Star Clippers: Complete Cruise Line Guide
Step aboard a magnificent tall ship where the romance of bygone eras meets modern comfort, where the sound of canvas catching wind replaces the hum of diesel engines, and where you can actually climb the rigging if you’re feeling adventurous. This is Star Clippers, the cruise line that dared to ask: “What if we brought back the golden age of sailing?” The answer is nothing short of magical.
Star Clippers isn’t your typical cruise line with Vegas-style shows and rock-climbing walls. Instead, it’s for those who crave authentic sailing experiences, intimate atmospheres, and the kind of adventure that comes from traveling under canvas and wind power. Founded by Swedish entrepreneur Mikael Krafft, this unique cruise line operates the world’s largest fleet of tall ships designed specifically for passenger cruising.
What Makes Star Clippers Special
The first thing you’ll notice about Star Clippers is what you won’t find: crowds, formal dress codes, and rigid schedules. These ships carry between 170 to 300 passengers maximum, creating an atmosphere more akin to a private yacht than a floating city. The experience feels delightfully unstructured – you can help hoist the sails, take the helm under supervision, or simply lounge on deck with a book while the ship glides silently through pristine waters.
The ships themselves are masterpieces of maritime engineering. Built to resemble 19th-century clipper ships but equipped with modern safety features and amenities, they represent the perfect marriage of nostalgia and practicality. The largest, Royal Clipper, boasts 42 sails and stands as tall as a 20-story building when fully rigged.
The Star Clippers Experience
Forget about assigned dining times and stuffy dress codes. Star Clippers operates on “island time” – relaxed, flexible, and refreshingly informal. Meals are served in open-seating restaurants where conversations flow as freely as the wine, and the cuisine reflects the Mediterranean and Caribbean regions where these ships primarily sail.
The daily routine revolves around the rhythms of sailing and the destinations themselves. Morning might find you swimming from the ship’s marina platform in a secluded bay, while afternoons could involve exploring charming coastal towns that larger ships simply cannot reach. Evenings often feature local musicians or storytelling under the stars, with the gentle creaking of rigging providing the soundtrack.
Destinations and Itineraries
Star Clippers focuses on regions where tall ships truly shine: the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and select areas of Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean. These itineraries emphasize smaller, less-visited ports that showcase authentic local culture rather than tourist-heavy destinations. For those exploring Mediterranean cruises, Star Clippers offers an unparalleled way to experience this historic region’s hidden gems.
Caribbean routes often include gems like Bequia, Les Saintes, and Tobago Cays – places detailed in our comprehensive Caribbean cruise port guide – where you’ll feel like a true explorer rather than just another tourist. Mediterranean sailings might take you to Portoferraio on Elba, Bonifacio in Corsica, or hidden coves along the Turkish coast that only small ships can access.
The Star Clippers Fleet
Star Clipper
- Length: 360 feet
- Passenger capacity: 170
- Crew: 72
- Sails: 16
- Maiden voyage: 1992
- Primary region: Mediterranean and Caribbean
Star Clipper, the line’s first ship, remains a beloved favorite among sailing enthusiasts. This four-masted barquentine offers an intimate sailing experience with spacious outside cabins, most featuring portholes that actually open. The ship’s compact size allows access to secluded anchorages and small ports, while its classic design creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The deck space is generous for a ship this size, with plenty of room to relax and watch the crew work the sails.
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Star Flyer
- Length: 360 feet
- Passenger capacity: 170
- Crew: 72
- Sails: 16
- Maiden voyage: 1991
- Primary region: Mediterranean and Caribbean
Star Flyer, the sister ship to Star Clipper, shares virtually identical specifications but has developed its own distinct personality over decades of sailing. Known for its particularly friendly crew and relaxed atmosphere, Star Flyer attracts many repeat passengers who appreciate its consistent quality and intimate scale. The ship features the line’s signature Tropical Bar, where passengers gather each evening to share stories of the day’s adventures while enjoying creative cocktails.
