One of the benefits of sailing on board a tall-ship is the sheer exclusivity of visiting a port of call largely untouched by any other cruise lines. Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer have the unique ability to nestle in small bays, unique marinas and unspoilt harbours all around the world. Here is our top pick of more intimate spots to visit on a tall-ship sailing.

Historic Venice Centre

With the majority of cruise ships banned from entering Venice’s main channel in 2021, very few get to experience the sheer exhilaration of sailing past Piazza San Marco as the bells toll and the sun sets behind the historic skyline. Whilst Venice itself teems with tourists, the experience of  gliding past gondolas and water taxis in the heart of the channel and past the iconic Grand Canal gives a whole new perspective on this beautiful destination.

Kekova, Turkey

This small, tranquil island is a new destination for our summer 2027 sailing programme and brings archaeological richness to the forefront of an incomparably picturesque destination. A haven of history, Kekova offers charm uniqueness - it is only 4.5km2 in size and uninhabited, making it the smallest port of call Star Clippers ships visit. Whilst small, Kekova is known for its intriguing Sunken City, where a stone staircase descending into the water is one of the only signs from land of a community wiped out by an earthquake 2000 years ago.

Barletta, Italy

As the first ever cruise line to visit Barletta, this unique occasion in summer 2026 demonstrates the remarkable capabilities of a small vessel’s destination opportunities. A serene city in Southeastern Italy, Barletta offers a historic center filled with grand Baroque stately buildings, castles and cathedrals. Soak up the fragrances and flavours of the local cuisine; orecchiette is the staple pasta of Puglia and a must-try.

 Pesaro, Italy

Situated on Italy’s Adriatic coast, this UNESCO City of Music is best known as the birthplace of composer Rossini. In his honour, Pesaro hosts the Rossini Opera Festival every August, celebrating his lesser-known works in performances at the historic Teatro Rossini. Popular with Italian holiday-makers, Pesaro is a lesser-known destination with very few foreign tourists visiting.

 From Pesaro, Star Clippers offers excursions to San Marino, a land-locked, mountainous microstate and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 Falmouth Harbour, Antigua

Whilst most cruise ships visit St John’s, Star Clippers ships nestle in Falmouth Harbour, a horseshoe-shaped bay catering to mostly to superyachts and fishing vessels. With Nelson’s Dockyard within walking distance, as well as an array of shops, bars, restaurants and beaches, this location guarantees convenience without the crowds.

Rodney Bay, St Lucia 

Another small-ship-secret, Rodney Bay is an exclusive marina primarily used for smaller, luxury yachts and inaccessible to larger cruise lines. A pristine white-sand beach sweeps the length of the coast, surrounded by tropical rainforest and mountains soaring out of the sea. Known as one of the most prestigious yachting marinas in the Caribbean, Rodney Bay guarantees sublime views and a calm atmosphere without compromising on attractions and amenities.

Amorgos, Greece

Inaccessible by land, Amorgos is a perfect destination for the authentic Greek Island experience. In contrast to some of other islands, this lesser-known destination offers a truly authentic and traditional Greek experience. Star Clippers vessels are permitted to anchor within the marina, where a journey ashore offers crystal-clear waters bordered by white-washed buildings, boutique shops and local cuisine. 

To find out more about our sailing destinations, call our Reservations team on 01473 242666 or submit a Quote Request.