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Booking a cruise is exciting — but booking a group cruise with Windstar Cruises takes it to another level of luxury and connection. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, corporate incentive trip, wedding at sea, or just a gathering of friends, Windstar offers a seamless and elegant way to travel together.Known for its small ships, intimate ambiance, and destination-rich itineraries, Windstar Cruises combines luxury with personalized service, making it ideal for groups who value privacy, comfort, and shared experiences.But how do you actually book a group cruise with Windstar Cruises? What qualifies as a group? What perks, discounts, and special services are available?This detailed guide answers every question — from eligibility and booking steps to payments, benefits, and insider tips to ensure your group voyage is smooth, rewarding, and unforgettable.
Before diving into the booking process, it’s important to understand why Windstar Cruises stands out for group travelers.
Windstar’s fleet of six intimate yachts carries between 148 and 342 guests — far fewer than large ocean liners. This allows your group to enjoy a peaceful, uncrowded environment with personalized service.
Windstar sails to some of the world’s most enchanting destinations — including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Tahiti, Greek Isles, Norway, and Asia — often visiting ports that larger ships can’t reach.
Groups can arrange private dining, custom shore excursions, and special onboard events like cocktail receptions or themed nights.
Windstar’s group program provides exclusive rates, bonus amenities, onboard credits, and reduced deposits for qualified group bookings.
Group cruises are perfect for:
Family reunions
Weddings or vow renewals
Birthday or anniversary celebrations
Corporate meetings or retreats
Alumni or affinity groups
Windstar defines a group as a reservation with a minimum of 8 guests occupying 4 or more staterooms on the same ship and sailing dateMinimum Requirement for Group Booking:At least 4 double-occupancy cabins (8 guests)All traveling on the same voyageBooked under a single group ID numberOnce your reservation meets this requirement, you qualify for Windstar’s Group Amenity Program (GAP), which offers a variety of rewards and customizable benefits.
When you book as a group, Windstar rewards you with exclusive perks unavailable to individual travelers.
Groups receive discounted fares and sometimes bonus savings depending on season and itinerary.
Windstar’s GAP system lets organizers choose their preferred perks, such as:
Onboard credit
Complimentary cocktail party
Private group dinner
Beverage packages
Wi-Fi credits
Shore excursion discounts
Groups benefit from lower deposits and extended payment deadlines, making it easier to coordinate with multiple travelers.
A Windstar Group Specialist helps organize everything — from stateroom allocations to special events and communications.
For every 9 or 10 full-fare guests booked, you may earn one complimentary berth (essentially one guest sails free).
Windstar allows groups to book private spaces onboard for celebrations, meetings, or themed gatherings.
Booking a group cruise is simple when you follow these structured steps.
First, define what kind of group you’re organizing. Are you a:
Family celebrating a reunion?
Company planning an incentive trip?
Couple inviting friends for a wedding at sea?
Travel club or hobby group (wine, art, yoga)?
Once you know your group’s purpose, confirm your estimated number of guests. You’ll need a minimum of 8 passengers (4 cabins) to qualify for group status.
Windstar offers diverse itineraries across the globe. To narrow your options:
Choose based on your group’s interests (e.g., beaches, culture, cuisine).
Consider cruise length — from 7 to 14 nights is most common.
Pick a season that aligns with your group’s availability.
Top Group-Friendly Destinations:
Greek Isles: History, beaches, and iconic scenery.
Caribbean: Relaxed vibe with plenty of private beaches.
Tahiti: Perfect for weddings and honeymoons.
Mediterranean: Ideal for food, wine, and culture enthusiasts.
You can book directly through Windstar or through a certified travel advisor who specializes in group cruises.
Phone: 1-800-258-7245 (U.S. & Canada)
Email: info@windstarcruises.com
Website: www.windstarcruises.com
When contacting Windstar, provide:
Group name and type
Number of guests/cabins
Desired destinations and dates
Any special requirements (e.g., wedding events, private excursions)
The Group Sales Representative will then create a tailored proposal with pricing, available amenities, and group codes.
Windstar will send you a custom group quote outlining:
Cabin categories and prices
Deposit requirements
GAP point allotment
Payment schedule
Cancellation terms
Once you review and approve it, your group will receive a unique group code or ID, which links all cabins together for management and benefits.
A small deposit (usually $250 per person) confirms your group.
Windstar typically allows you to hold cabins provisionally for 30–60 days while collecting deposits from participants. This grace period gives you time to finalize who’s joining.
After deposits are paid, the group is officially booked, and Windstar locks in your special rates and amenities.
Once your group is confirmed, Windstar’s coordinator will help you choose how to use your Group Amenity Points (GAP).
Common amenity choices include:
$100 onboard credit per cabin
Private cocktail party
Group wine tasting
Complimentary Wi-Fi package
Shore excursion discounts
You can tailor the experience based on your group’s interests — whether that’s relaxation, adventure, or celebration.
Each guest or cabin will have a separate booking under your group code.
You can manage these through:
A travel advisor, or
Windstar’s reservation portal
Make sure to confirm:
Guest names (matching passports)
Cabin assignments
Dining preferences
Excursion requests
Windstar requires final payment approximately 90 to 120 days before sailing, depending on the itinerary.
