who owns sea cloud yacht

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Sea Cloud purchased by company managing Ritz-Carlton cruise line

Sea Cloud has signed a letter of intent to be purchased by The Yacht Portfolio, which is overseeing the The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruise start up.

The boutique cruise line specialising in sailing cruise ships will be purchased in its entirety, including all three vessels, according to the letter.

The acquisition not only expands The Yacht Portfolio’s presence in the luxury cruise sector, but also creates an opportunity to expand its relationship with Marriott International beyond The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Sea Cloud Spirit

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It also gives Marriott International the opportunity to enter the cruise industry through its other luxury brands, according to a press release.

“Sea Cloud offers such a unique, environmentally-friendly experience in the cruise space, which aligns well with our continued focus on building a strong portfolio of niche luxury brands,” said Douglas Prothero, CEO of The Yacht Portfolio.

“We look forward to completing a transaction with the Sea Cloud team and supporting the brand’s next phase of growth in the luxury cruise space,” he added.

“We are excited about the transaction between The Yacht Portfolio and Sea Cloud and look forward to the opportunity to collaborate further with The Yacht Portfolio to bring our luxury accommodations to sea,” said Timothy Grisius, Global M&A and Real Estate Officer at Marriott International.

According to a statement from Sea Cloud, its headquarters will remain based in Hamburg, Germany, and its team of employees will stay on as part of this transaction. Sea Cloud’s existing voyage planning and charter commitments are intended to be continued.

“We are pleased that The Yacht Portfolio will strengthen Sea Cloud’s market position,” said Hermann Ebel, Managing Director of Sea Cloud Cruises. “The course is set for many more years of successful international marketing and the foundation is laid for further company and fleet growth.”

Sea Cloud in September last year took delivery of its new three-masted sailing cruise ship, Sea Cloud Spirit, its largest ship to date.

The 138 metre (452.7-foot) three-masted full-rigged ship can accommodate up to 136 guests and is equipped with all the characteristics of a modern cruise liner, including balcony cabins, a wellness area and a fitness centre.

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Tagged as: Sea Cloud , Yacht Club Portfolio

Published by Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com. View all posts by Shaun Ebelthite

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Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection owners acquire more ships: Will other Marriott brands get into cruising?

The owners of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection have plans to acquire another cruise line and are hinting that the opportunity might allow other Marriott brands to get into the cruise industry.

Maritime investment company The Yacht Portfolio on Feb. 1 signed a letter of intent to acquire German cruise line Sea Cloud Cruises, which operates three vessels, all of which are masted sailing ships.

"Sea Cloud offers such a unique environmentally-friendly experience in the cruise space, which aligns well with our continued focus on building a strong portfolio of niche luxury brands," said Douglas Prothero, CEO of The Yacht Portfolio, in a statement. "We look forward to completing a transaction with the Sea Cloud team and supporting the brand's next phase of growth in the luxury cruise space."

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Sea Cloud has been in business since 1979, and it caters heavily to a German-speaking market. Its vessels range in age from less than one year old -- new ship Sea Cloud Spirit began sailing for the line in 2021 -- to 90 years. The latter ship, Sea Cloud, was the original private yacht of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the cereal heiress who, at one time, was one of the richest women in the world.

The Yacht Portfolio indicated that other Marriott brands could be following in Ritz-Carlton's footsteps by bringing their names to the cruise market using the Sea Cloud vessels.

"The acquisition not only expands The Yacht Portfolio's presence in the luxury cruise sector, but also creates an opportunity to expand its relationship with Marriott International beyond The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and gives Marriott International the opportunity to enter the cruise industry through its other luxury brands," the statement said.

The Yacht Portfolio said it does not yet have any information to share with regard to which brands it's considering for the crossover.

What's interesting about the timing of the transaction is that the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection hasn't even sailed its first vessel yet. In Aug. 2021, the line pushed back the launch of its first ship , Evrima, for a fifth time. It was initially scheduled to debut in early 2020, but the timeline has repeatedly been affected by shipyard issues and COVID-19-related delays.

Evrima's first voyage is now scheduled for May 6, 2022.

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A private yacht with an eventful history

Golden swan-shaped water taps, magnificent marble fireplaces, French antiques – as heiress to a fortune worth millions, Marjorie Merriweather Post was able to give free rein to her imagination when building her private yacht, which was launched in Kiel in 1931. Even today, every detail on the SEA CLOUD radiates the glamour of a bygone era. Her elegance seems timeless, as she has retained her unconventional charm.

