Windstar Cruises Asia & Arabia Brochure 2017/2018

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ASIA & AR ABIA VOYAG E C O L L E C T I O N 2 0 1 7/ 2 0 1 8


W I N D S TA R ’ S

A SI A & A R A BI A

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owhere else in the world will you find such a stunning juxtaposition of ancient traditions and contemporary cultures. Mystic temples give way to soaring skyscrapers while tranquil, timeless villages neighbor pulsating, modern cities. Windstar brings you the best of both worlds, taking you to the heart of cosmopolitan marvels like Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Bangkok and the exotic shores of small villages and unspoiled tropical islands larger ships cannot reach. Explore the ancient wonders of Egypt and diverse UNESCO World Heritage Sites throughout India, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Experience more of Asia and Arabia in a style uniquely Windstar.

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SMALL SHIP

LUXURY

ALL-SUITE ACCOM MODATIONS

Y o u r E x q u i s i t e Ya c h t

Relax in Comfor t

tar Legend accommodates just 212 guests, leaving plenty of room for spacious suites, decadent dining, and all the trappings of Windstar’s private yacht style — from a signature Watersports Platform to the classic Yacht Club observation lounge at the top. The recently renovated Star Legend combines celebrity glamour with the country clubcasual atmosphere Windstar guests treasure.

After an elegant meal in AmphorA or romantic Candles, you have your choice of entertainments. Enjoy a relaxing massage in WindSpa. Stop by the Screening Room for the latest movie. Watch from the Bridge as the next tiny harbor or hidden cove comes into view. Or simply relax in your suite with its lush amenities and expansive ocean view.

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LEGEND

STAR LEGEND

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A B OA R D S TA R

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easuring a generous 277 to 575 square feet, your elegant suite offers everything you need to savor the yachting lifestyle from fine Egyptian cotton linens and overstuffed down pillows to an in-suite bar stocked with your favorite beverages. Everything else you need and expect is here too — flat screen television and DVD, Bose® SoundDock, private safe. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers and admire the panoramic views.

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LIFE

ON

BOARD

GUEST

ALWAYS I NCLUDED

Like Your Very Own

Aboard Star Legend you will enjoy…

day on board Star Legend is a day of choices, all of them good. Only on Windstar’s small ships can you explore the great outdoors by kayak, paddleboard, or sailboat directly from the Watersports Platform. Sun yourself on deck, take a dip in the whirlpool, or enjoy some “me” time in the tranquil WindSpa or Fitness Center. Afterwards, freshen up in your beautifully furnished ocean view suite before sharing a romantic dinner under the stars, followed by a visit to the Casino or dancing to live music in the Lounge. Every moment we’ll be near at hand, bringing you just the right thing at just the right time, and taking pure delight in making you smile. Make the experience your own, because on a Windstar ship, it’s all about you, and all about the impeccable service to make each moment perfect.

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• Champagne welcome reception • Beautiful Sail Away from every port • Complimentary onboard deck barbecue* • Complimentary onboard entertainment, including local performances in most regions • Beautifully appointed ocean view suite • A visit to the Open Bridge and chat with the Captain or officers at any time

• Complimentary meals, in all venues, including 24-hour room service • Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty tea and coffee drinks • Fresh flowers and fruit in your suite • Marble finished baths • Complimentary fully equipped Watersports Platform, use of all watersports equipment included* * Dependent on port and weather conditions.

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ANCIENT

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TIME.

NEW

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TOMORROW.

A R A BI A

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oin us on cruises to Arabia and India, and experience a tableau of legendary destinations in exotic lands, a shimmering combination of the antique and modern. Star Legend visits gorgeous countrysides and exciting cities, with ports of call such as Mumbai and Mangalore, Dubai, Cochin, and Salalah. Transit the Suez

Aqaba (Petra), Jordan

Canal, explore the ancient wonders of Luxor in Egypt, roam in the rosecolored ruins of Petra, and enjoy High Tea with a local family in their mansion in Mangalore — then return each night to the comfortable, casual elegance of your boutique small ship.

WONDERS OF ARABIA

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PEARLS OF THE INDIAN OCEAN

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Luxor, Egypt

WONDERS OF AR ABIA Petra and the wonders of Luxor. Rest in luxurious Red Sea resorts and the resplendent oasis of Salalah, blessed by

the khareef monsoons. Discover treasures in many forms from Egyptian tombs to frankincense to a piercing blue sky

above your stunning white ship.

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS • Pass through the narrow gorge to the famous ancient ruins of Petra, its rose-colored facade carved right into the cliff face

• Hop a camel for a ride into the desert and learn of the life of a Bedouin nomad

• Take an overland visit to Luxor, home of the Valley of the Kings, King Tut’s Tomb, Karnak and Luxor Temples, and other ancient Egyptian sites

• Snorkel amid the spectacular reefs filled with marine life in the pristine waters of the Red Sea • Discover the origins of frankincense in Oman and wander the souks in search of exotic spices

• Experience daylight transit of the historic Suez Canal, with towns to the east and desert to the west

DAY 1 • Athens, Greece After must-sees like the Parthenon, take a break to rest in the shade of the National Garden or wander over to Syntagma Square to catch the Changing of the Guard.

DAYS 2/3 • At Sea Our onboard lecturers will acquaint us as we prepare to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.

DAY 4 • Transit Suez Canal, Egypt The Suez Canal is a bit like Moses’ parting of the Red Sea in reverse, as your yacht passes between Asia and Africa along a thin ribbon of blue. Star Legend gives you a rare and intimate opportunity to experience what few are able to do. 10

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DAY 15 • Salalah, Oman

This classic Red Sea resort glitters like you would expect a “sheik’s peninsula” to glitter. But the main attraction is a humble bush at St. Catherine Monastery, located on the spot where Moses was said to have received the Ten Commandments.

