Visit the ABC Islands on board the Royal Clipper

12th January 2017

Throughout the winter season, Star Clippers operates a range of itineraries to the blissful islands of the Caribbean, with alternating 7-night round-trip itineraries out of Barbados. Selected itineraries will take passengers to the Windward Islands, while others embark on journeys around the Grenadine Islands.

The magnificent five-masted Royal Clipper offers a distinctively unique way in which to travel, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of travel. While other lines strive to offer modern amenities and contemporary features, Star Clippers stays true to the traditional era of tall ship sailing, which was particularly affluent during the 19th century.

Aside from the itineraries to the Windward and Grenadine Islands, the Royal Clipper will also embark on a 14-night cruise to the islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao – which are also collectively known as the ‘ABC Islands’. Despite being located many miles away from the Dutch mainland, these three Islands are all part of the Kingdom of Netherlands and this is reflected through the brightly-coloured architecture. This week, we take a closer look at each of these three islands and what you may be able to expect during a visit to each of them.

Oranjestad – Aruba

One thing that is synonymous about these Dutch islands is that they each offer a warm and tropical climate throughout the year. Situated just 15 miles north of Venezuela, this small island has a unique dialect and is home to a multitude of golden beaches. Many people visit the island of Aruba just to experience the beaches, which provide plenty of opportunities for snorkelling and parasailing. If you want to delve into the history of Aruba, be sure to head to the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum, which was built in 1798 to protect the island from pirates.

Kralendijk – Bonaire

Unlike Aruba and Willemstad, Bonaire is part of the country of the Netherlands and, therefore, its citizens are able to vote in elections that affect the Dutch government. Bonaire offers beautiful beaches and one of the finest spots in the Caribbean for diving. One of the most impressive sights of Bonaire, however, is undoubtedly the hundreds of pink flamingos which occupy the extensive salt flats. As well as flamingos, visitors can also expect to be able to see wild iguanas roaming the island.

Willemstad – Curacao

The colourful architecture of Curacao is one of the island’s most distinctive features and is synonymous with its Dutch heritage. Since 1634, the island’s capital, Willemstad, has continued to develop as a trading settlement and the architecture in the old town reflects Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese colonialism. It is this architecture which has led to Willemstad gaining UNESCO World Heritage status and which offers a glance into the island’s history as a Dutch overseas territory.

The 14-night Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao round-trip itinerary is set to depart out of Barbados on 25th March, 2017. With regular itineraries in the Caribbean, Cuba, and Far East Asia, it is easy to escape the January blues with Star Clippers. Get in touch with us today to find out more about the full range of itineraries available.

Join Star Clippers on an Exciting Journey in 2017

6th January 2017

Christmas may have passed and the dawning of the New Year brings with it a sense of uncontrollable melancholy. The good news is that the days are now gradually getting longer once again, but if you are longing for warmer temperatures and exotic adventures, Star Clippers may have the perfect solution.

Unlike other years, however, 2017 is a very special year for the tall ship line. In addition to regular itineraries to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Cuba and Far East Asia on board the line’s three ships, Star Clippers will also be adding new products to their portfolio. We take a look at the exciting new additions to Star Clippers that will be introduced over the course of the next year.

Flying Clipper

In 1992, the Star Clipper became the first tall vessel of its kind to be built for nearly 100 years. Along with sister ship, Star Flyer, the ships offered holidaymakers a chance to holiday on the seas without all the mod cons of contemporary cruising. These two vessels were joined, in 2000, by the impressive five-masted and fully rigged Royal Clipper – which was based on the 1902 German vessel Preussen.

In 2017, the fleet will celebrate the first new addition in 17 years with the arrival of the Flying Clipper, which is set to, upon launch; become the world’s largest square rigger in operation. Her design has been based on the 1911 vessel, France II, which was the largest commercial merchant sailing ship ever built. The Flying Clipper is set to launch towards the end of the year and, weighing in at 8,770 GRT and powered by a total of 35 sails.

Indonesia Itineraries

December marked the beginning of a new era for Star Clippers, with the beginning of brand new Far East Asia itineraries taking passengers to Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia. The success and popularity of these itineraries has led to the introduction of a new range of itineraries to the Indonesian islands.