Captain Sergey Komakin & Captain John Svendsen

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CAT. A Owners’ Suite 1

Like all the original accommodations, Marjorie Merriweather Post furnished the owner’s suites herself. Whenever she traveled aboard the SEA CLOUD, these posh, private quarters were her home, so she outfitted them in opulence. Today, her personal owners’ suite maintains her exquisite touch with white Carrara marble in the fireplace and bathroom, gold-plated swan fixtures, Louis Philippe chairs, an elaborate floor-to-ceiling dressing mirror and ornate golden-trimmed ceilings. The high-end design and furnishings reflect the successful entrepreneur’s penchant for luxuriating on this private yacht in ultimate comfort.

• approx. 410 sq. ft.
• Marble bathroom approx. 97 sq. ft. with shower and bathtub
• dressing table and golden fittings
• California king bed, 71 x 79 in.
• walk-in closet
• marble fireplace (electric)

CAT. A Owners’ Suite 2

In addition to her exquisite taste, Marjorie’s attention to detail is also on display in the owners’ suites, richly reflected in the chambers of her first husband Edward Hutton, who gifted her the majestic SEA CLOUD sailing yacht. The maple wood paneling and furnishings create a feeling of warmth and solidity offset by a light, coffered ceiling. Hutton’s bureau-bookcase secretary with mirrored glass is a particularly stunning piece. In contrast to her white bath, his is done in red Carrara marble and includes a chest of drawers and golden fixtures.

• approx. 366 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 97 sq. ft. with shower and bathtub

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 3

The hospitality Marjorie cultivated still characterizes a stay on board the SEA CLOUD today. The original colonial style of this deluxe suite continues to welcome guests with the posh comforts and ambiance of a private yacht. Renowned nobility, celebrities and industry titans have all called these deluxe suites home on legendary sailings.

• approx. 258 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 43 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• two twin beds, 36 in. x 79 in.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 4

Throughout the commissioned construction of the SEA CLOUD in Kiel, Germany, and later when Marjorie was already living on board, she collected precious antiques from all over the world. This deluxe suite is one of the many examples of how skillfully she integrated the valuable pieces into the interior, and thus, into the overall appearance and ambiance of her private luxury yacht.

• approx. 237 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 54 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• queen bed, 63 in. x 79 in.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 5

Marjorie frequently mentioned her goal of making family, friends and notable guests feel at home every minute on board the SEA CLOUD. Accordingly, she designed spaces like this deluxe suite to feel like the ultimate in comfort, five-star accommodations. Antique mahogany chests of drawers, marble in the bathroom and by the fireplace and unique pieces create cozy elegance.

• approx. 215 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 58 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• two twin beds arranged as a double, 36 in. x 79 in. each

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 6

Exclusive getaways on the SEA CLOUD are also journeys through time. The original design and decor of the deluxe suites feel like a portal to a bygone era of glamor. In the spirit of private yachting, this antique mahogany furniture was selected so as not to overwhelm the space, and the fabric palettes complement the light ambiance of elevated comfort.

• approx. 194 sq. ft.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 7

As the SEA CLOUD’s original owner, Marjorie designed the interiors of her luxury sailing yacht with such attention to detail because she wanted to offer her daughter, Dina Merrill, a wonderful and safe home on board. This is especially noticeable in this deluxe suite where Dina spent a large part of her childhood. The warm maple finishings stand out with dramatic mahogany inlays. The unusual floor plan, including an angled fireplace makes the space feel even larger.

• marble bathroom approx. 75 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub and golden fixtures

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 8

The main deck, where the original suites are located, is the heart and soul of the SEA CLOUD. This deluxe suite envelopes guests in its spirit of an exclusive private yacht. It is on display in the all the details, from fixtures to furnishings to finishings, complemented with a regal red and coral palette. Built-in cabinetry creates extra space.

• approx. 268 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 65 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• California king bed (2 mattresses), 71 x 79 in.
• additional fold-out bed

CAT. C Deluxe Suite 9

Deluxe Suites 9 and 10 are also part of the original accommodations on the main deck. Once used as single cabins for the former shipowners’ staff and their guests, they were redesigned into large luxury lodgings during renovation of the SEA CLOUD.

• marble bathroom approx. 35 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• generous storage space

CAT. C Deluxe Suite 10

The design of Deluxe Suites 9 and 10 is based on historical models with a modern aesthetic in warm fabrics and light wood tones. Both suites are located at the end of the original hallway and connect to the promenade deck by a separate staircase.

• approx. 198 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 39 sq. ft. with shower and golden fixtures

CAT. 1 Staterooms

Like all staterooms on the captain’s and lido deck, these two were built as recently as the late 1970s and offer all the comforts of private yacht accommodations. Panoramic windows cornering the head of the bed create a bright, airy vibe with views to match.

• approx. 140 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom with shower and golden fixtures
• queen bed (2 separate mattresses), 63 in. x 79 in.
• spacious closet

CAT. 2 Staterooms

Even though the staterooms on the captain’s and lido deck were harmoniously integrated into the SEA CLOUD after her initial construction, they still follow the design standards set on the original. Their tasteful interiors are a contemporary interpretation of Marjorie’s aesthetic from the 1930s. The elevated comfort of the spaces is complemented by spectacular sea views from double windows.

