08.05.2019
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Barcelona/Spain
Barcelona revels in contrasts. Many enthuse over the beautiful elegant squares and boulevards, while others look for medieval romance in the Gothic quarter. Some love the artistic treasures in the Picasso Museum or the Joan Miró Foundation, but for most people Barcelona is the capital of Catalan Art Nouveau and its glory is epitomised in the spectacular Palau de la Música. At every turn you encounter the playfully opulent creations of architect Antonio Gaudi. His exuberant fantasies are evident in the numerous houses, idiosyncratic parks and the famous uncompleted Sagrada Familia cathedral which he created.
Tarragona/Spain
Collioure/France
Sète/France
At sea
Antibes/France
Portovenere/Italy
Livorno/Italy
Disembarkation.
Livorno, itself a child of the Renaissance, is the gateway to Tuscany - the land of cypresses, the Italian lifestyle, art and architecture. Lucca is a Renaissance masterpiece. Magnificent palaces, richly decorated churches and elegant piazzas where you can see the Italians enjoying the summer - this jewel of a town combines the magnificence of typical Tuscan architecture with small town charm. Siena is one of the most beautiful Italian Gothic cities. Its old quarter, like the medieval towers of the world-famous walled town of San Gimignano, is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Overview
Artists’ Colonies, Fishing Villages & Charming Ports
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
A bright start into May – sailing along the Mediterranean coast to artists’ colonies, fishing villages and charming ports: Barcelona – Livorno
The small port town of Collioure
A tiny chapel on the rock, a picturesque fortified church and the mighty Château Royal are the first sights to greet you as you approach this small port from the sea. Collioure is a textbook example of a charming fishing village that has always attracted painters and poets thanks to its idyllic coastal location, colourful facades and fascinating light.
Little Venice in Languedoc: Sète
To one side the blue of the lagoon, as smooth as glass; opposite the Mediterranean Sea: Sète has found itself a comfortable spot by the water. With its colourful facades, the canals and bridges, the harbour town is considered the “Venice of Languedoc”. A little further north, the charming university town Montpellier invites to explore its mixture of art, culture and culinary delights.
Cinque Terre: five villages above the cliff tops
Alongside a coastal stretch of only about 12 kilometres (7.5 miles), the five Ligurian villages of the Cinque Terre sit like pearls on a string. The view from the sea offers a fascinating panorama: Brightly coloured, the dreamy villages Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore look out through the vineyards above sheer cliffs plunging steeply into the sea.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
12.05.2019
<read more>
Livorno/Italy
Livorno, itself a child of the Renaissance, is the gateway to Tuscany - the land of cypresses, the Italian lifestyle, art and architecture. Lucca is a Renaissance masterpiece. Magnificent palaces, richly decorated churches and elegant piazzas where you can see the Italians enjoying the summer - this jewel of a town combines the magnificence of typical Tuscan architecture with small town charm. Siena is one of the most beautiful Italian Gothic cities. Its old quarter, like the medieval towers of the world-famous walled town of San Gimignano, is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Portoferraio/Elba
Although Elba is only a small Tuscan island, you will be surprised by how diverse it is. Imposing cliffs, white sandy beaches, avenues of cypresses, vineyards and olive groves, traditional villages and elegant beach resorts make the place of Napoleon's exile somewhere you would in fact like to be banished for longer. The beautiful old town of Portoferraio with its narrow streets of steps and medieval fortress is set high up on a rocky headland. In the enchanting town of Porto Azzurro, the palm-lined promenades, charming piazzas and small beach are at the centre of the town's activities.
Portofino/Italy
Portofino has a prominent position on a peninsula on the Italian Riviera and, since the 1950s, has developed into an elegant marina. The "dolce vita" seems to have been born here. You can unwind in classy bars and cafés in front of beautifully restored facades, browse for treasures in the backstreets and observe the comings and goings on the port's promenade. At first glance, Portofino is a picturesque fishing village. However, you will soon notice that it is also a sophisticated retreat for exclusive megayachts, as well as a great hideaway for anyone who knows how to enjoy the charming and stylish traditional atmosphere.
Menton/France
Nice/France
Disembarkation.
Nice lies in one of the world's most lavishly endowed natural landscapes. The sea glows azure and the mountains in the background rise picturesquely up into the sky. Castle Hill gives you a fantastic view over the rambling old town - a labyrinth of alleyways with Baroque churches, pastel-coloured houses and red-tiled roofs. The Promenade des Anglais, a sophisticated, five-kilometre-(3 miles)long walkway along the magnificent Baie des Anges and its long beach, lies at the heart of the elegant new town, with its splendid palaces and aristocratic hotels in the Belle-Époque and Art Deco styles.
Overview
Under Full Sails in Tuscany & on the Côte d’Azur
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
The perfect break – take in the spring air under full sails in Tuscany and on the Côte d’Azur: Livorno – Nice
Short break from your daily routine
Although in the calendar, spring starts in mid-March, it often seems to take forever until the first warmer days arrive. If you do not want to wait any longer, simply sail away from your daily chores and enjoy a long weekend at sea. On board our windjammer it is easy to unwind and take in the fresh breeze and sunshine.
Portofino, deluxe fishing village
Here, you’d hardly be surprised if Sophia Loren and Grace Kelly strolled past. With its quaint lanes and brilliant houses that compete in shades of dusky pink, rusty red and ochre yellow, Portofino has been drawing the international jetset since the nineteen-fifties. The Piazzetta by the harbour offers the best views of white yachts, colourful fishing boats and elegant boutiques.
Menton, sweet town of lemons
Where Nice and Cannes show off, Menton impresses with elegant restraint. The sweet little town on the Eastern Côte d’Azur is a lot less touristy than its flashy neighbours, enchanting visitors with Italian flair and pastel coloured facades in its old town. As the legendary town of lemons, Menton is living proof of how wonderfully sour “la dolce vita” can be.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
19.05.2019
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Nice/France
Nice lies in one of the world's most lavishly endowed natural landscapes. The sea glows azure and the mountains in the background rise picturesquely up into the sky. Castle Hill gives you a fantastic view over the rambling old town - a labyrinth of alleyways with Baroque churches, pastel-coloured houses and red-tiled roofs. The Promenade des Anglais, a sophisticated, five-kilometre-(3 miles)long walkway along the magnificent Baie des Anges and its long beach, lies at the heart of the elegant new town, with its splendid palaces and aristocratic hotels in the Belle-Époque and Art Deco styles.
Sanary-sur-Mer/France
For a time, the small idyllic port of Sanary was a charming and peaceful refuge for many artists. The list of famous names is long: Bertolt Brecht strummed his guitar in one of the harbour cafés and sang satirical songs; Stefan Zweig, the Mann family of writers and Jacques Cousteau all found what they were looking for here - to put some distance between themselves and the horror of the war. Aix-en-Provence, the birthplace of Paul Cézanne, seems to have been created with the aim of dedicating itself to the fine things in life. This lively university town, the historic capital of Provence, has always promoted the enjoyment of life through art.
