Her name is Royal Clipper and the world's oceans haven't seen anything like her since 1910 when the five-masted full-rigger Preussen was the largest sailing vessel anywhere. Her 56.000 sq ft of sail are supported on 5 masts reaching as much as 197 feet above the waterline. At 439 ft her length is longer than any true sailing vessel in the world. Virtual twin of Preussen in hull measurements, mega yacht Royal Clipper ,however, will represent for a fortunate 228 passengers in double occupancy the pinnacle of accommodations on a modern traditional sailing vessel.
Think of a three-deck midships atrium under the glass bottom of the largest of three swimming pools, funneling sunlight down through a superb piano lounge, then through a deck of de-luxe cabins and shops to the hushed dining room three levels down. The 14 super-de-luxe suites, each 255 sq ft in size, have each its own private balcony. The 90 outside double cabins are surprisingly spacious, all 148 sq ft, with queen size bed. The 6 inside double cabins are each 100 sq ft in size. A belle epoque library with fireplace, an outdoor tropical bar and ample all weather space on the main deck contributes to the yacht's family resemblance.
An intimate all-weather enclosed lookout lounge overlooks the bowsprit, the sails of the forward mast and the waters ahead. From the grandstand at the forward end of the sundeck passengers are able to oversee all bridge activity and in addition have an unparalleled open air view of all that lays ahead - frequently a sunset into which the ship is gliding silently or an off-beat port of call that is drawing ever closer.
Two landing craft platforms at the base of pivoting self levelling gangways at the ship's sides and a marina platform dropping down right from the stern, allow for all kinds of water sports. Royal Clipper is the first sailing ship to offer a window under the sea through thick glass portholes in the aptly named Captain Nemo Club which is a lookout lounge plus fitness and beauty centre near the bottom of the ship. The teak decks are so uncluttered and enormous that there are 93 sq ft of deck per passenger not including room taken by the three swimming pools.
Yes, there's diesel propulsion for when winds fail and a bow thruster for manoeuvring in harbour and all modern electronics but always reliance is put on what has been proven in the demanding classroom of the sea. The carefully maintained balance between the traditional and the finest mega yacht amenities ensures that the tradition of the great sailing vessels will endure, preserving the ways of old at sea.