The Blaudow Family from Neptune Beach, FL (two adults and two teen boys) thoroughly enjoyed a cruise on the Star Clipper over the winter holidays.  The authentic, tall sailing ship traveled round-trip from St. Maarten with stops in Nevis, Dominica, Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe, Antigua and St. Barth, mostly in small harbors that can’t be accessed by large cruise ships. It is a working tall ship and travels under sail whenever possible, giving you the real experience of sailing.  You can also climb the mast if you’re feeling brave (as one family member did)!   The Blaudows noted that the ship doesn’t have a casino, balconies or a fancy gym or spa, but the experience is so amazing, you won’t miss a thing.   In port, sports activities are available such as sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling and kayaking, weather permitting. The bridge can also be accessed if you’re interested on seeing how the ship is navigated.  The family enjoyed meeting so many interesting people among both the other passengers and crew including the president of the cruise line.  Excursion highlights included a zip line at Loterie Farm in St. Martin (the French Side), river tubing in Dominica, hiking in Guadeloupe and sailboat racing in Antigua.  Their cruise rate included shipboard credits that they used for an excursion, a great Thai massage on board and a nice bottle of wine. They also noted that the food was good and plentiful with vegetarian options at every meal. A pre-night cruise stay on the Dutch side of St. Maarten was comfortable in a spacious 2-bedroom condo at Princess Heights.  Overall the trip was a great success!