This is also when you’ll finalize:
Stateroom allocations
Guest lists
Final amenity selections
Your group coordinator will review all details before the sailing to ensure accuracy.
About 2–3 months before departure, Windstar’s group department helps with:
Customized communication materials (welcome letters, itineraries)
Group event scheduling
Dining or meeting space reservations
Shore excursion planning
This stage ensures your group has a smooth boarding process and cohesive experience onboard.
On embarkation day, Windstar’s staff ensures all group members are well cared for.
During the cruise, you can enjoy:
Priority group dining
Private celebrations
Custom excursions
Onboard event coordination
Windstar’s crew takes care of every detail, letting your group simply relax and connect.
Windstar’s group booking policies are designed to be flexible yet organized.
Typically $250 per person, but may vary by destination.
Fully refundable before the final payment deadline.
Due 90–120 days before sailing (varies by voyage).
Usually allowed up to 30 days before sailing (fees may apply).
Refundable up to final payment date.
After final payment, standard cancellation penalties apply.
Windstar supports various types of group travel:
Perfect for reunions, anniversaries, or milestone celebrations. Windstar can arrange private dinners or cocktail events.
Use Windstar’s luxury setting for meetings, rewards, or executive getaways. Custom excursions and branding options available.
Windstar offers romantic venues onboard or on private islands for ceremonies, receptions, and honeymoons.
From wine lovers to yoga clubs, Windstar helps organize themed cruises with customized programming.
For ultimate privacy, groups can charter an entire ship, fully customizing the itinerary, menu, entertainment, and branding.
Windstar offers open seating, allowing groups to dine together at flexible times. Private group dinners can also be arranged in select venues.
Book spaces for group functions such as:
Cocktail parties
Seminars or workshops
Celebrations or themed nights
Groups can plan private tours customized to their interests — cultural tours, wine tastings, beach days, or adventure outings.
Special announcements or welcome receptions can be arranged for milestone groups.
If you’re organizing the group, you’ll enjoy special incentives:
Earn one free berth for every 9–10 full-fare guests.
Larger groups may qualify for upgrades or additional perks like extra onboard credit or Wi-Fi.
Windstar provides group leaders with planning resources, flyers, and digital materials for coordination.
Travel advisors earn enhanced commissions and bonus amenities for group bookings.
Waiting Too Long to BookWindstar’s ships are small — cabins fill quickly. Always book early.
Not Confirming Names EarlyPassport name mismatches can cause delays or fees.
Ignoring Payment DeadlinesLate payments may result in lost cabins or forfeited deposits.
Skipping Travel InsuranceAlways recommend cruise protection plans for each traveler.
Not Coordinating Flight TimesEnsure all group members arrive on time for embarkation.
Book Early: The earlier you plan, the better your selection and discounts.
Appoint a Group Leader: Designate one point of contact for smooth communication.
Use GAP Points Wisely: Choose perks that most benefit your members, such as onboard credit.
Plan Private Activities: Add a cocktail party or group excursion to make the trip memorable.
Stay in Touch: Send updates and reminders to participants leading up to the cruise.
Explore Italy, France, and Spain — perfect for culinary and cultural groups.
Romantic sailing ideal for weddings or wellness retreats.
Great for family reunions or milestone celebrations.
Perfect for history and photography enthusiasts.
Once your group booking is complete, Windstar will:
Assign a dedicated Group Coordinator
Provide marketing tools (digital flyers, guest lists, etc.)
Help schedule onboard group events
Coordinate embarkation details
You’ll receive final documents and tickets closer to your sailing date, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Q1: What’s the minimum number of guests for a group booking?
: At least 8 guests (4 double-occupancy cabins).
Q2: Can each cabin pay separately?
A: Yes, Windstar allows individual payments while keeping everyone under the same group ID.
Q3: Can we earn free cabins?
A: Yes, through Tour Conductor Credits (TCC) — typically one free berth per 9–10 full-fare guests.
Q4: Can we change names after booking?
A: Yes, usually up to 30 days before sailing, subject to Windstar’s change policy.
Q5: Can we host private events?
A: Absolutely. You can schedule private receptions, dinners, or seminars onboard.
Q6: Are there discounts for children?
A: Windstar does not offer child-specific fares, as the experience is primarily adult-oriented.
Q7: Can we create a themed cruise?
A: Yes. Windstar supports affinity and themed groups, including wine, wellness, or alumni events.
Booking a group cruise with Windstar Cruises is an extraordinary way to experience the world together — with luxury, intimacy, and personalized service every step of the way.With just four cabins (eight guests), your group qualifies for exclusive perks like discounted fares, GAP rewards, private events, and onboard credits.Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, strengthening team bonds, or simply traveling with loved ones, Windstar ensures every guest feels valued and every moment feels special.
So, start planning your group voyage today — and let Windstar transform your next gathering into an unforgettable journey across the seas.
Your ultimate guide to cruise adventures. Discover amazing destinations, find the perfect cruise, and create unforgettable memories on the high seas.
© 2025 cruisebite.com All rights reserved. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service
