August 7th 2024.
Are you interested in sustainable travel? If so, you'll be thrilled to know that there are now luxurious and elegant cruises available on tall ships. These majestic vessels may bring to mind images of pirates on the high seas, but they offer an experience unlike any other.
With their towering sails catching the wind, tall ships are one of the most eco-friendly ways to explore the world. In fact, Metro's Cruise Editor, Richard Mellor, has put together a list of sustainable sailings that redefine luxury slow-travel. These ships offer a unique blend of history, modern luxury, and sustainability that will leave you wondering why we don't travel this way more often.
Tall ships come in various types, including windjammers, clippers, schooners, and ketches. They are traditional sailing vessels that harken back to the days of explorers like Columbus and Cook. Despite their retro feel, these ships still offer a luxurious experience and the ability to dock at smaller points. Plus, they are all eco-friendly, with engines switched off whenever possible. Some itineraries even allow guests to assist the crew, although this is usually optional.
One example of a luxurious tall ship is the Royal Clipper, which is part of the Star Clippers fleet. This 440-foot-long beauty has 42 sails and can accommodate 166 guests. It boasts three swimming pools and the same opulent decor as its two smaller sister ships, the Star Clipper and Star Flyer. These ships also offer tropical-themed bars, Edwardian-style libraries, and activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. In the autumn, the Star Flyer will embark on a week-long journey through the Caribbean's Leeward Islands, perfect for anyone seeking some winter sun.
For a taste of history and adventure, you can join the Florette on a voyage around Italy's Aeolian Islands. This 103-year-old wooden windjammer has been restored to its original leisure purposes and offers 11 cozy cabins. Guests even have the option to sleep on deck in hammocks! This autumn, the ship will set sail for a circuit of the Aeolian Islands, an archipelago located north of Sicily.
If you're looking for a truly luxurious experience, the Sea Cloud windjammers are a must-see. The original ship, Sea Cloud, was launched in 1931 for the wealthiest woman in the US at the time, Marjorie Merriweather Post. The ship still exudes bygone splendor with its marble fireplaces and French antiques. Its two sister ships, Sea Cloud II and Sea Cloud Spirit, offer the same level of elegance and luxury. Guests can enjoy complimentary snacks at night and water sports during the day. In the summer, the ships sail through the Mediterranean, and in the winter, they head to the Caribbean.
For those seeking a more unique and adventurous experience, Another World Adventures offers tall ship itineraries that range from Atlantic crossings to an 83-day epic journey from Cape Town to the UK. One of their most exciting trips is a voyage along the coast of Chilean Patagonia on a herring drifter. Guests can assist the crew as they make their way from Puerto Natales to Puerto Montt, with opportunities to hike and explore along the way.
And if you're looking for a staycation option, the Bessie Ellen is a perfect choice. This 120-year-old ketch offers short breaks, week-long cruises, and ten-day voyages in Cornwall, Scotland, and Scandinavia. The ship's old cargo-hold has been transformed into a spacious saloon and dining area, while guests sleep in bunks and share a shower room. On deck, guests are expected to lend a hand, making this a perfect experience for first-timers. The ship's Hebridean itinerary takes guests on a flexible journey from Oban, with stops at Staffa, Iona, and Eigg, and plenty of time for hiking and exploring.
So, are you ready to set sail on a tall ship and experience a truly luxurious and sustainable way of travel? With so many options to choose from, you'll be sure to find the perfect voyage for you.
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