ridethetide

We were extremely lucky in that we only had one day where the weather was "Icelandic" (windy, rainy, cold). It was in the 50s and 60s the other days with lots of sun and calm seas. You can't count on that delightful weather, however. I would bring a rain jacket, parka with hood, waterproof hiking shoes/sneakers, waterproof pants, fleece shirt or jacket, sweater, wool socks, warm hat and gloves. I wore fleece-lined leggings frequently. Bring a bathing suit for the hot tub, sauna, and steam bath. Dressing in layers is the best way to go. You will love the cruise. Wishing you smooth sailing.

I did an itinerary from Colon to St. Martin pre-Covid on the Star Breeze or Legend. It included from your list Cartagena, Aruba, and Bonaire. Cartagena was a wonderful place to visit, and Bonaire offered lovely drift snorkeling. I've been to Mayreau, St Lucia and Bridgetown on other Windstar sailings, and loved them. Although I have never been to San Blas, it is supposed to be gorgeous, and is indeed a tourist destination. Perhaps the day at San Blas is the beach party and that's why no excursions are offered. I just recently disembarked from the Star Pride, having done the Iceland circumnavigation. We didn't need air conditioning in Iceland. Food and service were impeccable as always.

Nobody ever stated that I was not allowed to do so. In fact, they wrap the sandwiches up for me to take. How do you know it is not permitted? Where is that stated?

I have often taken sandwiches from the Yacht Club off the ship to eat ashore.

Just disembarked from the Star Pride this morning. Starlink is a huge improvement. I found the service to be quite efficient.

All aboard is 30 minutes before departure.

My TA booked kayaking for our January cruise, but we were waitlisted. The slots fill up early apparently.

We will be on that sailing as well. Can't wait!

I actually loved the sloshing sound and slept incredibly well.

This photo was taken from our cabin on Deck 1 of the Wind Star while cruising from Colon, Panama to Bermuda, a re-positioning cruise that they never have repeated.

I have Speedo brand as well, and they are terrific.

My TA just confirmed that it is the Hilton in Buenos Aires..

You could purchase cloudberry jam or lingonberry jam.

On all Windstar ships they provide L’OCCITANE shampoo, conditioner, lotion, body wash and soap. Lovely lemon verbena fragrance.

It is actually quite rare to see children as young as 10 years old on any Windstar ship. There are no planned children's activities/entertainment. That's something to keep in mind. Each child, of course, is different, but some might find the time on board boring. To the best of my knowledge, there is no discount for children.

I bring mine and nobody has said anything about it.

Yes, they provide a bag in every cabin whether you use it for the package or piecemeal or not at all. The laundry service is highly recommended.

When we stopped in Montserrat several years ago on the Legend, we not only had quiet seas but the winds were blowing in the direction which allowed us a clear view of the top of the volcano. Apparently, that is rare.

The tour of the buried city was quite fascinating.

I have embarked from Colon on 3 Windstar cruises and always took their bus transport to Colon from Panama City, which you pick up at the hotel they have made arrangements with. I believe it cost me $79/person and was, to me, well worth it. On one occasion, the bus broke down, and a replacement was sent immediately. Because the transport is arranged by Windstar, the ship would never leave without the passengers on the transport. In a country like Panama, that is an assurance that makes me happy. I have been on 10 Windstar cruises and have never regretted it.

Colon is definitely not a place to explore on your own. I imagine they will offer excursions.

I doubt you could disembark any earlier since they need to take care of immigration requirements prior to disembarkation. It is worth asking, however.

You sign up after you board.

In 10 cruises, never have I been asked to sign a drink receipt when on the drink plan. They know who you are, what you drink, and are amazingly attentive. Your experience certainly differs from my observations.

And slippers