Star Collector: Wonders Of Southern Japan & Southeast Asia

Osaka is the gateway to Kyoto with great street food, bright lights and delightful night life. Its main historic landmark is the 16th century Osaka Castle surrounded by a moat and many flowering trees. Kyoto is famous for its numerous Buddhist temples, gardens, imperial Shinto shrines and traditional wooden houses. It is also known for formal traditions like kaiseki dining (multiple courses of precise dishes) and geisha entertainers.

At Sea

The tropical small port of Amami Island is well-known in Japan for the top-quality silk and dyes produce the highest-end kimonos. The white-sand beaches and warm, crystal-clear waters of Amami are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Amami is also known for Keihan, its unique chicken rice dish.

Renowned for its scenic beauty, rich history and unique Chinese, Japanese and Korean culture, Okinawa is famous for its ceramic wares. Tsuboya Potter Museum is the place to visit to learn about this beautiful artform. You’ll also want to see Shuri Castle & Shureimon Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kokusai Street, the main shopping area.

Famous for its white-sand beaches and clear waters, Miyakojima is considered by many to have the most beautiful beaches in Japan. Visit the town of Hirara where you will see the 16th century tomb of samurai hero Nakasone Tuyumya. Other highlights include Taragawa Awamori Sake Brewery, Utopia Farm and the amazing view of Higashi Henna Cape.

The modern metropolis and capital city of Taiwan is an interesting mix of Japanese, Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures. The skyline is dominated by the 1,671-foot, 101-storied, bamboo-shaped skyscraper, Taipei 101. Other highlights of Taipei include the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, Martyrs’ Shrine which is an excellent example of classical Ming Dynasty architecture, and the Confucius Temple.

At Sea

Our ship docks right in the heart of Hong Kong’s harbor, putting you at the center of all manner of attractions. Watch sampans and junks glide through the waters of Aberdeen. Soak in the towering skyscrapers, peaceful green hillsides and world-famous Harbour from the top of Victoria Peak. Pursue bargains at Stanley Market. Have your fortune told at the Temple Street Night Market. Visit Lantau Island where a giant bronze Buddha holds court.

Our ship docks right in the heart of Hong Kong’s harbor, putting you at the center of all manner of attractions. Watch sampans and junks glide through the waters of Aberdeen. Soak in the towering skyscrapers, peaceful green hillsides and world-famous Harbour from the top of Victoria Peak. Pursue bargains at Stanley Market. Have your fortune told at the Temple Street Night Market. Visit Lantau Island where a giant bronze Buddha holds court.

At Sea

Halong Bay is our gateway to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam about 3.5 hours away but well worth the visit. Hanoi boasts a fascinating blend of East and West with lots of Chinese influences and French design. Highlights include the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, Thirty-Six Streets District in Old Town Hanoi, and Hoa Lo Prison, known widely as the “Hanoi Hilton.” Explore the mystical landscape of Halong Bay by charming traditional fishing junk.

Halong Bay is our gateway to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam about 3.5 hours away but well worth the visit. Hanoi boasts a fascinating blend of East and West with lots of Chinese influences and French design. Highlights include the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, Thirty-Six Streets District in Old Town Hanoi, and Hoa Lo Prison, known widely as the “Hanoi Hilton.” Explore the mystical landscape of Halong Bay by charming traditional fishing junk.

Cruising through Halong Bay offers a mesmerizing experience, as you glide past its emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and lush islands, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. For a closer view of the limestone formations and to visit some of the islands, take a shore excursion on a junk boat during your stay in Halong Bay.

At Sea

We’ll stay here overnight to explore three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. My Son Sanctuary is Vietnam’s most important Champa ruin dating back to the 4th century. The imperial city of Hue is the spiritual heart of Vietnam and home to Nguyen Dynasty emperors. Admire the beauty of Hue’s bridges, canals, and lakes. And Hoi An is a tranquil 16th century trading town that has changed little over the centuries. Walk over the 400-year-old covered bridge, pausing to ponder the dog and monkey statues guarding either end.

At Sea

Cruising the Saigon River offers a unique perspective of Ho Chi Minh City, as you sail past bustling waterfronts, scenic landscapes, and vibrant local life, blending urban energy with natural beauty.

