windstar cruises gluten free

Windstar Cruises

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

By aaaaa , October 23, 2023 in Windstar Cruises

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You beat me to this topic! I have yet to hear any reviews/feedback on vegan options. I would like to know if the outside grill has vegan burgers as options and if there is a variety of vegan desserts. We hope the vegan menu is creative and includes classic vegan comfort foods. Thanks!

new_cruiser

I'm on board Wind Surf now - cruise started yesterday. I noticed that Amphora menu last night had both a "plant-based" item and a vegetarian item. There was also a plant-based dessert. There were plant-based items on the lunch buffet yesterday (I remember there being a chili and cookies) and on the breakfast buffet this morning (including a tofu scramble and plant-based muffin).

Sorry, I don't know what classic vegan comfort foods would be so can't speak to that.

Second seating

I tried some of the plant-based items that were GF on our cruise in May on the Legend, some were very good taste wise. Some the texture was lacking for the described item. Please note not all plant based items are GF. I am an excellent cook and baker who now is gluten free (not vegan) so I am picky! Second seating

ridethetide

I found the plant-based menu to be interesting and tasty. I am vegetarian, not vegan and not gluten-free. The only place where plant-based options were missing was in the serving of hors d'oeuvres with cocktails. My recent cruise in Iceland was my 10th WS cruise, and I have always mentioned this lack of vegetarian options on my surveys. I guess nobody has taken my suggestions seriously. The vegetarian meal options, however, are plentiful and delicious.

12 hours ago, new_cruiser said: Sorry, I don't know what classic vegan comfort foods would be so can't speak to that.

Hi new_cruiser,

Thanks for the information - this is helpful! By "vegan comfort foods," I was simply referring to junk food - i.e., burgers, hot dogs, fries, nuggets, pancakes, tacos, french toast, etc.

1 hour ago, ridethetide said: I found the plant-based menu to be interesting and tasty. I am vegetarian, not vegan and not gluten-free. The only place where plant-based options were missing was in the serving of hors d'oeuvres with cocktails. My recent cruise in Iceland was my 10th WS cruise, and I have always mentioned this lack of vegetarian options on my surveys. I guess nobody has taken my suggestions seriously. The vegetarian meal options, however, are plentiful and delicious.

This is not good news for vegans. We are a bit concerned that we will be forced to eat the same food day in and out due to a lack of variety. If this is the case, I know that WS will not be our cruise line of choice.

I am an accomplished cook, I love food, the history, the culture, the chemistry, the creating. I love real, unprocessed food. When I travel food and immersing myself in the cultures through food is important to me. On my last cruise with Windstar the food was delicious but I was mystified with " plant based ". We tried the " cheese cake " and it was grim that is being nice. Not the fault of the chef because naming an item "cheese" when there is absolutely no cheese or dairy is in my opinion odd. Name it what it is a brown cake that is heavy, with a whipped topping some kind of oil made to look like, but not taste like frosting. I perseverated on this and did research these two words showed up time and again " ultra processed ". What is wrong with real food, Mediterranean Diet, nothing healthier. I wrote Chris Prelog about this for I have never seen it on WS's menus until this year. His answer was they have had requests.

Who am I, but for the life of me given the chemicals, the whipped oils, some coloring I do not see how that is good for anyone. We were disappointed in the Tapas restaurant it seemed the " plant based" made the menu for us lacking. I have been to Spain many times never heard of " plant based " tapas. Each to our own... Happy Sailing.

1 hour ago, Strenz said: I am an accomplished cook, I love food, the history, the culture, the chemistry, the creating. I love real, unprocessed food. When I travel food and immersing myself in the cultures through food is important to me. On my last cruise with Windstar the food was delicious but I was mystified with " plant based ". We tried the " cheese cake " and it was grim that is being nice. Not the fault of the chef because naming an item "cheese" when there is absolutely no cheese or dairy is in my opinion odd. Name it what it is a brown cake that is heavy, with a whipped topping some kind of oil made to look like, but not taste like frosting. I perseverated on this and did research these two words showed up time and again " ultra processed ". What is wrong with real food, Mediterranean Diet, nothing healthier. I wrote Chris Prelog about this for I have never seen it on WS's menus until this year. His answer was they have had requests. Who am I, but for the life of me given the chemicals, the whipped oils, some coloring I do not see how that is good for anyone. We were disappointed in the Tapas restaurant it seemed the " plant based" made the menu for us lacking. I have been to Spain many times never heard of " plant based " tapas. Each to our own... Happy Sailing.

Besides the obvious health benefits to limiting your consumption of animal fats, many who eat plant-based diets, myself included, do so for ethical reasons. I personally would rather that an animal did not die for my dinner. I do not criticize those who choose to eat meat or fish, but I want to maintain the option to be vegetarian at home and when I travel. I applaud WS for adding the plant-based diet to their menu. It might not meet with your approval, but I am certain that it has pleased and will continue to please many WS passengers. I strongly believe that you are mistaken that the plant-based menu items on the WS ships are "ultra-processed" and are simply whipped oils, chemicals and coloring.

The good news is that WS now offers menus that will suit the dietary needs and desires of those who choose to be plant-based and will not affect the menus of those who are omnivorous.

Happy Sailing!

7 hours ago, gsutiger2 said: This is not good news for vegans. We are a bit concerned that we will be forced to eat the same food day in and out due to a lack of variety. If this is the case, I know that WS will not be our cruise line of choice.

@aaaa and @gsutiger2 Have you heard of these dedicated plant-based Windstar cruises? Sounds like it may be what you are looking for in a cruise!

Plant-Based Travel - National Health Association (healthscience.org)

2025 Windstar WFPB Tahiti Cruise - Papeete to Papeete - National Health Association (healthscience.org)

2024 Costa Rica & The Panama Canal - Colon to Puerto Caldera - National Health Association (healthscience.org)

5 hours ago, ridethetide said: Besides the obvious health benefits to limiting your consumption of animal fats, many who eat plant-based diets, myself included, do so for ethical reasons. I personally would rather that an animal did not die for my dinner. I do not criticize those who choose to eat meat or fish, but I want to maintain the option to be vegetarian at home and when I travel. I applaud WS for adding the plant-based diet to their menu. It might not meet with your approval, but I am certain that it has pleased and will continue to please many WS passengers. I strongly believe that you are mistaken that the plant-based menu items on the WS ships are "ultra-processed" and are simply whipped oils, chemicals and coloring. The good news is that WS now offers menus that will suit the dietary needs and desires of those who choose to be plant-based and will not affect the menus of those who are omnivorous. Happy Sailing!

I sometimes have to make things that are dairy free. I can make a reasonable cream cheese substitute from cashews and I've used dairy substitute products from companies such as Mykonos and Kite that have simple normal ingredients so it doesn't have to be over processed to be vegan.

I fear that Windstar may be trying to cover too many dietary limitations at once with it's plant based items. The description of the indicator on the Amphora menu says they are also free of gluten, sugar and oils.

The additional exclusions probably don't affect items such as chili and tofu scramble much. They normally wouldn't have gluten or sugar. (Sorry, I can't taste those to check the quality - They contain an ingedient that I have an allergy to.)

It's desserts where the extra limitations are likely to change the nature of the product too much. I tried one of the plant based chocolate cookies. I wasn't a fan of the texture. It wasn't terrible but oddly gummy.

8 hours ago, gsutiger2 said: This is not good news for vegans. We are a bit concerned that we will be forced to eat the same food day in and out due to a lack of variety. If this is the case, I know that WS will not be our cruise line of choice.

There has been lots of variety in the plant-based items offered, but I haven't seen any of the junk food items you mentioned so far. There is a vegetarian burger, but not a vegan one.

2 weeks later...

Any vegan options for room service breakfast?

Any vegan pancakes or waffles in restaurants?

1 month later...

For vegans searching for information about Windstar offerings, allow me to share my 2023 experience. We were on Pride and thoroughly enjoyed the cruise line! We will never go back to monster ships. However, the food (which I know is subjective) was a major major issue for us.

Please note we are fully aware and understand that plant-based and vegan are different. We eat and enjoy both.

While we did not expect the same level of variety as non-vegan or vegetarian passengers, we were disappointed to find that we were often left with no other option but to eat salad, beets, or chili for lunch almost every day. Our food always felt like an "afterthought."

This lack of variety became particularly frustrating when we were served what appeared to be frozen Dr. Praeger's burgers. We informed Windstar of our vegan dietary requirements well in advance and even confirmed this information with our travel agent closer to the departure date to ensure they had time to order/cultivate a menu if we were the only vegans onboard. However, the galley seemed unprepared to cater to the dietary restrictions, and they appeared to have to devise a plan of action once we were on board. As a result, we felt we were not given the same consideration as non-vegan or vegetarian passengers.

We were disappointed that the money we paid did not translate into a minuscule -comparable range of options to those enjoyed by non-vegan or vegetarian passengers. For instance, we had to request vegan pancakes for breakfast and rely on room service as the buffet offered no hot plant-based/vegan breakfast items. Moreover, we were disappointed to find that deck hors d'oeuvres, beach BBQ, and the ice cream social offered us no plant-based/vegan options.

Let me give you clear examples of how the money we paid did not in any way come close to the options as vegetarians:

Vegan Options Offered/Provided

Breakfast – I had to ask them if they could make vegan pancakes. We stuck with room service as the buffet had no HOT plant-based/vegan breakfast items readily available.
Beach BBQ - Salad and chips
Verandah Lunch – Salad, beets, chili (some days), mushy Dr. Praeger's "like" burger
Dinner – Salad, Asian tofu and rice (3 days), mushroom pasta that seemed thrown together with leftover prepped items. We were presented with a bowl full of mushrooms with sauce! I dislike mushrooms, but unfortunately, that was my ONLY option for dinner!
Dessert - The cruise offered no vegan ice cream warm plant-based/vegan options (i.e., apple pie). The plant-based desserts were all cold, weird textures, and lacked flavor.
Deck Hors d'oeuvres – never any plant-based or vegan options offered to us.
Ice Cream Social – no vegan ice cream

Easy replacements I compiled based on the ingredients I saw used onboard:

Beach BBQ – BBQ jackfruit burgers, grilled BBQ tofu, BBQ beans, grillable vegan quinoa and chickpea burgers, grilled vegetable skewers, pasta salad, etc. For vegan - impossible or beyond burgers is an easy option!
Lunch – tacos (rice, beans, etc.), vegan pizza (add vegan cheese), falafel, harvest bowls, tabbouleh salads, black bean nachos, avocado tacos, vegan BLT sandwiches, marinated tofu kabobs, tofu popcorn chicken, vegan tuna, chickpea burgers, HUMMUS, plantains, rice and peas (Caribbean), sweet potato tacos, tofu caprese, pesto pasta, tofu and pineapple sandwiches, buddha bowls
Dinner – Pasta (remove the meat)! Fettuccine Alfredo (cashew cheese), vegetable lasagne, olive tapenade, pasta with Asian style dressing, lobster rolls with hearts of palm, vegetable fritters, rice pilaf, herb bread, lemon roasted potatoes, black bean stuffed sweet potatoes with guacamole, vegan caesar salad, Singapore noodles.
Dessert – vegan cookies and ice cream

I looked at the food they offered the general public and could EASILY identify plant-based/vegan options with no new ingredients. We really liked Windstar and hope they will take recommendations into consideration and expand the plant-based/vegan options on their menu in the future. Having only 1-2 options per day was frustrating, and I couldn't wait to get to a vegan-friendly restaurant at ports.

The dining crew was amazing, and you can tell they really tried to find other options available.

If the food situation is rectified - Windstar would have easily been a solid 10 for us.

On 11/5/2023 at 5:34 PM, gsutiger2 said: Any vegan options for room service breakfast? Any vegan pancakes or waffles in restaurants? Thank you

You need to write in "vegan" on the room service card. However, I would have a conversation with the dining manager before you do this to ensure the galley knows how to cook this. By the 7th day - the pancakes got better.

I did not see any vegan pancakes or waffles in the restaurant. The only hot plant-based/vegan item I found in the breakfast buffet was potatoes.

Would you consider taking one of the NHA Vegan cruises I mentioned in post #10? That sounds like a good solution to have the large variety and quality of food you want with a Windstar ship's crew service and amenities. Is there any reason you know of for a person who eats a vegan diet to NOT take that group's cruise?

Nearpost345

I was on the Legend last spring, and got the sense there was some passive aggressive push back going on from the kitchen. The vegan, plant based and sugar free options were abysmal. As mentioned previously, the plant based burger was not to be taken seriously. I’ll eat anything and am well pleased with my dining options on Windstar, but I empathize with passengers who have special dietary requirements.

7 hours ago, oakridger said: Would you consider taking one of the NHA Vegan cruises I mentioned in post #10? That sounds like a good solution to have the large variety and quality of food you want with a Windstar ship's crew service and amenities. Is there any reason you know of for a person who eats a vegan diet to NOT take that group's cruise? Thanks, ~Nancy

What are NHA Vegan cruises?

FlaviaOfTheMonth

We sailed the Wind Spirit in 2021 and I found eating as a vegan to be fairly easy. At that time they did not have any specifically vegan creations but a ton of the regular menu and buffet stuff worked. At that time I don't think I would have even considered asking for "vegan pancakes" as it is too much to ask the kitchen to cater to a couple, or in my case, the only vegan on the ship.

I'm glad to hear they are increasing the options for vegans. In particular the beach BBQ events -- lunch and dinner -- in the South Pacific could have used a vegan option other than salad.

