Star Collector: French Elegance and Spanish Flair

 
Rouen to Barcelona
Sun Aug 22, 2027 - Wed Sep 15, 2027,
 24 days
 on Star Explorer
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Starting from $13,599 USD
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ITINERARY AND SHORE EXCURSIONS

The best on land brought to you by the best at sea. Get to the heart of local cultures with Windstar shore excursions. You don't want to just dip a toe in local culture, you want to dive into the deep end, and that's exactly what Windstar shore excursions are designed to do. All of our excursion are created to provide authentic local experience - the kind travelers like you are looking for. And with more than 2,500 excursions to choose from, you can experience your destination in whatever way is most meaningful to you. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, a history buff, or someone who loves to get to know the faces behind the many places we travel.

Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
Marina
Shore
Excursions
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Sun Aug 22
Rouen
Arrive:
Depart:
Watersports Platform: 
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This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.
Mon Aug 23
Rouen
Arrive:
Depart:8:45 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.
Tue Aug 24
Honfleur
Arrive:3:30 AM
Depart:6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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Sitting on the estuary where the Seine River meets the English Channel, the charming character of this harbor town has been the subject of artists like Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin. The 15th century St. Catherine’s church is an interesting vaulted timber structure built by shipbuilders. And a walk along the edge of the Honfleur Estuary will pass town gardens, beaches, and a view of the Normandy Bridge. You can also find the intriguing local cider along the Route du Cidre.
Wed Aug 25
Caen
Arrive:8:00 AM
Depart:6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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This third largest port of Normandy is a small ship only port full of historical significance and is the gateway to the Normandy beaches of WWII. View the stunning former Benedictine monastery, the imposing Chateau de Caen built by William the Conqueror in 1060 and the Pegasus Bridge. Then take a walk in the Vaugueux District with its pedestrian-only street lined with shops and eateries.
Thu Aug 26
St-Malo
Arrive:10:00 AM
Depart:11:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city’s ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant. 
Fri Aug 27
Guernsey, Guernsey
Arrive:7:00 AM
Depart:1:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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TBA
Sat Aug 28
Lorient
Arrive:1:00 PM
Depart:10:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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A unique feature in this seaport steeped in maritime history is that only one cruise ship a day can come here so a visit to this town is exclusive. Visit the Church of Our Lady of Victory, a UNESCO site with a bell tower made of concrete. Also find the Tour de la Decouverte and climb the 216 steps to a panoramic view of the port and sea.
Sun Aug 29
AT SEA
Arrive:
Depart:
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Mon Aug 30
Bordeaux
Arrive:8:00 AM
Depart:
Watersports Platform: 
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Bordeaux has long been known as La Belle au Bois Dormant, Sleeping Beauty.  And while the beauty part is undeniable, the sleeping part could be argued. Sure, the region is filled with treasures from long ago, including more than 350 historic monuments and buildings in the city alone. But the capital of Aquitaine is also home to a vibrant culture and, as oenophiles well know, is the gateway to some of France’s most famous vineyards. In this UNESCO World Heritage city, 13th century cathedrals and 18th century palaces are commonplace. Venture beyond the city’s borders to the chateaux of the Médoc region or to Saint-Émilion, a breathtaking medieval village set among the vineyards that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tue Aug 31
Bordeaux
Arrive:
Depart:6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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Bordeaux has long been known as La Belle au Bois Dormant, Sleeping Beauty.  And while the beauty part is undeniable, the sleeping part could be argued. Sure, the region is filled with treasures from long ago, including more than 350 historic monuments and buildings in the city alone. But the capital of Aquitaine is also home to a vibrant culture and, as oenophiles well know, is the gateway to some of France’s most famous vineyards. In this UNESCO World Heritage city, 13th century cathedrals and 18th century palaces are commonplace. Venture beyond the city’s borders to the chateaux of the Médoc region or to Saint-Émilion, a breathtaking medieval village set among the vineyards that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wed Sep 1
Saint-Jean-de-Luz (Biarritz)
Arrive:1:00 PM
Depart:
Watersports Platform: 
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Three impressive sea walls protect Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s famous long beach of fine sand making it perfect for swimming. It is also famous for delicious and rustic-style Basque cuisine and its close proximity to well-known Biarritz, an eclectic place of posh restaurants, cozy pizza parlors, beautiful beaches with therapeutic waters popular for surfing and is a preferred haunt of the rich and famous.
Thu Sep 2
Saint-Jean-de-Luz (Biarritz)
Arrive:
Depart:6:00 AM
Watersports Platform: 
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Three impressive sea walls protect Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s famous long beach of fine sand making it perfect for swimming. It is also famous for delicious and rustic-style Basque cuisine and its close proximity to well-known Biarritz, an eclectic place of posh restaurants, cozy pizza parlors, beautiful beaches with therapeutic waters popular for surfing and is a preferred haunt of the rich and famous.
Thu Sep 2
San Sebastian / Pasaia
Arrive:10:00 AM
Depart:10:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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The resort town of San Sebastian on the beautiful Bay of Biscay is known for two golden-sand beaches, Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta. Walk along the picturesque bayside promenade lined with world-renowned restaurants. The cobblestoned Old Town features vibrant pintxo bars featuring local tapas favorites and upscale boutiques. A soaring statue of Christ overlooks this culinary capital of Spain.