Commencing in May 2017, these itineraries will see the Star Clipper embark on a series of 7, 10 and 11-night sailings to a range of gorgeous islands. Sailing out of Bali, these roundtrip cruises will take passengers to tranquil beaches, untouched paradises and national parks that are generally considered to be inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Guests on selected itineraries will even get the chance to visit Komodo Island – a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is the only place on earth where komodo dragons naturally reside.

For more information about the new range of cruises available in 2017, get in touch with us via one of the various channels available.

As seen on BBC’s Planet Earth II...

15th December 2016

2017 is certainly set to be an exciting year for Star Clippers, with new itineraries and a brand new vessel set to mark the beginning of a new era for the tall ship fleet. The five-masted Flying Clipper will enter service in late 2017, with a design that is reminiscent of the 1911 vessel ‘France II’, while the brand new Indonesia itineraries will commence in May 2017.

The traditional tall ship line is renowned for offering cruises that can take you to a range of smaller, lesser-known destinations that are generally inaccessible to larger vessels. The line’s new Indonesia itineraries will take you to some of the world’s untouched cultural and natural destinations – each of which will leave you truly speechless. As well as these, passengers will also be able to visit a range of stunning beach destinations where you will be able to experience paradise on earth.

One destination in particular, however, has caught public attention in recent weeks. The Komodo National Park, in Indonesia, is the only natural habitat on earth for komodo dragons, with approximately 5,700 of these giant lizards residing on the islands. Being the only place on earth where you can find these reptile creatures, the BBC and David Attenborough were keen to ensure they were featured on the successful documentary series ‘Planet Earth II’.

Situated between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores, the Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that marks the centre of the Indonesian archipelago and is made up of three main islands. Rinca, Padar and Komodo are all of volcanic origin and the national park has been identified as a global conservation priority area. The komodo dragons that reside on these islands are of great scientific interest, due to the fact that they are representative of the large lizard population that was once present across Indonesia and Australia. They can grow to an average of two to three metres in length.

Star Clippers eastbound Indonesia itineraries will provide the unique opportunity to visit this exclusive natural wonder. Arriving via a smaller boat the main village on Komodo Island, visitors will almost immediately be able to admire these impressive creatures. A hike around the island will provide an opportunity to see the komodo dragons in their most natural habitat. All hikers are accompanied by a local guide, each of which is equipped with a wooden stick which resembles a lizard’s tongue. This is carried to ensure aggressive komodo dragons – which are not normally aggressive towards people – are held back.

Sailing on board Star Clipper, these seven-night roundtrip itineraries out of Bali will offer a fabulous and unparalleled insight that you will never forget. And with itineraries commencing in May 2017, there is no better time to book.

Alternatively, Star Clippers are also operating Far East Asia itineraries throughout 2017, taking passengers to stunning destinations in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

Sail to the Malaysian islands with Star Clippers

8th December 2016

On the 2nd December 2016, Star Clippers embarked on the first of many new adventures in previously untouched waters. Sailing out of the Thai island of Phuket, the impressive Star Clipper tall ship will visit a range of stunning Far East Asia island destinations which are inaccessible to most modern cruise ships of the 21st century.

As well as a range of Thai islands, guests on board will also be able to experience the unique culture and heritage of a selection of Malaysian islands. Made up of 878 islands, the archipelago of Malaysia shares borders with Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south and also borders Brunei and Indonesia on the island of Borneo. While boasting a world-class and high-tech infrastructure, much of the indigenous culture of Malaysia has been maintained to this day and a visit can be highly rewarding. This week, we take a closer look at the three Malaysian destinations you can expect to be able to visit with Star Clippers.

Penang – Southern Itineraries

The island of Penang is referred to as “The Pearl of the Orient” and is situated off the north-west coast of mainland Malaysia. Its capital, Georgetown, is the second largest city in Malaysia and received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008. As the name suggests, this city maintains much of its British colonial past, with many noticeable buildings of significance including churches, squares and fortifications. Elsewhere on the island of Penang, you will find many beautiful beaches and many culinary opportunities, which will give you a chance to sample fantastic Malaysian cuisine.

Malacca – Sailings to Singapore

Along with Georgetown, Malacca was also granted UNESCO World Heritage Status for its colonial roots. Situated towards the southern regions of the Malaysian mainland, the city of Malacca was the centre of the spice trade and it was ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British at various points throughout history. This has led to an elegant mixture of brightly-coloured architectural structures in the form of palaces, temples, churches and much more.

