The Royal Clipper - speed demon of the seas
It is a rare treat to see the sleek and elegant silhouette of the Royal Clipper sail into view on the horizon, with its five masts scraping the sky and its 5000 square metres of white sail taut in the wind. You cannot be but brimful with emotion as you step on board this brand new ship, with thoughts of great adventurers and explorers of the seas in mind. A journey on the celebrated Royal Clipper is a once in a lifetime experience for those with a love for tall ships, to fulfill childhood dreams of escape.
Michael Kraft, a man with a dream
Not surprisingly, the man behind this ship has always loved the sea and this sort of clipper. Michael Kraft has a special affinity for the clippers of the 19th Century. A lawyer, a businessman and an accomplished sailor, he chose to inspire himself with these "speed demons of the seas" used in the profitable tea trade, to make his dream of building a modern-day clipper a reality. These ships had rewritten the rules of navigation and had broken all speed records during the golden age of the tall ships. The Preussen, the most notable of these ships was the inspiration behind the design of the Royal Clipper, which measures 134 metres in length and offers an incomparable marriage of luxury service and amenities in the greatest nautical tradition.
An elegant and convivial sailing ship
This majestic ship proves to be as stunningly elegant on the inside as it is on the outside. The marine themed style is sober without being self-consciously sophisticated. The welcome on board takes place in the Tropical Bar. With its walnut bar and teak seating, it remains the hub of activity throughout the cruise, whether for an aperitif or as a place to dream while looking out from the parapet. The English style library is close by, with a beautiful fireplace, comfortable Chesterfields and windows with tiny panes of glass which add to the spirit of yesteryear with which one is imbibed. Opposite you will find the Piano Bar. Welcoming settees under the windows encircle a beautiful grand piano and atrium. During bad weather the observatory at the far end of the main deck is an ideal place to take refuge...
Convivial mealtimes
An elegant wrought iron staircase linking the three main decks leads to the restaurant, which is decorated with frescoes, white columns and comfortable red velvet armchairs. There is no protocol in this dining room. With tables for two, or four or more, everyone settles in wherever he wants, according to his mood, which makes for a pleasant change. Conversations strike up easily from the breakfast hour and throughout the day, with a delicious buffet available in the morning and at lunchtime, allowing you to pick and chose at will. If the weather is clement, lunch will also be laid out on the main deck, near to the Tropical Bar, where you can appreciate the gentle sea breezes.
Departure time, an emotional moment
It is always an emotional moment for both novices and veterans of the sea when a ship departs dock. Once at sea aboard the Royal Clipper, anyone can become familiar with and participate in operations if he wants. There is a daily briefing full of information and fun anecdotes, especially if Frederic, the captain is present. Each day is organised in accordance with the desires of the guests and the planned ports of call. Should you be unfortunate with the weather, a visit to the Captain Nemo Lounge Spa is particularly welcome. Most of the therapists are Asian, and the massages are expertly performed in a confined space. Underwater portholes add to the uniqueness of the experience. There are certain spas which would be well advised to take note!
The Amalfi Coast - a treat for sore eyes
One great advantage of being on the Royal Clipper is that there is never a dull moment. The ship calls into port frequently, allowing for diversion on shore. The Amalfi coast is entrancing. With its ancient villages perched vertiginously on cliffs, with precipitous gardens, the charms of its glorious ports and picturesque scenery are easily seen from the ship. Add to this the delights of sun-dried tomatoes, proscuitto, anti pasti and cheese and you can imagine the temptation of a quick jaunt on shore.... With Ponza, Amalfi, Capri and Pompei at hand, why not further your knowledge of these cultural treats, while enjoying the animation of these Italian villages. Not to be missed either are the numerous little restaurants offering the delicious typical fare of the region.
At the end of the day, this is not a Vegas style cruise. There are no casinos or sparkly revues offered on board, just light activities in a romantic context served with fineness and humour by the captain and his team. The sea is the ultimate scene-setter and this is what the clients on board the Royal Clipper appreciate!
Not surprisingly, the man behind this ship has always loved the sea and this sort of clipper. Michael Kraft has a special affinity for the clippers of the 19th Century. A lawyer, a businessman and an accomplished sailor, he chose to inspire himself with these "speed demons of the seas" used in the profitable tea trade, to make his dream of building a modern-day clipper a reality. These ships had rewritten the rules of navigation and had broken all speed records during the golden age of the tall ships. The Preussen, the most notable of these ships was the inspiration behind the design of the Royal Clipper, which measures 134 metres in length and offers an incomparable marriage of luxury service and amenities in the greatest nautical tradition.
An elegant and convivial sailing ship
This majestic ship proves to be as stunningly elegant on the inside as it is on the outside. The marine themed style is sober without being self-consciously sophisticated. The welcome on board takes place in the Tropical Bar. With its walnut bar and teak seating, it remains the hub of activity throughout the cruise, whether for an aperitif or as a place to dream while looking out from the parapet. The English style library is close by, with a beautiful fireplace, comfortable Chesterfields and windows with tiny panes of glass which add to the spirit of yesteryear with which one is imbibed. Opposite you will find the Piano Bar. Welcoming settees under the windows encircle a beautiful grand piano and atrium. During bad weather the observatory at the far end of the main deck is an ideal place to take refuge...
Convivial mealtimes
An elegant wrought iron staircase linking the three main decks leads to the restaurant, which is decorated with frescoes, white columns and comfortable red velvet armchairs. There is no protocol in this dining room. With tables for two, or four or more, everyone settles in wherever he wants, according to his mood, which makes for a pleasant change. Conversations strike up easily from the breakfast hour and throughout the day, with a delicious buffet available in the morning and at lunchtime, allowing you to pick and chose at will. If the weather is clement, lunch will also be laid out on the main deck, near to the Tropical Bar, where you can appreciate the gentle sea breezes.
Departure time, an emotional moment
It is always an emotional moment for both novices and veterans of the sea when a ship departs dock. Once at sea aboard the Royal Clipper, anyone can become familiar with and participate in operations if he wants. There is a daily briefing full of information and fun anecdotes, especially if Frederic, the captain is present. Each day is organised in accordance with the desires of the guests and the planned ports of call. Should you be unfortunate with the weather, a visit to the Captain Nemo Lounge Spa is particularly welcome. Most of the therapists are Asian, and the massages are expertly performed in a confined space. Underwater portholes add to the uniqueness of the experience. There are certain spas which would be well advised to take note!
The Amalfi Coast - a treat for sore eyes
One great advantage of being on the Royal Clipper is that there is never a dull moment. The ship calls into port frequently, allowing for diversion on shore. The Amalfi coast is entrancing. With its ancient villages perched vertiginously on cliffs, with precipitous gardens, the charms of its glorious ports and picturesque scenery are easily seen from the ship. Add to this the delights of sun-dried tomatoes, proscuitto, anti pasti and cheese and you can imagine the temptation of a quick jaunt on shore.... With Ponza, Amalfi, Capri and Pompei at hand, why not further your knowledge of these cultural treats, while enjoying the animation of these Italian villages. Not to be missed either are the numerous little restaurants offering the delicious typical fare of the region.
At the end of the day, this is not a Vegas style cruise. There are no casinos or sparkly revues offered on board, just light activities in a romantic context served with fineness and humour by the captain and his team. The sea is the ultimate scene-setter and this is what the clients on board the Royal Clipper appreciate!
Mars 2007
By Katya PELLEGRINO