Oman. A lush oasis — beautiful, fragrant, and enticing. Explore colorful souks, traditional handcrafts, the site of the Palace of the Queen of Sheba.

DAYS 16/17 • At Sea Watch for green turtles and humpbacks as we pass the Kuria Muria Islands.

DAYS 8/9 (Overnight) • Safaga, Egypt Safaga sprawls between the appropriately rosy Red Sea Mountains and black beaches, which creates a dramatic setting for your beautiful white yacht. But it’s what lies beyond those mountains that fills you with anticipation: the UNESCO wonders of Luxor.

DAYS 10 – 14 • At Sea As we sail through the Red Sea, our expert lecturers share deep insights into this fabled region. We’ll also revisit the heroism and humanity of T. E. Lawrence, as we enjoy the film “Lawrence of Arabia” in situ. Learn about desert dwelling people, from Bedouins to Christian Monastics — and master the secrets of Middle Eastern cuisine, ancient hieroglyphics, and cultural traditions.

DAY 18 • Khasab, Oman Discover why they call Oman the “Norway of Arabia” as you sail on a traditional Omani dhow through spectacular desertedged fjords. Or simply take a swim in this exotic sea.

DAY 19 • Dubai, UAE Behind Dubai’s modern marvels you can still find quiet corners where you can sip a cup of tea with mint.

DAY 5 • Hurghada, Egypt Your choices here are a symphony of contrasts. Take a thrilling 4x4 ride across undulating desert dunes. Hurghada is one of the largest resort towns along the Red Sea. Explore the Old Quarter of El Dahar, shop in the bustling souq or spend the day on one of the beautiful beaches.

DAY 6 • Aqaba, Jordan Petra whispers of legend. Carved from the canyon walls, ornate buildings form a city which once was a trading center of the world. Emerging from a narrow gorge, see the towering façade of the famous Treasury.

GREECE

(Piraeus)

Mediterranean Sea Suez Canal

I T I N E R A RY

Athens

Day 1

Aqaba

EGYPT Hurghada Safaga

(Luxor)

Dubai

JORDAN

Khasab

(Petra)

Sharm el Sheikh (St. Catherine)

Red Sea

UAE OMAN Salalah

Athens, Greece

Day 15

Salalah, Oman

Days 2/3 At Sea

Days 16/17 At Sea

Day 4

Suez Canal, Egypt

Day 18

Khasab, Oman

Day 5

Hurghada, Egypt

Day 19

Dubai, UAE

Day 6

Aqaba, Jordan

Day 7

Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt

Days 8/9 Safaga, Egypt (Overnight)

DEPARTURE DATE October 28, 2017

Days 10–14 At Sea

Arabian Sea

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ARABIA

ARABIA

ross the desert by ship through the historic Suez Canal. Visit awe-inspiring UNESCO sites from the Acropolis to

• Visit St. Catherine’s Monastery at the base of Mount Sinai, where Moses saw the burning bush

Khasab, Oman

DAY 7 • Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt

Athens to Dubai, 18 days

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Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt


Mumbai (Bombay), India

Malacca, Malaysia

PEARLS OF THE INDIAN OCEAN

DAY 6 • At Sea

DAYS 11 – 13 • At Sea

Dubai to Singapore, 16 days

DAY 7 • Mangalore, India

DAY 14 • Phuket (Patong Bay), Thailand

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n 16 delicious days you’ll visit some of the most intriguing places in the Indian Ocean and journey through time itself. Experience exhilarating cities like Dubai and Singapore with their futuristic architecture and blend of East and West.

Delve into traditional ways of life at Mumbai’s “Thieves Market,” Malacca’s Jonker Street with its reservoir of Baba Nyonya

culture, and the colonial flavor of Galle. Lounge on Phuket’s spectacular beaches with palms and casuarinas behind you and the turquoise Andaman Sea in front.

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS • Enjoy a bird’s-eye-view from the world’s tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa, in Dubai

• Take a houseboat tour in the backwater canals of Kerala and see the Chinese fishing nets of Cochin

• Glimpse Mumbai’s inner workings at Dhobi Ghat, the centuryold open-air laundry

• Visit with baby elephants in Phuket

• See for yourself the cacophony of India’s markets and diverse cultures

DAY 1 • Dubai, UAE From camel races in the desert to an indoor ski mountain. From Bedouin tents to the world’s tallest building. By all means, add a couple of days here to try and get your mind around this amazing city that seems to be all things to all people.

DAYS 2 – 4 • At Sea Indulge in the ultimate luxury — freedom, and time to enjoy it. As we cross the Arabian Sea, the world grows both wider and

• Sip a Singapore Sling at Raffles and explore world class shopping on Orchard Road • Explore the Dutch fort in Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

closer as you relax with new friends and gain insights and understanding from our onboard lectures.

DAY 5 • Mumbai (Bombay), India Greet the day with a namaste as you dive into Indian culture. Visit the Elephanta Caves where stone Shivas quietly reflect on the mischievous macaque monkeys. Sip a cup of chai tea as the lights begin to twinkle along the famed Queen’s Necklace.

The churches, temples, and mosques clue you in that this town will be peaceful and welcoming. Sample freshly roasted cashews and take in part of a Yakshagana performance — one of the finest folk art forms of South India.

