Sea Cloud Cruises

Crew members in safety harnesses work together on the rigging and deck of a traditional tall ship, demonstrating coordinated maritime training and seamanship skills. The image captures the collaborative nature of sailing operations with multiple sailors managing ropes and rigging systems under blue sky conditions.
Vector graphic: scc-logo.svg

Where timeless elegance meets the romance of sailing under canvas

What truly sets Sea Cloud Cruises apart from every other cruise line is the breathtaking experience of sailing under canvas. The crew – many of whom have spent years aboard these ships – set the sails by hand, climbing the rigging to unfurl up to 29 sails on Sea Cloud and 23 on Sea Cloud II. Watching this spectacle from the teak deck, with sails blooming overhead against an azure sky, is a moment that stays with you. There is no engine drone, no vibration. Only the sound of wind in the canvas and the gentle rush of the sea. It is a profoundly moving experience that reconnects you with something timeless – the elemental relationship between vessel, wind, and water.

Sea Cloud Cruises is one of the most singular cruise experiences in the world. A voyage aboard a true tall sailing ship, where wind fills the sails overhead and the rhythm of the sea sets the pace. Founded in 2001 and based in Hamburg, Germany, Sea Cloud Cruises operates a fleet of exquisite sailing vessels carrying no more than 136 guests each – creating an atmosphere of intimacy and refinement that larger ships simply cannot replicate. Hand-set sails, polished brass, gleaming teak decks. These are ships with soul, where every voyage feels like a private journey across the water.

The luxurious tall ship Sea Cloud II is captured underway with all sails fully deployed, showcasing impressive white canvas against a blue ocean and partly cloudy sky. This elegant barque combines classic sailing heritage with modern cruise amenities for an upscale maritime experience.
An elegant fine dining restaurant setting aboard a luxury cruise ship, featuring a beautifully plated gourmet dish with orange and white elements, paired with white wine, fresh floral centerpiece, and impeccable table settings with formal linens and candlelight.
An elegantly appointed oceanview stateroom aboard a luxury cruise ship, featuring a premium bed with neutral bedding, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea, a seating area with striped upholstered furniture, and nautical-themed décor including a sailboat artwork. The sophisticated cabin showcases modern amenities and refined coastal design elements.
Crew members in safety harnesses work together on the rigging and deck of a traditional tall ship, demonstrating coordinated maritime training and seamanship skills. The image captures the collaborative nature of sailing operations with multiple sailors managing ropes and rigging systems under blue sky conditions.

A voyage unlike anything else on the water – where heritage, elegance, and the open sea converge

Sea Cloud Cruises occupies a category all its own – a niche so rarefied that comparisons to conventional cruise lines fall short. These are not simply small luxury ships; they are living legends, tall sailing vessels where the traditions of the sea are honored every day. The onboard atmosphere is warm, unhurried, and wonderfully social, with no formal entertainment program or casino. The entertainment is the voyage itself. Watch the sunset from the lido deck as the sails glow amber above you. Read in a quiet corner while the ship moves under wind power alone. Strike up a conversation with fellow travelers over a glass of wine at dinner. This is cruising distilled to its purest, most beautiful form – and it speaks to those who value authenticity, heritage, and the irreplaceable magic of the open sea. Ideal for couples seeking romance on the water, history enthusiasts drawn to living maritime heritage, and experienced cruisers looking for something truly unlike anything else afloat.

Cruise Search

Destinations Steeped in Culture and Beauty

Sea Cloud Cruises’ intimate sailing ships can access smaller harbors and secluded anchorages well beyond the reach of conventional cruise ships. This allows for itineraries that focus on authentic, culturally rich destinations – charming Mediterranean fishing villages, sun-drenched Greek islands, the dramatic coastlines of the Canary Islands, and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. The fleet sails primarily in the Mediterranean (including the western and eastern Med, the Adriatic, and the Aegean), Northern Europe, the Atlantic coast, and the Caribbean during winter months. Every port feels personal, every arrival leisurely – a genuine invitation to explore rather than a brief stopover on a packed schedule.