At sea
Tarragona/Spain
Valencia/Spain
On one corner its centuries old and around the next totally modern - Valencia is everything all at once. Today the beautiful old town and the old silk market "La Lonja de la Seda", which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, still bear witness to the city's wealth in the Middle Ages. A brand new part of the city is situated in a drained river bed and has avant-garde buildings including a futuristic opera house, the largest aquarium in Europe, a botanical garden and a public park. Valencia is one of the few cities that has a heritage of over 2,000 years and is also so intriguingly combined with the future. And no other city in Europe can proudly make the claim that the America's Cup has already taken place twice right on its front door.
Alicante/Spain
At sea
Málaga/Spain
Disembarkation.
Málaga has spruced itself up. In 2003, the Museo Picasso opened in a 16th century Renaissance palace and is dedicated to the artist's extensive life's work. This historic old city invites you to take a stroll and its buildings gleam like new. And above everything towers the Alcazaba, a mighty walled fortress. The port was completely redesigned when the city was opened to the sea and you can now take a lovely stroll along the promenade. In Málaga's hinterland you can see the most beautiful aspects of traditional Andalusia. From a distance the typical Andalusian villages look like white dabs of paint shining out from the brown of the barren mountain landscape.
Overview
French Flair & Spanish Temperament: Nice – Málaga
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
An entertaining journey through ancient, baroque and modern times, offering French flair and Spanish temperament: Nice – Málaga
Provençal living in Aix
Its successful blend of baroque elegance and a lively student scene is one of the reasons why Aix-en-Provence ranks amongst France’s top five of the most popular places to live. Stroll under the old plane trees of the famous Cours Mirabeau for a taste of this Provençal capital’s history; its main boulevard is lined with small bistros and antique shops, elegant residences, fountains and boutiques.
Tarragona: a smaller Rome in Spain
As a busy provincial town, antique Tarragona was like little Rome in Iberia. Triumphal arches, aqueducts, the amphitheatre and the Forum Romanum are witnesses of its glorious past. And if you feel like toasting so much history, there is no shortage of wine: For over 2,000 years, this area has been a popular wine growing region.
A fascinating mix in Valencia
Many bygone eras have left their mark on Valencia, but this historical legacy is juxtaposed with an impressive mixture of magnificent modern buildings. It is this vast spectrum that gives the city its unique appeal. The offbeat design of the opera house appears futuristic, with the building situated in an expansive museum and park district that stretches from the city centre all the way to the coast.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
21.06.2019
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London (Portsmouth)/Great Britain
This coastal strip in southern Hampshire, blessed by the Gulf Stream, has always been an easily defensible natural harbour. Indeed Henry VII made it his Royal Dockyard at the end of the 15th century. Still an important Royal Navy base, the vast port of Portsmouth is situated on the peaceful west coast of Portsea Island, a spit of land that stretches far out to sea. In the old harbour, historic ships with grandiose names proclaim the city's glorious past and several museums are devoted to the navy and seafaring. Where once adventurers and admirals set sail to re-write the English history books, countless yachts now rock gently in numerous marinas. The lavishly renovated quayside with its looming, futuristic Spinnaker Tower and the long seafront at Southsea are now the beating heart of modern life in the city.
Honfleur/France
Many famous impressionists caught the quaint atmosphere of this town at the mouth of the Seine on canvas in the 19th century. This small town in Calvados is still one of the most charming places in Normandy. Tall and narrow slate-clad buildings crowd around the quayside, the exquisite Vieux Bassin and the old 17th century dock. Honfleur honours its famous sons, painter Eugène Boudin and composer Eric Satie, in a museum. East of Honfleur, the breathtaking Pont de Normandie spans the Seine estuary and links Honfleur with Le Havre, an engineering masterpiece and one of the longest bridges in Europe.
Dartmouth/Great Britain
The old harbour town of Dartmouth in the southern English county of Devon is set in forested hills on the west bank of the Channel estuary. Since the 15th century, Dartmouth Castle and Kingswear Castle, which faces it, have guarded the entry to the town. Little has changed since 1539 in the cobbled Bayard's Cove with its small fort on the old harbour. Sailing boats and yachts now roll gently where great ships once set sail for new shores. Charming old houses line the narrow streets leading from the promenade up the steep slope with its numerous steps. Located in a dominant position above the town, the Britannia Royal Naval College bears testament to the historic significance of seafaring and the navy.
St. Peter Port/Guernsey
'A piece of France fallen into the sea and grabbed up by the English' is how Victor Hugo described his place of exile in the Bay of St. Malo, which is closer to the northern coast of France than the south coast of England. Guernsey, the second largest British Channel Island, later inspired Auguste Renoir to produce a whole series of paintings. Narrow, meandering roads bordered by hedges and embankments wind through the interior of the island, which boasts luscious vegetation courtesy of the mild Gulf Stream climate, while in the south, green hills give way to rocky cliffs on the sea's edge. Here, spectacular crags, bays and sandy beaches have been shaped by the vast tidal range pummelling the rock. The pretty island capital of St. Peter Port overlooking the large sheltered harbour and castle boasts a fascinating mixture of styles in a tangle of terraces and stepped gardens.
Saint-Malo/France
This former 'corsaire' town in northern Brittany has always had a close relationship with the sea. Although the buccaneers have left, St. Malo is now the start or end point for many famous sailing regattas. Behind the legendary town defences lies the historic centre, which is surrounded by water on three sides and has always been impregnable. On one side of the town walls you will see the narrow alleyways and tall houses of the old town which bear testament to the prosperity of past traders and sailors. The other side offers exquisite views of the emerald sea, dazzling white sandy beaches, harbour and forts. Tidal variations in the Bay of Saint-Malo provide an impressive natural spectacle with twelve metres difference between high and low tides.
Roscoff/France
Tresco/Scilly Islands
Off the south west coast of Cornwall, some 150 small islands and islets emerge from the sea. The privately-owned Tresco is the second largest of the five inhabited British Scilly Isles and has a reputation as an 'island in bloom' thanks to the mild Gulf Stream climate. The subtropical Tresco Abbey Gardens, set up in the 19th century by Augustus Smith on the lands of an old Benedictine Abbey, are home to exotic plants from many regions of the world. This small Garden of Eden is set in a natural paradise with subterranean caverns, sheer granite cliffs, idyllic white sandy beaches, emerald water and spectacular violet-red sunsets.
Cobh (Cork)/Ireland
The small, typically Irish town of Cobh, dominated by the sea and its harbour, is situated on an island in the wide Cork Harbour, one of the world's largest natural harbours. Several ferry routes and a bridge connect it to the mainland. Overlooked by the neo-Gothic St. Colman Cathedral with its impressive bells, a picturesque mass of colourful houses cram the steep slope leading up from the harbour. The Cobh Heritage Centre commemorates the period of 1849 to 1920 when the town, known back then as Queenstown, was the main port for Irish emigrants. The city of Cork is about nine miles from Cobh in County Cork in south western Ireland, an area dominated by the Gulf Stream. It is nestled among the hills of the valley formed by the River Lee in a prominent position on a river island. Cork is the second largest city in Ireland, a regional economic capital and was European Capital of Culture in 2005.
Dublin/Ireland
Disembarkation.
