Setting sail from the port of Civitavecchia, just outside of Rome, my week aboard the Star Flyer, one of Star Clippers Cruises’ iconic tall ships, was a journey filled with stunning coastal views, rich history, and personal discovery. The trip took us to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful spots, including Lipari, Messina, Amalfi, Sorrento, Ponza, and back to Civitavecchia. It was an adventure that seamlessly blended relaxation and exploration, offering an intimate cruise experience aboard a ship with only around 170 passengers.
About Our Ship the Star Flyer
The Star Flyer is a modern, four-masted barquentine, embodying the charm and romance of classic sailing ships while providing the comfort and amenities expected on a luxury cruise. Launched in 1991, the Star Flyer is designed for passengers who prefer a more intimate and authentic sailing experience. Unlike traditional cruise ships, the Star Flyer offers an adventure that feels like a blend of yachting and cruising.
Capacity and Size
- Length: 360 feet (approximately 110 meters)
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 170 passengers
- Crew: 72 crew members
The smaller size of the ship allows for a more personal experience, with the crew-to-passenger ratio ensuring attentive service.
Accommodations
The Star Flyer has a range of cabin types, including:
- Outside Cabins: All rooms have an ocean view, with some offering portholes or windows.
- Deluxe Suites: These larger suites offer extra space and amenities, with marble-lined bathrooms and additional comforts. While the cabins are compact, they are elegantly designed with polished wood and nautical decor, emphasizing the ship’s sailing heritage.
Dining
Dining on board the Star Flyer is an experience in itself, with a relaxed and social atmosphere. The ship features a single main dining room where all meals are served:
- Open Seating: Guests can dine whenever they like during designated hours, choosing to sit with fellow travelers or alone.
- Cuisine: The food reflects international influences, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, often reflecting the regions the ship visits.
Onboard Facilities
Despite its smaller size, the Star Flyer offers several amenities to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable:
- Two Small Pools: Ideal for relaxing on deck while watching the sails overhead.
- Tropical Bar: A central gathering spot where passengers socialize, enjoy drinks, and take part in evening entertainment.
- Library: A quiet space filled with books and cozy spots to read.
- Sun Deck: Perfect for lounging, with ample seating to enjoy the ocean views.
Activities and Entertainment
While the Star Flyer doesn’t offer large-scale entertainment like bigger cruise ships, it has a range of low-key activities designed to enhance the sailing experience:
- Water Sports: The ship provides snorkeling, kayaking, and other water sports equipment that passengers can use during stops.
- Evening Entertainment: Each night, the crew organizes entertainment such as live music, dancing, and themed parties. Talent shows and trivia nights are also popular.
- Sailing Experience: One of the highlights of a trip aboard the Star Flyer is watching and learning about the ship’s sailing operations. Guests can even help raise the sails and tour the bridge.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere on the Star Flyer is relaxed and casual. There is no formal dress code, and the focus is on creating a friendly, laid-back environment where passengers can interact with one another and enjoy the beauty of the sea. The relatively small number of passengers fosters a sense of community, and by the end of the cruise, many guests have formed strong connections with fellow travelers.
Looking for a smaller sailing option?
Life Aboard the Star Flyer
From the moment we stepped aboard the Star Flyer, the experience was one of timeless elegance. The ship’s masts soared into the sky, and the classic wood-paneled deck created an atmosphere reminiscent of the grand age of sailing. While the Star Flyer is a traditional tall ship, it doesn’t lack modern comforts. The ship has several small pools perfect for lounging, a Tropical Bar for socializing, and a cozy dining room where we enjoyed some truly delicious meals.
The first 24 hours were spent at sea, giving us plenty of time to explore the ship. Mornings began with a generous breakfast buffet in the dining room, followed by leisurely afternoons spent lounging by the pool or reading in the sun. As we sailed through the Mediterranean, the crew made sure we were entertained, hosting fun games, trivia, and music in the evening. There was even a mandatory safety drill, but the crew kept everything lighthearted and informative, ensuring we were all prepared while still maintaining the vacation vibe.
Lipari: Exploring a Charming Island
Our first stop was the volcanic island of Lipari, one of the Aeolian Islands. Arriving early in the morning, we were tendered to shore, where the town immediately charmed us with its narrow streets and historical sites. Lipari is not as crowded as some other Mediterranean destinations, making it the perfect place to wander without the rush.
We started our exploration by visiting a small church near the port, where we were delighted to find a mini nativity scene—not your ordinary one, but an intricate replica of the town filled with tiny, detailed figures. From there, we walked uphill to visit the Lipari Castle and the Church of San Bartolomeo, which offered spectacular views of the town and sea below. The short walk was well worth the effort, as the panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean were nothing short of breathtaking.
