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 explored two of the Aegean’s most storied islands, beginning with an early morning arrival at Delos, one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Guests joined our local guides for in-depth walking tours through the ancient ruins. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, Delos holds immense historical and spiritual significance. According to Greek mythology, it is the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis, making it a sacred sanctuary for over a millennium. Excavations revealed evidence of habitation as far back as the 3rd millennium BC, and by the 9th century BC, the island had become a major cult center. From 900 BC to 100 AD, Delos flourished as a cosmopolitan hub, hosting the famed Delian Festival, and served as the treasury for the Delian League under Athenian control. Guests had time to explore the Delos Museum before returning to the ship via Zodiac where Lisa Hornak hosted a photo collection session for the Members Slideshow, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, we stepped ashore in Syros, capital of the Cyclades. Walking tours of Ermoupoli revealed the island’s unexpected neoclassical grandeur, a stark contrast to the whitewashed simplicity of its neighbors. During the Greek War of Independence in 1821, Syros became a refuge for displaced Greeks, leading to its rapid rise as a major commercial and cultural center. Guests admired Ermoupoli’s 19th-century architecture, including the Apollon Theatre and Miaouli Square, and experienced the medieval charm of Ano Syros, shaped by Venetian influence. Those seeking a refreshing break took a cool dip at nearby Asteria Beach. The afternoon concluded with a special performance at the Ermoupoli Town Hall, with a surprise visit from the hotel team with cocktails and ice cream. Afterwards, guests enjoyed free time in town. The day closed with a celebration of our voyage with a Member Slideshow, captain’s farewell cocktails, and dinner. A day rich in mythology, history, and vibrant culture, Delos and Syros offered an unforgettable journey through time in the heart of the Aegean.
We woke to a spectacular sunshine-filled sky in Naxos. The island is filled with culinary delights, including world class Naxios cheese, specialty potatoes, wines, and a surprisingly unique liquor (Citron) which is only available on the island. Many of us enjoyed a visit to Eggares Olive Farm, a fourth generation, female-run olive farm and museum. Others spent time exploring the beautiful seaside town. In the afternoon, we anchored off the island of Paros where we were treated to a private tasting at Moraitis Winery, established in 1910. Some enjoyed a trip to Petra Farm, a family run, completely organic farm and vineyard, where they were able to sample the bounty of the farm while taking in breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. A stop to shop in the picturesque village of Naousa topped off a perfect day.
Our adventure began with a morning hike to the summit of the newest volcano in the Santorini complex, Nea Kameni. Then we slipped into the warm, mineral-rich waters of its caldera. Several guests visited Nomikos State Farm, where they picked up tomatoes and pistachios. Others decided to go scuba diving in the heart of this dormant volcano. After lunch on board, some of us made our way to the southern part of the island to explore the fascinating archaeological site of Akrotiri. This remarkably well-preserved Minoan city, buried in ash by the massive eruption over 3,500 years ago, revealed glimpses of a once-thriving society. We explored the charming towns perched high on the caldera’s edge. Whether wandering through narrow alleys in Fira or sipping local Assyrtiko wine with a view at Oia, Santorini offered moments of wonder at every turn. We all met for dinner at Pyrgos restaurant where we reflected on our day, enjoying the mystery and magnificence of this legendary island.
Today’s port of call was Sifnos, a small island gem in the Cyclades. The captain took us to a nice little port, Platos Gialos. Two groups, Zeus and Apollo, went on a scenic drive to medieval Kastro. This town was built on a small hill as a castle, as the word Kastro suggests. As we walked the narrow streets, we were amazed by its charm. Cats invited us to pet them, and amazing views opened around every corner. Some of us went down to a small peninsula to see the picture-perfect Church of the Seven Martyrs while others immersed themselves in the town’s atmosphere. Our next stop was Kamares, a ferry port in a beautiful bay. We were treated to a selection of the best local food Sifnos can offer on a terrace by the beach. Photographers: Linda Burback and Ante Skracic
We spent the morning exploring the Kleftiko Caves in the Greek Islands. Most of us took the opportunity to go kayaking and Zodiac cruising to explore these coastal cave systems, and many of us also went swimming in the beautiful cerulean seas along the towering limestone cliffs. This afternoon, we relocated to the port of Adamas, and the divers made their way to the village of Pollonia on northeastern Milos Island. We embarked on an exciting boat ride to Seagull Island to dive among beautiful seagrass meadows and explore the natural amphitheaters of basaltic columns, a geologist’s wildest dream! It was another action-packed day exploring the Greek Islands.
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.