Cruise Jan4 2014 anyone else

[Laid back Josie]

This will be our first cruise on the Starclippers. We've only cruised on the Princess line. We are looking forward to the cruise but don't know what to expect. we're doing the Eastern Caribbean starting from Barbados:)

[JOBAKE]

Looks as if you are on the Royal Clipper. We are on the RC the week following you. We have been on the RC on the itinerary you are doing. Are you having some time in Barbados pre cruise? I will let you have one or two thoughts about your RC holiday / Ports of Call in the next couple of days.

 

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WeBeGone - saw your post on the other thread a couple of days ago - are you likely to be with us again this time by any chance? Time for the "A" Team (some of us!) to meet again????

[Laid back Josie]

We are not staying Barbados but flying in directly from Miami the morning of the cruise. We spend a night in Miami.

[JOBAKE]

Boarding the ship normally starts at 4.00 p.m. We usually aim to arrive at the Port at about 3.30 p.m. and meet some of the other "early arrivers". Your timing may be dependent on your flight arrival time and the transfer time to the Port. On boarding you will be given a complimentary drink - gives the crew time to get your bags to your cabin. Suggest that around that time, before the sun goes down, you find your way to the bridge area (see below) - that is the deck above the Tropical Bar / Lounge area. Have a look around up there. Lifeboat drill may be at 6.00 p.m. Dinner is usually at 7.30 p.m. - suggest you go in about then so that you can be out by, say, 9.45 p.m. and then make your way up to area of the open part of the Bridge for Sailaway at 10.00 p.m. The sails are being raised as the ship leaves the Port. Listen as well as watch! Magic.

 

At Antigua (Tuesday) the ship will be anchored off in the English Harbour area and you can take the tender ashore. The historic Nelson's Dockyard (small entry fee) is only a few minutes walk away from where you are normally tendered ashore. Recommend a visit to that - also recommend a visit to the Museum within the Nelson's Dockyard.

 

At the Isle des Saintes (Thursday) - in effect part of France - suggest a walk to the other side of the island from where you are tendered ashore. At the point where you are tendered ashore turn right and a short distance along there is a road off to the left (check with the locals that you have the correct road) - take that road to the left and it is about half an hours walk to the other side of the island. Nice beach there (it is where the locals go) with lots of palm tree cover. Also snorkelling there if you wish. We tend to do that in the morning and then walk back to the main area for a light lunch in one of the cafes there. Take your camera - some great views of the Royal Clipper at anchor from the road you walk.

 

In Martinique, Friday, (also part of France) the RC usually goes alongside. You can walk in to town along the coloured path. Probably your best shopping opportunity if you are in to that sort of thing. (Although some very colourful clothing in the local shops along the front in the Isle des Saintes).

 

When you get your holiday documents you should get a brochure outlining the ship's organised excursions - they can be booked on board (no hassle) in the area in front of the Purser's desk.

 

One of the most often said things about a holiday on the Clippers is that "you meet some very interesting people" We have and have new friends as a result.

 

The ship's daily programme will be delivered to your cabin in the late afternoon / early evening of the previous day.

 

Organised on board:- you can climb the mast (safety harness provided), go out on a tender for a photoshoot of the RC under sail, lay down in the net under the bowsprit, visit the (enclosed) part of the Bridge (ask to enter), chat with the Captain, Officers and Crew. It is all pretty laid back and relaxed. There is always the possibility of meeting the owner (Mikael Krafft) and / or his wife on board. We have met them both three times. Have a look at the figurehead under the bowsprit - the owner's daughter (actually a slim lady) was the model for that.

 

If you have any questions I am willing to try to help. Good luck - relax and have a great holiday.

[Laid back Josie]

Wow thank you for all the great info. Enjoy your cruise too!

[JOBAKE]

Slight correction to my earlier post! Antigua - the RC anchors off Falmouth Harbour. Nelson's Dockyard is in English Harbour. Still just a short walk - about 10 minutes - from where you are tendered ashore to Nelson's Dockyard.

[Laid back Josie]

Thanks again

[smokinmike]

On occasion the Clippers tie up in Antiqua - not often but it happens if the harbor has a lot of traffic. Happened to us last year.

 

Have a great cruise!

[Laid back Josie]

Thanks for that info too.

[JOBAKE]

And, with a bit of luck, you will see the dolphins swimming along under the bow of the ship. Best time for that is sunrise or just after. Another camera job?

[Laid back Josie]

We saw some dolphin on our Panama Canal trip. It never gets old.Thanks

[Jacpac]

Dear Josie

We are on the same cruise as you. Looking forward to meeting you. Getting quite excited. We've never cruised on the clippers before but have also done princess. This will certainly be different. Main attraction for me is the drop down sea platform.

Nicky and jacqui from scotland

[Laid back Josie]

Dear Jacqui and Nick

We hope got back safely. the room is still rocking My email JosieJ7@gmail.com

Joan

[Jridou]

How was it? We're doing the Royal Clipper in August and I'm eager for a review!

[Naveron]

I heard it was rough and that swells were a bit of a problem when the sails were up?