Calling all foodies and luxury cruise enthusiasts! Windstar Cruises, renowned for its small ship luxury experiences, is celebrating a momentous occasion – the 10th anniversary of its groundbreaking partnership with the James Beard Foundation in 2025. This collaboration has transformed the way guests experience fine dining at sea, offering immersive culinary journeys led by celebrated chefs.
A Decade of Culinary Delights: Windstar and the James Beard Foundation
Since its inception in 2015, the Windstar Cruises and James Beard Foundation partnership has become a beacon for epicurean adventures on the high seas. As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar is dedicated to showcasing the talents of culinary masters while aligning with the Foundation’s mission of celebrating, supporting, and elevating America’s food culture. This shared commitment to excellence in food, sustainability, and equity ensures an unforgettable dining experience for every guest.
The James Beard Foundation is a non-profit organization that plays a vital role in shaping America’s culinary landscape. Their focus on recognizing culinary talent, championing ethical food practices, and fostering a diverse and inclusive food scene aligns perfectly with Windstar’s dedication to fresh, local, and sustainable gastronomy.
Celebrating a Milestone: All-Star Chefs Set Sail in 2025
To commemorate this remarkable decade, Windstar Cruises has curated a series of five exceptional cruises in 2025, each featuring a renowned “All-Star” chef. Four of these culinary luminaries are returning guest favorites who have previously graced Windstar voyages with their expertise, while one chef is a thrilling new addition to the lineup.
These acclaimed chefs will not only tantalize your taste buds with their signature dishes but will also share their culinary knowledge and passion through interactive experiences onboard. Get ready for:
Chef-hosted dinners and wine pairings: Enjoy a memorable evening of exquisite cuisine, insightful conversation, and perfectly paired wines, all under the guidance of the featured chef.
Engaging cooking demonstrations: Learn valuable culinary techniques and gain inspiration as the chefs demonstrate their signature dishes. You’ll even receive recipe takeaways to recreate these gourmet creations in your kitchen.
Shoreside market tours: Embark on a guided exploration of a local market, led by the chef, where you can discover fresh, seasonal ingredients and delve deeper into the region’s unique culinary traditions.
Meet the 2025 James Beard Foundation All-Star Chefs :
Chef Jamilka Borges (March 15, 2025): Hailing from Puerto Rico, Chef Borges brings her vibrant Caribbean flavors and innovative dishes to the “Windward Ways & Tobago Cays: Aruba to Bridgetown” voyage aboard the Star Pride.
Chef José Mendin (April 12, 2025): Experience the culinary magic of Chef Mendin’s Spanish and Puerto Rican roots on the “Spanish Symphony: Lisbon to Barcelona” voyage aboard the Wind Surf, Windstar’s flagship.
Chef Jennifer Hill Booker (June 29, 2025): Chef Booker’s unique blend of Southern comfort food with a French twist will tantalize your taste buds on the “Baltic Beauty: Stockholm to Copenhagen” voyage aboard the Star Legend.
Chef Jennifer Jasinski (August 27, 2025): A James Beard Award winner, Chef Jasinski’s Southwestern cuisine will take center stage on the “Adriatic Archipelagos & Greek Goddesses: Venice to Athens” voyage aboard the Wind Surf.
Chef Larry Forgione (October 7, 2025): Considered a pioneer of American cuisine, Chef Forgione brings his farm-to-table philosophy and legendary culinary expertise to the “Southeast Canadian Explorations: Montreal to New York” voyage aboard the Star Pride.
Beyond the Kitchen: The Windstar Difference
Windstar Cruises is renowned for its intimate and luxurious small-ship experiences. This translates to spacious suites, personalized service, and an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. In addition to the exceptional culinary program offered in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, guests can enjoy a variety of onboard activities and amenities, including:
Exhilarating Watersports: Explore hidden coves and pristine beaches by kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or tender.
In-Depth Destination Immersion: Windstar’s smaller scale allows for access to unique ports and hidden gems, often off the beaten path for larger cruise lines.
Unwinding in Style: Relax by the pool, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, or soak up the sun on your private balcony.
Setting Sail for Unforgettable Culinary Adventures
Windstar’s James Beard Foundation cruises offer a truly unique opportunity to combine the luxury of small-ship cruising with the expertise of world-renowned chefs. Imagine sailing to breathtaking destinations around the world while indulging in exquisite cuisine, learning culinary secrets from the masters, and forging lasting memories. Here are some additional reasons to consider a Windstar James Beard Foundation cruise:
Personalized Attention: With a guest-to-staff ratio of nearly 1:1, Windstar prides itself on personalized service. The attentive crew will ensure your every need is met, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Intimate Atmosphere: Unlike the crowded mega-ships, Windstar’s smaller vessels foster a sense of intimacy and camaraderie. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow passengers who share your passion for fine dining and exploration.
Sustainable Practices: Windstar is committed to sustainable cruising practices, minimizing its environmental impact and supporting local communities. This aligns perfectly with the James Beard Foundation’s focus on ethical food sourcing.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply enjoy exquisite cuisine in a luxurious setting, a Windstar James Beard Foundation cruise is sure to exceed your expectations.
