A tall ship cruise offers a unique way to explore lesser-known Caribbean islands, far from the crowded ports visited by large cruise liners. The Star Flyer, a four-masted barquentine carrying 166 guests, sails from Sint Maarten to secluded bays and small islands that rarely see tourist traffic.
Barbuda, with only 3,000 residents, is half the size of Antigua and sees few cruise ships. The ship moors off River Bay, a spot so small it is not on Google Maps. Visitors can explore deserted beaches and the Caribbean's largest frigatebird colony, where males inflate red pouches to attract females.
Unlike conventional cruise ships, tall ships like the Star Flyer have portholes instead of balconies and steep stairs instead of lifts. Activities include tying knots, reading nautical charts, and climbing the rigging. There are no cooking classes or casinos, but passengers enjoy saltwater pools and crew talent shows.
In Dominica, the ship docks among yachts at Portsmouth rather than the busier Roseau. The island, known as the Nature Island, is home to the Kalinago indigenous people. At Touna Aute Carib Native Village, visitors see fruit trees, learn about traditional medicine, and taste cassava bread and tuna stew.
The journey also includes stops at Terre-de-Haut in the Îles des Saintes, a tiny French-speaking island of just two square miles. Throughout the voyage, the ship visits places like Falmouth in Antigua, which sees only three ships per week, offering a tranquil alternative to the main ports.
