Few things are more luxurious than a long sailing weekend with SEA CLOUD cruises. This top-end, ultra-luxury cruise was the perfect mid-May getaway, enabling me to explore popular destinations in Spain and Portugal in SEA CLOUD’s trademark comfort and class.

From the moment I stepped on board, the warmth and friendliness of the crew stood out. With a glass of SEA CLOUD own label Pommery in hand, staff welcome us on board as we familiarise ourselves with this majestic ship. They each provided caring, warm, and unobtrusive service – unsurprisingly, given that some had more than 35 years of experience aboard the SEA CLOUD. From Jose in the cabin to Anton at the bar, the staff are all so warm, welcoming and kind. What’s more, due to the size of the ship, we were welcomed in every port. It was clear from the start that respecting the local people, their culture, and the nature in which they live is a core part of the SEA CLOUD ethos.

Sailing Sustainably

On a SEA CLOUD journey, modernity and tradition go hand in hand. We put to sea with the sails billowing out from the mast, powering the ship by capturing the brisk, invigorating ocean breeze. All SEA CLOUD ships are still expertly sailed by hand according to the rules of 19th-century seamanship.  Exceptions are only made when the weather makes sailing impossible, or when the winds blow in the opposite direction.

The commitment to wind-powered sailing is nothing new for the brand, with the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT’s sister ships also following the model of the traditional windjammer. The company was ahead of its time – sustainability was far from a significant topic in tourism in the 1980s. However, for SEA CLOUD Cruises, it remained the natural choice, because wind remains the most environmentally friendly and sustainable “fuel” for a ship. SEA CLOUD’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop at traditional, wind-powered sailing. The ships are all designed to endure the passage of time, with the flagship boat due to turn 92 this year.

There were lots of sustainable touches like glass straws used at the bar, which can be reused AND look elegant. As if that wasn’t good enough, SEA CLOUD’s sustainable ethos allowed us to sample regional cuisine made from high-quality ingredients sourced from local markets, which the chefs incorporate into the menu whenever they can.

SEA CLOUD SPIRIT

Seeing SEA CLOUD SPIRIT for the first time in Malaga was like watching a traditional windjammer sail right out of the pages of a history book, and then discovering that it has all the elegance and amenities of a modern high-end liner. The attractiveness of a classic tall ship combined with the comforts of lush balcony cabins and expanded fitness offerings will have you swooning.

In terms of technicalities, the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT is state-of-the-art and built in 2020 and can take up to 136 guests. In addition to 4,100 m² of sail area, it has two economical, environmentally friendly diesel-electric motors. There are 69 outside cabins total (22 junior and 3 owner suites with balconies) and 7 de luxe lido outside cabins with panoramic windows that can be opened. This is an intimate ship but felt large enough to move around very comfortably.

Weighing 5,431 tonnes and measuring 138 metres in length, the SPIRIT is one of the largest sailing cruise ships. It was also the first to have an elevator installed, making it increasingly accessible compared to the other SEA CLOUD ships. The SPIRIT has a 136-passenger capacity with 85 crew members on board; even in being the largest of the SEA CLOUD ships, it still has an intimate feel.

Exceptional feel at home comfort

My cabin was exceptionally comfortable. Natural light streamed in from the large windows, illuminating the spacious room and ocean-themed artwork on the walls. I would describe the room as regal, with its colourful golden accented design and varnished mahogany woodwork. The bright blue rug and rustic wood-paneled dressers add a welcome dash of character. The cabin feels like home and at the same time, feels like a room in a royal palace.

The ceiling was high, with gold-plated accent lighting, making the space seem even larger and grander. The balcony outside was also spacious, with more than enough room for a table and two chairs. I enjoyed sitting outside in the morning and listening to the gentle murmur of the waves, a steaming mug of coffee close at hand. Amenities in the bathroom are equally as luxurious with a Villeroy & Boch bath with bubble features and luxury L’Occitane en Provence toiletries too.

The cabins include several suites, with balconies and majestic views. The leading cabin is the Veranda Suite, which is followed by the Junior Veranda Suite, Grand, Deluxe, and Superior Staterooms. Lastly are the guaranteed Double Cabins, which enable guests to book the voyage at a lower rate with accommodations. Entry-level cabins on Deck 2 start at 205 square feet, and there are also two single staterooms on Deck 2 that are 140 square feet. Junior Suites on Deck 3 also boast private outdoor balconies.

On-board Offerings

I am not an avid sailor but there were many onboard. Part of the experience is watching the sails being erected. All hands on deck with the huge crew all doing their bit to get the sails going. It takes 22 sailors and deckhands around 45 minutes to raise all 28 sails. As a passenger, there is also the opportunity to help with this process and experience firsthand the art of sailing.

The SEA CLOUD SPIRIT ship offers a wealth of places to relax, socialize, and cast off your weekly worries. With its comfy lounge chairs and sunbeds, the sun deck is the place to get a tan while gentle waves and clear skies stretch out as far as the eye can see. The sun rise and sunsets are also a must. When the cool sapphire water becomes too tantalising, you can plunge into the ocean from the ship’s swim platform, armed with snorkeling equipment or a paddle board.

For those who want to get a better look at how sailing a ship looks like from the crew’s perspective, the bridge is open for most of the day. We even had the opportunity to help set the sails by shooting the ropes to clear the deck or hauling through the lines to brace the yards.

