Deckplan
Join us aboard the magnificent Sea Cloud II for a relaxing and informative voyage from Puglia to Athens and discover an extraordinary collection of great archaeological sites with tangible traces of the many civilisations which have at one point over the course of history called this region home including classical temples, Byzantine cities, Medieval towns and Venetian fortresses. Beyond these fascinating sites, there is also beautiful mountainous scenery and charming harbours.
We will visit some of the Ancient World’s most fascinating sites including ancient Butrint in Albania, Olympia, the principal shrine of Zeus and Hera and the site of the original Olympic Games and Epidaurus, one of the most renowned of Greece’s ancient sites. In addition to these we visit the equally interesting Byzantine town of Mystras, a Medieval ghost town set on a cliff overlooking the site of ancient Sparta. Our penultimate port of call is the town of Nafplio, one of the most beautiful towns on mainland Greece.
With a maximum of only 94 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides and, with its wealth of historic sites, dramatic scenery and the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, it will become evident why this region has inspired writers, poets and artists since the time of Homer. Whether you are interested in ancient history, Greek myths or simply the joy of travelling under sail and experiencing new places, our voyage has something for everyone.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Sea Cloud II
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The 32,000 square feet of sails are set by hand which is a truly magical sight; she really is the most exquisite of vessels.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Bari, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to Sea Cloud II and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Vlore for Apollonia, Albania.
Arrive at lunchtime in Albania and the port of Vlore. This afternoon we drive to nearby Apollonia, the ancient city of Illyria. Set on rolling hills the city reached its zenith around the 4th to 3rd centuries BC when it is believed the population numbered over 70,000. See the city council building with its surviving facade, the library, triumphal arch, theatre, Byzantine monastery and temple of Artemis.
Day 3 Sarande for Butrint.
After breakfast we will discover the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On a guided tour explore the ruins that feature the remains of many eras and cultures. From the Hellenistic period there are temples, the promenade and the 4th century BC theatre. From the Roman era are the public baths, gymnasium and fountains. From the Byzantine era we see chapels and the large Basilica of St Peter and St Paul, whilst the Venetians are represented by a watchtower and a small castle with commanding views over the Straits of Corfu. Return to Sea Cloud II for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon under sail.
Day 4 Preveza, Greece.
Our first call in Greece will be at Preveza, situated at the entrance of the Gulf of Amvrakikos. Our tour will take us to the ruins of the ancient city of Nikopolis. It was built in 31 BC by Octavian (later Emperor Augustus) to commemorate defeating Marc Antony and Cleopatra in the naval Battle of Actium. The scale of this vast site is breathtaking. We will explore the Roman and Byzantine walls, churches and theatre before also spending some time in the excellent museum. Continue on to the picture perfect town of Parga where we will have some time to explore the charming old quarter or enjoy a swim before returning to the ship for lunch. This afternoon will be at leisure to relax on board or discover the pretty yacht lined harbour town and nearby beaches.
Day 5 Katakolon for Olympia.
Spend the morning sailing to the Peloponnese arriving at the port of Katakolon, our base for our afternoon excursion to Olympia. Pastoral and lush, Olympia’s plentiful ruins are shaded by Aleppo pines and olive trees. The fame of Olympia rests upon the Olympic Games. During the celebrations that accompanied the Games, competitors, while not forgetting that they were Athenians, Spartans or from other city states, remembered that they were Greeks and regarded an Olympic victory as the highest honour. We will see the gymnasium, the stadium and the palestra or wrestling school. We will also explore the Altis, or sacred precinct of Zeus, which houses structures including the Temple of Zeus, one of the largest temples on the Greek mainland and the Archaeological Museum which houses some fine sculptures and artefacts from the site.
Day 6 Kalamata.
After a morning cruising we arrive in Kalamata at lunchtime. Our destination today is Mystras, a remarkably intact Byzantine hillside town that once housed a population of 20,000 people. Here we visit the Cathedral of Agios Dimitrios, where the two-headed eagle which is the symbol of the Palaeologos Dynasty is carved into a plaque on the floor. According to tradition, this is where Constantine XII stepped when he was crowned king. Strolling through the narrow lanes of the dead city, we will also visit the Church of Agia Sophia, the Palace of the Despots and the Monastery of Pantanassa, with its brilliant frescoes. Before returning to the vessel, refreshments will be served at the picturesque taverna located just beneath the site offering sweeping views over the local terrain.
Day 7 Monemvasia.
This is a magical place. A massive rock rises dramatically out of the sea and on top there is a fortress. However, the real attraction is the Medieval town with its narrow cobbled streets and winding stairways which lead to a warren of stone houses with walled gardens and courtyards, and the main square dominated by an old cannon and the cathedral. On an afternoon walking tour we will visit the town followed by some free time.
