Star Clippers to add fourth ship in 2017.

After a hiatus of some seventeen years, Star Clippers are finally adding a new vessel to their classically styled, three ship fleet of recreated sailing vessels, creating a real buzz among devotees of the line's unique style of doing things. When she debuts in late 2017, the new ship will become the largest ever purpose built sailing passenger ship in the world.

To be named as the Flying Clipper, the new ship is modelled on the legendary France II sailing ship of the early 20th century. Currently under contruction in Croatia, the 8,770 ton ship will be crowned by five masts, hosting no less than thirty five gigantic sails that will be used as the vessel's principal means of propulsion. In all, this giant square rigger will field more than 6,350 metres of dacron sails when under full power. It will make her a truly awesome sight; a real seagoing cathedral on the ocean.

Like her three smaller siblings, it seems likely that the Flying Clipper will spend her summers in the Mediterranean, and winter in the Caribbean. Life on board these ships is like nothing else out there on the ocean.

Traditionally, cabins aboard Star Clippers tend to be small, wood panelled little sanctuaries, trimmed with brass, and with many boasting twin portholes. But with a total capacity of around 300 passengers, the new Flying Clipper will also offer some thirty four suites with balconies, as well as a quartet of owner's suites, giving her a greater range of accommodation options than on any of her older siblings.

As with her sisters, dress codes aboard Flying Clipper will be smart casual, with no need for jackets and ties. She will be an authentic, working sailing ship, one where passengers can climb the masts in safety harnesses if so inclined. There are none of the bells and whistles of conventional cruise ships; no Broadway musicals or ice shows here.

Instead, the real entertainment lies in the experience of being at sea, under sail. Like her sisters, the Flying Clipper will offer time travel of a sort, where the true entertaiment lies in watching that vast array of sailcloth being raised and lowered. Long and low slung, and with toweig masts, she will not have stablisers. This ship will almost certainly do her own brand of rock and roll in any decent swell.

But, if you're yearning for something different, the Flying Clipper is certainly one to watch for 2017.