Whilst popular tourist destinations bring endless sights to see and things to do, visitors flock in their millions and the crowds, particularly in high season, can be overwhelming. With this comes queues, limitations on activities and the pressure to book everything well in advance.

Choosing a Star Clippers sailing is the most sensible way to ensure that peace, quiet and tranquillity are on the agenda. Our unique tall ships – Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer-  can visit ports of call untouched by larger cruise lines, offering serene authenticity alongside exclusive and more immersive cultural experiences.

Our team have selected our favourite smaller ports of call visited by our beautiful sailing ships, from Greece to Grenada, and Corsica to Costa Rica:

1 Spetses, Greece

Spetses, an island boasting a long naval tradition, is famous for its significant contribution to the 1821 War of Independence. Take a romantic trip around the island in horse-drawn carriages and admire the grand mansions adorning the narrow, cobbled streets of the island. Due to Spetses’ rich history there are many attractions worthy of a visit including museums, churches and cathedrals. There are also many beautiful beaches within easy reach where you can soak up the sun or take part in the water sports on offer.

2 Lipari, Italy

Lipari represents the essence of Italy that we don’t often get to experience; the scents of rosemary, the bright colours of bougainvillea and the traditional dessert of granita. Explore quiet, cobbled streets from the small marina dotted with fishing boats and discover small boutiques where locals create artistic masterpieces. The Aeolian archipelago is made up of 7 islands of volcanic origin, of which only Stromboli and Vulcano are still active volcanoes.

3 Cres, Croatia

Cres, situated in the Adriatic Sea, is Croatia's largest island. With its unspoilt landscapes, picturesque villages and secluded coves, Cres offers striking contrasts for a tranquil getaway in unspoilt natural surroundings.

4 St Florent, Corsica

Crowded with yachts flying burgees hailing from the world's most prestigious yacht clubs, the harbour of St. Florent is a regatta of colours. Take an excursion to the peninsula of Cap Corse, where medieval watchtowers dot the cliff tops every few miles.

5 Tenedos (Bozcaada), Turkey

Bozcaada has resisted the temptation to become overwhelmed with the usual tourist trappings. If you venture aware from its glorious uncrowded sandy beaches, you will find yourself wandering around the ancient cobbled streets, lined with quaint rustic homes adorned with gorgeous flora and fauna. Stop off for refreshments in one of the many traditional tavernas under the grapevines or visit one of the six wineries on the island. After the tour you can shop next door and enjoy tasting wine samples.

6 Gustavia, St Barts

In its elegant little capital of Gustavia, French joie de vivre is tempered by Swedish spic and span neatness. Diversions include duty-free shopping in exquisite boutiques, beautiful beaches, excellent dining and people-watching.

7 Falmouth Harbour, Antigua

The dockyards, marinas, old inns, venerable pubs and convivial crowds of sun-tanned yacht crews- this is the epicentre of the Caribbean yachting world. Today, every faded pink brick and weather-worn bollard of Nelson's Dockyard evokes the presence of the greatest naval commander in history

8. River Bay, Barbuda

River Bay, a hidden gem on the pristine island of Barbuda, is a natural paradise that encapsulates the Caribbean's unspoiled beauty. This secluded bay is a tranquil haven with its soft, pink-tinged sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters, making it an idyllic spot for swimming and snorkelling. It remains largely untouched by mass tourism, allowing visitors to savour a sense of seclusion and serenity that's increasingly rare in the region. The surrounding lush vegetation and the tranquil sound of gentle waves create a sense of harmony and relaxation. River Bay epitomizes the untouched natural splendour that makes Barbuda a true sanctuary for nature lovers and those seeking a serene escape in the Caribbean.

9 Islas Tortugas, Costa Rica

Isla Tortuga is widely regarded as the most beautiful island in Costa Rica. With giant coconut palms framing powder soft white sand beaches that are lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters, this really is a tropical paradise. You can also play beach volleyball, rent a kayak, swim, or even get a ride of a glass-bottom boat. If you are feeling adventurous, you can ride the zip line as part of a canopy tour.

10 Carriacou, Grenada

A breathtaking stretch of pristine shoreline, renowned for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Passengers can unwind under the shade of swaying palm trees, take leisurely strolls along the shore, or indulge in water activities like snorkelling and swimming in the warm Caribbean Sea.

11 Englishman’s Bay, Tobago

Englishman's Bay in Tobago is a stunning, crescent-shaped beach nestled along the island's rugged northern coastline. Renowned for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil ambiance, the bay boasts powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by lush greenery.