Royal Clipper
- Length: 439 feet
- Passenger capacity: 227
- Crew: 106
- Sails: 42
- Maiden voyage: 2000
- Primary region: Mediterranean and Caribbean
- Special feature: Largest square-rigged sailing ship in service
Royal Clipper represents the crown jewel of the fleet and arguably the most magnificent sailing ship afloat today. This five-masted, fully-rigged ship carries an impressive 56,000 square feet of canvas and can achieve speeds up to 20 knots under sail alone. The ship features more luxurious amenities than her smaller sisters, including a small spa, underwater viewing lounge, and three swimming pools. Despite her larger size, Royal Clipper maintains the intimate atmosphere that defines the Star Clippers experience.
Flying Clipper
- Length: 518 feet
- Passenger capacity: 300
- Crew: 140
- Sails: 35
- Maiden voyage: 2017
- Primary region: Mediterranean and transatlantic
- Special feature: Most modern ship in the fleet
Flying Clipper represents Star Clippers’ evolution into the modern era while maintaining traditional sailing ship aesthetics. This five-masted square-rigger is the newest and largest ship in the fleet, featuring enhanced cabin amenities, expanded deck space, and improved stability systems. The ship incorporates sustainable technologies and modern safety features while preserving the authentic sailing experience that defines the brand. Her increased size allows for longer voyages and more diverse itineraries, including ambitious transatlantic crossings.
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Cabin Categories and Amenities
Star Clippers cabins prioritize comfort and authenticity over flashy amenities. Most cabins feature portholes rather than balconies – a reminder that you’re aboard a traditional sailing vessel. The accommodations range from cozy interior cabins to spacious deck suites, with Royal Clipper and Flying Clipper offering the most luxurious options. For detailed insights into making the best cabin choice, our cruise cabins guide provides valuable tips that apply to sailing ships as well.
Don’t expect mini-bars stocked with overpriced snacks or televisions blaring cruise advertisements. Instead, you’ll find thoughtfully designed spaces with ample storage, comfortable bedding, and efficient bathrooms. The focus remains on encouraging passengers to spend time on deck, participating in the sailing experience rather than hiding in their cabins.
Dining and Entertainment
Dining aboard Star Clippers ships reflects the relaxed, communal atmosphere of sailing. The main restaurant operates with open seating, encouraging passengers to mingle and share tables. The cuisine emphasizes fresh, local ingredients picked up in port, with menus that change based on the region and availability. Food enthusiasts will appreciate how this approach aligns with the principles explored in our culinary cruises guide.
Entertainment tends to be low-key and authentic. You might enjoy local musicians in Caribbean ports, participate in knot-tying lessons, or simply gather on deck for storytelling under the stars. The ships’ libraries are well-stocked with maritime literature and destination guides, perfect for those who prefer quiet contemplation to organized activities.
Who Should Choose Star Clippers
Star Clippers attracts a specific type of traveler: those who value authenticity over amenities, intimacy over entertainment, and adventure over luxury. The typical passenger tends to be well-traveled, curious about maritime history, and comfortable with a more unstructured vacation experience. This makes it an excellent choice for those exploring small ship cruising options.
Families with teenagers often enjoy Star Clippers, as the ships offer genuine adventure and learning opportunities. Our family cruises guide provides more insights into making the right choice for multi-generational travel. Couples seeking romantic getaways appreciate the intimate atmosphere and stunning sunsets under sail. Solo travelers find the communal dining and relaxed atmosphere perfect for making new friends, and our singles cruises guide offers additional perspectives on this type of travel.
However, Star Clippers isn’t ideal for everyone. Passengers expecting Vegas-style entertainment, extensive shopping, or constant organized activities might find the experience too quiet. Those with mobility issues should consider carefully, as tall ships require navigating stairs and potentially uneven decks.
