Windstar Cruises' Wind Spirit offers travelers an intimate exploration of the Greek Isles through a seven-day roundtrip itinerary departing from Athens, emphasizing authentic local cuisine and immersive cultural experiences aboard a small-ship vessel designed for discerning guests.
The cruise line's commitment to culinary authenticity begins with direct sourcing from island farmers and local markets. The ship's crew regularly procures fresh ingredients, including Greek yogurt, dried blackberries, strawberries, figs, grape leaves, anchovies and savory mushrooms to incorporate into daily meal preparations. This farm-to-table approach ensures guests experience genuine Mediterranean flavors while supporting local communities throughout the itinerary.
Onboard dining at the Veranda Café showcases regional specialties with Greek-style breakfast offerings featuring locally sourced yogurt, dried fruits and honey that reflect the area's Blue Zone dietary influences. The culinary program emphasizes seasonal Mediterranean staples including legumes, grains, nuts, olive oil and fresh produce, highlighting the healthful simplicity that defines traditional Greek cuisine.
Wind Star in Monemvasia, Greece. (Photo Credit: Windstar Cruises)
The itinerary includes carefully curated excursions that blend scenic beauty with gastronomic discovery. In Santorini, guests enjoy a catamaran cruise across the dramatic caldera with swimming opportunities and a barbecue lunch featuring pork or chicken skewers accompanied by fresh Greek salad. Mykonos exploration allows time for independent discovery of local shops, cafés and tavernas, with the ship's general manager actively participating in sourcing regional delicacies during port visits.
The voyage's culinary pinnacle occurs during an exclusive evening in Ephesus, where guests experience a private four-course dinner served in front of the illuminated Celsus Library. Following a guided walk through ancient marble streets, diners enjoy dishes such as eggplant in lemon sauce, purslane with yogurt and veal stew, paired with local wines in an unforgettable historical setting.
Additional cultural touches include introductions to regional traditions, such as mastika liqueur from Chios served as an after-dinner digestif. The cruise's slow travel philosophy emphasizes leisurely dining experiences without crowds or time pressure, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in authentic Greek island culture while enjoying the personalized service that defines Windstar's boutique approach to cruising.
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