Cruise Ship
Asia | Windstar Cruises - Star Breeze
Departure Dates:
2020: October 11 | 2021: March 12
Ports of Call:
Osaka; Takamatsu; Hiroshima; Karatsu; Busan; Hashima Island; Sasebo; Yakushima; Shingu; Shimizu; Tokyo; Kobe; Scenic Cruising Seto Inland Sea; Tomonoura; Hashima Island; Nagasaki; Yakushima; Amami Island; Okinawa (Naha); Keelung (Taipei); Hong Kong; Hundred Islands; Manila; Boracay; Coron/Busuanga Island; Palawan Puerto Princesa; Sandakan; Makassar; Loh Liang; Lembar; Benoa
General Info:
On this extended adventure, witness the juxtaposition of ancient traditions and contemporary cultures, bustling cities, and uninhabited islands across a variety of seas. Explore Osaka Castle and Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. Respectfully remember "Never again" in Hiroshima and visit South Korea's city of Busan boasting the Gyeongju outdoor museum. Explore the small hidden harbors of Amami Island, Tomonoura, and Yakushima with its ancient forests and snow monkeys. Shimizu brings the beauty of Mount Fuji. In Tokyo, go beyond the neon lights to discover its shogun past. Sip sake in Kyoto and experience the Taiwanese food culture in the markets of Taipei and Hong Kong's famous Stanley Market and Temple Street Night Market. Swim and snorkel in Hundred Islands National Park and absorb Manila's cosmopolitan blend of cultures. Stroll in the powdery sand of Boracay's White Beach, rated one of world's best, and SCUBA among historical WWII Japanese wrecks off Busuanga Island. Float Palawan's Subterranean River, one of the seven Wonders of Nature. Witness Komodo Dragons in Loh Liang and orangutans at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center in Sandakan. Take in Lombok's lovely beaches and turquoise-blue bays and Bali's calm waters and beautiful Batik arts.
TYPE OF VESSEL
With only 212 guests, you begin to feel like it's your own private yacht almost as soon as you step aboard. The sitting area of your spacious suite gives you an expansive ocean view, making it a welcome retreat. When you're ready to make an appearance, the lounges, club, casino and library are waiting to be explored. Take some "you" time in the tranquil WindSpa, enjoy a dip in the pool, work off that decadent dessert in the Fitness Center and, of course, you are always welcome to visit the Bridge to examine navigation charts with the Captain. Star Breeze is large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into delightful tiny harbors and hidden coves that others can't reach.
ITINERARY
Day 1 | Osaka, Japan: Osaka is the gateway to Kyoto with great street food, bright lights and delightful night life. Its main historic landmark is the 16th century Osaka Castle surrounded by a moat and many flowering trees. Kyoto is famous for its numerous Buddhist temples, gardens, imperial Shinto shrines and traditional wooden houses. It is also known for formal traditions like kaiseki dining (multiple courses of precise dishes) and geisha entertainers. Day 2 | Takamatsu, Japan: The main gateway to Shikoku Island and an important focal point for the island's rail and road transit systems, Takamatsu, on Japan's scenic Inland Sea, has been a political and economic center since the Edo period. Among the attractions here is Ritsurin Garden, created during the Edo period, and especially popular during spring for the cherry blossoms and autumn for the fall foliage. Takamatsu Symbol tower has several observation decks providing panoramic views of the sea and landscapes. Day 3 | Hiroshima, Japan: Largely destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II, Hiroshima today is a modern city on the island of Honshu. The Hiroshima Memorial Peace Arch, a UNESCO site commonly referred to as the Atomic Dome, commemorates the 1945 event. One feature is a colorful memorial to Sadako Sasaki, a young woman whose dying wish for peace was told in the story A Thousand Paper Cranes. Also worth seeing is the Hiroshima Museum of Art displaying paintings from Monet, Van Gogh, Fujishima and Asai and the UNESCO red torii of Miyajima. Day 4 | Karatsu, Japan: Located on the island of Kyushu, Karatsu is one of the closest Japanese cities to the Korean Peninsula. Karatsu Castle is the main attraction here. Built in 1608, it houses a museum of the castle's history and Karatsu ceramics. Karatsu is also known for its pottery which can be viewed at the Karatsu-yaki Pottery Gallery. Also worth visiting is the Karatsu Hikiyama Exhibition Hall which displays the 14 floats used