Langkawi – Northern Itineraries

Situated in the Andaman Sea, 30km off the mainland coast of north-west Malaysia is the island of Langkawi. Also known as the ‘Jewel of Kedah’, this island is home to an array of beautiful beaches – each boasting golden sands and clear tropical waters. The surrounding waters not only present plenty of opportunities to relax, but also a number of swimming and diving opportunities. Elsewhere on the island, you can discover a wealth of natural features including forests and waterfalls. What’s more – the island also offers duty-free shopping, making it perfect for a spot of retail therapy.

Depending on which itinerary you choose to embark on will depend on which angle of Malaysia you see. However, this diverse and cultural nation does offer a number of fine beaches on almost every coastline – each of which provides the perfect location in which to relax and unwind. Star Clippers will be operating Asia itineraries throughout the winter until April 2017 before resuming in October 2017.

Discover the Delights of the Amalfi Coast

1st December 2016

When it comes to the Mediterranean, there are many beautiful destinations to choose from across a series of countries. Each landmark, village, town and city offers warm weather, charming locals, and a unique sense of culture that collectively enchants tourists into visiting year after year.

A cruise offers a great way in which to see and experience a variety of these destinations, but a Star Clippers cruise is truly outstanding. Not only will you be able to sail on a traditional tall ship, but - as a result of the ships being smaller than those belonging to other lines – you will also be able to visit a range of destinations that would otherwise be difficult to access.

The Amalfi Coast, on the western coast of Italy, is a real gem of the Mediterranean. Stretching a total distance of 50km along the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast offers spectacular views out to see as well as a distinctive fragrance of lemon groves. Star Clippers’ ‘Amalfi & Sicily’ itineraries provide the opportunity to visit this stunning region and, this week, we take a closer look at the highlights you can expect to enjoy.

Sorrento

Although Sorrento is often believed to be on the Amalfi coastline, it is actually located further north, facing out towards the city of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. That said, it should not be ignored by any means, as it is home to a wealth of beautiful architecture including the lemon terraces, the roman ruins of Villa Pollio, Duomo (Cathedral), St Francis Monastery, and the Basilica di Sant’Antonino.

Amalfi

As the name suggests, this is the heart of the magnificent Amalfi coastline and the town that helped this area rise to fame. Just sailing into the harbour of this town and admiring the dramatic cliffs will take your breath away. Settled by human communities since the Middle Ages, this picturesque destination gained UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1997. Relaxing by the harbour is a good way to get a feel for your surroundings and soak in the magnificent scenery, while the grand Duomo will give you an insight into the area’s medieval history. Alternatively, you can head further along the coast to Positano, which is widely regarded to be the most beautiful town in the Mediterranean.

Taormina, Sicily

The charming hillside town of Taormina is located on the east coast of the Italian island of Sicily. Perched on the side of Mount Etna, this coastal town provides stunning views out to sea while also providing a fascinating historical insight. The Teatro Greco is an impressive open-air amphitheatre, which was built by the Greeks and is thought to date back to the 3rd century BC.

Lipari

Lipari is the largest and most populated of the Aeolian Islands, which are situated just off the northern coast of Sicily. The Aeolian Islands are of volcanic origin, situated between Etna and Vesuvius. A short climb through the narrow streets of Lipari will take you to the medieval castello, where you will find a wonderfully secluded beach.

Although the western Mediterranean itineraries do not commence until April next year, there is no better time to start thinking about an Easter or summer escape. There are several 7-night roundtrip ‘Amalfi & Sicily’ itineraries departing out of Rome throughout 2017, with the first due to depart on 10th June 2017.

Celebrate Christmas on board a cruise with Star Clippers

24th November 2016

Christmas is unquestionably one of the most joyous times of the year – a time which sees families and friends come together in celebration. Unfortunately, one of the lesser finer elements of the festive period comes in the form of colder and temperatures and shorter days. Star Clippers can offer an ideal and tempting alternative.

The tall ship line will be operating a series of Christmas cruises throughout the winter period, taking passengers to some of the finest destinations in the Caribbean and across Far East Asia. Imagine spending Christmas day sunbathing on a warm white-sand beach with nothing but the sound of the gentle turquoise waters brushing the shore. This week, we take a closer look at the three options available that will enable you to celebrate Christmas in style.

