Dreaming of a holiday that combines the romance of traditional sailing with the comfort of modern luxury?
Look no further than Star Clippers, a unique cruise line that offers an unparalleled sailing experience on some of the world’s most impressive tall ships.
I was lucky enough to be invited to sail on Star Clippers’ flagship, Royal Clipper. Here are ten reasons why I think this is a cruise line to consider for your next voyage…
1. Sail on the World’s Largest Tall Ships
Star Clippers boasts an impressive fleet of vessels that will take your breath away.
The crown jewel of their collection is the Royal Clipper, recognised by the Guiness Book of Records as the largest fully-rigged sailing ship in the world. This magnificent vessel is a sight to behold, with its towering masts and intricate rigging system that harkens back to the golden age of sail.
The design of Star Clippers’ ships is a masterful blend of traditional sailing aesthetics and modern engineering. As you approach these majestic vessels, you’ll be struck by their sleek lines and gleaming woodwork. The multiple masts, adorned with both staysails and square sails, create a silhouette that stands out dramatically against the horizon.
2. Experience Authentic Sailing Adventures
One of the most thrilling aspects of cruising with Star Clippers is the opportunity to experience genuine sailing. These ships aren’t just for show; they’re designed to harness the power of the wind and provide passengers with a true sailing adventure.
The ships feature both staysails and square sails, managed by an advanced roller-furling system that allows for efficient sail handling. This means that, weather permitting, you’ll spend a significant portion of your journey under sail power alone.
There’s nothing quite like the moment when the engines are cut, and the ship surges forward powered only by the wind filling its sails. You’ll feel a connection to the sea and the elements that’s simply not possible on a traditional cruise ship.
3. Enjoy Intimate and Exclusive Cruising
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer size and crowded nature of large cruise ships, you’ll appreciate the intimate atmosphere on a Star Clippers cruise. With a much smaller passenger capacity compared to traditional cruise liners, these ships offer a more personal and exclusive experience.
The Royal Clipper, for instance, accommodates just 227 passengers, a far cry from the thousands you might find on a mega-ship. This smaller scale means you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. You’ll have the opportunity to get to know your fellow passengers and the crew, fostering a sense of community that’s often missing on larger ships.
This intimate setting also provides a unique opportunity to meet interesting people from various countries. Whether you’re sharing stories over dinner or discussing the day’s adventures on deck, you’re sure to make lasting connections with like-minded adventurers from around the world.
4. Access Unique Ports and Destinations
One of the significant advantages of Star Clippers’ smaller ships is their ability to access ports and destinations that are off-limits to larger cruise liners. This means you’ll have the opportunity to explore lesser-known gems and avoid the crowds often associated with popular cruise destinations.
Star Clippers’ tender boats are able to sail right onto the beach. So with your ship anchored off-shore, there’s really no limit to the size of the post you can visit, whether it’s a large port like Civitavecchia (for Rome) or a tiny island in Southeast Asia.
Star Clippers’ itineraries often include a mix of well-known locations and hidden treasures. Whether you’re cruising the Caribbean, exploring the Mediterranean, or venturing to exotic destinations, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective on both famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path locales.
5. Indulge in Luxurious Amenities
While Star Clippers offers an authentic sailing experience, it doesn’t skimp on luxury. These ships seamlessly blend the charm of traditional sailing vessels with the comfort and amenities of a modern luxury cruise.
On board, you’ll find a range of facilities designed to enhance your comfort and enjoyment. The Royal Clipper, for instance, boasts a unique water sports marina at the stern. This platform can be lowered to sea level, providing easy access for swimming, snorkelling, and other water activities right from the ship.
Other amenities might include multiple swimming pools, a spa for indulgent treatments, well-stocked libraries for quiet relaxation, and comfortable lounges for socialising.
The cabins, while maintaining a nautical charm, are equipped with modern conveniences to ensure a comfortable stay.
It’s worth noting that while these ships offer luxury, they do so in a way that’s in keeping with the sailing ship aesthetic.
Don’t expect the flashy, over-the-top amenities you might find on mega-ships. There are no crystal staircases here! Instead, Star Clippers provides a more refined, understated luxury that complements the authentic sailing experience.
6. Savour Gourmet Dining Experiences
Dining is an essential part of any cruise experience, and Star Clippers doesn’t disappoint in this regard. Despite the smaller size of the ships, the quality of the culinary offerings is top-notch.
Typically, Star Clippers ships feature a single main dining venue, creating an intimate and sociable atmosphere for meals. This setup encourages passengers to mingle and share stories of their day’s adventures over exquisite meals.
