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September 6, 2024

Anyone who knows how to look beyond the usual clichés about cruising is well aware that this world offers an extremely wide range of products, tailored to different nationalities, vacation styles, budgets, and age groups.

Many companies focus on exclusive experiences, while others prioritize onboard innovation. We recently discovered the world of Star Clippers, a company with a fleet of three sailing ships that operates in many regions worldwide, during a short cruise aboard their flagship, the Royal Clipper. This experience allowed us to deeply understand the characteristics of this brand, which, while not suitable for every type of clientele, certainly offers unique aspects in the industry and emotions that are hard to find on other types of ships.

Royal Clipper is a modern sailing ship, built with respect for the traditional sailing constructions of the past, yet it is not intended to be a reproduction, but rather an evolution, thanks to its modern equipment and state-of-the-art comforts. Inspired by the legendary Preussen, Royal Clipper is today the largest sailing ship and the only five-masted full-rigged ship built since its predecessor was launched at the beginning of the last century. This record earned it a Guinness World Record in 2011, a beautiful commemorative plaque of which is still proudly displayed in the Library.

The ship consists of four decks dedicated to guests, who can number up to 207, served by a crew of 106 members. Onboard, the communal space ensures comfort and many areas where one can find tranquility and enjoy the sea, a fundamental element aboard a sailing ship like Royal Clipper. Its sail area of approximately 5,000 square meters, spread across 42 sails, is one of the most fascinating elements, giving the ship unparalleled elegance, especially when observed from a distance. Onboard, the cabins are divided into various categories. Two luxurious suites are located at the aft of the Main Deck, with skylights on the upper deck. Another 14 Deluxe Suites are located in the midship to forward area on the same deck, also very beautiful and spacious. Other types are found below on the Clipper Deck. At the stern, the two Owner’s Suites occupy the entire stern, with a semicircular design that provides space and uniqueness, including a jacuzzi in the bathroom. Other categories on this deck, from the Exterior Superior to the Interior, are equally welcoming and extend to the lower Commodore Deck. Due to the hull’s design, many cabins vary in size and configuration, even within the same category.

The common areas are well distributed across all guest decks. Vertically, one of Royal Clipper’s unique features is the Captain Nemo Gym, Lounge, and Spa, located below sea level, offering an exciting underwater view through portholes in this wellness space. Here, a sofa and armchairs also welcome those who wish to experience this environment without exercising, simply enjoying the sea from a truly exclusive perspective. Another feature that makes this flagship of the Star Clippers fleet unique is the Marina, located at the stern of the Commodore Deck. This platform opens whenever the ship is at anchor, allowing for marine activities such as swimming, kayaking, and more. It’s a thrilling option for enjoying a swim at sea without leaving the comforts of the ship, or for experiencing the excitement of a dive into the deep blue waters.

The Commodore Deck also houses the ship’s only restaurant, the Clipper Dining Room, which serves all meals from breakfast to dinner. The style is very informal, although the décor is elegant, truly evoking the atmosphere of being on an ancient and charming sailing ship. Wood and fabrics surround the entire environment, which includes a central buffet for breakfast and lunch, with a series of tables arranged on multiple levels, the highest of which offers beautiful sea views through large windows. Here, dinner seating and tables are not assigned, and in Star Clippers’ philosophy, this encourages guest interaction and fosters new friendships. In the evening, service is à la carte, offering always excellent dishes with an international style but attentive to the regions visited during the cruise itinerary.

The Clipper Deck also features the Purser’s Office at the stern and the Reception, which is essentially part of the beautiful Boutique. Here, you can purchase nautical-themed clothing, high-quality apparel, and unique souvenirs such as beautiful books and elegant mugs. Some paintings recount the ship’s history and enrich the Gallery, an elegant space where you can walk and breathe the true essence of Royal Clipper. An Atrium connects the three decks, starting from the restaurant, encompassing the Gallery area, which also includes a small office dedicated to excursions, and finally the Piano Bar lounge, a large salon on the Main Deck. Here, the many small sitting areas once again convey an intense “sailing ship” atmosphere, with windows onto the promenade deck and the sea on both sides, and a central bar serving the entire area.

