September 1523, 2013
Wind Star Cruises MSY Wind Surf
Sailing Changes Everything: Discover Spain's coastal jewels, a unique blend of east meets west, which infuse your senses with the sights, tastes and temptations of this magical region. Costa Blanca. Costa Brava. Costa del Sol. Between Lisbon and Barcelona lies a world of sun-drenched magic, yours to explore on this extraordinary voyage.
An Eight-Night Fiesta for Your Soul.
Our voyage begins in Lisbon, one of the world's oldest cities. Here, history sparks a connection within and beckons your spirit with a Southern European soul. Lose yourself in narrow alleys, sip chilled glasses of vinho verde and step back in time. Then, drift away on the ocean breeze aboard the world's largest sailing yacht, the MSY Wind Surf, as we caress the romantic Costa del Sol by the light of the full Mediterranean moon. Ports of call include Portimao - a resort town popular with the sailing crowd, Cadiz - the ancient Phoenician city, Málaga – the birthplace of Picasso, and Palma de Mallorca – the Balearic island where the Spanish Royals summer. We're even spending a night in Ibiza, the gay-friendly party paradise where you can unwind on the beach or be swept up by the world's best nightlife. Recharged and reinvigorated, why not continue the adventure in Barcelona. The Catalan capital's cultural riches include the architecture of Gaudí, such as the Sagrada Familia. An ultimate act of faith, this basilica remains under construction 130 years after ground first broke.
Full Moon Lisbon to Barcelona Gay Cruise Itinerary
Day 1 - Sunday, September 15, 2013 Lisbon, Portugal
Our journey begins in Portugal's capital and Europe's westernmost city, recently proclaimed European City of the Year by the Academy of Urbanism. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. One of Europe's smallest capital cities, Lisbon is for many an easily accessible mix of new and old worlds. Elegant outdoor cafes line Lisbon's mosaic cobblestone sidewalks along grand 18th century boulevards. Turn-of-the-century funiculars dot its steep hills. Two-thirds of the city was leveled in a 1755 earthquake, but in its churches, peeling buildings, tiny alleyways, and hidden squares, you can still feel the glorious past. Hunt down the perfect Pastel de Nata – Portugal's famous custard tart – and savor some traditional Fado music along the way.
Day 2 - Monday, September 16, 2013 Portimao, Portugal
Surrounded by calm seas and sublime weather, this Portuguese resort town is a popular destination with the sailing crowd. As local fishermen continue living off the sea, a visit here isn't complete without sampling their fresh, grilled sardines.
Day 3 - Tuesday, September 17, 2013 Cadiz & Seville, Spain
Cádiz is the most southern province of the Iberian Peninsula. It is extremely rich in natural beauty and some of the most important Natural Parks of Spain and Europe are found here including Sierra de Grazalema and Los Alcornocales. Both are rich in flora and fauna, including species under threat of extinction. Many birds find their resting and feeding place here just after or before making the jump from or to Africa
Founded by Phoenician sailors 3000 years ago, Cadiz is considered the oldest continually-inhabited city in Europe. Savor a glass of Barbadillo – the local white wine, climb the North Tower of the Cathedral for a spectacular view, or join our group on an optional excursion to the home of Flamenco music – Seville – where you can relish some of the best tapas in the world.
Day 4 - Wednesday, September 18, 2013 Malaga & Alhambra, Spain
With the Moorish influence of North Africa to the south, and the Rock of Gibraltar due north, we sail through the glorious gateway of the Mediterranean en route to Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, where a visit to the Museo Picasso Malaga is only fitting. Malaga is the major coastal city of Andalucia and is a genuine and typical Andaluz city with a gritty individualism untouched by tourism and, to a large extent, the passage of time. An optional day excursion brings you to the palatial complex of Alhambra, featuring some of Spain's finest Islamic art and architecture.
