters and/or retirees), small ships like the six in the Windstar fleet are an ideal transition. With all-suite yachts accommodating only 312 guests and sailing yachts with capacities of just 148 to 342 people, your client will never be lost in the crowd — because there simply isn’t one. For this reason, ocean cruising on a more intimate vessel is also a natural vacation option for those who have taken and appreciate the pace of river cruises.
The size of the ship not only allows it to enter smaller, niche ports but ensures an attentive service ratio of one staff member for every 1.5 guests. The flexibility of Windstar itineraries makes late nights or overnights in port possible, which permits guests to partake in a destination’s nightlife without the rush to elbow through an embarkation line to get back onboard.
They’re looking for a twist on their Caribbean or European vacation.
If your clients are well traveled, chances are they have “done” the Caribbean or journeyed throughout Europe at least a half-dozen times. Maybe they have done the guided tours or stayed at an oceanfront resort and are looking to see something new. Windstar Cruises is perfectly equipped to sail into tucked-away harbors, giving guests access to the pristine bays of Virgin Gorda or Guadeloupe in place of heavily touristed islands like St. Thomas. If mainland Spain, France and Italy are well-trod territory, suggest the Canary Islands. In its 2025-2026 season, Windstar Cruises will sail a collection of itineraries from eight to 18 days that traverse these unique islands off the coast of Iberia (Spain and Portugal) with Moorish influence from nearby Morocco.
Well suited to laidback cruisers as well as active explorers, Windstar provides your clients with a wish list of destinations stretching well beyond the ordinary. Potential trips of a lifetime for the client who has “been everywhere” might include Tahiti with the Marquesas or a grand tour of the Middle East — yes, you can sail there! Even better, Windstar yachts are equipped with a watersports platform that offers complimentary use of kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel equipment and more, right off the back of your ship.
They’re a solo traveler looking for relaxed luxury.
The savviest clients know there is no need to stay home if you’re single or to stop traveling after the loss of a spouse or traveling partner. Cruises, especially those providing an intimate onboard atmosphere, is an idyllic option for the solo traveler because they have a built-in social circle and support system. As part of the Windstar family, you are welcomed. Clients can easily meet fellow solo cruisers or friendly groups through organized events or as part of the friendly environment for a meal, drink, round of trivia or to tag along on a shore excursion.
Cruise tours are the best of both options, with a land-based portion of the vacation before or after your client’s sailing. This is not only a worry-free way to see the most of a destination, but also provides the safe framework of a group — and one that will follow them to their ship or vice versa. Windstar often reduces the fee known as a single supplement, so booking a cabin for a single client can be a more affordable option for them.
From the Sponsor:
All cruise ships let you see the world. Only Windstar brings guests close enough so they can truly experience it. Our classic sailing yachts and all-suite yachts accommodate 148 to 342 guests, making them just the right size to visit places big ships can’t navigate or can no longer go. This intimacy provides your clients with the luxuries of time, space and freedom to immerse themselves in both the journey and the destination.
For a limited time, you can earn a TC with only seven guests booked, plus, you’ll receive $100 per guest bonus commission with an earned TC! Open a new Star Advantage Group contract by November 30, 2023. Cruises and Cruise Tours are open through early 2026 in Tahiti, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Greece and the Holy Lands, the Canary Islands, the Middle East and more!
Your clients will receive 10% Group savings from Savings Fares plus Best Available Offer, Guest Amenity of $100 per person onboard credit and a complimentary cocktail party with hors d’oeuvres.
Learn more and open your Star Advantage contract today! Terms & Conditions apply.
https://www.windstarcruises.com/star-group-sailings/

