The Authentic Cruise Company

Itinerary

Day 1: Venice
Day 2: Ravenna
Day 4: Hvar Island
Day 4: Trogir
Day 5: Dubrovnik
Day 7: Monopoli
Day 8: Otranto
Day 10: Taormina
Day 11: Catania
Day 1: Venice

Venice is a city unlike any other. No matter how often you’ve seen it in photos and films, the real thing is more dreamlike than you could imagine. With canals where streets should be, water shimmers everywhere. The fabulous palaces and churches reflect centuries of history in what was a wealthy trading center between Europe and the Orient. Getting lost in the narrow alleyways is a quintessential part of exploring Venice, but at some point you’ll almost surely end up in Piazza San Marco, where tourists and locals congregate for a coffee or an aperitif.

Day 2: Ravenna

A small, quiet, well-heeled city, Ravenna has brick palaces, cobblestone streets, magnificent monuments, and spectacular Byzantine mosaics. The high point in its civic history occurred in the 5th century, when Pope Honorious moved his court here from Rome. Gothic kings Odoacer and Theodoric ruled the city until it was conquered by the Byzantines in AD 540. Ravenna later fell under the sway of Venice, and then, inevitably, the Papal States.Because Ravenna spent much of its past looking east, its greatest art treasures show that Byzantine influence. Churches and tombs with the most unassuming exteriors contain within them walls covered with sumptuous mosaics. These beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics put great emphasis on nature, which you can see in the delicate rendering of sky, earth, and animals. Outside Ravenna, the town of Classe hides even more mosaic gems.

Day 4: Hvar Island

The Croatian island of Hvar bills itself as the “sunniest island in the Adriatic.” Not only does it have the figures to back up this claim—an annual average of 2,724 hours of sunshine—but it also makes visitors a sporting proposition, offering them a money-back guarantee if there are seven consecutive days of snow (snow has been known to fall here; the last time being February 2012).

Day 4: Trogir
Day 5: Dubrovnik

Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world’s most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost

Day 7: Monopoli
Day 8: Otranto

Located right in the heel of the Italian boot, Otranto’s scenic landscape often plays the protagonist in displaying the beauty of Puglia, Italy’s easternmost region. Facing the Adriatic sea, the seducing weather and pristine waters have made it a popular destination where on a clear day, wanderers can see the coast of Albania. Like much of Italy, the city boasts a rich and mixed history. Once a Greek and Roman port, it was later occupied by the Byzantines, the Normans and the Spanish before the Ottoman invaded in during their Jihad to conquer Europe. Remains of forts are still visible and are a living testimonial of the town’s rich history along with Otranto’s cathedral, which still encloses today the relics of martyrs who refused to convert to Islam.

Day 10: Taormina

The medieval cliff-hanging town of Taormina is overrun with tourists, yet its natural beauty is still hard to dispute. The view of the sea and Mt. Etna from its jagged cactus-covered cliffs is as close to perfection as a panorama can get—especially on clear days, when the snowcapped volcano’s white puffs of smoke rise against the blue sky. Writers have extolled Taormina’s beauty almost since it was founded in the 6th century BC by Greeks from nearby Naxos; Goethe and D. H. Lawrence were among its well-known enthusiasts. The town’s boutique-lined main streets get old pretty quickly, but the many hiking paths that wind through the beautiful hills surrounding Taormina promise a timeless alternative. A trip up to stunning Castelmola (whether on foot or by car) should also be on your itinerary.

Day 11: Catania

Catania is an ancient port city on Sicily’s east coast. It sits at the foot of Mt. Etna, an active volcano with trails leading up to the summit. The city’s wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, features the whimsical Fontana dell’Elefante statue and richly decorated Catania Cathedral. In the southwest corner of the square, La Pescheria weekday fish market is a rowdy spectacle surrounded by seafood restaurants.

Suites with Balcony (Cat. A)
Junior Suites with Balcony (Cat. B)
De Luxe Lido Cabins, Outside (Cat. C)
De Luxe Cabins, Outside (Cat. D)
Superior Cabins, Outside (Cat. E)
Superior Single Cabins, Outside (Cat. F)
Guarantee Double
Suites with Balcony (Cat. A)

The SEA CLOUD SPIRIT carries the spirit of our legendary flagship into a new age. This is also reflected in the ambience of the owner suites on the panorama deck. Her noble design combines with the spaciousness of the room to create an exclusive living environment. The idea of the owner suite is the modern interpretation of a tradition from the time when the ship owners themselves lived on board and had the best cabins furnished for themselves. The feeling of being the centre of the endless expanse of the ocean is reinforced by the unique perspective through the large panoramic windows overlooking the sea. Experiencing the sea is meant literally here – on the large balcony, sailing becomes a special pleasure.

