Home » Cruise News of Europe » France, Italy, Belgium, United Kingdom: Explore Hidden Gems and Famous Landmarks on Windstar Cruises’ New Quick Getaways Across Europe

Monday, August 4, 2025

In the evolving world of luxury cruising, Windstar Cruises is redefining travel by offering shorter yet equally immersive journeys through Europe with their newly launched “Quick Getaways.” This innovative collection, designed for travelers with limited time, caters to those looking for a blend of iconic destinations and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Whether you’re looking to extend your work trip, take a spontaneous vacation, or simply sample Windstar’s relaxed yacht-style cruising, these 3- to 5-night voyages promise an unforgettable experience.

Launching in spring 2026, the Quick Getaways collection features five thoughtfully curated itineraries across Europe, perfect for both seasoned travelers and newcomers alike. What makes these cruises so appealing is their ability to pack all the charm of a full-length European cruise into a shorter, more convenient schedule. Guests can experience the thrill of sailing under London’s Tower Bridge, indulge in fine wines in Southern France, or discover the canals of Bruges, all while enjoying the signature luxury and intimate ambiance Windstar is known for.

Why Windstar’s Quick Getaways Are the Perfect Choice for Busy TravelersCompact Yet Immersive Itineraries: Each Quick Getaway combines must-see cities with lesser-known gems, providing a rich experience in a limited time.Easy Travel Logistics: With overnight flights from the East Coast of the U.S., travelers can board their ship the same day, minimizing jet lag and maximizing vacation time.Ideal for Add-On Trips: These cruises work seamlessly as an extension to a business trip or as a quick addition to a longer European vacation.Unmatched Accessibility: Experience destinations that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships, such as Collioure, and enjoy rare sailing experiences like the Tower Bridge passage.Affordability & Special Deals: With early booking offers, onboard credits, and all-inclusive packages, these getaways provide value without compromising on luxury.Quick Getaway Itineraries: Explore Europe in Style1. A Taste of Southern France (3 Nights)Destinations: Sète, Collioure, CarcassonneHighlights: Kayak in the crystal-clear waters of Sète, explore the charming streets of Collioure, and visit the medieval citadel of Carcassonne. This itinerary offers a blend of French culture, history, and culinary delights.2. La Dolce Vita in Italy & France (3 Nights)Destinations: Corsica, TuscanyHighlights: Stroll through the markets of Corsica, savor local wines in Tuscany, and sail along the coast of Italy and France. A perfect mix of Italian and French elegance, this itinerary highlights the beauty of the Mediterranean.3. Belgium: A Sweet Getaway (3 Nights)Destinations: BrugesHighlights: Discover the fairytale architecture and canals of Bruges, enjoy authentic Belgian chocolates, and immerse yourself in the medieval charm of this UNESCO-listed city.4. St. Malo Getaway (4 Nights)Destinations: London, Mont St. Michel, Northern FranceHighlights: Sail under the iconic Tower Bridge in London, explore the medieval beauty of Mont St. Michel, and experience the rugged northern coast of France. This itinerary combines famous landmarks and scenic beauty.Windstar Cruises’ Commitment to Luxury

Windstar Cruises, known for its intimate, all-suite yachts, continues to push the envelope on creating extraordinary, enriching travel experiences. The Quick Getaways collection brings the same exceptional service, fine dining, and personalized attention that Windstar guests have come to expect, but in a more condensed and accessible format. These sailings are designed to fit seamlessly into busy schedules without compromising on the immersive, luxurious experience that Windstar is renowned for.

Early Booking Discounts: Plan Your Getaway Now

For those looking to take advantage of these limited-time offers, booking by August 31, 2025, comes with several incentives. Guests will receive special pricing, onboard credits of up to $200 per stateroom, and the option of an all-inclusive package (covering select alcohol, gratuities, and Wi-Fi) valued at nearly $1,400 for two on a weeklong cruise. Additional savings are available with the “Pay Now, Save More” offer, which provides an extra 5% discount when booking is paid in full at the time of reservation. Early booking is key to securing premium suites and the best possible itineraries.

More Quick Getaways in 2027: What’s Next?

Looking ahead, Windstar Cruises plans to expand its Quick Getaways offering further into 2027, continuing to provide travelers with luxurious yet time-efficient options for exploring Europe. Details for these additional sailings will be revealed in September 2025, so stay tuned for more exciting updates on Windstar’s upcoming European deployments.

Why Choose Windstar for Your Next European Escape?Intimate, Yacht-Style Cruising: With a maximum capacity of just 350 guests per ship, Windstar provides an intimate experience, allowing travelers to explore ports in depth while enjoying a relaxed, yacht-like atmosphere.Port-Intensive Itineraries: Windstar’s focus is on delivering destination-rich itineraries that allow guests to truly experience the culture, history, and lifestyle of each location.Exceptional Dining and Service: With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and unique dining experiences, guests will indulge in world-class meals and attentive service throughout their journey.Sustainable Travel: Windstar’s fleet is committed to eco-friendly practices, ensuring your journey has minimal environmental impact while maximizing your experience.How to Book Your Windstar Quick Getaway

Booking a Quick Getaway is easy with Windstar’s online booking system, which offers a user-friendly experience to secure your spot on these exclusive itineraries. You can also reach out to Windstar’s vacation planners at 866-258-7245 for personalized assistance or request a call to discuss your travel needs.

For those looking to explore unique destinations in Europe in a short but luxurious format, Windstar’s Quick Getaways offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. With itineraries spanning iconic cities like London, Bruges, and Mont St. Michel, as well as hidden gems like Collioure and Sète, these cruises offer an unforgettable experience for those seeking both convenience and exclusivity.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Limited Time with Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises’ Quick Getaways are revolutionizing the way travelers experience Europe, making it easier than ever to embark on a luxurious and enriching journey in just a few days. Whether you’re looking to extend a business trip, escape for a weekend, or simply enjoy a spontaneous European adventure, these cruises provide the perfect opportunity to do so. With immersive itineraries, exceptional service, and exclusive offers, Windstar Cruises is setting the standard for short luxury getaways, proving that sometimes, great things do come in smaller packages.