Former royal chef to cook for Windstar cruisers

A former chef for Queen Elizabeth II will cook for passengers on a Windstar Cruises sailing in June.

The small-ship line says Darren McGrady will prepare a three-course "royal feast" aboard the 212-passenger Star Legend during a seven-night British Isles trip kicking off June 19.

The meal will follow a private event at a 13th century castle that McGrady will host. Passengers will tour the castle while sampling appetizers, sparkling wine, and music from a Welsh choir.

McGrady also will host an afternoon tea during the sailing in which he will answer questions and share favorite recipes.

Windstar's new Private Event program brings a unique, complimentary and destination-specific event to every sailing.

McGrandy served as personal chef to Queen Elizabeth II; Diana, Princess of Wales; and Princes William and Harry for 15 years.

The Star Legend is the second of two former Seabourn vessels joining the Windstar Cruises fleet this month. It'll be re-christened under the Windstar banner on May 25 after an extensive overhaul in dry dock. The first of the two vessels, the 212-passenger Star Breeze, began sailing for Windstar on May 6, also after a major overhaul.

For our 'first look' tour of the revamped Star Breeze, click through the carousel below.