Star Clippers: A Unique Sailing Experience for Adventure-Seeking Clients
For clients who love cruising but are seeking a more unique and intimate experience beyond mainstream cruise ships, Star Clippers offers a distinct and adventurous alternative. Travel advisor Gudrun Vest of Solé Travel, affiliated with Travel Society and Virtuoso, often recommends Star Clippers for those looking to explore the seas on smaller, yacht-like vessels with a hands-on sailing experience.
Star Clippers operates three sailing yachts: the twin 166-passenger, four-masted Star Flyer and Star Clipper, and the 227-passenger, five-masted Royal Clipper. These ships provide an exceptional blend of traditional sailing with modern amenities, making them perfect for clients who desire something truly different.
“We know everybody wants something different and unique these days,” Vest said. “They don’t want to go where everybody else is. So, it’s really not limited to any budget; it’s what that client wants.”
Vest recently sailed on the Star Flyer from Malaga, Spain, through the Balearic Islands, visiting destinations like Ibiza, Mallorca, and Minorca, before docking at Civitavecchia, the port for Rome. On this voyage, passengers had the opportunity to participate in sailing activities, including raising the sails, steering the ship, and even climbing the mast—experiences that set Star Clippers apart from conventional cruises.
“If you want to participate, you can,” Vest explained. “They might ask you to steer the ship. I think that’s really unique. And I don’t think that’s limited to budget people or luxury people. It depends on the person.”
For clients looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Star Clippers offers a variety of accommodations and onboard amenities to suit different preferences.
Accommodations
Built in 1991, the Star Flyer offers cozy, basic cabins that provide comfort with a touch of adventure. Vest stayed in a Category 3 Outside Cabin on the Commodore Deck, a 118-square-foot space on the lowest deck. The cabin featured a double bed, TV, and a bathroom with a shower and hairdryer. The porthole provided a unique view of the sea, adding to the charm of the experience.
Other accommodations range from 86-square-foot inside cabins with upper and lower berths to the 237-square-foot Owner’s Cabin, which includes a double bed, sitting area, minibar, and bathroom with a tub.
Dining and Public Areas
Mealtimes on Star Clippers are casual, with buffet-style breakfast and lunch, and a la carte dinner service. Guests can dine at any table with their companions, and attire is generally casual, though shorts are not permitted in the Dining Room during dinner.
Public areas on the Star Flyer include sunbathing spaces, two plunge pools, an outdoor bar, a library, and a piano lounge, offering guests a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the journey.
Star Clippers is ideal for clients seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure with the charm of traditional sailing and modern comforts. With its unique offerings, Star Clippers provides a memorable sailing experience that’s perfect for those looking to explore the seas in a truly distinctive way.