The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, commonly known as La Seu

Malta, Balearic Islands & Spain

Valletta - Malaga - Example 11 Day Cruise aboard Star Clipper
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Set sail from Valletta, Malta’s walled capital founded by the Knights of St. John, for an 11-day cruise to Malaga aboard the Star Clipper. After a day at sea, reach Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital, where the medieval Castello quarter rises above Baroque churches and Roman stonework. Continue to Carloforte on the island of San Pietro, a fishing town founded by Ligurian settlers in the 18th century. Cross to the Balearic Islands for Mahon on Menorca, credited with the invention of mayonnaise, and Palma de Mallorca, where a vast Gothic cathedral towers over the harbor. On mainland Spain, see Cartagena’s Roman Theater, then use Motril as a base for exploring Granada or the villages of the Alpujarras before ending in Malaga, home to the Moorish Alcazaba.
Mahon, Menorca Explore Malta's capital Get stunning views of historic Cartagena Explore Palma de Mallorca Cagliari’s historic guardian: the majestic Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria standing tall above the sparkling Sardinian sea. The scenic view of the Port of Mahon in Menorca, Spain Malaga, Spain The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, commonly known as La Seu

Highlights

  • Tour the museums and grand churches of Valletta’s World Heritage old city
  • Climb to the walled medieval Castello above the town of Cagliari
  • Taste freshly caught tuna at a local trattoria in Carloforte
  • Seek out the hidden coves along the rugged coast of San Pietro

Activities

Places Visited

Activity Level: Variable

Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.

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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Valletta, Malta | Embark

Join the Star Clipper in Valletta, the small capital of Malta, built on a peninsula in the 1500s by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order. This fortified city is steeped in history and is recognized as both a European Art City and a World Heritage City. Set aside time for its many museums, palaces, and grand churches, and make sure to visit at least one of its lovely gardens.

Day 2: At Sea

Star Clippers voyages offer a classic and stylish way to travel, with the breeze gently moving you between remarkable destinations. Today on board, unwind on a deck chair or take a refreshing swim in one of the top-deck pools. If you want more adventure, try climbing the rigging or taking a turn at steering the ship. You can also wander indoors to find inviting lounges and a tranquil library.

Day 3: Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy

Cagliari is the capital city of the Italian island of Sardinia. It's known for its hilltop Castello, a medieval walled quarter situated high above the rest of the town. It has a rich and varied heritage reflected in its buildings that includes Baroque churches, Medieval towers, Italian Art Nouveau as well as Roman stonework. Sardinia's fabled beaches are also accessible and as you would expect the restaurants in and around the town are excellent too.

Day 4: Carloforte, Sardinia, Italy

Tucked away on the small island of San Pietro, off the southwestern coast of Sardinia, Carloforte exudes Mediterranean charm and authenticity. Founded by Ligurian settlers in the 18th century, this colorful fishing town is known for its pastel houses, cobbled lanes, and seafaring traditions. You can stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy freshly caught tuna at a local trattoria, or explore the island’s rugged coastline dotted with hidden coves. With its unique blend of Sardinian and Ligurian culture, warm hospitality, and tranquil atmosphere, Carloforte offers a delightful glimpse into a slower, more timeless rhythm of Italian island life.

Day 5: At Sea

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, and a peaceful library.

Day 6: Mahon, Menorca, Spain

Gracious Georgian buildings climb the steep hills behind the Moll de Ponent. Mahon's heritage also includes the invention of mayonnaise and the first distillation of gin from juniper berries.

Day 7: Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Towering over the harbor, Palma's enormous Gothic cathedral is a powerful symbol of the religious fervor which gripped all of Spain shortly after the defeat of the Moors. Built by Jaume I, its vast open nave and soaring Gothic columns have been added to over the centuries. Behind the Cathedral, a maze of twisting streets leads to designer boutiques and open-air markets.

Day 8: At Sea

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, and a peaceful library.

Day 9: Cartagena, Spain

Cartagena is a historic port city steeped in rich history and fascinating culture. Nestling between the hills and the Mediterranean Sea, the city offers an enchanting mix of historic sites, including the Roman Theater, picturesque beaches and a lively atmosphere.