• approx. 145 sq. ft.
• two twin beds, 36 in. x 79 in. (convert to queen upon request)

CAT. 3 Staterooms

These plush staterooms have a special maritime charm due to their location between the stations for hoisting and lowering the sails. The deckhouse, which was added during the renovation of the SEA CLOUD, is an oasis of peace, and due to its location on the promenade deck, the staterooms are also only steps away from the restaurant and lounge.

• approx. 135 sq. ft.
• two windows with sea views

CAT. 4 Staterooms

In addition to the luxurious comfort that defines the SEA CLOUD, both staterooms offer a special feature: direct access to the most charming place on the tall ship, the Blue Lagoon. The semi-circular, blue-cushioned space is the traditional onboard area for relaxing under the daytime sun or dreamy night views of starry skies twinkling off the ocean.

• approx. 113 sq. ft.
• window with sea view

CAT. 5 Staterooms

These special staterooms were made for sailing enthusiasts. In Marjorie’s time, these were accommodations for SEA CLOUD officers, thus, the vibe is authentically nautical. The best part, which is exclusive to these staterooms, is direct access to the promenade deck, directly below the bridge. Open the door to breathe in the salty sea air and experience the charming maritime ambience.

• approx. 102 sq. ft.
• upper and lower beds, 32 in. x 79 in.
• porthole and door to promenade deck

Guaranteed double cabins (limited allotment; upon request)

Our guaranteed cabins allow you to book our voyages at a lower rate. A specific cabin number or category cannot be selected. You will receive your exact cabin number when arriving on board. On the SEA CLOUD, the range of accommodation starts from Cat. 5. The allotment for this category is very limited.

Stateroom (twin beds), category 3, No. 20

These comfortable cabins have a special maritime charm due to their location between the manoeuvring stations for hoisting and lowering the sails. The deckhouse, which was added during the renovation of the SEA CLOUD, is an oasis of peace, but due to its location on the promenade deck, the cabins are also only one step away from the restaurant and lounge in the superstructure amidships.

Cabin at a glance:

• approx. 12,5 m² (135 sq. ft.) large
• Marble bathroom with shower
• two single beds 80 cm x 200 cm (32 in. x 79 in.)
• Panorama window

Guaranteed De luxe outside cabins (limited allotment; upon request)

Our guaranteed cabins allow you to book our voyages at a lower rate. A specific cabin number or category cannot be selected. You will receive your exact cabin number when arriving on board. On the SEA CLOUD, the accommodation for the guaranteed De luxe outside cabins is provided in Cat. B or C. The allotment for this category is very limited.

Guaranteed stateroom: Space is limited. Allocations are at SEA CLOUD CRUISES’ discretion starting in Category 5. You will receive your exact stateroom number when arriving on board.

On a course that made history

Technical data and sail diagram

Length overall:

109.50 m / 360 ft

14.94 m / 50 ft

5.13 m / 17 ft

Height of main mast above waterline:

56 m / 184 ft

Total sail area:

3,000 m² / 32,000 sq ft

Number of sails:

Passengers:

Year of construction:

32 outside cabins (of those 10 cabins are located in the luxury area)

Cabin equipment:

Bathrobes, hair dryer, telephone, air conditioning, private safe, exclusive cosmetics

Public areas:

Lido deck with bar, restaurant with free seating in one session, lounge with library and desk area with laptop, hospital, WI-FI, water sports equipment, 2 zodiacs

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Setting Sail: The Story of Sea Cloud

Travel the seas through one of history’s most famous yachts.

Marjorie Merriweather Post’s Hussar V

The first half of the twentieth century was the golden age of ocean travel as most overseas travel was accomplished by ship. In 1930, Marjorie Merriweather Post and her husband, E.F. Hutton, commissioned the building of a four-masted yacht, designed and constructed in Kiel, Germany, which they christened Hussar V. Post took great care with outfitting the ship, much as she did with her homes, creating luxury cabins decorated with French antiques and decadent furnishings. Post sailed extensively from 1932 onwards, using the Hussar V for personal travel, social and diplomatic entertainment, and the hosting of notable guests.

The Coast Guard

In 1942, Marjorie Post and her third husband, Joseph Davies, lent the yacht, now named Sea Cloud , to the United States Coast Guard, in which it served as a weather ship during World War II. Post said, “Since I have no son to give to the war, I will offer the Sea Cloud .” It was the first ship with a racially integrated crew, including African American officers and boatmen such as artist Jacob Lawrence. Pieces created during his capacity as Coast Guard Artist will be on view.

