Windstar Cruises can be confusing because it’s often described as “all-inclusive”, even though not everything is included in the standard, base fare.
Windstar are very different from mainstream cruise lines, because many things that normally cost extra elsewhere are already included.
This guide will help you understand exactly what is included, and what costs extra.
What Is Included In A Windstar Cruise Fare?
Accommodation
All cabins onboard Star Class ships are suites.
In my cabin, I got a spacious seating area, a walk-in wardrobe/closet and a spacious bathroom with twin sinks.
Expect daily housekeeping and evening turndown service.
You will find luxury touches such as:
- robes
- slippers
- fresh fruit
- upgraded toiletries.
- night time turn down chocolates
Dining
All main dining venues are included.
Speciality restaurants are also included, unlike most mainstream cruise lines.
When I sailed on Star Pride, there were two speciality restaurants: Basil + Bamboo and Candles.
Both speciality restaurants are completely complimentary for all guests.
(Candles was actually a separate area within the buffet.) We ate at both restaurants, and both were very good!
Free 24-hour room service is included too
Some Drinks Included
- Soft drinks are included, but alcoholic drinks are not.
- Tea, coffee, water, juices, bottled and soft drinks are included, subject to availability.
Marina Platform Watersports
- There is a marina platform at the back of many Windstar ships.
- Included activities – like kayaks, paddleboards, watersports, custom-fitted snorkel gear, and floating platforms – weather permitting.
- This is a unique selling point, that can only be found on luxury yachts and small ships.
Fitness Centre And Classes
- Gym access is included.
- Yoga/stretching/wellness classes, if available onboard.
Entertainment And Activities
- Entertainment is more low-key than on large cruise ships.
- Live music and local performances, with local entertainers boarding the ship.
- Sail-away events
- Enrichment lectures and nightly port talks.
- Guest lecturers onboard to help you enhance your understanding of the local cultures.
Open Bridge Policy
- Guests can often visit the bridge – this would cost extra, if it is available at all, on mainstream cruise lines.
- This open-door policy is very unusual in modern cruising, and something cruise fans love.
Port Shuttle Buses
- Shuttle buses are included where needed.
- Many mainstream cruises charge extra for this.
Other Inclusions Worth A Mention…
- Signature Onboard & Beach Barbecues
- Market Tours With the Chef – subject to availability
- Shoe Polishing Service
- Windstar’s Crew Talent Show
What Costs Extra On A Windstar Cruise?
Alcoholic Drinks
Alcoholic drinks are not included in the base fare.
When I sailed, I had an “all-inclusive package”, as part of a promotion.
Otherwise, you can upgrade to an all-inclusive package for a cost of $99 per day. ( Correct at time of writing, May 2026)
WINDSTAR’S ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES
Windstar Cruises
Transform your cruise into a private yacht style experience with everything you ever wanted. Make it an all-inclusive voyage for just $99 per guest per day with our All-Inclusive Fares and enjoy the ultimate in convenience and value with Wi-Fi, unlimited select beer, wine by the glass, cocktails, and gratuities or just purchase a la carte. It’s YOUR cruise and it’s your choice!
WiFi
Unless you buy the “all-inclusive package” or have some sort of included promotion, WiFi isn’t included.
You can buy the WiFi separately. The costs (at time of writing, May 2026) are as follows:
Unlimited Internet Package
-7 Day Cost $245
-8 Day Cost $280
-9 Day Cost $315
-10 Day Cost $350
-11 Day Cost $385
-14 Day Cost $490
-15 Day Cost $525
Shore Excursions
Tours and excursions cost extra.
Windstar focuses heavily on destination experiences, and offers a range of excursions in most ports.
You can choose from a tiered range of experiences, suitable for all physical abilities.
Spa Treatments
Spa services and salon treatments cost extra.
Gratuities
- Gratuities are not normally included, unless you have the “all-inclusive” package.
- My advice would be to check carefully before booking so you know whether you will have to pay extra.
Our crew works very hard to make sure that every aspect of your cruise meets the highest standards. This includes those crew members who serve you directly, such as wait staff, beverage servers, and the stewards who service your stateroom or suite each day. There are also many others who support their efforts whom you may never meet, such as galley and laundry staff. To ensure that the efforts of all of our crew members are recognized and rewarded, a Hotel Service Charge of $16 per passenger per day is automatically added to each guest’s onboard account.
Windstar Cruises
Service Charges on Drinks
If you decide not to buy a drinks package (or the all inclusive package that included drinks) be aware that, simililar to many American cruise lines, they will charge you a service charge for every drink purchased. (In addition to the $16 in service charges/gratuities you are paying anyway.)
I think this often catches people out, particularly if they are from the UK where we don’t have the same tipping culture as the US.
In addition, (To Service Charges) a 18% Beverage Service Charge is automatically added to bar charges and dining room wine purchases. These charges are paid entirely to Windstar crew members, and represent an important part of their compensation.
Windstar Cruises
If you don’t want to buy the “all-inclusive” package, there is a simple drinks package available as well.
The “Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package” features unlimited beer, wine and cocktails by the glass for $79 per person, per day.
It can be purchased up to five days before your cruise. It’s available onboard for a higher cost of $89 per guest. (At time of writing, May 2026).
It would seem to me that that isn’t very good value for money, and you would be better off spending $99 per day and having service charges/gratuities and WiFi included too.
If you buy the all-inclusive package or the Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package, no additional service charges will be added. They are included within the price of the package.
If you have a drinks package or the all-inclusive package, you are able to help yourself to the drinks in the suite’s minibar at no additional charge.
Mainstream cruise lines often charge extra for these drinks, even if you have a drinks package.
Before You Go
Is it better to plan far ahead when you book your cruise, or find a last-minute deal? Find out here:
Booking A Cruise Last Minute Vs Early – Which Is Actually Cheaper?
Why do some people feel like they are still moving when they have disembarked a cruise? Find out why here:
Why Do Some People Get Land Sickness After A Cruise?
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