Royal Clipper Cruise Review: The World’s Largest Sailing Ship
The Royal Clipper is not your typical cruise ship. As one of three vessels in the Star Clippers fleet, she sails with five masts and 42 sails, earning her the title of the world’s largest fully-rigged sailing ship. Carrying 227 passengers across 114 cabins, the Royal Clipper offers an intimate seafaring experience unlike anything found on a mainstream cruise line.
Where does the Royal Clipper sail? During the winter and spring, she cruises throughout the Caribbean. Each summer and fall, she relocates to the Mediterranean — making her a year-round option for travelers seeking an authentic sailing adventure.
What Kind of Cruise Is Star Clippers?
Star Clippers is a family-run cruise line, and that ethos shows onboard. Guests describe the experience as feeling like a personal guest of the owners rather than one of thousands on a mass-market vessel. The passenger mix skews slightly younger than that of traditional cruise lines, draws from many different countries, and includes a high percentage of repeat guests — all of which create a warm, community-like atmosphere at sea.
5 Reasons to Choose a Royal Clipper Cruise
1. The Itineraries: Small Ports, Big Experiences
One of the Royal Clipper’s greatest advantages is her size. Because she is a sailing ship — not a mega-ship — she can access smaller, lesser-known ports that larger cruise vessels cannot reach. Rather than docking at a busy cruise terminal, she typically drops anchor offshore, and guests tender into port via lifeboat.
This means you arrive in port as an explorer, not as part of a tourist flood. You can wander cobblestone streets, discover local restaurants, and experience each destination more authentically.
What excursions does Royal Clipper offer? Itineraries blend cultural, historical, and active stops. Shore excursions range from guided historical walking tours to cycling and kayaking adventures. Independent exploration is also encouraged — though researching your ports in advance is strongly recommended, as onboard information sheets cover only basic port logistics.
Pro tip: Research each port before you sail. Know in advance which streets to wander, which local trattoria to try for lunch, and which hidden spots are worth seeking out.
2. The Crow’s Nest and the Bowsprit: Unique Experiences You Won’t Find Elsewhere
Can you climb the mast on a cruise ship? On the Royal Clipper, yes. Guests are invited to climb 65 feet above deck to the crow’s nest, a lookout point offering unobstructed 360-degree views of the ship and surrounding sea. It is one of the most memorable experiences in cruising.
Equally special is the bowsprit — the netting at the ship’s bow that hangs directly over the ocean. Lying in the bowsprit with the sea below and the sky above, feeling the rhythm of the sails, is something no resort or land-based vacation can replicate.
3. The Top Deck: Space, Sun, and Social Atmosphere
The Royal Clipper’s top deck is designed for relaxation and socializing. Highlights include:
- Shaded lounging areas for reading or resting
- The Tropical Bar, where guests gather for afternoon cocktails
- A central swimming pool plus two hot tubs
The deck’s atmosphere is unhurried and convivial — a natural gathering point at sea.
4. The Water Platform: Swimming and Water Sports at Sea
When the Royal Clipper anchors offshore, the stern water platform opens to guests. This is a standout feature of small-ship sailing cruises. From the platform, guests can:
- Jump directly into the sea for a swim
- Borrow kayaks, paddleboards, or small sailboats
- Try water skiing with crew assistance
- Float and relax in the open water
This direct, unmediated connection to the ocean is rare and is one of the defining experiences of a Star Clippers voyage.
5. The Crew: 110 People from 15 Countries
The Royal Clipper’s crew of 110 is as international as its passengers. Shipboard announcements are made in English, German, and French, reflecting the global guest mix. Dedicated cabin stewards maintain immaculate cabins and attend to individual needs throughout the voyage.
On the final evening, the crew hosts a World Sing-Along — a celebration of their 15 home countries that guests consistently describe as one of the cruise’s highlights.
What You Should Know Before Booking a Royal Clipper Cruise
The Royal Clipper delivers an exceptional experience, but it differs significantly from larger cruise ships. Here is what to expect:
| Feature | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Room service | Available only to select cabin categories (Deck 3 and above) |
| Beverage packages | Not offered — but drinks are affordably priced |
| Elevators | None — four decks connected by stairs |
| Entertainment | Nightly crew performances at the Tropical Bar; no theater shows or casino |
| Electrical outlets | 220V European plugs — bring a converter |
| Captain’s Gala Dinner | The one formal evening: cocktail attire for women, jacket for men |
| Theme Night | One themed evening per cruise (e.g., Pirate Night) — costumes optional but fun |
Is the Royal Clipper Right for You?
The Royal Clipper is ideal for travelers who want to feel the wind in the sails, explore ports that larger ships cannot reach, and connect with a small, international community at sea. It rewards those who value experience over amenity — authenticity over scale.
If you are accustomed to the full-service amenities of a large luxury cruise line, it is worth calibrating expectations. What the Royal Clipper lacks in size, she more than compensates for in soul.
