Sailing Through Greece and Turkey with Star Clipper

As someone who works in travel, I spend a lot of time looking at cruise ships. The newest, the biggest, the most entertainment-packed. But recently I had the chance to sail on something completely different: a traditional tall ship called Star Clipper, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding travel experiences I’ve had in a long time.

Sailing round-trip from Athens, we visited Dikili in Turkey and the Greek islands of Lemnos, Skopelos, Skiathos, and Poros. Over the course of a week, I found a new appreciation for small ship sailing. It was personal, peaceful, and completely refreshing.

A Ship With Charm, History, and Heart

Star Clipper is a true sailing vessel with four masts and working sails that are raised regularly, depending on the wind. From the moment you step on board, there’s an elegance and a sense of tradition. The ship has a classic, old-world feel, but it’s incredibly well maintained. Every part of it feels clean, polished, and loved.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. You get to know the crew quickly, and they get to know you too. There’s something very genuine about the service onboard. People aren’t just doing a job, they love sailing, and it shows in the way they talk about the ship and treat the guests.

A Hands-On Sailing Experience

One of the best parts of the trip was being able to choose how involved you wanted to be. You could completely relax on deck with a book and a drink, or you could help raise the sails, climb the mast, take a tour of the ship, or chat with the captain on the bridge. There’s something really special about learning how the ship works and watching it respond to the wind.

Everything about the experience made you feel like a guest, not a number. The slower pace of sailing encouraged you to slow down too. I found myself noticing more, appreciating more, and connecting more with the journey

The Itinerary: Uncrowded, Unspoiled, Unforgettable

Every port we visited had its own charm, and what made it even more special was that we were the only cruise ship in every single port. Not once did we share the dock with another vessel. These are small, off-the-beaten-path places that larger ships simply can’t get into.

• In Dikili, Turkey, we wandered through the markets, tried fresh pastries still warm from the oven and swam in the turquoise waters.

• Lemnos looked small at first but revealed itself as full of character, with winding streets, hidden shops, and a laid-back energy.

• In Skiathos, we explored blue and white laneways, hired a jeep to reach a beach club, and had lunch on a hilltop with views over the whole island.

• Skopelos, with its pine-covered hills and quiet beaches, was a standout. We climbed the 200-plus steps to the iconic Mamma Mia! chapel and swam at Kastani Beach in water so clear it didn’t seem real.

• Poros, we shopped, relaxed at a beach club, tried some watersports, and soaked up the island’s laid-back vibe.

The Luxury of Time

One thing I truly appreciated was how much time we had in port. We were never rushed. There was time to explore, time to enjoy long lunches, time to swim and shop and just take it all in.

Between those long days in each destination, the meals on board, and the relaxed entertainment in the evenings, I never once felt like I needed more to do. I didn’t miss casinos or wave riders or water slides. In fact, if those had been options, I would have had to choose between them and experiencing the destination properly.

With fewer distractions, I found myself fully focused on the culture, the food, the architecture, and the people. I left every port feeling like I had truly experienced it, not just passed through.

A Standout Moment

One of the most memorable moments of the trip was when Star Clipper raised all 16 of her sails. The crew invited us to head out on the tenders for a full 360-degree view from the water.

From out there, it was breathtaking. The sails stretched high above, catching the light just right, with the ship framed by the open sea. The crew lined the bow and waved down to us as we circled. Seeing her from that perspective, sails full and proud, was something really special. It was one of those rare, still moments that makes you stop, take a breath, and just soak it all in.

Final Thoughts

Sailing on Star Clipper gave me a sense of calm that I didn’t know I needed. It was a slower kind of travel, but in the best way. I connected with the destinations, the people, and the rhythm of the sea. I came home not only relaxed, but inspired.

If you’re looking for a cruise experience that’s personal, immersive, and unlike anything else, I can’t recommend Star Clippers enough. It’s travel with heart, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.