Luxury Liner

After the ship’s retirement from military service and its restoration to its former glory, Marjorie Post traded the ship in 1955 as her interest transitioned to air travel. After passing through numerous hands, Sea Cloud today survives as a luxury cruise liner, traveling throughout the world.

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Sea Cloud Spirit

Former name: sea cloud hussar.

Cruise line Sea Cloud Cruises (Small Cruise Lines)

Sea Cloud Spirit current position

Sea Cloud Spirit current location is at West Mediterranean (coordinates 41.37046 N / 2.18143 E) cruising en route to Barcelona. The AIS position was reported 5 minutes ago.

Specifications of Sea Cloud Spirit

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Sea Cloud Spirit Review

Review of sea cloud spirit.

The 2020-built/2021-inaugurated Sea Cloud Spirit cruise ship is a newbuild full-rigged, 3-masted barque owned by Sea Cloud Cruises GmbH/ fleet (1979-founded, Hamburg -based company). Sea Cloud Spirit is currently the world's largest sailship - with LOA length 138 m (450 ft), GT 4230 tons and DWT 935 tons.

The fleetmates are the sisterships Sea Cloud 1 (1931-built sail yacht, cruiser since 1979) and Sea Cloud II (2000-built). These unique vessels perfectly combine the elegance of sailships with the luxury and comfort of modern superyachts.

The vessel (IMO number 9483712, with yard/hull number "FACTORIA 158") is currently Malta- flagged (MMSI 215855000) and registered in Valletta .

Traditionally for Sea Cloud Cruises, Sea Cloud Spirit is often privately chartered, with a schedule combining regular revenue voyages with time- and voyage charters. The charterers are usually specialized groups renting the ship for events like religious conventions, business meetings, alumni gatherings, private parties (family reunions, birthdays, weddings, celebrations). Some even charter the ship for golf-themed cruises.

History - construction and ownership

The vessel's inauguration (as "Sea Cloud Hussar") was originally scheduled for 2010. However, its construction was stopped after Factoria Naval de Marin (shipbuilding company specializing in luxury yachts) declared bankruptcy in 2010. The Spanish shipyard (in Marin, Pontevedra-Galicia, Spain) produced only the hull and part of the superstructure.

The shipbuilding order was placed in 2008. The vessel's construction was restarted in 2018 at Metalships and Docks SAU (shipyard in Vigo, Spain ) with scheduled delivery in 2020. The current shipowner Sea Cloud Cruises is a Kiel Germany -based cruise company managed by Daniel Schaefer (CEO).

The vessel (design "C-158") was commissioned by shipowner Fernando Fernandez Tapias (Spanish businessman, shipping companies owner). The contract value was USD 100 million. Sea Cloud Hussar's construction started in 2008, but due to the economic crisis, the shipyard stopped working, and eventually declared payment suspensions. Hansa Treuhand rejected the vessel because of the project's high cost and uncertain future. The vessel was in its final stages of completion when in July 2010 works were halted due to the shipyard's bankruptcy. The new shipowner (as mortgage lender) became BANKIA (2010-founded merger of several Spanish savings banks).

In 2014, the Vigo-based Rodman Group bought the hull from BANKIA. On May 7, 2015, the uncompleted mega-yacht was launched (floated-out from Naval Marin's drydock). It was towed to the Rodman Group-owned shipyard "Metalships & Docks" (Vigo Spain), moored and waiting for a buyer.

In September 2016, the shipyard signed a letter of intent with Hansa Treuhand Finance GmbH (part of the Hamburg -based Hansa Treuhand Holding AG) to complete Sea Cloud Hussar. In 2018, the ship was acquired by Sea Cloud Cruises and its construction was re-started.

The shipbuilder Rodman Polyships SL (a subsidiary of Rodman Group) is one of the largest superyacht-building companies. Rodman specializes in ship-building and repairs, construction of pleasure boats (made from polyester reinforced with fiberglass), production of large pieces in composite materials, construction of semi-rigid boats. Rodman boats as LOA length vary between 2-170 m (7-558 ft). In 2015, Rodman Polyships had under construction 10x passenger catamarans (84-ft, 350 passengers) and 40x high-speed patrol boats, plus numerous 33-ft yachts.

Decks and Cabins

Sea Cloud Spirit staterooms (69 total, in 6 grades) are on 3 decks (out 5 total/4 passenger-accessible) , allow max capacity 136 passengers (plus up to 90 crew). All cabins are outside, including 25 (all on Deck 3) with private, step-out balconies (22x Junior Suites and 3x Owner Suites). The other cabins are in categories Deluxe, Deluxe Lido, Superior, and Superior Single.

