The Origins of Star Clippers

1st October 2015

Before the launch of Star Clippers' Star Flyer, no transatlantic tall sailing ship had been built for almost 100 years. Upon launch in 1991, the Star Flyer revolutionised the cruise industry – whilst at the same time allowing passengers to step into a bygone era of sailing. Sister ship, Star Clipper, followed a year later and the five-masted full-rigger Royal Clipper launched in 2000. Royal Clipper is the first ship of its kind to be launched since Preussen, which launched in 1902.

Today, intrepid holiday-makers seeking a cruise unlike any other can discover a world of tall ship sailing, exploring a range of exotic destinations along the way. What inspired it all? Last week we looked at the childhood inspiration of Mikael Krafft and this week, we take a closer look at how the inspiration became reality.

Serendipity

Defined: “the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.” This is a phrase that could certainly be used when trying to sum up the life of Star Clippers founder Mikael Krafft. It was off the coast of St Martin whilst on board his personal yacht, Gloria, that Krafft has his epiphany. As the tropical sun began to set, all of these events and thoughts suddenly pieced together.

The pieces were:

• The independent sailing trips in his youth among the 28,000 islands that make up Sweden

• His single-handed sailing trip to Aland in 1958 (situated between Sweden and Finland)
• His expansive knowledge of the most beautiful and speediest ships built throughout the 19th century
• His cruises onboard his own personal yachts

It was these memories and events that collectively led Mikael Krafft building his first vessel. “I decided to build a genuine large sailing ship, with the wind as the most important source of power. No one had done that for almost a hundred years. The ship should resemble old clippers in hull but with a stern like my Gloria, yet be designed to accommodate some 150 guests. In my new clipper, I wanted to include all the romance of sail and style that you find in a large sailing yacht, such as those I have been lucky enough to sail.”

Over the last 100 years, many safety rules and regulations have been imposed within the world of maritime as a whole. “First and foremost it was a question of adjusting a genuine sailing ship to all modern security regulations. No ship like the Star Flyer had been built for almost 100 years, and that was before the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. That frightful accident led to changes in all rules concerning stability and a great many other things.”

The exploration into a bygone of era is due to expand, following the announcement of a new ship to join the Star Clippers fleet. A brand new ship based on the five-masted France II, which launched in 1912 and gracefully sailed the seas. Star Clippers have also announced a new range of itineraries in Far East Asia, which are set to debut in late 2016.

Whilst other cruise lines are competing to create large-scale ships with the most modern amenities, finest restaurants and luxurious staterooms – Star Clippers provides a nod to the past. Sail onboard a traditional tall ship and explore new destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, Caribbean, and around Cuba.

Mikael Krafft and the Cinemiracle

24th September 2015

Trying to imagine how the world of cruising would evolve before the present day in the 1940’s would certainly have proven a difficult task. Who would have thought that cruise ships of today could take you on journeys around the world and offer amenities such as climbing walls, swimming pools, multiple restaurants and luxurious staterooms? One man, Mikael Krafft, born in 1946, fell in love with the world of sailing at a young age.

His childhood love for sailing has remained with him his whole life and today, he is the owner and president of Star Clippers. Whilst other cruise lines strive to offer the most modern and futuristic facilities, Mikael Krafft has provided people with the opportunity to sail on traditional tall ships to stunning destinations in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. This week, we take a closer look at the inspiration behind Mikael Krafft and Star Clippers.

Cinemiracle

It is not known who, in 1958, invented the wonder that was the Cinemiracle, but it had a significant impact on Mikael Krafft. The Cinemiracle was the composition of a 100 by 40 foot curved screen with three cameras – each of which would project onto the screen simultaneously. Rather than unravelling an extensive plot, the main feature of the film was the Christian Radich full-rigged ship. The footage would play to the music of the Boston Pops Orchestra, where string and brass instruments would bring the footage to life.

Mikael Krafft recalls his reaction to seeing the film for the first time, at 12 years old. "The first 15 minutes were shown in the usual format and in black-and-white. Then, the screen suddenly widened, the ship put to sea and set sails and the strings and brass of the Boston Pop Orchestra filled the theatre."

Sailing

Around the same time as Cinemiracle, a young Mikael Krafft sailed to the Åland Islands, a small series of Swedish islands sat between Sweden and Finland. He sailed to Åland with the hope of being able to witness Pommern, once a famous four master barque German sailing ship and now a museum in the town or Mariehamn.