Royal Clipper – BVI – Christmas – 17th December 2016
Caribbean – 10 Nights

The impressive five-masted Royal Clipper will embark on a 10-night roundtrip cruise out of Bridgetown, Barbados. After spending a day at sea and getting a feel for the ship, you will visit  Gustavia, on the island of St. Barts before heading to the British Virgin Islands. Of the 17 inhabited islands, you will get to visit three of the finest including the well-visited islands of Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, and Virgin Gorda; as well as the lesser known Normal Island – which is thought to have been a key factor in Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel ‘Treasure Island’. You will spend Christmas Day in Terre De Haut – one of the islands that make up the Iles des Saints – which is home to an array of unparalleled beaches.

Star Flyer – Christmas Sailing – 18th December 2016
Caribbean – 9 Nights

Sailing out of Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on the 18th December, this 9-night Caribbean itinerary will take you to a range of stunning destinations. Much like the Royal Clipper’s itinerary, she will sail to the British Virgin Islands and there will even a point where to the two ships come together, on the 22nd December. Guests sailing on this itinerary will be able to spend Christmas Day in Charlestown, the capital of Nevis. This tiny island is truly mesmerising in terms of its natural beauty and is almost completely untouched and it's fascinating to think that there weren’t even any roads here until 1951.

Star Clipper – Christmas Sailing – 23rd December 2016
Far East Asia - 7 Nights

Rather than heading west, why not consider heading to the Far East this winter? Star Clippers brand new Asia itineraries commenced earlier this year and can take you to some of the finest beach destinations Thailand and Malaysia have to offer. Sailing out of Phuket, guests will embark on a 7-night sailing to a series of gorgeous, untouched and peaceful beach destinations. You will spend Christmas Day on the Thai island of Ko Hong, which is surrounded by towering monolithic rocks providing ample shade on this gorgeous white-sand beach. Additionally, this cruise can also take you to the bustling metropolis of Singapore – a fascinating city of culture, gardens, and fantastic food.

If you fancy a change of scenery this Christmas, Star Clippers’ festive itineraries are a perfect choice. Additionally, the tall ship line will also be operating itineraries throughout the new year, providing the opportunity to see in the beginning of 2017 in style.

The clipper ships that defined an era

10th November 2016

Up until recently, when Mikael Krafft realised his dream, clipper ships represented a bygone era of worldwide exploration. Sailors from across the empires of Europe would embark upon journeys on board magnificent vessels in search of products such as spices, tea, opium, and gold.

Clipper ships were built in vast quantities and became faster and larger in size as time progressed. That said - there is no specific definition of a clipper ship, although Alan Villiers, a renowned author, and mariner described them as such: “To sailors, three things made a ship a clipper. She must be sharp-lined, built for speed. She must be tall-sparred and carry the utmost spread of canvas. And she must use that sail, day and night, fair weather and foul.”

One theory suggests these merchant ships got their name from the famous mechanic and shipbuilder Donald McKay, who built a number of vessels on Clipper Lane in East Boston, Massachusetts. It is possible, however, that the name derives from the verb “clip”, which once meant to “run or fly swiftly” and was synonymous with speed. This was the name applied to topsail schooners – otherwise known as the Baltimore clippers – which reached their peak between 1795 and 1815, although it is not clear whether this name was given much later after their prominence.

The original clipper ship is generally considered to be a ship known as Ann McKim, which was built in Baltimore in 1833. She was built by the Kennard & Williamson shipyard and was a truly unique vessel at the time of launch. However, she is not regarded as the founding vessel of the clipper ship era, and it is instead believed that the clipper ship design was based on Ann McKim. It is thought that Ann McKim may have influenced the 1845 vessel, Rainbow, which was regarded as the first extreme clipper vessel.

Weighing in at 757 tons, Rainbow was a large American vessel which had been designed with speed in mind over cargo. A lengthened bow above the water and a sharpened forward body were contributors to speed. However, as magnificent as this vessel was, she was impractical for cargo purposes and by 1854; extreme clippers had been replaced by medium clippers across American shipbuilding yards.

As previously mentioned, Donald McKay was a pioneer in terms of building clipper ships and he built one of the most famous vessels to sail the seas. The Flying Cloud was a distinctive vessel for a number of reasons, most notably, for setting the world’s sailing record for the fastest passage between New York and San Francisco – completing the journey in 89 days and 8 hours. This record was held for over 100 years – from 1854 to 1989. She was also known for sailing in the Australia timber trades and for featuring a female navigator.

