Trade Cold for Gold

Trade the cold for gold and escape the winter’s chill.  Sail aboard Wind Spirit as she island-hops the Canary Islands during winter 2026 and early 2027.

Enjoy camel rides, volcanic adventures, and warm starlit skies on a cruise unlike anything you’ve sailed before.

Wind Spirit debuts in the Canary Islands with 9-night voyages from November 2026 through January 2027.

These new Trade Cold for Gold itineraries focus on uncrowded ports, immersive local culture, and sunny weather perfect for off-season exploration.

Following a successful 2025 introduction, Windstar Cruises returns with upgraded sailings and enhanced onboard experiences.

Now featuring new ports, including Porto Santo and El Hierro, hidden gems unreachable by most large ships.

Porto Santo offers golden sands, quiet cafés, historic sites, and hikes, just 27 miles from Madeira.

El Hierro, a UNESCO Global Geopark, features lava pools, hiking trails, and a relaxed, off-the-radar atmosphere.

These additions showcase Windstar’s small-ship advantage, visiting destinations too remote for larger cruise liners.

Guests can expect Windstar’s signature blend of comfort, discovery, and intimacy across these revamped itineraries.

Every port is brought to life with expert-led excursions and culturally immersive onshore experiences.

Highlights include camel rides across Lanzarote’s dunes and toboggan runs through Madeira’s hillside streets.

Visit La Palma for world-class stargazing in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its clear, dark skies.

Toast the New Year in Madeira with front-row views of its legendary fireworks display.

Swim in volcanic pools and dine under stars after hiking El Hierro’s dramatic coastline.

Extend your trip

Extend your trip with a 13+ night Star Collector Voyage or Madrid Cruise Tour.

These trade cold for gold options allow guests to pair city exploration with tranquil island living.

Looking ahead to Christmas? The Canary Islands make an unexpected yet unforgettable winter holiday escape.

December temperatures hover around 73°F—ideal for a festive break without frost or snow.

Canary Islands Christmas traditions include seafood feasts and late-night carol serenades under warm, starry skies.

The streets fill with Rondallas de los Divinos, performing spontaneous holiday music into the night.

Refreshed from bow to stern

This season, Wind Spirit has been refreshed from bow to stern.

Enjoy redesigned suites and staterooms, an upgraded spa and fitness area, and refreshed public spaces.

Windstar’s marina platform debuts in select Canary ports, offering paddleboards, kayaks, and oceanfront lounging right off the stern.

Through 31st August 2025, guests booking early receive Windstar’s complimentary All-Inclusive Package.

This package includes WiFi, select drinks, gratuities, and onboard credit, worth over £500 per stateroom.

Onboard credit may be used toward spa treatments, excursions, or other indulgences.

Guests who pay in full at booking receive an extra 5% cruise fare discount with Pay Now, Save More.

This promotion may be combined with the All-Inclusive offer for even greater value.

With fewer crowds, more sunshine, and enriching culture, the Canary Islands shine in the winter months.

Trade Cold for Gold. Because  now’s the time to trade snow for sand and cold winds for golden memories.