Glorious sailing on board Star Clipper
Hannah, Senior Travel Consultant at our Woodbridge shop, had a truly unforgettable experience recently, sailing the Mediterranean for four nights onboard Star Clipper. This extraordinary ship carries just 166 guests who enjoy a luxurious voyage full of modern comforts, combined with the romance and history of traditional sailing. Beautiful teak decks and polished brass gleamed in the sunshine for Hannah’s gorgeous journey that combined travel, culture, and life at sea across the Mediterranean:
“We began our journey flying from London Stansted Airport to Palma, Majorca. Upon arrival, we breezed through the new Entry/Exit System (EES), collected our luggage quickly, and easily found a taxi directly outside the terminal building for the short transfer to the port.
Boarding the ship was extremely efficient. Check-in at the Purser’s Office was well organised, with passports and card details registered for onboard accounts. Once checked in, we were free to head back ashore and spend several hours exploring Palma. After a short taxi ride from the port into the city centre, we wandered through the beautiful streets, taking in the atmosphere and architecture before returning to the ship. Back onboard, we explored the ship’s public areas, including the pools, restaurant, and open deck spaces. One of the highlights of the day was experiencing the famous “Star Clipper Sail Away.” As the sails were raised and music played, we enjoyed spectacular views across the harbour towards the Cathedral whilst waving goodbye to Palma.
Our first port of call was Mahon in Menorca. Mahon offered a completely different atmosphere to Palma, much quieter and slower paced, with a charming old town full of character. We walked from the port and used the glass lift to reach the town before exploring and returning down to the port via the steps. The remainder of the day was spent relaxing onboard and sampling the ship’s cocktail of the day!
From Mahon, we sailed overnight and throughout the following day towards Saint Tropez, arriving after lunch. We had the entire afternoon and evening to explore this famous coastal town. Tender boats transported passengers ashore every half hour, providing flexibility and convenience. There were also opportunities onboard to participate in activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
Departing Saint-Tropez was another spectacular moment of the trip, with a sail away accompanied by a fantastic light show. Music played as the illuminated sails created an unforgettable atmosphere across the evening sky. Our next destination was Nice. After packing our bags the evening before for early disembarkation, we said our goodbyes to both crew and fellow passengers. Once formalities were complete, we used the port’s electric shuttle to reach the old port area before walking along the promenade into the city. We spent time exploring Nice’s beautiful old town, including its colourful markets filled with flowers, artwork, and local food. We then continued into the newer, more modern shopping district with its designer stores and cafés. Afterwards, we returned to the port where our pre-booked taxi transfer met us for the short journey to the airport.
The food onboard throughout the trip was exceptional, with an incredible variety available at all times of the day. Early risers could enjoy an early bird breakfast with pastries, juice, tea, and coffee before the main breakfast service began. Breakfast itself offered a huge range of options, including fresh fruit, cereals, cooked items, and made-to-order omelettes prepared while you waited. Lunch was served buffet style with a wide variety of hot and cold dishes available daily. Later in the afternoon there were additional snacks and treats including tacos, sandwiches, pastries, ice cream, and more, ensuring there was always something available after returning from excursions or relaxing onboard. Even later in the evening, midnight snacks were served for anyone still awake after entertainment or stargazing activities. Dinner each evening was another memorable experience, consisting of an impressive five course meal with dishes displayed beforehand so guests could visually see the menu options available. There were also alternatives available every evening, including pasta, and steak, ensuring there was something for everyone. For drinks there is the Tropical outdoor bar, a relaxing indoor Piano Bar, or some quiet moments can be had in the Edwardian style library – there are lots of spaces across the ship to relax and enjoy the journey.
Onboard activities included photography tutorials, morning yoga sessions, dips in the pools, and hands-on sailing experiences where passengers could help pull the ropes to raise the sails. We also had the opportunity to climb the mast. Many mornings we woke early to watch the sunrise at sea - the most peaceful and memorable experience, that highlighted the beauty of life onboard a tall ship. Another unforgettable activity was stargazing with Fredric, the Cruise Director. We were incredibly fortunate to be travelling during a meteor shower, allowing us to see shooting stars clearly in the dark, unpolluted night skies.
The whole experience was truly amazing and provided a fantastic combination of cultural exploration, sailing experiences and relaxation. Perfect for a range of travellers, including solo passengers & multigenerational families with older, perhaps teenage, children. This was a truly inspiring and memorable journey that offered some many unique opportunities, both onboard and ashore."
