The Wind Star was built in the Ateliers et Chantiers du Havre shipyard in Le Havre as the lead ship of a class of three new types of sailing cruise ships with four masts and computer-controlled sails. She was launched in 1985 and was handed over to Windstar Cruises on September 21, 1986. Her sister ship Wind Spirit , which is also in service for Windstar Cruises, followed in 1988. The other sister ship, Wind Song , was lost in a fire in 2002.
The Wind Star has a maximum capacity of 148 passengers. In addition to the main dining room "Amphora", the ship has a veranda restaurant on deck. Further facilities include a lounge, library, pool, spa area and a platform for water sports activities.
