Stockholm, Sweden ~ I shall begin my cruise report from where it ended. Yes, by the time the Wind Surf arrived in Stockholm on the 10th day of our voyage, I knew I was going to have a difficult time disembarking this impressive vessel, and saying goodbye to so many new-found friends from around the world! After all, with only 300 passengers on board, it was easy to get to know one another, sharing delicious meals, and comparing notes on the many explorations we were offered at every stop. Yes, by the time we said our goodbyes, we had grown into one very large, happy, cruising family–each member leaving with priceless memories and adventure stories that will only become more vivid as they will surely be repeated time and time again. If you’ve ever had a desire to make new friends who share your passion for travel, then may I suggest you take up “The Art of Cruising!” For our voyage, we had seasoned British Captain J. Peter Harris at the helm!
The Windstar Cruises’ sleek schooner, The Wind Surf wove a Scandinavian itinerary for our splendid Summer Sail…guaranteeing one breathtaking sunset after another!
The happiest seafarer I’ve ever met — The Wind Surf’s Captain J. Peter Harris! He took the time to meet every passenger on board, and as far as I could tell–he actually knew everyone by name! Now that is no easy feat–but then again, neither is navigating our stunning “schooner” as the Captain refers to our gorgeous Wind Surf across these Baltic waters. Captain Harris does it all with such calm and grace, inspiring me to entitle our future ESCAPESEEKER episode script, “The Art Of Cruising: Navigating with Grace!”
Our final stop, Stockholm. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, Stockholm offers visitors and locals alike, a plethora of exciting activities and dining offerings to please even the most discerning palate!
On any given day, the 310-guest Windstar Cruises’ flagship, Wind Surf, attracts admiring glances wherever she goes…as she glides gracefully into port with her tall sails dancing with the wind. As a passenger, I rarely missed an opportunity to go bridge side just to partake of her “awesomeness” as the young guests often described her in action!
YACHT FACTS
CAPACITY: 310 Guests
STATEROOMS: 122 deluxe ocean view staterooms
SUITES: 31 deluxe ocean view suites
BRIDGE DECK SUITES: 2 deluxe ocean view bridge suites
DECKS: 6 decks
CREW: 191 international staff
SHIP’S REGISTRY: Bahamas
LENGTH: 535 feet (162 meters) at waterline; 617 feet (187meters) including bowsprit
DRAFT: 16.5 feet (5 meters)
TONNAGE: 14,745 gross registered tons (grt)
BEAM: 66 feet (20 meters)
SAILS: 7 triangular, self-furling, computer-operated sails with 26,881 square feet (or 2,600 square meters) of Dacron surface area
MASTS: 5 at 164 feet (50 meters)
ENGINES: 4 diesel electric generating sets, 2 electrical propulsion motor
SPEED: 10 to 12 knots with engines only; up to 15 knots wind and engine assisted
It is undeniable…there’s something about the salty fresh air, the endless horizon, and the knowledge that by the time you greet the morning sun, you’ll be met with another stunning postcard-perfect, mind-expanding exploration opportunity–what’s not to love about “The Art of Cruising”?
Each time I savor my time on deck, I am reminded by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s words, “The health of the eye seems to demand a horizon. We are never tired, so long as we can see far enough.”
Cruising is an outstanding way to make new life-long friends!
Our Scandinavian itinerary offered something for everyone…for the young and the young at heart!
Copenhagen is vibrant and beaming with activity. If you wish to interact with the locals…this is the place!
We were blessed with the bluest skies throughout our voyage. Perhaps Mother Nature knew it was my birthday month and thought I deserved celebrating during the most beautiful, endless days of Summer?
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ESCAPESEEKER!
In case you’re wondering about the Wind Surf’s meñu…well, here’s a sneak peak…everyday felt like a birthday celebration…as it should be right? Life is short…Eat dessert first! I’ll end this report on a sweet note. It’s time you find out for yourselves. So what are you waiting for…with a click of the hand, you too, can be on your way…your first course on mastering “The Art of Cruising!” www.windstarcruises.com
Here’s to Blissful Endless Escapes…and Remember, no matter where you go, be the kindest person you know!
With love,
Mel
Lobster feast anyone?
It’s always nice to get a visit during dinner from Chef Monty…
I predict you won’t be able to refuse the nightly sweet endings…
If seafood isn’t your favorite fare…no worries!
Snapshots…Smiles we shall remember for a lifetime…
If you wish to learn more about what kind of training it takes to be part of Captain Harris’ brilliant team–just ask…they’re more than happy to share their knowledge and passion for the sea!
Being “Berliners” in Berlin with my new cruising friends from Northern California, Barbara and Heidy!
The Art of Cruising…what a beautiful way to explore the world…
Our Hotel Director, just making sure we’re all doing great! I think the smiles on our faces speak volumes!
Happy Cruisers Indeed!
Postcard-Perfect Lillesand, Norway…The Wind Surf afforded us an “Up close and Personal” experience!
Edinburgh, Scotland…seems apropos that our voyage would begin where MAGIC is used to describe every day occurrence…for MAGICAL is exactly how our voyage felt right from the start! Thank you Windstar Cruises for living up to your slogan…
“Always 180 degrees from ordinary!”
[Select Images by Photojournalist, Mel Gee Henderson aka “The ESCAPESEEKER”]
