Experience Ocean to River Cruising with Windstar Cruises

What if your cruise could begin in the heart of a city, sail beneath ancient bridges and alongside cathedral spires, and then seamlessly continue out to the open ocean, reaching remote coastlines, hidden islands, and ports that no other ship can reach? That is exactly what Windstar Cruises makes possible with its pioneering Ocean to River cruising concept — a fundamentally different way to experience the world, all without ever changing ships.

Windstar Cruises is the only cruise line offering true Ocean to River journeys aboard intimate small-ship yachts purpose-built to navigate both inland waterways and open seas. With access to iconic waterways including the River Thames, the Seine, the Corinth Canal, and the Douro, as well as coastal destinations that larger ocean ships and traditional river vessels simply cannot reach, Windstar unlocks a world of exploration that no other travel experience can offer. From the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the charming streets of St. Malo to the historic skyline of London and the sun-drenched Greek coastline, every itinerary is crafted for travelers who seek depth, authenticity, and genuine discovery.

Leading this new era of travel is Star Explorer, Windstar's newest all-suite yacht launching in December 2026. Designed specifically for river-to-ocean travel, Star Explorer carries just 224 guests in all-suite accommodations and is purpose-built to navigate waterways too narrow for larger ocean ships while also sailing comfortably in open seas. With no crowds, no big-ship theatrics, and a relaxed club-like atmosphere, every Windstar voyage delivers the romance of the open sea paired with the intimacy and destination focus of a river cruise — in a single, seamless journey.

Contact your Luxury Cruise Connections travel advisor today to discover Windstar's Ocean to River itineraries and reserve your suite aboard Star Explorer or any yacht in the Windstar fleet.