Mediterranean expeditions aboard the Sea Cloud fleet
Medieval walled cities and crumbling hilltop castles, imposing volcanoes, and ancient Roman ruins—the treasures of the Mediterranean are seen in their full splendor when exploring aboard an elegant tall ship from the Sea Cloud fleet. Few experiences on the water rival the sheer joy of sailing on one of these traditional windjammers, where nostalgia imbues every deck and cabin, and the prevailing winds chart your course through a bygone era. Join us aboard the historic Sea Cloud or her modern counterpart, Sea Cloud II, and set off on a timeless journey, where your transportation is as intriguing as your destination.
(9) Mediterranean Itineraries
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NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged. More details.
New
Ancient Mediterranean: Exploring Greece, Croatia and Albania
Duration
8 days
Jun
Aug
Oct
From
$7,493
Top Highlights
Navigate the iconic Corinth Canal, a spectacularly scenic cut that is inaccessible to larger ships
Immerse yourself in Delphi, the center of ancient Greek civilization, once home to the famed Oracle of Delphi
Explore Dubrovnik—the pearl of the Adriatic—while strolling atop its ancient walls, trying your hand at oystering, or participating in a cooking or silk embroidery class
Experience Croatia’s stunning shades of blue and green on the forested isle of Mljet and amid the picturesque waterfalls and gem-like pools of Plitvice Lakes National Park
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dubrovnik while strolling atop the ancient walls, trying your hand at oystering, or participating in a cooking or silk embroidery class
Marvel at the medieval charms of fortified Montenegro, with options for wine tasting, hiking, or learning about olive oil production
New
Crossroads of the Ancient World: Exploring Greece and Turkey
Duration
11 days
Jul
Sep
From
$11,990
Top Highlights
Approach Greece and Turkey’s iconic coastal villages from the sea, and dive into the surrounding turquoise waters for swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding adventures
Enjoy hiking in Paros and sample the culinary delights of Naxos during a cooking class and wine tasting
Explore Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the mythical birthplace of Artemis and Apollo
New
Dubrovnik, Hvar and Zadar Aboard the Sea Cloud Fleet
Duration
9 days
May
Jun
Aug
Sep
From
$12,148
Top Highlights
Bask in the romance of tall ship sailing as you cruise the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea among picturesque isles
Discover ancient ruins, centuries-old architecture, and several UNESCO World Heritage sites that narrate the story of Croatia's past
In Pula, discover the impressive amphitheater built in the first century A.D.—the only remaining Roman amphitheater to have four side towers entirely preserved
NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged.
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
From
$8,625
Prices are per person
Highlights
Europe
Mediterranean
Mediterranean aboard National Geographic Orion
New
Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History and Cerulean Seas
Duration
8 days
NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged.
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
From
$8,625
Top Highlights
Sail the sapphire waters of Santorini's volcanic caldera, and go ashore to explore the enchanting town of Oía, with its sugar-cube buildings and world-famous sunsets
On Milos, visit the Bronze Age settlement of Phylakopi and the farm where the famed Greek sculpture of ‘Venus de Milo’ was evacuated
Swim, snorkel, kayak, or dive in the turquoise waters of the Cyclades, and take in classic Aegean sunsets from the beautiful open deck of _National Geographic Orion_
New
Mediterranean Wonders: Sicily, Greece, Sardinia, and Beyond
Duration
13 days
From
$17,757
Top Highlights
Discover an array of architectural marvels, from the Alhambra in Granada to Lisbon’s 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery and Ronda's impressive Puente Nuevo bridge
Explore six UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Granada's extraordinary Alhambra palace, the Tower of Belém in Lisbon, and Porto’s old city
Learn how cork oak is harvested in the orchards of the Algarve, and explore Galicia's estuaries with local fishermen
Sailing the Greek Isles aboard the Sea Cloud Fleet
Duration
8 days
Jun
Aug
Sep
From
$13,384
Top Highlights
Experience the Cyclades while under full sail aboard a romantic tall ship
On UNESCO World Heritage-listed Delos, the mythological birthplace of twin gods Artemis and Apollo, visit the Temple of Apollo, an important archaeological site
At Tinos, see the active pilgrimage site of Panagia Evangelistria and terraced hillsides
A legend of both her time and today, the 30-cabin Sea Cloud was built in 1931 for the heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post. The last of the private tall ships, she carries 30 sails, which are raised by hand as you venture out to sea. Settle into the banquette of the “blue lagoon,” or enjoy refreshments at the covered Lido Bar. Every detail—from the marble fireplaces to the French antiques—reflects the extravagant charms of American royalty.