Day 8 Nafplio.
Looking out across the translucent water of the bay towards the Arcadian Mountains, Nafplio’s sheltered location below a rocky headland and large natural fortress crowned by a Venetian castle is perhaps unrivalled in Greece. This morning you can choose to visit either Epidaurus or Nemea. Situated on the slopes of a beautiful and wooded valley, Epidaurus was known throughout the Hellenic world for its unique medical facilities and healing treatments. Dedicated to Aesclepius, the god of healing, the city was filled with curative spas and baths. Most of the ruins of Epidaurus have been reduced to their foundations, with the exception of the astonishing theatre. Alternatively enjoy a scenic drive through the Argos Plain to Nemea, the site of a religious sanctuary which hosted the pan-Hellenic athletic games every two years from 573 BC until 271 BC. The mythical origin of the Games is sometimes ascribed to Hercules who, after his first labour in which he had to kill the Nemean lion living in the caves of Mount Tritos above the site, established the athletic games in honour of his father, Zeus. Nemea was not a town or settlement but a venue where festivities were held during the games and our tour will include the Temple of Zeus, the bath house and the stadium before spending time in the small but excellent on site museum. Nemea is also famous for its red wines and we will enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard. Return to Nafplio for a free afternoon wandering the twisting labyrinthine streets.
Day 9 Athens to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £400 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 14 to 22 June 2023 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Category E Deluxe double | £5995 | £5595 |
| Category D Deluxe double | £6295 | £5895 |
| Category C Deluxe double | £6695 | £6295 |
| Category B Junior Suite | £7095 | £6695 |
| Category A Luxury Owner's Suite | £8195 | £7795 |
| Category F Stateroom for sole use | £7195 | £6795 |
| Category E Deluxe double for sole use | £8295 | £7895 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSC2210622
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 8 nights aboard Sea Cloud II on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Sea Cloud II
Launched in 2001, Sea Cloud II is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The 32,000 square feet of sails are set by hand which is a truly magical sight; she really is the most exquisite of vessels.
- 360's
-
Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
For our voyages under sail we have chartered the magnificent Sea Cloud II. Launched in 2001, she is a stunning vessel, built along traditional lines, but offering deluxe accommodation. She combines the timeless elegance of sailing ships of the past with the highest safety standards and the luxurious comfort of modern cruise ships. The 32,000 square feet of sails are set by hand which is a truly magical sight; she really is the most exquisite of vessels.
Whilst there are many large sailing ships offering passages around the world there are few, if any, that can compare in terms of luxury to Sea Cloud II. Standing on the dock and looking up at the ship you cannot help but be amazed by the sheer majesty of the vessel.
Despite the luxurious setting, casual clothing is appropriate and the atmosphere on board is friendly and generally informal. Service is personal, and the crew of 65 quickly acquaint themselves with passengers and the officers on the bridge are also available to answer questions; manoeuvres permitting. After all, the Sea Cloud II is not only a cruise ship, but a private yacht as well.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 94
Length: 117 metres
Width: 16 metres
Registered: Malta
Crew/Staff: 65
Year built: 2001
Year refurbished: 2011
Language: English and German
Gross Tonnage: 3849 tonnesADAPTORS
A limited number of adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be obtained from the Reception Desk, located on Promenade Deck mid-ship. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All cabins feature individual temperature controls. In order to keep the air conditioning system working efficiently, please keep doors closed when in use.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements in English can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
BEAUTY TREATMENTS
Some beauty treatments and massages are available on board and appointments can be made at the Reception Desk. Fees for all treatments are available at Reception and will be charged to your onboard account.
CABINS
The Promenade Deck holds 16 junior suites and two deluxe outer cabins which all feature panoramic windows. There are two luxury owner's suites on the Lido Deck which also feature panoramic windows. Exuding a more maritime appeal, the 27 deluxe outer cabins on the Cabin Deck have traditional portholes. Three of these cabins are fitted with an upper and lower bunk - as was customary on traditional windjammers. And, of course, all the cabins have small sitting areas, a bright ambience and plenty of space for all your personal belongings.
No matter which cabin you choose, the cabin service will provide everything you need. Your pretty maritime home is tidied twice a day, the fruit bowl is refilled, and the daily programme is left out for you to read.
All beds in the cabins are movable with the exception of cabins: 401 & 402, 301 & 302 and 218–223 (Category F cabins have one upper and one lower single bed). The standard bed configuration shows all beds made up side by side with individual mattresses and box springs, which have the ability to be separated into twin beds.