Junior Suites with Balcony (Cat. B)

Our junior suites are also characterised by the elegant interpretation of the SEA CLOUD’s classic design and are designed with love for detail. Their generous character is further enhanced by the fact that they are flooded with light thanks to the panorama windows. Those who are still not satisfied with the view can enjoy the proximity of the sea from the spacious balcony. These cabins are a must for people who love the sea and above all fresh air. The simple elegance of the classic modern interior corresponds in gentle tension with the maritime atmosphere on board our new ship.

De Luxe Lido Cabins, Outside (Cat. C)

The outside cabins of this category on the lido deck combine the comfort and personal atmosphere of a five-star hotel room with the maritime, elegant cosiness that only the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT offers. The high panoramic windows can be opened. Of course, these panoramic windows also offer a wonderful view of the sea at any time of day.  

De Luxe Cabins, Outside (Cat. D)

The large portholes give our De-Luxe outside cabins on the cabin deck a special maritime flair. Together with their elegant yacht ambience, these living spaces emphasise the certainty of being on an extraordinary journey with an extraordinary ship. Precious materials and the stylish design give the spacious cabins a cosy atmosphere. And of course this cabin category is also characterised by the combination of the long SEA CLOUD tradition with the modern interpretation of classic elegance.

Superior Cabins, Outside (Cat. E)

These outside cabins on both sides of the cabin deck are the epitome of cosiness on board the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT. This is where you can retreat, switch off and relax while enjoying the unique luxurious ambience for which our private yachts are famous. Here too, tradition and the future of travel on board a modern tall ship meets in the elegant interior.

Superior Single Cabins, Outside (Cat. F)

The two cabins in this category are the ideal home for single travellers who want to enjoy the special comfort of the SEA CLOUD SPIRIT. In a slightly smaller space, they offer the same luxury and comfort as the other double cabins on the cabin deck.

Guarantee Double

The range of accommodation starts from Cat. E. You will receive your exact cabin number when arriving on board. The allotment for this category is very limited.

Restaurant & Lido Deck with Bistro
Restaurant & Lido Deck with Bistro

Whether lunchtime buffet, sundowner or barbecue – meet other sailing enthusiasts for companionable talks in the comfortable teak chairs on the lido deck.

In the evening, elaborate menus, fine wines and a first-class service in the 180° panorama restaurant will not only let the palate embark on a voyage of discovery. In addition to the “Fine Dining” evening menu in the restaurant, we now also offer you the option to dine on the lido deck at a time of your preference and enjoy our flexible bistro menu selection.

Zodiacs
Watersports
Zodiacs

Smaller ships, greater possibilities

Among the many joys of travelling smaller: a quick spin on a zodiac, enjoying the beach barbeques in secluded bays, photo safaris, pausing for a dip in the azure sea. And on selected tours, some exclusive experiences are included – a private concert, an opera house or a palace tour, a culinary visit to a special vineyard, or a front-row seat at a legendary regatta.

Watersports

Dive in and be active

Whether you want to start your swim directly from the ship or explore the colorful world on the reef – water sports are even more fun under the Caribbean sun. Equipment is available for everyone: Snorkels, fins and stand-up paddles are waiting for you. If you are in the mood for even greater action, let yourself be glided across the crystal clear waters by tubing in the Caribbean.

Lounge
Library
On Deck
Lido Deck with Bar
Lounge

Classic yacht style with many maritime details: In the elegant lounge with its Steinway grand piano, you will instantly feel at home.

Library

The light-flooded library can also be found on the same deck. The breathtaking panoramic view of the foredeck through the large panorama windows is breathtaking at any time of day.

On Deck

You can find the Self-Service Bar, Shower and Fitness Area on the Sun Deck.

Lido Deck with Bar

Whether lunchtime buffet, sundowner or barbecue – meetother sailing enthusiasts for companionable talks in the comfortable teak chairs on the lido deck.

Fitness & Sun Deck
Spa and Wellness
Fitness & Sun Deck

Only the best for body and soul: The fitness area on the sun deck features the latest cardio equipment and offers a great ocean view. After your sports unit, you can relax right next door on the spacious sun deck with sunloungers, circular sunbeds and a shower.

Spa and Wellness

The generous spa impresses with two treatment rooms, steam bath, Finnish sauna, relaxation room, multi-sensory shower, various massages, beauty parlour and hairdressing salon.

Special Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Disabled Access
Smoking Policy
Laundry Services
Internet Access
Children on Board
Sustainability & Low Impact Tourism
Medical Facilities
Special Dietary Requirements

The chef will happily accommodate special diet requests—please let us know about any requests in advance so that we may prepare.

