Exploring Tahiti’s beautiful landscapes with Windstar Cruises

eling, sun lounges and a BBQ lunch, the other a marae religious complex.
The tours range from fairly intense hikes to easy-going bus trips. My favorite was on Huahine when we visited the town, archaeology sites, a vanilla farm and the mayor’s shop for souvenirs. The buses are air-conditioned and very comfortable.
But it’s still a cruise, so for almost everyone the highlight was Bora Bora. It’s where I spent most of my money, and my enjoyment, tubing one day, and shark and manta ray snorkeling the next. The organized snorkeling trip was through a company called Moana Adventure Tours, and it was fantastically well done. The guides were fun, entertaining and skillful, managing to get me close to some huge and awe-inspiring creatures.

Who’s on board Windstar?
Common among all the passengers was at least one previous cruise, a bucket list experience. Most, in fact, were Windstar experts, having done multiple times. The list was made up of mostly well-to-do Americans, but there was also a smattering of British, Australians and Kiwis.
The age demographic was definitely older, but I was struck by the amount of people under 65 participating. Most had plenty of energy but were looking for a relaxed experience with a hint of adventure.
Conversation was easy to come by with fellow passengers. It was easy to find a partner in the hot tubs, bars or around the ship. The staff were fantastic at turning first names into familiar faces and preferences. It’s a personal touch and one guests appreciated and commented on regularly.
11 gorgeous days later, I stepped off the Windstar Star Breeze feeling fuller in my emotions. I had new friends, had explored some beautiful islands and relaxed on the high seas. It’s an experience that might feel luxurious at first consideration, but as one Windstar regular told me: “It just becomes normal.”