HomeStories & VideosTraveling Under Sail with the Historic Sea Cloud Fleet

3 min

Traveling Under Sail with the Historic Sea Cloud Fleet

Hero Image Ships Sea Cloud & Sea Cloud II Exterior AS1026.jpg

Sailing aboard a Sea Cloud ship is an experience that is at once grand and effortlessly casual—a rare chance to get immersed in old-world elegance on a supremely comfortable yacht that feels like home. The historic Sea Cloud, designed by heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, and Sea Cloud II, a modern-day inspiration, are two of the most beautiful vessels at sea today.

Both ships dazzle with pristine sails raised by hand as you lounge on deck in the balmy sea breeze, while their alluring interiors reflect every detail of the extravagant charms of American royalty. As you sail among Caribbean isles or along Mediterranean coastlines, enjoy masterful cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and discover more about the rich nature and history of your destination from inspiring onboard experts.

Relax in a Comfortable and Casual Maritime Atmosphere

When Marjorie Merriweather Post designed Sea Cloud, she achieved the perfect balance of opulence and comfort, creating a space where her affluent friends could unwind under sail, enjoy al fresco meals, and anchor at sea for an impromptu dip. That relaxed, yet elegant atmosphere continues to this day and has been seamlessly adopted by Sea Cloud II. Every aspect of your experience is laid-back and conducive to casual dress, including special events, like the fresh tuna dinner in the ship’s sumptuous dining room.

Photo: David Vargas

Guests enjoy the Lido deck lounge on the ship Sea Cloud.

Savor the Flavors of Your Destination

The Sea Cloud fleet is known for its outstanding cuisine, crafted by chefs who have trained at some of the world’s top restaurants. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients are featured prominently at every meal, including fish and seafood sustainably caught from the surrounding waters. For breakfast and lunch, guests can help themselves to a buffet of fresh fruits, breads, and salads as well as an array of hot dishes. Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II also carry curated selections of complimentary beer, wine, liquors, and liqueurs that guests can enjoy throughout their journey.

Photo: Courtesy of Sea Cloud Cruises

Two chefs filet a fish in the galley on the Sea Cloud II

Enjoy Immersive Exploration on Board

Guests traveling aboard Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II enjoy the immersive programming that is the hallmark of a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic voyage. Delve into your destination’s natural landscape and cultural history during talks from our experts, capture the beauty of your journey with the help of a certified photo instructor, and enjoy evening recaps that highlight your group’s discoveries and set the stage for the next day’s adventures.

Photo: David Vargas

A guest receives photography tips from a certified photo instructor on the ship Sea Cloud

Witness the Art of Sailing

Whether you are beginning your journey or have seen the process before, it is always thrilling to witness acrobatic sailors climb the rigging, loosen the heavy cloth, and haul the lines in from the deck—performing a grand choreography that never ceases to mesmerize. The genuine camaraderie between captain and crew allows them to work in concert. Many of the sailors have been with the Sea Cloud fleet for decades and for them, the square-rigger is home. They are eager to show you an in-depth look at the art of their daily work and the turn-of-the-century navigation system. While at sea, the ship engines are sparsely used, allowing you to settle into a deck chair and become immersed in a tranquil sailing experience.

Photo: Kerstin Tarach

Sailing crew working on the ship Sea Cloud II

Unwind in Comfort and Elegance

The cabins aboard the Sea Cloud fleet harken back to a bygone era of sheer opulence—antique furnishings, marble fireplaces, gold fixtures and exquisite accouterments that are a testament to the power couple who spared no expense in designing each room. Aboard the Sea Cloud, 30 outside-facing cabins are uniquely and regally decorated—each aspect hand-picked by Merriweather Post. The ship also features the two lavish owners’ suites: a rich, wood paneled sanctuary that belonged to her financier husband, E.F. Hutton, and the heiress’ all-white, Louis XVI style room. The 44 outward-facing cabins aboard Sea Cloud II stay true to its counterpart with mahogany and marble finishes while incorporating modernized amenities like flat-screen televisions.

Photo: Dirk Weyer-Fotografie

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