These new itineraries also mix in a fair share of bucket-list destinations. Both sailings begin and end in Ko Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, which was featured in Alex Garland’s 1996 novel
The Beach. Laid-back Ko Pha Ngan, a Thai island also in Surat Thani province, is a renowned backpacker destination famous for the all-night Full Moon Party, while Ko Tao, which means “Turtle Island,” attracts serious snorkelers and scuba divers.
Star Clipper will also call in Pattaya, a beachside city with hundreds of bars and a reputation for raucous nightlife. More subdued guests, however, can head for cultural attractions like the vibrant Pattaya Floating Market and tranquil
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden. There’s also an optional overnight excursion to Cambodia’s iconic temples at Angkor Wat in Siem Reap.
While these routes are new, the tall ship experience is unchanged and unmatched. “It stole our hearts forever and left us with everlasting memories of full sails, new friendships, and life-changing cultural experiences,” says Virtuoso travel advisor Maria Mohinder. “You simply haven’t experienced luxury sailing until you do it with Star Clippers.”