All staterooms offer as standard (complimentary) amenities smart HDTV (satellite reception, infotainment system - Internet, movies-on-demand, ship info channel, real-time Bridge Cam views), single or double beds with bedside tables, wall-mounted reading lamps, mirrored dressing table / writing desk with chair, electronic safe box and lifejackets (in the closet), seating area (low table with armchairs), wardrobe (slide-open), minibar (refrigerator), coffee machine, en-suite bathroom (WC-toilet, glass-door shower, single-sink with under vanity storage, hairdryer, bathrobes, premium bath products and cosmetics), LED lighting, individually controlled air-conditioning.

Each of the Deluxe Cabins (on Deck 2) is fitted with 2 single beds and 2 small Porthole windows (round-shaped, non-opening). Deluxe Lido cabins (forward on Deck 4) are with large opening windows overlooking the boat's Promenade/Lido Deck.

Junior Suites (on Deck 3) are sized between 315-355 ft2 (29-33 m2) and feature panoramic windows, queen-size double bed (convertible to twins), walk-in closet, larger bathroom (with full bathtub), balcony. Owner Suites (midship on Deck 3) have a Queen-sized double bed (fixed), sitting area (with sofabed), walk-in closet, larger bathroom (with full bathtub), powder room (half-bath / WC-washbasin), balcony.

Two Single Cabins are located forward on Deck 2 and can be booked without single supplement. All other staterooms can be booked as studios (by solo travelers) but with a single supplement 50% (categories D-Deluxe, E-Superior) and 100% (categories A-Owner Suite, B-Junior, C-Deluxe Lido).

Shipboard facilities and amenities

Cruise ship's interiors were designed by the German company Partner Ship Design (Hamburg). Sea Cloud Spirit is the world's first sail ship with an elevator. The lift is located midship and connects all decks (including top-deck). The boat has 3 staircases (forward-bow, midship, aft).

The luxury yacht also features a large Wellness & Spa complex with treatment rooms (for massages), hydro-massage showers, sauna room, steam room, relaxation lounge, beauty salon (hairdresser, manicures-pedicures), Lobby Hall (Reception, Purser, Tours-Cruise Director), Fitness (modern indoor Gym with cardio machines), Promenade Deck (Lido), large Sun Deck with Jacuzzi (whirlpool hot tub), sunbathing area (loungers, tables, deckchairs, daybeds, showers) and 4x Zodiacs (speedboats for coastal cruising and landings).

Other signature facilities are Swimming Platform (extending from Deck 2 aft-starboard), Library (bow-located reading lounge on Deck 4), two Boutique Shops (Decks 2-3 aft), Hospital (Deck 2 forward - Infirmary with doctor and nurse on 24-hour duty), Bar Lounge (Deck 4 midship, with a Steinway grand piano), Dining Room Restaurant (Deck 3 aft, with adjacent Galley/Kitchen) and Lido Restaurant (bar and bistro on Deck 4 aft). Both dining venues feature panoramic 270-degree views.

Onboard dining includes 4-course dinner menus and fresh-made gourmet dishes with mainly locally sourced ingredients and fresh fish. Food and service are exceptional. Weather permitting, al fresco dining (meals served on deck) is also offered.

Dinners are with a fixed menu and waiter-served in the Dining Room. Menus are based on European cuisine but could be tempered depending on passengers' nationalities. Each day on Promenade Deck is provided complimentary Afternoon Tea service with fresh-made snacks, including waffles with ice cream, cakes, made-to-order crepes.

Complimentary wine (by the glass) is offered at all meals.

Sea Cloud Spirit cruise deals are inclusive of onboard gratuities, port fees, accommodation and all meals, welcome gifts (bottle of champagne), Gala Dinner (5-course/once per cruise), two Cocktail Parties with champagne (Welcome, Farewell), unlimited soft drinks and juices, wines and beers by the glass (during lunches and dinners), premium-brand teas and coffees, bottled water (also on land tours), fresh fruits (in cabins/replenished daily), laundry service (free only for categories A-B-C), tour guide and lecturer.

Itineraries

Sea Cloud Spirit's itinerary program and schedule were announced in late-June 2019.

Inaugural cruise program (2021)

The yacht's inaugural season (August through December 2020) was a Caribbean deployment and featured a new destination - the USVI (Virgin Islands). Bookings on Sea Cloud Spirit cruises opened on January 17, 2020.

However, due to the Coronavirus crisis, the ship's inauguration was postponed for 2021 (first for April then for September). The original inaugural itineraries (2020/canceled) included:

• (August 29-September 11) "Maiden Voyage" from Lisbon to Civitavecchia-Rome
• (Sept 28-Oct 8) "Viewing of the Classic Regatta" from Civitavecchia-Rome to Villefranche-sur-Mer (Nice)
• (Sept 18-22) roundtrip from Naples
• (Oct 8-12) roundtrip from Nice
• (Nov 5-9) roundtrip from Las Palmas (Gran Canaria)
• (Nov 9 - 24) "Transatlantic Sailing" / 14-day repositioning cruise from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean (Las Palmas to Philipsburg-St Maarten Island )

The boat's Caribbean season (with the new USVI call port) offered 3 itineraries/departures - Nov 24 - Dec 4, Dec 4-13, and Dec 13-20.

