The cruise began in the routine Windstar fashion with efficient and friendly service. The first person we encountered, who was handing us refreshments, was Gino ... a friend from several past Windstar voyages. A few minutes later we were greeted by Bobby, another old friend. There were at least half a dozen crew who recognized us from past trips and welcomed us to the Star Legend. We were checked in and in our room in less than fifteen minutes.

First, let me admit that we love Windstar, and the flagship Wind Surf is our favorite. That being said, I will attempt an honest review, and I will attempt to address a few of the issues mentioned by a few people who have written rather critical reviews, who I henceforth will refer to as the complainers.

First, some have said that the ship is old and covered with rust. I'm reminded of Captain 'Lucky' Jack Aubry in "Master and Commander" when Maturin referred to the "Surprise" as being an old ship, and Jack responded that she was not old but "in her prime". I am a retired Naval Commander, and a retired airline Captain ... so I am the 'Captain and Commander'. All Naval vessels will show a bit of rust even brand new ones. That is why chipping and painting is a continuous process ... as is sanding and varnishing. The Star Legend from all outward appearances could pass for a new ship. She is beautiful. She is 'in her prime'. The suites (all the rooms are suites) are beautiful, the carpeting throughout the ship is perfect, the marble baths with tubs are marvelous, the public areas are amazing and they are constantly cleaned and polished. The smallest of the suites on Star Legend is nearly twice the size of the standard rooms on the Surf. Read more