MIAMI, FL, December 20, 2023 - Windstar Cruises, a leader in small ship luxury cruising, proudly announces its latest triumph - securing the esteemed Cruise Ship Interior Awards 2023 “Best Suites at Sea” accolade for The Broadmoor and Sea Island specialty suites onboard two of its three Star Plus Class yachts. The suites were recognized as the best suites on small ships.
“We are thrilled that these suites have earned this prestigious recognition, not only because they are incredible spaces but also because they represent such an innovative partnership among our affiliated brands,” said Andrew Todd, President and CEO of Windstar’s parent company, the Xanterra Travel Collection. “Each suite includes nuanced details that authentically capture the essence of The Broadmoor and Sea Island experience, of course done in Windstar’s unique way. Hats off to Windstar President Christopher Prelog for bringing this vision to life and being duly recognized for the efforts.”
Introduced in 2022 and 2023 on all-suite, 312-passenger Star Legend and Star Breeze, the two specialty suites are inspired by Windstar’s Forbes Five-Star sister companies The Broadmoor and Sea Island.
The Broadmoor, located in Colorado Springs, is known for endless adventures and European elegance paired with Western charm and mountain vistas. Guests who reside in The Broadmoor suite find an ambiance that mirrors this allure: a traditional space with classic furniture, floral motifs, white trim with gold finishes and wide crown molding. An exact replica of the wallpaper used at The Broadmoor Main Building, designed by Julie Penrose (wife of resort founder Spencer), is featured prominently in the suite.
“We are honored knowing that Julie’s wallpaper, which is instantly recognizable to our guests, and The Broadmoor’s classic style are part of a project receiving this prestigious award,” said Scott Flexman, The Broadmoor’s vice president of sales and marketing. “Julie’s love for travel inspired and influenced the décor of the Broadmoor, and now, a piece of that history is sailing around the world on Windstar Cruises. It’s a wonderful, full-circle moment, crossing 105 years of history and our larger family of travel experiences at Xanterra.”
Sea Island is equally iconic: situated on the coast of Georgia and radiating Southern charm, the resort provides a picturesque backdrop for an array of outdoor activities. In the Sea Island suite, travelers find elegant touches that evoke the property’s Addison Mizner design including curved arches, light walls, and sophisticated wood furnishings. The overall look is quite coastal and airy – colors like sea-glass green are used throughout.
"It was our immense pleasure to bring a little southern hospitality to the high seas and are thrilled that the iconic Sea Island aesthetic has contributed to this win for Windstar Cruises," said Scott Steilen, president and CEO of Sea Island. “Through our shared ownership, Sea Island is proud to be a part of a great family of hospitality offerings, including The Broadmoor - located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Windstar Cruises.”
While adhering to the International Maritime Organization rules and prioritizing safety at sea, Windstar brought these visions to life. For the wallcoverings, Windstar designed custom wallpapers for both suites on International Maritime Organization-certified paper. In The Broadmoor Suite, the striking wallpaper that adorns the suite’s bedroom and walk-in closet is an exact replica of the wallpaper used at The Broadmoor Main Building designed by Julie Penrose (wife of resort founder Spencer).
Windstar’s third Star Plus Class yacht Star Pride will receive the two new suites during a drydock renovation in 2024.
For more details on Windstar Cruises, visit www.windstarcruises.com.
