Windstar Cruises has opened bookings for its 2027 Japan sailings early. This is due to the near sell-out of 2026 cruises.
The company has experienced an unprecedented demand for its 2026 sailings in Japan aboard its newest ship Star Seeker.
That new ship still under construction will join the company’s fleet in December of 2025.
In response, Windstar is now opening up spring 2027 bookings for Japan earlier than planned. And is adding an extra autumn date, in order to meet customers’ requests. They are asking for more bookable sailings in this popular region.
Travelling from Tokyo to Kyoto, Windstar’s 10-night Grand Japan itinerary packs in a variety of the country’s highlights. Plus a stop in Busan, South Korea on what is an intimate cruise.
Unprecedented demand
Janet Bava is the Chief Commercial Officer at Windstar Cruises. She said, “Just months after announcing our 2026 plans in Japan, we’re nearly sold out.” She added, “The combination of our return to Asia for the first time since 2023, along with the anticipation of a new ship and the fact that Japan is now one of the world’s most visited countries, has created an excitement for this region that we have not seen before.”
Star Seeker will cross the Pacific from Alaska to Japan in early September 2026, where Windstar will bring back its popular itinerary on five dates through October. The spring 2027 sailings will take place on seven dates from March through May.
Japan highlights
Grand Japan highlights include scenic cruising the Inland Sea; sailing around the abandoned island of Hashima; visiting the Peace Memorial Parks of Nagasaki and Hiroshima; and calling on smaller ports like Takamatsu (famous for its gardens and Udon) and Karatsu, including its incredible castle. Cruisers can extend their stay with the Kyoto & the Zen of Japan Cruise Tour, featuring inland tours to Kyoto where guests can bathe in hot springs, experience a traditional tea ceremony, and visit the Golden Pavilion.
Of course, spring dates mean the potential to experience Japan ’s famed cherry blossoms, and Star Seeker’s accommodations are poised for ample spring season sightseeing as most have balconies and infinity windows.
2027 Japan prices start from £5,702 per person based on the cruise departing 21st March.
To accompany the offer, Windstar has an early booking offer of a complimentary upgrade to all-inclusive fares, which include Wi-Fi, gratuities and unlimited select beer, wine and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom. The offer expires 28th February 2025. In addition, only a 15% deposit is required to book, with final payment required just 120 days before sailing.