Windstar Adds Pedal Power To Their Cruises

More often than not if you want to pedal more than an exercise bike in the gym, you're out of luck on most cruise ships. Exceptions are SeaDream Yacht Club and some European river boats, but the pickings are slim.

However, cycling enthusiasts now have a new biking option that features 7000-series, aluminum frame Dragon Marine Folding Bikes. Windstar Cruises has added the bike program to its fleet of sailing yachts for passengers who enjoy exploring destinations on their own by bicycle rather than on foot. Wind Surf has eight of the bikes and Wind Spirit and Wind Star each have four.

While there is no charge for using the bikes available on SeaDream and most river boats (other than when they are part of an organized shore tour), Windstar is a less-all-inclusive cruise line and their bikes come with a fee. The bikes, including helmets, locks, and chains, are available for half day rental at $39 for four hours or a full day of eight hours for $59. Bikes are available to rent in most ports and can be reserved through Windstar's Destination Manager aboard each vessel.