After working up an appetite, we found a small pizzeria, where we indulged in some classic Italian pizza paired with local drinks. The simplicity and freshness of the food were memorable, and we couldn’t resist popping into a few local shops afterward to browse. It was a leisurely day of discovery before returning to the ship to relax and recount our day’s adventures over dinner.
Messina: Sicilian Delights
Our next port of call was Messina, the gateway to Sicily. Rather than opt for a guided tour, we decided to explore the city on our own. Messina is known for its dramatic history, having been nearly destroyed by an earthquake in 1908, but today it stands as a vibrant and lively city with much to offer.
We began by heading up to the Tempio di Cristo Re, a hilltop church offering sweeping views of the city and the strait separating Sicily from mainland Italy. The walk was a bit steep, but the views were absolutely worth it. From there, we headed back down into town just in time to see the famous Astronomical Clock at Messina Cathedral strike noon. The intricate display of moving figures and chimes was fascinating, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
For lunch, we couldn’t resist stopping by Rosticceria Famulari, a local gem known for its arancini. These Sicilian rice balls filled with ragu and mozzarella were the perfect midday treat—crispy on the outside, warm and savory on the inside. After a satisfying meal, we returned to the ship, eager to continue our journey along the Italian coast.
Amalfi and Positano: The Glamour of the Amalfi Coast
One of the highlights of the cruise was our day in Amalfi. Known for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque villages, the Amalfi Coast is truly a sight to behold. We had booked an excursion to Positano, which began with a scenic 45-minute boat ride along the coast. The cliffs rising out of the blue waters, dotted with lemon trees and pastel-colored villas, were nothing short of magical.
Positano lived up to its reputation as a glamorous retreat. We wandered through its winding streets, browsing the local boutiques famous for selling handmade cotton clothing, and soaked in the atmosphere of this enchanting village. After exploring at our leisure, we returned to Amalfi, where we took more time to explore the town. The streets of Amalfi were just as charming, with their whitewashed buildings, cozy cafes, and bustling squares. Dinner that night was in a small restaurant tucked into one of the town’s narrow alleys, where we enjoyed freshly caught seafood.
Sorrento and Capri: A Day in Paradise
Our next port was Sorrento, where we took another excursion to the island of Capri. Known as the jewel of the Bay of Naples, Capri is a place of natural beauty, rich history, and glamorous reputation. After taking a funicular ride from Marina Grande up to the village of Capri, we spent the day hiking to scenic viewpoints and exploring the town’s chic shops and cafes. Capri’s landscapes were stunning, with rugged cliffs plunging into the sea and vibrant flowers blooming along the paths.
One of the highlights was lunch at Francuccio, a delightful restaurant where we enjoyed fresh seafood while admiring the views of the Mediterranean. After a full day of exploration, we returned to Sorrento and explored and shopped some more. Then back to the ship, where we spent the evening dancing and mingling with fellow passengers.
Ponza: Discovering Hidden Gems by Sea
Our final stop was the island of Ponza, a less-visited but equally beautiful island with stunning natural landscapes. We opted for a boat excursion around the island, which gave us a chance to see Ponza’s unique cliffs, sea grottos, and hidden coves. The water was crystal-clear, and we made several stops to swim and explore the grottos.
The highlight of the day was passing by Pilate’s Caves, ancient Roman pools carved into the rock, and swimming near Chiaia di Luna, a breathtaking bay surrounded by towering white cliffs. The boat’s light lunch of pasta and wine was a perfect touch, and afterward, we strolled through the island’s streets, stopping for gelato and snapping photos of the charming harbor.
Returning to Civitavecchia
As we sailed back to Civitavecchia, we reflected on the incredible week we had spent aboard the Star Flyer. Each evening on the ship was filled with entertainment, from trivia and dancing to crew talent shows, making every night fun and engaging. The food onboard was consistently excellent, with a variety of options that catered to all tastes.
By the time we arrived back in Civitavecchia, we were reluctant to leave. The Star Clippers experience had been truly unique—intimate, personal, and full of unforgettable memories. From the scenic beauty of the Amalfi Coast to the cultural riches of Sicily, this cruise was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Why Choose the Star Flyer?
For those who want a sailing adventure with modern comforts, the Star Clippers is an excellent option. It offers a unique blend of tradition and luxury, allowing you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations while enjoying the classic romance of a tall ship.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying the nightly entertainment, or helping to raise the sails, life aboard the Star Flyer is about savoring the journey as much as the destination.
World Traveling Blogger, Social Media Expert and Nerd who has a passion for Adventure and Fitness.