Star Clippers

The tall ship Royal Clipper Valletta is anchored in a Mediterranean harbor with passengers enjoying watersports activities including paddleboarding and jet skis in the clear blue water. The vessel's distinctive square-rigged sails and masts are visible against a hillside dotted with Mediterranean architecture.
Vector graphic: star-clippers-logo.svg

Sail the World Aboard the Tallest Tall Ships at Sea

Star Clippers operates the world’s largest fleet of tall sailing ships, offering a cruise experience that is truly unlike any other on the seas. Founded by Swedish entrepreneur Mikael Krafft in 1991, Star Clippers was born from a lifelong passion for sailing and a vision to revive the golden age of tall ship voyages – blending the romance and adventure of classic clipper ships with the comforts of a modern cruise. With an intimate fleet of three magnificent sailing vessels carrying between 170 and 227 guests, Star Clippers invites you to feel the wind fill thousands of square feet of sail as you journey to the world’s most captivating destinations. This is cruising as it was meant to be – powered by wind, defined by adventure, and crafted for those who crave something extraordinary.

The beauty of traveling by tall ship is the ability to glide into small, charming harbors that larger cruise vessels simply cannot reach. Star Clippers’ itineraries are crafted to reveal the hidden gems of the world’s most alluring sailing regions. Explore the sun-drenched islands of the Eastern and Western Caribbean, where you’ll anchor in secluded bays and discover pristine beaches far from the crowds. Sail the storied waters of the Mediterranean – from the Côte d’Azur and the Amalfi Coast to the Greek Isles and Croatian coastline. Venture into the exotic waterways of Southeast Asia, where ancient temples and floating markets await. Each itinerary is a curated voyage of discovery, with ports chosen for their authenticity and beauty.

A magnificent full-rigged sailing vessel with billowing cream-colored sails navigates Venice's iconic Grand Canal, passing the historic San Giorgio Maggiore church and campanile. Traditional gondolas with mooring poles dot the foreground, showcasing the contrast between classic maritime heritage and Venetian waterfront architecture.
The tall ship Royal Clipper Valletta is anchored in a Mediterranean harbor with passengers enjoying watersports activities including paddleboarding and jet skis in the clear blue water. The vessel's distinctive square-rigged sails and masts are visible against a hillside dotted with Mediterranean architecture.
A stunning white-hulled tall ship with full square-rigged sails deployed sails across calm blue waters under a clear sky. The classic sailing vessel features multiple masts with billowing white canvas and a modern white superstructure, exemplifying traditional maritime elegance combined with contemporary cruise ship amenities.
A magnificent full-rigged sailing vessel with billowing cream-colored sails navigates Venice's iconic Grand Canal, passing the historic San Giorgio Maggiore church and campanile. Traditional gondolas with mooring poles dot the foreground, showcasing the contrast between classic maritime heritage and Venetian waterfront architecture.

An Intimate, Casual Atmosphere

One of the most distinctive qualities of a Star Clippers voyage is the wonderfully relaxed atmosphere aboard. There is no formal dress code – think resort casual throughout your sailing, with no tuxedo nights or elaborate gowns required. The intimate size of each ship means you quickly get to know your fellow passengers and the attentive crew. There are no rigid schedules or regimented activities; instead, days unfold naturally, guided by the wind and the rhythm of the sea. Relax in a hammock on deck, join the crew in hoisting the sails, or simply find a quiet spot to watch the horizon. It’s cruising at its most genuine – unhurried, personal, and deeply connected to the sea.

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Adventure Under Sail – The Star Clippers Difference

Star Clippers offers something profoundly different from conventional cruising – a return to the pure joy of sailing, wrapped in modern comfort. There are no towering atriums, no Broadway-scale production shows, and no crowds of thousands. Instead, you’ll find the creak of polished teak, the rhythm of wind in the rigging, and a crew that greets you by name. It’s an experience perfectly suited for travelers who seek authentic adventure, cultural immersion, and the kind of understated elegance that comes from voyaging under sail. Every port of call is carefully selected for its character and charm, offering immersive encounters with local culture, history, and natural beauty far from the well-worn tourist path.

What’s Included In Your Cruise Package?

Your extraordinary cruise adventure comes with many included amenities from the cruise line. In addition, Extraordinary Adventures offers our clients extra complimentary benefits as well as popular upgrades to create a seamless door-to-door experience.

Included in Every Star Clippers Cruise

  • Complimentary water sports from the marina platform
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail parties
  • Entertainment including local performers and themed deck parties
  • Swimming pools (two on Star Clipper and Star Flyer, three on Royal Clipper)
  • Use of ship’s library and fitness equipment
  • Participation in sailing activities
  • Port taxes and handling fees

Your Extraordinary Adventures Cruise Also Includes

  • Expert guidance choosing your itinerary, ship, and cabin
  • Recommendations on shore excursions
  • Advice on cruise and travel policies and procedures
  • Emergency assistance while on your trip
  • Recommendations on travel insurance

Add Extraordinary Adventures White Glove Service to Receive

  • We arrange car service and transfers
  • We book flights*
  • We reserve hotel stays
  • Pre-cruise and post-cruise travel planning assistance

$250 Planning Fee per stateroom
Currently complimentary for guests who book a Star Clippers cruise through Extraordinary Adventures*.
*Terms and conditions apply.

Frequently Asked Questions About Star Clippers

Star Clippers operates authentic tall sailing ships – not motorized cruise ships with decorative sails. The ships are actively sailed by the crew, and guests are invited to participate in the sailing experience. With only 170 to 227 guests per ship, the intimate atmosphere, casual dress code, and wind-powered voyaging create an experience that feels more like a private yacht adventure than a traditional cruise. You won’t find the mega-ship trappings of conventional cruising here. It’s ideal for travelers who want genuine connection with the sea and off-the-beaten-path destinations that larger vessels simply cannot visit.

