Every cruise has its unique personality. And sailing on a Star Clippers tall ship feels like a journey back to the golden age of seafaring.
Our glorious vessel, Star Flyer awaits us in Civitavecchia (the gateway to Rome), with its majestic masts making it instantly recognisable.
Boarding and check-in are incredibly quick and easy and we’re soon shown to our comfortable cabins. And then it’s time to explore. The ship is compact and stylish. It’s 115 metres long and carries a maximum of 166 guests. Everything is spread over our elegant decks. Think polished brass, gleaming mahogany woodwork and plush carpets underfoot.
There’s an open-seating dining room, two bars (one indoor and one outdoor) and a fully-stocked Edwardian-style library. And at the very top, on the sun deck we discover Star Flyer’s crowning glory. The sleek teak deck is home to sun loungers and a sparkling pool and it’s where we’ll come to spend hours enraptured by the white sails billowing in the wind.
But before then it’s time to get acquainted with our new home. Because that’s what it very soon feels like – home. We’re greeted by Captain Dominique and Cruise Director Carlos who we chat regularly to for updates on sailing schedules and destinations. Because of the ship’s compact design (and probably the friendly attitude, too) we’re very soon making friends with our fellow travellers. It’s all very cosy and comfortable.
Our 714-nautical mile round-trip journey to Rome and back, takes us through the Aeolian Islands to Sicilly and along the Amalfi Coast. It’s a dramatic discovery of Italian beauty and culture with some unexpected treats along the way.
Like our first sail away. Always one of my favourite parts of cruising, sail aways on Star Flyer are breathtakingly beautiful. We head for the top deck, Champagne in hand and as we leave the port our majestic sails are unfurled to the sounds of Vangelis’ Conquest of Paradise. It’s an unexpectedly exhilarating and emotional experience and soon becomes one of our favourite parts of the voyage.
As are the destinations. Because of Star Flyer’s relatively diminutive stature, we can dock in smaller ports as well as some of the more popular destinations. Like our first stop, Lipari, one of the seven islands in the Aeolian archipelago. It’s famous for its dramatic volcanic terrain, as we discover as we ascend to the heights, unprepared for the stunning sapphire views of the sister islands strewn like gems across the glittering ocean landscape.
Back at the harbour we fall in love with the enchanting little town. The narrow streets are lined with tempting shopping opportunities and charming whitewashed cottages and we wander in a dream-like state, inevitably stopping for Prosecco and seafood along the way. What a fabulous first stop. Part of my heart is still somewhere in Lipari, I may have to return to retrieve it.
The cruising continues in the same vein with visits to Taormina, Amalfi, Ravello, Sorrento and Ponza. Every day brings more Italian joy, with fabulous and extremely well-priced excursions. But we’re always happy to get back to our elegant floating home where the warmest of welcomes and the cocktail of the day awaits.
Evenings onboard start with alfresco aperitivos followed by sumptuous dinners. Menus change every day and there’s plenty of choice. We also love the themed lunchtime buffets with their fabulous array of perfectly prepared dishes. After dinner the talented staff organise a variety of entertainment from fashion shows to music quizzes to talent nights. There’s never a dull moment.
Three one-of-a-kind experiences stand out in their glory. As we power through the Med, we’re treated to a light show on the top deck. All the colours of the rainbow are reflected off the huge, billowing sails (and more Vangelis) It’s quite a sight to behold.
And one dark evening as we pass Stromboli with its active volcano, we’re treated to explosive sparks in sunset shades and puffs of smoke, like our own personal firework show from nature.
And one day we all board the tenders and circle our beautiful Star Flyer as the sails are unfurled. The crew clamber nimbly out onto the masts to wave and smile and our hearts fill with happiness. Something truly special that I’ve never experienced before.
There’s no doubt that this is an enchanting part of the world. And sailing its seas on board Star Flyer make it an even more magical and unforgettable experience.
Amalfi & Sicily Sail
Departs 16th May 2026, 23rd May 2026 & September 12th 2026
7-nights aboard Star Clipper visiting: Civitavecchia, Port of Rome (Italy) |At Sea |
Lipari, Aeolian Islands (Italy) | Stromboli sailing in area (Italy) | Messina, Sicily
(Italy) | Amalfi (Italy) | Sorrento (Italy) | Ponza, Pontine Islands (Italy) |
Civitavecchia, Port of Rome (Italy)
From £1893pp
Price based on 2 adults sharing category 6 cabin and includes a 10% Early Booking
Discount, valid until January 31st 2026. Cruise-only basis.
01473 242666