Sailing the Greek Isles aboard the majestic Star Clippers

Three consecutive seven-night cruises will cap the tall ship Star Clipper’s Greek Isles and Turkey 2012 sailing season in the Mediterranean.

The 110m 170-passenger replica clipper ship will sail from Athens on September 29, and October 6 and 13. The first and last cruise will visit ports in the Southern Cyclades (Rhodes, Bodrum, Dalyan River, Santorini and Hydra). The October 6 sailing will cover the Northern Cyclades, with highlights including an opportunity to visit the ancient site of Ephesus, the picturesque harbour and sacred cave of St John the Divine on Patmos, the remnants of old civilisations and the 11th century cliff-face monastery on Amorgos and the perfectly preserved Byzantine ruins on Monemvasia.

Prices start at $3022 including port charges, and all meals and entertainment on board. 

Star Clippers combines the romance of the legendary era of sailing ships with the indulgence of a luxury private yacht. The other sailing ships in the fleet are Royal Clipper and Star Flyer. It's a grand way to travel the high seas, with style and elegance, and a respectful nod to a rich history on these waters that have seen so many great ships throughout the centuries. What a way to travel!

For reservations contact your travel agent or Star Clippers on 1300 362 599 or email.

A Season of Sailing in Queensland

The colder winter months need not shy us from the crystal waters of Queensland - this is the season when spectacular racing regattas begin along the coastline and it's kicking off in the blue waters of Mooloolaba Bay with the newest event, Sail Mooloolaba on from June 4th - 12th, coinciding with the 15^th Musto Etchells Australasian Winter Championship from June 9th - 12th. 

If you're keen to get there for it, there's also some great ways to involve yourself in the spirit of sailing:

* Learn to sail with Sunshine Sailing Australia, with international ocean racer John Bankart at the helm. He offers a range of courses for novices through to experienced sailors keen to improve their skills. Based at Mooloolaba Wharf, you can choose from sailing lessons for the kids through to easy sailing skippered yacht charters.  

* The Mooloolaba Yacht Club welcomes visitors joining the club members for an afternoon of sailing around the Mooloolaba Bay. Fun sails are held every Wednesday and Sunday. Meet on canal side of The Wharf Tavern at The Mooloolaba Wharf Complex, at midday and 11am respectively. 

* Get out on the water with Liquid Getaway’s range of boat tours including scenic rides, surfing, snorkeling safaris and whale watching tours. Based at Mooloolaba Wharf, Liquid Getaway’s custom designed 12 seat boat provides a thrilling way to get close to marine life, including a pod of resident dolphins, turtles, rays and other wildlife during the ride.

Now in its second year, the Season of Sailing aims to attract visitors to sailing events being held from now until September along the Queensland coastline.

The Season of Sailing website offers a whole range of getaways where you can enjoy being part of these famous events including the world famous Hamilton Island Race Week. 

(Images courtesy Queensland Holidays apart from top right Etchells Australasian Winter Championships photo, courtesy of  Kylie Wilson.)