DAY 8 • Cochin, India Explore leftover bits of the Netherlands and Portugal in old Fort Kochi, along with the soaring cantilevered fishing nets that are rumored to have been brought by traders from Kublai Khan’s court.

DAY 9 • At Sea DAY 10 • Galle, Sri Lanka Enjoy the quiet colonial atmosphere of the 17th century fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or just sip a cup of virgin White Tea and watch the women pass by in their vivid colored dresses.

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DAY 15 • At Sea DAY 16 • Malacca, Malaysia This is the keeper of Malaysia’s history, and it takes its position as a UNESCO World Heritage Site city seriously. Spend some quality time at the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum to discover how this interesting Chinese-Malay culture developed.

DAY 17 • Singapore Say hello to Sir Stamford Raffles’ engaging city. Explore the colonial district and the old wharf houses at Boat Quay, now full of trendy eateries.

I T I N E R A RY

Dubai UAE

INDIA

Day 1

Mumbai

Days 2–4 At Sea

(Bombay)

Mangalore

THAILAND

Cochin

Phuket

SRI LANKA

Indian Ocean

Galle

(Patong Bay)

MALAYSIA Malacca

Singapore

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Weather permitting the Watersports Platform will be open providing you with the perfect base for enjoying these famed waters. If time allows, take a boat trip through Phang Nga Bay past picturesque rock formations and the occasional stilt village. ARABIA

ARABIA

Phuket, Thailand

Dubai, UAE

Day 5

Mumbai (Bombay), India

Day 6

At Sea

Day 7

Mangalore, India

Day 8

Cochin, India

Day 9

At Sea

Day 10

Galle, Sri Lanka

Day 14

Phuket (Patong Bay), Thailand

Day 15

At Sea

Day 16

Malacca, Malaysia

Day 17

Singapore

DEPARTURE DATE November 15, 2017

Days 11–13 At Sea

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CROSSROADS

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I N TOX I C AT I N G

B E AU T Y.

A SI A

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alf a world away and as near as your dreams, Asia beckons with sights and experiences that will delight your senses and thrill your imagination. Step aboard your all-suite yacht and cruise to ports of call in modern cities and to the exotic shores of small villages in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines,

Osaka, Japan

South Korea, and more. Explore mystic isles where temples and gardens share enticing secrets and enchanting scents, as well as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and thrilling cities teeming with culture, while enjoying the best in pampered, personalized service.

SINGAPORE & THAI TREASURES

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THE BEST OF THE PHILIPPINES & BORNEO

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ICONS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

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MARVELS OF CHINA & THE JAPANESE ISLANDS

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SPLENDORS OF JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA

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GRAND JAPAN

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Singapore

SINGAPORE & THAI TREASURES Singapore to Singapore, 14 days

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ll your holiday dreams come true as you sail to exotic harbors in festive style and enjoy extended stays in port. Overnight in Singapore with time to shop the boutiques of Orchard Road and watch the city’s lights come on from atop

Explore the rampant beauty of Phang Nga Bay during two days in Phuket. In between, kayak through tranquil mangroves, snorkel from charismatic beaches, and pay your respects to the fascinating mix of cultures.

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS • Experience the urban bling of Singapore by day and return to your waiting yacht at night • Visit Penang and its colonial heart — George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Experience mangroves rich in flora and fauna or get a bird’seye-view of the rainforest wonders from high above on the Langkawi Gondola • Discover the Baba Nyonya Heritage in the UNESCO city of Malacca

DAYS 1/2 (Overnight) • Singapore Start your vacation with the world’s most iconic cocktail (a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel) in the world’s most vibrant city. By all means, sample the amazing cuisine in this epicurean capital of Asia.

• Snorkel from the pristine beaches into the neon-colored waters with time to gaze into a fiery sunset from atop Phromthep Cape as you overnight at Phuket Island • Paddle along the karst limestone cliffs exploring rock formations and sea caves of Thailand’s Ao Phang-Nga National Marine Park • Scale the highest twin towers of Kuala Lumpur for a jawdropping view of the city • Relax on the inviting and beautiful beaches of Ko Phi Phi where only small ships can take you

DAY 4 • Penang (George Town), Malaysia The culture, the cuisine, even the language here is a mishmash of Malay, English, Chinese, Indian, and more. Learn to speak a few words of Manglish (Malaysian English) to earn smiles from the friendly people in George Town.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

DAY 6 • Ko Yao Noi, Thailand

DAYS 7/8 (Overnight) • Phuket (Patong Bay), Thailand

DAY 9 • Ko Phi Phi, Thailand New Year’s Eve finds you in paradise. The beach here is Hollywood famous but there’s also a strong supporting cast of rock formations and jungle. Conditions permitting, we’ll open the Watersports Platform for a final 2017 swim then linger until after the New Year’s arrival before leaving this Shangri-La.

(Patong Bay)

Andaman Sea

Wake up this Christmas morning to a day of extravagant leisure. Forego the Fitness Center and indulge in your favorite holiday fare as you navigate the Malacca Strait.

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The question here is not if you will spend your day enjoying nature but how. Explore the ecosystem of the mangroves by kayak or launch, or take a gondola up the mountain for outstanding views of the rainforest.