Your cabin is equipped with a TV with integrated video or DVD player, a direct-dial telephone, a radio and an electronic safe. In addition, each cabin has a selection of non-alcoholic drinks which are available free of charge. There is selection of quality toiletries in the bathroom. You will also find a bathrobe, slippers and a powerful hairdryer in your cabin. All of the cabins have a shower only whereas the junior suites have a bath only and the luxury owner’s suites benefit from a bath and shower.
COMMUNICATIONS
If you wish to contact the ship please call + 49 172 4367680. This is a German number so calls to this number are charged at an international rate. There is a phone in your cabin, which has access to an outside line. Outgoing call costs will be advised on board. You can make cabin-to-cabin calls free of charge (see section on Telephone Calls). You can contact the ship by email at seacloud2@seacloud.com - please indicate passenger name and cabin number as the subject.
A laptop is available for use on board in the library. You can use this laptop or your own laptop to connect to the internet (Wi-Fi) using the access code, however please note that there is a charge for this. The code can be obtained from reception or the purser.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served in the Restaurant. In the restaurant you will find tables for couples and groups of four, six and eight. The Lido Deck is often an inviting place to have lunch or an evening barbecue out in the open air. No matter whether you are sitting inside or outside, you can all enjoy this feast for the senses together in the same sitting and since you are dining on a tall ship with the character of a private yacht, you are free to choose your place and company at the table. Onboard culinary creations are sure to impress even the most discerning of connoisseurs and it is easy to see why Sea Cloud II was chosen to join the exclusive Chaîne des Rôtisseurs group.
DISABLED FACILITIES
There is no lift and the ship does not have facilities for disabled or wheelchair dependent passengers. Additionally, most shore excursions involve some walking and some excursions are walking tours only. There is no chair lift on board.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director will provide you with detailed disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable). If you should have any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Cruise Director as soon as possible after embarkation.
DRESS CODE ON BOARD
You may dress however you feel comfortable, whether it be casual, summery or smart, it is up to you. Only at the traditional Captain’s Dinner do we recommend more formal attire. Non-slip footwear is essential.
ELECTRICITY
The voltage on board is 220 volts. Sockets are 2-round pin, European style. All bathrooms are equipped with a shaver socket. There are a limited number of adaptors available on board, which can be provided upon request.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event that an emergency should occur during your cruise, we ask that you remain calm and follow the instructions of the crew. Life Jackets are located in your cabin. During the safety drill you will be instructed on how to wear your life jacket. We request that as soon as you enter your cabin, you carefully read the safety instructions fixed on the inside of your suite door.
GOING ASHORE
Guests should wait in public areas or in their suite until an announcement is made with instructions to disembark. Sailing times for each port are listed in the Daily Programme. Please note sailing times and ensure that you return back to the vessel at least 30 minutes prior to departure. A valid photo ID and your white Ship ID Card must always be carried ashore. In some ports a passport or port landing card must be carried when going ashore. This will be announced if required. If the ship is in a remote area and you hear a continuous blast of the ship’s horn then please return immediately to the landing site. When leaving the ship at any time while in port always ensure you have checked IN/OUT at the gangway.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at the entrance to the restaurant. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
Laundry service is available onboard. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your cabin. Please fill in the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of dirty laundry on your bed. There are no public launderette or ironing facilities on board. In the interest of safety we ask that you do not use an electric iron in your suite. An ironing service is available at reasonable cost. Dry cleaning facilities are not available on board.
In the interest of the environment, towels will not be automatically changed every day. We ask that you put used towels on the bathroom floor if you wish them to be changed for fresh towels. Towels left hanging on the towel rack will not be changed.
LIFT
There is no lift on board.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en-route.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
The hospital is located on the Cabin Deck and is staffed by the ship’s doctor. Daily surgery times can be found in the daily programme. The doctor can be reached at all times in case of emergency. Medicines and seasickness pills are available in limited quantities. As there are no lifts, only staircases, please ensure that you are fit and healthy for the cruise. However, if you do feel unsteady, please let us know. Special care requirements must be arranged in advance with the shipping company. To arrange an appointment with the ship’s doctor please contact the Reception. Seasickness tablets are available from Reception, and should be taken at least one hour prior to departure.
MINI BAR
For your convenience a Mini Bar facility has been set up in your cabin with soft drinks free of charge (replenished daily).
NEWS
News channels are available on your cabin TV and in addition daily news bulletins can be found at the Library.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT
All passengers will have their own “ship account” which allows you to sign a chit for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of the cruise. If you are sharing a cabin with a friend and would like separate bills, please inform Reception. Prices on board are shown and charged in Euro. Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express) • Cash (Euros or US Dollars) • Travellers’ Cheques (US Dollars or Euros)
PASSPORTS
All passports are collected by the Purser upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities at each port of call and are returned at the end of the cruise.
