Citing unprecedented demand, Windstar Cruises is opening up bookings for its 2027 spring sailings in Japan.
According to a press release, the company has experienced exceptional demand for its 2026 sailings in Japan aboard its newest ship, the Star Seeker, which joins its fleet in December 2025.
In response, Windstar not only opened bookings for the new season earlier than planned but also added an extra fall date.
Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, Windstar’s ten-night Grand Japan itinerary packs in a variety of the country’s highlights, plus a stop in Busan, South Korea, the company said.
“Just months after announcing our 2026 plans in Japan, we’re nearly sold out,” said Windstar Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava.
“The combination of our return to Asia for the first time since 2023, along with the anticipation of a new ship and the fact that Japan is now one of the world’s most visited countries, has created an excitement for this region that we have not seen before,” she added.
The Star Seeker will cross the Pacific from Alaska to Japan in early September 2026, kicking off a series of Grand Japan itineraries on five dates through October. The spring 2027 sailings will take place on seven dates from March through May.
Windstar’s Grand Japan cruise is highlighted by scenic cruising at the Inland Sea and the abandoned island of Hashima.
The cruise also includes visits to the Peace Memorial Parks of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, as well as stops in smaller ports like Takamatsu and Karatsu.
Passengers can extend their stay with the Kyoto & the Zen of Japan Cruise Tour, which features inland tours to Kyoto.
Along with the announcement, Windstar is offering an Early Booking Offer, including a Complimentary Upgrade to All-Inclusive Fares, which include Wi-Fi, gratuities and unlimited select beer, wine and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom. The offer expires February 28, 2025.
In addition, only a 15 percent deposit is required to book, with final payment required just 120 days before sailing.