THAILAND Ko Phi Phi Langkawi (Porto Malai)

South China Sea (George Town)

Malaysia’s history permeates this UNESCO World Heritage Site city. Stroll the ancient streets and let the past come alive. And don’t miss the fascinating blend of Chinese-Malay culture at the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

DAY 14 • At Sea / Evening Arrival Singapore DAY 15 • Singapore

Ipoh/Pulau Pangkor

Days 1/2

Singapore (Overnight)

Day 11

Ipoh (Lumut), Malaysia

Day 3

At Sea

Day 12

Day 4

Penang (George Town), Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia

Day 13

Malacca, Malaysia

Day 5

Langkawi (Porto Malai), Malaysia

Day 14

At Sea / Singapore (overnight)

Day 6

Ko Yao Noi, Thailand

Day 15

Singapore

(Lumut)

Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang)

Malacca

Indian Ocean

DAY 13 • Malacca, Malaysia

I T I N E R A RY

Ko Yao Noi

Penang

DAY 5 • Langkawi (Porto Malai), Malaysia

This is a city of many faces, from the aboriginal village on Carey Island to the sweeping 360° views from one of the world’s highest towers. Fortune tellers, sari shops, banana leaf restaurants. A crazy quilt of exploration.

Spend an extra day or two on your own to combine culture and couture in this amazing city.

DAY 10 • At Sea

Phuket

Admire the Straits Eclectic architecture, compliments of Ipoh’s large Chinese population. Pass shopkeepers selling dried anchovies and hedgehog-shaped durian, maybe pausing at a café to enjoy some Ipoh white coffee and a Heong Peng pastry.

DAY 12 • Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia

If conditions allow, we’ll open the Watersports Platform so you can enjoy the turquoise waters within sight of your suite. Tonight, witness a famous Phuket sunset from Phromthep Cape then head to Bangla Road for a nightcap. The next day, breathtaking Phang Nga Bay is a must.

MALAYSIA

DAY 3 • At Sea

DAY 11 • Ipoh (Lumut), Malaysia

With a front porch view of epic Phang Nga Bay and no facilities for large cruise ships, Ko Yao Noi is perfect. Don’t miss the iconic island formations that make the bay famous, or venture inland to check out quaint rural villages.

Singapore

Days 7/8 Phuket (Patong Bay), Thailand (Overnight) Day 9

Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

Day 10

At Sea

DEPARTURE DATE December 23, 2017

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ASIA

ASIA

the Singapore Flyer Ferris Wheel. Divide your time between Chinatown and Little India during a full day in Kuala Lumpur.

Phuket, Thailand


Boracay, Philippines

THE BEST OF THE PHILIPPINES & BORNEO Singapore to Hong Kong, or reverse, 14 days

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nwind on a postcard-perfect Philippine beach far from crowds and skyscrapers. Explore the tiny sultanate of Brunei where oil wealth meets age-old traditions. Find yourself deep in Borneo’s jungle surrounded by carnivorous plants,

• Sip a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar inside Raffles Hotel and discover world-class shopping on Orchard Road

• Venture among the islands in an outrigger and swim in the idyllic crystal waters of Hundred Islands National Park

• Take a trip back in time, explore Spanish colonial architecture and stroll through the cobblestone streets of Intramuros (Old Town Manila)

• Snorkel or SCUBA dive among well preserved historical WWII Japanese wrecks off Busuanga Island

• Experience the fascinating and tiny sultanate of Brunei, visit the most beautiful mosque in Southeast Asia or wander the night market

DAY 1 • Singapore Start your vacation with the world’s most iconic cocktail (a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel) in the world’s most vibrant city. By all means, sample the amazing cuisine in the epicurean capital of Asia.

DAY 2 • At Sea Today we practice the art of indulgence. Surrounded by sparkling seas, stretched out beneath deep blue skies, the world is yours to own. Be sure to try out today’s special cocktail before and after your massage.

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DAY 6 • Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

DAY 10 • Boracay, Philippines

Our late stay in “KK” gives you time to explore the natural beauty and traditions of this fascinating place. At Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there’s a veritable Eden of habitats and species. Or visit traditional stilt villages balancing precariously over the shallows.

DAY 7 • At Sea DAY 8 • Palawan (Puerto Princesa), Philippines

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS

• Enjoy world famous beaches and swimming in the blue and emerald green waters of the Philippines

Hundred Islands, Philippines

• Visit orangutans at the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, a rescue and rehabilitation center for this endangered species • Take a boat trip down the Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Palawan

Get your camera ready. This island claims the title of “Best Island in the World” from both Travel & Leisure and Condé Nast magazines. It’s home to multiple natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites including a vibrant coral reef and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, the longest navigable underground river in the world.

Crystal clear waters and fascinating sea life make this island a favorite with divers and snorkelers. Go below to discover Japanese wrecks from World War II, or simply relax on a secluded beach.

CHINA

Welcome to the legendary island of Borneo and a city obsessed with its namesake cats. Cat-themed attractions and statues are everywhere. Or head to the rainforest to see orangutans in the wild.

Hundred Islands South China Sea

Coron

(Busuanga Island)

Manila Boracay

Palawan

Thanks to its vast oil wealth Brunei has one of the world’s highest standards of living. It also has some of the world’s most ostentatious buildings from a gold-domed mosque to the sultan’s treasure trove at the (also gold-domed) Royal Regalia museum.

Kota Kinabalu Bandar Seri Begawan

(Muara)

MALAYSIA

BRUNEI

Spend today in tropical bliss: island hopping, swimming, lounging on beaches or snorkeling. Keep an eye out for wildlife from crab-eating macaques to civets and dugongs.

DAY 15 • Hong Kong, China Our yacht docks right in the center of Hong Kong’s harbor. The tram to Victoria Peak is a must. Beyond that, it’s up to you. The floating city of Aberdeen, Stanley Market, Lantau Island, and Macau all beckon.

