Sailing The Western Mediterranean Aboard Sea Cloud

Join the expedition leader for a play-by-play description of the crew in the rigging and the action of the setting of square sails, staysails and jibs as the ship shows her full glory. Bask in the comfort and intrigue of this legendary and historic square-rigger—enjoy delicious meals, complimentary drinks and talks by the expedition staff while sailing toward Sardinia.

Dock in Sardinia’s capital of Cagliari on the south end of the island, dominated by its hilltop medieval Castello. In the morning, drive inland to the archaeological centerpiece of Su Nuraxi in Barumini, which is the most well-preserved of the Bronze Age nuraghi, or stone fortresses, that characterize both Sardinia and Corsica from the enigmatic civilizations that inhabited these islands over 3,000 years ago. Su Nuraxi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest and most well preserved of them all, and the morning will serve as an introduction to the history, culture and landscape of Sardinia. Return to the ship for lunch, and in the afternoon visit the impressive Roman Amphitheater in Cagliari, which is carved into the sloping limestone hill at the edge of the city. Continue to the outstanding National Archaeological Museum in the medieval Castello before taking a walking tour of the old town.

Set sail again for the full morning, then enter the large western bay of Oristano to dock for the afternoon. Visit the Archaeological Park of Santa Cristina and Nuraghe Losa before enjoying some local food and entertainment. Dinner is served on board the ship while sailing to the next destination.

Anchor this morning off the northwest medieval city of Alghero, which reveals its historic Catalan influence and is still sometimes referred to as “Barceloneta.” The attractive old town is a joy to explore on foot, as are the protective sea walls. Local guides provide a walking orientation to the old town to start the day. Next, travel to the nearby Ledà d’Ittiri estate for a wine tasting and tour. In the afternoon, take a local boat out to the dramatic Capo Caccia peninsula to visit the colorful and expansive cave of Neptune’s Grotto. Return to the ship and sail by the dramatic cliffs of Capo Caccia in the golden sunset light en route toward Corsica.

Wake up to the sunrise over the layered cliffs of Bonifacio. Enter the small and spectacular narrow harbor to dock and enjoy the day in one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful towns. Begin with a walking orientation to the Citadel, established by the powerful margraves of Tuscany in the 9th century. The rest of the morning is devoted to enjoying one of the most beautiful towns of the Mediterranean.

The rock formations of Ajaccio/Les Calanques de Piana are some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Mediterranean. Les Calanques de Piana are karst limestone rock ravines that have been shaped by wind and water erosion, and the Calanques de Piana in Corsica are deservedly designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The morning is devoted to this landscape and the delightful town of Piana, set in the midst of this disorienting labyrinth of rock formations.

The gorgeous crescent bay, with its narrow white-sand beach and the prominent Genoese citadel, has made the northwest Corsican town of Calvi a renowned summer resort destination for the last century. In the shoulder seasons it is a very pleasant town in a lovely setting to explore on foot, starting at the hilltop citadel with its ethnographic museum and medieval shops and alleys. Work your way back down to the Port de Plaisance waterfront to board the ship. This afternoon, sail north around Cap Corse.

With hopes for an overnight sail, keep the morning free to continue sailing on the northeast side of Corsica toward the port of Bastia, where the ship will dock for the afternoon. Explore Bastia, made up of the upper Terra Nova citadel and the lower working district of Terra Vecchia with its lively food and fish markets. Or, opt to drive north to explore the wild nature of Cap Corse, which is the protruding mountainous peninsula of north Corsica, before returning for an evening in Bastia.

Spend the final full day on the ship, hopefully enjoying her under full sail, reflecting on visits to the unique and extraordinary islands of Sardinia and Corsica, and sorting photos for the evening’s guest slide show of favorite photos contributed by all shipmates.

Disembark in the port of Naples this morning and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Join the expedition leader for a play-by-play description of the crew in the rigging and the action of the setting of square sails, staysails and jibs as the ship shows her full glory. Bask in the comfort and intrigue of this legendary and historic square-rigger—enjoy delicious meals, complimentary drinks and talks by the expedition staff while sailing south toward Sicily.

After Sea Cloud docks in Trapani this morning, depart on an excursion up nearby Mount Erice to the intriguing medieval town of Erice. Perched 2,460 feet above Sicily’s western coast, the panoramic views from the walled town are spectacular. Explore Erice with local guides and take time to wander. Perhaps stop in at the renowned Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, or one of the many other local favorites, before more exploration in the town of Marsala. Famous for its fortified wines, this port city also houses an excellent museum devoted to its Punic (Carthaginian) history, as well as an excavated Punic warship and a recently opened excavated Roman merchant vessel. Finish with a visit and tasting at Marsala’s most historic winery, Casa Florio, before returning to Sea Cloud in Trapani. Sail overnight to Porto Empedocle for Agrigento.

