Rachel's Grand Voyage with Star Clippers
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
After returning from what can only be described as an amazing experience, I would love to share my adventure with you all...I was lucky to join six of my Travel Network Group colleagues on a 4-night Star Clippers cruise aboard the Star Clipper, sailing from Malaga to Majorca, stopping at Motril for Granada and Ibiza along the way.
Star Clippers have a fleet of three tall ships, Star Clipper, Royal Clipper, and Star Flyer, which offer a unique, authentic sailing experience in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, as well as Atlantic crossings. Their ships can sail into ports that larger ships are unable to access. Fun fact: Star Clippers are among the only ships that can still sail into the heart of Venice.
Star Clipper accommodates just 166 guests and offers a high crew-to-guest ratio, so you are sailing with like-minded people and an extremely knowledgeable and experienced crew. Having cruised with various lines before, this felt entirely different, more like being aboard a private yacht, where the closeness to the ocean made every moment feel more personal and immersive; a truly unique sailing experience.
These small ships offer a perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication, with onboard experiences including massages, yoga classes, gym sessions, stargazing, photography and watercolour lessons, as well as cocktail parties. For the more adventurous, there’s the opportunity to climb the Crow’s Nest—a 65-foot ascent to the top of the mast, or simply lie back on the nets, taking in the surroundings.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot dolphins playing in the ocean below.
Night-time onboard is generally a relaxed affair, mixing with friends or sharing stories with fellow shipmates whilst enjoying drinks in the Piano or Tropical Bar. If you prefer a livelier evening the crew members will entertain you with a sail-away party, cocktail party, fashion show, concert, talent show, disco, cinema screening, and stargazing classes (if you’re the patient type). Local performers, folk groups or musicians are invited onboard in some ports. Alternatively, you can just lie on deck looking at the stars, simply listening to the ocean.
The food was exceptional, with an impressive buffet selection for breakfast and lunch, and elegant table service for dinner. Guests are free to dine whenever and with whomever they wish, including the officers, who often join guests in the dining room in the evenings. Complimentary afternoon and midnight snacks are also available.
The ships have two or three pools on the sundeck, which is the best way to cool down after catching some rays. If you’re into water sports you can indulge in snorkelling, water skiing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding!
A huge thank you to Star Clippers for such an unforgettable experience, their amazing staff and to my wonderful colleagues for sharing it with me!