Day 10: Motril, Spain

Motril, on Spain's southern coast, is a vibrant port city steeped in history, culture and Mediterranean charm. It is a popular seaside destination offering a unique combination of beautiful beaches, historic monuments and culinary delights. Motril is an excellent base for exploring the city of Granada, the villages of the Alpujarras or the rum distillery and tropical fruit plantation.

Day 11: Malaga, Spain | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Malaga's fortress palace of the Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro are splendid examples of Moorish architecture. But it is in Granada that you can see the most romantic and magnificent expression of the Arabesque style in the glorious Alhambra Palace.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.

Ship/Hotel

Star Clipper

Star Flyer/Star Clipper Exterior

Star Clipper

Star Clipper is a 170-passenger vessel designed to provide a unique traveling experience unlike any other cruise vacation. Step aboard and discover a new age of sailing, where the traditions of the past are happily married to the comforts and amenities of the present day.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Exterior
Star Flyer/Star Clipper library

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

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Per person starting at
$3,810 2-3 travelers
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 6
Category 6
Located on the Commodore Deck, this inside cabin features upper/lower berths and a bathroom with shower.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 5
Category 5
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this inside/outside cabin features a raised double bed, two lower beds, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin 4
Category 4
Located on the Commodore Deck, this outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 3
Category 3
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 2
Category 2
Located on the Clipper Deck, this large outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 1
Category 1
Located on the Main & Sun Decks, this deluxe deck cabin features two lower beds that can convert to a double bed, minibar, marble-lined bathroom with whirlpool bath, and cabin doors that open onto the deck.
Owner's Suite view
Owner's Cabin (Double)
Located on the Clipper Deck, this deluxe outside cabin features a double bed, sitting area, minibar, and marble-lined bathroom with whirlpool.

Notes

Single supplement: A single supplement fare is available at 150% of the published cruise fare for categories 2-6 during the season in which passengers are traveling. It is available at 200% for category 1 cabins, Deluxe Suites, and Owner's Suites. Single space is capacity controlled.

Children's rate: Savings may be available for children under 18 years when traveling with a full-paying adult on select sailings and subject to availability. Contact us for details.
Included
  • 10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 10 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • All meals and snacks (open seating) including: Coffee and tea are available 24 hours a day. Different juices are included only for breakfast.
  • Ocean transportation to remote ports.
  • Complimentary snorkeling, kayaks, paddle boarding, water-skiing, windsurfing, and sunfish sailing (subject to weather conditions and local authorities).
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Gratuities
  • Visa
  • All transfers to/from the boat from airports.
  • Laundry services 
  • Medical services
  • Shore Excursions
  • Alcoholic drinks and sodas.

Map

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.9 | 1083 reviews
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1 month ago
The ship was beautiful. I loved being able to swim off the platform! Great food, good drinks, great atmosphere. The staff is wonderful as well.
Vita Barci
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5 months ago
This is a fabulous, very upscale sailing experience. Star Clipper is a tall clipper ship with masts and sails. You actually feel the waves and the movement of the ship. You get to see and experience the excitement of the raising and lowering of the sails depending on the winds. The ships hold only about 150 people so the experience is nothing like regular cruise ships that carry thousands of passengers. The small number of passengers allow you to get to know people and make friends.
Christina
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5 months ago
I wanted to visit some of the islands in the Mediterranean that most cruise ships don’t go to. A friend recommended that I try a sailing ship so I googled and found the sea clippers and Adventure Life. My experience booking with them was excellent. They were professional and responsive. I’d use them again plus recommend them.
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11 months ago
Our Balkans trip was the perfect blend of adventure, history, and cultural discovery. Each country offered something special—from Albania’s lively energy and stunning mountain landscapes to Montenegro’s breathtaking Bay of Kotor and Bosnia’s rich mix of cultures and moving history. The fall colors and scenic drives made every mile memorable. We loved the balance of guided tours, hikes, local food and wine experiences, and time to explore on our own. Our guides, Loren and Ernest, were outstanding—knowledgeable, engaging, and full of local insight and humor. Even after traveling more than 1,000 miles together, the journey never felt long or dull. It was a beautifully curated itinerary that captured the very best of the Balkans.
Nancy K
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1 year ago
Knowledgable and responsive staff made the booking go smoothly!
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