Clipper ships largely ceased being constructed in the 1860’s, but the British continued to build clippers through to 1870 in a bid to supply the demand for tea from China. It is thought that 25 – 30 of these vessels were built, with an average of 4-5 vessels being built per year.

In 1869, the opening of the Suez Canal created an easier link between Europe and Asia and ultimately led to the collapse of clipper ships. The Suez Canal greatly benefitted steam vessels, as sailing ships struggled to navigate this unique waterway and by the end of the 19th century, most ships sailing the seas were powered by steam. One of the only survivors of this unique era of sailing was the Cutty Sark, which sits gracefully on display in London to this day.

It wasn’t until much later that travellers saw sailing as a means of pleasure, with the slow introduction of cruising opportunities. With this, Mikael Krafft had a dream to recreate the clipper era of sailing and, in 1992, he succeeded by introducing the four-masted Star Flyer and Star Clipper barquentine vessels to the world. These were followed by the magnificent five-masted Royal Clipper – which has been listed by the Guinness World Records as being the largest square-rigged ship in service.

Towards the end of 2017, the Star Clippers fleet will be bolstered once again by the introduction of the fleet’s largest vessel and the first to be built for 15 years. Modelled on France II, this five-masted vessel will carry 300 passengers and 140 crew members.

Explore Turkish Delights in 2017

3rd November 2016

Although the start of November marks the end of the Star Clippers 2016 Mediterranean season, there is no reason to be downbeat. Earlier this month, the traditional tall ship line announced new Eastern Mediterranean itineraries that can take passengers to the Northern and Southern Cyclades. This island group is situated between the southeast coast of Greece and the western coast of Turkey. Over the course of seven nights, passengers will be able to get a taste for the Greek capital before visiting these gorgeous Greek islands.

In addition to the Cyclades Islands, guests will also be able to visit some of Turkey’s most impressive cities, towns, and landmarks. Both Northern and Southern Cyclades itineraries offer this opportunity, with the chance to explore locations outside of the major cities. Star Clippers takes a closer look at the destinations you can visit on each respective itinerary.

Northern Cyclades

Kusadasi

The resort town of Kusadasi is located on Turkey’s Aegean coast and is one of the most popular beach destinations in Turkey. The hotels, restaurants and bars here indicate just how popular this destination is among tourists and holiday makers from across Turkey and beyond. A short stroll away from the beaches, however, will enable you to enjoy the history of this area. Kusadasi was once a walled city and one of the three gates remains standing today. There is also the Kaleici Camii mosque, which was built in 1618.

Ephesus

While Kusadasi is a beautiful place to relax in itself, it also provides an opportunity to travel to the archaeological site of Ephesus. Extensive archaeological work has led to the discovery of an ancient city, which was built in the 10th century BC. The city peaked after it came under the control of the Roman Republic in 129BC and was home to between 33,000 and 56,000 people. It is most famous, however, for the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It is thought to have been destroyed in the 268AD after a raid by the Goths, but its ruins remain standing to this day.

Southern Cyclades

Bodrum

Situated at the site of the ancient city of Halikarnassus is the city of Bodrum, which boasts an impressive marina. Much like Kusadasi, it offers a series of long and inviting golden beaches, which are perfect for soaking up the sun. It is also thought to be the site of another of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, the Mausoleum of Halikarnassus – although it was completely destroyed by earthquakes during the Middle Ages. Bodrum is, however, home to many other historic landmarks worth visiting including a castle, amphitheatre, and windmills.

Dalyan River

The glistening waters of the Dalyan may serve as a contrast to the places already visited while in Turkey. These waters are teeming with fish and this tranquil setting offers a sense of relaxation until you look up into cliffs. A series of rock-cut Lycian tombs dating back to 400BC overlook the river and will leave you totally mesmerised. You will also be able to see the ruined Lycian city of Caunos, where the basilica and fortifications overlook the place where endangered Caretta loggerhead turtles hatch during the spring.

With the colder months beginning to settle in, there is no better time to start thinking about a holiday to the Mediterranean in 2017. Alternatively, if you can’t wait that long, Star Clippers will be operating Caribbean, Cuba, and brand new Far East Asia sailings throughout the winter season.