Or call us directly at (352) 432-8131

Gallery

Crew members in safety harnesses work together on the rigging and deck of a traditional tall ship, demonstrating coordinated maritime training and seamanship skills. The image captures the collaborative nature of sailing operations with multiple sailors managing ropes and rigging systems under blue sky conditions.
The luxurious tall ship Sea Cloud II is captured underway with all sails fully deployed, showcasing impressive white canvas against a blue ocean and partly cloudy sky. This elegant barque combines classic sailing heritage with modern cruise amenities for an upscale maritime experience.
An elegant fine dining restaurant setting aboard a luxury cruise ship, featuring a beautifully plated gourmet dish with orange and white elements, paired with white wine, fresh floral centerpiece, and impeccable table settings with formal linens and candlelight.
An elegantly appointed oceanview stateroom aboard a luxury cruise ship, featuring a premium bed with neutral bedding, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea, a seating area with striped upholstered furniture, and nautical-themed décor including a sailboat artwork. The sophisticated cabin showcases modern amenities and refined coastal design elements.

What’s Included In Your Cruise Package?

Your extraordinary cruise adventure comes with many included amenities from the cruise line. In addition, Extraordinary Adventures offers our clients extra complimentary benefits as well as popular upgrades to create a seamless door-to-door experience.

Included in Every Sea Cloud Cruise

  • Port taxes and fees
  • All meals onboard (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner)
  • Selected wines and beverages with meals
  • Use of onboard fitness and wellness facilities
  • Water sports equipment (where available)
  • Onboard enrichment lectures and cultural programs
  • Gratuities

Your Extraordinary Adventures Cruise Also Includes

  • Expert guidance choosing your itinerary, ship, and cabin
  • Recommendations on shore excursions
  • Advice on cruise and travel policies and procedures
  • Emergency assistance while on your trip
  • Recommendations on travel insurance

Add Extraordinary Adventures White Glove Service to Receive

  • We arrange car service and transfers
  • We book flights*
  • We reserve hotel stays
  • We coordinate pre-cruise and post-cruise travel planning

$250 Planning Fee per stateroom.
Complimentary for guests who book this cruise line.
*Terms and conditions apply.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sea Cloud Cruises

Sea Cloud Cruises is in a class entirely its own. These are authentic tall sailing ships – not motorized vessels with decorative sails – where the crew sets sails by hand, climbing the rigging just as sailors have done for centuries. The fleet carries a maximum of 136 guests, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and exclusivity that even the smallest conventional cruise ships cannot match. The experience centers on the romance of sailing, cultural immersion, and relaxed elegance rather than onboard entertainment or spectacle. And the original Sea Cloud herself, with her storied history as Marjorie Merriweather Post’s private yacht, offers a voyage steeped in living history that no other cruise line can replicate.

Sea Cloud Cruises sails primarily in the Mediterranean – including the western and eastern Med, the Adriatic, the Aegean, and the coasts of Italy, Greece, Croatia, and Spain. The fleet also ventures to the Canary Islands, the Atlantic coast, and Northern Europe during warmer months. In winter, the ships cross the Atlantic to sail the Caribbean, including the Lesser Antilles and other tropical destinations. Their small size allows access to intimate harbors and secluded anchorages that remain inaccessible to full-sized cruise ships, opening up charming fishing villages, hidden coves, and culturally rich ports far from the usual cruise crowds.

Sea Cloud Cruises includes many elements in the fare, such as all meals onboard (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner), selected wines and beverages with lunch and dinner, gratuities, port taxes, onboard enrichment programs, and use of fitness and wellness facilities. Some voyages also include shore excursions. Premium spirits, champagne, and certain specialty beverages may carry additional charges. Flights and transfers are generally not included in the base fare. Contact your Extraordinary Adventures advisor for details on specific voyage inclusions.

Sea Cloud Cruises operates three true sailing ships, each with its own distinctive character. The original Sea Cloud, built in 1931 as the private yacht of Marjorie Merriweather Post, carries just 64 guests and features 29 hand-set sails, original antique furnishings, and legendary owner’s suites with marble fireplaces. Sea Cloud II, launched in 2001, accommodates up to 94 guests with a slightly more contemporary feel while honoring the fleet’s nautical heritage. Sea Cloud Spirit, the newest vessel, which debuted in 2021, carries up to 136 guests and features modern amenities including a spa, fitness center, and many staterooms with private balconies – all while maintaining the soul of a genuine tall ship.

Yes, a valid passport is required for all Sea Cloud Cruises voyages, as itineraries operate in international waters and visit ports across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Atlantic, and Northern Europe. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your voyage. Some itineraries may also require visas depending on the countries visited. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor will review your specific itinerary and provide guidance on all documentation requirements well in advance of your departure.

