At the end of a memorable seven-night Southern Caribbean cruise on the Royal Clipper, the ship’s hotel manager, Peter Burkhard, took the opportunity to honor a special guest. Little Beatrice, who hadn’t even turned one yet, was recognized as the youngest passenger ever to sail aboard the Royal Clipper. This gesture not only brought joy to everyone on board but also highlighted the significant age range of the guests. Most passengers were over 50, with many being 70 and above. Little Beatrice’s presence on the ship significantly lowered the average age of the passengers, leading to a celebratory atmosphere filled with applause and cheers.
The Royal Clipper, the flagship of the Star Clippers line, offers a unique and adventurous cruising experience. Unlike modern cruise ships, Royal Clipper is designed as a traditional tall ship and modeled after the historic German-built Preussen, a five-masted cargo ship dating back to 1902. With a capacity for 227 guests, it provides a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere. The ship’s interior, adorned with dark wood paneling, leather furnishings, brass fixtures, and nautical decor, exudes a classic 19th-century style. Despite its elegance, the ship maintains a relaxed and unpretentious ambiance, making guests feel comfortable and at home.
Royal Clipper offers a variety of staterooms, ranging from cozy inside cabins to spacious owner’s suites. While the accommodations may be small by industry standards, the emphasis on this cruise is not on the cabins but on the deck experiences. With 54,000 square feet of billowing sails, the ship relies heavily on sail power, providing guests with a unique and thrilling sailing adventure. Watching the crew raise and lower the sails each day becomes a fascinating spectacle for passengers, as they witness the ship’s remarkable maneuverability. The small cabins become insignificant when compared to the breathtaking views and the sense of freedom experienced on deck.
The dining experience on the Royal Clipper is unparalleled. With one main dining room, guests enjoy ample breakfast and lunch buffets, followed by open-seating dinner service. The ship’s chef showcases his skills during dinner, offering extravagant and inspired multicourse menus. While there are no specialty dining venues or stage shows, the intimate and cozy atmosphere contributes to a more personal dining experience.
Evening entertainment on the Royal Clipper includes the talented pianist who performs solo in the Piano Lounge every afternoon. In the early evening, the pianist joins a singer in the open-air Tropical Bar. While the ship doesn’t provide a vibrant nightlife scene, guests can enjoy some dancing in the Tropical Bar before retiring for a peaceful and restful night’s sleep.
The Southern Caribbean itinerary of the Royal Clipper takes guests to a variety of stunning destinations. On the cruise mentioned, stops included Antigua, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Iles des Saintes, and Martinique. Guests had the opportunity to partake in a range of shore excursions, including kayaking, rum-making, snorkeling, and hiking. The ship’s watersports platform, located at the stern, is opened whenever weather conditions permit, allowing guests to enjoy water activities right from the ship.
In today’s world of mega cruise ships with countless amenities, the Royal Clipper offers a refreshing and nostalgic alternative. It takes passengers back to a time when sailing was an adventure and ships were powered by the wind. The small cabin sizes and lack of elevators may not appeal to everyone, but those seeking a unique and exclusive experience will be enchanted by the Royal Clipper. With its classic design, friendly atmosphere, and thrilling sailing experiences, the Royal Clipper stands apart from the traditional cruise ship experience.
A voyage aboard the Royal Clipper is a journey into the past combined with an exciting adventure on the high seas. It offers the opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and connect with the rich history of sailing. From the elegant interior to the billowing sails and intimate entertainment, everything about the Royal Clipper exudes charm and uniqueness. So, if you’re looking for a cruise experience that is distinctly different from the rest, set sail on the Royal Clipper and embark on a voyage you will never forget.
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