Introducing Star Clippers Indonesia Itineraries

13th October 2016

With itineraries currently being operated in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, 2017 marks the start of a new beginning for Star Clippers. From May next year, passengers will be able to experience the elegance of tall ship sailing during Indonesia cruises. Sailing out of Bali, passengers will sail to a number of gorgeous islands and untouched beach paradises that are inaccessible to larger vessels. We take a closer look at just some of the fascinating destinations that guests will be able to experience while sailing on board the beautiful Star Clipper.

Java

One of the first ports of call is Java - Indonesia’s fifth-largest island and home to around 130 million people. It is also home to a large number of fascinating geological and geographical features including 121 volcanoes, national parks, rainforests, and tea and rice plantations. Undoubtedly, one of the island’s most iconic landmarks is Mount Bromo – a 2,329-metre volcano which forms part of the Tengger Semeru National Park and offers unparalleled natural beauty. A hiking tour up the side of the mountain and around the 6-mile wide inner caldera will take your breath away.

Komodo National Park

Situated on the island of Komodo, a visit to this national park will undoubtedly be the standout highlight of any Indonesia itinerary. The park was founded in 1980 with the aim of preserving the unique Komodo dragon and its natural habitat. Today, these dragons, which bare resemblance to the dinosaurs, dominate the island. They can grow up the three metres in length and weigh as much as 150kg, and despite their fearsome appearance, they are patient predators. Passengers on board this cruise will have the option to embark on a short or medium trail in the company of professionally-trained park ranger.

Gili Islands

A series of minuscule islands make up the Gilis, which offer powdery white sand beaches which are lined with coconut palms, brushed by turquoise blue waters, and surrounded by coral reefs. These corals make for fabulous snorkelling and will certainly leave you with many happy memories. Many of these islands are uninhabited and there is no public transport. The islands are only a few kilometres in diameter, however, and offer a secluded atmosphere.

Gilgenteng

To the south of Madura lies a small island known as Gilgenteng – which is home to a community of four fishing villages. Situated in an unbelievably tranquil spot, this village is covered by a barrier of mangrove and is home to a plethora of wildlife and marine species. There are no tourist facilities on the island, which further adds to the sense of authenticity and cultural insight. The Gilliteng beach is one of the finest in Indonesia and the untouched nature of the island makes it all the more special.

Sumba

Located between the islands of Bali and Timor; Sumba is a mysterious and curious island that has escaped Hindu, Muslim, and Christian influence, therefore remaining culturally intact. Many villages are dotted across the island and the people of these settlements still follow Marapu – the indigenous ancestral form of worship.

There is a real sense that this island has been locked in time, with many of the locals having never met anyone from the western world. A visit to the village of Ratenggaro will cement this idea and visitors are often humbled by the sheer resourcefulness and welcoming nature of the locals. Be sure to head down to the beach and admire the view of the ocean, which is largely untouched.

Sumbawa

Sadly, in 1815, a volcanic eruption completely destroyed the island of Sumbawa. Since the mid-19th century, immigrants came from other neighbouring islands and repopulated the area, which today relies on fishing and farming to get by. In the northern tip of the island lies the village of Wera – which has a unique boat-building heritage. Here, the Buginese people have passed their knowledge down through the generations and today, this is one of the only places on earth where boats are built entirely out of wood – without the use of mechanical tools or metal apart from the keel.

With the first cruise set to depart out of Singapore on May 6th, 2017, there is no better time to start thinking about booking an authentic Indonesian adventure with Star Clippers. If you are seeking a winter escape, you will be glad to know that Star Clippers will also be introducing a range of Far East Asia cruises along the coast of Thailand from December 2016.

Experience the Islands of Croatia with Star Clippers

29th September 2016

As a result of their smaller size, Star Clippers' vessels are able to dock in and access a series of hidden beaches, tucked-away coves and tiny island paradises that are generally inaccessible to larger vessels. And experiencing each of these wonderful destinations from the comfort of a traditional tall ship is a totally unparalleled experience. Feel the power of the air and the wind gently fills the sails that enable you to glide from one spectacular destination to the next.

Without question, the Adriatic Sea is one of the most beautiful regions in which to embark on a cruise. A cruise here will enable you to visit delights including Venice, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Athens, and many more stunning destinations. With Star Clippers, you can also visit some of Croatia’s small islands, which are situated just off the expansive coastline. Star Clippers takes a closer look at some of these small islands which you may have never heard of but are sure to leave lasting memories.