Star Clippers sails some of the world’s most beautiful and intimate waterways, including the Eastern and Western Caribbean, the Mediterranean (Greece, Italy, Croatia, and the French Riviera), Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, and beyond), and transatlantic crossings. Their tall ships slip into boutique harbors and secluded bays well beyond the reach of conventional vessels, making every itinerary a journey of true discovery. Each sailing region offers its own character, from the turquoise anchorages of the Grenadines to the ancient ports of the Aegean.

Star Clippers offers a generous fare that includes all meals in the dining room and on deck, complimentary water sports from the ship’s retractable marina platform (kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, waterskiing, windsurfing, and sailing dinghies), use of the ship’s library and fitness equipment, two swimming pools, participation in all sailing activities, the Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail parties, and entertainment including local performers and themed deck parties. Water, coffee, tea, and juices are available throughout the voyage at no extra charge. Alcoholic beverages, gratuities, and shore excursions are additional.

The fleet consists of three magnificent tall sailing ships. Star Clipper and Star Flyer are identical four-masted barquentine sister ships, each standing approximately 226 feet tall and carrying around 170 guests in refined comfort. They are among the tallest tall ships at sea. Royal Clipper is the crown jewel – the world’s largest full-rigged sailing ship with five masts, 42 sails, and capacity for 227 guests. Royal Clipper features a stunning three-deck atrium, an underwater glass viewing porthole in the dining room, three swimming pools, and spacious Owner’s Suites with whirlpool baths and panoramic views.

Yes, a valid passport is required for all Star Clippers voyages. Since itineraries visit international ports across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and beyond, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Some destinations may also require visas depending on your nationality. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor can guide you through the specific documentation requirements for your chosen itinerary so there are no surprises before departure.

Star Clippers offers a single-seating, open-seating dining experience in the main restaurant, with beautifully prepared international cuisine featuring fresh, regionally inspired ingredients. Breakfast and lunch are also served on deck under the sails – a truly memorable way to enjoy a meal at sea. Themed dinners, barbecues on deck, and midnight snacks add variety throughout the voyage. The atmosphere is convivial and relaxed – no assigned tables and no rigid scheduling. You dine when and with whom you choose.

While Star Clippers takes a refreshingly understated approach to onboard programming, enrichment comes naturally through the sailing experience itself. The captain and crew offer insights into navigation, maritime history, and the art of tall ship sailing. Guest speakers and local performers occasionally join select voyages, and port talks prepare you for each destination. The real enrichment, though, lies in the hands-on sailing activities, stargazing sessions on deck, and the immersive connection with the sea that defines every Star Clippers voyage.

Star Clippers can be a wonderful experience for families with older children and teenagers who enjoy active, adventure-oriented travel. The water sports, sailing participation, and casual atmosphere appeal to adventurous young travelers. However, the ships do not feature dedicated kids’ clubs or structured youth programs, so families with very young children may find other cruise lines more suitable. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor can help determine if Star Clippers is the right fit for your family – or recommend an alternative that might work better.

Star Clippers maintains a wonderfully casual and relaxed dress code throughout every voyage. There are no formal nights – resort casual attire is appropriate at all times, both day and evening. Think comfortable, stylish clothing suited for warm-weather sailing. During the day, swimwear and shorts are perfectly fine on deck, while evenings call for smart casual resort wear. This easygoing atmosphere is one of the hallmarks of the Star Clippers experience.

Star Clippers recommends booking 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak-season sailings in the Caribbean and Mediterranean during summer months. With only 170 to 227 guests per ship, popular itineraries and preferred cabin categories can fill quickly. Booking early also gives you the best selection of stateroom locations and categories – particularly the sought-after Owner’s Suites on Royal Clipper. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor can monitor availability and help you secure the ideal sailing at the best possible value.

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What Our Clients Say

Real clients. Real experiences. Never ordinary – always extraordinary.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“These two definitely know their ships, and if they don’t, they know where to find answers. We had never booked with an agent before, but after our first experience with Extraordinary Adventures, we were so pleased that we quickly booked our second cruise shortly after. Their response times are rapid, and their suggestions are immeasurable.”

Sabrina & Marty S

Verified Client · Google Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Scott and Laura were very helpful and professional from the first minute. The information I got saved me money and time. Wonderful, friendly, personal, and quick service. Response within minutes to all my questions. Thank you for the great work.”

Richard & Pascal F

Verified Client

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I gave them a budget, what I wanted, and potential dates. They did the rest! Gave me checklists for what to pack, suggestions of things to do, and the best plans for the biggest bang for our buck. They even checked on us when we returned to be sure we had an enjoyable experience.”

Kristy & Anthony R

Verified Client · Google Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We have tried different venues to purchase cruises and definitely prefer working with Scott and Laura. They have always put our best interest at the forefront. They are professional and easy to contact and take the worry out of our travel plans.”

Michael & Virginia D

Verified Client · YouTube Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Scott and Laura are super knowledgeable and incredibly fast to respond to questions. They helped make our last cruise worry- and stress-free. I have referred two of my friends who used their services and were very happy. They will go out of their way to help. Super friendly!”

Darla C

Verified Client

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Laura and Scott are great people to help assist with any vacation needs. I found them to be very attentive to my wants and needs. They have been very informative, provided great suggestions to help make the most of my vacation, and they are very upfront and honest. I will definitely use Extraordinary Adventures again.”

Joshua & Rachel W

Verified Client · Google Review

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