Don't miss
Here’s a weird thing – there is a thriving Venetian glass industry here, dating back to the need for glass fishing floats.
From Otaru to Osaka
2027 Japan Mystery Cruise
From Otaru to Osaka
2027 Japan Mystery Cruise
Voyage Itinerary
14 September
Setting sail from Otaru
The charming port town of Otaru, on Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, is a common start and end point for cruises visiting both Japan and the Russian Far East. The town has a notable history, playing an important role in the herring trade during the 19th century, and this is reflected in the stone warehouses alongside the picturesque canal. It's only a small place, so if you run out of things to do then the city of Sapporo is just a half-hour train ride away, or you can explore the wild and beautiful landscapes of rural Hokkaido.
15 September to 21 September
: Mystery Ports
22 September to 24 September - At sea
25 September
Arriving in Osaka
Osaka, Japan’s third largest city, is a pulsating commercial hub, famous for its food, and the cityscape rivals Tokyo for neon-lit futurism. If you need respite from the urban sprawl seek out Osaka Castle and the surrounding Nishinomaru Garden, a particularly pretty spot during the cherry blossom season.
The ship
Star Seeker
- Capacity:
- 224 Guests
- Crew:
- 112 Staff
- Style:
- This is laid-back luxury at its best with relaxed informal days, refined yet comfortable evenings and a friendly and welcomingcrew.
Windstar's new sister ships, Star Seeker and Star Explorer, will each have 112 suites and a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:2, offering Windstar's brand of laid-back luxury with some enhancements.
What we love
Each yacht will maintain the intimate atmosphere of Windstar's other ships, and will feature Windstar's classic watersports platform with new staircase access, as well an intimate forward whirlpool and spacious open deck perfect for Windstar's famous deck barbecues, alongside a two-level spa and fitness centre. Dining options include dishes from James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs, as well a Yacht Club café and lounge. Star Seeker joined the fleet in December 2025, and Star Explorer will join in December 2026.
inclusions
- All meals in all venues including room service
- Soft drinks, speciality coffees and teas
- Champagne welcome reception
- All onboard entertainment
- Use of the Fitness Centre & yoga classes
- Unlimited use of all watersports equipment (local regulations permitting)
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Otaru
If you’ve always wanted to stay at a ryokan, Ginrinso could be a great choice – expensive, but pretty special.
Take a tour of Otaru
A local tour by ebisuya (rickshaw) is easy paced with a great guide thrown in.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From cruise tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions
visit our faqs
Will I save by booking with Mundy Cruising?
Absolutely. You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line and enjoy more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
From flights and transfers to hotels and tours, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and also offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24hr emergency contact, so we offer complete peace of mind.
What are the benefits of a small luxury ship?
Because small ships are able to reach smaller ports of call and provide a higher level of service than their big ship counterparts, we believe that small ship cruising is the very best way to travel. Usually they offer more space per person, and an attentive team to make sure you have the very best experience. Small ship cruising offers the very best of the best.
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Latest news and travel inspiration
News, trip reports, cruising advice and industry insight brought to you from our expert team.
Why Mundy?
Who we are
Founded in 1970, we have sold more luxury cruises for more years than anyone else in the UK.
Mundy Cruising was the very first cruise specialist in the UK. We have been making the best cruise holidays even better since 1970.
How? Simply by offering our clients more expertise, more personal service, more unique ideas, more fascinating add-ons, more fabulous freebies and more peace of mind.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