Korcula

The island of Korcula is located close to the renowned Croatian city of Dubrovnik. Red-tiled roofs and dense green forests of allepo pine and twisted cypress set the scene, while the pale-white-stone architecture tells a story of its own. The 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance style Cathedral of St. Mark is one of Dalmatia’s treasure troves. It is also worth noting that a number of sources claim the famous explorer, Marco Polo, was born on the island.

Mali Losinj

As you arrive at the island of Losinj, you will dock on the warm sands of Cikat Bay, near the town of Mali Losinj - and it is instantly easy to see why this destination is irresistible for beachgoers. This 30km stretch of beach extends as far as the eye can see and is the perfect place at which to participate in water sports. If you fancy travelling into Mali Losinj, you will be greeted by a beautiful natural harbour and a charming Mediterranean town surrounded by lush green hills. Alternatively, you can embark on an optional cycle tour around the island of Losinj, visiting the fortified town of Veli Losinj along the way.

Hvar

One thing that is instantly recognisable about Hvar is the distinctive aroma of lavender which perfumes the air in the fields and valleys around this unique island. Lavender fields, fruit orchards, olive groves, and vineyards dominate this mesmerising island which has been a popular destination since the time of the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarian royalty. Its town square is arguably the most impressive in all of Croatia, measuring a total of 4,500 square metres. A short uphill walk will take you to the fortress and provide you with mesmerising views over the city’s architecture, artistic features, and scenery.

The islands of Croatia are truly beautiful, but the real beauty comes from being able to visit them while enjoying the comfort of a traditional Star Clippers tall ship. The three-masted Star Clipper and Star Flyer and the five-masted Royal Clipper provide the perfect setting on board which to explore the Eastern and Western Mediterranean and far-flung destinations in the Caribbean and Far East Asia.

Delicious Dining Options with Star Clippers

15th September 2016

The beauty of Star Clippers is being able to appreciate the elegance of traditional tall ship sailing while exploring a number of untouched destinations. While this is a traditional sailing experience, it doesn’t mean that modern facilities and amenities are missing from the fleet. All three vessels feature elegant dining rooms that really do offer the perfect setting in which to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Each ship also offers a number of bars throughout the ship, offering a fine selection of drinks and snacks throughout the day.

You will almost certainly appreciate a good meal to start and end each day on board and, this week, we take a closer look at some of the offerings available on all Star Clippers sailing vessels.

Breakfast – Served from 8am to 10am

All main meals are served in the main dining room of the ship, and the variety on offer at breakfast is certain to get your day off to a great start. Fruit, yoghurt, cereals, meats, cheeses, and fresh fruit juices are all available in buffet style along with omelettes, which are prepared fresh at the egg and omelette station. Tea and coffee are also served once you have taken your seats.

Lunch – Served from midday to 2pm

Lunch offers a variety of themed dishes based on French, Italian and Asian cuisine; along with seafood, a series of meats, cheeses and breads. Guests can also enjoy fresh meats such as lamb, turkey, suckling pig, and salmon from the carving station; and there is also a fresh pasta station. If you’re still hungry after that, there are cakes and fresh fruit available for dessert. Complimentary water and iced tea are served at the table.

Dinner – Served from 7:30pm to 10pm

Dining is not a fixed sitting occasion and, upon arrival, your maitre d’ will seat you together or wherever a spot may be free. Each night, guests can enjoy a delicious meal from a menu with a selection of starters, soups, salads, main courses (one vegetarian and one local speciality), and desserts to choose from. If nothing takes your fancy, you can order pasta, consommé, or steak and fries – which are on the “Always Available” menu. Each week, there is also the five-course Captain’s gala dinner, featuring lobster as a main course option and rounding off with the baked alaska dessert, which is paraded around the room.

Bars

There are two bars available on each ship, both of which will offer a range of fresh food that you won’t find anywhere else on board. The Piano Bar offers a small selection of pastries, juices, and spreads from 6:30am to 10:30am along with a self-service tea and coffee station, which is located at the end of the bar.

The Tropical Bar offers a highly anticipated 5pm snack, which is often available by the time you return from a day on shore. At this time, you will find cookies, finger sandwiches, fruit, quiches, waffles, and chicken fingers. Return to the Tropical Bar at midnight for a late-night snack offering, which usually comprises of a meat dish such as chicken fingers, calamari, or meatballs. Once a week, the Tropical Bar also plays host to a barbeque, where the ship’s staff serve grilled burgers, hot dogs, chicken, fish, and even a roasted suckling pig.

