WINDSTAR OR STAR CLIPPERS- THE SAIL OF THE CENTURY?

As part of it's six ship fleet of intimate cruising paragons, Windstar offers a trio of classy ships driven at times by sail. With their towerig masts, billowing sheets of dacron (it's a kind of more durable canvas substitute) and sleek white hulls, that Windstar trio cut an awesome swathe, wherever they go.

And Star Clippers? They, too, offer a trio of sailing ships with towering masts and heaving acres of dacron, albeit on hulls that truly do resemble the clipper ships of the nineteenth century. Each one is a statement of swaggering intent, a true cathedral on the sea. It is impossible to see one of these ships, and not be moved.

So, which of these two elegant, evocative experiences is for you? Both are smart casual in terms of dress codes on board, and both tend to be low key in terms of evening entertainment. Each company echoes and plays up the maritime theme, and the connection enjoyed by passengers to the sea and the world around them. So far, so samey. But wait....

There's no question that the Windstar ships have bigger, better cabins, and more dining options. There is a real pool, and hot tubs, too. There is at least one elegant main lounge, and evening entertainment that, while low key, is highly styled. On the other hand, the look and feel is definitely that of a small cruise ship, with masts and sails added almost as an afterthought.

The Star Clippers trio look and feel like the real thing; you can help raise and lower the sails, and even climb the masts in a safery harness under supervision. The focus on maritime authenticity is almost relentless; the ships are all maple wood and gleaming brass, with coiled ropes on deck. The cabins, while smaller, have portholes with brass rims. Paintings of long gone sailing ships appear everywhere, like the portraits of family ancestors.

While the Windstar ships spend most of their time under diesel power, with the sails used as a kind of dressing, the Star Clippers operate the other way round. There is no question that the clippers are much more of the real deal; the authentic 'holy grail' of real sailing royalty.

But don't discount Windstar simply on those grounds. They invariably offer far more extensive menus, and sometimes more than one dining venue, too. The feeling on board is casual, indulgent elegance; not too stuffy, and without the crowds. It's a fine, very agreeable way to travel, indeed.

So. A dead heat? That's up to you. My personal suggestion? Obviously, try both.