Inspired by her splendid predecessor, Sea Cloud II celebrates the time-honored traditions of her fleet: the hand-raising of her sails and nightly sundowners on deck. She combines the elegance of a classic square-rigger and the spaciousness of a contemporary vessel, with each of the 44 outward-facing cabins outfitted in modernized amenities. Expansive outdoor viewing areas tempt guests to savor the romance of traveling under billowing sail.
Expedition Highlights
Sail Europe’s most storied waters on an expertly crafted itinerary, stepping ashore in captivating places from Corsica to Croatia and beyond, where the vestiges of antiquity come vibrantly to life. Discover sights both storied and secret, and gain unique perspectives from our expert guides on the threads that connect the region’s histories and cultures. Enjoy an unhurried pace under sail, with time at leisure to amble picturesque harbors and sample the many culinary delights this region has to offer.
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Highlights
Life On Board
One of the great joys of traveling aboard a traditional tall ship is witnessing the theater of her spirited crew raise and lower the sails by hand. Watch 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.
Sail the Legendary Sea Cloud
Wherever she sails, Sea Cloud is a destination and a reason to travel all in one. Experience the epitome of elegance aboard the historic Marjorie Merriweather Post sailing yacht.
Sailing the Mediterranean Aboard Sea Cloud II
Let the Mediterranean's prevailing winds chart your course through a bygone era as we sail to lesser-known sites, such as Napoleon’s home on the isle of Elba, and enjoy exclusive experiences, like a private lunch at a Sicilian castle with a riveting Hollywood story.
Traveling Under Sail with the Historic Sea Cloud Fleet
Sailing aboard a Sea Cloud ship is both a grand and effortlessly casual experience. Whether on the namesake vessel or Sea Cloud II, it's a rare chance to get immersed in old-world elegance and comfort.
Wonders of the World: Exploring 9 UNESCO Heritage Sites
On a voyage through history, certain locations and landmarks stand out as especially monumental, such as the world’s largest Buddhist temple or North America’s earliest known European structures.
Voyages through the Mediterranean offer abundant opportunities to discover local cultural traditions, including special music and dance performances curated by ethnomusicologist Jacob Edgar on select departures. Enjoy a preview of these soulful sounds. Follow Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic on Spotify to find playlists showcasing music from the Mediterranean and beyond, specially curated by Jacob Edgar.
See, do, and learn more by going with engaging experts who have been exploring this region for decades. Go with an expedition leader, naturalists, historians, and more.
Expedition Leader
Veteran expedition leaders are the orchestrators of your experience. Many have advanced degrees and have conducted research or taught for years. They have achieved expedition leader status because they possess the skills, the experience, and the depth of knowledge necessary to continually craft the best expedition possible for our guests.
Our historians will share the stories, tumults, and triumphs of the people and places we explore. Their colorful personalities and passion for history, from the minutiae to the big picture, make them engaging travel companions.
Sail with cultural commentators aboard who further illuminate local life. They are leaders in their fields, some still engaged in conducting research, who know the region intimately. Learn from them in onboard presentations, and engage with them on a one-to-one basis to learn more about their topic or backgrounds.
Every expedition aboard Sea Cloud offers an exclusive service—a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor. This naturalist is specially trained to offer assistance with camera settings, and the basics of composition and to help you become a better, more confident photographer.
On select voyages travel with a bona fide National Geographic Expert. These top pros at your side and at your service—providing insight, knowledge, and presentations as you voyage along storied coasts.
