Cruising, But Not As You Know It
“There are some ships that instantly capture your imagination, and for me, the iconic Star Clippers sailing ship Star Clipper had always been one of them. So, when I found out my VIP trip would be onboard this beautiful vessel, I was absolutely delighted. Safe to say, she did not disappoint.
A Smooth Start to the Adventure
I flew from Bristol with Ryanair, and honestly, departing from Bristol made the whole journey so much easier, no long trip to London required. With a midday flight, the airport was fairly quiet too, making check-in and security completely fuss-free.
After landing in Malaga, we expected long queues because of the new EU entry protocols, but everything moved surprisingly quickly and smoothly. Before we knew it, we were in our transfer and heading into the city.
We stayed overnight in Malaga at the lovely Novotel Malaga Centro, which was perfectly located for exploring the old town. That evening, we joined a tapas and wine tour, an excellent way to discover the city and start the trip properly.
First Impressions of Star Clipper
The moment I stepped onboard Star Clipper, I knew this was going to be something special.
This is cruising, but not as most people know it.
Forget giant theatres, glittering atriums and packed pool decks. Instead, think polished teak decks, billowing sails, cosy lounges and an atmosphere that feels more like being aboard a private yacht than a cruise ship.
My cabin perfectly reflected the ship’s traditional style, with dark wood furnishings, navy carpets, a comfortable double bed and a classic porthole window. The ship itself is absolutely beautiful, designed in the style of a traditional clipper ship while still offering all the comfort you need.
And the food? Outstanding.
Fresh salads, vegetables and fruit were available daily, alongside excellent fish, meat and vegetarian dishes. The desserts were genuinely hard to resist, and with wine included at meals (and only a few euros for a top-up glass to enjoy on deck afterwards), it was very easy to settle into ship life.
Entertainment onboard was wonderfully different too. One evening we enjoyed stargazing with the crew, another featured a hilariously entertaining crew fashion show, while most nights ended with music and dancing under the stars. Personally, I’d happily swap big cruise productions for an evening of stargazing any day, it felt magical.
Granada: History, Views & Sunshine
After travelling inland through the Andalusian countryside, we arrived in glorious 28°C sunshine and joined our guide for a walking tour through this incredible city. We wandered downhill alongside the breathtaking Alhambra, taking in both the fascinating stories and the spectacular views across Granada below.
The cathedral offered a wonderfully cool escape from the heat and was every bit as impressive as you’d imagine.
A Magical Day at Sea
Sea days onboard Star Clipper are something truly special.
One morning, I was sitting on the top deck at 6am with a coffee in hand, waiting for sunrise. Watching the golden light slowly creep across the dark sky was unforgettable.
This was also the day I tackled the ship’s crow’s nest. I won’t lie I climbed it with my heart in my mouth! The views from the top were both incredible and terrifying in equal measure, but I was twice as happy afterwards knowing I’d actually done it.
Later that afternoon, we relaxed in the nets beneath the bowsprit before helping the crew hoist the sails as evening arrived. It’s these little moments that make sailing with Star Clippers feel so immersive and unique.
Ibiza Without the Crowds
Because Star Clipper is a true clipper ship, we were able to sail directly into Ibiza Old Town without docking at a huge cruise terminal.
Within minutes of stepping ashore, we were wandering through the narrow cobbled streets of the old town, soaking up the atmosphere. We climbed up towards the castle for postcard-worthy views across the harbour before spending the afternoon relaxing on a nearby beach with a few sea swims thrown in for good measure.
I honestly didn’t expect April weather to be quite so lovely.
Palma, Majorca
Our final stop was Palma in Majorca, where again the ship docked incredibly close to the old town.
A short bus ride brought us to the stunning cathedral, and from there we explored the maze of pedestrianised streets filled with little shops, cafés and bars. For anyone wanting one final dip before heading home, the beach was also close by.
My Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a sailing with Star Clippers, my biggest advice is this: travel with an open mind.
This isn’t cruising in the traditional sense and that’s exactly why I loved it so much.
Leave the sequins, formal nights and giant theatre shows behind. Instead, fall in love with star-filled skies, the sound of sails catching the wind and the feeling of being aboard your own private yacht.
I loved every single minute.” Lisa Holdroff, Assistant Manager Falmouth. Reach out to Lisa today to find out more about Star Clippers.
