Sail on a Tall Ship
With four massive masts and sixteen massive sails, the Star Flyers will drop the jaw of both sailing enthusiasts and newbies, exploring coves, beaches and island communities where big ships simply cannot go. The Flyer accommodates up to 160 passengers, served by attentive 74 crew, and combines luxury (think polished mahogany and brass interiors) with adventure (climb the mast and feel that wind!) My favourite spot was the bowsprit, a thick netting at the front of the boat where I felt the spray of the ocean, and spotted some curious dolphins beneath me. I shared a table with cruise veterans who had been on dozens of ships around the world. Not surprisingly, they told me the Star Flyer had been their favourite ship of all. Sailing is just a different way to do it, and burning just 15% of the fuel of a similar sized ship, it’s an eco-friendly way to cruise as well.
Length of Trip : 7 Nights depending on the itinerary
Cost : Click here for the latest prices and itineraries from Star Clippers
Best time to go : December to April, when it's cooler, less humid and not so rainy.
Wheelchair friendly : Contact Star Clippers if arrangements can be made.
Family friendly : Better for older kids, and perfect for multigenerational trips.
Where to eat : All meals are served on-board, from huge continental breakfasts and delicious lunch buffets to sit-down a'la carte dinners that would stack up to fine dining anywhere.
Official Site : https://www.starclippers.com/
Where to Stay : Staterooms are all en-suite, very comfortable and spotlessly clean. You do not have a private balcony on a sail boat, and you don't need one. Click here for the Star Flyer deck plan.
Getting There : Most Caribbean sailings depart from St Maarten or Barbados. There are regular flights from US hubs to both locations.
Note from Robin : Sailing on a luxury tall ship brings so many things together: the ocean, the islands, the history, the comforts and adventures. Don't miss the Baths in the British Virgin Islands, which lived up to its reputation. As with all adventures, I find the more you participates in activities, the more fun you'll have. Bring some pirate-ware for Pirate Night, and don't miss the screening of Around the Horn which is amazing. Bring some books, and it's perfectly understandable to hang back on the deck if you don't feel like visiting yet another gorgeous beach! Seasickness is not uncommon, but it seldom got too bad even when the winds were howling (and I get seasick). Wear sunblock, and book those massages early as they fill up! Do NOT miss out on the opportunity to climb the mast, and hang out on the bowsprit.