Boarding the majestic Star Clipper in Piraeus on Saturday, 16 August marked the beginning of my unforgettable 7-night Star Clipper Aegean cruise, a sailing adventure through some of the most stunning ports in Greece and Türkiye. Huge thanks to #StarClippers and #CruiseVacationsSA for making it all happen!
Under Starlit Sails
We set sail at 21:30 under a starlit sky, the sails rising in the breeze as we left port. Sunday offered a full day at sea. The perfect opportunity to settle in, enjoy the ship’s elegant charm, and get to know fellow passengers.
Kusadasi & the Wonders of Ephesus
Our first port of call was Kusadasi, Türkiye, alive with energy and warm hospitality. A local guide led us to the incredible ruins of Ephesus, just 20 km away, a powerful glimpse into the ancient world with its grand theatre (once seating 24,000), temples, Roman villas, and public baths. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood proudly here.
Post-excursion, we enjoyed some shopping at the local bazaar before returning to the ship for drinks and snacks at the Tropical Bar, a perfect spot to unwind and mingle.
Life On Board
Life on the Star Clipper is both relaxed and refined. Meals are served in the stylish Clipper Dining Room, where guests enjoy gourmet international cuisine, accompanied by live piano music by Sam in the Piano Bar. Themed evenings, including an Italian night, White Night, Pirate Dinner, and the glamorous Captain’s Dinner, add to the fun. The dress code is elegant-casual, with opportunities to dress up for special occasions.
The Greek Islands Unveiled
Patmos: Steeped in spiritual and historical significance, Patmos is best known as the island where the Apostle John wrote the Book of Revelations (Apocalypse). Its capital, Chora, is a charming maze of winding, cobbled streets, lined with beautifully preserved homes dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. A true gem here is the House of Simantiris, a traditional residence dating back to 1625, which has remained in the same family for over eight generations. Open to visitors, it offers a rare and intimate look into island life across the centuries, featuring antique furniture, embroidered linens, and ancestral paintings, a living museum of Patmian heritage.
Amorgos: Known for its crystal-clear beaches, whitewashed houses, and traditional windmills, Amorgos is also famous for being the filming location for Luc Besson’s The Big Blue. With tender boats running ashore every 30 minutes, it’s easy to explore this peaceful, photogenic island.
Mykonos: Our second-last port was buzzing with high-season energy. Mykonos, famous for its vibrant nightlife, luxury shopping, and celebrity beach clubs, was in full swing with major events and top DJs. After exploring its iconic white alleys, having a swim at the well-known Paradise Beach some of us returned early evening to the calm of the ship, taking the opportunity to sip a tropical cocktail while lounging at the starboard pool and soaking in the Aegean sunset.
Spetses: The final stop was the sophisticated and car-free island of Spetses. With horse-drawn carriages, elegant neoclassical architecture, and a stylish local crowd, it’s a favourite getaway for Athenians. A refreshing swim off Agios Mamas Beach, a bit of last-minute shopping, and a gelato cone in hand made for the perfect final day ashore.
A Fond Farewell
On our last night, we gathered in the dining room for a delicious final dinner, followed by a Light Show on the Sundeck and dancing under the stars at the Tropical Bar, with DJ Sam spinning classic hits that brought everyone to the dance floor. As dawn broke, we returned to Piraeus with full hearts and unforgettable memories.
A heartfelt thank you to Star Clippers, and to Gaynor Galbraith-Neill, CEO of Cruise Vacations SA, along with her exceptional team, Ilse Stols and Nicky Heyne, for curating such a remarkable experience.
Lindsay Quail – Compucruises & Computravel.
Fabulous way of exploring Ancient Greece at some of the best island stops in the Aegean .