In the wake of the Celtic Tiger boom and financial crisis, Dublin, the Irish capital in the east of the Emerald Isle continues to be young, dynamic and European. It adeptly combines tradition and innovation in a small space. O'Connell Street in the Northside of Dublin shimmers with the lofty steel Millennium Spire and a brand new district has sprung up in the docklands with futuristic glass buildings and a Calatrava bridge. The old Half Penny Bridge takes you right into the heart of the city. Here you will find the lively, cobbled Temple Bar district with its numerous Guinness pubs, Dublin Castle, which is over 800 years old, and the soaring spires of St. Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedrals. Behind the neo-classical façade of the historic Trinity College, founded in 1592, is a magnificent library and the 1,200 year-old Book of Kells.
Overview
Normandy, Brittany, the Channel Islands & England’s South
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
Where the mild Atlantic greets – summer cruise to Normandy, Brittany, the Channel Islands and England’s South: London (Portsmouth) – Dublin
Honfleur, paradise for painters
With its colourful fishing boats and soaring timbered houses, Honfleur offers visitors a truly picturesque setting. The enchanting little port is considered the cradle of impressionism – Eugène Boudin, Monet, Renoir and Cézanne met here to paint. In addition to enjoying the abounding art, don’t miss out on Normandy’s culinary masterpieces: cider, calvados and camembert.
The most British town of Brittany: Roscoff
On the outermost northwestern end of Brittany, Roscoff is leaning into the Atlantic as though it wanted to reach across the British Channel for Cornwall. The charming seaside town with its pretty granite houses is considered the most British among the Breton ports. Not surprising, because for hundreds of years, the old corsair town was trading with Great Britain exporting salt, wood, cloth and onions.
Tresco – a British island
with a Mediterranean heart It is hardly surprising that Tresco, the second largest of the Scilly Islands, has been populated since the Neolithic period. Thanks to its mild climate, the island is as lush and green as most Mediterranean coastlines. Abbey Garden is a veritable paradise, bursting with exotic flowers, bamboo thickets, palm and pine trees. It is one of the world’s most spectacular botanical gardens.
Please Note: more sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
29.06.2019
<read more>
Dublin/Ireland
In the wake of the Celtic Tiger boom and financial crisis, Dublin, the Irish capital in the east of the Emerald Isle continues to be young, dynamic and European. It adeptly combines tradition and innovation in a small space. O'Connell Street in the Northside of Dublin shimmers with the lofty steel Millennium Spire and a brand new district has sprung up in the docklands with futuristic glass buildings and a Calatrava bridge. The old Half Penny Bridge takes you right into the heart of the city. Here you will find the lively, cobbled Temple Bar district with its numerous Guinness pubs, Dublin Castle, which is over 800 years old, and the soaring spires of St. Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedrals. Behind the neo-classical façade of the historic Trinity College, founded in 1592, is a magnificent library and the 1,200 year-old Book of Kells.
Douglas/Isle of Man
At sea
Tobermory/Isle of Mull
Stornoway/Isle of Lewis
Kirkwall/Orkney Islands
Invergordon/Great Britain
Peterhead/Great Britain
Edinburgh (Leith)/Great Britain
Disembarkation.
Three vantage points offer fantastic views of this beautiful capital on the southern bank of the Firth of Forth. The historic castle is impossible to miss atop Castle Rock high above the narrow and sometimes very steep medieval streets. The Royal Mile, a mile-long parade of Victorian buildings in the old town, connects the two royal residences of Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. The imposing outline of Arthur's Seat, a mountain which would look more at home in the Highlands, looms over Holyrood Park. The New Town, a masterpiece of Georgian urban architecture with a grid-like street pattern, stretches toward the harbour from Prince's Street, at the eastern end of which you will find a small Greek temple looming atop Carlton Hill. The Old Town and New Town, both UNESCO world heritage sites, are divided by Princes Street Gardens, the green lungs of the city and venue for the loudest music and festival events.
Overview
Myths, Magic & the Nature of the Celtic Islands
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
Myths, magic and the wild nature of the Celtic islands – en route to Ireland, the Hebrides and Scotland: Dublin – Edinburgh (Leith)
Dublin – the Green Isle’s capital
Live music, witty words and mellow Guiness – Dublin enfolds its visitors with its happy charm. Ireland’s literature-focused capital is not only home to time-honoured sites like Trinity College, Dublin Castle or St Patrick’s Cathedral: Small shops, quirky pubs and inspiring galleries demonstrate Dublin’s modern, metropolitan character.
Islands with a special kind of magic: the Hebrides
Some 50 kilometres (31 miles) west of the Scottish coast lie the Inner and the Outer Hebrides. Here, where salt and seaweed scents the air and granite rocks dot the green meadows, the cordial inhabitants enjoy a peaty whiskey – toasting their arcane homeland as well as the much longed-for summer sun that lights up the coloured facades in the ports of Tobermory and Stornoway.
Mysterious ancient sites: Skara Brae and Brodgar
Scotland’s wild North is home to the mysterious ruins of Neolithic settlements. Skara Brae comprises eight round houses dating back 4,500 years, and the Ring of Brodgar is even larger than Stonehenge. Between the weathered stones and grassy mounds, you are sure to feel a touch of mythical magic.
Please Note: more sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
13.08.2019
<read more>
Edinburgh (Leith)/Great Britain
Three vantage points offer fantastic views of this beautiful capital on the southern bank of the Firth of Forth. The historic castle is impossible to miss atop Castle Rock high above the narrow and sometimes very steep medieval streets. The Royal Mile, a mile-long parade of Victorian buildings in the old town, connects the two royal residences of Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. The imposing outline of Arthur's Seat, a mountain which would look more at home in the Highlands, looms over Holyrood Park. The New Town, a masterpiece of Georgian urban architecture with a grid-like street pattern, stretches toward the harbour from Prince's Street, at the eastern end of which you will find a small Greek temple looming atop Carlton Hill. The Old Town and New Town, both UNESCO world heritage sites, are divided by Princes Street Gardens, the green lungs of the city and venue for the loudest music and festival events.
Peterhead/Great Britain
Kirkwall/Orkney Islands
Lerwick/Shetland Islands
At sea
Bergen/Norway
Stavanger/Norway
The port of Stavanger spans an area of mainland and several islands in a spectacular location between the skerries to the south and the fjord landscape to the west. The picturesque old town, with a cathedral dating back to around 1125 when Stavanger was founded, and the brilliant white 18th and 19th century wooden houses are overlooked by the glass and metal façades of international oil companies. Initially, Stavanger was an important fishing and seafaring centre. Subsequently, it became the world's biggest producer of tinned sardines before the extraction of black gold from the North Sea made it a rich oil centre and Norway's fourth largest city. Stavenger reinvented itself again as European Capital of Culture in 2008. Nearby are the 612-metre high Månafossen waterfall, the longest sandy beach in Norway known as the Sola beach and the Lysefjord with the imposing Preikestolen cliff.
At sea
Sylt/Germany
North Sea breakers, mud flats, Red Cliff, vast landscape of dunes, wide sandy beaches and old mariners' houses show the romantic and natural side of Germany's most famous island. Its other side sometimes makes headlines, as Sylt has been the summer retreat for celebrities since the 1960s. They can be seen visiting the most famous fish stand in Germany, strolling through Kampen or in the elegant bars and exclusive clubs.
