For more than 40 years, Sea Cloud Cruises has been one of the world’s top names in cruises, seamlessly combining an exciting sailing adventure with a relaxing cruise and the atmosphere of a private yacht. The 90-year old four-masted barque SEA CLOUD, her younger sister, the SEA CLOUD II and the new SEA CLOUD SPIRIT are among the most distinctive vessels at sea and have been regularly voted among the top five cruise ships in the world by the Berlitz Cruise Guide.
At a time when many people are returning to what really counts in life, the true value of windjammers is once again becoming apparent, something which Sea Cloud Cruises has appreciated for many years. The rhythm of the wind and waves determines the rhythm and direction of life on board. Under a full set of sails, the values of classic seamanship are in the foreground and people are very much at the center of everything that happens on board. In the cosy atmosphere of a private yacht, friendships develop and grow. This is travel in the original sense. On every trip with the Sea Cloud, the Sea Cloud II and the Sea Cloud Spirit, the journey itself becomes the goal and time a secondary consideration.
Sea Cloud Cruises has nurtured the concept of gentle tourism. Instead of fighting the sea with engine power, we use the wind whenever possible to get where we need to be – and thus prove that unique experiences and a healthy regard for the environment are not mutually exclusive. As often as we can, we sail. For this, the captain may have to change the route from time to time, if the weather conditions demand it.
In Harmony with Nature, Discover the Difference
The eye-catching Sea Cloud windjammers sail in harmony with nature and the interests of the people in the destination areas, the sea voyages under sail follow interesting, one-of-a-kind itineraries. During the day, you can spend your time relaxing on the open decks or head off for destination-rich adventures ashore
SMALL SHIPS MEAN MORE OPPORTUNITIES
Due to their small size and manoeuvrability, the Sea Cloud ships can sail off the beaten tourist tracks. One thing is always in the center of our minds: to treat other cultures with respect. Our trips offer a balanced mixture of a real sailing experience and exciting discoveries ashore. Our advantage as a “private yacht”: in addition to well-known and popular destinations, we mainly call at smaller, more individual ports, which you can also explore on your own, independently of organized shore excursions.
SETTING SAILS BY HAND
Sailing passion with a tradition: on board the Sea Clouds, the sails are still traditionally set by hand. It is always a spectacular moment when the sailors climb the rigging, loosen the heavy cloth and then haul the lines in from the deck. Nothing happens at the push of a button: almost a full hour passes before all sails can catch the wind.
THE SEA, THE WIND AND ENDLESS HORIZONS
Taste the sea air, hear the sound of the waves and feel the wind filling the 4,100 m² / 44,100 sq ft of sail area. On the Sea Cloud ships you can always be close to the elements as so much on board takes place in the fresh air.
THE FLAIR OF A PRIVATE YACHT
With their endearing manner and attention to service, the entire crew ensures a completely relaxed atmosphere on board. In a small circle of guests you can enjoy the marvellous feeling of being on a private yacht. Arrive, switch off, enjoy; our windjammers are quiet oases in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here you will find pure deceleration – you can just let yourself drift. Whether in the early morning at the deck railing or in the evening at the bar – you will find it easy to strike up conversations with like-minded sailing fans from all over the world. The common experience on board connects. After just a few days under sail, you’ll feel less like a guest and more like a good friend and part of the Sea Cloud family.
PASSIONATE SAILORS
Many of our crew members have been loyal to the Sea Cloud family for over 30 years. For these men and women, windjammers are much more than just a place of work – they are a home. As a guest, you quickly become part of our family and feel at home on board. For many crew members, working on the Sea Clouds has been a dream come true. Whether in the engine room, on the bridge or in the restaurant – the passion for their profession has welded them together into a well-rehearsed and proficient team. They pass on their enthusiasm as proud hosts.
CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Creative and at the highest level, our chefs conjure up exclusive culinary experiences. They like to complement their refined menus with local products and market-fresh fish. The wine selection is matched to the route and delights with excellent wines from each region. Whether breakfast or lunch buffet, evening barbecue on deck, elegant dinner in the restaurant – the cuisine on board is innovative and varied, catering to your individual needs and combining classic, modern and maritime nuances.
