LJWECOC

Few stops on European sailings allow the water sports platform to be used. Either too cold or to crowded.

I love tender ports for several reasons: 1. Tendering on Windstar ships is fast and convenient but, as with all ships, keeping your footing while hopping onto any tender requires a bit of agility. I'm in my late 70s and have never had any problem with tender operations. Logistics are not at all like tendering on huge ships. 2. A tender port in the Caribbean means the water sports platform is likely to be open! For that reason alone I love them.

We have always been partial to Wind Star and Wind Spirit and may book another cruise for winter 2025. After reading a few negative comments about their pre-renovation condition, we are slightly hesitant. We are not ultra-picky, but we are wondering what some recent guests have to say about the condition of cabins and common areas. I'm confident crew and food remain excellent.

I've been to St Barts a few times over the years and taken a couple of non-memorable side trips. Mostly overpriced high-end tourist shops. As I recall, the beach was packed with broken shells, painful to walk on. For my winter break this year on Wind Surf we will be stopping there twice. The water sports platform is open both days and I will be happy staying on board.

I've disembarked Windstar in Barbados a few times. It is no different than any other port. While you might be able to disembark a bit early (not hours), don't hold your breath. Port and navigational requirements, immigration, public health, customs, etc are uncontrollable. Don't make firm plans expecting anyone else to make special accommodations for you.

My philosophy is book what you want when you are satisfied with the price, the cabin selection, and can get a decent price on airfare, etc. Then stop second-guessing yourself! Windstar has always treated me fairly and occasionally upgrades my cabin later without my meddling. If I wanted bargain-basement, I'd sail Carnival.