In addition to these bars, the Royal Clipper also offers room service to occupants in the two Owner’s Suites and 14 Deluxe Suites, providing the opportunity to dine in the privacy of your cabin.

Wherever you decide to travel, you will be able to rest safe in the knowledge that you will be well looked after during your time on board. Sailing on board the Star Clipper, Star Flyer or Royal Clipper is a joy to behold and the experience is unlike anything else available in the world of cruising.

How Mikael Krafft’s dream became a reality

22nd September 2016

The cruising industry in the 21st century offers a multitude of options, with huge vessels boasting the modern amenities and facilities. Sometimes, however, it is worth taking a step back in time to appreciate how different things were. This was Mikael Krafft’s philosophy and his dream was to bring traditional tall ship sailing into the 21st century. Star Clippers takes a closer look at the life and inspiration of Mikael Krafft and how his passion influenced him.

In 1946, Mikael Krafft was born in Stockholm, Sweden, and was fortunate enough to grow up just around the corner from one of the finest yacht builders in the world. The Plyms Shipyard intrigued Mikael and ultimately led to the start of his passion for sailing. At just six years old, he was able to secure a job at the shipyard and, while carrying varnish and mixing wood stain, he learnt about Pommern, a four-masted steel barquentine which was docked at the Swedish-Finnish island of Aland. At a time when steam-powered vessels dominated the seas, it was at this point that Mikael was inspired by the world of traditional sailing vessels.

His excitement reached new heights at the age of ten when his father presented him with an 18-foot wooden sailboat. It wasn’t long after that that Mikael embarked on a series of 20-mile journeys across the open sea, without a compass and unknown to his parents, simply to visit the masterpiece that was Pommern. One day, not content with merely looking at the ship, a 12-year-old Mikael climbed up the rigging without permission and was caught by a guard.

The guard yelled: “Come on down!!! If you don’t, you’ll fall down and kill yourself. But I’ll kill you anyway when you come down.” Luckily, he survived to tell this tale and dreamed of one day owning such a vessel of his own.

Mikael Krafft later graduated from the University of Stockholm with a degree in Maritime Law, before practicing law in France and Sweden. In the 1970’s, he was appointed as manager of L. Jeansson Co., a small Swedish shipping company founded in 1875. Under Krafft, the company expanded into oil storage, forestry, sawmills, finance/leasing, and real estate – which he pursued further upon moving to Brussels with his family in 1986. He sold his interests in Sweden and founded the White Star Group of Belgium, which focussed on real estate developments in the Benelux countries.

The dream seemed all but over. Yet, Krafft never did let go of his passion for sailing. While sailing in the Caribbean on board his own sailing yacht, Gloria, in 1987, he claims all the pieces came together. The sailing trips he embarked on in his youth, his knowledge of traditional sailing vessels, and the ventures on board his personal yachts all inspired him and kept the dream alive.

Along with the assistance of White Star Group, he established a new line known as Star Clippers. He conducted intense clipper ship research for three years - meticulously studying preserved original plans for mid-19th-century ships. Krafft was also aware that these ships would have to comply with modern regulations and, therefore, modifications had to be made. With the help of a trusted team of experienced architects and engineers, plans for the first new clipper ship in 90 years were successfully drawn up.

The result was Star Flyer, which launched in 1991 and was followed, in 1992, by sister ship Star Clipper. Krafft embarked on an even bigger challenge in the years the followed, with dreams of building a five-masted fully rigged tall ship, similar to that of the 1902 German vessel, Preussen. The almighty Royal Clipper launched in 2,000 and currently holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest square-rigged ship in service.

Mikael Krafft’s ambitions have not stopped there. In 2017, Star Clippers will launch a brand new five-masted vessel, which will bear resemblance to France II – the second largest commercial merchant sailing ship ever built. The Flying Clipper will become the largest square rigger and the largest ship of its kind afloat on the seas. It will offer traditional tall ship sailing, while also offering guests a range of modern amenities and facilities.

Today, Star Clippers offers an elegant nod to a bygone era of traditional tall ship sailing. Passengers can experience this unique way of travelling while experiencing a range of beautiful destinations in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Far East Asia.