Sylt/Germany
Hamburg/Germany
Disembarkation.
Hamburg has seen many ships in its time. Richly laden Hanseatic cogs, famous 19th century windjammers and giant vessels have dropped anchor in its port. The beautiful banks of the Elbe form prominent cordons for ships sailing in or out of the port of Hamburg. Moving towards the mouth of the Elbe, they glide by the patrician villas on the Elbchaussee, the Treppenviertel in Blankenese, the Airbus site and the picturesque banks of the Elbe with their green dykes and white beaches. You can catch charming harbour views of the little villages all along the banks of the Elbe.
Overview
Vikings, Castles & Fascinating Fjords
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
Three cheers for the North: a summer getaway to Scotland’s green coasts and charming North Sea idylls: Edinburgh (Leith) – Hamburg
Edinburgh – capital of tradition
From the narrow cobbled streets of the medieval Old Town to the generous airy layout of the Gregorian New Town, in Edinburgh you literally walk through the ages. Take bagpipe traditions, spooky stories or pub
culture – ancient customs are kept alive in Scotland’s capital.
The many facets of the North
Rock faces that plunge into the sea, picturesque coastal villages, romantic castles – on the journey from Scotland over Norway to Hamburg, every day features a new landscape to discover. The North is surprisingly diverse and you will be just as enchanted by the raw charm of the Shetland and Orkney Islands as by the modern thrill of the cultural hub, Bergen.
Mysterious ancient sites: Skara Brae and Brodgar
Scotland’s wild North is home to the mysterious ruins of Neolithic settlements. Skara Brae comprises eight round houses dating back 4,500 years, and the Ring of Brodgar is even larger than Stonehenge. Between the weathered stones and grassy mounds, you are sure to feel a touch of mythical magic.
The impressive Norwegian fjords
Over several ice ages, the incredible force of Mother Nature carved narrow valleys in the rocks of southern Norway, leading to the formation of spectacular landscapes: the majestic fjords. Each and every one of them is definitely worth seeing: The Lysefjord boasts the impressive Preikestolen plateau, towering at an altitude of over 600 metres (1,970 feet), and the Hardangerfjord is adorned by a wide range of fruit trees thanks to its mild climate.
Sylt: Germany’s most famed island
North Sea waves, the Wadden Sea, old captains’ cottages, and exploring the wide dune landscape – that is the romantic, down-to-earth side of the renowned North Frisian island. But Sylt enjoys the flurry of camera flashes just as much as the sunshine. Celebrities have chosen the island as their summer retreat: One wants to be seen visiting Germany’s most famous fish & chip shop, strolling through Kampen, in the elegant bars and exclusive clubs – and indulges in oysters fresh from the sea.
Panoramic cruise up the Elbe
The Sea Cloud ii glides slowly up the river Elbe, past the picturesque banks with their green dykes, the Airbus grounds, stair-lined Blankenese and the patrician mansions of the Elbchaussee. At her mooring by the “Überseebrücke”, she is greeted by Hamburg’s new landmark, the “Elbphilharmonie”.
Please Note: more sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
24.08.2019
<read more>
Hamburg/Germany
Hamburg has seen many ships in its time. Richly laden Hanseatic cogs, famous 19th century windjammers and giant vessels have dropped anchor in its port. The beautiful banks of the Elbe form prominent cordons for ships sailing in or out of the port of Hamburg. Moving towards the mouth of the Elbe, they glide by the patrician villas on the Elbchaussee, the Treppenviertel in Blankenese, the Airbus site and the picturesque banks of the Elbe with their green dykes and white beaches. You can catch charming harbour views of the little villages all along the banks of the Elbe.
At sea
Amsterdam/Netherlands
Amsterdam is small and unhurried, cosmopolitan and avant-garde, a multi-cultural lively city and a royal capital. The countless canals and bridges, and the charming cityscape with all its beautiful gabled houses nestling beside the secluded canals, shape the character of the inner city. Amsterdam is considered the cultural centre of the Netherlands. The Reichsmuseum, with its famous Night Watchman by Rembrandt and other masterpieces from the Golden Age is the largest of the innumerable museums, the Van Gogh Museum is the most colourful, and the Hermitage Amsterdam, with its high-profile opening back in summer 2009, is the newest.
Oostende/Belgium
King Leopold II built the white palace and the long, wonderfully shady galleries on the beach. Like the casino and kursaal, they hark back to the Belle Époque when Ostend was the favourite summer resort of the aristocracy on the Flemish North Sea coast and was one of the most chic seaside towns in Europe. Although both world wars took their toll on the king's 'queen of seaside resorts', people still come in droves to stroll along the wide beach with its creamy sand and the long promenade. The lively old Hanseatic city of Bruges is captivating and its medieval atmosphere will enchant you. A rich historical heritage has been preserved inside its vast ramparts and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Honfleur/France
Many famous impressionists caught the quaint atmosphere of this town at the mouth of the Seine on canvas in the 19th century. This small town in Calvados is still one of the most charming places in Normandy. Tall and narrow slate-clad buildings crowd around the quayside, the exquisite Vieux Bassin and the old 17th century dock. Honfleur honours its famous sons, painter Eugène Boudin and composer Eric Satie, in a museum. East of Honfleur, the breathtaking Pont de Normandie spans the Seine estuary and links Honfleur with Le Havre, an engineering masterpiece and one of the longest bridges in Europe.
St Peter Port/Guernsey
'A piece of France fallen into the sea and grabbed up by the English' is how Victor Hugo described his place of exile in the Bay of St. Malo, which is closer to the northern coast of France than the south coast of England. Guernsey, the second largest British Channel Island, later inspired Auguste Renoir to produce a whole series of paintings. Narrow, meandering roads bordered by hedges and embankments wind through the interior of the island, which boasts luscious vegetation courtesy of the mild Gulf Stream climate, while in the south, green hills give way to rocky cliffs on the sea's edge. Here, spectacular crags, bays and sandy beaches have been shaped by the vast tidal range pummelling the rock. The pretty island capital of St. Peter Port overlooking the large sheltered harbour and castle boasts a fascinating mixture of styles in a tangle of terraces and stepped gardens.
Saint-Malo/France
This former 'corsaire' town in northern Brittany has always had a close relationship with the sea. Although the buccaneers have left, St. Malo is now the start or end point for many famous sailing regattas. Behind the legendary town defences lies the historic centre, which is surrounded by water on three sides and has always been impregnable. On one side of the town walls you will see the narrow alleyways and tall houses of the old town which bear testament to the prosperity of past traders and sailors. The other side offers exquisite views of the emerald sea, dazzling white sandy beaches, harbour and forts. Tidal variations in the Bay of Saint-Malo provide an impressive natural spectacle with twelve metres difference between high and low tides.