19 hours ago, oakridger said: Would you consider taking one of the NHA Vegan cruises I mentioned in post #10? That sounds like a good solution to have the large variety and quality of food you want with a Windstar ship's crew service and amenities. Is there any reason you know of for a person who eats a vegan diet to NOT take that group's cruise? Thanks, ~Nancy

19 hours ago, Nearpost345 said: I was on the Legend last spring, and got the sense there was some passive aggressive push back going on from the kitchen. The vegan, plant based and sugar free options were abysmal. As mentioned previously, the plant based burger was not to be taken seriously. I’ll eat anything and am well pleased with my dining options on Windstar, but I empathize with passengers who have special dietary requirements.

Hi Nancy - yes, we checked out those cruises. We are pretty well traveled and have visited most of those locations. In addition, there is a large vegan cruise with top vegan chefs and experts in March 2024. We decided against that as it is on a monster ship and during spring break. We ultimately chose Windstar as they had been advertising their new plant based offerings.

Nearpost- I totally agree and that's the vibe we got. Everyone was nice, but I ultimately felt this plant based push was from corporate and not truly thought through.

2 hours ago, FlaviaOfTheMonth said: We sailed the Wind Spirit in 2021 and I found eating as a vegan to be fairly easy. At that time they did not have any specifically vegan creations but a ton of the regular menu and buffet stuff worked. At that time I don't think I would have even considered asking for "vegan pancakes" as it is too much to ask the kitchen to cater to a couple, or in my case, the only vegan on the ship. I'm glad to hear they are increasing the options for vegans. In particular the beach BBQ events -- lunch and dinner -- in the South Pacific could have used a vegan option other than salad.

Lactose intolerant people or those with dairy allergies may also ask for "vegan pancakes". Believe me, breakfast was the only hot meal we could eat and get somewhat full from. After I realized the weak plant based offerings, I had to rely on pancakes for breakfast and rice for dinner. We rarely eat pancakes at home.

They had plenty of plant based milk available which was good news!

We were on a 10 day crossing via Greenland in the fall on the Star Pride. My hobby and interest is food, love cooking and experimenting and the culture/ history of food. I love pure food, eat organic at home but realize on a ship that is not possible which is fine. We tried the vegan cuisine once, I was curious because I have read that a lot about this food and the ultra processing. We tried the Vegan Cheese Cake and it was inedible. I do not understand why it has to be called " cheese cake " , no cheese. I was hesitant to try anything else and what I have read about vegan meat like dishes is the processing. I respect people's tastes, dietary and religious needs, beliefs, health issues etc it seems to me real vegetables, fruits, grains, seeds, olive oils, pastas of terrific quality, is far better health wise than these made up ultra processed foods. I was told on my cruise of 190 people there were no vegans and was told from a crew member there was a lot of waste.

Perhaps people should state their food preferences to the cruise line prior to so the ship can judge how many vegan eaters there are or kosher folks, etc so there is not as much waste. This was the first WS cruise we saw with vegan items and our 28 th WS cruise. Happy Sailing

2 hours ago, gsutiger2 said: Lactose intolerant people or those with dairy allergies may also ask for "vegan pancakes". Believe me, breakfast was the only hot meal we could eat and get somewhat full from. After I realized the weak plant based offerings, I had to rely on pancakes for breakfast and rice for dinner. We rarely eat pancakes at home. They had plenty of plant based milk available which was good news!

I must have gotten lucky as the chef on our cruise came to me each morning to discuss an option for dinner that night. Generally it was just a variation of something that was already on the menu. I will say they subbed tofu for meat several times but we were on board for 17 nights. That seems like the best "recipe" to me -- make normal items that can be slightly modified for vegan or no-dairy guests.

18 hours ago, ridethetide said: What are NHA Vegan cruises?

They are detailed in post #10 above. Basically, on the Tahiti itinerary the whole ship has only the plant-based food offered for the whole cruise. I wonder if the sponsor group brings on their own chef to supervise or provide recipes? I checked yesterday and the February 2025 cruise is listed as already sold out and waitlisted! The 2024 Costa Rica/Panama Canal trip is offering both separate plant-based meals and also regular Windstar meals in a separate dining room (?).

I was going to take that cruise, but when Windstar told me about the food offerings, I decided to spend the week on Moorea instead. I do like my seafood and other meats!

Good luck everyone!

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How to Stay Gluten-Free on Your Cruise

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Windstar Cruises

Gluten Free Dining?

By Second seating , May 24, 2014 in Windstar Cruises

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I'm not GF, but I have numerous serious food allergies, and they handled it all brilliantly. As on any ship, lunch seemed to be the trickiest, but use your common sense, ask a lot if questions, and err in the side of caution.

3 weeks later...

We had a family member with us on our last cruise ( in January) who was not only gluten intolerant but also has issues with soy and sugar. She even brought her own special protein shakes, in case there were not enough choices for her. We were on the Windsurf and they were wonderful at accommodating her food restrictions.

Be sure to mention gluten free in the notes when you sign up for the cruise. It is much easier for them to accommodate when they know in advance.

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Has Anyone Cruised Windstar?

By mbr22m November 4, 2014 in Traveling with Celiac Disease

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Eat only in the main dining room. No room service. Get to personally know your head waiter and staff. I track them down after boarding and they can provide me with that first lunch when the main dining room is often closed. Ask about snacks. I had some prepackaged cookies, etc. Delivered to our room throughout the cruise as directed by my headwaiter. He also delivered frozen pizzas to the coffee shop so that I could order them in the afternoon after touring all day. We had to wait 30 minutes, but we were happy to have food!

In fact, I got to know several head waiters during each cruise. They did a little consulting with me, especially with the bar drinks. Our waiter ordered fresh baked gluten-free muffins and breads for all our meals. We discussed all food items with him at each meal.

We tipped big! And I wrote personal letters to the cruise lines thanking and mentioning each person who helped me.

I drink soymilk in my free cruise coffee and got some each time from the Starbucks counter free.

Grab apples and bananas, wash them and take them ashore. I saved my home packaged goods for those excursions.

Bring food for the flight. Even when you notify the airlines, they can and will mess up! Be prepared!

Thank you, cyclinglady! This is my first time traveling with celiac. We usually vacation nearby and I bring a cooler with me.

2 weeks later...

I highly doubt you'll have any problems with a Windstar cruise.....especially in Europe. They are a high end cruise line so that is a big plus and Europeans accommodate Celiac Disease well and understand cc. I have been to the UK many times since my diagnosis..never had any problems and I am quite sensitive. I have a friend who does European river cruises every year and she noticed they accommodated Celiac Disease and no one was complaining they had gotten sick. She encouraged me to do one so that is in my future.

You are going to be surprised at the differences between the States and Europe regarding Celiac. We are treated well and it is no big deal for them to accommodate!

I hope you have a great time!

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general information

General information, click on a topic below to be taken to that section.

About Windstar Airline Delays Alcohol On Board Policy Baggage Policy Baggage Tags Beverage Packages Boarding Procedure Bon Voyage Gifts Cancellation Policy Cell Phone Service Children Communications At Sea Cruise Extensions Cruise Fares Customs Registration and Duty-Free Allowance/Import Restrictions Departure Tax Deposit and Final Payment Requirements Dining With Windstar Disembarkation Procedures Fares, Non-Discountable Amount, Taxes and Surcharges Food Allergies and Special Dietary Needs Guests With Disabilities Hotel Service Charge Immunization Late Booking Policy Luggage Forwarding Service Medical Facilities, Infants And Pregnancy Policy Packing Advice Passengers Under 21 Passport and Visa Information Pricing Errors & Booking Errors Pets Prohibited Items Reconfirming Airline Reservations Refund Policy and Instructions Services On Board Smoking Policy Ships Positioning in Ports Sports and Activities Transfers/Pre- & Post- Cruise Services Travel Protection Plan Value Added Tax Wet Landings

About Windstar

Casually Elegant - Windstar's 180 degress from ordinary cruise experience breeds relaxation. Our casually elegant design is comprised of three elements: the ship design, combined with a Luxury As You Like It® onboard environment, and our pampering without pretense attitude. The Ship Design - Each ship, whether it has graceful, billowing sails or is a sleek and sexy all-suite motor ship will give you the small ship advantage, designed to be functional and comfortable. There are public and private places. Lots of light and air, ocean views everywhere. Simple and superb – beautifully appointed staterooms and suites. An inviting layout, easy to get around. The natural fabrics and rich woods are impeccably maintained. These relaxed and stylish ships are large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into delightful tiny harbors and hidden coves others can’t reach, just like your own private yacht. The Environment - Unregimented. Unstructured. Giving you the freedom to choose to have all the privacy you want, or to be pampered. Design your experience to be as inclusive – or not – as you want. You have the flexibility to include flights, hotel (pre/post cruise), shore excursions, beverage packages, and other onboard amenities to your cruise. Service that is attentive when you need it to be. A warm, smiling crew who get to know what you like. The Bridge is almost always open for your visit. There are many activities at hand, but they are never imposed. The Dress Code - from 7 am - 6 pm guests are welcome to dress as they please with the exception of no swimwear in all public lounges and restaurants and no clothing with offensive language or graphics that distract from the comfort and well-being of others. The general shipboard style is elegant, but relaxed including jeans and Bermuda/ walking shorts. In the evening - after 6 pm when dining in Amphora, Stella Bistro or Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, the dress code is country club-type clothing. For men - nice slacks, polo shirts, button down shirts, shoes other than athlectic shoes. Designer denim jeans without rips or holes or are multi-colores are also acceptable. Sport coats are optional. Ties are not needed. For women - nice pants, skirts, tops, casual dresses, sundresses, nice sandals or casual shoes and designer denim dress jeans not ripped or multi-colored or having holes. Blazers are optional. No assigned seating in Amphora or Veranda restaurants. And what can be more casual than merely signing for onboard purchases? You will feel like this is your ship, your personal yacht. The environment inspires the attitude. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board. The Attitude - Casually Elegant is an attitude, brought about by a luxurious ship design and an environment of freedom ... allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation exactly as you would like to. The attitude is found in our crew too. They are efficient in an unassuming, relaxed way. They are respectful of our guests, pampering without pretense. Flexible. Approachable. And experienced in knowing people and the role service plays in the enjoyment of your vacation. The Luxury As You Like It attitude of a Windstar ship is also reflected in the way our guests dress: Imaginative, yet relaxed. Stylish, yet comfortable. Just as you would dress at an elegant resort. Clothes that are light and cool, made of natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen, are most appropriate. For women's daytime wear, we suggest walking shorts, skirts, sarongs, lightweight tops and cover-ups; for evening wear, sun dresses, pants, and informal cocktail attire. Men's daytime wear: walking/ Bermuda shorts, polo shirts, khaki pants; in the evening, lightweight trousers and short-sleeved dress/polo shirts. No suits or ties. And no shorts, flip-flops, ripped or torn jeans, hats or t-shirts in Amphora or Candles during the evening. If your cruise takes you to Monte Carlo, please note that casinos there require men to wear both a tie and a jacket.

Airline Delays

If you believe a delay will cause you to arrive in the port of embarkation less than 2 hours before the ship's scheduled departure, call us at 800-338-4962. Representatives are available 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday, Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Outside of these hours and during holidays, call 206-733-2991 (emergency use only).

Alcohol On Board Policy

Passengers are allowed to bring aboard two (2) bottles of wine or champagne (750ml) per cabin for their enjoyment on board for a 7-day Cruise or three (3) bottles for an 8-day (or longer) Cruise. Passengers may consume these permitted outside beverages in public areas on the ship, but a small corkage fee (approximately US$15 + 18% gratuity) will be applied to the Passenger’s onboard account. All additional outside alcohol (meaning wine, beer and/or hard alcohol) including alcohol purchased at ports of call along the Cruise route, will be kept by the ship’s staff and delivered to the Passenger’s cabin the last evening of the Cruise.

Baggage Policy; Prohibited Items

Windstar will carry as baggage only your personal effects consisting of wearing apparel, toilet articles and similar items for your wearing, comfort or convenience during the Cruise and not belonging to or intended for use by any other person or for sale. Radioactive materials, controlled substances (other than lawfully obtained prescription drugs), firearms, ammunition, weapons, fireworks, aerial drones, clothing irons, and illicit or hazardous materials are strictly prohibited. Passengers are allowed to bring aboard two (2) bottles of wine or champagne (750ml) per cabin for their enjoyment onboard for a 7-day Cruise or three (3) bottles for an 8-day (or longer) Cruise. Passengers may consume these permitted outside beverages in public areas on the ship, but a small corkage fee (approximately US$15 + 18% gratuity) will be applied to the Passenger’s onboard account. All additional outside alcohol (meaning wine, beer and/or hard alcohol) including alcohol purchased at ports of call along the Cruise route, will be kept by the ship’s staff and delivered to the Passenger’s cabin the last evening of the Cruise.For loading and unloading the ship and other means of transportation, all baggage must be tendered for carriage in securely constructed and locked suitcases or trunks. All baggage must be able to be safely stowed in your cabin on the ship. The only animals permitted to accompany you are recognized service dogs for passengers with disabilities; you are responsible for complying with governmental health, documentation and other requirements as to recognized service dogs. Windstar does not assume any liability for any loss of or damage to or delay of perishable items, medicine, liquor, cash, credit or debit cards, passports, travel documents, jewelry, gold, silver, or similar valuables, securities, financial instruments or other valuable business documents, computers, cellular telephones, laptops or tablet computers, cameras, hearing aids, electric wheelchairs, scooters, or other video or electronic equipment, binoculars, film, videotapes, computer discs, audio discs, tapes or CDs. These items should not be left lying about the ship or your stateroom or suite, nor should they be left unattended on other vessels, on vehicles or in hotels, nor placed in luggage other than a bag that you carry with you. In addition, Windstar will not assume any liability for any loss of or damage to carry-on baggage left unattended on the ship or on other modes of transportation or in hotels. Windstar ships provide stateroom or suite safes at no extra charge. Certain hotels may also provide similar facilities. Your use of stateroom or suite safes or similar facilities will not increase Windstar's liability, as described here. Windstar cannot be responsible for any loss or damage that occurs before baggage comes into Windstar's actual custody when you begin your travel with us or after baggage leaves Windstar's actual custody at the end of your travel with us. In particular, please note that we assume no responsibility for loss, damage, or delay while baggage is in the custody of airlines. If Windstar is liable for loss of, damage to, or delay of your property, the amount of Windstar's liability will not exceed US$100 (US$600 for guests who have purchased the Cancellation Protection Plan) unless you have specified to Windstar in writing the true value of your property and paid to Windstar before departure 1% of the value in excess of US$100 or US$600, as applicable. In that event, Windstar's liability will be limited to the amount so specified.