The Maiden Voyage in 2021 was first scheduled for April 22nd, leaving from Palma de Mallorca (Balearic Spain) right after the naming ceremony. The 10-day itinerary (themed "Tour of Spain") was a roundtrip from Palma to Barcelona , Tarragona (Costa Daurada) , and Valencia .

Later, the Inaugural Cruise was rescheduled for June 2, 2021. The 10-day itinerary (leaving roundtrip out of Civitavecchia-Rome) had as call ports Livorno (overnight), Portoferraio (Elba Island) , Olbia (Sardinia Island) , Trapani (Sicily Island) , Palermo (Sicily) , Salerno and Naples . Inaugural Cruise prices (in EUR) were as follows: 12255 (Owner Suite), 10775 (Junior Suite), 9175 (Deluxe Lido), 8145 (Deluxe), 7125 (Superior), 8745 (Superior Single).

In May 2021 was confirmed Maiden Voyage's final date - September 14th (booking code SCS-C21001). The 10-night itinerary (roundtrip from Civitavecchia) included only Italian ports - Livorno (Sept 15-16/overnight), Portoferraio (Elba Island), Olbia (Sardinia Island), Trapani (Sicily), Palermo (Sicily), Salerno and Naples . Prices ranged between EUR 7125 (Superior cabin) and EUR 12255 (Owner Suite).

Itineraries 2021-2022

For winter season 2021-2022 (November through April), the boat was deployed in the Canaries. Winter 2022-2023 season was planned to be in the Caribbean and Central America, with some departures from Florida to The Bahamas.

On February 21, 2023, Sea Cloud Cruises debuted a Florida-Bahamas route with Sea Cloud Spirit homeported in Miami (Florida USA) . The company announced plans for ex-Miami mini-seasons each year (in February and March) when Sea Cloud Spirit will operate roundtrips to The Bahamas' Eleuthera Island (popular for the Princess Cays resort) and Exuma Islands .

Itineraries 2023-2024

Sea Cloud Spirit's 2023-2024 program (November-April) was based on voyages in the Caribbean, Central-South America and Europe/Canary Islands 

(November-December 2023) In the Caribbean, the sailship operated a 7-day itinerary (roundtrip from Philipsburg St Maarten ) visiting Jost van Dyke Island BVI, San Juan (Puerto Rico), St John Island (USVI), Gustavia St Barthelemy Island. An 8-night itinerary (also St Maarten roundtrip/Dec 2023) visits Terre-de-Haut (Guadeloupe), Soufriere (St Lucia), Chatham Bay (Union Island, St Vincent & the Grenadines), Port Elizabeth (Bequia, Grenadines), Cabrits (Dominica).

(January-February 2024) In South America was scheduled an 11-night itinerary (from Puntarenas Costa Rica to Panama City) with call ports in Costa Rica (Quepos, Golfito) and Panama (Coiba NP).

(March-April 2024) In Spain's Canary Islands, the ship had scheduled a 10-night itinerary (roundtrip from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria ) with call ports on the islands of Tenerife (Los Cristianos), La Gomera (San Sebastian) and La Palma (Santa Cruz).

Itineraries 2025

For 2025, Sea Cloud Spirit's Caribbean schedule lists four new itineraries based on homeporting in San Juan Puerto Rico .

Starting in January (2025), the ship operates roundtrips from San Huan, with overnight stays at St Barthelemy Island (Gustavia), and BVI's Virgin Gorda Island and Norman Island.

The new Puerto Rico homeporting program starts with a 6-night relocation voyage from Philipsburg (St Maarten) to San Juan. The itinerary (Jan 4-10) visits Virgin Gorda Island BVI, St Barths (Gustavia), Norman Island BVI.

Two 7-night roundtrips from San Juan (Jan 10-17, and Jan 17-24) visits Virgin Gorda, Norman Island, St Barths, St John's (Antigua), St John USVI. The program ends with an 8-night relocation voyage (San Juan to Phillipsburg/itinerary Jan 24-Feb 1) visiting St John USVI, Norman Island, Virgin Gorda, St John's Antigua, Nevis Island (Charlestown), St Barths, and Phillipsburg (St Maarten).

