by Mary Hiernard
Step aboard a unique vessel and explore a different era of sailing, where the traditions of the past blend comfortably with the modern comforts of today.
A clipper is a multi-masted sailing ship, typical of the second half of the 19th century, built for speed to transport perishable goods quickly, thanks to its large sail area and wooden or steel hull. A tall ship refers to any vessel with traditional rigging, whether it is an original or a modern replica.
Founded in 1991 by its owner Mikael Krafft, the Monaco-based company Star Clipper is known for building and operating replicas of some of the world’s most iconic historical sailing ships for luxury cruises.
One of these ships is the Star Flyer, a schooner that navigates our waters. You may spot it anchored off Gustavia during its stopover on our island. This beautiful schooner is 115 meters (377 feet) long and has 83 cabins. It carries a crew of 70 who keep the ship running smoothly and provide attentive service.
With its four masts and over 36,000 square feet of sail, this ship, inspired by traditional 19th-century clippers, sails the seas with a proud and graceful presence. The Star Clipper’s decor takes you back to the golden age of tall ships, with mahogany and teak railings paying homage to maritime tradition, evoking a sense of nostalgia similar to that of the Orient Express. Onboard, you’ll also find an elegant dining room, a piano bar, and an Edwardian-style library with a cozy fireplace.
On certain stopovers, local artists are invited to come on board.
If you feel adventurous, climb up to the crow’s nest—about 100 feet above deck—for a breathtaking view. You can also stretch out on the bowsprit net at the ship’s front, suspended above the water, and watch the marine life below. Or, join the other passengers and help hoist the sails, getting a taste of traditional sailing practices. You might even learn how to tie maritime knots and get an introduction to navigation techniques. Don’t miss the special moment when the ship sets sail: the captain gives the order, and the crew raises the vast, majestic sails to the sound of music by Vangelis.
This unique sailing experience is available with departures from St. Martin.
Two routes are offered, each providing direct access to beaches and bays thanks to the ship’s shallow draft:
Treasure Islands
Philipsburg/St Martin, Road Bay/Anguilla, White Bay/Jost Van Dyke, The Bight/Norman Island, Spanish Town/Virgin Gorda, Basseterre/St. Kitts, South Friar’s Bay/St. Kitts, Gustavia/St Barts, Philipsburg/St Martin.
Leeward Islands
Philipsburg/St Martin, River Bay/Barbuda, Cabrits/Dominica, Terre-de-Haut/Les Saintes, Deshaies/Guadeloupe, Falmouth Harbour/Antigua, Gustavia/St Barts, Philipsburg/St Martin.
You may think you know the Caribbean, but these archipelagos will reveal a new side, immersing you in the nostalgia of luxury cruises and the charm of a bygone century.
