Star Clippers Adds New Unique Ports in Greece, Italy, and Croatia for Mediterranean Sailings Summer 2026

Saturday, November 30, 2024

Star Clippers, a specialist cruise line known for its unique tall-ship experiences, has announced an exciting expansion to its Mediterranean itinerary for summer 2026. Seven new ports of call, including destinations in Greece, Italy, and Croatia, promise travelers a fresh perspective on this iconic region. These additions are tailored for those seeking intimate, off-the-beaten-path travel experiences that larger cruise lines often miss.

Seven New Ports for Unique Exploration

The new ports of call include Ouranoupolis in Greece, Barletta, Monopoli, Crotone, and Pesaro in Italy, as well as Šibenik in Croatia and Gythio in Greece. Each destination offers distinct cultural and historical experiences, reflecting Star Clippers’ focus on exploring smaller, lesser-visited locations.

Highlighted New Ports

• Ouranoupolis, Greece: Nestled in the Halkidiki region, this small city will be part of a 7-night Greek Islands itinerary in June 2026. Passengers will enjoy a day sailing along the Athos Peninsula, with views of its historic monasteries. Notably, Star Clippers will be one of the few cruise lines visiting this destination.
• Pesaro, Italy: This tender port opens opportunities for excursions to San Marino, one of the world’s smallest countries, and the UNESCO World Heritage town of Urbino. Pesaro offers travelers a rare chance to explore these unique destinations from the comfort of a tall ship.
• Šibenik, Croatia: Known for its stunning coastal scenery and historic landmarks, Šibenik is a new addition that promises to delight fans of Mediterranean culture.
• Monopoli and Barletta, Italy: Located in the Puglia region, these charming Italian towns offer travelers a glimpse into the rich history and culinary traditions of southern Italy.

An Intimate Sailing Experience

Star Clippers’ fleet of three tall ships—Star Flyer, Star Clipper, and Royal Clipper—is renowned for creating intimate travel experiences. Unlike larger cruise ships, these vessels allow access to smaller ports, ensuring a more personal connection to the destinations. Fay McCormack, General Manager of Star Clippers’ UK GSA, emphasized the company’s dedication to offering “smaller, intimate destinations,” aligning with the cruise line’s tradition of exploring hidden gems of the Mediterranean.

Sailing Highlights and Pricing

Travelers have several itineraries to choose from, each offering unique experiences:

• 3-Night Cruise on Royal Clipper: Departing from Rome on September 9, 2026, prices start at £788 per person, based on a lead-in cabin with a cruise-only rate.
• 7-Night Cruise on Star Flyer: Departing from Athens throughout summer 2026, prices start at £1683 per person.

To encourage early bookings, Star Clippers is offering an Early Booking Discount of up to 20% for reservations made before January 31, 2026.

A Gateway to Unique Destinations

The addition of these new ports enhances Star Clippers’ reputation as a leader in boutique sailing experiences. These destinations, many of which are rarely visited by mainstream cruise lines, offer opportunities for cultural immersion, historic exploration, and breathtaking scenery.

• Day Trips to San Marino: From Pesaro, travelers can explore the ancient republic, renowned for its medieval architecture and stunning vistas.
• Historic Towns and Villages: Ports like Monopoli and Barletta provide an authentic taste of Italian life, away from the crowded tourist hubs.
• Natural Beauty and Tradition: Gythio, a lesser-known Greek port, is celebrated for its picturesque waterfront and charming local culture.

Impacts on the Travel Industry

Star Clippers’ focus on smaller, exclusive destinations aligns with growing trends in slow travel and sustainable tourism, which prioritize meaningful and less commercialized experiences.

Benefits to Travelers

• Access to Rare Destinations: Ports like Ouranoupolis and Pesaro are not on the itineraries of mainstream cruise lines, offering a unique draw for seasoned travelers.
• Personalized Journeys: Smaller ships and fewer passengers create a more intimate atmosphere, enhancing the overall travel experience.
• Early Booking Incentives: Discounts encourage travelers to plan their trips well in advance, ensuring they secure a spot on these exclusive voyages.

Contributions to Local Economies

By visiting smaller ports, Star Clippers supports the economies of less-touristed areas, benefiting local businesses and communities. This approach fosters sustainable tourism while offering travelers a more authentic cultural experience.

Global Implications

The expanded Mediterranean itinerary reflects the growing demand for travel experiences that go beyond conventional destinations. By introducing rarely visited ports, Star Clippers caters to travelers seeking novelty and exclusivity.

The cruise line’s emphasis on cultural heritage, local interaction, and sustainability aligns with global travel trends. Such curated offerings encourage travelers to explore more deeply, fostering connections with destinations that larger ships cannot access.

A Summer to Remember

The new Mediterranean ports of call in Star Clippers’ 2026 schedule highlight the brand’s commitment to offering travelers an exceptional and intimate sailing experience. With destinations like Ouranoupolis, Pesaro, and Šibenik, the cruises promise adventure, culture, and exclusivity.

For those looking to explore the Mediterranean in a way that combines luxury with authenticity, these itineraries offer a perfect opportunity. As summer 2026 approaches, travelers can look forward to uncovering hidden gems and experiencing the Mediterranean like never before.