Beyond this bar is the outdoor area, served by the Tropical Bar, one of the ship’s most frequented spots. The connection with the sea is even stronger here, and you can’t resist ordering your favorite cocktail and enjoying it at one of the tables right on the water’s edge, where the sea feels incredibly close. In the evening, this is one of the most popular areas, both before dinner for an aperitif and after dinner, thanks to some shows and musical entertainment. On the opposite side of the bar is the Library, a small corner of tranquility with sofas and a relaxing atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of books in multiple languages, some interesting items related to the ship’s history, and a good range of board games. This lovely venue is also a retreat from the summer heat during the peak season, thanks to the coolness and the restful feeling it conveys.

The upper deck, the Sun Deck, is undoubtedly where you truly feel like you’re on a sailing ship, offering a series of unique experiences in the context of a cruise. Along its length are several sun loungers, positioned in various spots on the deck, nestled among the rigging and maneuvering lines. This is the charm of Royal Clipper: being always in the midst of navigation, surrounded by sails being hoisted or lowered. The entire deck is served by three pools, two smaller ones, and a larger central one. An outdoor bar offers drinks throughout the day and is also a pleasant meeting place for some shade during hot days.

The bow area offers the most thrilling experiences: here, you can walk on the net suspended over the sea, right near the bowsprit, one of the most exclusive sensations to experience aboard. Lying on this piece of netting, especially during navigation, is one of the unforgettable moments of a Royal Clipper cruise. Also at the bow, two small seats exposed overboard on the starboard and port sides are other little nooks to discover, perfect for watching the sea and relaxing. The Sun Deck is naturally also the starting point for climbing the ship’s masts. Another unique experience that every guest should try during the cruise. Step by step, in complete safety, you’ll reach the first level of the mast, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and a breathtaking view of the ship. Among the other experiences that distinguish the Star Clippers fleet is stargazing with the officers, an exciting activity on beautiful evenings and a point of connection with the ever-available crew.

Another thrilling moment aboard is not to be missed. Almost as a surprise, when the weather conditions are ideal, the captain invites all guests to take their places in the tenders and admire Royal Clipper from afar as she sails away with full sails. It’s an incomparable spectacle, with all the sails unfurled and the sound of the horn, as you sail alongside or astern. Some of the officers, in a gesture of farewell, walk the bowsprit and wave, standing for a few minutes. On the final evening, we enjoyed another light and sound show involving Royal Clipper’s sails, marking almost a farewell aboard. Another small exclusivity that adds to what this fleet of sailing ships offers.

Life aboard Royal Clipper follows a relaxed and informal pace. The crew is always ready to involve guests in the ship’s operations, particularly the maneuvers and other tasks that sailing entails. There is a strong emphasis on guest interaction and their involvement in all the activities offered during the cruise itinerary. But there are certainly also moments to enjoy your own privacy, thanks to a series of small spaces, both indoor and outdoor, that Royal Clipper is rich in.

The Royal Clipper is a ship that stands apart from the latest innovations in cruise ships, which are increasingly filled with dining options, entertainment, and various venues. Instead, it brings back the true tradition of seafaring, rediscovering the art of navigation and the genuine connection with nature and the beauty of the sea. This is done not in an artificial or nostalgic way but in a completely authentic manner, led by a skilled crew eager to share these values with guests. Coupled with itineraries of great allure, whether in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or other exotic destinations, there are countless reasons to embark on a cruise like this, and we were deeply captivated by the experience.

Don’t miss the video tour, photo album, and reviews of Royal Clipper on Cruising Journal, featuring photos, videos, and cruise offers.

Gabriele Bassi

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