A romantic pre-Christmas Caribbean getaway

Tall ship specialist Star Clippers is offering a one-off, ultra-luxury December getaway to the Caribbean, combining a seven-night cruise of the Windward Islands with pre- and post-cruise stays at The House, one of the most elegant boutique hotels of Barbados’ famed Platinum Coast.

Departing Gatwick on December 7 and returning on December 22, the offer includes four nights in the all-suite hotel, which is part of Barbados’ Elegant Hotels group, followed by seven nights cruising the Caribbean from Barbados, the winter base for Royal Clipper, calling at St. Lucia, Dominica, St. Kitts, Iles des Saintes and Martinique.

After the cruise, there are three more nights at The House to enjoy the complimentary watersports, daily canapés at sunset and romantic dining under the stars. The hotel, which has just 34 suites, is located right on the beach, adjacent to Daphne’s restaurant, frequented by the many celebrities who visit the island and sister to the famous Daphne’s in London.

On board the five-masted Royal Clipper, guests will enjoy the prestige of gliding into glamorous ports on one of the world’s most head-turning ships. As well as its own underwater spa, Royal Clipper offers complimentary watersports, the convivial indoor-outdoor Tropical Bar, and daily talks on sailing by the captain and on the environment by the resident marine biologist.

The price of £2,999 per person includes flights from London Gatwick, daily champagne breakfast at The House, all meals on board Royal Clipper, 14 nights’ accommodation, transfers in Barbados, a 30% saving off usual hotel prices and, for those who book by May 31, a complimentary bottle of champagne on boarding the ship.

Book through a travel agent or visit starclippers.co.uk.