Photos of Sea Cloud Spirit

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Other Sea Cloud Cruises cruise ships

• Sea Cloud 2

Sea Cloud Spirit Wiki

The 5-deck superyacht Sea Cloud Spirit has white steel hull, aluminium superstructure, 28 sails (total size ~44100 ft2 / 4100 m2). Main mast's height/air draught is 189 ft (58 m). Max draft is 6 m (19 ft). In addition to the sails, the cruise ship is equipped with diesel-electric powerplant with two MAN-Siemens marine engines running on LS-MGO (low-sulfur marine gasoil). Among the subcontractors are Partnership Design (Boughton UK-based graphic design agency - interior fittings), Bohnhoff GmbH (Halstenbek Germany-based thermal cooking equipment producer - ship's galleys, pantries and bars) and Winteb (Winschoten Holland-based aluminum air vent head producer).

The yacht has 6 service boats - 2x lifeboats (full-capacity) and 4x Zodiac boats (with launching platforms). Zodiacs are large-capacity motorized boats used for coastal exploration tours, landings and passenger disembarkation in anchorage-only ports.

On October 27, 2019, was the vessel's launch (float-out from drydock) at the shipbuilding yard (MetalShips & Docks SAU) in Vigo Spain .

On July 31, 2020, was installed the first (aft) mast (54-m / 177-ft high). The installation was conducted by workers from the shipbuilding company Choren Design & Consulting ( Gdansk, Poland ). All the 3 masts were loaded on the ship with fully equipped rigging (shrouds and stays).

The ship's inaugural cruise was planned for August 29, 2020. However, due to the global health crisis (also resulting in Metalships Shipyard's temporary closure), the vessel's delivery was delayed. When in early-May shipyard operations resumed (in reduced worker capacity), the project-involved European subcontractors didn't return due to the EU's intercountry travel restrictions. For example, the ship's masts (Poland-manufactured) arrived but were not installed, as well as the interior fittings (carried out, but not completed).

The delayed delivery also resulted in major cruise itinerary program changes. The scheduled Caribbean deployment (together with the Translatlantic crossing in November 2020) was canceled and the ship remained through April 2021 in the Canary Islands (Spain).

The ship's first Captain (Master) is Gerald Schober (1966-born). Traditionally for Sea Cloud Cruises, Sea Cloud Spirit is operated with "open bridge" policy that allows passengers to visit the Wheelhouse, communicate with the Captain (officers on duty).

Ship christening 2021

On August 18, 2021, was announced that Sea Cloud Spirit's godmother will be Her Royal Highness Infanta Dona Elena of Spain, Duchess of Lugo (1963-born as Elena Maria Isabel Dominica de Silos de Borbon y de Grecia). HRH is the first child of King Juan Carlos I of Spain (1938-born as Juan Carlos Alfonso Victor Maria de Borbon y Borbon/reign 1975-2014) and Queen Sofia of Spain (1938-born as Princess Sophia of Greece and Denmark). Infanta Elena of Spain has a younger sister - Infanta Cristina (1965-born as Cristina Federica Victoria Antonia de la Santisima Trinidad de Borbon y de Grecia) and a younger brother - Felipe VI (1968-born as Felipe Juan Pablo Alfonso de Todos los Santos de Borbon y Grecia) who is the current King of Spain (ascended the throne in June 2014).

The cruise ship's christening ceremony was held on September 3, 2021, in Port Palma de Mallorca (Majorca Island, Balearic Spain) .

• At the beginning of the boat's construction, Javier Arias-Camison (shipping lawyer, Sea Cloud Cruises' legal representative) made a promise to bring on foot two champagne bottles to Santiago de Compostela (Galicia) and bless them there.
• The Champagne for the naming ceremony has been blessed following a 5-day pilgrimage (~120 km / 75 mi) to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.
• One of the bottles was traditionally crashed on the hull (during the ceremony). During the Maiden Voyage (September 14 -24, 2021, from Civitavecchia-Rome ), the other bottle was auctioned off for charity.

Unfortunately, as the aristocratic Godmother was unable to participate, her role was taken by Inigo Echenique Gordillo's wife Gabriela Toran. Inigo Echenique is a Spanish luxury yacht designer (1957-born).

Sea Cloud Hussar cruise itineraries 2010-2011

Sea Cloud Hussar's cruise program for 2010-2011 was based mainly on roundtrips in Europe (Mediterranean) and Asia (Red Sea). The inaugural cruise was scheduled for June 6 (2010) roundtrip from Hamburg to Norway. Next, are listed all pre-scheduled for 2010-2011 Sea Cloud Cruises dates for the new Hussar ship.

