Let’s take a tour of the Windstar Star Pride cruise ship on one of its Baltic Sea Cruise from Stockholm, Sweden, to St. Petersburg, Russia. This Windstar cruise review includes the Star Pride cabins, itinerary, ship amenities, and photos. Whether you are planning your first trip cruise or you’re a long time cruiser, you’ve come to the right place. Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube Channel as I’m making a series which includes my Star Pride Itinerary and the Windstar Shore Excursions.
A Little Background about the Star Pride Windstar
It joined the Wind Star fleet in 2014 and it holds 212 passengers. There are anywhere between a 150 and 155 staff members, which is an amazing ratio that really makes you feel cared for. I have never seen a more amazing staff anywhere and it really was my favorite part about this Baltic Sea Cruise. They put so much care, effort, and energy into every single interaction. By the end of day one, the staff was coming up and saying “Hi Kim, how are you? Would you like your gluten-free bread? Would you like your milk with your coffee this morning?” They remembered my preferences from just one interaction and did not stop offering for my entire stay! Not only does the team give us five star service they are a true family you can see by the way they work together that they all love each other, and of course they’re spending six to nine months together.
About the Star Pride Vessel
If you’re interested in the intimacy of the Star Pride in its current form, definitely get on the Star Pride prior to mid 2020. At some point in the next 12 months, they are going to dry-dock the Star Pride, cut it in half, and add 50 cabins, more dining experiences, more lounge areas and a new pool and hot tub.
A Tour of the Star Pride Ship
The Compass Rose Room: It is located on deck six at the back and aft side of the boat. The Compass Rose Room is where all the dancing is every night. They have a band playing and an open bar every single night. It’s a lot of fun!
The Library: Also on deck six at the far back and aft side of the boat. It’s more than just books, though they have a great collection which is perfect if you’re looking to curl up with a new read. It’s a quiet space with computers in case you need one and there are also a collection of DVD’s.
Getting up and Down: There are elevators both in the center and on the aft side of the decks. There are also lots of stairs including spiral staircases. You have to make sure to hold on to the rails at all times – remember, you’re on a moving ship!
Reception Desk: They really do have everything you need including your daily programs, newspapers and crosswords, as well as all the paperwork that you get in your cabins every day. Additionally, if you lose anything or need any help whatsoever, the staff at reception will help you out.
Game Room: There are board games and a large chess table in the back of the game room. There are also video games so if you’re a gamer, this is definitely the ship for you!
The Spa: As soon as you board the Star Pride Ship, make sure to go to the Spa and book all of your services during your entire trip. Things booked up fast and it’s no wonder; the ladies in the spa provide a 5 star relaxation. My favorite treatment was called “The Perfect Day” which is a 50 minute massage followed by a 25 minute facial.
The Gym and Sauna: The complimentary gym area has floor to ceiling windows, free weights, treadmills, elliptical machines and even complimentary exercise classes. I didn’t spend any time in the gym… I was too busy eating! But if you’re interested, it’s a nice space and there’s a sauna for after you get your sweat on.
Pool Area: There is one rectangular swimming pool, two whirlpools on platforms and a 3rd whirlpool at the ship’s bow (which is actually my favorite spot on the whole ship!) There are plenty of chairs for sunbathing and even some shady areas if you’d like to stay out of the sun.
The Star Bar: A great area for an evening glass of wine outside on the top deck. There is live entertainment and more dancing!
Yacht Club: a lot of people in here reading doing puzzles this is where you get snacks and coffee during the day when they’re actually about serving a real meal in
Lounge: This is where all of the lectures were held along with the Staff talent show. It is the ship’s theatre and a great space to gather and learn or be entertained!
The Bridge: Windstar has an Open Bridge Policy – not all ships allow this. This means you can take a tour of the Bridge with the captain. I was too afraid to ask to sit in the captain’s chair but next time!
I want to say a big heartfelt thank you to the entire crew. I have thoroughly enjoyed my Windstar Star Pride Cruise and I am going to preach Windstar to the entire world! If you want to be notified of my new videos, join the travel tribe.
