Sail Back in History on a Tall Ship Cruise
If you think of majestic vessels crossing the high seas with their sails billowing around them, from pirate ships to elusive White Whale hunters, then you are thinking about tall ships. Now you, too, can experience the beauty and mystique of these lovely sailing vessels with a tall ship cruise vacation.A cruise vacation aboard a tall ship is a dream come true for anyone who loves sailing. Tall ship cruises give you the feeling of living in the time of the HMS Bounty or the Cutty Sark. These ships discovered the New World, brought black tea from China, and lurked in the Caribbean, manned by pirates hunting for easy prey. They fought in wars, and formed the backbone of England's famous armada. Tall ships were an important part of world history. They stand today as proud emblems of these pivotal events.
Even in a world driven by oil and coal, in the hearts of sailors nothing can replace wind rippling through the masts and filling the sails. On a tall ship cruise, you tap into this prestigious history and share in the feelings of adventure, pride, and exploration that drove the sailors of these fine vessels in times gone by. Like them, you'll feel the boards of the wooden deck below your bare feet, and enjoy the warmth of the sun on your face and the sea air in your lungs.
Life Aboard a Tall Ship Cruise
A tall ship is unlike your standard cruise ship. You won't be fighting with hundreds of other passengers for room and access to noisy activities and popular entertainment. Instead, you can try your hand at guiding the ship or snoozing by a deck side pool. There are few public rooms, and the limited number of other passengers means that you'll get to know your fellow cruisers well.
There is a reason why these cruise packages are known as barefoot cruises. Tall ship cruises tend to be very casual. You won't be packing jewelry and eveningwear. If you prefer the idea of staying in your swimsuit or a t-shirt and shorts, you're in the right place.
You can expect a relaxed, party atmosphere. The ships move at the whim of wind and waves, which means that there will be no tight schedules. Rum swizzles and grog flow freely, and having a great time with your other passengers is a top priority. And, one area in which tall ships equal or exceed standard cruise ships is the food. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are lavish affairs, usually in buffet style.
A Chance to Explore
Most sailing is done at night, which means that you spend your days at port, exploring seaside towns or deserted islands. These cruises enter harbors that are too shallow for mega cruise ships. That means that you will have the chance to see many locations that are off the beaten path, freeing you from crowds of tourists.For a vacation that uplifts the soul while paying homage to the rich heritage and history of sailing vessels, a tall ship cruise can't be beat. Among the forerunners in these cruise packages are Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, a known leader in the industry.