Jessica: Hi Noel, Congratulations! Windstar Cruises is nominated for MailPound Agents' Choice (MAC) awards.
Noel:  We are honored. The Nomination Committee is a very distinguished group of travel professionals. To be considered by them is a great compliment to Windstar Cruises. On behalf of Diane Moore our President and all of the incredible team at Windstar Cruises, we are very grateful for the recognition.

Jessica:  Tell me a little bit about the Windstar "180º From Ordinary" luxury cruise experience.
Noel:  Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense. The  ships are also known for their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most treasured destinations.  Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious ships of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. 

Jessica:  You were nominated for "Best Small Cruise Ship Fleet."  Share with us what makes Wind Spirit, Wind Star and Wind Surf so unique.
Noel:  I believe it is several things. We have been a leader in defining the small ship luxury cruise experience for the last 20 years. And yet Windstar has won the allegiance of a new generation of contemporary travelers who appreciate the line’s casual attire, alternative dining venues, rich mix of shore excursions, complimentary water sports program, deluxe spa facilities and luxurious accommodations.

And our ships are unique; teak-lined decks, towering sails. A vacation on Windstar is the ultimate affair for those who love the sea. On board, you'll discover a unique combination of romance with state-of-the-art luxury and convenience. Yet we feel Windstar is small enough to indulge the every whim of 148-312 guests.

On a Windstar ship you're free to do as you please, on your own schedule. There's no dress code. Five-star dining is informal and casually elegant (leave the ties and formal gowns at home). We offer cuisine that will delight your senses and complemented by a wide selection of fine wines. Our spontaneous and gracious service offers one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios. Cabin amenities include BOSE(r) SoundDock(TM) systems, sleek flat-screen LCD TVs and plush new Sealy Euro Pillow Top beds 

I am proud to report that Windstar recently completed product enhancements which include new dining and spa offerings. Guests will be able to dine on five-star cuisine enjoying exquisite sunsets and the magic of the sea in new outdoor venues—Candles on all three ships and Le Marché on Wind Surf.  For those looking for the ultimate in relaxation, (and who isn’t?)  Windstar has partnered with The OnboardSpa Company for decadent, certified organic O SPA London spa and salon services in WindSpa. Some of the services guests can indulge in include facials, manicures, pedicures, massages, aromatherapy, body treatments, acupuncture, precision hair cuts and styling.

Windstar is truly an adventure in sailing, with a style all its own.

Jessica: One of the advantages of small ship sailing is the incredible ports of call.  Tell us a little about your favorite ports of call.
Noel:  Because they're smaller than most, our ships can stop at the more exclusive ports and beaches, accessible only by yacht. Windstar's sleek sailing cruise ships offer an extraordinary way to explore the Caribbean, Costa Rica, the Panama Canal, Greek Isles and the Mediterranean.

I would have to say that one of my favorite ports of call is Rhodes. We visit this on our popular Greek Isle Cruises.  I particularly love this port at is because our ships have the ability to enter into a harbor that once had the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven ancient wonders straddling the entrance. Our ships tie right next to the ancient wall allowing access for guests to the cobblestone streets, medieval cathedrals and charming cafes.

I also love our Costa Rica sailings. I really don’t have any particular port in this part of the world. I simply love the fact that ships have the ability to get so close to the islands and coves that make Costa Rica an incredible ecological adventure.  

Jessica:  Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with our travel agents?
Noel:  Right now if a travel professional books their guests on a 2010 Cruise before September 30, 2009 we are offering a $250 per person shipboard credit.

Windstar is also offering a gratuity package to guests who pay their 2010 or 2011 sailings in full 6 months or more in advance.  The gratuity package covers the daily $12 per guest hotel service charge with a value of $84 per guest on a 7-day cruise and $168 per guest on a 14-day cruise.  Final payment is normally due 90 days prior to cruise departure date, so this gives guests a great value for just paying 3 months earlier than when final payment is due.

For more information including brochures, rates and itineraries call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245.  Visit Windstar Cruises online at windstarcruises.com.