The menus on Star Clippers cruises are crafted to reflect the destinations you’re visiting, often incorporating local flavours and ingredients. You can expect a range of international cuisines. Fresh seafood is often a highlight, given the nautical setting.
Star Clippers cruises are ideal for those with any kind of special dietary requirement. As a vegan, I was made a special menu just for me each evening. And when it came to the breakfast and lunch buffet, a crew member was always available to greet me personally and show me which options were suitable.
While the dining options may be more limited compared to larger ships with multiple restaurants, the focus is on quality rather than quantity.
The intimate dining setting, combined with the high standard of cuisine, creates a memorable gastronomic experience that’s an integral part of your Star Clippers adventure.
7. Participate in Unique Onboard Activities
Star Clippers offers a range of unique onboard activities that you won’t find on typical cruise ships. These activities are designed to enhance your sailing experience and provide unforgettable memories.
One of the most thrilling activities is the opportunity to climb the mast. Under the supervision of crew members, you can ascend the rigging for a bird’s eye view of the ship and the surrounding sea. It’s an exhilarating experience that gives you a true sailor’s perspective.
For a more relaxed activity, you can lounge in the bowsprit netting, suspended over the waves at the very front of the ship. It’s a perfect spot for sunbathing or watching for marine life.
Star Clippers also offers educational opportunities that align with the sailing theme. You might have the chance to attend navigation classes, learning the basics of plotting a course using traditional methods.
In the evenings, star gazing sessions take advantage of the clear skies away from light pollution, allowing you to marvel at constellations and learn about celestial navigation.
These unique activities contribute to the overall sailing experience, allowing you to be as involved or as relaxed as you choose during your journey.
8. Enjoy Attentive and Professional Service
The smaller size of Star Clippers’ ships allows for a more personalised level of service. With a lower guest-to-crew ratio compared to larger cruise ships, you can expect attentive and professional service throughout your journey.
The intimate nature of the ship means that crew members can get to know passengers individually, often anticipating needs and preferences.
The crew on Star Clippers ships are not just there to provide service; they’re an integral part of the sailing experience. Many crew members are skilled sailors, and their passion for the sea often shines through in their interactions with passengers.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself chatting with crew members about sailing techniques or the ship’s impressive rigging system!
I spent a good ten minutes chatting to the barman who made me a cocktail, because nobody else was at the bar. The said he loves how he’s able to chat to the guests and that it was never possible when he worked on the big cruise ships as there was no time.
9. Experience a Blend of Adventure and Relaxation
A Star Clippers cruise offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. For those seeking excitement, the authentic sailing experience provides plenty of thrills. You can get involved in sailing activities, participate in water sports, or explore exciting ports of call.
On the other hand, if relaxation is more your style, there are ample opportunities for that too. You can lounge by the pool, soak up the sun on deck, or find a quiet corner to read a book from the ship’s library. The gentle motion of the ship and the sound of the waves create a naturally soothing environment.
Many passengers find that the pace of life on a Star Clippers cruise is more relaxed compared to larger ships. There’s less pressure to participate in constant activities or stick to rigid schedules.
Instead, you’re free to shape your day as you see fit, whether that means joining in on sailing activities or simply watching the world go by from a comfortable deck chair. Whether you’re an active adventurer or a dedicated sun-seeker, you’ll find your perfect balance on board.
10. Benefit from Excellent Value for Money
While Star Clippers cruises may seem expensive at first glance, they offer excellent value for money when you consider the unique experiences they provide.
Compared to other luxury cruise lines, Star Clippers often comes in at a competitive price point, especially when you factor in the exclusive nature of the sailing experience.
I was shocked at how cheap the drinks are onboard. A glass of wine or beer is just €3.50 and fancy frozen cocktails are €7.
If you wish to offer a gratuity, the suggested about is €8 per night, which is around half of the average on a standard cruise ship.
It’s important to remember that the value of a Star Clippers cruise goes beyond just the price tag. The authentic sailing experience, access to unique ports, intimate atmosphere, and personalised service all contribute to creating unforgettable memories that are, in many ways, priceless.
The Bottom Line
A Star Clippers cruise offers a truly unique way to explore the world. From the thrill of sailing on the world’s largest tall ships to the intimate and luxurious on-board experience, there are countless reasons to choose Star Clippers for your next holiday.
Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply looking for a cruise experience that’s a cut above the ordinary, Star Clippers provides an adventure that combines the romance of the past with the comforts of the present.
So why not set sail on a journey that promises not just a holiday, but a genuine maritime adventure?
For a closer look at what to expect onboard, check out my Star Clippers vlog…
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