Baggage Tags

All checked luggage must be tagged with your name, address and phone number. Also attach a baggage tag to each piece of luggage, including carry-on bags, and mark your name and stateroom or suite number clearly.

Beverage Packages

While non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary, you may enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail under the setting sun or a champagne toast at the evening Sail Away with our beverage packages for wine, beer, cocktails and more. Zero-proof cocktails are also included with our Captain's Exclusive and All-In packages. Find the perfect wine pairing with your meal and then end the night sipping scotch as you contemplate the stars. Topmast Discoveries Beer & Wine Package - $55 per person per day An extensive package of diverse and intriguing wines from traditional European winegrowing terroirs to New World regions. Includes domestic and imported beer and 33 varieties of wine by the glass. Captain's Exclusive Beverage Package - $65 per person per day The ultimate beverage package and the perfect way to try new drinks for a bit of added adventure. Includes all domestic and imported beers and 33 varieties of wine/sparkling/champagne by the glass PLUS cordials, liqueurs, apertifs, cocktails and even mini bar items. (Cocktails based on house & select brands) The All-In Package - From $89 per person per day. Have it all by making it an all-inclusive voyage with Wi-Fi, unlimited beer, wine & cocktails, and gratuities, including the 18% beverage service charge. A convenient bundle that saves time and money, pays most of your expenses upfront and avoids the European VA Tax when pre-purchased. The All-In Package is sold per person and must be purchased up to 5 days prior to departure at $89. On board the All-In Package can be purchased for $99. The Topmast, Captain’s Exclusive, and All-In Packages are sold per person and must be purchased in advance or during the first 2 days of your cruise and for the full duration of the cruise. Prices for the Topmast and Captain’s Exclusive Packages do not include the standard 18% beverage service charge. Package prices are inclusive of applicable taxes. The minimum drinking age aboard Windstar Cruises is 21 years old.

Boarding Procedure

Embarkation time is 1:00 p.m. All guests should be on board no later than 1 hour before departure. Passports are collected upon embarkation and held safely by the Purser's Office until the end of the cruise. You will be issued a receipt for your passport and a card key for access to your stateroom/suite and access on and off the ship. TRANSFERS Windstar Cruises Air/Hotel Packages: If you have booked your air or hotel accommodations through Windstar Cruises, transfers are NOT included and have to be purchased separately. Services for Windstar cruise-only guests (individuals who do not purchase air transportation or cruise extensions from Windstar) begin with embarkation at the noted time in your cruise documents. Any transfers, meals, and dayroom accommodations required prior to this time are the responsibility of the traveler. Please make a note of this, as many international flights arrive several hours prior to the scheduled embarkation time. Windstar Cruises Air/Hotel Packages: Purchasing Transfers: Guests may purchase transfers between airport and pier, between Windstar Cruises designated pre- / post-hotels and pier, and between airport and designated pre-/post-hotels if it is within standard Windstar Cruises Services. Temporary Terminations: If guests have chosen to stay at a non-Windstar Cruises hotel, guests will not be able to purchase transfers. Transfers are NOT available for purchase for guests choosing to deviate from standard Windstar Cruises services. If there is a “temporary termination” (e.g., guests who have Windstar Cruises Major City Airport but have chosen to stay in a non-Windstar Cruises hotel or guests who arrive early and choose to stay at a non-Windstar Cruises hotel), no transfers will be available for purchase. Services for Windstar cruise-only guests: Services for individuals who do not purchase air transportation or cruise extensions from Windstar begin with embarkation at the noted time in your cruise documents. Any transfers, meals and dayroom accommodations required prior to this time are the responsibility of the travelers. Please make a note of this, as many international flights arrive several hours prior to the scheduled embarkation time. Guests may purchase a transfer from local airport to ship for day of sailing and from ship to local airport for day of disembarkation directly through Windstar Cruises Vacation Planners at 1-800-258-7245. Major City Air guests flying on dates other than the date of (dis) embarkation must arrange their own transfers unless the reason for the different date is because of the purchase of a cruise extension from Windstar Cruises. Transfers for these guests will be arranged between airport, hotel, and pier, as appropriate, so long as the transfer dates coincide with the dates of the services purchased from Windstar Cruises.

Bon Voyage Gifts

Friends and/or family may wish to send a Bon Voyage gift directly to your stateroom or suite. They should include your stateroom or suite number, the name of your ship and the sailing date. To order a Bon Voyage gift, friends and family may contact Windstar Vacation Planners at 1-800-258-7245. Our Gift Order list includes a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, flowers, and other gifts. Orders must be prepaid and received 7 days in advance of sailing. Gift Orders may be charged to American Express®, Visa®, MasterCard® or Discover Card®. Depending on the country of embarkation, flowers may not be available 1 to 2 weeks prior to sailing. Check out the gift order form below. For more information or to place a gift order directly, please call us at 1-800-258-7245 or write Windstar Cruises Guest Services, 8400 NW 36th St. Suite 520, Miami, FL U.S.A. 33166.

Cancellation Policy

Each booking cancelled before 121 days prior to travel will be subject to a $50 per person cancellation fee. A full refund (except for the amounts paid for air being non-refundable, Travel Protection, and the $50 per person fee) will be made for written cancellations received by Windstar Cruises at least 121 days prior to the date on which you are to commence travel by any mode of transportation booked through Windstar Cruises (sea or land, air travel is non-refundable once purchased). Guests who cancel after that date for any reason, including medical or family reasons, are subject to the following cancellation schedule: 120 - 90 days before commencing travel, 15% of gross fare 89 - 60 days before commencing travel, 35% of gross fare 59 - 30 days before commencing travel, 50% of gross fare 29 - 0 days before commencing travel, 100% of gross fare. Given that the resale of cancelled space will likely result in a lost opportunity to sell other space, these fees are due regardless of resale. Windstar’s losses in the event of a cancellation would be very difficult if not impossible to determine, and the cancellation fees above are a fair and reasonable estimate of Windstar’s losses. Windstar can only be responsible for refunding amounts actually received by Windstar. Travel agencies may impose their own cancellation fees. Agency fees of any nature are a matter to be decided on solely by the agency and guests. Unless required by law, Windstar Contracts are non-transferable. Name changes and departure date changes are considered reservation cancellations /re-bookings and are subject to cancellation fees. Changes require the prior approval of Windstar and may not always be possible. Guests who purchased an Optional Travel Protection Plan must submit a claim through the plan administrator to receive refund or credit of cancellation fees if available under the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the plan. STANDARD SHORE EXCURSION CANCELLATION POLICY Rates and descriptions are current as of the printing date. Prices are subject to change without notice and descriptions may vary from the actual tour provided. If you cancel your tour reservation after the booking deadline stated in the Shore Excursion Booking Form on board, a 100% cancellation fee will apply since transportation and services will have already been arranged. “BEYOND ORDINARY” SHORE EXCURSION CANCELLATION POLICY Due to the uniqueness of these tours, bookings are non-refundable once confirmed unless otherwise noted in the Windstar Cruises Tour Description. Guests that opt into Windstar Cruises' Optional Travel Protection Plan must pay to insure Beyond Ordinary shore excursions.

Cell Phone Service

Cellular at Sea for mobile phone service at sea. Many wireless carriers are now offering affordable, convenient and accessible cruise plans so you can receive calls and texts from your mobile number any- where on the yacht while at sea where your shore service is not available. Once the yacht reaches 12 nautical miles from land (about an hour after departure from the pier) Cellular at Sea service is available and your phone will say “Cellular at Sea” or “901” to indicate service is on. In addition to cruise plans, pay-per-minute, text or data sessions are also available. Cellular at Sea data speeds support web browsing, social media / chat apps and checking e-mail. Actual data speed can vary depending on which network technology (3G or 4G LTE) your wireless carrier supports, the network onboard the vessel and satellite connectivity. Due to the speed of transmission, video streaming is not an option. This service needs to be added prior to boarding the yacht. Please contact your wireless carrier for your specific rates.

In order to maintain Windstar's atmosphere of casual elegance and intimate retreat, we ask guests to consider the following cell phone courtesy guidelines.

Cell phone service is intended primarily for guests' use in the privacy of their own stateroom or suite. Talking on cell phones is discouraged in public areas such as dining areas or lounges and guests are asked to set their phone's ringer on vibrate when in public areas.

For family groups booking multiple staterooms, the minimum age for at least one person in each stateroom is 18 years of age, provided they are traveling with a parent, guardian or chaperone.

Communications At Sea

EMAIL Windstar Cruises offers full internet capabilities, depending on course and position of the ship, as well as wireless internet service on all ships. Wi-Fi access is possible in most public areas, staterooms, and suites. POSTAL MAIL You can receive mail while on board, but guests are discouraged from relying on postal mail.. Please call a Vacation Planner at 1-800-258-7245 for information on shipping options and lead times to ensure your mail arrives in time for your visit to a given port of call. Phone & Fax Communications Guests on board may make phone calls from their stateroom or suite at a cost of $7.95 per minute. Emergency Phone Numbers: During regular business hours please call 1-800-258-7245 or 206-733-2704 (9:00 am to 9:00 pm Monday through Friday; 9:00 am to 7:30 pm Saturday; 10:00 am to 6:30 pm Eastern Time). Outside of these hours and during holidays, call 206-733-2991 (This number is for emergency use only; please do not call unless you are experiencing an emergency of an urgent nature). INTERNET ACCESS As part of our onboard service we offer internet access on our ships. We recently modified our internet usage packages from minutes to the amount of data used. How does internet access at home differ from access at sea? As with all ship communications, the internet service is operated through satellites. While you are most likely used to a fast internet connection at home, in hotels or other local Wi-Fi spots, internet at sea can be slow, and at times, disruptive. The only option available is satellite connection, which is costly and limits the amount of data used. The connection is also influenced by weather, the movement of the ship, and in the case of our sailing ships, blockage from our sails passing in front of the satellite dish. It is not recommended for downloading movies or large files due to system speed. In some areas the service can be interrupted by weather or the ship's position. We recommend that guests use the service only for emails or small files. Why did the Internet Usage Plan change from minutes to megabytes? Windstar modified the Internet Usage Plan in order to provide guests with the ability to access the same number of sites and/or read the same number of emails, regardless of connection speed. The previous plan was based on the number of minutes the guest was accessing the internet, regardless of connection speed. At times, factors like bad weather, ship speed, overcast conditions, all contributed to slow and/or disrupted connections. What is a megabyte (MB)? Any file, whether it’s a spreadsheet, word document, or email, takes up electronic storage space, otherwise known as bytes. The larger the file, the greater the number of bytes. The standard increment of measurement is bytes, kilobytes (1000 bytes), megabytes (1,000,000 bytes) and gigabytes (1,000,000,000, bytes). As a frame of reference, an 80-word email is around 10 kilobytes, while a typical web page is approximately 1 megabyte. What type of Internet Usage Plans are available? The Email Plan $60 This plan gives you 200 MB of data to use during your cruise. This plan is recommended for people who will be checking email and doing very limited browsing. The estimated minutes range from 15 to 60. The Surfing Plan $120 This plan gives you 500 MB of data to use for additional browsing and small file transfers (such as posting pictures to a social media site). The estimated minutes range from 90 to 360 (approximately 5 hours). The Ultimate Plan - 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 This plan gives you unlimited internet access. You have no worries about how much time you spend on the internet. How can I get internet access on board? Guests can purchase Internet Usage Plans prior to their cruise through a Vacation Planner or on board at Reception. These plans can be used on personal laptops or smart devises that are Wi-Fi enabled. * Please Note: All packages only allow for one device at a time to be connected to the internet. Please contact a Vacation Planner if you have questions.

Cruise Extensions

Extend your Windstar experience on land at a hotel that reflects our own high standards of elegance, luxury, and pampering service. The Windstar Hotel Collection includes renowned hotels that are conveniently located near the best restaurants, cultural centers, and local attractions. More information can be found in the Already Booked section of this website or by contacting a Windstar Vacation Planner at 1-800-258-7245.

Cruise Prices

Your cruise price includes ocean transportation, stateroom or suite accommodations,and all meals and entertainment on board the ship. Not included, however, are items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, laundry, transfers prior to or after cruise (dis)embarkation, or optional programs or activities. You’ll also be charged separately for shore excursions, and additional conveniences or conveyances not specified in the itinerary. All rates shown are per guest based on double occupancy. Cruise prices are published in U.S. dollars.