Singapore

Day 10

Day 2

At Sea

Day 3

Kuching, Malaysia

Days 11/12 Manila, Philippines (Overnight)

Day 4

At Sea

Day 5

Bandar Seri Begawan (Muara), Brunei

PHILIPPINES

Day 6

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Day 7

At Sea

Day 8

Palawan (Puerto Princesa), Philippines

Day 9

Coron (Busuanga Island), Philippines

MALAYSIA

Singapore

DAY 13 • Hundred Islands, Philippines

Day 1

(Puerto Princesa)

DAY 5 • Bandar Seri Begawan (Muara), Brunei

Stay overnight in one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Explore the old town, Intramuros, the center of Philippine culture for over 400 years. Or visit Corregidor Island, thick with World War II history.

I T I N E R A RY Hong Kong

DAY 4 • At Sea

DAYS 11/12 (Overnight) • Manila, Philippines

DAY 14 • At Sea

DAY 9 • Coron (Busuanga Island), Philippines

DAY 3 • Kuching, Malaysia

Perfect palm-fringed beaches bring this island fame. Indulge all your tropical island fantasies between the gentle surf and the soft sand.

Kuching

Boracay, Philippines

Day 13

Hundred Islands, Philippines

Day 14

At Sea

Day 15

Hong Kong, China

DEPARTURE DATES Jan 6; Feb 17

; Mar 3, 2018

Reverse Route =

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ASIA

ASIA

orchids, and orangutans. Captivating cities and untamed nature entice you, in turn, from your graceful yacht.

Muara, Brunei


Hoi An, Vietnam

ICONS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA Hong Kong to Bangkok, or reverse, 14 days

F

rom Hong Kong and Bangkok’s energetic embrace of east and west to Halong Bay’s soul-stirring beauty, this journey will capture your heart. UNESCO World Heritage Sites are everywhere: the ancient trading city of Hoi An,

DAYS 6/7 (Overnight) • Da Nang (Hoi An/Hue), Vietnam Take time to explore three UNESCO sites during our overnight stay. My Son Sanctuary is Vietnam’s most important Champa ruin. The imperial city of Hue is the country’s spiritual heart. And Hoi An, a tranquil 16th century trading town.

DAY 8 • Nha Trang, Vietnam Famed for its crystalline waters, this beautiful seaside city entices you with open air markets, scenic shorelines, and a look into the fascinating civilization of the Cham people, ancient rulers of Vietnam and Cambodia.

make Star Legend your very own.

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS • See Bangkok, a city of colors and a feast for the senses; a place like no other

• Visit the market in Hoi An to collect your local ingredients followed by a hands-on cooking class

• Explore the ancient imperial temples and pagodas of Hue near Da Nang

• Enjoy island fun on the powder-soft sands of Ko Kut • Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City include the Mekong Delta where farmers and fishermen have lived through countless generations

DAY 9 • At Sea Today we sail along what may be the most scenic coastline in Vietnam. You have time for a massage in the spa this afternoon. Or read up on the Cham civilization that ruled this area for 10 centuries, leaving behind some amazing architecture.

• Wander the many colorful markets to marvel at the endless variety of “not so familiar” foods

DAY 1 • Hong Kong, China Our yacht docks right in the center of Hong Kong’s harbor. The tram to Victoria Peak is a must. Beyond that, it’s up to you. The floating city of Aberdeen, Stanley Market, Lantau Island, and Macau all beckon

DAY 2 • At Sea Keep your camera and notebook at hand to capture nature at her glorious best or treat yourself to the pampering touch of a WindSpa specialist — along with your favorite drink in the bar.

DAYS 3/4 (Overnight) • Hanoi (Halong Bay), Vietnam Magical. Breathtaking. Surreal. Words cannot capture its beauty. We’ll anchor in the midst of the wonderland, and a traditional junk will pull right alongside our yacht if you’d like to step aboard for a tour of the bay.

DAY 5 • At Sea

Hong Kong THAILAND

Bangkok (Klong Toey)

Ko Kut

Hanoi

(Halong Bay)

Hoi An/Hue (Da Nang)

South China Sea Nha Trang Ho Chi Minh City/ Saigon

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Small ships like ours nestle right up to the dock near the city center of Ho Chi Minh City while larger ships continue on to Phu My and bus passengers back — a 4-hour ride round trip. Explore Vietnam War landmarks, or wind through the Mekong Delta discovering village life in the rural countryside.

DAYS 12/13 • At Sea DAY 14 • Ko Kut, Thailand Wake up in paradise. Rest your eyes on lush native forests and coconut and rubber plantations. Dive into turquoise water. Revel in a bit of Old Thailand and lose yourself to reverie at a tiered waterfall.

DAY 15 • Bangkok, Thailand Disembark from your elegant yacht near the heart of Bangkok, two hours closer to town than where larger ships dock. Take advantage of your proximity to enjoy a leisurely tour of this vibrant city — from its Buddhist monks and spirit houses to skyscrapers and skytrains — before heading to the airport.

I T I N E R A RY

CHINA

VIETNAM

DAYS 10/11 (Overnight) • Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

ASIA

ASIA

My Son Sanctuary, Hue, Halong Bay. And between them lie miles of emerald jungle, brilliant smiles, and time at sea to

• Sail the UNESCO site of Halong Bay, with its spectacular limestone outcrops and marine caves

Hong Kong, China

Bangkok, Thailand

Day 1

Hong Kong, China

Days 12/13 At Sea

Day 2

At Sea

Day 14

Ko Kut, Thailand

Days 3/4 Hanoi (Halong Bay), Vietnam (Overnight)

Day 15

Bangkok, Thailand

Day 5

DEPARTURE DATES

At Sea

Days 6/7 Da Nang (Hoi An/Hue), Vietnam (Overnight) Day 8

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Day 9

At Sea

Jan 20, 2018; Feb 3, 2018 Reverse Route =

Days 10/11 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam (Overnight)

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Taipei, Taiwan

MARVELS OF CHINA & THE JAPANESE ISLANDS Hong Kong to Beijing, 14 days

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arely does one voyage capture so much of East Asia’s mystery and magic. Overnight in Shanghai and Beijing with more time to explore the 9,999 rooms of the Forbidden City, or the Great Wall, whose sticky rice mortar bound the

a bit of Germany in Qingdao. Taste dim sum in Hong Kong and locally brewed sake in Miyakojima. Return each night to Star Legend, the exquisite thread that unites them all.

