SEATTLE — Windstar is encouraging cruisers to book now for more perks with its new wave season offer.

The ‘Sail Small, Live Large With Big Perks’ offer runs from Jan. 5 through Feb. 28, 2021 and includes a reduced deposit of 5% plus one of the following ‘Pick Your Perk’ savings options:

• Up to US$1,000 shipboard credit per stateroom
• One night hotel pre- or post-cruise on Europe voyages
• Premium beverage package (wine, beer, spirits, soda)
• Free Wi-Fi

Guests may pick one complimentary perk, which varies depending on the length of their cruise and room category. Along with this offer, deposits have been reduced from 15% of the cruise fare to 5%. Moreover, Windstar’s updated ‘Travel Assurance Booking Policy’ allows cancellation up to 48 hours prior to departure on 2021 cruises.

According to Windstar president Chris Prelog, booking now is encouraged as small-ship cruising is in big demand for 2021 and 2022.

“As vaccines start to roll out around the world, we are all seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, and that’s spurring people to plan much farther ahead,” he said. “Take advantage of these special offers now so you can enjoy the vacation you want in your desired destination and timeframe, otherwise you may find yourself left out.”

Prelog also noted that Windstar’s vacation planners are seeing an increase in new-to-Windstar guest bookings because “they want to sail on smaller ships in a more intimate atmosphere.”

Windstar’s three small, all-suite yachts and three sailing ships are able to cruise to waterways and ports where mega ships cannot sail, accommodating between 148 to 342 guests in total. In addition to offering ultra comfort, Windstar launched its new Beyond Ordinary Care program featuring HEPA filters and UV-C ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to filter and disinfect the air and backpack sprayers to sanitize all surfaces.

“We are expecting a tidal wave of bookings in the months ahead now that the vaccine is being distributed,” added Prelog. “The Caribbean is easy to access for many and will be very popular, especially aboard the newly transformed Star Breeze. And our most popular destinations that typically sell out are the Greek Isles, Italy, Iceland and Tahiti.”

For more information go to windstarcruises.com.