Star Flyer Cruise: Life Under Sail on a Tall Ship
Tall ship cruises · Star Flyer
I’ve just returned from the most magical sailing adventure aboard one of Star Clippers’ three magnificent tall ships. It was a Star Flyer cruise! I’m not sure if that counts as sailing, or cruising – but I simply have to share it with you!
For those who don’t know, Star Clippers operate three fully rigged sailing ships. Specifically, Star Clipper and Star Flyer carry 166 guests each, and Royal Clipper carries 227. With just 120 guests on my sailing, it felt delightfully personal – spacious, relaxed and wonderfully friendly. This is no typical cruise; it is the romance of historic clipper ship sailing brought to life with modern comfort.
In short
A Star Flyer cruise is a holiday on a fully rigged tall ship run by Star Clippers. Star Flyer carries up to 166 guests, with six-course dinners with wine, complimentary water sports, an open bridge, and the chance to climb to the first crow’s nest. Star Clippers sail the Mediterranean in summer and the Caribbean in winter, and our Caribbean Star Flyer cruise starts from £1,950 per person, cruise only.
166
guests at most on Star Flyer
120
guests on my sailing
6
courses at dinner, with wine
£1,950
from, per person, cruise only in the Caribbean
Day one
Boarding in Nice
From the moment I boarded in Nice, I was enchanted by the friendly crew and the sound of live music. Then, with a drink in my hand, we prepared to sail away on our Mediterranean adventure.
Soon after, I stepped into my cabin on our Star Flyer Cruise. Beautifully appointed, with traditional furnishings in deep blue and gold, it felt instantly welcoming, full of old world maritime character.
On board
Star Flyer Cruise Dining: Sunrise to Six Courses
One thing is certain – you will never go hungry on a Star Flyer cruise! There’s an early riser’s breakfast for those up with the sun. Afterwards, a full breakfast, buffet lunch, afternoon snacks, and a six-course dinner with wine are served.
Finally, just when you think you cannot eat another thing, there is a late-night snack…
Dinner quickly became one of my favourite parts of the day. Before each evening meal, the dishes are displayed so you can see the menu. As a result, lively conversations start and debates follow about what to choose.
Plus, there is always a vegetarian option. For anyone still undecided, a succulent steak is available, cooked exactly to your liking.
As the live piano music begins, guests start to gather, a glass in hand. Meanwhile, soft notes drift through the ship, a lovely way to ease into the evening. The crew are attentive but never intrusive.
They always appear at just the right moment (usually as your wine glass is about to be empty). It’s these thoughtful touches that make dining on board a Star Flyer cruise feel so effortlessly special.
Under sail
Under Full Sail: The Vangelis Moment
There is nothing quite like the moment when the sails are raised to the sound of “Conquest of Paradise” by Vangelis. Standing on deck with a glass of champagne as the wind fills the canvas is striking on a Star Flyer cruise. Indeed, as the ship glides forward under her own power, it is a moment that stays with you.
Most of the work is handled by the skilled crew and the ship’s winches. However, guests are welcome to lend a hand and feel the pull of the ropes as the sails rise above. It’s a wonderful way to be part of life on board and share in the spirit of traditional seamanship.
If you are feeling adventurous during your Star Flyer cruise, you can climb the rigging to the first crow’s nest. In fact, panoramic views across the sea and sails make it so memorable.
Star Clippers is the only cruise line that offers this, and it’s something I’d highly recommend. I did it myself, as you can see in the picture above!
When I wanted a quieter moment, I made my way to the bowsprit netting above the water. There I stretched out as the ship moved through waves, felt the sea breeze, and watched the world drift by.
There’s also an open bridge policy, so you’re welcome to visit the bridge at any time. You can chat with the Captain and officers, and see the art of traditional navigation in action.
Activities
Life on (and in) the Water
For those who love being active, there’s plenty to do. On a Star Flyer cruise kayaks, paddle boards, dinghy sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and snorkelling are complimentary. There’s something truly special about slipping into the clear blue sea, surrounded by nothing but open water and sunshine.
If you prefer your relaxation with less effort, there is always a spot on deck to stretch out. Alternatively, soak up the sun and sea breeze, or treat yourself to a massage on board.
The bowsprit netting, and Star Flyer under full sail.
Routes and prices
Voyages to Suit You, Prices to Match
Star Clippers cruise in the Mediterranean throughout the summer and the Caribbean in winter. They offer a wonderful choice of itineraries to suit every taste from charming short escapes to longer, more adventurous voyages. For true sea lovers, there are also transatlantic crossings twice a year – the ultimate experience under sail.
If you are considering a Star Flyer cruise, our Caribbean Star Flyer cruise starts from £1,950 per person, cruise only. Therefore, it’s outstanding value for such a special experience, when you consider what’s included:
- your accommodation,
- transport between beautiful ports,
- superb food,
- complimentary water sports,
- the chance to climb the crow’s nest, and
- the sheer joy of being under full sail.
Caribbean Star Flyer
Island hopping in the Caribbean on Star Flyer, from November to March.
All our tall ship cruises
Star Clippers and Sea Cloud voyages in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.
Plan
Plan Your Star Flyer Cruise
To sum up, we’re here to make your holiday unforgettable from the very start. We can help arrange flights, pre- or post-cruise accommodation, and all local transfers. We’re committed to a seamless experience from booking to boarding.
So, if you’d like to speak with someone who’s experienced a Star Flyer cruise first-hand, ask for Iwona or Nevena! We’ll be delighted to share our insights and help you find your perfect Star Clippers adventure. If you’d like to start planning, click one of the options below.
Common questions
Star Flyer cruise: your questions answered
How many guests does Star Flyer carry?
Star Flyer carries up to 166 guests, like her sister ship Star Clipper, while Royal Clipper carries 227. On our sailing there were just 120 guests, so it felt spacious, relaxed, and friendly.
What’s included on a Star Flyer cruise?
Your accommodation, transport between ports, all your meals, from an early riser’s breakfast to a six-course dinner with wine, and complimentary water sports such as kayaks, paddle boards, dinghy sailing, water skiing, windsurfing, and snorkelling.
Can guests help to sail the ship?
Yes. The skilled crew and the ship’s winches do most of the work, but guests are welcome to lend a hand as the sails are raised. There’s also an open bridge policy, so you can visit the bridge and chat with the Captain and officers.
Can you climb the mast on a Star Flyer cruise?
Yes. Guests can climb the rigging to the first crow’s nest for panoramic views across the sea and sails. Star Clippers is the only cruise line that offers this.
Where does Star Flyer sail?
Star Clippers cruise in the Mediterranean in summer and the Caribbean in winter, with transatlantic crossings twice a year. Our Caribbean Star Flyer cruise sails from November to March.
Ready to sail?
Talk to us about a Star Flyer cruise
Ask for a personalised quote, or call our team to speak with someone who has sailed on Star Flyer.
See the Caribbean Star Flyer cruiseSee all tall ship cruises
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