At sea
Le Palais/Belle-Île-en-Mer
At 54 square miles, Belle-Île-en-Mer, south of Lorient is the largest of Brittany's islands. For a few weeks every summer, the storms and crashing waves subside and the island takes on a laid-back holiday atmosphere, with lots of bicycles, beach towels and music. On the west coast, the waves break on the rocks causing white crests to dance on the water. Small, idyllic bays and beaches nestle in deep inlets in the rocky coastline, sometimes only accessible from the sea. The island's capital is the port of Le Palais with its imposing citadel and countless street cafés along the harbour and in the Place de la République. Claude Monet spent two and a half months on the island, producing 39 paintings of the wild Côte Sauvage.
La Rochelle/France
The Vieux Port dock and the beautiful front, which teems with cafés, form the centre of the picturesque old town. Two imposing towers once served as lookout posts for the harbour and town, and are now the symbol of La Rochelle. The medieval town walls, town hall, churches and shipowners' offices bear testament to its former glory. Today, the Les Minimes marina is one of the largest examples of its kind in Europe. A bridge spans the 3km gap between the mainland and the Ile-de-Ré. With its enchanting beaches and dunes, little villages, cottages with green shutters and alleyways lined with hollyhocks, the 'White Isle' is a paradise for cyclists.
San Sebastián/Spain
Bilbao/Spain
Disembarkation.
Bilbao has always been an important port and industrial city. In 1993, Bilbao was a pilgrimage destination for lovers of modern art and avant-garde architecture. The Guggenheim Museum, with its idiosyncratic and unique design by famous architect Frank O Gehry, showcases everything that is important within its 11,000 square metres 118,403 foot). Steel used to be manufactured in Bilbao and it now plays a major role here, since other renowned architects have also been inspired to give Bilbao an attractive, distinctive look. Cross the futuristic Calatrava Bridge to reach the old town, where you can take a delightful stroll round the lanes and enjoy the art of Basque cuisine.
Overview
The Channel Islands, Normandy, Brittany & the Basque Country
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
Enchanting summer days on the Atlantic coast – canal towns, cultural metropolises and charming island beauties: Hamburg – Bilbao
A panoramic trip along the Elbe
The Sea Cloud ii departs from Hamburg’s harbour and glides along the Elbe at a leisurely pace. Past the patrician mansions of the Elbchaussee, stair-lined Blankenese, the Airbus grounds and the picturesque river banks with their green dykes.
Kaleidoscopic Amsterdam
Amsterdam is small and homely, cosmopolitan and avant-garde, an international metropolis and a royal capital. Depending on your approach, this city will show you each of its many faces in a constantly changing light. Discover the charm of its canals and be inspired by its
internationally renowned designs.
Bruges: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Be it English cloth merchants, Hamburg’s moneybags or traders from Castile, trade has been at the heart of this Hanseatic city for centuries. Even today there are still great shopping opportunities in the charming medieval old town of Bruges. As you stroll past ramparts, windmills and romantic canals, you will discover all sorts of artistic and culinary delights in the small boutique shops.
Honfleur, paradise for painters
With its colourful fishing boats and soaring timbered houses, Honfleur offers visitors a truly picturesque setting. The enchanting little port is considered the cradle of impressionism – Eugène Boudin, Monet, Renoir and Cézanne met here to paint. In addition to enjoying the abounding art, don’t miss out on Normandy’s culinary masterpieces: cider, calvados and camembert.
Saint-Malo and the Mont St Michel
Strong fortified walls and heavy canons still bear witness to what life was like in Saint-Malo in the 18th century. From here, the corsairs started their raids, adding considerably to the wealth of the town. At the other end of the bay, the Mont St Michel also presents itself well-fortified: Like a mighty bastion, the monastery fortress rises from the tidal flats.
A jewel in the Atlantic: Belle-Île-en-Mer
It is easy to imagine that this island was the birthplace of summer; as soon as the sun rises over this Breton isle, the cafés and squares are instantly filled with the friendly chatter of locals, accordion players and women selling their wares at the market. With its serene atmosphere, the port of Le Palais is the perfect place to be discovered individually.
Capital of Culture and culinary delights: San Sebastián
San Sebastián cannot be described in a single word: Donostia, so its Basque name, is a seaside resort, film city, surfer’s paradise, cultural metropolis and above all a Mecca for gourmets. The lively old town is a paradise for the palate: Countless small and cosy bars proudly present the city’s culinary diversity.
Please Note: more sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
31.08.2019
<read more>
Bilbao/Spain
Bilbao has always been an important port and industrial city. In 1993, Bilbao was a pilgrimage destination for lovers of modern art and avant-garde architecture. The Guggenheim Museum, with its idiosyncratic and unique design by famous architect Frank O Gehry, showcases everything that is important within its 11,000 square metres 118,403 foot). Steel used to be manufactured in Bilbao and it now plays a major role here, since other renowned architects have also been inspired to give Bilbao an attractive, distinctive look. Cross the futuristic Calatrava Bridge to reach the old town, where you can take a delightful stroll round the lanes and enjoy the art of Basque cuisine.
Santander/Spain
At sea
La Coruña/Spain
The old city of La Coruña is set picturesquely on a peninsula and its landmark is the Tower of Hercules, over 2,000 years old, set on the headland in front of the city. Culture, history and art come face to face with traditional Galician lifestyle. Santiago de Compostela, one of the world's most famous pilgrimage sites, is the goal and climax of the Camino de Santiago, a path that has existed since the 11th century. The beautiful cathedral, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Christendom next to Rome and Jerusalem, also dates back to this time. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the old city. A special ritual takes place here - the Botafumeiro, where a huge thurible is swung through the magnificent transept.
Islas Cíes/Spain
On the seventh day, when God had created the world, he took a rest from his work on Galicia's Cíes Islands. And you can well understand why. Today the Galician National Park encompasses large parts of the sea and three uninhabited islands which form the archipelago of the Cíes Islands. Walking along beautiful footpaths along impressive cliffs, through dune landscapes and small forests, you can discover the rich array of flora and fauna. Its beautiful beaches are still almost a secret - the Playa de Rodas was even selected by a British newspaper as the world's most beautiful beach.
Porto (Leixões)/Portugal
Porto considers itself the country's secret capital. The narrow lanes of the historic old town "Ribeira", a UNESCO World Heritage Site, extend in terraces up the slope overlooking the Douro. The former working class district has blossomed into a beautifully restored trendy neighbourhood. A student of Gustave Eiffel created the bold design for the bridge, which stretches over the river in a wide arc and links the Ribeira with Vila Nova da Geia and its 50 port wineries that lie on the other side. The best way to reach the incredible Douro Valley and the countryside of the Alto Douro wine region, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is by river.
Lisbon/Portugal
The most beautiful approach to the Portuguese capital is to travel up the River Tagus. One of the city's most famous landmarks has been greeting visitors right on the estuary since 1521 - the Torre de Belém. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and transports you back to the glory days when Portugal was a naval power. There are many landmarks, such as the facades of the houses decorated with azulejos tilework and the ancient trams that rattle through the city. But Lisbon has many different sides. Joie de vivre comes face to face with the melancholy of Fado music, winding lanes in the old city meet wide boulevards, while magnificent churches and austere monasteries show the two sides of former religious faith.
Lisbon/Portugal
Disembarkation.
