The Caribbean has long been synonymous with words such as paradise, bliss and heaven-on-earth, but there is definitely a good reason for this. Soft white sand underfoot, transparent turquoise waters and temperatures that make you wonder if you will ever need a jumper again are just a few things that will mean you instantly fall in love with the many islands that make up this infamous holiday location.
Barbados
The Grenadines
Grenada
St Vincent
Bequia
Martinique
St Lucia
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
On the wild and rugged east coast of Barbados, the isolated beaches are the colour of sunrise, the red sands having blown all the way across the Atlantic from the Sahara. The easternmost island of the Windwards, and indeed, of the entire Caribbean, reaches out to Africa and the Old World, as if not quite part of the New. Bridgetown, Barbados, is an interesting town full of contrasts. George Washington actually slept here! Trafalgar Square reminds you that the laidback, rum- and fun-loving island's British influenced heritage includes revered traditions like cricket and high tea.
Thirty islands and specks of sand make up the gloriously untouched Grenadines. We'll call on one of these Islands, for a blissful, laid-back beach day. We're sure, you'll never be disappointed.
The aromas of nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla baking in the sun - these are the tropical flavours of Grenada. From the horseshoe shaped Carenage at St. George's, follow the Sendall Tunnel (hand-built in 1895) to the Esplanade and old Ft. George for a spectacular view of Grenada.
Four small islets, virtually deserted but enormously appealing for those who love underwater exploration, Tobago Cays is a national park where snorkelling is superb.
Royal Clipper usually anchors in the lee of ruggedly beautiful Young Island lying just 54 feet off the southern tip of St. Vincent which is just a 10 minute ferry ride away. The natural harbour of Port Elizabeth at Bequia the world. The exquisite waterfront beckons you for a gentle stroll along the harbour - Followed in the afternoon by Admiralty Bay, Bequia
Martinique is the classic French Caribbean island. Wild and mysterious, yet urbane and sophisticated, it is France with a tropical twist, with something for almost everyone. You won't be able to resist the charms of spicy Creole cooking and tempting boutiques in Fort de France.
Marigot Bay, one of the prettiest anchorages in the Caribbean, is surrounded by lush hills and ringed by drooping coconut palms. Our alternate stop, the little Port Town of Soufrière was named after a nearby volcano. Prettier sights are to be seen at Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths where you can walk through the gardens and take a dip in the pool under the waterfalls.
Time to say goodbye to friends you have made and start your journey home.
Royal Clipper
Royal Clipper carries just 227 guests in luxurious style. The spacious decks include three inviting swimming pools. Find your very own world of privacy on one of the hidden balconies on either side of the bow, or go to even further lengths to get the best seat in the house. Passengers are invited to climb the mast (with safety harness provided) and take in the views from the converted crow’s nest which not only offers the chance for a brief moment of reflection, but also provides the most unparalleled views of the lands and seas around you.
If you thought the exterior areas were impressive, you will be even more amazed by Royal Clipper’s interior spaces. Included in these is a three-deck atrium that enables sunlight to flood into the elegantly appointed, three-tiered dining room; featuring unreserved seating, meticulously prepared cuisine and an easy-going dress code which aims to make everyone feel included.
And if your time isn't taken up by searching out distant lands from the crow’s nest or enjoying a lovingly prepared meal in the dining room; you can always take a seat in the observation lounge, find solitude in the library or pamper yourself in the spa and health club, located in the unique Captain Nemo Lounge. Here you will even find underwater glass portholes which mean that even the secrets of the deep are open to those who sail aboard.
The legendary Preussen, the largest, fastest sailing ship the world had ever seen was launched in 1902. She ruled the seas for just eight years before she was involved in an accident in 1910. Royal Clipper was inspired by the Preussen and has the proud distinction of being the largest and only five-masted full-rigged sailing ship built since her predecessor was launched on her maiden voyage from Bremerhaven. With her complement of 42 sails, with a combined area of 56,000 square feet, Royal Clipper stands out amongst her peers in more ways than one.
Heavier, longer and with the ability to carry more passengers than both Star Clipper and Star Flyer this extraordinary vessel cuts through the the waves in majestic fashion and leaves all that sail in her awestruck.
For all the characteristics that she possesses from the grand age of sail, Royal Clipper is as new and thoroughly modern, boasting a state-of-the-art navigation systems to prove it. She also combines beauty with comfort by offering onboard luxury. For passionate travellers and sail cruising connoisseurs, the 439 foot Royal Clipper offers a sea-going experience like no other; finding an undeniable balance between the grandeur, adventure and tradition of classic sailing and the superb facilities, cabins and conveniences associated with the finest modern yacht.