Rise this morning in hopes of steady winds and watch the crew set sail while cruising along Sicily’s southern shore. The next call is devoted to Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a collection of some of antiquity’s most magnificent Greco-Roman temples. Founded by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C., the site served as a prominent city in Magna Graecia before eventually changing hands between the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and Normans. Explore the valley’s grand row of Doric temples devoted to the likes of Zeus and Heracles. Return to the ship in Porto Empedocle and cast off for Malta.

At sunrise, enter one of the finest harbors of the Mediterranean: Valletta, Malta’s capital city, surrounded by daunting limestone fortifications that date back to the 16th century. Be out on deck with a camera as the ship makes her final approach beneath the city’s bastions, walls and towers. Malta’s glorious waterfront settings, its views, the historic cities and towns, and amazing buildings combine to make a visit here a wonderful experience.

Spend the morning touring the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Drive to the Upper Barracca Gardens, located on the highest point of the 16th-century walls that the Knights of Saint John built to protect their city. Take in the remarkable views of the Grand Harbor, Fort Ricasoli and the Three Cities—Birgu, Senglea and Bormla. Continuing through Valletta’s historic streets, tour St John’s Co-Cathedral, complete with elaborate inlaid marble tombstones and monumental artwork.

Then visit Malta’s old capital, Mdina, a walled medieval city dating from the Norman and Baroque periods, that has been inhabited for thousands of years. Walk through the city’s streets and enjoy the fantastic view from the bastions. Marvel at the impressive Mdina Cathedral and then a short drive to the Rotunda of Mosta, the fourth-largest unsupported dome in the world. During World War II, a bomb pierced the dome and landed, unexploded, in the church. Return to the ship docked in Valletta where you can wander on your own after dinner.

This morning visit Malta’s “second island,” Gozo, with a focus on the ancient megalithic temples of Ġgantija, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Older than both the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge, the giant structures of Ġgantija were built by civilizations that thrived here more than 5,000 years ago. Also visit the artfully restored medieval windmill of Ta Kola—one of the many structures built by the Order of the Knights of Malta, who ruled the Maltese islands for centuries—before returning to the ship and an afternoon cruising back to Sicily, with hopes of sailing in the afternoon winds.

Wake this morning to Siracusa, a city that once rivaled Athens in cultural and economic wealth. Explore the archaeological park, which showcases one of the world’s largest theaters of antiquity, a 15,000-seat arena hewn from bedrock, which is still in use today. Also visit the nearby limestone quarry, the cave of Dionysus’ Ear, and the Roman amphitheater before returning to Sea Cloud for lunch. This afternoon, venture to the enchanting island town of Ortygia to discover its numerous little piazzas and twisting alleys. But the main feature is the Duomo, or Cathedral, which was built from the ruins of Sicily’s ancient Temple of Athena. The history of Sicily can be told in the walls of this incredible construction.

Anchor off the port of Giardini Naxos and drive up to the intoxicatingly beautiful town of Taormina, which spills across the slopes at the foot of Mount Etna, dominating to the south. The stunning medieval town boasts the now-fashionable walk on the pedestrian Corso Umberto, lined with exquisite buildings, and ends at the Greco-Roman Theater. This unforgettable theater was built right into the cliffside, overlooking the vast sea below, in the 3rd century B.C.

From Taormina, continue to the Castello degli Schiavi, a phenomenal 18th-century privately-owned villa, for a very special private lunch. Meet members of the family that still owns the villa and explore the extensive buildings and grounds that served as the setting for many scenes in The Godfather. Return to the ship, docked in the port of Messina. Enjoy dinner on deck as the vessel follows the wake of Odysseus through the narrow Strait of Messina, the bustling waterway that separates Sicily from the boot of Italy. It’s the mythical location of Homer’s monsters Scylla and Charybdis—the rock-and-the-hard-place whirlpools through which Odysseus had to sail.

The Aeolian Islands are not only famous for the winds of the god Aeolus, but also for some of the most well-known classical volcanoes. Sail in the morning with the islands of Vulcano and Stromboli in view, anchoring for the afternoon at Lipari. Here, go ashore for a scenic drive around the perimeter of the island, with fantastic views of the other Aeolian volcanoes, before returning to the main town. Visit the small but surprising archaeological museum that has an extensive collection of Neolithic artifacts made from the local obsidian, which provided the foundation of the island’s prosperity during the Greco-Roman era. This evening, enjoy dinner on deck as the ship cruises the 25 miles to Stromboli—and with a little luck, see some of the pyrotechnics of this active volcano, a perfect way to end such an adventurous voyage.

After such an action-packed voyage, take a full day for sailing, reflection and relaxation. Join the expedition staff for talks on the Lido Deck, as the captain takes advantage of the prevailing wind for optimal sailing. On board there is time to catch up on journals, review photos, ask questions, sample a collection of Sicilian wines and to simply enjoy the thrill of an extended sail on this historic square-rigged tall ship. This evening, celebrate the voyage at the captain’s farewell cocktail party and dinner at sunset.

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for flights home.