• June 6 - July 8 (7-day maiden voyage "Southern Norway) roundtrip from Hamburg to Flekkefjord, Risor, Oslo, List auf Sylt (Germany, overnight)
• July 8-11 (3-day "North Sea") roundtrip from Hamburg to List auf Sylt (Sylt Island, overnight)
• July 11-15 (4-day "North Sea") from Hamburg to Edinburgh, visiting Dundee and Leith-Edinburgh
• July 24 - August 3 (10-day "Ireland and southern England") from Dublin to Bilbao, visiting Ireland (Waterford), England (Fowey) and France (Lorient, Le Palais / Belle-Ile Island, and Pauillac overnight). This was a "golf cruise" visiting 4 golf courses - Mount Juliet Golf Club (Waterford), Carlyon Bay Golf Course (Fowey), Golf de Saint-Laurent (Lorient) and Golf du Medoc (Pauillac).
• August 3-12 (9-day "Art and Cuisine around the Iberian Peninsula") from Bilbao to Malaga, visiting La Coruna, Cies Islands (Spain), Leixoes-Porto, Lisbon (overnight), Cadiz
• August 12-19 (7-day premiere voyage "Western Mediterranean") from Malaga to Nice, visiting Ibiza, Mahon (Menorca Island), Ajaccio (Corsica Island), Saint-Tropez
• August 19-26 (7-day premiere voyage "Western Mediterranean") from Nice to Malta, visiting the islands Corsica (Calvi, Bonifacio), Sicily (Palermo), Lipari, Sicily (Syracuse) and Malta (Valletta)
• August 26 - September 3 (8-day premiere voyage "Adriatic") from Malta to Venice, visiting Otranto, Montenegro (Kotor overnight), Croatia (Dubrovnik overnight, Sibenik) and Slovenia (Piran)
• September 3-10, 10-17, 17-24 (7-day premiere voyage "Adriatic") roundtrips from Venice to Zadar, Sibenik, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Korcula, Hvar
• September 24 - October 5 (11-day premiere voyage "Adriatic") from Venice to Piraeus-Athens, visiting Croatia (Sibenik, Trogir, Korcula, Dubrovnik), Kotor, Corfu, Monemvasia, Nauplion
• October 5-12, Oct 28 - Nov 4 (7-day premiere voyage "Eastern Mediterranean") roundtrip from Piraeus-Athens to Greece and Turkey, visiting Mykonos (overnight), Rhodes, Bodrum, Kusadasi, Patmos
• October 12-20, Nov 4-12 (8-day premiere voyage "Eastern Mediterranean") from Athens to Larnaca (Cyprus), visiting Crete (Heraklion), Rhodes, Turkey (Fethiye), Syria (Tartus, Latakia)
• October 20-28 (8-day premiere voyage "Eastern Mediterranean") from Larnaca to Piraeus-Athens, visiting Tartus, Latakia, Fethiye, Rhodes, Heraklion
• November 12-22 (10-day premiere voyage "Red Sea") from Larnaca to Aqaba (Jordan), visiting Syria (Latakia, Tartus) and Egypt - Port Said (Suez Canal transit), Ain Sukhna (overnight), Safaga, Sharm El-Sheikh
• November 22 - December 2 (10-day premiere voyage "Red Sea") from Aqaba to Hodeidah (Yemen), visiting Sharm El-Sheikh, Ain Sukhna, Safaga, Marsa Alam
• December 4-14 (10-day premiere voyage " Middle East") from Mukalla (Yemen) to Dubai (UAE), visiting Salalah (Oman), 3 sea days, Muscat (Oman), Fujairah (UAE), Bandar Abbas (Iran), Kish (Iran)

In January-March 2011, Sea Cloud Hussar was supposed to be homeported in Dubai . The 7-day Middle East cruise program included roundtrips from Dubai, visiting

• Manama (Bahrain), Doha (Qatar), Sir Bani Yas Island (UAE) and Abu Dhabi (UAE overnight) - scheduled for December 14-21, January 4-11, 18-25, February 1-8, 15-22 and March 1-8
• Musandam Peninsula (Oman, with a boat cruise to Telegraph Island), Khasab (Oman), Fujairah and Muscat (overnight) - scheduled for January 11-18, Jan 25 - Feb 1, February 8-15, Feb 22 - Mar 1, and March 8-15.

Sea Cloud Hussar's 14-day "Christmas and New Year Cruise" (Dec 21 - Jan 4) was planned as a roundtrip from Dubai to Muscat (overnight), Fujairah (Dec 25), Musandam and Khasab, Manama, Doha, Abu Dhabi (Dec 31, overnight) and Sir Bani Yas, with all 4 sea days.

Then the new ship had planned Suez Canal repositioning back to Europe.

• March 15-25 (10-day "Middle East") from Dubai to Mukalla (Yemen), visiting Iran (Kish, Bandar Abbas), Fujairah, Muscat, Salalah
• March 27 - April 6 (10-day "Red Sea") from Hodeidah (Yemen) to Aqaba (Jordan), visiting Marsa Alam, Safaga, Ain Sukhna, Sharm El-Sheikh
• April 6-16 (10-day "Red Sea and Suez Canal") from Aqaba to Piraeus-Athens, visiting Sharm El-Sheikh, Ain Sukhna, Suez Canal transit, Rhodes, Bodrum, Kusadasi, Patmos.