Day 5 - Thursday, September 19, 2013 Day at Sea
This is your invitation to a day of indulgence. Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience. Stretch out by the pool with your favorite beverage. Grab a great book or your favorite movie from the library. Stretch your muscles with our state-of-the-art fitness equipment. Dine in sumptuous casual style, or wrap yourself in that comfy waffle-weave robe and enjoy your meal in the privacy of your beautiful stateroom. Your delight is our single priority for your day at sea.
Days 6 and 7 - Friday, September 20, 2013 Saturday, September 21, 2013 Ibiza, Spain
After a day at sea, where you can replenish and recharge, dive into the pristine waters and notorious nightlife that define this island. Watch the sun set over a few libations at Cafe del Mar, take a disco nap on the beach, or unwind with some of Ibiza's more sedate offerings. Since the 1960's it has been one of Europe's main summer destinations. Residents have long recognised the popularity of their island with gay men and lesbians from around the world. Ibiza has been an extremely popular Gay destination for over twenty years.
Day 8 - Sunday, September 22, 2013 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Our journey through the Balearic Islands continues on to Palma. Here you can stop by the Palace of Marivent – where the Spanish Royals' summer, wander the narrow streets of the Old City, and keep an eye out for – of all things – some of the finest trash cans you may ever see. Mallorca is an island of emerald mountains, turquoise seas, lemon and orange orchards, olive groves, and cedar-studded hills. In Palma de Mallorca, the capital, you'll find a dramatic seafront cathedral to explore and leafy promenades to stroll. Visit the Arab Baths for a glimpse of the town's Moorish past. Or simply enjoy the sun, sand, and sea that have beguiled celebrities, jet setters, and royal families for years.
Day 8 - Monday, September 23, 2013 Barcelona, Spain
Our final stop is a Mediterranean gem where you can literally see history in the making at Sagrada Família: Gaudí's tribute to the Holy Family (it remains under construction 130 years after ground was broken). As our cruise disembarks on a Monday, consider a post-hotel package for the weekend to really immerse yourself in Catalan culture, cuisine and architecture. Capital of proud Catalonia, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city like no other. Old and new combine in Barcelona; narrow Gothic Quarter alleyways contrast with grand boulevards. Everywhere, the city celebrates the work of Gaudi, its surreal modernist hometown architect. The city also boasts an incredible collection of Picasso's work. Stroll down Las Ramblas, Barcelona's wide tree-lined boulevard and enjoy the street carnival. Enjoy delectable tapas in the many restaurants and bars.
Your Ship - The largest sailing ship in the World Wind Surf
The Wind Surf is a sleek, fully renovated in 2012 four-masted sailing yacht accommodating 312 guests. With six decks and a gross tonnage of 14,745, the Wind Surf is the largest sailing yacht in the World. Wind Surf features wide open, teak decks—quite unusual for small ships. With over 22,090 square feet of open deck space, guests will find hidden nooks for private moments giving them a feeling of being on their own private verandah. The Source Events All-Gay Windstar experience: THERE'S NOTHING QUITE LIKE IT ON EARTH Tall billowing sails – brilliant blue seas – sun-drenched teak decks. Your with your close friens – old and new – discovering the world's finest destinations. Nurturing your mind, body an soul as you explore tiny harborgs and hidden coves where no one else can go. Invigorating your sense with 5-Star cuisine. And celebrating all life has to offer. This is the inspiration behind every Source Event Windstar Cruise.
Your voyage includes:
• Newly remodeled Ocean View staterooms
• Sumptuous linens, towels & bedding
• L'Occitane bath products
• Fresh flowers and fruit basket
• Well-stocked Mini-bar
• Bathrobes, slippers & spacious closets
• Massaging shower head
• Twenty-four hour in-room dining
• Flat-screen television. DVD player.
• Bose SoundDock speakers.
• Private safe. Hair dryer. Alarm Clock.
• Individual climate control
• Direct dial telephone
All staterooms have ocean views, queen beds, flat-screen TV with DVD player and Bose SoundDock speakers for Apple iPods. Wind Surf suites include an extra bath and TV along with sitting area and his-and-her bathrooms. The new spa suites include lush spa robes, tea service and credits for certified organic spa services and fitness classes in WindSpa. Wind Surf bridge suites give guests the additional luxury of a spacious private living room and relaxing whirlpool spa.