This morning visit Malta’s “second island,” Gozo, with a focus on the ancient megalithic temples of Ġgantija, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Older than both the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge, the giant structures of Ġgantija were built by civilizations that thrived here more than 5,000 years ago. Also visit the artfully restored medieval windmill of Ta Kola—one of the many structures built by the Order of the Knights of Malta, who ruled the Maltese islands for centuries—before returning to the ship and an afternoon cruising back to Sicily, with hopes of sailing in the afternoon winds.

Join the expedition leader for a play-by-play description of the crew in the rigging and the action of the setting of square sails, staysails and jibs as the ship shows her full glory. Bask in the comfort and intrigue of this legendary and historic square-rigger—enjoy delicious meals, complimentary drinks and talks by the expedition staff while sailing south toward Sicily.

After Sea Cloud docks in Trapani this morning, depart on an excursion up nearby Mount Erice to the intriguing medieval town of Erice. Perched 2,460 feet above Sicily’s western coast, the panoramic views from the walled town are spectacular. Explore Erice with local guides and take time to wander. Perhaps stop in at the renowned Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, or one of the many other local favorites, before more exploration in the town of Marsala. Famous for its fortified wines, this port city also houses an excellent museum devoted to its Punic (Carthaginian) history, as well as an excavated Punic warship and a recently opened excavated Roman merchant vessel. Finish with a visit and tasting at Marsala’s most historic winery, Casa Florio, before returning to Sea Cloud in Trapani. Sail overnight to Porto Empedocle for Agrigento.

The next call is devoted to Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a collection of some of antiquity’s most magnificent Greco-Roman temples. Founded by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C., the site served as a prominent city in Magna Graecia before eventually changing hands between the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and Normans. Explore the valley’s grand row of Doric temples devoted to the likes of Zeus and Heracles. Return to the ship and cast off for a relaxing afternoon under sail.

Grab your favorite deck chair, indulge in a good book and listen to the ship part the surf while sailing along Sicily’s southern coast. Weather permitting, stand on deck and watch the orchestrated frenzy of crew members go aloft in the web of Sea Cloud’s riggings to handset 30 sails. Or, attend a presentation from the onboard historian or cultural expert about the region’s rich history.

Wake this morning to Siracusa, a city that once rivaled Athens in cultural and economic wealth. Explore the archaeological park, which showcases one of the world’s largest theaters of antiquity, a 15,000-seat arena hewn from bedrock, which is still in use today. Also visit the nearby limestone quarry, the cave of Dionysus’ Ear, and the Roman amphitheater before returning to Sea Cloud for lunch. This afternoon, venture to the enchanting island town of Ortygia to discover its numerous little piazzas and twisting alleys. But the main feature is the Duomo, or Cathedral, which was built from the ruins of Sicily’s ancient Temple of Athena. The history of Sicily can be told in the walls of this incredible construction.

Anchor off the port of Giardini Naxos and drive up to the intoxicatingly beautiful town of Taormina, which spills across the slopes at the foot of Mount Etna, dominating to the south. The stunning medieval town boasts the now-fashionable walk on the pedestrian Corso Umberto, lined with exquisite buildings, and ends at the Greco-Roman Theater. This unforgettable theater was built right into the cliffside, overlooking the vast sea below, in the 3rd century B.C.

From Taormina, continue to the Castello degli Schiavi, a phenomenal 18th-century privately-owned villa, for a very special private lunch. Meet members of the family that still owns the villa and explore the extensive buildings and grounds that served as the setting for many scenes in The Godfather. Return to the ship, docked in the port of Messina. Enjoy dinner on deck as the vessel follows the wake of Odysseus through the narrow Strait of Messina, the bustling waterway that separates Sicily from the boot of Italy. It’s the mythical location of Homer’s monsters Scylla and Charybdis—the rock-and-the-hard-place whirlpools through which Odysseus had to sail.

The Aeolian Islands are not only famous for the winds of the god Aeolus, but also for some of the most well-known classical volcanoes. Sail in the morning with the islands of Vulcano and Stromboli in view, anchoring for the afternoon at Lipari. Here, go ashore for a scenic drive around the perimeter of the island, with fantastic views of the other Aeolian volcanoes, before returning to the main town. Visit the small but surprising archaeological museum that has an extensive collection of Neolithic artifacts made from the local obsidian, which provided the foundation of the island’s prosperity during the Greco-Roman era. This evening, enjoy dinner on deck as the ship cruises the 25 miles to Stromboli—and with a little luck, see some of the pyrotechnics of this active volcano.

After such an action-packed voyage, take a full day for sailing, reflection and relaxation. Join the expedition staff for talks on the Lido Deck, as the captain takes advantage of the prevailing wind for optimal sailing. Aboard Sea Cloud there will be time to catch up on journals, photo reviews, questions, sample a collection of Sicilian wines, and to simply enjoy the thrill of an extended sail on this historic square-rigged tall ship. This evening, celebrate your voyage with the captain’s farewell cocktail party and dinner at sunset.

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for flights home.