• Strewn with controversial history, the glittering capital city of Taiwan, Taipei is designed with beautiful architecture • See where they harvest the famous black pearls in the pictureperfect setting of Ishigaki Island

DAY 1 • Hong Kong, China Take a sampan to the floating city of Aberdeen. Admire the colonial architecture along Garden Road. Wander the songbird stalls on Yuen Po Street. Then meet your all-suite yacht at the harbor and settle in for two weeks of Oriental bliss.

DAY 2 • At Sea Take time to enjoy the scenery, relax on the deck, or treat yourself to a massage.

DAY 3 • Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan Just beyond the urban landscape lie national parks filled with bamboo forests and tropical jungles, simmering hot springs and waterfalls in every shape and size. The city has its own attractions, from the National Palace Museum filled with the

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DAY 6 • Okinawa (Naha), Japan

DAY 11 • At Sea

With their own culture, religion, and easy-going attitude, Okinawans show you a different side of Japan. A long history of trade has infused the culture with foreign influences. See hints of China in the 14th century Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shop for Ryukyu glass, once made from the old bottles discarded by U.S. troops.

DAY 7 • At Sea DAY 8 • Zhoushan (Zhujiajian), China

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS • See Hong Kong’s impressive view at Victoria Peak and enjoy delicious dim sum at one of the many locations throughout the city that never sleeps

Qingdao, China

• Explore Naha, Okinawa’s Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rebuilt after the devastation of WWII • Overnight in Shanghai where there will be plenty of time to spend at Nanjing Road, a shopper’s paradise • Explore Qingdao, the seaside city famous for the Tsingtao Beer and home of Taqing Palace, where Taoism was born

world’s largest collection of Chinese art treasures to Taipei 101, the world’s tallest building.

Zhujiajian combines all the trappings of a great beach vacation (sand, seafood) with jaw-dropping scenery. Known as the Venice of China, the ancient watertown is connected by 36 picturesque bridges. Nearby islands and mountains sport historic Buddhist sites and monasteries.

DAYS 9/10 (Overnight) • Shanghai, China Notice the art deco motifs in the old colonial buildings along The Bund. Cruise the Grand Canal in Suzhou under arched bridges once praised by Marco Polo. Spend the evening watching Chinese acrobats defy physics or cruising the Huangpu River. With an overnight plus a late second-day departure, you’ll have time to do Shanghai proud.

DAY 4 • Ishigaki Island, Japan Nature reigns supreme with a peacock array of palm trees, unspoiled beaches, and coral reefs. Explore the historic homes in Yaima Village or enjoy panoramic views of worldfamous Kabira Bay as you linger late into the evening.

DAY 5 • Miyakojima (Hirara), Japan With its sugar cane plantations and white-sand beaches you could be forgiven for thinking you’re in Hawaii. Walk to the end of Higashi Henna Cape where a white lighthouse stands out against the topaz sea, or sip peach-flavored sake at the famous Taragawa Awamori brewery.

Beijing

Sea of Japan

(Tianjin)

JAPAN

Qingdao

CHINA Shanghai Zhoushan

East China Sea

Miyakojima

TAIWAN

Hong Kong South China Sea

(Hirara)

Taipei

(Keelung)

Ishigaki Island

Qingdao was colonized by Germany at the turn of the 20th century, and while they were not exactly welcome the city did receive some good things from the encounter. Number One Bathing Beach for instance (built by the Germans in 1901). The secrets of beer making for another. Discover their success with the latter at the Tsingtao brewery, or satisfy your appetite for history with 2,000-year-old Taiqing Palace.

DAY 13 • At Sea DAYS 14/15 (Overnight) • Beijing, (Tianjin), China Your voyage may end in Tianjin but your suite on Star Legend is yours for another night so you can explore Beijing. Choose UNESCO wonders like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Ming Tombs, or more plebian pleasures like the Eye of Tianjin Ferris Wheel or Bird’s Nest (Olympic) Stadium and nearby Water Cube — best seen at dusk when they light up the sky.

I T I N E R A RY Day 1

Hong Kong, China

Day 11

At Sea

Day 2

At Sea

Day 12

Qingdao, China

Day 3

Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan

Day 13

At Sea

Day 4

Ishigaki Island, Japan

Day 5

Miyakojima (Hirara), Japan

Days 14/15 Beijing (Tianjin), China (Overnight)

Day 6

Okinawa (Naha), Japan

DEPARTURE DATE

Day 7

At Sea

March 17, 2018

Day 8

Zhoushan / Zhujiajian, China

(May visit ports in slightly different order.)

