A unique and magical tall-ship experience is what makes Star Clippers truly stand out from the crowd. Imagine the thrill of sailing on a majestic, wind-powered ship that combines the elegance of a mega-yacht with the adventure of authentic maritime travel. If you yearn for the feeling of the wind in your hair, the romance of natural sailing, and the excitement of exploring unique destinations unreachable by larger cruise ships—all while enjoying luxury and comfort—then you're in for a treat.
The Unique Charm of Tall-Ship Sailing
For those new to this extraordinary experience or seasoned sailors seeking a short yet exhilarating getaway, Star Clippers' mini cruises are the perfect introduction. These rare gems offer the essence of tall-ship sailing over a few days, allowing you to dip your toes into the world of maritime exploration. And for those who crave more, each cruise can be extended with a pre- or post-cruise stay. This gives you ample time to immerse yourself in charming coastal destinations, savour local cuisines, and uncover hidden treasures.
Discover hidden gems and iconic ports
Star Clippers’ 2025 Mediterranean mini cruise itineraries convey the essence of this boutique brand’s experience – a combination of history, culture, and adventure. Setting sail from Cannes, for instance, you can discover the city famed for its film festival, upmarket boutiques, and palatial hotels, before calling in at Monaco, the world’s second-smallest independent state, with world-class hotels, luxe shopping, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a superyacht-packed marina.
There are also several shorter sailings from Civitavecchia, the port serving Rome, including an itinerary dropping in at spectacular Sorrento perched up on cliffs overlooking the gorgeous Bay of Naples, with a café-lined square where you can relax over limoncello created from the town’s own luscious lemons. Alternatively, cruise into the Corsican port of Bonifacio with its medieval bastion, ambling its maze of streets and alleyways, and enjoying 360-degree views of the island and of neighbouring Sardinia from the 9th-century citadel.
Relish the intimacy and adventure of maritime travel
Star Clippers ships can visit smaller ports that remain untouched by the hustle of larger cruisers, offering you a rare chance to experience the authentic beauty of the world. Aboard these majestic vessels, you will find yourself embraced by the elegance of a private yacht, with spacious teak decks that invite you to unwind under the sun, refreshing swimming pools, and a welcoming ambiance of informal dining. Imagine sipping cocktails at the Tropical Bar or enjoying intimate evenings at the cosy piano bar, all amidst the romance of open seas. The dedicated crew, with a remarkable guest-to-crew ratio of 2:1, ensures every moment is filled with exceptional service and genuine warmth. Culinary masterpieces prepared by inspired chefs transform dining into a delightful exploration. You can also embrace your adventurous spirit with complimentary water sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing, snorkelling, and swimming available to all passengers.
Leading the way in eco-friendly sailing
Committed to preserving the natural beauty that inspires their voyages, Star Clippers prioritises more sustainable travel. Harnessing the wind—nature’s own power source—as the major propulsion for its vessels, these ships glide across the ocean with minimal environmental impact. Whenever possible, engines are silenced, allowing the ships to sail emission-free under full sail, a breathtaking and more environmentally conscious experience. Even when engines are used, Star Clippers rely on the cleanest, highest-quality, low-sulphur gas oil, showcasing their commitment to greener voyaging. This has been recognised by the industry, with Star Flyer becoming the first ship to receive the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate, followed by Star Clipper and Royal Clipper, highlight Star Clippers’ dedication not only to exceptional travel experiences but also to a more sustainable future.
To book your mini cruise with Star Clippers, call your Travel Counsellor today.
As we look ahead to 2026, the travel possibilities are endless. From off-the-beaten-track gems to long-standing favourites, the world is yours to explore. If you need a little inspiration or simply want help narrowing down your choices, we’ve listed our top six destinations to visit next year, whether you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes, sun-soaked beaches, or energetic cities.
There are so many great reasons to experience certain destinations in the shoulder seasons – that sweet spot between a region’s peak season and off-season. Think fewer crowds and queues for major attractions, better-value flights and other travel, and a more authentic experience of the destination. We’ve put our heads together to share a few of our favourite places that can be just as good or even better outside of high season.
Lisbon is a city bursting with charm, history, and creativity, making it an excellent destination for families seeking an unforgettable city break. From cobbled streets and panoramic views to sunny parks and cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone in Portugal’s lively capital. And when it comes to picking the perfect base for your family adventure, ME Lisbon is a luxury lifestyle hotel that blends sophisticated comfort with family-friendly facilities. A stay at ME Lisbon ensures that every family member, from toddlers to grandparents, enjoys a warm and welcoming stay.
