Windjammer

Travelers interested in a cruise vacation that is down-to-earth and ultra casual would do well to consider a Windjammer cruise rather than a modern megaship. This unique line offers an extraordinary experience for passengers who truly want a unique getaway.

Windjammer sailing ships offer larger-than-life experiences for adventurous travelers.

Based in Miami, this eclectic line’s fleet consists of only five ships, yet it is still the largest sailing ship fleet in the world dedicated to passenger service. Founded in 1947, the line’s ships are powered by both engines and sails (to balance a true sailing experience with modern convenience), and the rebuilt nature of the vessels guarantees an authentic glimpse of the sailing lifestyle.

Sailing ships are naturally small, and these vessels are equipped to accommodate only 65-125 passengers. Cabin sizes vary though all are sparse and small, giving passengers more reason to mingle on deck rather than relax in their staterooms.

Depending on the specific itinerary, a Windjammer cruise may depart from a number of ports. The only regular United States departure port is Miami, though the ships rotate among popular Caribbean embarkation ports such as Costa Rica, Tortola, and Grenada. For updated departure information, passengers should consult an experienced cruise travel agent.

Because of the ships’ rebuilt history and the line’s overall casual nature, décor is far more functional than on mainstream or luxury vessels. While some ships boast mahogany or rosewood accents and paneling, such remnants of authenticity are more likely a result of sporadic renovations and upgrades than deliberate design. Rather than focus on the ships’ appearance, passengers are more apt to be mesmerized by the stunning ports of call these small ships can visit.

Windjammer offers exclusively Caribbean itineraries, focusing on many out of the way ports of call that are not frequented by larger cruise lines and bulky ships. Voyages are from 5-13 nights, and both eastern and southern Caribbean routes are popular. Frequent ports of call include the Bahamas, Antigua, the Virgin Islands, Aruba, and Curacao. Several themed voyages are also offered annually, with the pirates and singles themes being the most popular choices.

Because of the ships’ small size, very few organized activities are offered, though passengers are occasionally invited to sailing and navigation lectures. It isn’t uncommon for passengers to assist the crew by hauling sails if they are so inclined, but otherwise there are few scheduled events.

In keeping with the line’s ultra casual approach to cruising, meals are offered family-style, with breakfast and lunch frequently served as buffets. Free drinks abound, including bloody marys at breakfast, signature rum swizzles in the evening, and complimentary wine at dinner. Cocktails and other drinks, however, do have surcharges, though they are generally less expensive than other cruise lines.

Most passengers are content to entertain themselves with various watersports and shore excursions while in ports of call, though the traditional Captain’s Story Time each morning is a humorous report on the state of the voyage and upcoming plans. Local bands may be onboard for a day or two during each sailing to provide musical accompaniment to the casual atmosphere, and a weekly costume party is a much-anticipated event, though nowhere near the rigorous formal night standards associated with other lines.

There are no spa, fitness, or gambling facilities on any Windjammer ship; though since the vessels spend the majority of their time in port, passengers can easily find ways to pamper themselves, exercise, or play games of chance on shore.

While there are few organized activities, one treat many passengers eagerly anticipate is a round of silly beach games when the ship visits outlaying islands. These team games – relay races and similar competitions -- foster camaraderie and friendship among both passengers and crew.

No passengers under the age of 6 are permitted on these cruises, and there are few organized children’s programs. Several ships do offer programs during the summer months, with activities such as arts and crafts and sailing-oriented educational classes available for younger cruisers.

The extremely informal nature of this cruise line is its biggest highlight. Many passengers may never wear more than a swimsuit or shorts during the voyage, and that promotes the ultimate in relaxation without any fear of attire standards. Passengers dive overboard (with permission) to swim while in port, sleep on deck under the stars, or otherwise experience a truly carefree sailing cruise.

Because of the ships’ limited size, the tiny cabins are one of the line’s biggest detriments. No handicap-accessible cabins are available on any of their ships, and some cabins feature shared bathroom facilities (though they may offer larger space or other amenities to compensate). Routes may also be erratic since the ships rely on sometimes uncertain weather to plan their itineraries, and also because of the weather, passengers susceptible to seasickness may have some unpleasant moments on these small vessels.

For a truly unconventional cruise vacation in a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere, many passengers choose Windjammer Barefoot Cruises. And barefoot they will be, enjoying the very best in alternative cruising.

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