Okinawa (Naha)

DAY 12 • Qingdao, China

Days 9/10 Shanghai, China (Overnight) W I N D S TA R C R U I S E S . C O M

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bricks so tightly that in many places weeds still cannot grow. Discover the Venice of China in Zhujiajian’s watertown, and

Ishigaki Island, Japan


Hiroshima, Japan

Shimizu, Japan

Jeju City, South Korea

SPLENDORS OF JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA Beijing to Tokyo, (Yokohama), 14 days

T

ravel through China, South Korea, and Japan absorbing nearly 5,000 years of culture. See temples, parks, and waterways at their finest, covered with delicate pink cherry blossoms. Witness the ethereal beauty of Mount Fuji, visit

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS • From Shimizu see the artistic inspiration that is Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain

• Experience Korean, Japanese and Chinese cultures all in one cruise

• Spend time in Kyoto, one of the most established cities in Japan with temples, geishas and traditional food

• Visit the numerous UNESCO sites in Beijing including the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Ming Tombs

• Visit the Manjang Cave in Jeju City, stretching over 5 miles long

• Enjoy the cuisine of Hiroshima, with not-to-be-missed Okonomiyaki savory pancakes

DAY 1 • Beijing (Tianjin) China The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Ming Tombs — you’ll want to arrive early to explore the 3,000 years of history and abundance of UNESCO Sites waiting for you here. Meet up with Star Legend in Tianjin, the nearest port to Beijing.

DAY 2 • Dalian, China Dalian is young, modern, and very hip. It began as a Russian ice-free port barely 100 years ago and was later occupied by the Japanese, resulting in an eclectic West-meets-East collection of colonials you can browse on “Oriental Wall Street,” “Russian Flavor Street,” and “Japanese Flavor Street.”

DAY 3 • At Sea Secure your favorite spot on the deck and prepare for a magical day at sea.

DAY 4 • Seoul (Incheon), South Korea Here K-pop plays in Dongdaemun mega-malls and foodies feast on galbi barbecued ribs. Don’t miss the more serene 24

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side of Seoul. Find it in the secret garden at Changdeokgung Palace, along Cheong-gye-cheon Stream, and at Bukchon village where traditional hanok homes take the place of high rises.

DAY 11 • Kochi, Japan

Explore World War II’s legacy in the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Park, or discover the historic Dutch trading post on Dejima Island where Japan attempted to keep its finger in the dike of western influence.

DAY 9 • Fukuoka (Hakata), Japan

Natural beauty is everywhere in Kochi — on the palm treefringed Katsurahama Beach, in the lush Botanical Garden, along the Shimanto-gawa River. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the 17th century Kochi Castle, one of the oldest still standing in Japan.

DAY 12 • Osaka / Kyoto, Japan

Japan’s Samurai City twice repelled Mongol invasions led by Kublai Khan. Today, the moats at Fukuoka Castle are mostly grass though parts of the wall built by samurai remain, and the sharply angled streets of the castle town still challenge drivers as they did the attackers of old. Sample a bowl of famous Hakata ramen before turning your attention to Japan’s first Zen temple or the postcard-pretty Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

DAY 10 • Hiroshima, Japan

Kimono-clad geishas scurry through the Gion District. Zen gardens with raked sand invite contemplation. Himeji Castle (White Heron Castle) echoes with the footsteps of ancient samurais and ninjas. Old Japan lives on in Kyoto, the historic capitol, just waiting for your discovery.

DAY 13 • At Sea DAY 14 • Shimizu, Japan

Fold a paper crane to leave at the Atomic Dome, and visit Hiroshima Castle to see three trees that survived the bombing that destroyed the castle itself. Or head to Miyajima, one of the most scenic spots in Japan, for a look at the vermillion Itsukushima Shrine floating in the sea.

Frame the perfect portrait of Mount Fuji from a hundred perfect angles, or just savor its symmetry sans lens. Either way, consider your day here well spent.

DAY 15 • Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan There are as many Tokyos to discover as there are interests. Cuisine? Culture? Shopping? All await you here.

DAY 5 • At Sea DAY 6 • Jeju (Cheju) City, South Korea Korea’s tropical island is a natural wonderland, with beaches, waterfalls, and a dormant volcano. If Manjang cave, one of the island’s 12 UNESCO Geoparks, isn’t your cup of tea, you can always watch the surfers off Jungmun beach or hike some of the 26 “Olle” trails that ring the coast.

DAY 7 • Busan, South Korea Hot springs, 1,500-year-old Tongdosa Temple, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju — are just a few highlights. For something different, visit Gamcheon Culture Village where terraced homes pour over the slopes like a rainbow-hued waterfall.

I T I N E R A RY Dalian

Sea of Japan

Tokyo

Beijing

(Tianjin)

(Yokohama)

Seoul

Shimizu

(Incheon)

CHINA

Yellow Sea

SOUTH KOREA

Jeju City

Busan

(Osaka)

Kochi Hiroshima

(Cheju)

Nagasaki

East China Sea

Kyoto

Fukuoka (Hakata)

JAPAN

Day 1

Beijing (Tianjin), China

Day 10

Hiroshima, Japan

Day 2

Dalian, China

Day 11

Kochi, Japan

Day 3

At Sea

Day 12

Osaka / Kyoto, Japan

Day 4

Seoul (Incheon), South Korea

Day 13

At Sea

Day 14

Shimizu, Japan

Day 15

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Day 5

At Sea

Day 6

Jeju (Cheju) City, South Korea

Day 7

Busan, South Korea

Day 8

Nagasaki, Japan

Day 9

Fukuoka (Hakata), Japan

DEPARTURE DATE March 31, 2018

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cities brimming with cultural touchstones, and find yourself within reach of at least 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

DAY 8 • Nagasaki, Japan


Tokyo, Japan

Busan, South Korea

Osaka, Japan

GR AND JAPAN

DAY 6 • Nagasaki, Japan

Tokyo (Yokohama) to Osaka, or reverse, 10 days

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ayer after layer, Japan’s story unfolds. In Edo-period gardens with their perfectly sculpted karikomi. In Chiran’s exquisitely preserved samurai homes. In the peace memorials of Nagasaki and Hiroshima. And time after time you

Hiroshima’s Atomic Dome.

