Crusing on a tall ship

With a holiday on the seas a timeless way of enjoying a relaxing holiday, holidaymakers travelling on their cruise travel insurance will normally expect to sail on a modern luxury liner. However, some passengers are opting to take a step back in time and enjoy a trip on a tall ship.

Tea clippers, as they were known, had a reputation for speed and grace, before the introduction of steam made their presence redundant. Replica models, complete with 36,000 feet of sails, are now back on the seas, offering both short and long voyages to the public.

For those aged over 65 travel insurance can often come at a premium for anything deemed as higher risk, but a tall ship is as secure as any modern liner sailing the oceans.

The decor aboard the ships is highly traditional, replicating the original ships in every way possible, including polished teak decks, brass sail winches and four lofty masts. The ambience aboard tall ship tends to vary somewhat from more traditional cruises, with passengers encouraged to adopt a slightly more relaxed approach. Dinner dress is often casual and the entertainment, while still a feature, is more intimate and informal.

It is also possible to experience the vessel in a way not normally possible on a big liner, with passengers able to climb up to the crows nest, have a go at rope-hauling or climb onto the nets fastened either side of the bowspirit, to gaze directly at the open waters through the mesh. Although not strictly considered as hazardous activities, it may be advisable for passengers wanting to have a go to check whether their standard cruise travel insurance or over 65 travel insurance policy would cover any mishaps.

However, for those wanting to take it easier, the opportunity of reclining in a sunchair with a glass in one hand and a good book in the other always remains an option...