Beginning in spring 2026, Windstar Cruises is rolling out Quick Getaways – a new collection of 3- to 5-night European yacht voyages designed for travelers who want a meaningful escape without committing to a long itinerary. These short-but-memorable cruises blend headline cities with postcard-worthy hidden ports, all wrapped in Windstar’s signature relaxed and friendly yacht-style atmosphere.
With five all-new itineraries and nine scheduled departures, these mini voyages are crafted to feel much bigger than their duration suggests. They’re ideal for travelers looking to maximize their time off, whether by adding a few days of cruising onto a business trip, pairing them with a longer land-based vacation, or simply sneaking in a long weekend abroad. Guests can expect experiences most large cruise ships can’t offer – like the rare thrill of sailing beneath London’s Tower Bridge or enjoying a quiet afternoon wine tasting in the coastal town of Collioure.
An overnight flight from the East Coast brings you straight to your European embarkation point, allowing you to board the ship the same day you land. Once aboard, the compact itineraries strike a balance between marquee cities and hidden gems, offering a perfect introduction to Windstar’s laid-back, yacht-like style of cruising. And for those looking to see even more of Europe, Quick Getaways can easily be paired with a longer voyage, creating a custom journey that suits your schedule and sense of adventure.
“These new sailings are designed for spontaneity and simplicity,” said Windstar Cruises director of itinerary planning Jess Peterson. “They’re the perfect way to experience the Windstar style of travel, especially if you’re already traveling for work or play in Europe. With overnight flights from the East Coast, you can be sailing beneath the Tower Bridge or sipping wine in Southern France with minimal jet lag and no time wasted.”
Quick Getaway itineraries
- A Taste of Southern France (3 nights) – Kayak near Sète, wander Collioure, and ride to the storybook citadel of Carcassonne.
- La Dolce Vita in Italy & France (3 nights) – Sail past seaside villages, roam Corsican markets, and raise a glass in Tuscany.
- Belgium: A Sweet Getaway (3 nights) – Discover Bruges’ canals, snack on Belgian chocolates, and admire fairytale architecture.
- St. Malo Getaway (4 nights) – Sail through London’s Tower Bridge, then dive into the windswept beauty of France’s northern coast, Mont St. Michel, and beyond.
Contact us for additional information on Windstar Cruises.