in the annual Karatsu Kunchi Festival in November. Day 5 | Busan, South Korea: The second largest city in South Korea is a popular leisure destination due to the nearby hot springs. It is home to many famous beaches that lure visitors from around the world and the UNESCO site of Gyeongju an outdoor museum that was once the capital of the Silla Kingdom and holds many architectural points of interest including ornate temples. Also of interest is South Korea's largest temple, Tongdosa Temple, renowned for having no outdoor statues. Day 6 | Scenic Cruising: Hashima Island: Cruise around the island of Hashima, abandoned over 50 years ago when the coal mining that flourished there suddenly ran out. The mining company shut the mine down and the island has been a ghost town ever since. (Visibility depends on weather conditions.) Day 6 | Sasebo, Japan: With its beautiful ocean scenery, seaside promenade, and bright friendly atmosphere, romantic Sasebo has some interesting attractions and is the gateway to Nagasaki. Nagasaki is notable for the nuclear attack it suffered during World War II. A must-see there is the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Park, which houses a beautiful 30-foot-tall fountain symbolizing peace. Sasebo is part of the Saikai National Park, which consists of more than 400 islands and is valued for not only its lovely semi-tropical vegetation. Seishin Cathedral, a Neo-gothic church built in the 1930s is the symbol of Sasebo, which is the only Japanese city that uses a symbol of the Christian church as part of its flag. Day 7 | Yakushima, Japan: Another delightful small port, Yakushima has been a UNESCO site since 1993. This sub-tropical island is covered with an extensive cedar forest with trees that are 7,000 years old. Wildlife here includes the Yakushima deer and snow monkeys. A special Japanese liquor of rice, barley, sweet potatoes and buckwheat is made here. Day 9 | Shingu, Japan: For over 1,000 years pilgrims have traveled to the Kumano Region to pray at the three Sacred Kumano Shrines. In Shingu you can see the Hayatama Shrine and the Kamikura Shrine. Both of these shrines are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Sacred Sites of Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. The Kamikura Shrine sits on Mount Kamikurayama and requires climbing 538 steps to reach it. Day 10 | Shimizu, Japan: Most notably known as the city you can see the UNESCO site of Mount Fuji from. This small port city considered one of the three most beautiful ports in Japan has many historical building like Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, Sumpugo Park, and Shizuoka Sengen Shrine. The 65-foot Shiraito Waterfall, located near Mount Fuji looks like it could be silk. Enjoy tuna from Japan's largest fishery here or a cup of maccha, a Japanese green tea. Day 11 | Tokyo, Japan: There are so many interesting things about Tokyo it is not possible to list them here and you will want to plan to extend your stay. This is the place for excellent and unlimited shopping choices and from where new fashion trends seem to spring. It offers excellent cuisine and has earned mention on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Even though Tokyo's neon-lit streets make it seem modernistic, it also prides itself on retaining its shogun past, carrying on sumo tournaments and kabuki productions. Tokyo is also committed to providing green spaces in the city or on the outskirts, quickly reached by train. Day 13 | Kobe, Japan: Kobe is the 6th largest city in Japan and famous for its signature marbled beef. The Ikuta Shrine there is among Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to the 3rd century. Kobe is also the gateway to Mount Rokko, accessible by antique cable cars, and the outdoor hot springs of Arima Onsen. Other sites include the Sake Breweries, the Earthquake Museum, and Sorakuen Garden. Day 14 | Scenic Cruising Seto Inland Sea, Japan: The sparsely traveled Inland Sea separates three of the four main islands of Japan and is considered one of the most fascinating and little known parts of Japan. Its sheltered coasts include more than 700 islands and islets and is full of picturesque water towns, beautiful bicycling routes and many old-fashioned bathhouses. It is a unique blend of old and new Japan experienced by few people. Day 14 | Tomonoura, Japan: This picturesque port city is one of Windstar's iconic hidden harbors. Tomonoura is part of the Setonanikai National Park and