Guaranteed to turn heads in every port, Star Clipper is one of a three-strong fleet of tall ships that sail under wind power whenever possible. The flagship vessel of the line with the same name, Star Clippers was founded by Swedish sailing enthusiast Mikael Krafft, who wanted to recreate the 19th-century golden age of sail for modern-day travellers, and Star Clipper was launched in 1992 – a year after sister ship Star Flyer.
The two ships are identical – each has sunbathing space on teak decks, two plunge pools, a massage room, an Edwardian-style library, plus water sports and snorkel equipment – meaning this review can also apply to Star Flyer.
Overall score 7/10
Style and Character 9/10
The ship is a four-masted barquentine – the technical name given to a sailing ship with a square-rigged front mast – and its 16 billowing sails are a magnificent sight to behold. They are raised each time the ship leaves port to the stirring sound of Conquest of Paradise by Vangelis, and it’s a goosebump moment.
Based on clipper ships of yesteryear, the nautical-inspired interiors are filled with wood and gleaming brass, and the old-world atmosphere is completed with the sight of crew members in white and striped uniforms manually hoisting and trimming the sails.
Like a famous breakfast spread, Star Clipper is not for everyone – particularly guests looking for a mainstream cruise experience with plenty of entertainment, restaurants and bars. On the other hand, romantics, open-minded people with a sense of adventure, and landlubbers who would never set foot on a traditional cruise will love it.
Cabins 5/10
Cabins are much smaller than rooms on regular cruise ships, and are best shared with someone you know well and who will keep things tidy. The bathrooms are also tiny, with no room to swing the proverbial ship’s cat, plus clingy shower curtains.
Steer clear of the inside cabins and book one with portholes for the full clipper effect. In the lower cabins, the sea often swirls round them like a washing machine. However, Star Clipper fans say nothing beats the feeling of being cosily rocked to sleep at night. Eight cabins open directly out onto the top deck, and for the full master and commander vibe, the Owner’s Cabin spans the width of the ship.
Food and drink 8/10
While not gourmet, the food is very good, varied and imaginative. There’s a sizeable spread at breakfast, daily themed buffets and served lunches – such as Italian and Asian – and a la carte dinner.
The al fresco Tropical Bar and, on chillier days, the inside Piano Bar are the social hubs of the ship, from early riser breakfast through to the last person turning in after a nightcap or two. The eagerly anticipated cocktail hour comes with a cut-price drink of the day and substantial hot and cold canapes that are a meal in themselves.
Service and Facilities 7/10
Star Clipper is a relaxed and sociable ship, with no airs and graces. Service is friendly, but don’t expect the ultra-slick operation you find on larger ships.
There’s an open bridge policy, so you can drop by and chat to the captain, and you can expect to see off-duty officers at both the bar and on the dance floor. The quietest spot is the wood-panelled library. The two unheated saltwater splash pools are great for cooling off – but be aware they have underwater windows, so you’ll be on show to guests on the decks below.
Entertainment and excursions 7/10
Star Clipper is all about the experience of being aboard a tall ship. Entertainment is low-key and nautically themed, such as officer-led talks and stargazing sessions, knot tying classes, lounging in the bowsprit net or – for the plucky – climbing the mast in a safety harness to be rewarded by breath-taking views.
There are optional passenger participation activities, including a light-hearted talent show, fashion parade and pirates’ night. Watersports, including snorkelling, paddle-boarding and kayaking, are also laid on. Shore excursions, such as walking tours and wildlife watching, are offered, but a minimum number of participants is required.
Value for money 7/10
Fares have few inclusions, so you need to budget for extras – many of them pretty essential – to fully enjoy your holiday. The price covers accommodation, meals, on-board activities and watersports. Drinks are very reasonably priced at around £4 for a beer, £6 for a cocktail and £21 for a bottle of wine.
Similarly, shore tours start at £30, and recommended tips are £8.50 per person, per day. Wi-Fi costs £15 for seven days. Spa treatments and laundry are also extra. Tour operators such as Riviera Travel and Unforgettable Travel package cruises with flights and other inclusions.
Access for guests with disabilities?
With no lifts, decks full of nautical equipment and loungers, and the use of tenders for many landings and shore excursions, this is not a ship for anyone with mobility issues.
Family-friendly
In theory, Star Clipper accommodates children from six months old, but there’s no children’s club, and with all the working activity on deck, it’s not suitable for small children. It would appeal to older youngsters and teens interested in sailing, who wouldn’t mind if they’re in the minority or the only children aboard.
About our expert
Jeannine Williamson
Jeannine Williamson has clocked up thousands of nautical miles on an A to Z of worldwide rivers, from the Amazon to the Zambezi. When she’s not afloat, Jeannine can be found beside the water at home on England’s south coast.