Customs Registration and Duty-Free Allowance / Import Restrictions

Upon your return to the U.S., you must declare all merchandise purchased outside of the U.S., including items purchased in duty-free shops on board the ship or ashore. Items mailed to the U.S. are not included. These will be assessed upon arrival. Each U.S. resident is usually allowed a duty-free exemption of US$800 per guest; it may be more or less depending on your itinerary and recent travel outside the country. An additional US$1,000-worth of articles may be brought in and taxed at a reduced flat-duty rate. After an absence of 7 days or more, Canadian citizens may bring back to Canada up to CAD750 worth of duty-free merchandise, which may include a maximum of 40 ounces of liquor or wine and 200 cigarettes. These figures are based on information given at the time of publication; regulations and dollar amounts may change. All guests should check with their local Customs agencies in their home country for allowances information before departure. In order to avoid problems when reentering the United States, we strongly recommend that U.S. residents register their valuables with U.S. Customs before departure. You must do this at a Customs office near your home. This cannot be done at the pier prior to departure. We recommend that you register any foreign manufactured items such as cameras, lenses, jewelry, watches, binoculars, etc. with Customs prior to taking them out of the country. Otherwise, you may be required to supply proof of purchase, or to pay duty on these items upon returning to the U.S. Please pay particular attention to the import of animal by-products (such as furs, belts, and shoes). A complete list of banned imports is available from U.S. Customs. www.cbp.gov

Departure Tax

Some countries impose a departure tax on departing passengers which cannot be included on an air ticket. In most cases this is paid by each passenger upon airport check-in and may be paid in either US dollars or local currency.

Deposit and Final Payment Requirements

Immediate deposit of 15% of cruise fare, hotel, and non-discountable amounts is required within 3 days of booking to secure a reservation. Final payment is due prior to 90 days before departure date. Your documents are usually received approximately 60 days prior to departure. Travel documents, however, are only issued after final payment has been received by Windstar. Send all payments to Windstar Cruises, 8400 NW 36th St. Suite 520, Miami, FL U.S.A. 33166. Payment is also welcome by American Express®, Visa®, Discover®, or MasterCard®. For faster processing, please include your confirmation number on your check. All charges are in USD. Windstar is not liable for any currency exchange rate or foreign exchange fee imposed by the account holders' bank or credit card company. Payment of the cruise deposit and Travel Protection Plan (if applicable) constitutes a binding of the Terms & Conditions.

Dining With Windstar

BREAKFAST It is 7:30 in the morning and you awake to hear the gentle trade winds, and smell the freshly brewed Colombian coffee and buttery croissants that lure you topside to Veranda. It's breakfast alfresco, full service or buffet-style, anytime till 9:30 a.m. No need to hurry. Or if you prefer, linger over a continental breakfast served in the privacy of your stateroom or suite. Whichever is fine with us. After all, this is what the good life is all about: doing what you please, when you please. LUNCH Again, the choices are many in Veranda. Choose the sumptuous, seemingly endless buffet. Or, order from the lunch menu. Please refer to your onboard Daily Program for specific times. DINNER In the evening, we turn the spotlight to our elegant Amphora restaurant. Here, the dining room manager seats you, but where is your decision. There are no pre-assigned tables or first or second seatings. Or try the romantic candelight atmosphere of Candles. When you dine and with whom are entirely up to you. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board. Dinner time will be printed in the ship's daily program. If you’re dining in Amphora, Stella Bistro, or Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso in the evening, slacks or non-distressed jeans are appropriate, paired with collared, button-down or polo shirts, or fashion tops or blouses. Skirts with nice tops, casual dresses and sundresses are also good choices. Dress shoes, nice sandals or stylish athletic casual shoes round out your evening wardrobe. Depending on your destination you may wish to pack shorts, hats, flip flops and t-shirts, but please reserve them for your daytime activities. The cuisine is exquisite ... a unique creation of light and savory entrees using fresh native foods and tropical accents. What will it be? Pear and goat cheese salad with prosciutto? Roasted eggplant and garlic soup? Grilled ahi tuna with Asian vegetables and a ginger pink peppercorn sauce? Or perhaps a mocha and chocolate terrine with almond sauce? To all this, we add a fine selection of vintage wines. IN-ROOM DINING If you decide you'd like to dine in your stateroom or suite menus are available 24 hours a day. Breakfast menu from 6 - 11 a.m., lunch from noon - 10 p.m., dinner menu from Amphora served during their open hours and an overnight menu available 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. The Dress Code - from 7 am - 6 pm guests are welcome to dress as they please with the exception of no swimwear in all public lounges and restaurants and no clothing with offensive language or graphics that distract from the comfort and well-being of others. The general shipboard style is elegant, but relaxed including jeans and Bermuda/ walking shorts. In the evening - after 6 pm when dining in Amphora, Stella Bistro or Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, the dress code is country club-type clothing. For men - nice slacks, polo shirts, button down shirts, shoes other than athletic shoes. Designer denim jeans without rips or holes or are multi-colors are also acceptable. Sport coats are optional. Ties are not needed. For women - nice pants, skirts, tops, casual dresses, sundresses, nice sandals or casual shoes and designer denim dress jeans not ripped or multi-colored or having holes. Blazers are optional. No assigned seating in Amphora or Veranda restaurants. And what can be more casual than merely signing for onboard purchases? You will feel like this is your ship, your personal yacht. The environment inspires the attitude. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board.

Disembarkation Procedures

You will be advised of current requirements and be given complete instructions on disembarkation procedures during your cruise. Embarking or disembarking the ship in a port other than the scheduled embarkation or disembarkation port for your itinerary is not permitted.

Fares, Non-Discountable Amount, Gratuities, Taxes, Fees, Port Expenses and Surcharges

Gift Shop durables, including consignment goods when sold
Internet – Purchase onboard
SPA Retail (Concessionaire – Steiner)
Beverages Sold Onboard – including Beverage package (Portugal & Spain)
Gift Shop consumables; amenities and food items
Laundry – Pre-purchased at time of booking and onboard sales
Spa Product & Services (Concessionaire - Steiner
Internet Package – Pre-purchased at time of booking
Beverages Package - Pre-purchased at time of booking

Food Allergies and Special Dietary Needs

1. Mail to Windstar Vacation Planning at 8400 NW 36th St. Suite 520, Miami, FL U.S.A. 33166
2. Fax to 786-685-3089
3. Call 1-800-258-7245 to speak with a Vacation Planner in person
4. Send an email to [email protected]

Guests With Disabilities

Windstar does not discriminate against persons on the basis of disability. We seek, to the extent feasible, to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. There are no elevators on Wind Star and Wind Spirit nor were the ships originally constructed to be wheelchair accessible. As a result, these ships may be unsuitable for people relying solely on wheelchairs. The other yachts are equipped with elevators, but staterooms on Wind Surf are not wheelchair accessible. Also note, there is no elevator access to board the ship. Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend have modified wheelchair accessible suites available. Certain ports require the ship to anchor; in this case guests must be ferried into port. Service Dogs are permitted onboard ships if prior arrangements have been made at time of booking. In limited situations where an individual with a disability would be unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services, we may find it necessary to ask the individual to make alternative travel arrangements. It is essential that Windstar is notified of any special medical, physical or other requirements you may have at the time of booking.

Hotel Service Charge

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. If our service exceeds or fails to meet your expectations, you are free to adjust this amount at the end of the cruise. In addition, 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. Please note: Promotional Shipboard Credit cannot be applied towards the Hotel Service Charge.

Immunization

Immunization requirements are established by the countries you are visiting and are subject to change without notice. For this reason, we recommend that all guests check with their physician or health department to discuss the various immunization requirements and suggestions for countries on your itinerary. A list of travel destinations and their required immunizations can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

Late Booking Policy

On bookings within 45 days of departure, Windstar Cruises requires final payment before the process of requesting air or hotel space. On bookings within 14 days of departure, we are unable to make air or hotel transfers or arrangements.

Luggage Shipping Service

If you have lots of luggage and are worried about traveling with heavy suitcases and clearing customs, you may want to try our optional luggage shipping service. Your bags will be picked up from home and delivered directly aboard your ship and then sent back once you’re ready to go home. Thanks to our partnership with Luggage Forward, you just board your flight and meet your bags at your destination. Find out more about this service here

Major City Air Program

Windstar Cruises is pleased to offer air/sea packages featuring round trip economy-class airline transportation between many U.S. and Canadian cities and your cruise. Optional transfers from the airport to ship are available on sailing day and return after the cruise. To take advantage of this package, which is offered at an additional charge to your cruise fare, simply ask your travel professional to request it when you reserve your stateroom or suite. Current add-on costs are available from Windstar Cruises Vacation Planners and are subject to change. All gateways may not be available for each itinerary. Please call for a rate quote and 1-800-258-7245. Windstar Cruises will provide an airline ticket between major cities and the nearest airport to the cruise port using the carriers, routing, and structure of our choice. We reserve the right to utilize commuter and/or charter air service without prior notice. The airfares we use are based on capacity controlled, promotional, and group fares. The cost of the basic add-on quoted does not include confirmation of requests for specific carriers, routing, or en route stopovers. Air schedules are generally available approximately 60 days prior to departure. Windstar Cruises reserves the right to withdraw air/sea availability without prior notice for any product at any time.

Medical Facilities, Infants, and Pregnancy Policy

A doctor and limited medical facilities are available on board. However, if you take special medications, please bring an adequate supply with you together with a copy of the prescription from your doctor; it may not be available on board. Medical services and all medicines (except acetaminophen, aspirin, and seasickness pills) dispensed by the ship's doctor will be charged to your onboard account. If you become ill during the voyage and the physician is unable to care for your needs on board, you will be transferred to medical facilities on shore. Shoreside medical care and/or evacuation are not charged to your onboard account. You will be responsible for paying all of these charges. If you will require a special medical apparatus or assistance on board or have any special medical, physical or other requirements, please contact our Vacation Planners Department at 1-800-258-7245. Due to limited medical facilities, we will not accept reservations for children under 8 years of age or women who are 24 or more weeks pregnant at the time their travel with Windstar concludes.

Packing Advice

The less you bring the better. We suggest clothes that are light, cool, and made of natural fabrics like cotton and silk. You may wish to bring warmer clothing (layers are best), if you are traveling on an Ocean Crossing or an autumn Mediterranean cruise. The Dress Code - from 7 am - 6 pm guests are welcome to dress as they please with the exception of no swimwear in all public lounges and restaurants and no clothing with offensive language or graphics that distract from the comfort and well-being of others. The general shipboard style is elegant, but relaxed including jeans and Bermuda/ walking shorts. In the evening - after 6 pm when dining in Amphora, Stella Bistro or Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, the dress code is country club-type clothing. For men - nice slacks, polo shirts, button down shirts, shoes other than athletic shoes. Designer denim jeans without rips or holes or are multi-colored are also acceptable. Sport coats are optional. Ties are not needed. For women - nice pants, skirts, tops, casual dresses, sundresses, nice sandals or casual shoes and designer denim dress jeans not ripped or multi-colored or having holes. Blazers are optional. No assigned seating in Amphora or Veranda restaurants. And what can be more casual than merely signing for onboard purchases? You will feel like this is your ship, your personal yacht. The environment inspires the attitude. Reservations are required for Candles and can be made on board.

Passengers Under 21

Windstar Cruises is unable to accommodate children under eight (8) years of age. All Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 21 years old. Parents, guardians, and chaperones are responsible for overseeing the onboard conduct of minors. Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under age 21. For family groups booking multiple staterooms, the minimum age for at least one person in each stateroom is 18 years of age, provided they are traveling with a parent, guardian or chaperone.

Passport and Visa Information

PASSPORTS It is your responsibility to determine and fulfill the passport and visa requirements applicable to your travel situation. Questions regarding current regulations can be directed to your travel professional. Boarding may be denied and fines may be levied against those guests without proper documentation. Payment of any fines levied is the responsibility of the individual guest. Windstar Cruises requires that all guests traveling on board a Windstar ship travel with a valid passport. All passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended return date. Closed Loop Cruises U.S. citizens on cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port are required to have proof of citizenship such as an Enhanced Driver's License or passport. Please note: it is a Windstar Cruises policy that all guests travel with a valid passport, as passports may be required when entering some foreign countries, including the Caribbean, and passports are required for international air travel. For more information, please visit www.travel.state.gov or call the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778. Foreign nationals should contact their respective governments to obtain details regarding current passport requirements. Expired passports are not acceptable. VISAS There are some countries on your itinerary that may require a visa in addition to your passport to gain entry. As with any other type of travel you do, it is your responsibility to obtain and have available the proper passport and visa(s) necessary for each country you will visit. It is extremely important that you have all the necessary travel documents before you arrive at the ship. Boarding may be denied if you arrive without the proper travel documentation, and the unfortunate result would be that, not only would you miss the cruise you’ve been waiting for, but you would also not be eligible for a refund. As documentation requirements vary, please review your itinerary and verify your specific travel requirements. Travel requirements change periodically, so it is advisable to check with a visa service or the country consulate at least six (6) weeks prior to your cruise date to verify you have all the necessary travel documentation. If you are a US citizen, you should check first with the State Department. Non-US citizens should check with your country’s consulate, as regulations vary. When to Obtain A Visa We encourage you to obtain your visa as early as possible to prevent any stressful interruptions. Visa processing varies by destination and submission location. It may also take longer during peak seasons or if embassies are closed. There are also additional associated costs to obtain these documents. Multiple Entries: Different ports of call in the same country do not constitute a separate entry unless the ship visits a different country in between. Visa Service Provider As a courtesy, Windstar Cruises provides information about visa service providers. Visa service providers assist users with the collection of necessary documents. They guide clients through the process, and help with the logistics of working with foreign Entry/Exit Bureaus. If you decide to use a visa service provider be sure to advise them that you are traveling with Windstar Cruises and that you will be traveling by sea, as visa requirements may be different than for air travel. VisaCentral and Generations Visa are two such visa service providers who can give you additional information and assistance. Please note that these visa service providers are not affiliated with Windstar Cruises in any way and their services are provided at an additional cost. At your earliest convenience you are encouraged to contact your travel professional, your State Department or local visa service for assistance in determining which visas will be required for your specific cruise. VISA WAIVER PROGRAMS The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented a mandatory Electronic Security for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program. This is a pre-travel authorization program that applies to all U.S. bound travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries. All VWP travelers are required to obtain an ESTA prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Please visit U.S Customs & Border Patrol to apply. Schengen Zone Effective mid-2025, visitors not requiring a visa to enter Schengen Agreement Countries will need to obtain a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) prior to entering the Schengen territory. Visa exempt travelers who will need to obtain an ETIAS include US, Canadian, and Australian passport holders. For more information on this and a complete list of countries required to have documentation, please visit https://travel-europe.europa.eu/index_en . While the Russian Federation requires visas for visiting American and Canadian citizens, there is an exclusion for guests traveling with an escorted cruise group. If you plan to explore St. Petersburg on your own, a visa is required and must be obtained before departure. If, however, you have chosen to take part in one of our escorted shore excursions, a visa is not required. Your passport is sufficient documentation for boarding your yacht. It is always advisable to check with your State Department or travel professional if you are unsure.