Wind Surf has several dining spots. Degrees, is by reservation only and features an alternative menu reflecting the fresh and seasonal preparations of Mediterranean cooking. The Restaurant offers gourmet, course-by-course cuisine in the evenings and the Veranda restaurant offers casual dining for breakfast and lunch. For dining under the stars, the alfresco top deck eatery Candles offers steaks and skewers.
Wind Surf has the most elaborate fitness and spa facilities in the Windstar fleet, outclassing most facilities on other similar-size ships. Additional amenities include casino and lounge, salon, water-sports platform, two pools and two hot tubs. The Yacht Club is the ship's "living room" and library decorated with intimate groupings of comfy couches and chairs, perfect for reading, catching up on news, browsing the internet, or enjoying good conversation with friends.
Wind Surf Amenities
On Wind Surf, you feel like you are sailing on your own private yacht. Windstar's award-winning service and style gives you the luxury of choice to enjoy what you like, when you like and with whom you like.
Have a fabulous five-star dinner and great bottle of wine in The Restaurant, Degrees, or Candles. Treat yourself to an aromatherapy massage at WindSpa. Work out on state-of-the-art equipment in the fitness center. Enjoy live music and cocktails at the Compass Rose. Take a refreshing dip in the pool. Read your favorite book on our comfortable chaise lounges on deck. Test your luck in the casino. Try kayaking, waterskiing and windsurfing from our watersports platform. On Windstar, you're as free as the wind to experience the smallest of wonders and the greatest of joys.
Ship Amenities:
• Complimentary soft beverages, including bottled water, sodas, fresh juices, milk, fruit smoothies, tea, coffee, cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and expresso
• Expanded Fitness Center
• Skylight Main Lounge featuring nightly entertainment
• Internet Corner + WiFi access
• Luxurious Wind Spa and Salon
• Outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi
• Water-sports Platform (marina), equipment includes complimentary snorkel gear, Sunfish sailboats, windsurfers, kayaks, and water mats. Scuba equipment available for an additional charge.
• Casino with slot machines, blackjack and poker tables
• International crew of 90 on hand for 24-hour pampering
• Library stocked with DVDs, CDs, books, and board games
• Gift shop
• Infirmary with Physician
Dining is open seated:
• Amphora – Gourmet cuisine served course-by-course nightly
• Veranda – Breakfast and lunch made to order or in fresh "market-style" buffets
• Candles Grill – Romantic outdoor deck restaurant
• Degrees Restaurant – Alternative menu freshly prepared every day by reservation only
• Twenty-four hour in-room dining
• Afternoon tea with sweet treats
• Night Fare served at 10:30 pm
• Social Hour and drink specials in Main Lounge Upscale bar serving premium spirits
Wind Surf Accommodations
You are on course to a world of elegance and ease. The journey begins in your soothing oceanview stateroom on Wind Surf with the shimmering sea just outside your window. May be you feel like watching a DVD from the library on your flat-screen TV. Perhaps you feel like slipping between luxurious linens for an afternoon nap. Or maybe you feel like staying right where you are and dining in your stateroom. Why not? Especially when it's served in courses, with the same polish and attention you'll find in The Restaurant.
All staterooms have ocean views, queen beds, flat-screen TV with DVD player and Bose SoundDock speakers for Apple iPods. Wind Surf suites include an extra bath and TV along with sitting area and his-and-her bathrooms. The new spa suites include lush spa robes, tea service and credits for certified organic spa services and fitness classes in WindSpa. Wind Surf bridge suites offer the additional luxury of a spacious private living room and relaxing whirlpool spa.
Soon, evening stars will light up the sky, guiding you toward another new day of promise and possibility. Sleep as late as you like and as often as you want. This is your kingdom to rule as your wish.
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