Think cruising is not for you? The Royal Clipper might just change your mind.

Not all cruises involve enormous ships, thousands of passengers and a packed programme of entertainment. Some offer something altogether more interesting.

"I don't really think cruising is for me."

Is something I hear quite often.

And I understand why.

For many people, the word 'cruise' conjures up images of enormous ships, thousands of fellow passengers, crowded decks, organised entertainment and just feels like it would be “too much”.

If that doesn't sound particularly appealing, you are certainly not alone.

But what if I told you that cruising doesn't have to be like that?

Having sailed aboard Royal Clipper in August, I was reminded just how varied the world of cruising has become — and why it's so important to find the right ship, rather than simply the right destination.

The Royal Clipper is a sailing ship, not a floating resort.

A magnificent five-masted, 42 sail, square rigged ship accommodating just 227 guests.

And the difference is immediately apparent.

There are no vast shopping promenades, enormous entertainment venues or endless announcements encouraging you to join the next activity.

Instead, you'll find polished wood, nautical details, inviting deck spaces and an atmosphere that feels more like a private yacht than a conventional cruise ship. I met so many people who were on the ship for their 5th or 6th time.

The emphasis here is on enjoying the experience of being at sea.

And what an experience it is.

Watching those enormous sails unfurl as Vangelis' Conquest of Paradise plays is something I found genuinely moving.

It was one of the highlights of my August voyage, and a reminder that sometimes the journey itself can be just as memorable as the places you visit.

One of the misconceptions about Star Clippers is that you need to know something about sailing, or be particularly adventurous, to enjoy the experience.

You really don't.

You can take an interest in the workings of the ship, watch the crew handling the sails or, if you're feeling adventurous, try climbing to the crow’s nest. Not for me, but I enjoyed watching other people do it, surprisingly, it was mostly the ladies that did it!

Equally, you can spend your time reading on deck, enjoying the sunshine, bathing in the pools, swimming when the marina platform is down, or simply watching the coastline pass by.

There is no pressure to participate.

You choose how you spend your days, and that felt like a real luxury.

If you're accustomed to luxury hotels and beautifully appointed resorts, you may wonder whether a traditional sailing ship will provide the level of comfort you are used to.

It's important to understand that Royal Clipper offers a different interpretation of luxury.

This isn't a ship where you'll find enormous suites with private plunge pools, multiple speciality restaurants or personal butlers.

The cabins are generally more compact than those aboard modern luxury cruise ships, and the experience is less about lavish facilities and more about atmosphere, character and individuality.

Dining is relaxed, there's no need for elaborate evening dress (a big plus for me), and the relatively small number of guests creates a wonderfully sociable environment. The people I met at dinner were some of the nicest I have ever come across on my travels. I chose to do this trip on my own and never sat alone at a meal, there was always someone asking me to sit with them.

For me, the informality was just another part of the appeal.

Another advantage of travelling aboard a smaller ship is the opportunity to visit beautiful harbours and anchorages that larger vessels may be unable to access.

Depending on the itinerary, you might find yourself arriving somewhere by tender, with a picturesque waterfront or inviting beach waiting to be explored.

There's a lovely sense of connection with the places you visit.

And because the ship itself is such an integral part of the experience, even a day spent sailing can feel like a highlight rather than simply a day between ports.

I wouldn't suggest Royal Clipper to everyone.

If you enjoy having numerous restaurants to choose from, lavish evening entertainment and an extensive range of onboard facilities, there are other ships that will suit you better.

Likewise, if you require exceptionally spacious accommodation or have particular mobility requirements, it's important to consider the practicalities carefully. There are no lifts onboard

But if you enjoy intimate surroundings, beautiful coastlines and experiences that feel a little out of the ordinary, Royal Clipper is certainly worth considering.

You might even discover that you do enjoy cruising after all.

Perhaps you simply hadn't found the right kind of ship, yet …

Sunset over the Bay of Kotor.

One of the things I enjoy most about my work as a Luxury Travel Designer is introducing clients to experiences they might never have considered for themselves.

And having sailed aboard Royal Clipper, I now have an even better understanding of who will love her — and, equally importantly, who might prefer else.

Because choosing a cruise shouldn't simply be about finding a beautiful itinerary or an attractive price.

It's about finding the experience that suits you.

If you've always dismissed the idea of cruising, perhaps it's time to reconsider.

You may be pleasantly surprised.

Janet x