Star Clippers’ ships are known for visiting off-the-beaten-path locales that big cruise ships cannot access, allowing you a more authentic experience in ports around the globe. Our sailing itineraries in Southeast Asia have focused on Indonesia and Thailand over the past few years, but a pair of new itineraries for 2020 will now also visit mystical Cambodia on four, 10- and 11-night itineraries that depart from the exotic Thai port of Ko Sami.

Here are five reasons why a Star Clippers authentic sailing adventure is an ideal way to visit the beautiful and culturally rich country of Cambodia:

• Explore the New and Old in Emerging Sihanoukville: This coastal town, located on the Gulf of Thailand, has seen a good deal of growth in recent years and is known as one of Cambodia’s more cosmopolitan destinations. But it’s also rich both in history and natural beauty, making it an ideal locale for a Star Clippers port of call. Guests looking for a taste of authentic Cambodia can opt to explore the town’s history with a visit to the oldest fishing village, impressive pagodas, working monasteries and a bustling local marketplace. Those who want to heed the call of Mother Nature will enjoy a tour of 60,000-acre Ream National Park with its mangrove swamps, 150 species of birds and an estuary system that is home to the Dugong, a gentle marine mammal also known as a Sea Cow, which spends its time grazing on sea grasses.
• Hang Around on Monkey Island: Koh Rong, also known as Monkey Island, is located off the coast of Sihanoukville and features 27 miles of pristine beach. Known for the beauty of its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and dense jungle, Koh Rong is an ideal locale for a day of swimming, strolling or just relaxing. Guests who want to stay active can play on the kayaks, water skis and other toys provided by the Star Clippers sports team.
• Check Angkor Wat Off The Bucket List:Guests looking for that iconic Cambodia experience will want to add the optional, two-day excursion to visit the famous temple complex of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. In addition to seeing this fascinating city, guests will have the opportunity to tour Angkor Wat Temple, Angkor Tom Temple, Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm with a private guide. The visit to Angkor Wat will end on a literal high note with an eight-minute helicopter flight along the magnificent moat which surrounds the temple complex. This special excursion includes hotel accommodations, roundtrip flights from Sihanoukville, transfers, meals, and guided visits to the temples.
• Arrive Under Full Sail: Star Clippers’ fleet of tall clipper ships are true sailing vessels, meaning they sail solely under wind power whenever possible—a unique and exhilarating experience that no other mainstream cruise line can claim. Each night when the ship leaves port, guests gather on the top deck for “sail away,” which allows for incredible views of these beautiful Cambodian ports of call from a different perspective. For the ultimate long view, brave guests are invited to climb the ship’s rigging to the crow’s nest—located almost 100 feet in the air.

Original Blog Post: https://blog.starclippers.com/four-reasons-to-visit-cambodia-onboard-a-star-clippers-sailing-ship.html

Original Date Posted: Friday, 11 October 2019