Spend the day exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels where the Viet Cong based their insurgency. Delve into Vietnamese traditions in the villages of the Mekong Delta. Or stay close to your elegant ship enjoying the city’s French colonial flare, maybe bartering for conical hats and form-fitting ao dai (traditional Vietnamese tunic) at the market.

Spend the day exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels where the Viet Cong based their insurgency. Delve into Vietnamese traditions in the villages of the Mekong Delta. Or stay close to your elegant ship enjoying the city’s French colonial flare, maybe bartering for conical hats and form-fitting ao dai (traditional Vietnamese tunic) at the market.

At Sea

Sihanoukville serves as a gateway to Phnom Penh, offering a convenient starting point to explore Cambodia's vibrant capital, rich in history, culture, and iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the poignant Killing Fields. Sihanoukville is also a launching point to Kampot, known for its pepper plantations.

Ko Kood, Thailand's tranquil paradise island, is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect location for Windstar’s Signature Beach Barbeque.

Cruising the Chao Phraya River offers a scenic journey through Bangkok, providing stunning views of historic temples, grand palaces, and vibrant local life along the riverbanks.

Known for its beautiful ornate shrines and temples and vibrant street life, Bangkok is one of the top cities in the world to visit. Your ship is docked as close to Bangkok as any ship can get. Highlights include the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and the Floating Market. Extend your stay to include the overland Angkor Wat/Cambodia tour.

At Sea

Ko Samui, Thailand’s idyllic island, is renowned for its lush tropical landscapes and vibrant natural beauty. In addition to its serene coastline, the island is home to the Ang Thong National Marine Park, a protected area known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and diverse wildlife, offering an ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.

At Sea

Say hello to Stamford Raffles’ engaging city, a modern metropolis which is blended with the traditional historic towns of the founders. These include Chinatown, Little India and the Malay community of Kampong Glam. The Singapore River meanders through the center of the island with vistas of skyscrapers and historic shop houses, often side-by-side. Singapore is a tropical garden city with flowers and greenery everywhere. Among the attractions are the domes at Gardens by the Bay located near Marina Bay and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Botanic Gardens. Orchard Road is the epicenter for shopping some of Asia’s leading retailers and includes both international brands and local shops.

Say hello to Stamford Raffles’ engaging city, a modern metropolis which is blended with the traditional historic towns of the founders. These include Chinatown, Little India and the Malay community of Kampong Glam. The Singapore River meanders through the center of the island with vistas of skyscrapers and historic shop houses, often side-by-side. Singapore is a tropical garden city with flowers and greenery everywhere. Among the attractions are the domes at Gardens by the Bay located near Marina Bay and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Botanic Gardens. Orchard Road is the epicenter for shopping some of Asia’s leading retailers and includes both international brands and local shops.

This is a city of many faces, from the aboriginal village on Carey Island to the sweeping 360° views from one of the world’s highest towers. It’s hard to know where to begin. Some sights are hard to miss – the soaring KL Tower and Petronas Twin Towers, for instance. Others are less apparent but every bit as fascinating. The British colonial buildings of Merdeka Square and the Royal Selangor Club. Like a crazy quilt, somehow it all blends together in a harmonious whole that is a thrill to explore.

Penang, Malaysia, is a vibrant destination known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and historic sites. The island's capital, George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts colonial architecture, lively street art, and bustling markets. Indulge in Penang's culinary delights, where a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences create a mouthwatering array of street food, from fragrant laksa to crispy satay, making it a true food lover's paradise.

"Island paradise" perfectly captures Ko Yao Noi. Offering breathtaking views of Phang Nga Bay, this peaceful island is a small ship exclusive, making it an ideal escape. Capture stunning photos of the iconic limestone formations that define the bay and explore the charming rural villages inland for a taste of local life.

Krabi, Thailand, is a stunning coastal destination known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear waters, and beautiful beaches. With picturesque islands like Phi Phi and Railay, Krabi offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, vibrant local culture, bustling markets, and serene temples.

Windstar's signature beach BBQ is held on the pristine private island of Koh Nakha Noi, Thailand, offering an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.

Known as the pearl of Thailand, Phuket is famous for pristine beaches, lush vegetation and natural beauty and is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations. Discover the busy markets and ancient shophouses, the fabulous food and some of the finest resorts and spas in Thailand.