Pets and Service Dogs

Allow at least a year of planning in order to get a Service Dog certified, especially if the guest is visiting more than one country.
Contact the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) they will be visiting for information on the policies and requirements of the country.
Contact the Department or Ministry of Agriculture in their destination country (including U.S. travel) as many ports of call have strict entry requirements for animals.
Obtain health and rabies certificates from their veterinarian. Have these documents notarized and certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or Similar authority in residing country.
Obtain a good health letter from their veterinarian on letterhead stating their Service Dog is in good health and current on all vaccines.
Obtain a letter from their personal physician also on letterhead, stating that they require the assistance of a Service Dog and for what reason(s).
Outfit their Service Dog with recognizable gear as a way to let people know that their dog is an official Service Dog. For example a jacket or vest or guide dog-type harness with words on the side like Service Dog or Guide Dog.
Make sure they hand carry all these documents, not pack them in their luggage. They will be asked to submit these records prior to boarding.
All guests traveling with service animals must book at least 60 days in advance to allow time for Windstar Cruises to review documents and approve the Service Dog request in writing.
Only one Service Dog can be accommodated per (suite/stateroom) or (person).
The dog’s breed and the size restrictions of our ships may limit the Service Dogs we can accept.
A sand/ relief box will be provided.
Windstar Cruises will do our best to assist guests and they should contact our Reservation Department at 1-877-203-5279 to make sure both they and Windstar Cruises have all the additional information needed.
Service Dogs are permitted to accompany guests with a disability in all public areas, including dining venues.
Service Dogs must be on a leash, harness or other restraining device in public areas.
Service Dogs are not permitted in pools, whirlpools or spas.
The care and supervision of Service Dogs is the sole responsibility of the owner. Ships are not required nor do they have the capacity to provide food or care for Service Dogs.
Owners may bring a reasonable quantity of food and bowls for their Service Dog at no additional charge.
If a guest wishes to disembark at a port that does not allow their Service Dog, the guest must make arrangements for the dog on board to ensure the dog is cared for. The ship’s staff is not able to care for the dog and the Service Dog may not be left unattended in the guest’s suite/stateroom.
Owners of Service Dogs are responsible for the behavior or damage caused by their Service Dog. A cleaning fee may be assessed if necessary.
If a Service Dog’s behavior creates a distraction, such as growling, barking excessively, initiating unsolicited contact, biting, failing to use the designated relief area, sitting on furniture, eating from the table, etc., the dog may be denied boarding or removed from the ship along with the owner, at the owner’s expense.

Pricing Errors & Booking Errors

Windstar reserves the right to correct any booking system or human errors to accurately reflect Windstar’s intended terms and conditions for the offer purchased.

Prohibited Items

Reconfirming Airline Reservations

Please review your air and cruise documents to ensure that your tickets are correct. We recommend that you call the airline 72 hours prior to your departure time to reconfirm your flight. (These are international flights, and departure times may change without prior notice.) Plan to check in at the airline ticket counter at least 3 hours before flight time for international passport/security checks. For post-cruise departures please allow at least 4 hours between the ship's debarkation and your flight departure.

Refund Policy and Instructions

If Windstar Cruises delays your cruise for more than 3 calendar days or cancels your cruise, and you choose not to travel on the delayed cruise or do not accept an alternative cruise, you are entitled to a refund of cruise fare and charges for accommodations, services and facilities (including port fees, taxes and other ancillary fees paid to Windstar Cruises) for the delayed or cancelled cruise. If you booked your cruise directly with Windstar Cruises, to claim a refund please submit a copy of the booking confirmation, proof of payment, and a copy of the delay or cancellation notice by email to [email protected] within 90 days of the original embarkation date of your delayed or cancelled cruise. You may also contact us at 800-258-7245 (Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Eastern Time), from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Saturday) and from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Eastern Time on Sunday). If you booked through a Travel Advisor, please contact your advisor for assistance. We will review the refund request and respond by email within 180 days of the date you or your travel advisor submits your claim. If you are entitled to a refund, Windstar Cruises reserves the right to offer you Future Cruise Credits as an alternative to a refund, but you are free to require a cash refund instead.

Ships' Registry and Trademarks

All Windstar Cruises Ships are registered in the Bahamas and owned by Windstar Cruises Marshall Islands, LLC.Yacht ownership and registry are subject to change. Non-Windstar Services (such as airlines and other off-ship transportation carriers, shore excursions, meals, accommodations, air ambulance, and shoreside physicians) are generally performed by independent contractors. Those Non-Windstar Services that are performed by independent contractors are solely at your risk and subject to the terms or arrangements made by you or on your behalf with the independent contractor furnishing the Non-Windstar Service. Windstar Cruises assumes no responsibility with respect to these Non-Windstar Services (including delay, injury, death, or damage to property) even though it may collect monies or make arrangements for the services. Situations may arise that, in the opinion of Windstar Cruises, make it necessary for Windstar to cancel, advance, or postpone a scheduled departure, change itineraries, or make substitutions involving ports of call, other travel components, vessels, or other modes of transportation. These situations may include, by way of example, concerns regarding weather conditions, issues involving safety matters, alternative business arrangements or charters resulting in the decision to withdraw a sailing from public sale, or requirements of governmental authorities. If this should occur, Windstar does not assume responsibility or liability for any losses, inconvenience, or expenses incurred by guests as a result. Your full cruise fare will be refunded, however, if the cruise is cancelled prior to initial embarkation. Windstar has registered trademarks in the United States and various foreign countries for the names and phrases Windstar®, 180º from Ordinary®, 180 Degrees from Ordinary®, Romance Under Sail®, Luxury As You Like It® and the Windstar logo.

Services On Board

ELECTRIC APPLIANCES Voltage is standard 110/220 on all Windstar ships. Special converters are needed using the Europlug (two round pins) standard. Guests will need to bring their own travel adaptors as they are not available on board. For your convenience, there is a hair dryer in each stateroom or suite. There are only 110v US plugs on Wind Spirit . VALUABLES Each stateroom or suite is equipped with a built-in safe for storing valuables and important documents. LAUNDRY SERVICES Laundry service is provided on board at a nominal charge. Dry cleaning is not available. Laundry Service Packages must be added by the first day of the cruise and will be priced by the total number of cruise days. Pricing is inclusive of applicable taxes. SPECIAL OCCASIONS ON BOARD Windstar Cruises will be happy to help you plan an onboard celebration. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, renewing your wedding vows, or just want to pamper yourself, call our Vacation Planning department at 1-800-258-7245 to make arrangements. If you should decide to give an impromptu party during the cruise, contact the Hotel Manager for onboard assistance.

Ships Positioning in Ports (Anchor or Berth)

While our ships dock (berth) at many ports, there are certain ports that require the ship to anchor offshore. In these cases, guests must be ferried (tendered) into port. When the ship spends an overnight in port and at anchor, tendering will normally cease between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM local time and recommence in the morning. Port Positioning and Tender Operation Schedules can be changed for many reasons including weather, health, safety, and direction from port authorities. Guests are advised to check on board for the most current details.

Smoking Policy

Smoking or vaping is not permitted in any of the staterooms, suites, or public spaces, including all restaurants and corridors. Smoking and vaping is permitted on the outside decks in designated smoking areas only. Smoking cigars is permitted in a specific designated area on each yacht, however, only sold on board the Cigar Room of Wind Surf .

Sports and Activities

Activities are a world apart from those offered on other cruise ships. On board you may wish to participate in a scheduled activity or just relax; the choice is yours. In port you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most intriguing places in the world. Windstar has selected custom-designed tours to help you explore each port to the fullest extent (not included in the cruise fare). In Europe, each port beckons you to discover its history and culture: explore ancient ruins, view masterful art, tour grand architecture or sample wines from the finest vineyards. In the Caribbean and Costa Rica adventure awaits: snorkeling or SCUBA diving, helicopter flight-seeing, a catamaran or boat cruise, walks along secluded beaches, and rainforest hikes. In the South Pacific you can see the islands by 4x4, check out a black pearl farm, or kayak the river. You may also want to take advantage of our Watersports Platform from which you may enjoy various scheduled activities such as windsurfing or paddle boarding while at anchor. In certain ports SCUBA diving is offered for an additional fee through local dive operators.

Transfers / Pre & Post Cruise Services

Services for Windstar Cruises cruise-only guests (individuals who do not purchase air transportation or cruise extensions from Windstar Cruises) begin with embarkation at the noted time in your cruise documents. Any transfers, meals, and dayroom accommodations required prior to this time are the responsibility of the guest. Please make a note of this, as many international flights arrive several hours prior to the scheduled embarkation time. Guests may purchase a transfer from local airport to ship for day of sailing and from ship to local airport for day of disembarkation directly through Windstar Cruises Vacation Planners at 1-800-258-7245.

Travel Protection Plan

Full Sail Travel Protection Plan In life, you never really know what may happen. Windstar’s Full Sail Travel Protection Plan offers guests the opportunity to help protect against cancellation losses or unexpected events that may arise while traveling. IMPORTANT NOTICE For guests with voyages that include New Caledonia. The authorities in New Caledonia have advised that travelers/guests are now required to have travel insurance that covers both medical expenses and repatriation costs in order to enter into New Caledonia. To guarantee that you do not encounter any problems while traveling we encourage you to obtain appropriate travel insurance for your trip. For U.S. and Canadian guests, Windstar’s travel protection can be purchased and added to your reservation up to 90 days prior to the start of your vacation. Our plan provides coverage for trip delays, trip interruptions, medical expenses, repatriation expense and other protections.

Value Added Tax

Internet – Purchase on board
Beverages Sold On board – including Beverage package (Portugal & Spain)
Spa Product & Services (Concessionaire - Steiner)

Wet Landings

Visit our Wet Landings Page to find out more about select situations involving Zodiac transportation from ship to shore!

Windstar Cruises Announces New Whole-Foods Plant-Based menu

Today Windstar Cruise has shared its latest partnership with the National Health Association (NHA) to create a whole-food and plant-based menu onboard all six of the brand’s yachts!

“The National Health Association points out that vegetarian and vegan diets are not always healthy, and for meals to be truly health-promoting, they also need to be minimally processed and prepared,” explains Windstar’s Director of Hotel Operations Peter Tobler, who oversees food and beverage operations. “We’ve seen an increased demand for whole-food, plant-based dishes from our customers, and we’re really excited to work with the NHA to bring them something that’s nutritious and delicious. As a side benefit, plant-based foods also reduce our environmental footprint – a major goal of Windstar’s – allowing us to tread more lightly on this planet.”

MORE ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP

Windstar Cruises has started to work with the brand’s culinary team on the new menu and plans to roll out the program fleetwide in June.
All food is gluten-free and will be prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar.
The line will have vegetarian and meat options.
Wanda Huberman, executive director of the National Health Association, worked closely with the Windstar culinary team to share NHA expertise and discuss Windstar-developed recipes that meet the organization’s standards for an exclusive whole-plant food diet and lifestyle.

NEW MENU SAMPLE ITEMS

– Daily Smoothies at Breakfast

– Roasted Butternut Squash Velouté with Baked Pumpkin Seeds

– Baked Cauliflower Croquettes with Salsa Verde and Sautéed Spinach

– Penne Rigate Pasta, with Crisp Vegetables and Espelette Pepper Sauce

– Veggie Enchiladas with Black Bean & Cilantro Sauce

– Chia Seed Truffles with Dates & Coconut Sauce

– Tahini Brownies with Fresh Strawberries

“The Windstar culinary team has knocked it out of the park in executing the specific requirements of our meals,” Huberman says. “Every meal is absolutely delicious and served in a beautiful presentation with so much variety that no one will leave a meal feeling hungry or less than satisfied.”

Julie Bouchner

Julie Bouchner is the Digital Editorial Manager for Porthole Cruise and Travel. She has a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Syracuse University. When she is not writing, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, baking, and playing with her Siberian Husky named Ellie.

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Home » Cruise » Windstar Cruises » Windstar Cruises Announces New Plant-Based Menu

Windstar Cruises Announces New Plant-Based Menu

Windstar Cruises announces a new plant-based menu rolling out fleetwide in June, along with vegetarian and more traditional menu options.

Windstar Cruises' Star Breeze Makes First Call in Australia

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Windstar cruises announces new whole-food, plant-based menu in partnership with the national health association .

What Started as a Special Offering for Groups and Charters Has Morphed into a Fleet-Wide Initiative Beginning June 2023

Windstar Cruises has partnered with the National Health Association (NHA) to create a new vegan menu on board all six of the small ship line’s yachts. The offerings are not only plant-based but also prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar and are gluten-free.

