Have you ever dreamed of sailing through the Greek Islands on a tall ship with sails billowing above you, salty sea breeze in your hair, and the soundtrack of waves and laughter carrying you through the day?
That was my reality for a week aboard the Star Clipper, and I can honestly say — it was nothing like your average cruise. It was intimate, full of character, and left me with memories I’ll be chasing for a long time.
Day 1 – Embarkation in Athens
We boarded the Star Clipper in Piraeus (Athens), welcomed by a cheerful crew and the scent of salty sea air. The ship itself was beautiful — like stepping into a classic novel but with modern comforts.
After settling in and completing the lifeboat drill, we all gathered at the Tropical Bar for our first toast. As the sails unfurled and we slowly drifted away from Athens under the stars, champagne in hand, the whole moment felt a little unreal.
Day 2 – At Sea: Settling Into the Rhythm
Our first full day at sea was all about soaking up ship life. I started with yoga on deck, followed by some very competitive deck golf and Petanque. Throughout the day we had fun, hands-on sessions like learning how to tie sailing knots and understanding the ship’s layout.
That night’s Star Clippers Fashion Show was a hilarious highlight — travel agents turned models showing off themed outfits on deck, backed by live music and a very enthusiastic crowd. Silly, yes — but so memorable.
Day 3 – Dikili, Türkiye: Ancient Wonders & White Night
We docked in Dikili and joined the Ancient Pergamon excursion, which absolutely blew us away. Our guide brought the ancient site to life with storytelling and passion, and the views from the cable car ride up to the Acropolis were stunning.
Later, we visited a traditional rug centre, watched live weaving, and learned how natural dyes are made. It was unexpectedly fascinating.
That evening turned into White Night — not something we were expecting, but everyone rallied with what they had. The result? An elegant evening on deck with dancing and a dazzling light show projected onto the sails.
Day 4 – Limnos: Laid-Back Island Life
While our morning excursion didn’t quite deliver, Limnos itself was lovely. We wandered the village of Myrina, shopped at small boutiques, and found a quiet beach for a swim. The water was crystal clear and the perfect temperature — absolute bliss.
Back on board, the afternoon was easy-going, with water sports and cocktails, before ending the day with stargazing on deck.
We docked in Dikili and joined the Ancient Pergamon excursion, which absolutely blew us away. Our guide brought the ancient site to life with storytelling and passion, and the views from the cable car ride up to the Acropolis were stunning.
Later, we visited a traditional rug centre, watched live weaving, and learned how natural dyes are made. It was unexpectedly fascinating.
That evening turned into White Night — not something we were expecting, but everyone rallied with what they had. The result? An elegant evening on deck with dancing and a dazzling light show projected onto the sails.
Day 5 – Skiathos: Summer Mode Activated
We spent the day on beautiful Skiathos, first with a guided tour, then time to ourselves. Think: wandering the cobbled streets, grabbing iced coffee at a waterfront café, dipping into boutiques, and relaxing beachside. It was one of those golden, slow-paced travel days you never want to end.
That night, the ship slipped out of port to the soft sounds of piano and the glow of sunset — pure magic.
This was hands-down my favourite day. We joined the Mamma Mia Tour in Skopelos and visited multiple filming locations from the movie — including the iconic cliff-top chapel, Agios Ioannis.
With lush greenery, turquoise coves, and a fun mix of film facts and free time for a swim, the whole tour had a joyful energy.
Back onboard, the crew threw a Greek-themed night with traditional music and dancing — and yes, we all got involved!
Day 6 – Skopelos: Mamma Mia Dreams
This was hands-down my favourite day. We joined the Mamma Mia Tour in Skopelos and visited multiple filming locations from the movie — including the iconic cliff-top chapel, Agios Ioannis.
With lush greenery, turquoise coves, and a fun mix of film facts and free time for a swim, the whole tour had a joyful energy.
Back onboard, the crew threw a Greek-themed night with traditional music and dancing — and yes, we all got involved!
Day 7 – Poros: Choose Your Own Adventure
Poros was a slower day, and I loved it. We skipped the excursions and wandered the town, grabbed a slow lunch in the sunshine, and squeezed in one last ocean swim.
The ship’s energy was calm and happy — everyone savouring the final hours of the trip. That night, it was Pirate Night, and guests showed up in DIY costumes, dancing under the sails to classic tunes. It was chaotic and brilliant.
Day 8 – Return to Athens
We returned to Athens early in the morning, a little tired but completely content.
