First Impressions

The 'wow' moment came almost immediately. Seeing Sea Cloud II for the first time with her billowing sails and classic lines, she looked more like a movie set than a modern cruise ship. There’s something deeply nostalgic about her presence—elegant, timeless, and unlike anything else at sea. And yet, behind the old-world glamour, you’ll find all the modern comforts you could ask for. I felt a genuine sense of excitement just stepping aboard, knowing I was about to experience something truly unique.



What Makes Sea Cloud Different?

Sea Cloud II isn’t your typical cruise. It’s more like sailing on a private yacht with a rich history and all the comfort of modern luxury. What struck me most was the flexibility of the itinerary, the ability to change course and discover smaller, more unusual ports that larger ships simply can’t reach. It feels personal and immersive, with an ever-present sense of discovery.

There’s also the freedom to make the trip your own. Whether you're sipping wine on deck or stepping ashore to explore a new destination, each day offers a fresh sense of discovery and delight. In the lounge, there are relaxed lectures on the fascinating history of Sea Cloud and insightful previews of the next destination. If you’re heading off to explore on your own, the team is full of helpful hints and tips—you’re never pressured to join an organised excursion unless you want to.



One of the most memorable moments for me, was watching guests climb the rigging, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the brave. The crew were incredibly supportive, and seeing fellow travellers reach the top with pride was both emotional and empowering, even from the safety of the deck (I’m not great with heights!).

Who is Sea Cloud For?

Before boarding, I imagined Sea Cloud II might cater mostly to older travellers, but I was pleasantly surprised. The guests were a vibrant mix—couples, friends, and solo travellers in their 30s, 40s, 50s and up. It’s a shared experience, often chosen to mark a special occasion, and it offers something for everyone: culture, history, luxury, and a sense of freedom.

Magical Moments at Sea

One unforgettable moment was spotting dolphins swimming alongside the ship during an excursion in Cassis. Completely unscripted, and magical. Another standout was visiting the small town of Collioure where I learned about the origins of Henri Matisse, a perfect example of how this journey continuously weaves culture into the itineraries.

Addressing the Unknown

Since you may not have heard of Sea Cloud Cruises, you might imagine the typical cruise experience. But this isn’t about large ships or crowded decks. This is intimate, luxurious sailing where you feel like part of a story. It's elegant but relaxed, adventurous yet comfortable, and completely different from what you might expect.

Personal Takeaways

I boarded the ship knowing a little about its history, but I left with a deep appreciation for everything it represents. The cabins were far more spacious and luxurious than I expected, and the food was consistently excellent. But more than anything, it was the atmosphere refined, warm, and quietly adventurous.

Curious to Learn More?

If the idea of luxury sailing with a sense of adventure speaks to you, Sea Cloud Cruises could be your next unforgettable journey. With itineraries spanning the Azores, Madeira, the Canaries, Morocco, the Mediterranean, Costa Rica, Panama the Caribbean including the Lesser Antilles & the Grenadines there’s a destination to match every mood—whether you're chasing sun, culture, or wild landscapes.

Head over to Instagram to see more of my photos and behind-the-scenes moments.

Have any questions or ready to start planning? Get in touch—we’d love to help you experience it for yourself.