Windstar has begun training its culinary team on the new menu and plans to roll out the program fleetwide in June. Vegetarian options, as well as the line’s existing omnivore menu items, will continue to be served as usual.

Windstar Cruises Announces New Plant-Based Menu

“We’ve seen an increased demand for whole-food, plant-based dishes from our customers, and we’re really excited to work with the NHA to bring them something that’s nutritious and delicious. As a side benefit, plant-based foods also reduce our environmental footprint – a major goal of Windstar’s – allowing us to tread more lightly on this planet.”

Sample dishes from the new menu include:

Daily Smoothies at Breakfast
Roasted Butternut Squash Velouté with Baked Pumpkin Seeds
Baked Cauliflower Croquettes with Salsa Verde and Sautéed Spinach
Penne Rigate Pasta, with Crisp Vegetables and Espelette Pepper Sauce
Veggie Enchiladas with Black Bean & Cilantro Sauce
Chia Seed Truffles with Dates & Coconut Sauce
Tahini Brownies with Fresh Strawberries

Wanda Huberman, executive director of the NHA, worked closely with the Windstar culinary team to help create recipes that meet the organization’s standards for an exclusive whole-plant food diet and lifestyle.

The menu evolved out of hosting several plant-based groups, which have grown significantly in popularity since the start of the pandemic. Lisa McCarl, a former open heart recovery nurse turned travel advisor, has booked several plant-based groups on Windstar. She says there is a huge demand for healthy travel options.

“More people are changing the way they eat to prevent and reverse diet-related disease. Why not make it easy for them to continue that healthy lifestyle while sailing on the trip of a lifetime? Windstar is doing a phenomenal job in making healthy cruising a reality.”

SOURCE Windstar Cruises

Are you happy to hear that Windstar Cruises announces a new plant-based menu rolling out fleetwide in June? Do you look for healthier food choices while on a cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences with alternative menu offerings on cruise ships.

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Windstar Cruises Announces Chefs for 2022 Culinary Cruises

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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All pasta and no chocolate: What it’s like eating gluten-free on a cruise

"Will I be able to eat anything on this cruise ship?" is not a question you often hear about floating holidays known for 24/7 dining and enormous buffets. But if you have celiac disease, like my mom, it's a logical concern.

I had invited my mom to join my kids and me on a seven-night Caribbean cruise aboard MSC Seashore from MSC Cruises, an under-the-radar line unknown to many Americans. In fact, though I've written about cruising for almost 20 years, I'd never sailed with that line. Its dining options were not familiar to me, so I couldn't guarantee what gluten-free options we'd find on the line's newest cruise ship.

Spoiler alert: My mom did not starve, but we couldn't have foreseen that based on the limited information we were able to find before our sailing. Here's the good, the bad and the glutenous we experienced on our sailing, so future gluten-free cruisers can decide if MSC is the line for them or not.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Pre-cruise information was either lacking or not encouraging

Let's start with the official word from MSC Cruises' website:

We were pleased to find this information, but our ship – MSC Seashore – was not listed. Did it offer the gluten-free cuisine program and Bureau Veritas certification? The MSC phone reps could not give us a definitive answer.

Online reviews were decidedly mixed. One woman raved about the gluten-free menu at dinner, while another reviewer claimed, "MSC was the best GF experience I've had including Royal and Celebrity." On the other hand, one Cruise Critic poster was forced to eat the same chicken with carrots and zucchini for meal after meal and concluded, "Frankly, I couldn't wait to get off this ship. It was singularly the worst gluten-free experience I've experienced on a ship. Carnival and Norwegian do 10 times better without even trying."

So we looked for travel agents who specialized in gluten-free cruising to see what they knew. One gluten-free and celiac travel specialist at Travel Leaders told my mom flat out that she would not recommend going on an MSC cruise. Another recommended Celebrity Cruises. My mom's trusted AAA travel agent didn't even sell MSC Cruises.

Finally, I asked a public relations representative for MSC Cruises about MSC Seashore specifically, and she answered that the ship did have dedicated areas for handling gluten-free food. My mom was willing to take a leap of faith with that answer, and we booked.

My mom filled out the MSC special needs form, indicating that she had celiac disease and could not eat gluten. She got a generic response back that said to talk to the maitre d' on board and that the line "cannot guarantee a 100% allergy-free zone." No one contacted her to discuss dining options or ask if she had any special food requests.

With that lack of reassurance, we headed to our ship.

The main dining room was best — but there was no gluten-free menu

When we boarded the ship on the first day, the buffet was the only venue open for lunch. My mom flagged down someone on the restaurant staff, who basically said she couldn't eat anything on the buffet and they'd make her some chicken with gluten-free pasta. The kids and I finished eating before she even got her meal. But she ate something, and it wasn't horrible.

At dinner on the first night, one of the dining room managers came to discuss menu options with my mom. MSC Seashore does not have a separate gluten-free menu, as online reviewers reported from other ships, but he pointed out which regular menu items could be made gluten-free.

He also brought some pre-packaged rolls. At every meal for the rest of the cruise, a waiter would bring my mom pre-packaged, gluten-free bread products. At breakfast, it might be a packaged muffin or croissant. At dinner, it was one of two kinds of rolls. It was always a surprise, and variety was limited. (To be fair, the regular dinner rolls didn't have much variety either.)

After the first night, we switched dining times and dining rooms, and our knight in shining gluten-free armor became Jason from South Africa. I swear he was the hardest working person on that cruise ship, assisting all the guests with allergies and dietary restrictions at dinner, supervising the buffet at lunch, even biking around Ocean Cay delivering ketchup from one food truck to another.

Every evening, he'd discuss with my mom what she could and couldn't eat from the main menu, and even show us the next day's menu so he could run any questions by the chef in advance. He told her about off-menu items she could order, such as gluten-free pancakes at breakfast and gluten-free pizza at lunch. We wondered if there were other off-menu items she should be considering, but no one could give us a good answer.

My mom was able to eat osso buco and lamb shank, gluten-free pasta dishes and French onion soup, among other dishes. She had a different meal each night at dinner – no endless chicken dinners. Her dining experience was not any worse than those of us eating off the regular menu. She probably had more choices than I did as someone who does not eat meat or shellfish.

Dessert was a bust

Dessert was a different story.

The gluten-free dessert in the main dining room was always some variation of a white cake with frosting — or she could order the cheese or fruit plate. But we are chocolate people.

When my mom asked if she could get a chocolate dessert, the manager responded that the line's chocolate providers did not guarantee their products were gluten-free, so they couldn't make her a chocolate cake or gluten-free cookies.

He also said none of the ice cream on board was marked gluten-free, so he couldn't serve it to her. She ate it at the buffet and Venchi gelateria anyway and felt fine.

We were glad to see the restaurant staff taking the allergy situation seriously. The downside was that anything that was obviously gluten-free, like plain chocolate ice cream, still could not be served to my mom. You want to be able to have fun desserts on a cruise line, and flourless chocolate cake and ice cream are so simple to make gluten-free. It was disappointing that the line couldn't bother to find suppliers for these items.

The buffet was mostly off-limits

Nothing on the buffet was marked in any way. Not only could you not tell if a dish was gluten-free or vegetarian, but you also couldn't find out what an unassuming dish contained without tasting it. Case in point: One day, there were two vats of mushy yellow-orange stuff side by side. I asked the server — one was polenta and the other a squash dish, but that was not obvious to anyone by sight.

My mom figured she could eat the salad, the fresh fruit or any made-to-order eggs. It wasn't worth ordering a gluten-free meal that would take 20 minutes to arrive. So she avoided the buffet, meaning she took nearly all her meals in the dining room.

Luckily, my daughter and I weren't big fans of the buffet either, and often came with my mom to breakfast in the main dining room. One day I had a leisurely lunch with her when the kids weren't hungry and stayed behind to watch TV in the cabin.

Snacks and bagged lunches were tricky to acquire

One of the online reviews mentioned gluten-free snacks at an onboard bar, but we never came across those. (I did find a gluten-free drink list, including gluten-free beer, at the Brooklyn Café.) My mom asked her buddy Jason about snacks, and he gave her a few, including one that was essentially a gluten-free Twinkie.

My mom's other concern was lunches off the ship. We had several excursions that took place over the midday mealtime, and she'd read that there wasn't gluten-free food on Ocean Cay, which Jason confirmed.

She asked the first night about the possibility of getting a packed lunch and was told to ask Guest Services. They said they'd have to contact Shore Excursions, which reported back that they did not handle food nor could they ask the tour operators about their food offerings. It was like a wild goose chase just to find information.

Once again, Jason came to the rescue. I can order you packed lunches, he said, just tell me which days and remind me the night before. The lunches were great, packed with two sandwiches (usually turkey and/or tuna), fruit and several snacks. The downside was of the three days my mom ordered them, twice they weren't ready and she had to wait 20 minutes before the lunch appeared.

Eating gluten-free, it turns out, involves a heck of a lot of waiting around.

There was no sliced bread

My mom certainly ate her fill of carbs – rolls, cake, croissants, pasta and pizza. What the ship did not have on board? Gluten-free sliced bread.

Any time my mom got a sandwich, it was on one of the same pre-packaged rolls she got with dinner. She would have liked some sliced bread, either to eat as toast with eggs in the morning or as a sandwich base at lunch, but for whatever reason, the ship did not stock it.

Bottom line

Cruising gluten-free on MSC was not the horror story some online reviewers and travel agents made it out to be. My mom had plenty of different foods to eat, and she did not get sick.

Were her options limited? Yes. Were there foods, like ice cream and bread, that MSC could have provided but did not supply? Certainly. Were there extra hassles involved with making sure my mom got fed — and was her satisfaction with cruise dining dependent on us being assigned to Jason's table and not a less helpful dining manager? You betcha.

Ultimately, I don't think my mom will be cruising on MSC again, but that's not entirely due to the gluten-free dining situation. My takeaway is that your experience eating gluten-free on MSC Cruises may vary based on the ship you're sailing and the region of the world you're traveling (since that could affect provisioning). The best tip I have for successful eating with a dietary restriction, and this applies to any cruise line, is to keep asking questions and advocate for yourself until you get what you need.

The squeaky wheel, in this case, gets the grease — ideally, in gluten-free pizza form.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
15 ways cruisers waste money
12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Windstar Cruises Announces New Vegan Plant-Based Menu

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: March 14, 2023 - Last updated: March 20, 2023

Windstar Cruises Announces New Vegan Plant-Based Menu

Ultra-luxury cruise line Windstar will roll out a new whole-food, plant-based menu this summer aboard all of the company’s yachts.

Vegetarian and vegan cruisers —along with those who are looking to eat healthier—will find more menu options on Windstar’s luxury yacht cruises beginning this June.

On March 14, 2023, Windstar Cruises announced it’s partnering with the National Health Association to create a new vegan menu on board all six of the small ship line’s yachts.

Windstar Cruises’ new vegan menu

Windstar’s new plant-based menu, which started as a special offering for groups and charters, will roll out fleetwide this summer.

The menu items will not only be vegan but will also be prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar—and are gluten-free .

Related: How to Eat Whole30 (ish) on a Cruise

“We’ve seen an increased demand for whole-food, plant-based dishes from our customers, and we’re really excited to work with the NHA to bring them something that’s nutritious and delicious. As a side benefit, plant-based foods also reduce our environmental footprint —a major goal of Windstar’s—allowing us to tread more lightly on this planet.” continued Tobler, who oversees food and beverage operations for the cruise line.

Windstar has begun training its culinary team on the new vegan menu and plans to launch the program fleetwide in June. Lacto-ovo vegetarian options , as well as the line’s existing omnivore menu items , will continue to be served as usual.

Wanda Huberman , executive director of the National Health Association, worked closely with Windstar’s culinary team. Huberman shared NHA expertise and discussed Windstar-developed recipes that meet the organization’s standards for an exclusive whole-plant food diet and lifestyle .

Related: How to Avoid Gaining Weight on a Cruise

“The Windstar culinary team has knocked it out of the park in executing the specific requirements of our meals,” Huberman said in a press release. “Every meal is absolutely delicious and served in a beautiful presentation with so much variety that no one will leave a meal feeling hungry or less than satisfied.”

The new vegan menu on Windstar evolved out of hosting several plant-based groups, which have grown significantly in popularity since the start of the pandemic.

Lisa McCarl , a former open heart recovery nurse turned travel advisor, has booked several plant-based groups on Windstar and says there is a huge demand for healthy travel options.

What to expect from Windstar’s new plant-based menu

Windstar has released a sneak peek at some of the dishes from the new menu, including:

Roasted Butternut Squash Velouté with baked pumpkin seeds
Baked Cauliflower Croquettes with salsa verde and sautéed spinach
Penne Rigate Pasta with crisp vegetables and Espelette pepper sauce
Veggie Enchiladas with black bean & cilantro sauce
Chia Seed Truffles with dates & coconut sauce
Tahini Brownies with fresh strawberries

The cruise line also reports that fresh smoothies will also be available daily at breakfast as part of the new plant-based offerings.

About Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a fleet of six boutique ships and sailing yachts carrying 148 to 342 guests each. The cruise line offers two ship classes: Wind Class sailing ships and the all-suite Star Plus Class , which are motor powered.

The company’s ultra-luxury small ship cruises sail throughout Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Panama Canal , Asia, Alaska and British Columbia, Canada & New England , the US west coast and Mexico, Arabia, and the South Pacific.

Related: 10 Scenic Ports You Can Visit on a Canada and New England Cruise

Windstar maintains one ship, Wind Spirit , year-round in Tahiti. In 2024, Wind Spirit will be replaced in Tahiti by Star Breeze , Windstar’s newly-renovated 312-guest yacht.

