We've previously cruised only on larger ships (Princess, RC and Celebrity) and we were really interested in trying out the small ship experience. Since the destination (Tahiti) was the highest priority to us, we placed a much lower priority on evening entertainment, the pool "scene" and the casino. We went into this cruise expecting that we might find the evening a bit too low-key for us and while evenings were relatively quiet, everything else that we experienced with Windstar MORE THAN made up for that. And besides, we were so beat from full days of activities that it was really nice (and relaxing) to listen to the live bands in the evening, after dinner, and then call it a night by 10:30.

Our room - We were on the 6th floor in an oceanview suite and were initially concerned that we might miss having a balcony. However, since the ship is smaller, it was no effort to quickly/easily get to the outdoors so we really did not miss it at all. We were delighted with the bathroom (a full sized shower and a double-sink vanity) and we were also quite pleased to find a walk-in closet. The room had been recently refurbished and it really was tastefully done, very comfortable, and quite roomy. We'd give our room a 10/10.

Food - the best that we've had. In addition to the buffet items for breakfast & lunch, items can also be ordered off of a menu and room service is available all day. We thought the variety at dinner was quite good and we really appreciated the fact that we could show up for dinner at any time within a 2 hour time window. How wonderful to have that flexibility and how relaxing to NEVER have to worry about waiting in line! Amphora (main dining room) was lovely, food was very good, and service was superb. Candles (specialty dining at no extra charge) was wonderful from all aspects. Two beach bbqs (one in the day, one in the evening) were great as well. Read more