features an endearing old-fashioned townscape. One of its thriving industries is the production of "homeishu," a medicinal liquor with 16 different herbs in it, said to promote longevity. Day 16 | Scenic Cruising: Hashima Island: Cruise around the island of Hashima, abandoned over 50 years ago when the coal mining that flourished there suddenly ran out. The mining company shut the mine down and the island has been a ghost town ever since. (Visibility depends on weather conditions.) Day 16 | Nagasaki, Japan: Notable for the nuclear attack it suffered during World War II, Nagasaki has memorialized the event at the city's Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Park. The museum tells the story of the events leading up to the bombing and the park, located at the center of the bomb blast, houses a beautiful 30-foot tall fountain symbolizing peace. Other highlights to see are the Glover Gardens and Dejima Museum, which was originally an artificial island. Day 17 | Yakushima, Japan: Another delightful small port, Yakushima has been a UNESCO site since 1993. This sub-tropical island is covered with an extensive cedar forest with trees that are 7,000 years old. Wildlife here includes the Yakushima deer and snow monkeys. A special Japanese liquor of rice, barley, sweet potatoes and buckwheat is made here. Day 18 | Amami Island, Japan: The tropical small port of Amami Island is well-known in Japan for the top-quality silk and dyes produce the highest-end kimonos. The white-sand beaches and warm, crystal-clear waters of Amami are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Amami is also known for Keihan, its unique chicken rice dish. Day 19 | Okinawa (Naha), Japan: Renowned for its scenic beauty, rich history and unique Chinese, Japanese and Korean culture, Okinawa is famous for its ceramic wares. Tsuboya Potter Museum is the place to visit to learn about this beautiful artform. You'll also want to see Shuri Castle and Shureimon Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kokusai Street, the main shopping area. Day 20 | Keelung (Taipei), China (Taiwan) : The modern metropolis and capital city of Taiwan is an interesting mix of Japanese, Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures. The skyline is dominated by the 1,671-foot, 101-storied, bamboo-shaped skyscraper, Taipei 101. Other highlights of Taipei include the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, Martyrs' Shrine which is an excellent example of classical Ming Dynasty architecture, and the Confucius Temple. Day 21 | Keelung (Taipei), China (Taiwan): The modern metropolis and capital city of Taiwan is an interesting mix of Japanese, Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures. The skyline is dominated by the 1,671-foot, 101-storied, bamboo-shaped skyscraper, Taipei 101. Other highlights of Taipei include the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, Martyrs' Shrine which is an excellent example of classical Ming Dynasty architecture, and the Confucius Temple. Day 23 | Hong Kong, China: The ship docks right in the heart of Hong Kong's harbor, putting you at the center of all manner of attractions. Watch sampans and junks glide through the waters of Aberdeen. Soak in the towering skyscrapers, peaceful green hillsides and world-famous Harbor from the top of Victoria Peak. Pursue bargains at Stanley Market. Have your fortune told at the Temple Street Night Market. Visit Lantau Island where a giant bronze Buddha holds court. Day 25 | Hundred Islands, Philippines: There are actually 124 islands at low tide, 123 at high tide in Hundred Islands National Park. Very few of the islands are inhabited but you will find lots of marine life, including crab-eating macaques, civets, dolphins, the occasional dugongs and a number of sea turtle species. Today is a day for island hopping, swimming, lounging on the beach or snorkeling. Day 26 | Manila, Philippines: Manila is considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world with a delightful blend of cultures and flavors. It has experienced Spanish, British, Japanese and American rule as evidenced in the variety of architecture. Sights to see in Manila include the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church. The city's Binondo neighborhood is home to the oldest Chinatown in the world. Rizal Park is home to many museums, themed gardens and other interesting sights. Overnighting in Manila will allow for plenty of time for the great shopping found there. Day 