6 epic experiences around the world you can only have by the sea

Discover what sailing the world can really look like with these incredible bucket list experiences.

Whether you’re new to cruise or a long-time enthusiast, there are some bucket list experiences around the world that can only be reached by water. From sailing into one of Japan’s most beautiful port cities to exploring the ancient wonders of the Corinth Canal, there are plenty of reasons to take to the sea. And Windstar Cruises have the itineraries to get you there.

It’s not just small ship luxury, impeccable service and a culinary program to delight your taste buds that make Windstar Cruises stand out from the crowd. The myriad of iconic and lesser-known destinations, port-intensive itineraries and culturally immersive shore experiences really make the difference. Plus there are new ships and sailings on the horizon.

Here are a few cruise experiences that need to be on your bucket list.

Have unforgettable adventures, on and off the ship.

1. Visit remote Tahitian islands

With French Polynesia comprising 118 islands, cruising is the best way to uncover the delights of this place of fabled beauty and romance.

Each Windstar Cruises Tahitian itinerary visits at least six and up to 11 islands. While iconic destinations like Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti feature highly, longer itineraries visit more remote locations in the Tuamotu Islands.

Less frequently visited islands include the protected coral atoll at Fakarava, a natural sanctuary for rare species of birds, plants and crustaceans. And secluded Rangiroa, an immense natural aquarium on many a diver’s wish list.

Unlike most cruise lines, Windstar also visits the remote, mystical Marquesas Islands, home to archaeological treasures, incredible dive sites and stunning, volcanic landscapes.

Navigating the Marquesas Islands with Windstar Cruises.

2. Bora Bora Celebration Event

An evening spent in Bora Bora on a motu (a small, secluded islet) is a highlight of Windstar Cruises in the South Pacific. On a private island, Windstar offers guests an exclusive evening and an intimate dive into rich Polynesian culture.

As the sun dips into the ocean, settle in for cooling drinks served in coconut shells and a feast of authentic Polynesian fare with a dazzling barbeque overflowing with fresh seafood and a tantalising array of tropical fruits.

Post dinner, the evening ignites with a spellbinding performance of traditional dance; women with lei-adorned heads, gyrating hips and swishing grass skirts plus a powerful display of fire dancing with bare-chested men stomping the sand and twirling fire sticks.

Celebrate on a private island in Bora Bora. (Image: Getty/ Nevereverro)

3. Destination Discovery Event in Ephesus

Inhabited for at least 2700 years, the site of the ancient city of Ephesus, now part of Turkey, has been described by UNESCO as “one of the largest and most powerful sanctuaries of the ancient world”.These glorious remains of a dazzling city make it one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities on the planet.

An ‘Evening in Ephesus’ with Windstar Cruises’ eight-night Aegean Sea Odyssey itinerary is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience some of that glory.

Held in front of the illuminated facade of the magnificent two-storey carved stone library or along the collonaded main city drag of Harbour Street constructed in the first century BC, this is a night to remember. Guests are treated to a five-course, white-glove-service dinner under the stars and accompanied by a trio from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra.

Visit the Library of Celus. (Image: Getty/ GreenP)

4. Sail to the city of Shimizu

Thanks to its vistas of majestic Mt Fuji, a UNESCO cultural World Heritage site, Shimizu is considered one of the most beautiful ports in Japan. Sailing in is a treat with the revered mountain seeming to emerge ethereally from the water as you approach, a fitting welcome to the city on Windstar Cruises’ 10-night Grand Japan itinerary.

Shimizu is alive with history. Wander stone ruins and reconstructions of the 1585-built Sunpu Castle Park, surrounded by landscaped gardens. Take time for tea at a traditional teahouse. Nearby Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, a complex of seven shrines from the early 1600s, is set in mountain foothills and blossom tree-filled grounds. More history lives at the mountain-top Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the first shogun of the Edo period, reachable by zigzagging stone stairs or ropeway.

Sail into Shimizu. (Image: Getty/ Ikunl)

5. Transit through the Corinth Canal

When it comes to sailing, size really does matter. Besides a more intimate and personal service with Windstar Cruises’ staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1.5 is evidence of that), the smaller style of Windstar ships makes it possible to access smaller ports and exclusive destinations that bigger ships can’t get to.

That includes passing through the narrow but time-saving passage of the Corinth Canal that separates the Peloponnese Peninsula from mainland Greece, with just feet to spare on each side.

On an Aegean Sea Odyssey, the canal takes you to Itea and the sacred ruins of the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo, the ancient world’s most respected oracle, where people would seek advice from the gods.

Wind through the stunning Corinth Canal. (Image: Getty/ F4-Bilder.de)

6. Travel beyond ‘The Golden Triangle’ of Japan

No trip to Japan is truly complete without visiting the golden trio of cities of Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka, but there’s a lot more besides. Join Windstar’s newest yacht, Star Seeker, on her inaugural season starting from December 2025, voyaging to hidden gems and extraordinary ports a little more off the beaten track.

Visit Kagoshima palace town with its signature active volcano and meticulously preserved samurai district, and respectfully remember the importance of “Never Again” at the Peace Memorial Park of Nagasaki. At Takamatsu, the largest pine bonsai production area in Japan, learn how to make udon noodles or discover the magic of the Ritsurin Gardens, designed as a promenade garden and villa for lords and plush with paths, koi-filled ponds, landscaped hills and pine forests.

See the samurai history at Kagoshima. (Image: Getty/ Ranmaru)

Find out more at https://deals.windstar.com.au/windstar/ or contact the Windstar Australia team by calling 1300 749 875 or emailing reservations@windstar.com.au.