In 2019, the company launched the $250 million Star Plus Initiative to transform the three Star Plus Class yachts with new suites, restaurants, and a world-class spa and fitness center.

Windstar is known for immersive experiences, destination authenticity, port-intensive itineraries, exceptional service, and an innovative culinary program.

Related: Which Cruise Lines Have All-Inclusive Cruises

What do you think about Windstar’s new plant-based menu initiative? Does it make you more likely to consider cruising with them? I’d love to hear your opinion in the comments below!

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Inspiration for Your Gluten-Free Journey

The Disney Dream Cruise ship in the port, grass and a palm tree in the foreground, ship, ocean and port in the background

Insider’s Guide to a Fantastic Gluten-Free Disney Cruise

In the celiac community, cruise lines have a stellar reputation for providing safe food for gluten-free cruisers. While Disney Parks are pioneers in accommodating food allergies in the theme park world.

When you put Disney and cruising together, gluten-free travelers experience the best of the best in Disney Cruise Line (DCL) vacations.

First-time gluten-free cruisers will be floored.

DCL provides more than simply gluten-free food. You’ll have excellent gluten-free food, endless options, quality, and variety that is equivalent to the “regular food” others are eating. It’s an exceptional experience for those of us who usually have to plan, prepare, and tote food on vacation.

Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. To learn more, visit our Disclosures .

gluten-free chocolate mousse walnut cake

Is a Disney Cruise Right for You?

Disney cruises are particularly suited for:

Celiac cruisers: Read this entire post to learn why!
Disney Fans: Disney themes are everywhere.
Families with young children: Aside from the Disney theme, every kid-friendly detail is covered, particularly in the awesome kids club.
Families of four, and especially families of five: Disney staterooms are larger than most cruise lines, giving you more room to move around comfortably. There are cabins that sleep five, making it a real bargain for families of five fitting in one stateroom.
Travelers with multiple allergies or special dietary needs: Disney is amazing with this, whether you have two dietary needs or eight.

A Disney cruise may not be a good fit for:

Folks who don’t enjoy Walt Disney World or Disney films.
Travelers working on a tight budget: A Disney cruise is a premium product at a premium price.

A quick word about the last one. We’ve all been there. Sometimes, the budget just doesn’t match the dream. It’s okay to tweak the dream. Pick a different cruiseline with a current promotional offer. Most cruise lines are highly-skilled at accommodating celiac disease and gluten intolerance, and often at a much more affordable price point than Disney.

If you think a Disney Cruise is a good fit for you, read on.

Pre-Trip Preparation

Notify Disney before your trip that you are on a gluten-free diet. Complete DCL’s “Request Special Services” form online up to three days prior to embarkation.

Follow up with a phone call or have your travel agent call to make sure everything is properly noted. This is not absolutely necessary, but it is an added safeguard.

If you have questions before you sail or complex dietary needs, you can email [email protected] .

Read and understand DCL’s allergy guidance .

Miss E with her hand blocking the sun, smiling with the Disney Dream cruise ship in the background

Review the basic dining options on your particular Disney ship . DCL has five cruise ships:

Disney Wish (the newest and largest)
Disney Dream
Disney Fantasy
Disney Magic
Disney Wonder

The restaurants vary a bit by ship , particularly on the Disney Wish. On all ships, you will have some version of main dining restaurants, a buffet option ( Marceline Market on the Wish and Cabanas on the other ships), adult-only upscale restaurants (extra charge), quick-service options on the pool deck, and in-room dining.

Pack essential snacks for your cruise. While Disney will have you covered on the ship, you’ll want prepackaged snacks on hand for excursions. The rest of the items on the following snack list are completely optional.

Snack Packing List

Prepackaged nuts, crackers, and protein bars : Prepackaged snacks are critical and will hold you over on excursion days and for your trip home. Disney’s guidelines require that the items are factory-sealed when you board.
Gluten-free ramen in a cup : This is another great option for excursions and the flight home. It’s perfect if having a hot meal on the go is important to you. You’ll just need hot water from a server at your excursion restaurant or from a flight attendant.
Water: Most beverages are included on your Disney Cruise, but not bottled water. At nearly $30 for a 12-pack of water delivered to your stateroom, some cruisers bring their own water. It must be factory-sealed and in your carry-on luggage . Better, yet, bring a refillable water bottle, which you can fill on the ship and take off with you for port excursions.
Candy: You can buy candy at the ship’s movie theater snack stand, but you’ll have your gluten-free favorites (and save a few dollars) if you bring your own.
Reusable straws: Like most cruise lines, Disney offers no straw or paper straws only, and some brands contain gluten.
Gluten-free sprinkles: Add these to your soft-serve ice cream. Many, not all, Betty Crocker sprinkles are labeled gluten-free.

Embarkation Day

Visit the Onboard Dining Session on the first day during boarding hours. When you arrive on the ship, ask a cast member where the dining session is being held. Head there to speak with dining leads. Let them know you have celiac disease and they can answer any questions and put you at ease.

You have a few options for your first lunch on board:

One of the main dining restaurants will be open. You can order off a menu and get familiar with the process of the main dining rooms. Be sure to mention your dietary restrictions when you order.
Enjoy a buffet at Cabanas (or Marceline Market on the Wish). Ask for the head server, who can walk you through the buffet pointing out gluten-free dishes. The server can bring you safe food from the kitchen, not directly off the buffet, due to cross-contamination.
Head to the pool deck and order casual, quick-service food.

Cabanas dining room with tables and a wall of windows, beach in the background

At dinner on the first night, your assigned server will show you which menu items are gluten-free. Options will be more limited for this first dinner.

After dinner, your server will help you select food for the next day.

Express your dietary needs and any special requests clearly on the first night. Your server will follow you each night as you rotate through the main dining rooms, and can provide a better dining experience with this information.

Have reasonable expectations for embarkation day and then set them very high after that. The first lunch and dinner menus have fewer options for last-minute modifications. But the following days, with advance notice, the chefs can work Disney Magic.

Main Dining Restaurants

a boy and dad looking at Crush on the screen in the Disney Cruise dining room

DCL offers nightly rotational dining in its three main dining restaurants. The themed restaurants vary by ship. Disney will assign you a schedule that rotates your party through each of the dining rooms at dinner. As you rotate rooms, your assigned server, who knows your dietary needs , rotates with you for every dinner!

Note: You’ll choose a nightly seating time (early or late) prior to sailing. Early dining books up quickly, so make that selection as soon as your Advanced Booking Window opens, if early dining is important to you.

Disney’s allergy guidance notes that the main dining restaurants and specialty restaurants have more resources to meet dietary needs and requests. If you wish to eat entirely at these table service restaurants, each ship has at least one main dining restaurant open for breakfast and lunch .

Tip! Request gluten-free rolls with dinner.

Sometimes you don’t know what you want. We’re used to so few options. Being asked, “well, what would you like?” can be overwhelming. Refer to the regular menus for inspiration or keep an eye out for something that looks good at another cruiser’s table.

If you’re disappointed with a particular night’s dessert, ask for a donut, ice cream, or Mickey bar, all of which can usually be served quickly on the spot.

Disney’s wait staff is generally wonderful. If you are unlucky and yours is not helping you have a fabulous food experience, please politely ask for the head waiter. If you are a bit uncomfortable “rocking the boat”, the head waiter usually does a nightly check-in at each table.

Unrelated to gluten, the art in Animator’s Palate (on every ship but Disney Wish) is particularly spectacular and unique for Pirate Night. You can contact DCL prior to the cruise to request a dining rotation that has you in Animator’s Palate on Pirate Night. Requests aren’t guaranteed.

Gluten-Free Menu Options

Disney Wish has a separate food allergy menu. Some of the allergy-menu dishes are only on the allergy menu and not even listed on the regular menus.

The Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder have gluten-free items clearly marked on the regular menu.

Menus are available as a hard-copy, traditional menu in the restaurants or via the Navigator app:

Preordering Food for the Next Day

After dinner each night, your server will have you select your meals for the next day. You may order all your meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Preordering is great for the pickiest of eaters (you can order mac & cheese every night) and for the most adventurous cruisers, as it opens up the most options.

While preordering does cut down on spontaneity, it means your food will be ready with the rest of your party’s food, and the chef will have more flexibility in granting your requests.

Don’t like the menu options at the following night’s rotational restaurant? Simply preorder from any restaurant’s menu. Your food will still be served to you at your assigned restaurant.

You aren’t limited to the dishes marked gluten-free. If your favorite dish is on the regular menu, but not gluten-free, just ask if there’s a way the chef can make it gluten-free.

Make Special Requests!

Just ask! The chefs are incredibly accommodating. Let them know what you need. If you want chocolate cake every night, simply ask your server. Make these special requests the day before.

Order pasta. As my favorite food, pasta is always on my wish list. Even if it’s not marked gluten-free on the menu, most of the pasta dishes can be made gluten-free.

Picky eaters are a Disney specialty. Kid favorites like mac & cheese and chicken tenders are available gluten-free. If your child wants gluten-free grilled cheese for every dinner, just make your special request to your server.

gluten-free cake, topped with ice cream, topped with whipped cream

Like to be surprised? For dessert, ask for the chef’s choice and let Disney surprise you. Or make special requests: flan, creme brulee, flourless chocolate cake, orange almond cake, carrot cake, cheesecake, brookies, cookies, ice cream sundaes, and sorbets are all available, with notice.

Savvy gluten-free cruisers make chef’s choice special requests like “chef’s choice cake”, “chef’s choice sundae”, and “chef’s choice chocolate dessert”.

Join the Go Gluten Freely Newsletter for:

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Marceline Market or Cabanas Buffet

Cabanas , on the Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder, offers a breakfast and lunch buffet.

On the Disney Wish, Marceline Market offers Disney’s take on a Food Market with several stalls serving buffet-style breakfast and lunch.

Don’t risk cross-contamination by eating off the buffet. Request food from the back or place a preorder.

You can preorder your buffet breakfast or lunch with your server the night before to save time and have more options. Let the head server in Cabanas/Marceline know about your preorder when you arrive at the restaurant, and it will be delivered in about 5-10 minutes.

If you don’t preorder, I recommend heading to the buffet about 30 minutes before the rest of your family. The gluten-free food will be ready when the gluten-eaters show up to hit the buffet.

Breakfast offerings include gluten-free donuts, muffins, waffles, pancakes, and French toast, along with naturally gluten-free items, like bacon, omelets, and fruit.

Order Mickey waffles at least once.

Ask your dinner server which day(s) they are serving churro Mickey waffles, and order your gluten-free churro Mickey waffles the night before.

Buffet lunch options include salads, soups, meat and fish dishes, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, fruit, and desserts.

On most nights, Cabanas and Marceline Market, transform into a sit-down, casual restaurant for dinner. Check the Navigator app for the schedule on your particular cruise. Note, your regular server will still be at your assigned rotational restaurant, so make your dietary needs clear to the Cabanas/Marceline server.

Pool Side Quick-Service Options

There is no shortage of kid-friendly food on the pool deck.

A fan favorite is endless soft-serve ice cream. Ask for a gluten-free ice cream cone from the cast member by the soft-serve ice cream machine. The staff will change gloves before getting you a gluten-free cone.

soft service ice cream in a gluten-free ice cream cone, ocean and sand & balcony railing in the background

Or make a float. Get soda from the fountain, then add soft serve.

The pool deck has several food counters where you’ll find salad, chicken tenders, pizza, hotdogs on a gluten-free bun, burgers on a gluten-free bun, and fries.

Everything takes a little longer to make safely gluten-free, but the gluten-free pizza can take particularly long, about 15-20 minutes. Order before you are hungry and while the kids are busy with other activities.

Miss E smiling behind a table full of gluten-free pepperoni pizza, bowl of sliced fruit, gluten-free cheeseburger & fries

Looking for the best celiac favorites around the ship? Check out 18 Gluten-Free Favorites for Your Upcoming Disney Cruise for drool-worthy inspiration.

Specialty, Adult-Only Dining (Extra Charge)

Adults-only dining options are available on each ship. They require a reservation and are not included in the price of the cruise (additional charge).

Specialty Restaurants vary by ship:

Palo Steakhouse (Wish) and Palo (Dream, Fantasy, Magic & Wonder) are more affordable than the other options.
Remy (Dream & Fantasy)
Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement (Wish)

These upscale, specialty restaurants accommodate gluten-free in full Disney fashion, from gluten-free bread service and chocolate soufflé at Palo to wagyu beef and buttermilk chocolate at Remy. You won’t be disappointed if you decide to splurge on one of these restaurants.

Brunch at a specialty restaurant is a great option on a sea day!

These specialty restaurants are popular. Prior to sailing, book an Advance Reservation .

In-Room Dining

Items marked as gluten-free on the in-room dining menu are limited. But this is Disney! Just ask.

You can usually order Mickey bars 24 hours a day, via in-room dining.

Some items on the room service menu are not marked gluten-free but can be made gluten-free upon request.

Popular gluten-free room service items include Kinnikinnik Donuts, a fruit & cheese plate, cookies, fries, pizza, and burgers on gluten-free buns.

Hot meals may require extra notice and patience, but donuts are available quickly. Sometimes the donuts show up as a whole box!

gluten-free room service on a tray: 2 berry smoothies, mixed berries in a bowl, plate with pancakes and fruit, bowl of syrup, bowl of donuts

As you will find all over the ship, special requests are often honored for room service. All I had to do was ask, and berry smoothies were delivered to my room with breakfast.

Gluten-free hot items from room service should be ordered earlier in the evening or the chef may be gone for the night. If Disney can’t accommodate your late-night request, ask for a Mickey bar for your midnight snack.

While most room service items are complimentary, some items, like candy and alcohol are available for a charge.