Not content with being able to witness this spectacular ship, the 12 year old Mikael Krafft climbed up the rigging of the display ship without permission. Little did his parents know that, by this point, Krafft would regularly take his little wooden sailing boat and sail 70 nautical miles, 23 of which were in open sea. Upon being noticed, 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." Sufficed to say, Mikael Krafft survived and that marked the beginning of his inspiration for Star Clippers.

The tall ship sailing legacy continues to this very day and you can experience it all for yourself with Star Clippers. Sailing on board the Royal Clipper, Star Clipper or Star Flyer, you can experience the beauty of tall ship sailing whilst experiencing beautiful destinations in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and, as of late 2016, Asia.

Add Asian Fusion to your Winter break - Southbound Itineraries

17th September 2015

Star Clippers’ announcement that they will be returning to Asia couldn't be more welcome. With its beautiful scenery, extraordinary wildlife, and unique mix of urban living and natural beauty there’s plenty to explore. Allow us to guide you through some of the scenic delights of this wonderful country all of which you can explore on our 2016 cruise.

Phuket, Patong Bay, Thailand

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island is in the Andaman Sea and is joined to the mainland by a causeway. With its rolling green hills, tranquil beaches littered with coconut groves and plantation; guests can explore the lively restaurants and bars or revel in the natural beauty and unspoiled landscapes.

Ko Butang, Ko Adang, Thailand

Nature lovers can discover the crystal clear sea inhabited with wildlife, or simply admire the towering rock formations and blissful beaches of Ko Butang.

Penang, Malaysia

Known as “The Pearl of Asia”, Penang is home to one of the longest bridges in the world. With a mixture of foreign influences, the capital Georgetown boats a 65 storey skyscraper, a wealth of department stores, restaurants, bars and theatres for the guest who’s always on the go. For the more relaxed traveller this beautiful island is home to the wonderfully zen Buddhist Temple, Kek Lok Si.

Ko Rok Nok, Thailand

Practically unspoiled, Ko Rok Nok is one of 15 islands and a protected National Park. Host to an array of wildlife, both onshore and offshore, guests may find themselves coming face to face with lizards, birds, monoray eels, sea turtles and maybe even a black tip shark!

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga’s sheer sided mountains and emerald green waters make it one of Thailand’s most popular destinations for spectacular scenery. With white sandy beaches and colourful coral reefs, Phang Nga is a spectacular visual treat.

Ko Hong

Ko Hong is merely a speck compared to the previous destinations, but its anonymity shouldn’t be a deterrent as it’s one of the few islands that escapes high tourist traffic. Its large lagoon and wonderfully white sand makes it a truly relaxing destination.

Similan Islands

Accessible only by sea, the Similan Islands are an underwater treasure trove for diving enthusiasts. With some of the most breath-taking coral reefs and schools of marine life, it’s an aquatic adventure for any diver. However, if dry land is more appealing, the island’s picturesque( but often deserted) perfect white shore is scattered with magnificent boulders, home to exotic wildlife and features a blanket of dark green forestry.

To find out how you can explore Asia, contact Star Clippers and start planning your trip of a lifetime.

Experience Singapore and Phuket

3rd September 2015

Star Clippers have been renowned for delivering fantastic tall-ship sailing experiences in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and around Cuba and the Panama Canal. The three ships, Royal Clipper, Star Flyer and Star Clipper, provide a fine blend of traditional sailing experiences with contemporary amenities and facilities. From December 2016, Star Clippers will operate a range of itineraries around Asia, stopping at a number of exciting destinations in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

Asia is home to some of the world’s most popular international holiday destinations, such as the vibrant bright lights of Singapore and glistening golden beaches of Phuket Thailand. These are two destinations you will be able to visit with selected Star Clippers Asia itineraries and, this week, we take a closer look at what to expect from these stunning destinations.

Singapore

Some of the Star Clippers Asia itineraries will start in Singapore, whilst others will conclude in this small nation. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with tall skyscrapers and city lights, but there is much to explore within these bustling streets. Singapore is one of the only nations to ever gain independence against its will, having been expelled from the Malaysian Federation. Since 1965, the country developed its own sense of culture, with many works of contemporary art and fantastic food to be enjoyed. Be sure to try the traditional Singapore Laksa, a coconut-based soup with noodles, spices and garnished with seafood or meat. If you enjoy shopping, Orchard Road will become one of your new favourite destinations, with shops selling everything from ancient antiques to vibrant spices.

