Windstar Cruises is embarking on a groundbreaking venture by stepping into the world of equestrian sports.
The cruise line has introduced Windstar, a horse named after the brand, as part of a unique partnership with Grand Prix rider Kelli Cruciotti Vanderveen and Serenity Farm Show Stables. This collaboration is set to combine luxury travel with the prestige of international show jumping.
On December 25, Windstar Cruises officially welcomed the horse Windstar to its family with a ceremonial christening. The cruise line has joined forces with top equestrian professionals to strategize a long-term training plan for the horse, aiming to develop Windstar into a champion show jumper. The ambitious goal includes preparing the horse for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, with a series of competitions leading up to it.
Windstar Cruises’ President, Christopher Prelog, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Our unique collaboration aims to bring awareness to the travel community about what it takes to train a champion show-jumping horse. We are thrilled to align with skilled professionals to help Windstar achieve success in the competitive equestrian field.”
Windstar, the horse, will compete in several high-profile 2025 equestrian events, including the Winter Equestrian Festival, World Equestrian Center, Tryon International, The Hampton Classic, and the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. These competitions will mark the beginning of Windstar’s journey to becoming a top contender in the show-jumping world.
Kelli Cruciotti Vanderveen, the horse’s rider, is among the youngest and most promising talents in American show jumping. Currently ranked in the top 300 riders globally, she represents Serenity Farm Show Stables, an internationally recognized training facility in Florida. Cruciotti Vanderveen described the collaboration as a “game changer,” saying, “Windstar Cruises is such a unique company with a fantastic focus on luxury and fun. Combining their vision with the prestige of show jumping is truly incredible.”
The partnership highlights Windstar Cruises’ philosophy of delivering experiences “180 degrees from ordinary.” By blending the worlds of luxury travel and competitive equestrian sports, the cruise line is showcasing its innovative approach to redefining its brand identity.
With its focus on training for success, Windstar the horse symbolizes the cruise line’s commitment to excellence, not only at sea but also in the competitive arenas of equestrian sports. As the journey unfolds, Windstar Cruises will continue to build its presence in a realm far removed from its traditional waters, offering travelers and equestrian enthusiasts a new avenue to connect with the brand.