PUBLIC AREAS
Library: Choose from our selection of German and English-language books, videos and board games. Please ensure that you return them once you have finished with them.
The Lounge: Daily Briefings by the Cruise Director are given in the Lounge. The Lounge is located on the Lido Deck and is always open. Self-service coffee, tea, soft drinks and water are available all day. Informative Talks from the Guest Speaker are also given here.
Fitness and Sport: Fitness enthusiasts can use the 100-metre long lido deck as their running/walking circuit while taking in all the different views which you can expect on board a tall ship. For others, the morning exercise sessions are just the way to start a new day. In the smart fitness studio, you will find dumbbells, bikes, treadmills and step machines for more focused workouts, and the adjoining sauna area will enhance your general well-being.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in at Reception.
SAFE
In the closet of your cabin is an electronic safe which can be programmed with a personal code. Should you require any assistance, please contact reception.
SAFETY DRILL & SAFETY
International Maritime Law requires a lifeboat safety drill to take place. This will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill, all ships services will be suspended. Your assigned lifeboat station, location of your life jacket and the signal for lifeboat and fire drills are clearly explained on the emergency card posted on the back of your suite’s door. Life jackets are located in your cabin. During the safety drill you will be shown how to wear the lifejacket. It is essential that you take certain safety precautions while on board. Walk, never run and be especially careful on wet and slippery decks. Ladies are advised to wear low heeled shoes especially on deck. Footwear should be worn at all times. Hold on to the handrails in passageways and stairways.
SHIP’S ID CARD
These personal ID cards with essential information are issued to each guest during embarkation. Please ensure you check in and out at gangway so that we can ensure you are on board prior to sailing.
SMOKING POLICY
Sea Cloud II offers a smoke-free cruise environment. Smoking is not permitted inside the ship. Smoking is permitted only on the outer decks outside of meal times. We kindly request that smokers take the comfort of other passengers into consideration. Smoking is prohibited on the Blue Lagoon deck and covered areas of the Spanker and Lido deck at all times.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Calls to other cabins can be made free of charge by dialling the cabin number. You can make an external satellite telephone call from your cabin. Lift the handset and press 0. Enter the country code then city code without zero (0) at the beginning followed by the phone number and then pound key. Example for UK: 00 44 (0) phone number. Costs are available from Reception and charges are automatically billed to your on board account.
TELEVISION
All suites are equipped with a television with a built-in DVD player. DVD’s are available to borrow from the library.
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Lido Bar – 660 Reception – 700 (calls are automatically transferred after 23:00 hours to the bridge) Restaurant – 650 Suite Steward/ess – please dial 700 for reception and they will inform the Cabin Steward/ess on duty accordingly In Case of Emergency – 911 Hospital – 690 (only reachable during Hospital hours, Reception can contact Doctor at any time)
TOILETRIES
All cabins are supplied with following complimentary amenities: • Shower gel • Hair shampoo • Hair conditioner • Body lotion • Soap • Shower caps • Make-up remover • Nail file • Shoe polish • Tissues
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
VISITING THE BRIDGE
The bridge area can be visited during the day and/or at specified times subject to the captain’s approval. The bridge is closed during manoeuvring operations and night cruising.
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested through the Reception Desk.
WATER
Water from the taps in your cabin is safe to drink.
ZODIAC OR LOCAL BOATS TO TENDER ASHORE
Some destinations may require the use of the ships Zodiacs or local tender boats to go ashore. Guests will be advised where and when to meet the Zodiac or local tender boat to go ashore. Please ensure that your hands are free at all times and accept the assistance given by the crew on board Sea Cloud II when boarding tenders / Zodiacs. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given.
Please Note:
These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.3 April 2019
-
Videos
Videos
-
Deck plans
-
Deckplan
-
Travelling with You
-
Dr David Price-Williams
David Price-Williams has a first degree from the University of Wales in Ancient Near Eastern languages with a subsidiary in Attic and Koine Greek. His postgraduate work and his doctorate, from the University of London, is in Near Eastern archaeology. His first overseas archaeological field work in the eastern Mediterranean was in 1969 as a field surveyor at the classical site of Knidos in Turkey. He then worked for the Smithsonian Institution as an archaeological field surveyor on excavations in the Near East before directing his own field research in the same area through the early 1970s.
David has just retired after almost forty years lecturing on the Archaeology of Western Asia (Eastern Mediterranean) at the Institute of Archaeology for the University of London Extra Mural Department. He is the author and co-author of numerous academic papers on the area and several books. David has designed and lectured on many tours to Greece, Turkey and the Near East and is very familiar with the archaeological sites of Turkey. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, an elected life member of the Society for Old Testament Studies as well as the Southern African Quaternary Research Association.
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000