Overview
Along the Sunny Coasts of Galicia & Portugal
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
A course of discovery along the sunny coasts of Galicia and Portugal to places of pilgrimage and nature’s paradises: Bilbao – Lisbon
The culinary delights of Northern Spain
Fresh fish, delicious seafood, tasty beef and exquisite cheeses – in the four northern provinces Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturia and Galicia, the sea and the mountains offer everything that makes a gourmet’s heart beat faster. In addition to the region’s fantastic cuisine, connoisseurs also enthuse about the flavourful, top-class wines from Rioja and Ribera del Duero.
Medieval gem: Santillana del Mar
Wooden balconies adorned with flowers, gardens hidden behind thick walls, and small Renaissance palaces – there is something to be discovered on every corner of Santillana del Mar’s old town. You should definitely allow time for these two highlights: the Santa Juliana collegiate church that gave the pilgrimage town its name, and the Cave of Altamira with its famous parietal cave paintings.
Santiago de Compostela – a place of pilgrimage
Santiago de Compostela, one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage sites, is the final stop and climax of the Way of St James – a pilgrimage route that has been followed since the 11th century. During this time, the city’s magnificent cathedral was also established as one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Christianity, alongside Rome and Jerusalem. This building, together with the old town, is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The Islas Cíes Nature Reserve
According to Galician legend, the Cíes archipelago is the place where God rested on the seventh day after he created the world – and it is easy to see why. The site, now a nature reserve, encompasses a substantial area of sea and three islands which, with their steep coasts, sand dunes and small forests, are perfect for individual hikes.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
13.09.2019
<read more>
Barcelona/Spain
Barcelona revels in contrasts. Many enthuse over the beautiful elegant squares and boulevards, while others look for medieval romance in the Gothic quarter. Some love the artistic treasures in the Picasso Museum or the Joan Miró Foundation, but for most people Barcelona is the capital of Catalan Art Nouveau and its glory is epitomised in the spectacular Palau de la Música. At every turn you encounter the playfully opulent creations of architect Antonio Gaudi. His exuberant fantasies are evident in the numerous houses, idiosyncratic parks and the famous uncompleted Sagrada Familia cathedral which he created.
At sea
Calvi/Corsica
Calvi has something enjoyable to suit every taste. Romantics can take a walk through the old town and the view from the fortified walls is not to be missed. A stroll through the town's streets brings you to the colourful, lively lower town with its bars and exclusive cafés. Anyone who enjoys a walk on the sand will love the town's long beach. To the east, sheltered by the highest mountains in Corsica, a lush green wild garden has grown around Calvi, filled with olive groves and orange trees. In the La Balagne region in the interior, you can discover hidden picturesque villages which show you the traditional side of Corsica and, displaying the idiosyncratic pride on the island, there is scarcely a road sign that is not written in the Corsican language.
St Tropez/France
In the 19th century, artists discovered this picturesque fishing village on the Côte d'Azur and made it their source of inspiration. They were followed by the aristocracy and moneyed classes, and around fifty years ago St Tropez gained its international reputation as a refuge for the rich and famous. You can still find them today, in elegant Port Grimaud with its luxurious yachts from all over the world; in the upmarket bars and restaurants that line the promenade; on the elegant boulevards; in high class shops; or at the sophisticated beach clubs. Even with all these distinguished guests, St Tropez has still managed to preserve its picturesque and sleepy atmosphere.
Nice/France
Disembarkation.
Nice lies in one of the world's most lavishly endowed natural landscapes. The sea glows azure and the mountains in the background rise picturesquely up into the sky. Castle Hill gives you a fantastic view over the rambling old town - a labyrinth of alleyways with Baroque churches, pastel-coloured houses and red-tiled roofs. The Promenade des Anglais, a sophisticated, five-kilometre-(3 miles)long walkway along the magnificent Baie des Anges and its long beach, lies at the heart of the elegant new town, with its splendid palaces and aristocratic hotels in the Belle-Époque and Art Deco styles.
Overview
Corsica & the Côte d’Azur
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
An atmospheric short cruise to Corsica and the Côte d’Azur: Barcelona – Nice
A little break from your daily routine
It is amazing how quickly a sailing cruise can remove you from the everyday hustle and bustle of life! Once the wind swells the sails and the Sea Cloud II sets off into the distant horizon, you step into a whole new, unique world. No matter whether you are keen to enjoy the authentic windjammer atmosphere on board or discover the charming cities onshore, hundreds of new impressions will turn your little break into a wonderful experience.
Calvi: the charming capital of La Balagne
Calvi, Corsica’s fourth largest town, lies nestled in the lush, green hills of La Balagne. The settlement is overlooked by an impressive citadel and drawbridge which stand proud upon a soaring promontory. Admire the shimmering beauty of the yachts moored in the harbour during a gentle stroll along the Quay Landry or make a brief stop in one of the town’s many street cafés and restaurants.
Savoir-vivre on the French Riviera
The French Riviera is characterised by its outdoor life. The bright blue sky provides the perfect setting for a chat in the street or a glass of pastis by the harbour. This carefree savoir-vivre is not just a privilege of the high society who made the Côte d’Azur their playground in the nineteen-sixties. Optimism is quite the custom here – and the relaxed attitude is infectious.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
04.10.2019
<read more>
La Valletta/Malta
This strategically important location has always attracted foreign conquerors. More than 7,000 years ago, a civilisation existed here, leaving behind enormous temple complexes. Just like proud Valletta, these are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jean Parisot de la Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St John, founded a modern fortified city on a rock in 1566, between the two splendid natural ports of Marsamxett and Grand Harbour. Long rows of facades made from golden-yellow blocks of chalk stretch along the straight streets. Splendid Renaissance and Baroque buildings are evidence of riches and power, such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the impressive St John's Co-Cathedral.
At sea
Trapani/Sicily
The old town and port of Trapani lies on a picturesque crescent-shaped headland at the foot of Monte Erice. You will discover many little treasures browsing through the beautiful town centre. For the last 1,000 years, fine black and red coral jewellery has been made here. The mountain town of Erice is a real architectural gem. Not far from Tapani, this idyllic little town is tucked away in a picturesque hilltop setting overlooking the countryside and the sea. Protected defiantly by a wall, the town retains its splendid medieval atmosphere.
Palermo/Sicily
The character of Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, was mainly forged by the Arabs, Swabian dynasty and Normans. Noble palaces line the magnificent streets, cheerful-looking Art Nouveau houses stand next to Baroque buildings and a little further on you are faced with pure Gothic facades. The medieval quarter towers above the huge Palazzo Reale with its "Capella Palatina", a masterpiece in the Arab-Byzantine-Norman style. The small mountain town of Monreale gives you a breathtaking view over the town and the bay, as well as the 12th century cathedral whose interior combines Romanesque, Byzantine and Arab art with rich gold mosaics.
Lipari/Aeolian Islands
Lipari is a tranquil little spot and the largest of the Aeolian Islands, with a cultural heritage stretching back over 6,000 years. Right from first glance you can see its volcanic heritage, with some of the rock formations resembling sculptures, and the entire group of islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Aeolian Museum is set on the castle hill and holds an impressive collection of prehistoric and ancient artefacts from this volcanic group of islands. You will find the southern Italian way of life in this little port infectious.
