Windstar Cruises bets on Southern Italy: the ‘Bella Italia’ itinerary is a success

Windstar Cruises reported a high level of occupancy and satisfaction for the first two summer departures (July 7 and August 1) of the new itinerary “Bella Italia: a Southern Italian Romance” aboard the Wind Surf, a 342-passenger sailing yacht. The route aims to discover an authentic and less conventional side of the peninsula, highlighting ports and coastal communities in Calabria and Puglia such as Reggio Calabria, Vibo Valentia, Taranto, and Otranto. This project was strongly desired by Janet Bava, the brand’s Chief Commercial Officer and affectionately connected to Calabria, created with the aim of supporting local tourism while respecting the traditions of the territory.

The initiative demonstrates the growing demand in the premium and luxury segment for experiences focused on slow travel, local gastronomy, and contact with nature (also facilitated by the sailing yacht’s aft watersports platform). Building on this success, Windstar continues to strengthen its presence in the Mediterranean, where it already calls at over 32 Italian ports. The company’s strategy will be further enriched in December 2026 with the debut of Star Explorer, a new cruise yacht that will allow for the extension of operations and itineraries in the Mediterranean basin well beyond the usual summer season.