Even when ordering complimentary items, tips are appropriate for this extra service.

Royal Court Royal Tea or Olaf’s Royal Picnic (Extra Charge)

Olaf’s Royal Picnic (on the Wish) and Royal Court Royal Tea (on the Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder) are premium character dining experiences for children, available at an extra charge. Your party must have at least one child ages 3 to 12 and at least one adult.

There are other opportunities for character meet-and-greets , that are included in the price of your cruise, without the fancy food experience.

Both the included and extra encounters book up quickly, usually in advance of sailing.

The premium experiences are pricey and deserve the extra effort of an allergy consultation. Discuss the menu with cast members at the Onboard Dining Session on embarkation day.

There are food activities in the kids’ club that involve gluten, such as cookie decorating.

These activities are pre-scheduled and in one area of the club. Cast members clean up thoroughly after the cooking events.

I simply make other plans for my daughter during those activities, so she isn’t in the kids club feeling left out. If your child would rather be in the Kids Club, there are plenty of other activities happening for kids not participating in the food project.

Outside snacks are not allowed in the kids club.

However, lunch and dinner are served there. Work with your regular server from the main dining restaurant rotation to pre-order a gluten-free meal with your child’s favorite foods.

Eating successfully gluten-free and free of cross-contamination (which for celiacs is the only kind of gluten-free there is) can vary by location.

If you are on a Mediterranean Cruise, you will find a higher level of celiac awareness at the ports. In the Caribbean, it’s more challenging.

Research your destinations in advance. Use the Find Me Gluten Free App for reviews or reach out directly to restaurants on/near your excursion to determine if you can be accommodated. Find Me Gluten Free has a free version and a paid, premium version. (Use the code GOGLUTENFREELY for $5 off the premium version.)

Consider shorter excursions, so you can get back to the ship for meals. For example, my family opted for a half-day dolphin encounter over an all-day experience.

Eat a big breakfast on the ship.

Pack snacks. Crackers, protein bars, nuts, chips. Disney only allows pre-packaged food back on the ship, so just open what you plan to eat or expect to toss already opened products.

In a pinch, ask for prepackaged Udi’s muffins or Kinnikinnik Donuts and take them off the ship for the day. Discuss options with your server at dinner.

Check port restrictions for your destinations. Some ports will not allow you to take anything off the ship. Others will allow only prepackaged foods. There are often restrictions regarding fruit, meat, and dairy.

Head straight to the pool deck for a late lunch when you return to the ship.

If you are close to the port (not always possible), you can head back to the cruise ship for lunch, and then venture back out for exploring in the afternoon.

Castaway Cay, Disney’s Private Island

Preorder your food for Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas.

Choices typically include burgers, hot dogs, chicken strips, BBQ chicken and ribs, salmon, rice, corn on the cob, french fries, veggies, baked potatoes, potato salad, potato chips, cookies, ice cream, and spice cake.

plate with baked potato, mixed veggies and grilled chicken

Allergy meals are picked up at Cookies 1 on Castaway Cay. They are made on the ship and then brought to Cookies 1.

Order more food than you think you’ll eat. They’ll have it ready for you, but they can’t make more on the spot if you decide you want a burger to go with your ribs.

Soft drinks, soft-serve ice cream, and pre-packaged potato chips are available on the island.

Debarkation Day

Debarkation Day breakfast has fewer options, for everyone, but especially for guests with special diets. Here are some options:

Sit-down breakfast in a main dining restaurant with your regular server.
Buffet breakfast at Cabanas or Marceline Market. Options are more limited than on other days.
Order an extra dessert on your last night, get it to go, and eat it for breakfast.
Order Kinnikinnik Donuts from room service before midnight the night prior.

Note: room service is not available on the last morning.

With either the main dining restaurant or buffet, preorder your breakfast with your dinner server, so it gets a little extra attention in the rush of debarkation day.

Buzz, Woody and Jessie toys set up like they are hanging out on the cruise ship... Buzz is standing & looking at a brochure, Woody is seated looking at a program, and Jessie is sitting with her hat off

Heading Home

Traveling by car or continuing your vacation at a nearby hotel makes it easy to stop by a safe restaurant or a grocery store after disembarking the ship.

For those heading straight from the ship to the airport, it is more challenging. Here are a few easy options:

Pack enough prepackaged snacks (nuts, crackers, protein bars) to last for your travel day.
Pair your prepackaged snacks with fruit, cheese, meat sticks, and yogurt purchased at an airport shop for a picnic-style meal.
Starbucks, ubiquitous at airports, sells fabulous gluten-free marshmallow dream bars for dessert. They are like a rice crispy treat, but better.
Consider airport restaurant options. For example, Orlando International Airport has Chipotle, Jersey Mike’s, and Chick-fil-A, depending on your terminal. These three restaurants are not dedicated gluten-free but have good gluten-free protocols. Always ask about cross-contamination and safety protocols when ordering. Note that airport restaurant locations usually have smaller kitchens and limited menus, so stick to a picnic if they don’t pass your safety questions.
Pack gluten-free Ramen in a cup for the flight home. Ask your flight attendant for hot water, and you’ll have a hot meal.

Disney Land & Sea Vacation

Disney World castle at night with projections

A Disney Land & Sea Vacation is a back-to-back visit to Disney parks AND a Disney cruise on one amazing vacation.

Most often, the land portion is a Walt Disney World trip tied to a cruise out of Flordia, but you could easily add Disneyland in California to a cruise departing from San Diego, or a Paris Disneyland stopover to a European Disney cruise.

If you are going to splurge on an over-the-top Disney Land & Sea Vacation, I recommend doing the land portion first. The parks are just as safe for gluten-free food as the cruise ships, but they require a lot more work, planning, walking, and long days. The cruise ship feels more like a relaxing vacation and is the perfect way to end your Disney dream vacation.

Celiac Cruise: The BEST Way to Cruise Gluten-Free
How to Cruise Gluten-Free on Royal Caribbean
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Thanks so much for sharing! You have made me so excited to cruise! Do you know if they use separate gluten free fryers for the fried food ie fries, donuts etc?

You’ll love it! Disney really understands cross-contamination. The donuts are prepackaged, historically from Kinnikinnick. Gluten-free fried items like chicken tenders and French fries are not made in shared fryers. I always ask for a chef at the buffets and make sure I’ve communicated that I have celiac disease to the maitre d and my waiter in the rotational dining rooms.

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Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
June 4, 2009. #1. Posted October 23. Good day. I read that, in March 2023, Windstar enhanced its plant-based food options. Can any recent Windstar cruisers -- pre- or post March 2023 -- advise on the variety and quality of the vegan and gluten-free options on-board (e.g., tofu, veggie burgers, gluten-free pasta).
Can Winstar accommodate gluten-free diet?
4.2k. May 7, 2010. North Carolina. #1. Posted January 4, 2012. I've been looking with interest at Windstar's Istanbul to Athens cruises. Main problem is DH loves blaconies (that he could get over), one DD is a vegetarian (figured she could find something to eat) but the other DD requires a gluten-free diet. I did a quick search on this forum ...
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
June 4, 2009. #1. Posted October 23, 2023. Good day. I read that, in March 2023, Windstar enhanced its plant-based food options. Can any recent Windstar cruisers -- pre- or post March 2023 -- advise on the variety and quality of the vegan and gluten-free options on-board (e.g., tofu, veggie burgers, gluten-free pasta).
PDF Windstar Cruises Announces New Whole-Food, Plant-Based Menu in
are gluten-free. Windstar has begun training its culinary team on the new menu and plans to roll out the program fleetwide in June. Vegetarian options, as well as the line's existing omnivore menu ... Windstar Cruises operates a fleet of six boutique all-suite and sailing yachts carrying 148-342 guests. Small ship cruises sail throughout ...
What to Know If You Want to Cruise Gluten-Free
Buffets Are Harder to Navigate. Buffets are the hardest dining venue on any cruise ship to do gluten-free. Other than at breakfast where it's a bit easier to pick out what doesn't have gluten ...
Windstar Cruises to Launch New Whole-Food, Plant-Based Menu
Windstar Cruises has partnered with the National Health Association (NHA) to create a new vegan menu on board all six of its small ships. The offerings are plant-based, gluten-free and prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar. Windstar has started training its culinary team on the new menu and plans to roll out the program fleetwide in June.
How to Stay Gluten-Free on Your Cruise
In many cases, gluten-free options can be provided at the time of the meal as well. Email the line's operations team at least 90 days prior to sailing. Royal Caribbean International. Meet with the restaurant manager every night to discuss menu options for the following day. Most meals can be gluten-free upon request.
Word Class Culinary Experience Aboard Windstar Cruises
Announcing our flavorful, healthy, and delectable plant-based SOS-free program: no salt, no sugar, no oil, and gluten-free, yet delicious dishes. Try veggie enchiladas, crispy kefta of lentil and beet, or chocolate delight cake to name a few of our wide variety of plant-based innovations. ... Windstar Cruises. 8400 NW 36th St. Suite 520; Miami ...
Windstar Launches New Whole-Food, Plant-Based Menu
Windstar Cruises has partnered with the National Health Association (NHA) to create a new vegan menu onboard all six of the line's yachts, starting June 2023. The plant-based, gluten-free ...
Gluten Free Dining?
Windstar Cruises ; Gluten Free Dining? Gluten Free Dining? By Second seating, May 24, 2014 in Windstar Cruises. Share More sharing options... Followers 1. Recommended Posts. Second seating. Posted May 24, 2014. Second seating. Members; 545 November 11, 2002; NH #1 Share;
Windstar Cruises Dining
Windstar Cruises Dining. With a cruise line as luxurious and detail-oriented as Windstar Cruises, you can expect only the best dining experience and cuisine - and Windstar delivers. ... Windstar also accommodates dietary restrictions - such as food allergies or gluten-free needs - and prepares special menu items for these guests. Dinner ...
Has Anyone Cruised Windstar?
Our waiter ordered fresh baked gluten-free muffins and breads for all our meals. We discussed all food items with him at each meal. We tipped big! And I wrote personal letters to the cruise lines thanking and mentioning each person who helped me. I drink soymilk in my free cruise coffee and got some each time from the Starbucks counter free.
General Information About Your Cruise With Windstar Cruises
Depending on the country of embarkation, flowers may not be available 1 to 2 weeks prior to sailing. Check out the gift order form below. For more information or to place a gift order directly, please call us at 1-800-258-7245 or write Windstar Cruises Guest Services, 8400 NW 36th St. Suite 520, Miami, FL U.S.A. 33166.
Allergies Experience on WS: Gluten Free esp
HI All, could find no info here on gluten free on WS so wondering if someone could provide info.. I just off Azamara and they were spectacular with my gluten free need. went over and above..Celebrity not so good..... anyone have allergy experiences in WS? ... Windstar Cruises ; Allergies Experience on WS: Gluten Free esp Announcing Our 2023 ...
Gluten Free Dining?
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Adds Vegan Menu to Main Dining Room Options; Summer Cruise Deals 2019; Virgin Voyages to Launch Craft Beer on New Cruise Ship (and You Can Vote to Name It) Norwegian Cruise Line Showcases New Culinary & Beverage Offerings on Soon-to-Launch Cruise Ship, Norwegian Encore; 5 Caribbean Cruise Deals Under $55/Night
Windstar Cruises Announces New Whole-Foods Plant-Based menu
Windstar Cruises has started to work with the brand's culinary team on the new menu and plans to roll out the program fleetwide in June. All food is gluten-free and will be prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar. The line will have vegetarian and meat options. Wanda Huberman, executive director of the National Health Association, worked ...
How to Stay Gluten-Free on Your Cruise
Overview: Discuss meal options with the head waiter on the first night of the cruise. Gluten-free bread, pasta, cake, pizza, and beer are all available onboard. When dining in the Lido restaurant, speak with the senior dining staff before hitting the buffet. ... Windstar Cruises. Overview: After boarding, you can discuss the gluten-free options ...
Windstar Cruises Announces New Plant-Based Menu
The offerings are not only plant-based but also prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar and are gluten-free. Windstar has begun training its culinary team on the new menu and plans to roll out the program fleetwide in June. Vegetarian options, as well as the line's existing omnivore menu items, will continue to be served as usual.
Special diets
My husband and I just completed our 5th Windstar cruise. We follow a vegan diet, and our TA has made arrangements for our special needs to be communicated to the chef prior to embarkation for each cruise. On the first three cruises, a complete vegan menu was prepared for us for breakfast, lunch, ...
What it's like eating gluten-free on a cruise
At every meal for the rest of the cruise, a waiter would bring my mom pre-packaged, gluten-free bread products. At breakfast, it might be a packaged muffin or croissant. At dinner, it was one of two kinds of rolls. It was always a surprise, and variety was limited. (To be fair, the regular dinner rolls didn't have much variety either.)
Cruise Line Adds Vegan Meals to Culinary Offerings
Windstar Cruises, operator of a fleet of all-suite and sailing yachts, plans to roll out a full, plant-based and gluten-free vegan menu that expands the line's traditional meat and vegetarian ...
Windstar Cruises Announces New Vegan Plant-Based Menu
Windstar Cruises' new vegan menu. Windstar's new plant-based menu, which started as a special offering for groups and charters, will roll out fleetwide this summer. The menu items will not only be vegan but will also be prepared without added salt, oil, and sugar—and are gluten-free. "The National Health Association points out that ...
Insider's Guide to a Fantastic Gluten-Free Disney Cruise
A fan favorite is endless soft-serve ice cream. Ask for a gluten-free ice cream cone from the cast member by the soft-serve ice cream machine. The staff will change gloves before getting you a gluten-free cone. Or make a float. Get soda from the fountain, then add soft serve.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

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