The Royal Clipper
The Star Clippers cruise line newest ship, the Royal Clipper, began sea trials in June 2000. The ship, the world's biggest sailing ship, has 42 sails containing over 65 thousand square yards of material. The ship is 439 feet long and is modeled after the legendary five-masted Preussen. The German-built Preussen was launched in 1902 and sank in 1910 after colliding with a steamship in the English Channel.
The five-masted Royal Clipper is fitted with a special ballast system to help the ship ride smoother and not list in high winds. Passengers can climb to the first crow's nest on each mast and sit and enjoy the view. This massive sailing ship has three swimming pools, a piano bar, casino, library, health club, and a viewing lounge below sea level.
The ship can sail with or without its two engines, depending on the weather. Interestingly, the ship's top speed of 17 knots can be reached using sail only. (The top speed with the engines is 13.5 knots).
According to the London Guardian, once the Royal Clipper's sea trials are completed, she will sail from Rotterdam to Monaco via London or Dover in mid July. Star Clippers cruise line currently plans for the ship to sail from Cannes in the south of France in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter.
