Embark on a captivating Mediterranean voyage, exploring a string of enchanting islands and historic ports. Begin in Dubrovnik, Croatia, before heading to the charming Korcula, known for its medieval towers and wine. Sail through the Ionian Islands, discovering the picturesque beauty of Paxos, Antipaxos, and Kefalonia. Experience the blend of ancient and modern in Otranto, Italy, and the rich history of Saranda, Albania. Continue your journey through Monemvasia in the Peloponnese, with its stunning architecture and scenery, before concluding in Athens, Greece, soaking in the cultural splendor of the ancient city. This itinerary offers a blend of history, stunning landscapes, and rich local flavors.
- Elegance in Every Sip: Vineyards bring contrasting beauty to the medieval towers of Korcula, birthplace of Marco Polo.
- Primitivo Meets Baroque: Marvel at the magnificent architecture in Lecce, and taste the fine wines of Apulia.
- Troy in Miniature: Visit the millennia-old World Heritage Site of Butrint.
- Ionian Islands: Colorful fishing ports and divine bays amaze on Paxos and Kefalonia.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Departure 7:00 pm
When Venice still ruled the Adriatic, Dubrovnik was an important maritime republic and the floating city's chief rival. Dubrovnik proudly calls itself the "Pearl of the Adriatic" and its fortress is one of the best preserved in Europe. As you walk around the imposing walls of the old town, you can look out across two seas – the deep blue Adriatic and a sea of red roof shingles. The old town, with its beautiful squares, magnificent boulevards and narrow winding alleyways, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Arrival 2:00 pm, Departure 11:00 pm
The Adriatic island of Korcula is one of the greenest in the region. Vineyards and olive groves stretch across rolling hills. The island's main town of the same name is protected by a city wall. It is one of the best-preserved medieval Mediterranean towns. Some buildings evoke the time when the maritime power of Venice ruled. Tintoretto is immortalised in the cathedral, and in one of the narrow streets you can search for the house where Marco Polo was born.
Climbing the rigging, untying ropes, setting sails – today is all about sailing. Time to lean back and relax in the deck chair and watch the passionate crew hoisting the sails by hand.
Arrival 4:00 pm
Otranto is the most easterly port in Italy and, due to its geographic location in the Adriatic, has had an extremely eventful history over the centuries. Not far away is Lecce, one of the most beautiful and affluent cities in southern Italy whose heyday was immortalised in stone over 200 years. The Baroque cityscape, in the idiosyncratic "barocco leccese" style, is characterised by a marble-like stone known as Lecce stone. The numerous palaces and the Basilica di Santa Croce have profusely decorated facades and art feels right at home here. There is good reason why people are proud of its evocative nickname, the Florence of the South.
Departure 2:00 pm
Otranto is the most easterly port in Italy and, due to its geographic location in the Adriatic, has had an extremely eventful history over the centuries. Not far away is Lecce, one of the most beautiful and affluent cities in southern Italy whose heyday was immortalised in stone over 200 years. The Baroque cityscape, in the idiosyncratic "barocco leccese" style, is characterised by a marble-like stone known as Lecce stone. The numerous palaces and the Basilica di Santa Croce have profusely decorated facades and art feels right at home here. There is good reason why people are proud of its evocative nickname, the Florence of the South.
Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 1:30 pm
Close to the small seaport of Sarande, amidst a national park, lies Butrint, one of Albania's greatest attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city became a spa and festival town in the ancient world as early as 2,500 years ago, and every era in Greek, Roman and Byzantine history has left behind evidence in stone. Discover the spectacular Lion Gate from the 4th century BC. Four fifths of this archaeological site still remain to be uncovered.
Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 1:30 pm
Even gods need a break! In search of a romantic beach together with his wife Amphitrite, Poseidon once used his trident to tear off a piece of Corfu. And in a flash, Paxos was created. This slim, rocky Ionian island is still as fabulous today as the myth of its creation. More than 30 famous beaches with crystal clear water and bright pebbles stretch out in the warm Greek sun. Most of them nestle up to the beautiful east coast. To the west, impressive rock formations with magical grottoes and caves dominate the coastline. Whether down in its pretty fishing villages or up in its scattered mountain villages, Paxos likes to be laid-back.
Arrival 02:30 pm, Departure 07:00 pm
Antipaxos is a small, yet breathtakingly beautiful island in the Ionian island group. Renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, it's a paradise for sun worshippers and nature enthusiasts. With only a few residents and a laid-back lifestyle, Antipaxos offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, visitors can bask in the tranquility of nature and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Arrival 1:30 pm, Departure 11:00 pm
The largest, greenest, most picturesque of the Ionian Islands – while Kefalonia is bursting with superlatives, it remains a well-kept secret. This is good for us because the island in the middle of the Gulf of Patras has so much to offer – from its 1,600 meter-high black Mount Ainos to the depths of the Melissani lake in a legendary stalactite cave. The cliffs on Kefalonia’s coastline offer fantastic views of clear waters and bright pebble beaches. And if you just want to relax, then nab a quiet spot in the idyllic fishing village of Fiskardo amidst colorful flowers and bright window shutters, and just take it easy.
Under full sails: Experience the perfect way to escape everyday hustle and bustle.
Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 1:30 pm
The little town of Monemvasia nestles closely against a rock that lies just off the coast. This impregnable fortress was an important trading center in Byzantine times. Today it is a retreat for wealthy Athenians who spend their weekends here. Behind its walls you can discover the beautifully restored lower town, where you simply want to drift along the tranquil narrow lanes. This picturesque little town on a rock transports you back in time to the romantic Middle Ages, when it was exceptionally modern and lively.
Arrival 6:00 am
"A ship will come...", declared the singer Melina Mercouri to the port of Piraeus. Later, as Greek Minister for Culture, she made Athens the first European Capital of Culture in 1985. The city is considered the birthplace of Europe, of philosophy and of democracy, and is the embodiment of the Olympic ideal. World-famous and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, its landmark is the magnificent Parthenon temple, lying high up on the Acropolis in all its glory. At the foot of the Acropolis hill is the Plaka, the oldest quarter of Athens, and the world's most modern archaeological museum, the new Acropolis Museum, has been here since 2009.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Sea Cloud II
Vessel Type: Tall Ship (Sailing)
Length: 105 metres
Passenger Capacity: 96
Built: 2001
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. Just like her legendary sister ship Sea Cloud, the 29,600 square feet of sails is set by hand which is a truly magical sight. Built to accommodate 96 passengers in five star luxury, she offers a range of beautifully appointed suites and cabins which are furnished with great style. All accommodations have outside views and the bathrooms, in light marble, are unusually spacious and extremely comfortable. The finest, carefully chosen fabrics, combined with leather, rattan and other materials, brass and gold, precious woods and marble together create an impressive ensemble.
No expense has been spared to create a sympathetic ambience in both the accommodations and public areas and this is reflected throughout the vessel. Public areas include an elegant lounge, library, fitness centre, boutique, lido bar and hospital. The single sitting dining room is airy and modern and the quality of the cuisine and service will be to the highest of standards, as one would expect on a Sea Cloud cruise. Relax on the Lido deck and experience the natural grandeur of travelling under sail, rekindling memories of a bygone age.