Live la dolce vita this summer on an Italy and Croatia sailing cruise with Star Clippers

Tall ship sailing specialist Star Clippers is offering special package prices on three culture and romance-packed itineraries this summer, departing in July and August and exploring the exquisite coastlines of Croatia, Montenegro, Corfu and southern Italy.

Each cruise, either from Venice to Rome or Rome to Venice, is aboard the cruise line’s flagship, the graceful, five-masted Royal Clipper, calling at chic yachting ports along the Croatian coast, as well as beautiful Kotor in Montenegro, the lush Greek island of Corfu and several ports in Italy, among them romantic Taormina in Sicily; the jetset island of Capri; and Ponza, a popular weekend retreat for yachting fans. The July 31 departure also visits Piran in Slovenia, a port undiscovered by most cruise lines.

The length of each voyage, 11 days, allows for plenty of time to relax on the sun-warmed teak decks, gazing up at thousands of feet of wind-filled sails, or sipping a cocktail in the al fresco Tropical Bar, or sprawling in the bowsprit nets, keeping a lookout for dolphins. Each itinerary includes a day at sea, too, during which guests can try activities like mast climbing.

The three sailing dates are:

· Royal Clipper, July 14, Rome/Venice: 11 nights from £2,059pp

· Royal Clipper, July 31, Venice/Rome: 11 nights from £1,879pp

· Royal Clipper, August 18, Rome/Venice: 11 nights from £2,149pp

Prices include return British Airways flights from London, transfers, 11 nights’ full board on the ship in a Category 6 cabin and watersports where possible at beach stops. To book, tel. 0845 200 6145 or visit www.starclippers.co.uk.