This sailing ship from Star Clippers was completed in 1991 as the first of two large barkentine-rigged ships. Her sister ship carries the name
Star Clipper.
They represent the dream of Swedish yacht-owner Mikael Krafft, and together, they recall a spiffed-up passenger version of the fast cargo clippers of the mid-19th century.
The larger and newer running mate, Royal Clipper, has more amenities and seems more powerful than her smaller, yachtlike siblings. The crew of 70 consists of mostly European officers and an international staff. This 170-passenger ship uses sail power as much as possible, though a diesel engine ensures timely arrivals.
Krafft, a Swedish entrepreneur, is still fulfilling his goal to build even more spectacular ships with a new ship in the works that will outclass even the Royal Clipper.
English is the main language, with passengers of all income levels hailing from Europe, Australia and America. It's an entirely democractic society on board, social and utterly casual. The shared experiences on deck watching the sail handling engender a camaraderie that often translates into different nationalities dining together at open-sitting meals. Children will be few in number, but teenagers could very well enjoy the experience as long as they can accept their minority status.
The Star Flyer has now moved to year-round cruising from Tahiti in French Polynesia. The bread and butter itineraries are 7 days to islands such as Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa'a and Bora Bora, all in the Society chain. Longer 10- and 11-day cruises include the Society Islands and add the Tuamotu Atolls. The emphasis is on water activities and beachcombing on small, secluded islands.
The bar, located amidships under a canvas awning, lies between the refined, panelled Edwardian-style library and the somewhat rigid seating in the main lounge, and is often the locale for deck games that lead to convivial evenings chatting and dancing under the stars. The relaxed ambience here fosters camaraderie amongst the international clientele.
Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style with freshly cooked omletes and a carvery, whereas dinner is a la carte. Dress is always casual, service is warm and friendly, and the food, while always in need of improvement, does nothing to take away from the wonderful sailing experience that is the main draw. The open deck running the full length of the ship holds two pools, numerous deck chairs in several locations. Inside there is a small shop selling mostly sportswear. Passengers tend to be fit, as this ship lacks elevators and most landings are by tender or Zodiac, and life onboard centers around the out of doors, the beach and watersports.
Occasional shore picnics are held on secluded beaches, and use of snorkels, banana boats and water skis is free. There is an extensive scuba diving program for an extra fee. Reclining in the netting over the waves at the bowsprit provides one of the most unique and delightful experiences at sea, and organized climbs with a harness up the main mast to the crow's nest are offered.
The standard cabin aboard is compact but inviting, with polished mahogany and brass accents, a phone, TV with VCR, safe, and small bath with hand-held shower, hair dryer and robes. Outside cabins have portholes. The eight large top-category cabins have marble-lined windows and baths, but deck noise may spoil their elegance.
This is a happy ship with adventurous ports, much comfort and good value. Both Star Clipper and Star Flyer fall neatly in the middle of the sail ship experiences: less expensive and luxurious (but definitely more authentic) than the Windstar ships, and less elegant and pricey than Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II.
