Romance the Wind - Star Clippers Star Clippers It’s about fresh air and sunshine, breathtaking vistas and 360-degree views and new cultures and delightful discoveries. It is unhurried and relaxing; the opposite of just getting from point A to point B. It is this magical experience of discovering the world and enjoying the special ambiance of an immaculately run ship that keeps me coming back again and again and drives the passion of folks in the cruise industry. And now for a new experience. Samuel Elliot Morison once wrote, “They flew across the oceans, white clouds of canvas billowed against the sky, set to catch every nuance of air”. I am sure he was talking about the gentle lapping of water against a wind driven hull and perhaps a pod of dolphins playing in the curling bow water. A salute to a favorable marriage, the wedding of a splendid cruise vacation with the romance of sailing aboard a true Tall Ship. It is this unique combination of sailing tradition and pampered vacationing that is the essence of Star Clippers. For within the setting of a magnificently evocative Tall Ship is a world for those who seek authentic sailing adventures without sacrificing creature comforts. Star Clippers graceful ships fly along the waves, just like the legendary clippers of a century and a-half ago. This is as much an adventure in highly evolved relaxation as it is in tradition. Although computers have not replaced the skilled hands of the crew in the art of raising sails, Star Clippers don’t expect their guests to become barefoot seamen. Star Clippers fleet consist of three beautiful vessels, Star Clipper, Star Flyer and their new flagship, Royal Clipper, the largest true full rigged sailing ship in the world today. Once on board these magnificent vessels you’ll feel the elation of those mariners of long ago as thousands of square feet of sail unfurl above you. The adventure has begun. With her complement of 42 sails, Royal Clipper is a splendid sight to behold. You might think she was an apparition from the grand age of sail, but Royal Clipper is as new as tomorrow, boasting state-of-the-art navigation systems and every comfort and luxury one could wish. For connoisseurs of sail cruising, the 439 foot Royal Clipper offers the ultimate sea-going experience, balancing the grandeur, adventure and tradition of sailing with the superb service, amenities and accommodations of the finest modern yacht.
Royal Clipper carries just 228 guests in luxurious style. A full 19,000 square feet of open deck and three swimming pools create a wonderfully spacious and expansive outdoor environment.
You can find your secret hideaway on one of the hidden balconies on either side of the bow, or climb the mast (with safety harness provided) to one of the passenger look out ‘crows’-nests, thoughtfully furnished with comfortable settee, where you will have the grandest view of all!
Royal Clipper’s interior spaces are just as dazzling. They include a 3-deck atrium that funnels sunlight into the elegantly appointed 3-level dining room, featuring open –seating dining, deliciously prepared cuisine and a no-tie dress code. A convenient marina platform lowers from the stern for water sports and diving. The ultimate unique one-of-a-kind Captain Nemo Lounge is the site of the spa and health club with underwater glass portholes! In addition a convivial indoor-outdoor Tropical Bar, and an Edwardian style library where a Belle Époque fireplace glows with warmth that reflects the friendliness and enthusiasm of Star Clipper’s hospitable officers and crew. Clearly this is not a cruise ship in the ordinary sense. On Star Clippers you will find there are no rigid schedules. You are free to do as you wish with your days – and evenings. To entertain, they bring local performers on board to give passengers an authentic taste of local music and arts. The Captain and crew are superb improvisers of the kind of light-hearted fun you’ll find only on Star Clippers. The Captain’s daily briefing on deck is wonderfully informative, and a chance to hear some great story- telling. Dining is wonderful. No need for formal gowns and black tie, casual elegance is the order of the day and every single night. Evening dining is in the elegantly appointed dining room which features a splendid collection of paintings of sailing ships that become the back drop for the chef’s finest culinary presentations, designed to please the eye and palette. If the day includes a stop at one of the paradisiacal islands, you might also be treated to a succulent outdoor barbecue on the beach. On Royal Clipper, 14 deluxe suites offer the ultimate in cruising comfort, with private verandah, whirlpool tub and 24-hour room service. All but 6 of her 98 cabins are outside, and for the ultimate indulgence, two 320 square foot owner’s suites may be combined to accommodate up to eight guests. Surrender to the serenity and let Star Clippers carry you through the Caribbean, the Far East or the Eastern and Western Mediterranean. Bon Voyage! Sid Kaplan Return from Star Clippers to Travel Resources
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Since the earliest days of sail, there has been something special about traveling by ship.