Naxos (Taormina)/Sicily
Taormina is perched on a rock with a majestic view over the sea. In the 19th century, this small town had already developed into a dream destination for well-heeled travellers and artists. The town's fascination lies in its elegance, the many ancient buildings, the stunningly beautiful coastline, the mild climate, and the view over the silhouette of Etna. Europe's largest volcano is over 3,000 metres (9,843 foot) high, has four summit craters and around 400 subsidiary craters, and is covered with snow almost all year round. In ancient times it was considered the seat of the gods, but nowadays large sections of it are a nature reserve.
Syracuse/Sicily
The municipal area of Syracuse boasts relics from cultural history going back more than three millennia. In ancient times, the city was the most powerful in the known world and was famed for its splendour. The island of Ortigia, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was where Syracuse began its rise as an ancient city. The huge cathedral is at the heart of the old town, magnificent palaces line the Piazza and wide promenades invite you to take a stroll. The archaeological park brings Greek and Roman history back to life. Yet Syracuse exudes southern Italian charm, with washing drying outside the windows.
La Valletta/Malta
Disembarkation.
Overview
The Most Beautiful Sights of Sicily
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
The most beautiful sights of Sicily: royal palaces, ancient temples and heavenly panoramas: Malta – Malta
Sicily’s many facets
The largest of the Mediterranean islands is a fabulously diverse microcosm in its own right – with rich cultural history dating back 3,000 years, with different monuments marking each era, with Europe’s highest and most active volcano, Mount Etna, and with towns and villages featuring a character and flair all of their own.
A masterwork of mosaics: the Cappella Palatina
The narrow streets of Palermo’s historic centre with their rattling Vespa scooters and vivacious market women lead to the impressive Norman palace. Inside you will find the famous Cappella Palatina. Its richness is simply overwhelming: The erstwhile royal chapel is decorated with elements of both Christian and Islamic style, artistic carvings and marble floors. It contains an inner room which is entirely covered with precious golden mosaics.
Syracuse: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cicero once described Syracuse as “the greatest and most beautiful of the Greek cities”. Up to a million people – three times the population of mighty Athens – are claimed to have lived there in antiquity. This city on the small island of Ortigia was later conquered first by the Romans, then by Arabs, Byzantines and Normans. They have left behind a unique architectural heritage: The UNESCO declared Syracuse a World Heritage Site in 2005 due to its archaeological importance.
A lecturer accompanies the trip
Exciting topics, background information and fascinating facts – our expert offers talks on a whole range of subjects from his specialist field.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 meters
Passenger Capacity: 94
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 2,750 m² of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight.
Built to accommodate 94 passengers in five-star luxury, she offers a range of 47 beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambiance in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness center, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.
10.10.2019
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Dubrovnik/Croatia
When Venice still ruled the Adriatic, Dubrovnik was an important maritime republic and the floating city's chief rival. Dubrovnik proudly calls itself the "Pearl of the Adriatic" and its fortress is one of the best preserved in Europe. As you walk around the imposing walls of the old town, you can look out across two seas - the deep blue Adriatic and a sea of red roof shingles. The old town, with its beautiful squares, magnificent boulevards and narrow winding alleyways, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dubrovnik/Croatia
Bari/Italy
Otranto/Italy
Otranto is the most easterly port in Italy and, due to its geographic location in the Adriatic, has had an extremely eventful history over the centuries. Not far away is Lecce, one of the most beautiful and affluent cities in southern Italy whose heyday was immortalised in stone over 200 years. The Baroque cityscape, in the idiosyncratic "barocco leccese" style, is characterised by a marble-like stone known as Lecce stone. The numerous palaces and the Basilica di Santa Croce have profusely decorated facades and art feels right at home here. There is good reason why people are proud of its evocative nickname, the Florence of the South.
At sea
Crotone/Italy
Naxos (Taormina)/Sicily
Taormina is perched on a rock with a majestic view over the sea. In the 19th century, this small town had already developed into a dream destination for well-heeled travellers and artists. The town's fascination lies in its elegance, the many ancient buildings, the stunningly beautiful coastline, the mild climate, and the view over the silhouette of Etna. Europe's largest volcano is over 3,000 metres (9,843 foot) high, has four summit craters and around 400 subsidiary craters, and is covered with snow almost all year round. In ancient times it was considered the seat of the gods, but nowadays large sections of it are a nature reserve.
Naxos (Taormina)/Sicily
La Valletta/Malta
Disembarkation.
This strategically important location has always attracted foreign conquerors. More than 7,000 years ago, a civilisation existed here, leaving behind enormous temple complexes. Just like proud Valletta, these are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jean Parisot de la Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St John, founded a modern fortified city on a rock in 1566, between the two splendid natural ports of Marsamxett and Grand Harbour. Long rows of facades made from golden-yellow blocks of chalk stretch along the straight streets. Splendid Renaissance and Baroque buildings are evidence of riches and power, such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the impressive St John's Co-Cathedral.
Overview
Ancient Treasures & the Baroque Resplendence of Apulia & Calabria
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
A different approach to the Adriatic Sea – head for ancient treasures and the baroque resplendence of Apulia and Calabria: Dubrovnik – Malta
Between modernity and tradition: Bari
The wide boulevard Corso Emanuele II in Bari connects two very different worlds. While magnificent patrician houses and elegant shops dominate the new town, history comes alive in the old town with its labyrinth of narrow lanes. Most of this quarter has been reconstructed and so, modern tavernas
and young galeries can now be found besides the Castello Svevo and numerous Apulian-Romanic churches.
The Florence of the South: Lecce
Lecce is considered one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy. Thanks to a special form of tuff stone, the town evolved into a splendid baroque city with richly decorated facades gleaming in white and gold. In Otranto there is no better way to see out the day than with a stroll through the lively old town.
Crotone: romantic old town with ancient core
A maze of narrow lanes is hidden behind the town wall that used to protect Crotone against pirate attacks in the old days. Almost every building here includes remnants of ancient times because – as in the cathedral and the castle – vestiges of Greek buildings were recycled when the town was rebuilt. Impressive findings from ancient Kroton can be admired in the archaeological museum.
A lecturer accompanies the trip
Exciting topics, background information and fascinating facts – our expert offers talks on a whole range of subjects from his specialist field.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 109 meters
Passenger Capacity: 64
Built / refurbished: 1931 / 2011
Sea Cloud is a ship with a soul, imbued by the original owners, Marjorie Merriweather Post and her husband E.F. Hutton in the 1930’s. The ship has played host to royalty, known service in wartime, and sailed the world over. She is a vessel of incomparable grace that harks back to the golden age of ship travel. Once you’ve been on Sea Cloud under full sail, you’ll begin your own love affair.
Welcome aboard a legend
Sea Cloud accommodates 64 guests in 32 outside cabins including two original owner’s suites that still feature original marble baths and fireplaces. With 110 meters she is an expansive ship with extensive public spaces on the top deck, where we luxuriate in deck chairs and watch the crew of 18 go aloft in the web of riggings to handset her 30 sails. Her dining room is hung with marine oil paintings of the period and accommodates all guests at once for a single seating. We’ll gather in the lounge each evening for Recap. Life aboard is a uniquely pleasing mix of elegance and informality—a return to the golden age of sailing in shorts and deck shoes. You’ll find all shipboard services impeccable.
