Sea Cloud is no ordinary cruise ship – it’s a sailing legend, an exquisite tall ship that has captivated guests since 1931. Originally built as a private yacht, it now accommodates just 65 guests and offers an intimate, authentic Mediterranean voyage. With its majestic masts, billowing sails set by hand, and a warm, attentive crew, Sea Cloud allows you to immerse yourself in a world of maritime history, refined comfort, and genuine adventure. Under full sail, each journey becomes an unforgettable encounter with the sea, the wind, and the storied ports of the Mediterranean.
A Storied History
Built for American heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, Sea Cloud was once the world’s largest private yacht. Over the decades, it hosted royalty, served diplomatic missions, and even helped the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. After a period of varied ownership, a dedicated German group restored the vessel to its former glory in the late 1970s. Today, Sea Cloud retains the elegant atmosphere of a grand private home, enchanting travelers with its legacy, craftsmanship, and timeless romance.
Life Onboard
Step aboard Sea Cloud, and you’ll notice an atmosphere more akin to a private home than a traditional cruise. Expansive teak decks, shaded lounges, and a welcoming outdoor bar encourage friendly conversation and easy relaxation. Fine meals, often served alfresco, bring guests together over gourmet dishes and complimentary wines, creating a warm, social environment. The attentive crew recalls each returning traveler, fostering a yacht-club feeling that makes everyone feel at ease.
Rather than flashy shows or casinos, entertainment is refreshingly straightforward. Watch skilled deckhands climb into the rigging to manage the sails, enjoy live piano music under the open sky, or chat with fellow guests over afternoon treats. Evenings may feature a short lecture, an informal gathering, or simply starlit peace as the ship moves quietly across calm waters.
Excursions and Activities
Sea Cloud’s itineraries highlight the Mediterranean’s hidden gems and iconic ports. Thanks to her size and agility, the ship calls at destinations where larger vessels cannot venture. Knowledgeable guides lead cultural excursions, offering glimpses into the region’s art, architecture, and traditions. Stroll through ancient villages, admire historic fortresses, and sample local delicacies. Water sports gear is provided at anchor on select sailings, letting you swim, snorkel, or windsurf in secluded bays.
Elegant Staterooms
Accommodations on Sea Cloud reflect its heritage. The original staterooms, designed during its private yacht era, retain antique furnishings, decorative fireplaces, and exquisite woodwork. Each is distinct, echoing the ship’s storied past and the notable guests who once stayed there. Large bathrooms and thoughtful details enhance the sense of stepping back in time.
Other staterooms, added later, are more modest in size but just as comfortable, with a nautical aesthetic and quality linens. While there are no balconies, each cabin provides a restful retreat close to the gentle rhythm of the sea. Modern distractions are minimal, allowing the ship’s history and the surrounding seascape to take center stage.