In 1991 Star Clippers unveiled a new tall-ship alternative to sophisticated travelers, whose desires included having an adventure at sea but not on board a conventional cruise ship. Star Clippers vessels are four- and five-masted sailing beauties -- the world's largest barquentine and full-rigged sailing ships. Filled with modern, high-tech equipment as well as the amenities of private yachts, the ships rely on sail power while at sea unless conditions require the assistance of the engines. Minimal heeling, usually less than 6%, is achieved through judicious control of the sails.

A boyhood dream became a cruise-line reality when Swedish entrepreneur Mikael Krafft launched his fleet of authentic recreations of classic, 19th century clipper ships.

The day officially begins when the captain holds an informative daily briefing on deck with a bit of storytelling tossed in. Star Clippers are not cruise ships in the ordinary sense with strict agendas and pages of activities. You're free to do what you please day and night, but many passengers join the crew members to raise sails or for some of the lighthearted events like crab-racing contests, scavenger hunts, and a talent night. The informality of singing around the piano bar typifies an evening on one of these ships, although in certain ports local performers come on board to spice up the action with an authentic taste of the local music and arts.

The lack of rigid scheduling is one of Star Clippers' most appealing attractions. The bridge is always open, and passengers are welcome to peer over the captain's shoulder as he plots the ship's course. Crew members are happy to demonstrate how to splice a line, reef a sail, or tie a proper knot.

As attractive as the ships' interiors are, the focal point of Star Clippers cruises is the outdoors. Plan to spend a lot of time on deck soaking in the sun, sea, and sky. It doesn't get any better than that. Consider also that each ship has atleast two swimming pools. Granted, they are tiny, but they are a refreshing feature uncommon on true sailing ships and all but the most lavish yachts.

Although the Star Clippers Ships are motorized, their engines are shut down whenever crews unfurl the sails (36,000 square feet on Star Clipper and 56,000 square feet on Royal Clipper) to capture the wind. On a typical cruise, the ships rely exclusively on sail power anytime favorable conditions prevail. However, when necessary, they will cruise under motor power to meet the requirements of their itineraries.

Food

Not noted for gourmet fare, the international cuisine is what you would expect from a trendy shoreside bistro, albeit an elegant one. Fresh tropical fruits and fish are among the best choices from Star Clippers' limited galleys (these are, after all, sailing vessels, and everything is yacht-size). Caribbean-inspired entrées, vegetarian, and light dishes are also featured. Lunch buffets are quite a spread of seafood, salads, and grilled items. On select itineraries an outdoor barbecue is served on shore.

The dining rooms are open-seating, allowing you to dine with whom you wish at your leisure during lengthy meal periods. Early risers on each ship find a Continental breakfast offered at the Tropical Bar, and coffee is always available in the Piano Bar. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style in the dining rooms. For the more formal evening meal, a maître d' is present, but it isn't uncommon for passengers on these small ships to arrange their own groups of dinner partners.

With the exception of occupants of Owners Suites and Deluxe Suites on Royal Clipper, there is no room service available unless you are sick and can't make it to the dining room for meals.

Fitness & Recreation

Formal exercise sessions take a back seat to water sports, although aerobics classes and swimming are featured on all ships. Only Royal Clipper has a marina platform that can be lowered in calm waters to access water sports and diving; however, the smaller ships replicate the experience by using motorized launches to reach reefs for snorkeling. A gym-spa with an array of exercise equipment, free weights, spa treatments and unisex hair services are also found only on Royal Clipper. Despite the lack of a formal fitness center on Star Clipper, morning aerobics classes are usually held on deck for active passengers. Massages, manicures, and pedicures can be arranges as well.

Your Shipmates

Star Clippers cruises draw active, upscale American and European couples from their 30s on up, who enjoy sailing but in a casually sophisticated atmosphere with modern conveniences. Many sailings are equally divided between North Americans and Europeans, so announcements are made in several languages accordingly.

This is not a cruise line for the physically challenged; there are no elevators or ramps, nor are staterooms or bathrooms wheelchair-accessibile. Gangways and shore launches can also be difficult to negotiate.

Dress Code

All evenings are elegant casual, so slacks with an open-collar shirt are fine for men, and sundresses, skirts, or pants with a sweater or blouse suggested for women. Coats and ties are never required.

Shorts and T-shirts are not allowed in the dining room at dinner.

Junior Cruisers

Star Clippers ships are adult-oriented. Although children are welcome and may participate in shipboard activities suited to their ability, there are no dedicated youth facilities. Parents are responsible for the behavior and entertainment of their children. Mature teens who can live without video games and a lot of other teens are the best young sailors.

Service

Service is friendly and gracious, similar to what you would find in a boutique hotel or restaurant. You may find that you have to flag down a waiter for a second cup of coffee, though.

Tipping

Gratuities are not included in the cruise fare and are extended in cash at the sole discretion of passengers based on the level of service performed. An automatic 15% gratuity is added to each passenger's bar bill.

Past Passengers

Top Gallant is the loyalty club for past passengers. No specific fare discount is offered to members; however, they receive a newsletter and special offers on fare reductions from time to time. Nearly 60% of all passengers choose to make a repeat voyage on Star Clippers ships.

Star Clippers.
Phone: 305/442-0550 or 800/442-0551
www.starclippers.com