Today, we immersed ourselves in the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Anchored just off the old town, Sea Cloud II provided a stunning vantage point to admire Croatia’s dramatic coastline, where limestone cliffs meet crystalline waters, and ancient pines cling to rugged slopes. Dubrovnik’s storied past as the Republic of Ragusa came alive as we explored its UNESCO-listed walls. This maritime republic, though small, wielded remarkable influence; they abolished slavery in the 15th century, and established Europe’s first pharmacy. St. Blaise, the city’s patron saint, watched over us as we wandered the Franciscan Monastery’s serene cloister and climbed the formidable battlements, tracing the steps of medieval sentries. The afternoon brought a feast for the senses: a traditional “peka” lunch at a rustic village mill, where succulent meats and vegetables slow-cooked under embers delighted our palates. The day crescendoed with an enchanting performance by “Klapa Oštro,” their haunting harmonies echoing Dubrovnik’s enduring spirit. As the sun dipped below the Adriatic, we got ready for our farewell dinner aboard Sea Cloud II , revisiting our memories together with the screening of the guests’ slide show.
Apollo must be smiling down on us as the Cyclades have provided yet another spectacular day. Our morning started nice and early to beat the midday heat and many chose to spend the morning hiking amongst the verdant hills of Naxos. High mountain peaks on this island mean more rainfall and more vegetation can grow. While the hikers got their steps in, others chose to visit a local farm to learn all about the world-famous olive oil that this area is known for. Lifting anchor around lunchtime, we moved National Geographic Orion over to Paros where many on board chose to visit a local winery. The setting was stunning, and the wine was generously poured to the appreciation of all. Others chose to explore a local farm and learn about all the incredible artisanal produce of the area. Finishing the day with a top-notch barbeque on our back deck or a delicious meal in town, we went to bed with happy hearts tonight.
A stunning Adriatic morning greeted us as Sea Cloud II anchored just off the storied shores of Korčula. Bathed in sunshine, guests stepped ashore to explore this medieval gem — winding stone alleyways, fragrant fig trees, and sweeping coastal views. A highlight was the dramatic Moreška sword dance, a powerful display of choreography and tradition that captivated all. Back on board, a swim stop in the crystal-clear Adriatic brought refreshment and delight, complete with laughter, splashes, and a few spirited dives. The afternoon was marked by serene sailing, as Sea Cloud II caught a gentle breeze and glided past olive-dotted islands. As golden hour arrived, we gathered on deck for cocktail hour and a lighthearted recap, filled with stories and shared joy. With sails overhead and the horizon aglow, it was another unforgettable day aboard our floating home in the heart of the Adriatic Sea.
Santorini, once devastated by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC, now stands as one of Greece’s most iconic and breathtaking islands. Our day began with two experiences, with some of us hiking the caldera’s edge to the still-active volcano, Nea Kameni, where we were rewarded with panoramic views. This was followed by diving into the warm, healing thermal waters nearby. Others chose a gentler path, with a guided tour of a local farm where we sampled sun-ripened produce and shared a rustic Greek lunch under olive trees. In the afternoon, we visited the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and explored the ancient archaeological site of Akrotiri, frozen in time beneath layers of volcanic ash. We also had a chance to explore Oia, strolling its cobbled streets and admiring the whitewashed buildings with blue domes. The day concluded with a traditional Greek dinner—Greek salad, fresh seafood, Greek cheeses—accompanied by music, dancing, and the joyous crash of plates. As the sun dipped into the Aegean, casting gold across the caldera, we soaked in the magic of Santorini.
We dropped anchor in Komiža just as the sun rose, painting the sleepy fishing town in soft golden light. After a hearty breakfast, we met our local guide and set off on a leisurely walk through the narrow, winding streets. Our guide shared fascinating stories about Komiža’s rich maritime heritage and pointed out the traditional “falkuša” fishing boats, symbols of the town’s seafaring history. Our first stop was the charming Church of Our Lady of the Pirates, nestled near the water’s edge. Its legends of protection and adventure set the tone for the day. Next, we ventured into the mysterious complex of reinforced passages known as “Tito’s tunnels,” remnants of the island’s military past. Walking through the cool, echoing passageways, we imagined the island’s strategic importance during times gone by. By late afternoon we returned to the harbor, enriched by the day’s discoveries and the warm hospitality of Komiža. The blend of history, legend, and natural beauty made our visit unforgettable. The island’s unique character, rooted in both tradition and adventure, left us eager to return.
There’s nothing sacrificed by having this traditional relationship with sailing. This is the height of luxury; and the height of luxury these days, in many ways, is arguably, your ability to get away from it all.