Fri Sep 3
Bilbao
Arrive:8:00 AM
Depart:6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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The industrial port of Bilbao is surrounded by lovely green mountains, fertile landscapes with lush forests, steep coasts and the Bay of Biscay. Famed for the curvy, titanium-covered Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum, other sites of Bilbao include the Euskalduna Conference and Music Centre, Norman Foster’s Underground, towers designed by architects Arata Isozaki and Cesar Pelli, and an airport designed by Calatrava.
Sat Sep 4
Gijon
Arrive:7:00 AM
Depart:1:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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Gijon started out as a quiet fishing village some 3,000 years ago and there are many remnants of its passage through time. Explore the colorful houses and shops of Cimadevilla, the old quarter. There are ancient Roman baths at Termas Romanas. Rent a bike and ride the 13 miles of bike lanes past the many outstanding outdoor sculptures. Before you leave, try a glass of the local apple cider, or sidra.
Sun Sep 5
Vigo
Arrive:1:30 PM
Depart:10:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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See the twisting streets, old mansions, and beautiful plazas of the old district, parts of which have survived since medieval times. Dine on fresh seafood found all over Vigo but especially in the famous El Berbes Quarter. Or head further afield to Santiago de Compostela, where a magnificent cathedral has greeted pilgrims since the 9th century.
Mon Sep 6
Leixoes (Porto), Portugal
Arrive:8:00 AM
Depart:2:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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Built into the granite cliffs at the mouth of the Rio Douro, the hilly city of Porto presents a heady juxtaposition of eras and styles. Here, medieval alleyways, orderly neighborhood squares, and ornate Baroque churches readily intermingle. Porto’s historic heart is a UNESCO site of winding lanes, zigzagging staircases and tiled churches. The highlight, though, is a taste of port wine at its best – a happy accident dating from the 17th century when brandy was discovered to preserve wine for transit. After your choice of palate-pleasing shore excursions, return for an onboard fado folk music performance.
Tue Sep 7
Lisbon
Arrive:8:00 AM
Depart:
Watersports Platform: 
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The rhythm of Lisbon invites you to join its captivating dance. This splendid capital city on the banks of the Rio Teja offers a warm welcome and an unparalleled blend of architectural styles. Elegant outdoor cafés line the cobbled sidewalks. Turn-of-the-century funiculars climb the scenic hills. Find the UNESCO sites of the Tower of Belem and the Monastery of the Hieronymites. And, everywhere, the city engages you with its easy style and remarkable charm.
Wed Sep 8
Lisbon
Arrive:
Depart:11:00 AM
Watersports Platform: 
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The rhythm of Lisbon invites you to join its captivating dance. This splendid capital city on the banks of the Rio Teja offers a warm welcome and an unparalleled blend of architectural styles. Elegant outdoor cafés line the cobbled sidewalks. Turn-of-the-century funiculars climb the scenic hills. Find the UNESCO sites of the Tower of Belem and the Monastery of the Hieronymites. And, everywhere, the city engages you with its easy style and remarkable charm.
Thu Sep 9
Seville
Arrive:6:00 PM
Depart:
Watersports Platform: 
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Today we cruise up the Guadalquivir River into the heart of Seville. (Most large cruise ships dock in Cádiz more than an hour away.) The Renaissance struck early here, during the Dark Ages that cloaked the rest of Europe. The Old Town alone contains three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the incomparable Alcázar Palace, just waiting for your own oohs and ahhs to echo through the Moorish arches and Italian courtyards. Or head out to the Donana National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Fri Sep 10
Seville
Arrive:
Depart:4:30 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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Today we cruise up the Guadalquivir River into the heart of Seville. (Most large cruise ships dock in Cádiz more than an hour away.) The Renaissance struck early here, during the Dark Ages that cloaked the rest of Europe. The Old Town alone contains three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the incomparable Alcázar Palace, just waiting for your own oohs and ahhs to echo through the Moorish arches and Italian courtyards. Or head out to the Donana National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Sat Sep 11
Tangier
Arrive:7:00 AM
Depart:9:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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Fascinating Tangier is a traveler’s delight with beautiful vistas, lovely unspoiled beaches, intriguing history and friendly people. Separated from Spain by only 20 miles across the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is considered by many to be the gateway to Africa. With its cosmopolitan mix of African and European influences, there are many interesting sites in Tangier.  The two UNESCO sites of the Medina (the old-walled city) a bustling place, and the Kasbah which offers beautiful views and fine Moroccan art, and the Place de France in the heart of the new city is an entertaining place to sip mint tea and enjoy the view.
Sun Sep 12
AT SEA
Arrive:
Depart:
Watersports Platform: 
Mon Sep 13
Cartagena
Arrive:12:00 PM
Depart:6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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The walled town of Cartagena is a popular seaport with a large naval shipyard. The seashore offers a wide range of activities from windsurfing to good snorkeling to sailing. From Cartagena you can easily explore the ancient city of Murcia, the coastal resorts of Mazarrón, Cala Cortina, and Cabo de Palos or a little further north, the world famous resort of Mar Menor.
Tue Sep 14
Valencia
Arrive:9:30 AM
Depart:6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
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This captivating city is best when savored slowly. Although Valencia’s religious architecture is remarkable, and the Lonja, one of Europe’s most elegant buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take time for an optional experience — paella. You’ll learn the local secrets of this gastronomic masterpiece as you cook it, eat it, and toast it with the region’s perfectly matched local wines.

