Five Reasons to Visit Cambodia Aboard an Authentic Star Clippers Sailing Ship

Five Reasons to Visit Cambodia Aboard an Authentic Star Clippers Sailing Ship         Miami, FL (October 2019) — Star Clippers' fleet of tall sailing ships are known for visiting off-the-beaten-path locales that big cruise ships cannot access, allowing guests a more authentic experience in ports around the globe. Star Clippers' sailing itineraries in Southeast Asia have focused on Indonesia and Thailand over the past few years, but a pair of new itineraries for 2020 will now also take guests to mystical Cambodia on four, 10- and 11-night itineraries that depart from the exotic Thai port of Ko Sami. Following are five reasons why a Star Clippers authentic sailing adventure is an ideal way to visit the beautiful and culturally rich country of Cambodia: Explore the New and Old in Emerging Sihanoukville: This coastal town, located on the Gulf of Thailand, has seen a good deal of growth in recent years and is known as one of Cambodia's more cosmopolitan destinations. But it's also rich both in history and natural beauty, making it an ideal locale for a Star Clippers port of call. Guests looking for a taste of authentic Cambodia can opt to explore the town's history with a visit to the oldest fishing village, impressive pagodas, working monasteries and a bustling local marketplace. Those who want to heed the call of Mother Nature will enjoy a tour of 60,000-acre Ream National Park with its mangrove swamps, 150 species of birds and an estuary system that is home to the Dugong, a gentle marine mammal also known as a Sea Cow, which spends its time grazing on sea grasses. Hang Around on Monkey Island: Koh Rong, also known as Monkey Island, is located off the coast of Sihanoukville and features 27 miles of pristine beach. Known for the beauty of its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and dense jungle, Koh Rong is an ideal locale for a day of swimming, strolling or just relaxing. Guests who want to stay active can play on the kayaks, water skis and other toys provided by the Star Clippers sports team.  Check Angkor Wat Off The Bucket List: Guests looking for that iconic Cambodia experience will want to add the optional, two-day excursion to visit the famous temple complex of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. In addition to seeing this fascinating city, guests will have the opportunity to tour Angkor Wat Temple, Angkor Tom Temple, Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm with a private guide. The visit to Angkor Wat will end on a literal high note with an eight-minute helicopter flight along the magnificent moat which surrounds the temple complex. This special excursion includes hotel accommodations, roundtrip flights from Sihanoukville, transfers, meals, and guided visits to the temples. Arrive Under Full Sail:  Star Clippers' fleet of tall clipper ships are true sailing vessels, meaning they sail solely under wind power whenever possible—a unique and exhilarating experience that no other mainstream cruise line can claim. Each night when the ship leaves port, guests gather on the top deck for "sail away," which allows for incredible views of these beautiful Cambodian ports of call from a different perspective. For the ultimate long view, brave guests are invited to climb the ship's rigging to the crow's nest—located almost 100 feet in the air. Book Now for Triple Savings: Guests booking the April departures of the 10- or 11-day Ko Samui round trip sailings qualify for the Triple Savings promotion of $1,200 air credit, $400 on board credit—which can be used for booking excursions, at the spa or the bar, or in the onboard shop—as well as 15% off a second sailing.         The 11-day Ko Samui itinerary will sail April 11 and October 10, with rates starting at $2,310 per person, based on double occupancy. The 10-day itinerary will sail April 22 and October 21, with rates starting at $2,100 per person, double.         Star Clippers sailings are set apart from other cruises in that many of the ports visited by their fleet of tall clipper ships cannot be accessed by larger vessels. This translates to fewer crowds, and a more authentic and intimate experience for guests.          For more than 25 years, Star Clippers has been introducing travelers to the thrill of modern tall ship sailing to remote ports in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Indonesia and Far East. The company operates three of the world's largest and tallest sailing vessels: Star Clipper and Star Flyer are traditional clipper ships with modern amenities carrying 170 guests, while the 227-guest Royal Clipper holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest and only five-masted, full-rigged sailing ship in service today. All three ships have expansive teak decks, swimming pools, informal dining, convivial tropical bars on deck and piano lounges.