From sailing between the majestic landmarks of the Mediterranean to the cosy coves and stunning shores of the Caribbean, it’s safe to say that setting sail onboard a luxury yacht for a glamorous holiday is up there with the most amazing holiday experiences to be had. Add to that the appeal of the opulent facilities, dining options, and unforgettable moments to be had on board said ship, before you’ve even stopped off at some of the world’s most iconic destinations, and you have yourself quite the enchanting trip.
Cruising comes in all shapes and sizes, and for the discerning traveller, there’s arguably no better set of ships to set sail with than the majestic Star Clippers. Operating three of the world’s most spectacular tall ships, these sailing vessels are able to visit intimate ports often untouched by larger cruise ships, while also offering passengers the activities, amenities and atmosphere of a private yacht.
Star Clippers is recognised as one of the premier speciality cruise lines and it’s easy to see why. Passengers can enjoy the romance of sailing on board a true tall ship in a relaxed atmosphere with high standards of service provided by an attentive crew. All three ships in the fleet have expansive teak decks, swimming pools, informal dining, a convivial Tropical Bar and a comfortable piano bar.
Expect a dedicated, intimate experience an unrivalled service on board with a 2:1 guest to crew ratio, with Royal Clipper, the largest and only five-masted full-rigged sailing ship – carrying just 227 guests and its sister ships, Star Clipper and Star Flyer, carrying 166 guests each.
Their Clipper heritage is reflected in every inch of their polished brass and gleaming brightwork, while the comfort and elegance of their opulent dining rooms and outdoor tropical bars are reminiscent of travelling on a private yacht.
Within the setting of a magnificently evocative tall ship is a world for those who seek an authentic sailing adventure without sacrificing creature comforts. These graceful ships fly along the waves, just like the legendary clippers of a century and a half ago. And this is as much an adventure in highly evolved relaxation as it is in tradition. For though computers have not replaced the skilled hands of the crew in the art of raising sails, guests are not expected to become barefoot seamen. Relax and let the crew do the work.
Guests are invited to set foot aboard Star Clipper, Star Flyer or Royal Clipper, where, as thousands of square feet of sail unfurl above you, you will feel the elation of those mariners of long ago. The perfect balance of maritime nostalgia and modern cruising, passengers are invited to help raise the sails, learn how to tie a knot and can visit the open bridge any time they please. The more adventurous can go so far as to lie in the bowsprit net suspended above the rushing sea or climb the mast to the Crow’s Nest for stunning panoramic views as they sail.
If, on the other hand, you’d rather sit back, relax and enjoy what the ship has to offer, then you can do so by taking in a number of the water sports available to you, including kayaking, wind surfing, snorkelling and swimming; devouring the delectable international cuisine whipped up by the inspired chefs; and marvelling at your blissful surrounds.
This is true sailing, and for 30 years, Star Clippers has been offering an authentic, natural sailing experience with both modern propulsion methods and traditional sailing to transport guests to a range of exciting destinations far-and-wide, including summers in the Mediterranean and winters in the Caribbean and a brand-new destination; Central America. Firm favourites include ocean crossings and, on many bucket lists, the Panama Canal.
There is still time to book a last-minute summer 2022 sailing on board any of the Star Clippers ships. 2022 has seen the return of Star Clipper to the Mediterranean where she will revisit firm favourites such as Istanbul-Athens sailings, as well as Rome round-trip itineraries.
Winter 2022/23 sees Star Clipper head to Costa Rica with new itineraries. Star Clipper will sail the shores of Central America from November 2022 through to March 2023 where she will primarily operate two seven-day round-trip itineraries from Puerto Caldera, sailing on the Pacific side of the country. These itineraries will in turn take in Nicaragua one week, and Panama the next, and the season will begin and end with a 14-night Panama Canal sailing.
Winter 2023/24 will see all three of the magnificent tall ships return to the Caribbean and Central America, while unique experience can be combined with these holidays, such as a 2023 Monaco Grand Prix, or Ryder Cup 2023 package, which takes in the finals in Rome following a seven-day sail, while the Venice Simplon-Orient Express package combines the finest rail and sailing journeys for a 16-night extravaganza.
Book early to take advantage of Star Clippers’ early booking discounts (10-20%), plus repeat passengers will receive an additional 5% discount.