ELEGANT AND SPACIOUS
Aboard your chosen vessel, you’ll stay in luxuriously-appointed accommodation. All Sea Cloud cabins offer a view of the sea and the Sea Cloud Spirit even has private balconies.
Thanks to many small details – from the champagne as a welcome drink to the daily bedtime snacks – guests immediately feel at home. The ambience on board is classically maritime. Elegant, spacious teak decks, comfortable deckchairs and fine woods radiate both warmth and cosiness. The tastefully furnished outside cabins are perfectly thought through and offer enough space for personal retreat. Twice a day they are lovingly prepared by your cabin steward or stewardess.
ENJOY OUR GREAT ATTENTION TO EVERY LITTLE DETAIL
Bigger, larger, farther – we happily leave that to others. The Sea Cloud s follow a course of their own. Each of our cruises provides a unique holiday experience, for people who value individuality and love the personal touch. Take on the adventure of slowing down.
SEA CLOUD SHIPS
All yachts offer a captivating sailing experience, with the sails still rigged in the traditional way by hand. But this spectacle is not the only you’ll have a front-row seat for: after all, on a ‘private yacht’ like the Sea Clouds, with their manageable size and open decks, the sea is always close at hand too. Enjoy all this and more in an elegant and casual, but above all intimate and welcoming atmosphere, facilitated by our experienced crew. And, since it’s well known that the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, there is also the opportunity to enjoy first-class cuisine with classical, modern and maritime nuances, as well as regional produce, on whichever of the three yachts you decide to sail with.
SEA CLOUD
Legendary & Unique, a Private Yacht with an Eventful History
Built in 1931 as a private luxury yacht, the Sea Cloud is a living legend combining extravagant charm and an authentic windjammer feeling. She is probably the most beautiful windjammer legend of all times and for many the true center of a journey for a maximum of 64 passengers.
Golden swan-shaped water taps, magnificent marble fireplaces, French antiques – as heiress to a fortune worth millions, Marjorie Merriweather Post was able to give free rein to her imagination when building her private yacht, which was launched in Kiel in 1931. Even today, every detail on the Sea Cloud radiates the glamour of a bygone era. Her elegance seems timeless, as she has retained her unconventional charm.
“First a private yacht, then a floating diplomatic palace, later a warship – the story of the Sea Cloud is more exciting than a novel.” (Captain Evgeny Nemerzhitsky)
SEA CLOUD II
In Style, Authentic and very Individual.
The Sea Cloud II has its very own personality and combines the amenities of a modern cruise ship with the unique atmosphere of a romantic tall ship, offering ample space for up to 94 passengers and the lifestyle of a private yacht.
As an elegant square-sailing boat, the Sea Cloud II, built in 2001, is clearly recognizable as the younger sister of the legendary Sea Cloud. Despite all the maritime family resemblance, she has her own generous personality – and spoils you as a guest with the most modern travel comfort.
“Our ships inspire me again and again – even after many years on board. It’s fascinating what possibilities these yachts offer”. (Captain Kathryn Whittaker)
SEA CLOUD SPIRIT
Inspiring, Spacious and with many New Possibilities. A Windjammer that sets New Standards among Sailors.
Building a three-mast full-rigged ship with a sail area of some 4,100 m2 in the 21st century may seem a little unusual. For Sea Cloud Cruises it is a commitment to true passion for sailing. With her clear, classic line she follows the example of her elegant windjammer sisters but goes completely new ways.
“An entire deck with balcony cabins, an exclusive wellness and SPA area, a fitness room with sea view, a bistro on deck as an evening alternative to “fine dining” in the restaurant – the youngest member of the Sea Cloud family offers plenty of room for individuality in addition to genuine windjammer romance”. (Captain Sergey Komakin)
Introducing the three Sea Clouds
THEME CRUISES
Sea Cloud offers the following themed cruises: Culinary; Music; Bike & Sail; Sailing Together. Let us know if you’d like more information.
We look forward to hearing from you and helping you plan your ideal holiday – 021 434 9394
