Published on
November 4, 2025
Beginning in the summer of 2026, the world’s largest, five-masted sailing vessel, the Royal Clipper, will, for the first time, allow travellers to cruise the Eastern Mediterranean in the Adriatic region. During that time, Royal Clipper will conduct an advanced round-trip, 7-day cruises from Venice that will set sail every Saturday, from June 27 to August 22, 2026.
Participants will be able to visit some of the most picturesque historic sites in Croatia, Montenegro, and Italy, with the travel route consisting of both popular Adriatic ports and less frequently traveled coastal jewels.
Star Clippers has a reputation for innovation in contemporary sail cruising, promoted with rich sailing history. Royal Clipper embodies this vision, with the ship’s five masts capturing the wind, sailing through the surrounding azure waters, complemented by the Royal Clipper’s spacious decks framing a Royal Clipper sailing pontoon.
Elegance means beauty without unnecessary adornment. With this virtue, Royal Clipper’s luxury interior matches the surrounding sea and spacious sky, welcoming ship guests.
Star Clippers transform travelers into sea adventurers with well-appointed cabins, superb dining, an endless list of recreational attractions during cruise time, including refreshing swimming pools, aromatherapeutic spa offers, fine cocktails offered from the decks, and remarkable views.
The ship’s small size permits access to ports inaccessible to larger cruise vessels, providing an enhanced immersive experience for guests. The Adriatic itineraries will fuse the excitement of history-bound sailing with the comforts of contemporary luxury, creating an experience that combines action and unwind at sea.
Sailing the Adriatic will let guests visit some of the most beautiful and historical regions located in Southern Europe. The Royal Clipper will visit myriad ports in Croatia, Montenegro, and Italy, some of which are lesser-known and allow guests to explore the rich heritage and culture of the area in greater depth.
Šibenik, situated along the Croatian coast and a UNESCO World Heritage site for the moated Cathedral of St. James with Archangels and its charming district, boasts medieval architecture and archaeological treasures. The town is surrounded by a beautiful, crystal clear sea water from the Adriatic ocean. The unique town’s architectural detail are embraced by the more modern constructions.
The local atmosphere and the narrow, stone streets surrounded by both medieval and contemporary constructions reminds of a Venetian charm.Vis (Komiza), Croatia – Despite its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful beaches, theand beaches, Vis Island is still one of the unexplored destinations of Croatia. On Vis island, the small fishing village of Komiza can offer its guests an authentic notion of the island thanks to the aged structure and the untouched beaches. This can work as a perfect substitute for over-visited islands of the Adriatic.
Rovinj, Italy – Rovinj is located in the region of Istria and is a beautiful port town that still carries Venetian characteristics. It is one of the most beautiful towns in the Istria Peninsula of Italy, thanks to the vivid architecture, maze-like passages, and dynamic port. Visitors can stroll on in the narrow alleyways and pick up some local delicacies in the marketplaces, as well as a visit the greatly appreciated St. Euphemia Church.
Dubrovnik, Croatia – Nestled with the ancient medieval city walls, the and the beaches of Vis Island are still unexplored as they offer calmness and a beautiful atmosphere. This is what the city is noted for, and earning the title, “gem of the Adriatic,” is not so difficult. Apart from that, It is one of the most sought out cities in the region and the walls that surround the ancient town are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Apart from that, one of the most sought out cities in the region, the town is enclosed in authentically crafted buildings, narrow cobbled lanes, and offers splendid views of the Adriatic Sea.
Gibraltar – Besides, the route will have a stop at Gibraltar, allowing the guests to appreciate the British Overseas Territory’s fascinating hybrid of British and Mediterranean influences, the Rock of Gibraltar and its panoramic views, along with the rest of the territory.
Cultural and Scenic Highlights of the Adriatic
As well as this, guests aboard the Royal Clipper will appreciate a multitude of shore excursions at each of these ports. These excursions will include narrated guided tours of the city, visits to historical points of interest and the beaches, as well as wine tasting experiences. Having several days at each port will offer guests a great opportunity to discover the towns and sample the local culture, including the food and the shopping.
Famed for its clear waters and stunning coastal views, Croatia’s beaches can be visited along with the famous Vis and Dubrovnik. Travellers can enjoy visiting Croatia’s famous beaches.
Guests can enjoy authentic Italian food in Rovinj and have the opportunity to savor local specialities such as truffle pasta, olive oil, fresh seafood, and local wines.
Famed for its stunning UNESCO-listed bay, which is dotted with fortified medieval towns along with postcard-worthy landscapes, the bay is a popular stop for cruises in Montenegro. Guests have the option to either take a boat tour around the bay or admire Kotor’s steep streets and ancient churches.
The Emphasis on Eco-Friendly Travel and Experience on Small Ships
The Royal Clipper combines luxurious travel with sustainable practices and offering a low-impact travel experience in sail. Because of the ship’s small size as well as its traditional sailing architecture, it provides lower travel impact than larger cruise ships. Royal Clipper aims to abide to responsible travel practices through minimising their eco-defensive practices.
In the explored neglected ports and smaller islands within the Adriatic, the ship facilitates the growth of eco-tourism, along with the local culture. As a result, it provides economic advantages to the local people while also preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Bookings and Sailing Availability
Now, bookings for the Royal Clipper’s sails for the year 2026 can be made, as well as travelers have the freedom to select from various itineraries that visit the Mediterranean as well as Northern Europe. Passengers who wish to obtain a spot in one of the exclusive sails, should book tickets as soon as possible, as limited cabins are prepared for each cruise.
Conclusion
Royal Clipper’s Adriatic sailings will begin in 2026 and will provide an exciting new choice for those wishing to combine luxury cruising with a sustainable approach to travel in the still largely unspoiled areas of Europe. The Royal Clipper will provide an astonishing range of experiences, whether visiting the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Croatia, dining around the Italian Mediterranean, or enjoying an incredible cruise around Ireland. The Royal Clipper offers a new travel experience, combining, for the first time in such manner, history, culture, and nature, blended into a seamless luxury cruise.