27 | Boracay, Philippines: Another day in tropical paradise. The beaches of Boracay are the feature on this small island only four miles long and half mile wide. Sunbathe on the powdery white sand of White Beach, consistently rated as one of the top beaches in the world, or spend some time snorkeling the pristine waters. Day 28 | Coron/Busuanga Island, Philippines: Coron is famous for divers and snorkelers due to the numerous well-preserved Japanese shipwrecks from WWII that are found there. Sought-after snorkeling sites include Siete Pecados, the Twin Lagoons and Atuwayan Beach. Coron itself is very small but offers beautiful beaches and is the jumping off place for island excursions and boat trips. Day 29 | Palawan Puerto Princesa, Philippines: Voted the "Best Island in the World" by Travel & Leisure Magazine in 2016, this island is a center for eco-tourism and home to multiple natural UNESCO sites including the coral reef Tubbataha and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, the longest navigable underground river in the world. Other highlights of Puerto Princesa include the Palawan Heritage Centre, Iwahiq Penal Colony and Immaculate Conception Church. Day 31 | Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia : Sandakan is the gateway to several eco-destinations like the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, the Gomantong Caves, the Kinabatangan River, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Turtle Island and the long Rainforest Directory Centre canopy walk. It is also very important for exports of palm oil, tobacco, cocoa and coffee. Day 34 | Makassar, Indonesia: The bustling cosmopolitan city of Makassar is full of attractions, Dutch historical sites, a waterfront boardwalk, architectural landmarks and Amirul Mukminin Mosque, a floating mosque with a double blue dome that can house 500 people. Pristine beaches are nearby where freshly caught seafood is a must try, as is the city's iconic dessert, Es Pisang Ijo, a banana wrapped in thin green dough, shaved ice, syrup and sweetened condensed milk. Day 35 | Loh Liang, Komodo National Park, Indonesia : The home to about 5,700 of the unique Komodo dragons, this park works to protect its biodiversity,. It has been declared both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Man and Biosphere Reserve. In addition to Komodo dragons, there are other notable wildlife here such as the orange-footed scrub fowl and the Timor deer. Marine life here finds more than 1,000 species of fish, 260 species of coral, Dugong sharks, manta rays, over 14 species of whales, dolphins and sea turtle, plus 70 species of sponges. Day 36 | Lembar, Lombok, Indonesia: Beautiful Lombok is a small, rarely visited port, offering a look at island life without large resorts. Dominating the island is Indonesia's second largest volcano, Gunung Rinjani, but this island is known for its lovely beaches and great surfing spots, deep turquoise-blue bays and massive headlands. Other sites of interest include Suranadii Temple, Narmada Temple and Pringgasela village. Day 37 | Benoa, Bali, Indonesia : Described as paradise, Bali's spectacular beauty is difficult to describe in words. The calm waters and beautiful white sand beaches of the small village of Benoa have made it the prime water sports area of Bali. Bali Volcano, also known as Mount Batur is a popular sightseeing destination with magnificent views from the Batur Caldera. Batik is still very popular in Bali and is considered one of the country's most highly developed art forms.
FOOD AND DINING
All meals in all venues at all times, including room service menu available 24-hours. All non-alcoholic beverages, including cappuccino, espresso, and other specialty non-alcoholic drinks are offered to guests. There is also a welcome cocktails reception as well. Options include Amphora Restaurant, Candles, Compass Rose, Veranda, Yacht Club Café, Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, Star Grill by Steven Raichlen, The Lounge and Star Bar.
ONBOARD ACTIVITIES/EVENTS
Guests are allowed unlimited access to use all water sports equipment and there is also on-board entertainment. A casino, library/computer center, lounge, pool, whirlpool, and screening room are also available for guests at their leisure.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Explore beautiful landmarks throughout your journey with many highlighted excursions. Below are just a few of the many that you can experience on your voyage.
