Cruise Guide: Glamour of Cannes, Monaco tops voyage

By Michael Coleman

The glamour of Cannes, France and the thrill of a Formula One Race in Monaco are but a few of the perks afforded guests on an upcoming Mediterranean sailing aboard Wind Surf.

The eight-day roundtrip voyage from Nice, France aboard the 312-guest ship, beginning May 18, starts with an overnight stay during the star-studded Cannes Film Festival followed by three nights in Monaco during the prestigious Formula One Grand Prix race. 

Other port calls include St. Tropez, France and St. Florent, Corsica.

This cruise offers guests the exciting allure of Cannes, exclusive Grand Prix events and luxurious Mediterranean cruising, said Diane Moore, Executive Vice President, Windstar Cruises.  

Guests eager to attend the Grand Prix, May 23 to May 25, can purchase a special tour package through Windstar. It includes a private Welcome to Monaco cocktail reception and gala dinner on board the ship; an exclusive gift package of Bushnell binoculars, an official Grand Prix  program, official Monaco Auto Club Ticket holder, souvenir hat and souvenir jacket. Guests will also receive Tribune K reserved seating at the Formula One Grand Prix time trials on Saturday. 

On May 24, Windstar will be hosting an exclusive reception at the H.S.H. Prince Rainier III Auto Collection Museum. Guests will be able to view the 100-car exhibit plus observe six state coaches belonging to the late Prince Rainier III of Monaco. The automobile used to drive Rainier and Grace Kelly away from the church after their storied wedding will also be on display. The private reception will be catered by Frances famous Lenotre of Paris.

On Sunday, a private breakfast on board the ship is followed by the final day of Grand Prix racing, complete with reserved seating, trackside. 

Windstar operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the worlds most treasured destinations.  

The line will visit some 50 nations in 2008, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas.

The Cannes/Monaco coupling, complete with its star power, proves to be among the lines most popular itineraries.