It was our hearts desire to sail on the Royal Clipper after seeing her come into view at Rodney Bay when we were staying in St Lucia some years ago. We love cruising and the luxury of visiting interesting and beautiful destinations. Not so with this sailing vessel. Embarkation was a nightmare. No one to greet you at the terminal. Once boarding the ship the we had to queue for over forty minutes in the lounge/piano bar to be registered and assigned keys. It was an awful experience as the Crewe admitted the air conditioning had been turned off. The sweat was pouring off the couple in front of us and a gentleman behind us had to leave the queue to go outside for fresh air. No apology was given - the explanation was that they were short staffed!! We booked the deluxe cabin with balcony Sadly it had seen better days - clean yes as our steward was wonderful - upholstery was tired and worn - woodwork also. Bathroom needed regrouting . The outside table had chipped edges and stained. Not what you would expect from their so called top accommodation. You would think being under sail is a soothing experience then think again. The noise from the whinches turning the sails and constant noisy hmmming from generators etc meant interrupted sleep every night.

If you like to dine at a reasonable time then be prepared to share a table with strangers. We had to wait until after 9.30pm to eat to ensure a table for two - albeit we were invariably sat on tables for 6 or more as there were only two tables for 2 and unfortunately they were positioned directly at the bottom of the staircase into the dining room - therefore on full view to diners entering and leaving the restaurant - not ideal.

The Tropical Bar should have been paradise on the sea however. to enjoy cocktails propped up on high wooden stools all evening is neither comfort or luxury. Tables with comfortable chairs were nowhere to be found. On deck and around the pool areas there were sun beds dating back to the 80’s. Steamers with padded cushions did not exist. Wooden benches facing inwards were the only seating. Read more