Want insider advice on where to find the tastiest restaurants, most unique local markets, authentic culinary shops, and hidden watering holes? Check out Valencia’s Local Dining Tip Curated by Saveur on our blog.

Wed Sep 15
Barcelona
Arrive:7:00 AM
Depart:
Watersports Platform: 
6 Available
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The old meets the new in this sunny Catalan metropolis, where narrow alleyways contrast with grand boulevards, trendy cuisine meets homemade tapas, and everywhere you’re greeted by the warm, welcoming smiles of the fashionable locals. Don’t miss UNESCO sites like the mind-boggling architecture of Antoni Gaudí or La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, with its eight decorative spires soaring hundreds of feet into the sky.
6 Shore Excursions Available
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Barcelona, Gaudi’s Barcelona & Parc GuellCulture | Essentials Collection | Sightseeing | Walking
Duration5 Hours
Activity LevelModerate-Strenuous
$205
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Barcelona Montserrat with Transfer to Airport *Culture | Essentials Collection | Sightseeing | Walking
Duration4 Hours
Activity LevelStrenuous
$165
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Barcelona Montserrat with Transfer to Windstar Hotel *Essentials Collection | Sightseeing | Walking
Duration4 Hours
Activity LevelStrenuous
$165
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Barcelona, Barcelona Sights & TapasCulture | Essentials Collection | Sightseeing | Refreshments | Walking
Duration4 Hours
Activity LevelEasy-Moderate
$149
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Barcelona Highlights Tour & Transfer to Airport *Culture | Essentials Collection | Sightseeing | UNESCO
Duration3.5 Hours
Activity LevelModerate
$109
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Barcelona Highlights Tour & Transfer to Windstar Hotel *Essentials Collection | Sightseeing | UNESCO
Duration3.5 Hours
Activity LevelModerate
$109
VIEW DETAILS