If the city streets become too much and you fancy something a little more peaceful, there are plenty of options. Singapore was once part of the British Empire, and there are many features which provide a nod to this bygone era. Visit the Victorian botanic garden and wander around a range of beautiful lakes, animals and plants that’ll lead you to believe you’re still in the UK. Other quintessentially British features include the Padang Cricket Ground.

Phuket – Thailand

Upon arrival in Phuket, you’ll notice a huge contrast between Thailand’s largest island and the bustling cosmopolitan nation that is Singapore. Situated within the Andaman Sea, a small causeway connects this popular Thai beach paradise island with the mainland. Having once enjoyed a period of trade within the rubber and tin industries, Phuket’s tourism has led to it becoming the wealthiest province in Thailand. Phuket is renowned for the quality of its golden beaches, which provide a perfect destination for activities such as diving, windsurfing, snorkelling and jet-skiing – all of which you’ll have the opportunity to do during your Star Clippers cruise.

If you’d rather explore everything Phuket has to offer and appreciate the Thai culture, there are plenty of options. The Chalong Temple provides an insight into the island’s monks, who historically helped the local people during the Chinese rebellion. There is a large marble Buddha on the top of Naka Kerd Mountain, where a trip to the top will also provide fantastic panoramic views over Phuket. Be sure to also explore the island’s natural features, such as the mesmerising waterfalls; the largest in the whole of Thailand.

The new range of Star Clippers Asia itineraries begin in December 2016, following a Suez Canal transit cruise, taking passengers from Athens to Safaga, Egypt. Whether you’re excited about Asia cruise itineraries or would prefer a cruise in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, the Star Clippers tall-ship sailing experience is one you will never forget.

Insight into Water Sports with Star Clippers

27th August 2015

The Gargantuan cruise ships of the 21st century can offer amenities such as climbing walls, bumper cars, extensive spas and glitzy restaurants. Thousands of passengers will battle against each other to use the same facilities, but you won’t find this issue on board any of the three Star Clippers ships. Facilities such as those previously stated are not present on board a Star Clippers vessel. Instead, all that’s left to do is admire the beauty of the sea as your tall sailing ship gracefully carries you from one destination to the next.

Part of appreciating everything the seas of the world have to offer is being able to swim around and dive into their depths; and that’s exactly one of the advantages Star Clipper ships can offer. As a result of their small size, Star Clippers ships are able to sail into smaller, more intimate ports. At these ports, guests will be able to take full advantage of a range of exciting water sports equipment.

At selected destinations on each itinerary, a hidden feature of the Royal Clipper springs into action. A marina platform lowers under the ship’s stem, allowing passengers to use a wide range of water sports equipment from wind surfs to banana boats. Sister ships, Star Clipper and Star Flyer, offer a range of similar activities either from the tender service or on-shore.

Complimentary activities include sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, water-skiing, wake boarding and snorkelling; and guests can also enjoy a banana boat ride or simply relax in the sun as your float around on a lilo. For a small fee, guests also have the option to complete diving certification classes and there are a range of diving trips on offer.

Considering the extent of the marine life visible, particularly in the Caribbean, these water sports could form one of the best parts of your cruise with Star Clippers. Some of the best destinations for snorkelling include Virgin Gorda, of the British Virgin Islands; and Tobago Cays, of the Grenadines.

All water sports activities are supervised by the sports team, who ensure your safety whilst using the equipment. The dedicated and knowledgeable team can offer expert guidance and advice.

Wherever you decide to travel with Star Clippers, you’ll be able to take full advantage of this truly unique feature. Whether you enjoy snorkelling, want to try your hand at windsurfing, or simply want to relax on an inflatable craft in the sun – you can do it all with Star Clippers. With itineraries in the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, Caribbean and around Cuba; there are plenty of tall-ship sailing experiences to enjoy.

What Defines a Clipper Ship?

20th August 2015

A sailing experience with Star Clippers is more than just a cruise. To sail on a tall ship is to appreciate a bygone era of exploration, trade and travel – purely by utilising the power of the wind. The Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer ships celebrate a time when the only way to traverse the globe was by the oceans. But what makes a clipper ship different to any other ship? And how can they be distinguished from the hundreds of other vessels that once roamed the seas?

Origins

It is thought the term “clipper” is most likely derived from the verb “clip”, meaning to run or fly swiftly. John Dryden, an English poet of the 17th century, was one of the first to use the term in the context it is defined today. He used the term to describe the graceful and swift flight of a falcon, stating: “And, with her eagerness the quarry missed, Straight flies at check, and clips it down the wind.” Thus, the term was also used to refer to speed.

The first vessels to which the term “clipper” was applied were the Baltimore Clippers. They were named as such as they were intended to clip over the waves, rather than simply plough through them. These ships were small and were designed with speed in mind, rather than vast amounts of cargo. The term appeared in England after this period, with the first Oxford English Dictionary entry dating back to 1830 – but it is thought to have been a widely popular term prior to this.

Whilst there is no specific definition for clipper ships, renowned mariner and author, Alan Villiers, has comprised probably the finest explanation of the ships’ characteristics. “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.”

Prior to the introduction of steam-powered vessels, it was these characteristics that were instrumental in success of clipper ships around the world. Their speed made them ideal for transporting goods such as opium between England, India and China; tea between China and England; and gold from California.

Due to vast number of sails on board a Clipper ship, they generally required a much larger crew for the day-to-day operation. Combine this factor with the speed at which these ships could travel and it is possible to truly appreciate the sheer sailing skill behind a clipper ship.

You can appreciate the elegance and sailing skill behind clipper ships today with Star Clippers cruises. With itineraries in the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, Caribbean and around Cuba; Star Clippers presents the unique opportunity to appreciate a bygone era of sailing, whilst also exploring new destinations.

The Great Tea Race of 1866

13th August 2015

In the middle of the 19th century, clipper ships were sent all around the world, with the most popular routes being from England to China, for tea; New York to San Francisco via Cape Horn, for gold; and India to China, for Opium. Since the 18th century, tea has been immensely popular in the UK and by the 19th century it was regarded as high fashion.

On many an occasion, these clipper ships would race each another and one of the most reported clipper races of all time was the ‘The Great Tea Race of 1866’. Five ships would participate in the race: Ariel, Fiery Cross, Serica, Taitsing, and Taeping. All very different ships, all shared the same aim; to be the first ship to travel from China to London with a full cargo of tea.

The captain of first ship to arrive in London would receive £100 and each of the officers and crew on board would receive an extra month’s wages. Additionally, as an extra incentive, the owners were offering ten shillings per ton to the ship that arrived first.

The race was not only a question of who could sail the distance in the shortest amount of time, but also a test of efficient management at the port of departure. Between the ships, over five million pounds of tea was loaded. Ariel was the first to be loaded, and the others shortly followed. All five ships set off from China at roughly the same time and by the 30th of May 1866 all ships had made it to sea.

Three months had passed since the clipper ships had set sail from China and there was great excitement in London. On September 5th, the telegraph ticked in London. A sighting of two ships, Ariel and Taeping, had been recorded at Lizard Point, the southernmost point of England. Not only had the two ships been sighted in close proximity, but it was also at this point that the captains of both ships had spotted each other.

This sparked a furious race to the finish line, with both captains eager to reach London and receive the prize after three months of vigorous sailing. All of Ariel’s 38 sails were in full swing as she flew along the English Channel, but Taeping was not far behind.

At 9:45pm on September 6th, the first of the tea clippers finally moored in the Old London Docks. Taeping was the winner of the race, but the captain and crew had barely begun celebrating before Ariel arrived, a mere 38 minutes later. So small was the difference in time of arrival after 99 days of sailing that the owners of the two ships decided to split the prize evenly.

As for the other ships, amazingly, Serica docked a mere hour and 15 minutes after Ariel. The other two ships were not far behind either, with Fiery Cross arriving 28 hours after Serica and Taitsing the following day.

Whilst this may have been one of the last graceful moments of the traditional clipper trading ships, it is possible to relive the sailing experience today. Star Clippers three ships - Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer – can each take you on a journey around some of the most beautiful regions on earth such as the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

The Gold Rush of 1849

6th August 2015

Transport yourself back to 1848, at which point California had previous been disputed between several parties including the Spanish, British, Mexicans and even the Russians. California had gained independence as a republic of its own, although this was short-lived. Following the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), California was under American control. Over the course of the next 20 years, the state would see its population grow exponentially as a result of one of the most historic events in American history.

After James Wilson Marshall began discovering small nuggets of gold in the state, the ships of the world turned to the American state. At first, gold was discovered in small nuggets, but more vast quantities of the precious metal were discovered in the rivers. San Francisco saw the arrival of 775 ships in 1849, a huge figure compared to the ten that docked in the bay the year before.

The American Gold Rush of 1849 had a huge impact, not only on America, but also the maritime world. Many of the ships that sailed to California during this era emulate the Star Clipper tall sailing ships of the 21st century.

Arriving from the east; sailors were presented with three options once they reached the American continent. The first option was to travel by foot or horse drawn carriage across America – travelling a total distance of 3,000 miles. Whilst this route may have seemed the safest, many were intimidated by the prospect of unfriendly Indians in the Wild West.

The second option was to travel by sea to the Isthmus of Panama, by foot across to the Pacific, and by sea for the remainder of the distance. Whilst this journey may have been considered the shortest in terms of distance to travel, many sailors were aware of the deadly diseases lurking in the swamps of Panama. The third option, and by far the most popular, was to sail around South America via Cape Horn, considered one of the most historically treacherous sailing routes. The total distance of this journey was 16,000 nautical miles, but there was great award for anyone willing to sail the dangerous route.

The discovery attracted thousands from around the world, particularly Europe, Latin America, Australia and Asia. Reports of 300,000 people arrived from the United States and abroad, half of which arrived by sea. Due to the extreme demand, the first four years of the gold rush saw the construction of 160 clippers ships.

Many gold diggers didn’t make a great amount from their finds, but one sailor, from Bavaria, Germany, would go on to make a fortune. Levi Strauss, who travelled to San Francisco in 1853, sewed trousers of old tarpaulin and fixed pockets with copper rivets. He would go on to form one of the most renowned blue jeans manufacturers in the world.

It’s safe to say that the Gold Rush was one of most influential moments for sailing in the American continent. It brought travellers from across the world and transformed the previously barren and empty areas into the bustling cities we see today. It was also a proud and significant era for the clipper ship.

Unlike many of the large cruise ships built today, Star Clippers can combine the traditional sailing experience with fantastic food, comfortable accommodation, and beautiful destinations. The fleet’s three ships can carry you gracefully across the seas of the world to destinations such as Cuba, the Mediterranean, and, as of December 2016, Asia.

Historical Superstitions at Sea

30th July 2015

Throughout history, superstition has played a significant role. The idea of one event causing another without natural process linking the two has led to many believing in supernatural possibilities such as astrology, religion and witchcraft. Seafaring was historically one of the most treacherous trades, and many sailors have their own superstitions when it comes to traversing the seas of the world.

Whilst the Royal Clipper, Star Flyer and Star Clipper tall sailing ships will all carry you in safety and comfort, many sailors still adhere to these superstitions. It is most likely that the superstitions are linked with the dangers of sailing, with certain occurrences thought to bring bad luck, whilst others bring good luck. This week, Star Clippers takes a closer look at a few of the historical maritime superstitions that you may hear during your time on the seas.

Bananas

Bananas are one of the world’s most popular fruits and are readily available in almost every country. However, if you see a banana on a ship, be wary that some seafarers would consider it to be bad luck. This is superstition is likely to have surfaced as a result of the Spanish South Atlantic and Caribbean trading empire during the 18th century.

At the time, an observation was made that nearly every ship carrying a cargo of bananas did not make its destination. Some consider this suggestion to be supported by various theories. One theory suggests that lethal spiders hide in bunches of bananas, whilst another theory suggests the bananas carried on board would eventually ferment and give off methane gas.

Cats

Whilst a black cat seen onshore may be considered unlucky, sailors considered the sight of a black cat on board a ship to be good luck. Cats would eat rodents and other pests that could chew away on the ropes. They would also create a sense of home for sea-captains spending significant time at sea.

It was also believed that cats had mystical weather powers that could protect a ship in adverse conditions. However, some believed that this could also result in a number of consequences. If a cat licked its fur, it would mean a hailstorm was coming; if it sneezed, rain was on the way; and if it fell overboard, the ship would endure a terrible storm.

Sunrise/Sunset

The old saying: “Red sky at night, shepherd’s delight. Red sky in the morning, shepherd’s warning” can also relate to sailors who have a keen eye on the weather. Whilst some say this relates to a particular verse from the Bible, there is also some meteorological foundation behind it. This can all come down to the amount of cloud cover present in the morning or evening.

In the UK, the weather comes from the west. The sun rises in the east, and sets in the west. When the skies are cloudier, the sun will reflect off of them to create a display of red colours. Cloud-cover is a way of determining how good the weather will be – but if the clouds (and respective red sky) are present in the evening; it means the adverse weather has already passed. Likewise, if there is significant cloud cover and a red sky in the morning – the weather has yet to pass.

Whether you decide to traverse the Mediterranean, Caribbean; Star Clippers can take you to a range of destinations in comfort and safety. Our three tall sailing ships can take you to fantastic locations such as Cuba, the Panama Canal and, as of December 2016, Asia.

Experience Croatia and Montenegro with Star Clippers

16th July 2015

Venturing into the Eastern Mediterranean with Star Clippers will enable you to visit stunning Adriatic destinations such as Venice; as well as the Greek Islands. There are a range of Balkan destinations that have seen a rise in popularity in recent years. The Greece, Montenegro and Croatia cruise itinerary will allow you to explore a range of destinations across Croatia and Montenegro that you may currently know little to nothing about. So, to shed a little more light on these fantastic destinations, Star Clippers takes a closer look at what you can expect from Croatia and Montenegro.

Mali Losinj – Croatia

Historically, since the 19th century, Mali Losinj has been popular with merchants. Back then, there were 11 shipyards situated in the little town – more than anywhere else in the Adriatic, including Venice. Mali Losinj has lost a little ground in terms of tourism in recent years, but this almost-secret paradise has much to offer to everyone who visits. There is no airport on the island and, as a result, the 30km long beach is yours for the taking and at the same time, it offers almost every water sport imaginable. Alternatively, you can visit the fortified town of Veli Losinj – where it is possible to climb the historical 15th century defence tower.

Hvar - Croatia

Slightly more popular, but every bit as beautiful; the Croatian island of Hvar sits off the Dalmatian Coast. This island presents a mixture of history from the Roman, Byzantine, Venetian and Austro-Hungarian eras. The town square is the largest in the whole of Croatia, whilst the walls of the fortress on top of hill encompass a large part of the city. Enjoy all of this whilst admiring the crystal blue seas and surrounding fields and valleys – where lavender perfumes the air.

Dubrovnik - Croatia

In the extreme south of Croatia lies the walled city of Dubrovnik – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. George Bernard Shaw, playwright and co-founder of the London School of Economics, once said: “Those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik.” Walk the city’s 2km walls, which will take you around the old forts of the city. Also worth visiting is the old town, much of which has been repaired following the Croatian War of Independence from 1991-1995. Alternatively, stroll along the harbour of the old town and soak up the sun.

Kotor – Montenegro

More and more travellers are opting not to visit Monte Carlo; instead opting to visit the remote idyllic Montenegrin paradise of Kotor. It soon becomes clear, upon arrival, that you are visiting somewhere very special. The stunning rock-walled chasm, that splits the coastal mountains, is the longest arm of sea in southern Europe. Kotor Bay is absolutely stunning and its natural fjord-like bay is the deepest of its kind in the Mediterranean Sea. The entire city has been built around the old town, Stari Grad – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whilst this blog has shed light on these beautiful Balkan paradises; the only way to truly appreciate them is to embark on a Star Clippers cruise for yourself. Star Clippers operate many exciting itineraries around the Eastern Mediterranean; as well as the Western Mediterranean, the Caribbean and Cuba.

Insight into the British Virgin Islands

9th July 2015

The beauty of embarking on a Star Clippers cruise is the relaxed itinerary and on board atmosphere. Winds and waves effortlessly carry you from one port to the next, whilst you either relax on the top deck or volunteer to get involved with the sailing of the ship. The Star Clippers Treasure Islands itinerary will allow you to visit the British Virgin Islands, widely thought to be the inspiration behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous novel, Treasure Island.

Sailing from Philipsburg, St Maarten and visiting Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and St. Barts; this cruise will allow you to visit some of the most beautiful islands the Caribbean has to offer. This week, Star Clippers takes a closer look at the treasure and tranquil beauty of the British Virgin Islands.

Virgin Gorda

This is the first British Virgin Islands destination visited on the Treasure Islands itinerary, and the first thing you may notice on the island is the lack of commercialisation. Since becoming an established tourist destination in the 1960’s, people have flocked to the island’s beautiful array of beaches.

The Baths is the island’s most famous beach, as it contains many hidden caves and pools amongst giant granite boulders. A short trail from The Baths will take you to Devil’s Bay, where popular activities include snorkelling. The island is also very good for rock climbing and there are many designated routes for beginners and experts.

The Bight, Norman Island

Norman Island is one of the islands considered to be the influence for the popular and classic novel, Treasure Island. The time at which Treasure Island was written matches with the time that the booty of Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe was salvaged.

This uninhabited island presents a tropical paradise and is renowned for its three water-level caves, which you may witness upon entering The Bight. With so many caves, hidden bays and wrecks on the island; you may uncover some treasures of your own.

Soper’s Hole, Tortola

Tortola is the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands, yet there is no shortage of beautiful beaches and places to relax. Josiah’s Bay offers a beach that is popular with both tourists and natives alike. Enjoy a glass of rum and you’ll come to appreciate the laid back lifestyle of the Caribbean.

Alternatively, Brewer’s Bay is the only non-white sand beach on the island – with the sand instead being a dark, golden colour. This beach presents many opportunities for snorkelling and you may even spot pelicans diving into the sea for fish.

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke

Sticking with the theme of treasure islands and pirates; Jost Van Dyke was named after a Dutch pirate of the same name who used the island as a hideaway. Jost Van Dyke offers some of the finest beaches of the British Islands including Sandy Cay.

The island is also tremendously popular amongst walkers. A path at Sandy Cay can take you all the way around the island and provide an opportunity to admire the local flora and fauna. There are many hiking trails around the island and, after a long trek, be sure to head over to the famous Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great harbour for a spot of relaxation.

If all this talk of treasure hunting and sailing on a traditional tall ship has inspired you; why not embark on a Caribbean adventure of your own with Star Clippers. Sailing on board the Star Clipper, this cruise will take you to some of the finest treasures the Caribbean has to offer.

Insight into the Cayman Islands

2nd July 2015

With US tensions relaxing and new leadership in the country, Cuba is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in the world. A visit to the largest Caribbean island will allow you to travel into the past and experience glistening old cars and salsa dancing. Star Clippers operate a variety of cruises around Cuba – sailing from and returning to Cienfuegos. These cruises, on board the Star Flyer, take place during the winter seasons – between December and March.

In addition to Cuba, these itineraries will also allow you to visit the Cayman Islands. This group of islands form a British overseas territory, yet it provides a taste of Florida. Stopping at the scenic and picturesque island of Cayman Brac, and the luxurious city of George Town on the main island, Grand Cayman, you will be sure to enjoy a diverse and unique experience. This week, Star Clippers takes a closer look at what you can see and experience in the Cayman Islands.

Cayman Brac

On May 10, 1503, Christopher Columbus discovered Cayman Brac along with its sister island, Little Cayman, after being blown off course whilst sailing between Hispaniola and Panama. He named the islands “Las Tortugas” because of the many turtles he witnessed and then set off without venturing further into the islands and surrounding shores. Sir Francis Drake encountered the islands later, in 1586, and renamed them the Caymans after reportedly seeing many crocodiles.

Cayman Brac is an adventurer’s paradise and is perfect for travellers seeking an experience off the beaten track. For those looking the experience diving, visit the Bloody Bay. Here, you will be greeted by 1,000 feet of nearly vertical cliff wall which descends into the ocean floor. Admiring the wide range of marine life and corals will take your breath away. For those looking to explore the dry land, there are many lush green forests and rockeries that boast an amazing wealth of wildlife including the endangered Brac Parrot, Frigate birds and red-footed boobies.

George Town, Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the centre of some of the world’s largest banking institutions. With that, the opportunity comes to with tax-free, duty-free and almost restriction free shopping. George Town is home to many designer labels, and after a day of shopping – there’s no better place to relax with a cocktail whilst watching the sunset in one of the many laid-back beach bars.

If you'd prefer a sense of adventure, you won’t be disappointed with the options available in George Town. This is one of the only places in the world where you can get close encounters with tame sting-rays. You can even experience the surrounding marine life and what lies beneath the surface without getting wet. The Atlantis Submarine Expedition will allow you to witness the Grand Cayman’s Underwater Marine Park from 30 metres below the surface.

If you want to experience everything the Cayman Islands have to offer, look no further than Star Clippers Cuba itineraries. These winter sailings on board the Star Flyer will depart from Cienfuegos, Cuba, before sailing to some of the islands that make up this fantastic country and the Cayman Islands.