Sporades Highlights from Athens, 19 July 2025 (7 nights)

Wonderful - all of it, the crew were so friendly and helpful; the atmosphere on board was very relaxed and everyone was easy to talk to - including the captain and officers; the food was delicious; the the excursions and guides were excellent and the information and history available in the form of talks by various members of the crew and tour guides was very informative and interesting and made the cruise so much more appreciated. And the Shil was majestic and immaculate.

The ship is lovely like wise the crew and food. The only concern I have is the boarding ladder up the side of the ship was unstable and daunting for some people. I did expect better. They used local boats to get to some islands (wet landings) I thought this process was down right dangerous. The sea was choppy and the locals do not have any sense of health and safety. Although some people turned back I went on a speed boat to an island but found it very difficult to get on and off. I did expect landings would be carried out by the crew not locals. More care needs to be taken. Larger cruise ships would not let you go ashore under the same conditions. I do realise Clipper ships are different but the fact still remains that the sea is very powerful and unpredictable and more care should betaken especially with guests who are fit but getting on in years. Hope this is useful Enid G 

We had a great time despite sometimes disappointing weather (10 - 17 November out of Phuket) The crewe were amazing in very department. Nothing too much trouble and always smiley and helpful. The food was excellent and very varied. I think the water sports were probably the highlight of the cruise, but even though I did not participate I was well entertained and enjoyed the trip very much. Just two observations. I would have preferred to have two days in Penang as there is so much to see and do there. Also I felt that the organised trip to the charcoals burners was not up to the standard of the rest of the trip. These are very small matters. In all I give this cruise 5/5 Being undersail for much of the voage was a great thrill. The captain was approachable and friendly and very much in charge which gave one confidence. Peter in charge of all the entertainments and shore excursions was always very friendly and a fount of knowledge on everything! He gave talks up on deck each day, sometimes twice and it was clear that he just loved his subject and sharing his knowedge with others. I felt it was a privilige to be aboard such a beautiful ship and will definitely look forward to taking another cruise with Star Clippers

Another excellent cruise with Star Clippers. This time we travelled from Bali around the Indonesian islands. The cruise had to be rerouted after the earthquake in Lombok and took us instead to other less well known islands, including Sumba. Our morning on Komodo island was the highlight of the week and we encountered several of the ferocious dragons closeup! Our cabin on the Star Clipper was well appointed and serviced. We particularly enjoy the open dining policy - no set sittings or tables allocated. We made a lot of new friends this way. Menus are international with plenty of choice. Drinks in the Tropical Bar are generous and reasonably priced. A large G&T is €5.50 and a glass of wine €3.50 - less than we pay at home. Entertainment is pretty home made and informal. If you're looking for West End shows this ship is not for you. We'll certainly be going again with Star Clippers.