Windstar’s Secret Anchors: 5 Lesser-Known Ports You Can Only Visit on a Small Ship

Imagine stepping off a luxurious yacht into a quiet, picturesque harbor where the streets are car-free, the beaches are pristine, and the locals welcome you like an old friend. This is the magic of small-ship cruising with Windstar, where intimate vessels can navigate narrow waterways and dock at exclusive ports that mega-cruise ships simply cannot access.

For travelers who crave discovering hidden gems, Windstar offers a gateway to some of the world’s best-kept secrets – places where you can skip the crowds and soak in the authentic charm of a destination. From hidden Greek islands to untouched Caribbean shores, here are five lesser-known ports that you can only visit on a small ship.

Tucked along the Argolic Gulf, Nafplio is one of Greece’s most picturesque and historically rich towns. Often overshadowed by more well-known destinations, this charming coastal gem offers a perfect blend of Venetian architecture, scenic waterfronts, and an authentic Greek ambiance.

Unlike larger ports bustling with cruise crowds, Nafplio remains an intimate escape, with its small harbor allowing only boutique ships like Windstar’s to dock nearby. This ensures a relaxed, immersive experience, free from the congestion of mass tourism.

Stroll through the Old Town, where neoclassical mansions, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and lively squares create a postcard-perfect setting, or climb the 999 steps to Palamidi Fortress for panoramic views of the sea and town. Then take a boat to Bourtzi Castle, a Venetian stronghold perched on a tiny islet in the bay, offering a unique glimpse into Greece’s storied past.

Most Caribbean islands are known for bustling cruise ports, duty-free shopping, and packed beaches – not Bequia. This lesser-known small island in St. Vincent & The Grenadines is a tranquil paradise where time slows down, and the only thing on your agenda is to unwind.

With no deep-water port to accommodate large cruise ships, Bequia remains blissfully untouched by mass tourism. Windstar’s yachts anchor offshore, allowing guests to tender in and experience the island’s natural beauty in a way that’s impossible on a mega-cruise ship.

Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Princess Margaret Beach, named after the British royal who once vacationed here, visit the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary and meet the locals dedicated to protecting endangered hawksbill turtles, or sip rum punch at Jack’s Beach Bar, a quintessential Caribbean hangout with ocean views and a laid-back vibe.

Few places exude effortless glamour quite like Portofino, a dreamy fishing village-turned-jet-set haven on the Italian Riviera. With its pastel-colored buildings, luxury yachts, and cliffside hiking trails, Portofino is the kind of place you want to linger.

The town’s harbor is too tiny for mega-ships, meaning only small vessels like Windstar’s can dock here. Instead of arriving in a massive industrial cruise terminal that is miles from the action, Windstar guests step off their ship and directly into Portofino’s charming waterfront.

Hike to Castello Brown for sweeping views of the Ligurian coastline, indulge in fresh focaccia and local wine at a seaside café, or take a boat ride to the secluded San Fruttuoso Abbey, a hidden gem only accessible by sea or a challenging hike.

If you’re looking for a tropical escape far from the ordinary, Fakarava is it. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in French Polynesia is home to some of the most pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear lagoons, and rare marine life in the world.

Larger ships can’t navigate Fakarava’s shallow atolls, making this untouched paradise accessible only to small, expedition-style vessels like Windstar’s yachts. This means no crowds, no commercialization – just pure, unspoiled nature.

Dive with reef sharks in the South Pass, one of the world’s top scuba diving sites, bike through the sleepy village of Rotoava, where the only traffic jam is a few wandering chickens, and relax on secluded pink-sand beaches, where the only footprints are your own..

Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain, Fort William is a haven for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike. Known as the "Outdoor Capital of the UK," this small but charming town offers breathtaking landscapes, rich Scottish heritage, and a welcoming local culture.

Unlike large cruise ships that bypass Scotland’s more intimate ports, Windstar’s small vessels dock close to the heart of Fort William, allowing guests to step ashore and instantly immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings.

Large cruise ships are unable to navigate the narrow waterways leading to Fort William, leaving it a hidden gem for small-ship travelers. This exclusivity ensures a more authentic, crowd-free experience, perfect for those who want to explore Scotland’s Highlands at a relaxed pace.

Take in the scenery with a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, famous as the Hogwarts Express from Harry Potter, through the rolling Scottish countryside, or hike the Highlands and marvel at some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. No trip to Scotland is complete without a whisky tasting – stop by the Ben Nevis Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest, to sample a dram and learn about traditional whisky-making techniques.

From the timeless charm of Nafplio to the untouched wilderness of Fakarava, Windstar’s small-ship advantage opens up a world of destinations that most travelers never get to see. These hidden gems are waiting to be explored – without the crowds, the chaos, or the commercialization of mega-ship cruising.

• Exclusive Access: Visit ports that larger ships can’t reach, offering a more intimate and immersive journey.
• Cultural & Natural Wonders: Explore historic cities, pristine beaches, and remote islands with deep-rooted history and breathtaking scenery.
• Personalized Experiences: Enjoy a relaxed and unhurried pace, longer stays in port, and unique shore excursions tailored to small groups.
• Luxury Without the Pretense: Experience world-class service, gourmet dining, and a yacht-style atmosphere without the formality of larger cruise lines.

Sailing with Windstar isn’t just a vacation – it’s a journey into the heart of rich heritage, storied pasts, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Every port, including those highlighted here and many more along Windstar’s itineraries, promises an immersive and exclusive experience.