The ship includes a lounge, flooded with light thanks to its large windows and symbolising the openness cultivated on the SEA CLOUD cruises. Sea Shanties were sung by the staff on one night and it was a special moment to see the staff as one family. You can see how much the ship means to them.

Unwind in the lounge or library after a day of sunbathing, shore excursions, or working on your cardio in the fitness studio. The lounge follows a classic design, featuring sophisticated seating and a piano in the corner. Sit sipping your favorite drink from the lounge bar as piano notes tinkle in the background. I also recommend listening to one of the many informative lectures hosted there.

The library, an especially unique feature, exhibits the same classic style, along with artwork paintings for décor. All the books are in English and German, and the library also includes a fine selection of board games, perfect for playing with friends or getting to know your cruise-mates better.

Make more than one visit to the spa to take advantage of the full range of offerings, including a Finnish sauna, a multi-sensory shower, and a relaxation room. The sauna is very much German and is textile-free for most of the day but clothing, of course, is also welcome. I enjoyed unwinding in the steam bath, breathing in deeply as the hot, misty air drew all the tension out of my muscles. The beauty parlor is another highlight and will have you looking stunning for Gala dinners.

Dining 

The main indoor Restaurant on Deck 3 is a picture of elegance, with large arched windows, white tablecloths, and blue fabric-covered wooden chairs. Its warm wood panels and original oil paintings make for a classy backdrop to dinners and opulent breakfast buffets alike. Admiring art while savouring an array of fresh fruits made for an enchanting breakfast experience.

A 4-course menu and 5-course gala dinner are all included in the SEA CLOUD voyage. Chefs from renowned restaurants craft mouth-watering continental cuisine using only the freshest ingredients. The fresh fish and meats offered always exceeded my expectations, and the feature wines complemented the dishes well.

Dinner in the main dining space gives an option for four courses; there’s a starter of the day, a soup of the day, a choice of a meat, fish, and vegetarian entrée, and finally a choice of dessert or cheeses. Buffets are high quality with one evening featuring a whole roasted pig AND a giant tuna which was served in multiple ways. In fine weather, the deck is also opened for lunch and dinner to take in those views and fresh air.

The Bar

The bar is one of the focal points aboard SEA CLOUD SPIRIT. This was one of the most well-equipped bars and largest selections of drinks I have seen on a smaller cruise ship. It is rare to find such depth and quality in a bar offering for less than 150 passengers. There are a wide range of cocktails and options available including the wonderful own-label Pommery and a selection of SEA CLOUD signature cocktails. The selection of spirits is vast with something for everyone.

Anton and the team about SEA CLOUD SPIRIT have been working together for many years. Anton Campos whips up a Mescal Negroni for me in moments and is able to make great recommendations. A DJ plays in the background and everyone is dancing. Late-night snacks also make an appearance each night at the bar.

Our Excursions

For the best experience, arrive at Málaga a few hours before your journey with SEA CLOUD begins. The departure point is interesting in its own right – take a stroll through the historic centre of Málaga to admire grandiose buildings gleaming like new in defiance of time. As you leave the shoreline behind, Málaga will look like a white dab of paint shining out from the brown of the barren mountain landscape.

Explore the heritage of Cádiz on foot, one of the oldest cities in the world. Take in a variety of stunning sights, ranging from the baroque facades of Cádiz’s old neighbourhoods, the modern high-rise buildings of the new town, and the natural beauty of the Bay of Cádiz. The Cathedral was also a highlight.

Take in unique river panoramas as you sail up the Tagus River on your way to Lisbon. Those who are curious can explore one of the city’s most famous landmarks, which has been greeting visitors right on the estuary since 1521 – the Torre de Belém.

Once in Lisbon, I immersed myself in the city’s bustling heart with a tuk-tuk tour – the drivers will take you to places unreachable by bus, and tell you stories of Lisbon’s long past as they maneuver through narrow streets and bustling plazas. From winding old town alleys to hand-painted Azulejo tiles, there is plenty to see and marvel at.

The tour also stops to let you sample local delicacies, from Ginjinha, a local liquor flavored with sugar and spices, to Pastéis de Nata, a rich and delicious custard pastry.

The SEA CLOUD Fleet

Aside from the SPIRIT, SEA CLOUD’s other ships include the SEA CLOUD and the SEA CLOUD II. The SEA CLOUD offers a sporty style, built 90 years ago as a private luxury yacht. It offers a very private experience, with a design that features golden swan-shaped water taps, magnificent marble fireplaces, and French. Every detail on the SEA CLOUD radiates the glamour of a bygone era. Her elegance seems timeless, as she has retained her unconventional charm.

The SEA CLOUD II offers a unique personality, combining the amenities of a modern cruise ship with the unique atmosphere of a romantic tall ship. It’s authentic and individual, built in 2001, and clearly recognisable as the younger sister of the legendary SEA CLOUD. Despite all the maritime family resemblance, she has her own generous personality.

What a weekend aboard SEA CLOUD SPIRIT

This four-day long weekend taster cruise was so memorable, aboard such an elegant ship with world-class hospitality. The spacious sun deck is dedicated to the art of sailing while cabins combine maritime charm with comfort. SEA CLOUD is the choice for those looking for comfort, luxury and a relaxing environment with all the comforts on home too.

To find out more, visit: seacloud.com

 

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