Dining is a highlight of every Sea Cloud voyage. All meals are included and served in a single elegant dining room with open seating, creating a warm, social atmosphere more reminiscent of a private dinner party than a cruise ship restaurant. Menus change daily and draw inspiration from the regions through which you’re sailing, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Five-course dinners are paired with carefully selected wines. Casual lunches on deck, afternoon tea, and an open bar complete the culinary experience. The intimate scale means the chef can accommodate dietary preferences and special requests with genuine attentiveness.

Rather than the packed activity schedules found on larger ships, Sea Cloud Cruises offers a more contemplative, culturally enriching experience. Expect expert guest lecturers on history, culture, and the natural world, along with destination briefings before each port of call. The incomparable spectacle of watching the crew set sails by hand is an enrichment experience in itself. Some ships offer water sports platforms, a small fitness area, and a spa or wellness space. The true entertainment is the sailing itself – the sights, sounds, and sensations of life under canvas on the open sea.

Due to the historic nature of the fleet – particularly the original Sea Cloud, built in 1931 – these vessels were not designed with modern accessibility standards in mind. Stairways, raised thresholds, and tender operations at certain ports can present challenges for guests with limited mobility. Sea Cloud Spirit, the newest vessel, offers improved accessibility features compared to her older sisters. We recommend discussing any specific mobility needs with your Extraordinary Adventures advisor, who can help determine which ship and itinerary would be the most comfortable fit for you.

The atmosphere aboard Sea Cloud ships is elegant but relaxed. During the day, smart casual attire is appropriate – think resort wear for time on deck and ashore. Evenings call for more refined attire: elegant casual to semi-formal for most nights, with one or two gala evenings per voyage where cocktail attire or a suit and tie are invited. The overall tone is sophisticated without being rigid – perfectly suited to the refined yet welcoming character of these ships.

Sea Cloud Cruises voyages tend to sell out well in advance due to the exceptionally small capacity of the fleet – just 64, 94, or 136 guests per sailing. Booking 9-12 months ahead is strongly recommended, particularly for peak Mediterranean summer sailings, Caribbean winter crossings, and voyages aboard the original Sea Cloud, which carries only 64 guests. Popular itineraries and the legendary owner’s suites can fill even earlier. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor can monitor availability and alert you when new itineraries are released, giving you first-look access to the most sought-after departures.

Not sure which specialty cruise is right for you?

Take our short quiz to discover the perfect specialty cruise for your travel style and bucket list.

We Know the Perfect Destinations for You

Alaska

Antarctica

Caribbean

Europe

Greece

Greenland

Iceland

Italy

Mediterranean

What Our Clients Say

Real clients. Real experiences. Never ordinary – always extraordinary.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“These two definitely know their ships, and if they don’t, they know where to find answers. We had never booked with an agent before, but after our first experience with Extraordinary Adventures, we were so pleased that we quickly booked our second cruise shortly after. Their response times are rapid, and their suggestions are immeasurable.”

Sabrina & Marty S

Verified Client · Google Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Scott and Laura were very helpful and professional from the first minute. The information I got saved me money and time. Wonderful, friendly, personal, and quick service. Response within minutes to all my questions. Thank you for the great work.”

Richard & Pascal F

Verified Client

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I gave them a budget, what I wanted, and potential dates. They did the rest! Gave me checklists for what to pack, suggestions of things to do, and the best plans for the biggest bang for our buck. They even checked on us when we returned to be sure we had an enjoyable experience.”

Kristy & Anthony R

Verified Client · Google Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We have tried different venues to purchase cruises and definitely prefer working with Scott and Laura. They have always put our best interest at the forefront. They are professional and easy to contact and take the worry out of our travel plans.”

Michael & Virginia D

Verified Client · YouTube Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Scott and Laura are super knowledgeable and incredibly fast to respond to questions. They helped make our last cruise worry- and stress-free. I have referred two of my friends who used their services and were very happy. They will go out of their way to help. Super friendly!”

Darla C

Verified Client

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Laura and Scott are great people to help assist with any vacation needs. I found them to be very attentive to my wants and needs. They have been very informative, provided great suggestions to help make the most of my vacation, and they are very upfront and honest. I will definitely use Extraordinary Adventures again.”

Joshua & Rachel W

Verified Client · Google Review

Small Ships, Big Experiences

Find Your Perfect Boutique Voyage

Boutique and yacht cruises offer something the big ships simply cannot — true intimacy, the freedom to explore hidden harbours, and a genuine sense of occasion under sail. Whether you dream of tall ships, private yacht-style vessels, or intimate expedition yachts, our specialists know exactly which voyage will steal your heart.