VOYAG E HI G HL I G H TS • From Shimizu see the artistic inspiration that is Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain • See the incredible 16th century Osaka Castle, the city’s main historic landmark • Enjoy the cuisine of Hiroshima, with not-to-be-missed Okonomiyaki savory pancakes

DAY 1 • Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan There are as many Tokyos to discover as there are interests. Cuisine? It has more Michelin stars than any other city. Culture? Kabuki theater and sumo wrestling are just the beginning. Shopping? The posh boutiques of Ginza lie on one end of the spectrum, workshops that hand-craft samurai swords at the other.

DAY 2 • Shimizu, Japan Frame the perfect portrait of Mount Fuji from a hundred perfect angles, or just savor its symmetry sans lens. Either way, consider your day here well spent.

DAY 3 • Shingu, Japan Pilgrims have been climbing the Kii Mountain Range for a thousand years, but few visitors to Japan even know about

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• Visit the UNESCO site of Shingu, Kamikura-jinja Shrine, part of the Sacred Sites of Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range • Take in the scenery as you cruise around the abandoned island of Hashima

the trio of sacred shrines that compose this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most striking, Kumanonachi Taisha, includes a fiery orange pagoda posing next to Nachi Falls, the tallest waterfall in Japan. Don’t fail to turn around and look back down the often mist-shrouded valley.

DAY 7 • Busan, South Korea Hot springs, 1,500-year-old Tongdosa Temple, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju — once the capital of the Shila Kingdom — are just a few highlights of South Korea’s second-largest city. For something different, visit Gamcheon Culture Village where terraced homes pour over the slopes like a rainbow-hued waterfall.

DAY 8 • Fukuoka (Hakata), Japan Japan’s Samurai City twice repelled Mongol invasions led by Kublai Khan. Today, the moats at Fukuoka Castle are mostly grass though parts of the wall built by samurai remain, and the sharply angled streets of the castle town still challenge drivers as they did the attackers of old. Sample a bowl of famous Hakata ramen before turning your attention to Japan’s first Zen temple or the postcard-pretty Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Sea of Japan

DAY 4 • At Sea This is your time to sleep late and enjoy a luxurious spa treatment.

Osaka Hiroshima

SOUTH KOREA

Shingu

Fukuoka Nagasaki

Shimizu

JAPAN

Busan

DAY 5 • Kagoshima, Japan This castle town with its signature Sakurajima volcano dates to the 14th century. Time-travel back to the days of the samurai in Chiran’s picturesque samurai district, its views unsullied by telephone poles or parked cars. Go “sand bathing” in the naturally heated sands of Ibusuki.

Tokyo

(Yokohama)

(Hakata)

Kochi

Fold a paper crane to leave at the Atomic Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit Hiroshima Castle to see three trees that survived the bombing that destroyed the castle itself. Or head to Miyajima, one of the most scenic spots in Japan, for a look at the vermillion Itsukushima Shrine floating in the sea — yet another World Heritage Site.

DAY 10 • Kochi, Japan Natural beauty is everywhere in Kochi — on the palm treefringed Katsurahama Beach, in the lush Botanical Garden, along the pristine Shimanto-gawa River. Even offshore where whales and porpoises play. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the 17th century Kochi Castle, one of the oldest still standing in Japan, or try some bonito sashimi along the promenade.

DAY 11 • Osaka, Japan Kimono-clad geishas scurry through the Gion District. Zen gardens with raked sand invite contemplation. Himeji Castle (White Heron Castle) echoes with the footsteps of ancient samurais and ninjas. Old Japan lives on in Kyoto, the historic capitol, just waiting for your discovery.

I T I N E R A RY Day 1

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Day 2

Shimizu, Japan

Day 3

Shingu, Japan

Day 4

At Sea

Day 5

Kagoshima, Japan

Day 6

Nagasaki, Japan

Day 7

Busan, South Korea

Day 8

Fukuoka (Hakata), Japan

Day 9

Hiroshima, Japan

Day 10

Kochi, Japan

Day 11

Osaka, Japan

DEPARTURE DATE April 14, 2018; April 24, 2018 (This itinerary may stop at Sasebo instead of Nagasaki.) Reverse Route =

Kagoshima

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struggle to describe unforgettable moments, from your first view of Mount Fuji to the fluttering paper cranes of peace at

DAY 9 • Hiroshima, Japan

Explore World War II’s legacy in the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Park, or discover the historic Dutch trading post on Dejima island where Japan attempted to keep its finger in the dike of western influence.


ASIA & AR ABIA Voyages to the Exotic Wonders of Arabia – Athens to Dubai Pearls of the Indian Ocean – Dubai to Singapore Singapore & Thai Treasures – Singapore to Singapore The Best of the Philippines & Borneo – Singapore to Hong Kong, or reverse Icons of Southeast Asia – Hong Kong to Bangkok, or reverse

Grand Japan – Tokyo to Osaka, or reverse

Y O U R YA C H T I S W A I T I N G . . . For reservations, call a Windstar Vacation Planner at 800-258-7245, or your travel professional.

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Splendors of Japan & South Korea – Beijing to Tokyo

Information contained herein is accurate at the time of publication and subject to change without notice.

Marvels of China & the Japanese Islands – Hong Kong to Beijing


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