SEATTLE, June 3, 2008 -- For the second year in a row, Windstar Cruises has been voted the best small-ship cruise vacation by the readers of Celebrated Living, American Airlines' first-class magazine.

"We are truly grateful to our guests and the readers of Celebrated Living for choosing to honor us once again with the top spot on the list of small-ship cruises," said Diane Moore, president, Windstar Cruises. "We take very seriously our commitment to ensure that our guests have unforgettable experiences aboard our ships and that keeps us continually striving to enrich our world-class itineraries and service standards."

The honor was published in the 2008 Platinum List, an annual reader's choice guide to what the publication touts as the "best-of-the-best" travel and vacation experiences in the world.

The selection of itineraries for the 2009 and winter 2010 season aboard the 312-guest Wind Surf and 148-guest Wind Star and Wind Spirit include an extraordinary selection of voyages to the Caribbean, Cost Rica, Europe, Greek Isles and Transatlantic passages.

With the addition of a new Signature Collection Series, Venice roundtrip sailings and completed ship enhancements, Windstar Cruises has raised the bar for their loyal guests and fellow sailing enthusiasts. Guests interested in enchanting locales, fine dining, luxurious accommodations, or spending time with renowned wine makers, top chefs and acclaimed artists will all have something to look forward to aboard Windstar Cruises.

A leader in small ship luxury cruising for the last 20 years, Windstar is popular for its casual attire, alternative dining venues, rich mix of shore excursions, complimentary water sports program, deluxe spa facilities and luxurious accommodations.

Windstar's recent awards include acknowledgements from Porthole Cruise Magazine for Most Romantic Cruise Line and Best Tall Ship by readers in the 9th Annual Readers' Choice Awards. Windstar has also earned top honors in Travel + Leisure's World's 2007 Best Awards, was lauded among "The World's Best Small Ships" by Conde Nast Traveler readers in 2007, and was recognized as the best small-ship cruise vacation by readers of Celebrated Living.

Windstar describes itself as follows:

Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world's most treasured destinations. Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious ships of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas.