Experience Star Clippers with a Taster Cruise
14th January 2015
Unsure whether cruising is for you? Want to try something different? Star Clippers deliver a unique and traditional high-octane sailing experience which sets itself aside from the massive cruise liners.
Star Clippers, in association with Kirker concierge, offer a range of short three or four night cruise packages, as well as pre and post cruise stays in luxurious and relaxing hotels, in the middle of a popular city location. These taster cruises allow you to experience the wonder of traditional wind-sailing, without committing to a longer cruise and without the crowds consisting of thousands of people. You may have already travelled by land around some of Europe’s most popular destinations – so step out of your comfort zone and try something new!
You’ll feel the power of the wind on board any one of the Star Clipper sailing ships: Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer. Though the itineraries are mapped out the destinations vary on the power of the wind and condition of the seas, and you may end up visiting locations off the map – adding a real sense of adventure to a Star Clippers cruise. During your time on board your time is heavily based on water sports and water based amenities such as kayaking and snorkelling.
But what locations can you visit on a Star Clippers taster cruise? We take a closer look at the options available. Each cruise itinerary has been linked with a Kirker recommended hotel, enabling you to get the very best out of your chosen destination.
Taste of the French Riviera
This seven night adventure will take you on a gloriously delightful cruise around the French Riviera, with the added feature of being able to witness the Grand Prix trials in Monte Carlo.
Travel to Cannes, which was once a fishing village, and is now one of the most spectacular riviera cities in southern Europe. Stroll along the promenade or try you luck at one of the casinos, before experiencing the charm of the old town. Your second destination lies on the French island of Corsica, in the city of Calvi – which is steeped in history. The city is known for the ‘Siege of Calvi’ which was the battle where Nelson famously sustained the injury which resulted in him losing his eye.
After setting sail from Corsica your next destination is Monte Carlo – where you will be able to witness the world renowned Grand Prix race track which will be hosting the race trials on the date of your visit. There are more billionaires per square mile in Monaco than anywhere else in the world, and the casinos, wonderful architecture, designer label shops and stunning views contribute to a stunning city. Your final destination before returning to Cannes is the glamourous St Tropez – a destination of choice for the rich and famous and after rubbing shoulders with such, you will be able to relax on one of the beautiful beaches in style.
Following a sun soaked four night cruise you will spend three nights in the Four Star, Port Palace Hotel in Monaco. This hotel will provide the sophisticated glamour you would expect, based in close proximity to the harbour. Three nights here will allow you to explore and appreciate everything that Monte Carlo has to offer, from the casinos and wonderful architecture, to the gardens and stunning promenade.
Cannes & Monaco
Alternatively, if you want to experience the French Riviera outside of the busy summer months then the Cannes & Monaco Cruise, which sets sail in late September, is ideal for you.
Like the Taste of the French Riviera Cruise, your cruise will start and finish in Cannes. However, this three night cruise will allow you to appreciate elements of the French Riviera in a different light. After embarking from Cannes, you will travel to L’ile Rousse in Corsica – which lies at the foot of the Balagne hills. Beaches of white sand and a charming market place greet all visitors to this laid-back and relaxing town.
After spending time in the glamourous St Tropez, made famous by former French actress and singer Brigitte Bardot, you will travel back to Cannes before spending three nights in the dazzling Five Star, Metropole Hotel – one of the most famous in Monaco and one of the elite Palace Grand Hotels. The Metropole Hotel exerts opulent and exuberant luxury with stunning architecture in a fabulous location. Without the hustle and bustle of the Grand Prix you can experience the world-renowned Monte Carlo in the tranquil peace and quiet. To top it all off you will take an exhilarating helicopter ride from Monaco to Nice airport to finish your exciting journey in style.
Italy, Croatia, Slovenia
If you are after a sense of romance then travel no further than the beautiful city of Venice, Italy, where you will be able to embark on a journey around Italy, Croatia and Slovenia. After a three night cruise you will then be able to spend a further two nights in Venice to appreciate and explore the wonderful city.
The adventure begins in Venice, north-eastern Italy. This floating city feels like an idyllic fairy tale and consists of 118 small islands joined together by a series of canals – the most notable being the Grand Canal, which carries visitors through the city and under the Rialto Bridge. After embarking from Venice, you will traverse the seas of the Mediterranean to Rovinj in Slovenia. This city is home to a beautiful harbour, classical architecture and some truly picturesque, colourful town houses which exert culture and charm. The coastal town of Piran, in Slovenia, is your next stop and the architecture here is similar to that of Venice. This is perhaps down to the fact that both Rovinj and Piran were once part of the Venetian empire; and a stroll along the city wall in Piran will allow you to bask in the city’s tremendous design and feel.
On return to Venice, you will spend three nights at the suitably named 4* Splendid Hotel, which is based in the heart of the city. This hotel exerts quality and luxury and will allow you to experience everything that Venice has to offer with a real sense of style. Whether you decide to take a romantic canal journey on a gondola, or admire the Venetian architectural brilliance of Doge’s Palace and the Bell Tower of St Mark – you will have an unforgettable, romantic adventure in Venice.
Breathtaking Rome Roundtrip
If you want to experience a different side of Italy (literally!) by visiting Rome and the delights of western Italy you can do so on the breath-taking Rome Roundtrip.
Your journey begins in the coastal area of Civitavecchia, in the coastal part of the glorious and victorious Italian capital of Rome. The city that was built on seven hills boasts a historical centre consisting of palaces, churches, ruins, monuments, statues and fountains – all of which contribute to the city’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After setting sail from Rome, you will travel on a four night cruise on board the Royal Clipper – travelling firstly to Porto Vecchio in Corsica. This town located at the southern tip of the French island, boasts a fine harbour - mixing relaxing beaches with mountain scenery.
Costa Smerelda, on the Italian island of Sardinia, is your next stop and this coastal area boasts fine white beaches with natural beauty. This region is regarded as the most expensive location in Europe, with house prices reaching up to 300,000 Euros. The final stop before returning to Rome is the city of Portoferraio, on the Italian island of Elba. The town centre here surrounds a small marina, drawn in a natural cove and it is here that you can delve into the history of the French Revolution by visiting Napoleon’s house.
After a delightful cruise with Star Clippers, you will be able to spend a further three nights in the historical city of Rome – staying at the 4* Marcella Royal Hotel. The saying “Rome was not built in a day” becomes apparent here – and likewise it is impossible to see it all in one day. Rome boasts so much to see and do and your sightseeing experience is made easier by the hotel’s close proximity to the Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps.