Discover the romance of tall ship sailing
Experience something many people don’t know exists in the 21st century—the romance of life under square sails. Discover the thrill of standing on deck as Sea Cloud gently glides through the water, her crew aloft in the riggings, running out and reefing sails. Settle into your favourite areas on the top deck and bask in the incomparable experience of travelling aboard the finest tall ship to ever sail the seas. Lose yourself in an adventure that, in this day and age, is almost unimaginable.
17.10.2019
<read more>
La Valletta/Malta
This strategically important location has always attracted foreign conquerors. More than 7,000 years ago, a civilisation existed here, leaving behind enormous temple complexes. Just like proud Valletta, these are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jean Parisot de la Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St John, founded a modern fortified city on a rock in 1566, between the two splendid natural ports of Marsamxett and Grand Harbour. Long rows of facades made from golden-yellow blocks of chalk stretch along the straight streets. Splendid Renaissance and Baroque buildings are evidence of riches and power, such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the impressive St John's Co-Cathedral.
At sea
Trapani/Sicily
The old town and port of Trapani lies on a picturesque crescent-shaped headland at the foot of Monte Erice. You will discover many little treasures browsing through the beautiful town centre. For the last 1,000 years, fine black and red coral jewellery has been made here. The mountain town of Erice is a real architectural gem. Not far from Tapani, this idyllic little town is tucked away in a picturesque hilltop setting overlooking the countryside and the sea. Protected defiantly by a wall, the town retains its splendid medieval atmosphere.
Palermo/Sicily
The character of Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, was mainly forged by the Arabs, Swabian dynasty and Normans. Noble palaces line the magnificent streets, cheerful-looking Art Nouveau houses stand next to Baroque buildings and a little further on you are faced with pure Gothic facades. The medieval quarter towers above the huge Palazzo Reale with its "Capella Palatina", a masterpiece in the Arab-Byzantine-Norman style. The small mountain town of Monreale gives you a breathtaking view over the town and the bay, as well as the 12th century cathedral whose interior combines Romanesque, Byzantine and Arab art with rich gold mosaics.
Lipari/Aeolian Islands
Lipari is a tranquil little spot and the largest of the Aeolian Islands, with a cultural heritage stretching back over 6,000 years. Right from first glance you can see its volcanic heritage, with some of the rock formations resembling sculptures, and the entire group of islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Aeolian Museum is set on the castle hill and holds an impressive collection of prehistoric and ancient artefacts from this volcanic group of islands. You will find the southern Italian way of life in this little port infectious.
Naxos (Taormina)/Sicily
Taormina is perched on a rock with a majestic view over the sea. In the 19th century, this small town had already developed into a dream destination for well-heeled travellers and artists. The town's fascination lies in its elegance, the many ancient buildings, the stunningly beautiful coastline, the mild climate, and the view over the silhouette of Etna. Europe's largest volcano is over 3,000 metres (9,843 foot) high, has four summit craters and around 400 subsidiary craters, and is covered with snow almost all year round. In ancient times it was considered the seat of the gods, but nowadays large sections of it are a nature reserve.
Syracuse/Sicily
The municipal area of Syracuse boasts relics from cultural history going back more than three millennia. In ancient times, the city was the most powerful in the known world and was famed for its splendour. The island of Ortigia, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was where Syracuse began its rise as an ancient city. The huge cathedral is at the heart of the old town, magnificent palaces line the Piazza and wide promenades invite you to take a stroll. The archaeological park brings Greek and Roman history back to life. Yet Syracuse exudes southern Italian charm, with washing drying outside the windows.
La Valletta/Malta
Disembarkation.
Overview
Sicily: Through 3,000 Years of Cultural History
Exclusive, relaxed, informal – the luxury cruises offered by Sea Cloud Cruises have a five-star style all of their own. An excellent service that meets even the highest of standards, ships that are fitted with lovingly selected furnishings and an array of inclusive services will help make your journey with Sea Cloud Cruises a highly relaxing one.
Sicily on the starboard side – once right around the varied island and through 3,000 years of cultural history: Malta – Malta
Sicily’s many facets
The largest of the Mediterranean islands is a fabulously diverse microcosm in its own right – with rich cultural history dating back 3,000 years, with different monuments marking each era, with Europe’s highest and most active volcano, Mount Etna, and with towns and villages featuring a character and flair all of their own.
A masterwork of mosaics: the Cappella Palatina
The narrow streets of Palermo’s historic centre with their rattling Vespa scooters and vivacious market women lead to the impressive Norman palace. Inside you will find the famous Cappella Palatina. Its richness is simply overwhelming: The erstwhile royal chapel is decorated with elements of both Christian and Islamic style, artistic carvings and marble floors. It contains an inner room which is entirely covered with precious golden mosaics.
Syracuse: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cicero once described Syracuse as “the greatest and most beautiful of the Greek cities”. Up to a million people – three times the population of mighty Athens – are claimed to have lived there in antiquity. This city on the small island of Ortigia was later conquered first by the Romans, then by Arabs, Byzantines and Normans. They have left behind a unique architectural heritage: The UNESCO declared Syracuse a World Heritage Site in 2005 due to its archaeological importance.
A lecturer accompanies the trip
Exciting topics, background information and fascinating facts – our expert offers talks on a whole range of subjects from his specialist field.
Please Note: more Mediterranean sailing cruises are available, not all of them are listed online. Please contact us for more details.
Ship information
Sea Cloud
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 109 meters
Passenger Capacity: 64
Built / refurbished: 1931 / 2011
Sea Cloud is a ship with a soul, imbued by the original owners, Marjorie Merriweather Post and her husband E.F. Hutton in the 1930’s. The ship has played host to royalty, known service in wartime, and sailed the world over. She is a vessel of incomparable grace that harks back to the golden age of ship travel. Once you’ve been on Sea Cloud under full sail, you’ll begin your own love affair.
Welcome aboard a legend
Sea Cloud accommodates 64 guests in 32 outside cabins including two original owner’s suites that still feature original marble baths and fireplaces. With 110 meters she is an expansive ship with extensive public spaces on the top deck, where we luxuriate in deck chairs and watch the crew of 18 go aloft in the web of riggings to handset her 30 sails. Her dining room is hung with marine oil paintings of the period and accommodates all guests at once for a single seating. We’ll gather in the lounge each evening for Recap. Life aboard is a uniquely pleasing mix of elegance and informality—a return to the golden age of sailing in shorts and deck shoes. You’ll find all shipboard services impeccable.
Discover the romance of tall ship sailing
Experience something many people don’t know exists in the 21st century—the romance of life under square sails. Discover the thrill of standing on deck as Sea Cloud gently glides through the water, her crew aloft in the riggings, running out and reefing sails. Settle into your favourite areas on the top deck and bask in the incomparable experience of travelling aboard the finest tall ship to ever sail the seas. Lose yourself in an adventure that, in this day and age, is almost unimaginable.
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