Takamatsu Garden and Green Tea
Shodoshima Island Highlights
Takamatsu Highlights
Udon Noodle Making Experience and Garden
Hiroshima and Miyajima Full Day
Hiroshima Highlight Excursion
Miyajima Highlight Experience
Panoramic Hiroshima
Karatsu Culture and Panorama
Karatsu Highlights
Karatsu Highlights with Castle
Tea Ceremony at Kinshoji Temple and View of Karatsu
Busan Beautiful Harmony of Nature and Humanity
Busan City Highlights
Journey Back in Time, Gyeongju
Sea Breeze of Busan
Busan Tea Ceremony
Arita Porcelain Town
Best of Nagasaki Excursion
Scenic and Cultural Sasebo
Yakusugi Chopsticks Making Experience
Kiegensugi Ceder and Yakusugi Museum
Yakusughi Hike
Yakusugi Land Walking and Museum
Doro Gorge River Cruise
Kumano Kodo
Kumano Kodo Hiking
Oniga-jo Rocks and Shrines
Miho No Matsubara with Fresh Sashimi Lunch
Mount Fuji Cultural Experience
Mount Fuji Highlight
Sacred Toshogu and Nihondaira Ropeway
Himeji Highlights
Kobe Beef Dinner
Kobe Local Beef and Sake Brewery
Osaka Highlights
Traditional Kyoto
Fukuyamacastle and Myooin Temple
Onomichi - The Town of Panorama and Temples
Zen Meditation at Shinshoji Temple
Best of Nagasaki
Panoramic Nagasaki
Peace Memorial Park and Museum
The Pottery Town Arita and Nagasaki
Yakusugi Chopsticks Making Experience
Kiegensugi Ceder and Yakusugi Museum
Yakusughi Hike
Yakusugi Land Walking and Museum
Amami Island Highlights
Amami Island Local Experience
Amami Island Mangrove Forest Canoeing
Dyed Coral Experience and Shuri Castle
Okinawa, Naha Highlight
Okinawa War Heritage Experience
Essential Taipei
Taipei Lifestyle
Taipei Old and New
Island Escapade and Panoramic Experience with Governors Island Stop
Charms of Old Downtown Manila
Old & New Metropolis Journey
Tombs and Traditions of Manila
Motag Living Outdoor Museum
Coron Island Excurison with Maquinit Hotspring
Coron, Kayangan Lake and Siete Pecados
Panoramic Coron Island By Boat
Active Honda Bay Island Excursions
City Countryside and Wet Market
Underground River Journey
Makassar Highlights Excursion
Komodo National Trek
Fascinating Culture of Lombok
Sasak Tradtional Village and Kuta Beach
Sekotong and Cocotinos Beach
STATEROOMS OR CABINS
Guests can enjoy amenities including a queen size bed with luxurious linens, a waffle weave robe and slippers, a flat-screen television with DVD player, a full stocked mini-bar and refrigerator, safety deposit box, direct dial phone, luxury bath amenities, Wi-Fi access, fresh flowers and fruit, granite vanity with makeup mirror, walk-in closet with ample drawer space, bathroom with granite countertop, full-size tub and a shower, and hairdryers.
Gracious Balcony and Oceanview Suites | Where stylish comfort and oceanviews welcome you in 277-square-feet. Your queen bed, which can be separated as twins if you prefer, features luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers, savor a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.
Classic Suites | Relax in 400 to 530 spacious square-feet. Your living area offers beautiful views from the forward-facing window and French doors onto your private veranda. Two spacious closets give you plenty of room to unpack.
Owner's Suites Forward |With 575-square-feet, your Owner's Suite offers separate living room and dining areas. A veranda, two flat-screen televisions and DVD players, and a full master bath and separate powder room indulge you in spacious comfort.
Star Category Suites | As soon as you walk through the door, you're greeted with an open living area for a more welcoming entrance. Drift off to sleep by the window in your queen bed as you watch the same stars that sailors used to navigate the seas hundreds of years ago.
Star Porthole Suites | These suites represent a nod to the sailing tradition of porthole windows. And while sailors might have had cramped quarters, your 277-square-foot stateroom is wonderfully spacious and furnished with all the modern amenities and comforts of home.
Owner's Suites Midship | A stunning brand new owner's suites with 820-square-feet of space featuring two-bedrooms and two-bathrooms, a verandah, and plenty of space in the sitting area for entertaining. This is the most sought after suite on the entire ship and once you stay here, you'll never stay anywhere else.
Grand Owner's Suites Midship | The Owner's Suite Midship combines with the adjoining suite for a three-bedroom and three-bath suite totaling 1,374-square-feet. Bring your friends and share the suite like a villa, or luxuriate with just the two of you for accommodations as unique as your travels. There's no other suite like this at sea.
SPA
WindSpa | Available to guests who wish to take time and relax after an adventurous day out exploring.
FITNESS
There is a fitness center on board for guests who want to continue their workout while sailing.
OTHER INFO
Starting 02/20/2020, this all-suite ship will undergo a complete renovation to provide more of what guests love. New public areas, including a two new dining venues, a new spa, infinity pool, and fitness area. The ship also boasts all new bathrooms in every suite and a new category of Star suites, featuring a new layout that would expand itself to carry 312 guests. With oceanviews and over 277-square-feet of comfort, Star Breeze is the perfect ship to watch glaciers and fjords drift by from the serenity of your suite.
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