Star Clippers

Swedish entrepreneur Mikael Krafft founded Star Clippers to revive the age of the great clipper ships, launching Star Flyer in 1991 and Star Clipper in 1992. The family-owned line, based in Monaco, followed with Royal Clipper in 2000, a five-masted, full-rigged ship modeled on the famous Preussen, and one of the largest square-rigged sailing ships in the world.

Star Flyer and Star Clipper are four-masted barquentines carrying around 170 guests each, and Royal Clipper carries around 230. Unlike motor-sail cruise ships, these are working sailing vessels: when the wind cooperates, engines go quiet and sails do the work, and the crew sets canvas to dramatic music at departure. Ships are small enough to anchor off tiny islands and slip into harbors larger ships can’t reach.

Winter seasons focus on the Caribbean, including the Grenadines and the Leeward and Windward Islands, while summer brings Mediterranean voyages along the coasts of Italy, France, Spain, Croatia and Greece. Transatlantic crossings under sail connect the two each spring and fall.

Star Clippers is relaxed, social and refreshingly unpretentious. Guests are an international mix, with many Europeans alongside North Americans, typically active adults in their 40s to 70s, plus sailing enthusiasts of all ages. Dress is casual, with shorts and boat shoes by day and resort casual in the evening; there are no formal nights. Highlights include climbing the mast to a lookout platform (with harness, when permitted), lounging in the netting over the bow, and the captain’s daily story time on navigation and sailing lore. Facilities are simple compared with cruise ships, and movement under sail is noticeable, so this is about the sea and the sails, not the amenities.

Meals are served in a single dining room with open seating. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style, often with themed spreads, and dinner is a multi-course menu. Food is international and generous rather than gourmet, with occasional barbecues on deck or ashore. Water, coffee and tea are included.

Entertainment is simple and sailing-focused: the captain’s story time, knot-tying lessons, crew talent shows, live music in the Tropical Bar and local performers in some ports. The sports team runs water sports from the beach or a platform, including snorkeling, kayaking and sailing small boats, with scuba diving offered on some itineraries for an added fee.

Children are welcome and some families sail during school holidays, but there are no regular kids clubs. Older kids who love the water and sailing tend to enjoy it most.

Cabins are compact, with nautical decor, wood paneling and private bathrooms. Most have portholes or windows, and Royal Clipper adds suites with private verandas and a few larger owner’s suites. Space is tight, as expected on a historic-style sailing ship.

Drinks are extra and billed to your account, with prices generally reasonable. Water, coffee and tea are included at meals.

Gratuities aren’t included. A suggested daily amount is provided, and tips are pooled and shared among the crew at the end of the voyage.