Windstar's Mediterranean Voyages Top List of All-Time Best Cruises by Islands Magazine

Islands Magazine editors ranked the best cruises based on unique island itineraries. The full list of cruises is featured in the December 2011 issue of Islands magazine and on the magazine's website at www.islands.com.

For 2012, Windstar has expanded its Mediterranean offerings to include three new itineraries which sail to some of the world's greatest islands and enchanting destinations. Windstar's three new Mediterranean itineraries are:

• Classic Mediterranean: Discover ancient wonders and modern lifestyles of classic Greek and Italian cities. Seven- and eight-day sailings on Wind Spirit and Wind Star between Rome and Athens visit Ischia, Italy; Sorrento, Italy; Lipari, Italy; Giardini Naxos, Italy; Gythion, Greece; and Monemvasia, Greece. Departures: April 28; July 7; August 11; October 13; and November 3, 2012. Cruise fares starting from $1,999 per person, double occupancy.

• Islands of Italy: Experience classic Rome and the unspoiled, intimate islands popular with Italian locals. Seven-day sailings on Wind Spirit, Wind Star and Wind Surf from Rome to Rome visit Ischia, Italy; Sorrento, Italy; Lipari, Italy; scenic cruising by Stromboli, Italy; Porto Cervo, Italy; and Porto Vecchio, France. Departures: April 21, 28; August 4; and October 6, 2012. Cruise fares starting from $2,199 per person, double occupancy.

• Glitter and Glam of the Rivieras: Sail to chic ports in the south of France and the stylish Italian Riviera. Six-day sailings on Wind Surf between Rome and Barcelona visit Portoferraio, Italy; Portovenere, Italy; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Cannes, France; and St. Tropez, France. Departures: April 22; July 2; September 14; and October 29, 2012. Cruise fares starting from $1,799 per person, double occupancy.

Besides new voyages in 2012, Windstar recently announced an $18 million fleet refurbishment plan. Each yacht will receive stylish, new furniture, upholstery, art, lighting, wall coverings, carpeting, ceiling finishes, window treatments, and floor coverings, elevating the look and feel to ultimate luxury at sea, providing an unparalleled guest experience.

In addition to its Islands magazine honors, Windstar Cruises has been recognized in 2011 by some of the most notable names in the travel and lifestyle world. Celebrated Living, American Airlines' prestigious publication for first class passengers, named Windstar Cruises “Best Small-Ship/Mid-Ship Cruise Line” on their Platinum List for the fifth time in a row. Condé Nast Traveler listed Windstar on its Annual Gold List of “Best Cruise Lines,” named Windstar a “Top Small-Ship Cruise Line,” and all three of Windstar's yachts were recognized in the magazine's “Best Small Ships” Readers' Poll. Earlier this year, Windstar was selected by Travel + Leisure as one of the top five “World's Best Small-Ship Cruise Lines.” Windstar was also named “Most Romantic Cruise Line” and Wind Surf “Best Tall Ship” in Porthole Cruise Magazine's annual Readers' Choice Awards.