Insider Tips and Secrets
Here’s what veteran Star Clippers passengers know: book a cabin on the leeward side if possible, as it tends to be more stable and cooler. The crew genuinely welcomes passenger participation in sailing operations, so don’t be shy about asking to help raise sails or take a turn at the wheel. Our comprehensive cruise ship tips and tricks guide offers additional strategies that can enhance your sailing experience.
Pack light and bring soft-sided luggage – cabin storage is efficient but compact. Include reef-safe sunscreen and a good hat, as shade can be limited on deck during sunny sailing days. Most importantly, bring a flexible attitude and prepare to disconnect from the hyperconnected world.
The best cabins often aren’t the most expensive ones. On Royal Clipper, category 6 cabins offer excellent value with portholes and comfortable accommodations. On the smaller ships, deck-level cabins provide easy access to all activities and the authentic sounds of sailing. For more money-saving strategies, check our guide on how to save money on your cruise.
Potential Challenges
Star Clippers isn’t without its challenges. The ships can experience more motion than large cruise ships, particularly during rough weather. While modern stabilization systems help, sensitive passengers should pack seasickness remedies and consider booking midship cabins.
The informal atmosphere, while charming, means service standards can vary. Don’t expect the precision of luxury cruise lines – instead, embrace the relaxed, yacht-like approach to hospitality. Additionally, itineraries may change based on weather conditions, as safety and optimal sailing conditions take precedence over rigid schedules.
Shopping and spa facilities are limited compared to mainstream cruise lines. The ships focus on sailing and destination experiences rather than onboard amenities, which some passengers might find restrictive.
Bonus Tips
The ship’s wake is perfect for dolphin watching – they enjoy playing in the waves created by sailing ships. Early morning deck time often provides the best wildlife viewing opportunities and spectacular sunrises.
Participate in the captain’s daily briefing to understand weather conditions and sailing plans. The officers are typically excellent storytellers with fascinating maritime knowledge to share.
Pack a small flashlight for evening deck walks, as lighting is kept minimal to preserve the nighttime sailing atmosphere. Don’t forget a light jacket for evening sailing – it can get surprisingly cool on deck even in tropical locations.
The crew often shares insider knowledge about upcoming ports, including recommendations for local restaurants and hidden gems that aren’t in guidebooks. Building relationships with crew members enhances the entire experience significantly.
Common Questions
Do the ships actually sail, or just use engines? Star Clippers ships genuinely sail whenever wind conditions permit, typically 60-80% of the time. Engines are used for maneuvering in ports and when wind conditions are insufficient.
Can passengers really help with sailing operations? Absolutely! Crew members welcome passenger participation in raising sails, taking the helm, and learning about navigation. However, participation is always voluntary and supervised.
What happens during rough weather? Captains prioritize safety and comfort, potentially altering course or using engines to minimize motion. The ships are designed to handle challenging conditions, but passenger comfort influences operational decisions.
Are gratuities expected, and how much? Gratuities are appreciated but not automatically added to bills. Most passengers tip approximately $10-15 per day total, distributed among cabin stewards, restaurant staff, and deck crew. For more detailed guidance, consult our tipping on your cruise holiday guide.
Can children participate in sailing activities? Children are welcome and often become the most enthusiastic participants in sailing operations. However, parents must supervise young children carefully around rigging and deck equipment.
Do cabins have air conditioning? Yes, all cabins feature individual climate control. However, many passengers find opening portholes provides wonderful natural ventilation while sailing.
Star Clippers offers something increasingly rare in our hyper-connected, over-scheduled world: the chance to slow down, reconnect with the rhythms of wind and sea, and experience travel as adventure rather than mere transportation. For those new to cruising, this represents a completely different approach to cruise travel. These magnificent ships remind us that the journey itself can be every bit as rewarding as the destination. In an age of mega-ships and manufactured experiences, Star Clippers dares to offer something authentic, intimate, and utterly unforgettable. The question isn’t how you can afford to sail with Star Clippers – it’s how you can afford to miss this extraordinary opportunity to rediscover the romance of the sea.