Dress Code

During the day, and depending on the weather, a sophisticated summer look is suitable. For the evening, we recommend smart-casual wear. We also kindly request that guests refrain from wearing shorts at evening meals. The Captain’s Dinner (an event which normally takes place twice on each trip – once on short cruises) is a time when our guests tend to opt for a more elegant look. We recommend a suit for men and appropriate smart dress for women. Please remember to take some non-slip shoes with you.

Disabled Access

Our tall ships SEA CLOUD and SEA CLOUD II are not accessible for all people with disabilities and are not suitable for wheelchair users. Please contact our cruise consultancy for further details.

Smoking Policy

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.

Laundry Services

Laundry services available on board are limited to washing and ironing. There is no dry-cleaning available. The washing and ironing service is provided at an additional charge and is carried out overnight. For guests with bookings in Cat. A-C (SEA CLOUD) or Cat. A+B (SEA CLOUD II), this service is free of charge. For safety reasons, passengers are not permitted to iron in their cabins.

Internet Access

A laptop is available for use on board in the lounge (SEA CLOUD) or in the library (SEA CLOUD II). 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.

Children on Board

Children are of course very welcome on our ships, however there is no supervision or entertainment available for children.

Sustainability & Low Impact Tourism

We approach the people and their cultures with respect in all the regions we visit, travelling mindfully through the local environment. By doing this, we can bring our guests closer – in the truest sense of the word – to these places, and what makes each one special.

THE WINDJAMMER EXPERIENCE

For you and us alike, the key attraction of our trips is the chance to sail on the open seas.

We therefore take every opportunity to set sail and be propelled by the sheer power of the wind. That is why the captain will sometimes change the route if the weather requires it. On board our SEA CLOUD tall ships, you’ll experience the elements, as many of the day-to-day activities take place outside.

HAVING AS LITTLE IMPACT AS POSSIBLE

When we do have to start the engines, we utilise low-sulphur marine diesel on all three of our windjammers.

For us, this is standard practice. Even the SEA CLOUD, our very first windjammer, was equipped with this technology right from the start. Our motto: to minimise our impact on the environment yet still make a profound and positive impression on those around us.

A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO LIFE ON-BOARD

Avoiding plastic, reducing water usage and protecting the environment.

These are the factors that guide us in the day to day operation of our ships and our ongoing development of eco-friendly alternatives. To cite just one example, our reusable drinks bottles are not only easy on the eye, but also easy on the environment.

QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY

Our ‘small but perfectly formed’ windjammers are able to visit smaller ports, away from the busy routes frequented by large cruise liners.

With a maximum of 64 to 136 passengers, we’re always welcomed in those locations thanks to our approach of visiting local communities rather than overwhelming them. Needless to say, our itineraries also include some classic destinations, though we usually visit these only when the mega-liners have moved on.

BOOSTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY

Procuring supplies locally, working with local, smaller-scale agencies and paying fair prices.

By taking this approach, we see ourselves as a partner for our local service providers, with whom we’ve built relationships based on trust over many years. After all, we want our voyages to benefit both our guests and the communities we visit around the world.

AUTHENTIC CUISINE

Our menus are always a true reflection of the regional cuisine.

This is because our chefs enjoy buying exotic spices, local specialities and freshly caught fish from local markets to bring you – even in a culinary sense – closer to the places we visit.

A MEMBER OF THE FUTOURIS NETWORK

Heading into the future with Futouris.

Preserving the natural and cultural heritage of our world and shaping the future of tourism in a sustainable way is what Futouris stands for. Members of the network are working globally to improve people’s living conditions, preserve biodiversity and protect the environment and climate.

Medical Facilities

All three ships have a hospital, which is supervised by a ship’s doctor. Medical consultation hours can be found in the daily program. In case of an emergency, the doctor can be reached at any time by calling 911.

Sun Deck
Lido Deck
Verandah Deck
Cabin Deck
Sun Deck
  • Fitness Area
  • Self-Service Bar
  • Captain
  • Bridge
  • Shower
  • Sun Deck
  • Elevator
Lido Deck
  • Lido Bar & Bistro
  • Lounge
  • Elevator
  • Library
  • De Luxe Lido Cabins
Verandah Deck
  • Elevator
  • Restaurant
  • Reception
  • Suites
  • Junior Suites
Cabin Deck
  • De Luxe Cabins
  • Superior Cabins
  • Superior Single Cabins
  • Elevator
  • Hospital
  • Swim Platform
  • Hairdresser
  • Relaxation Room
  • Finnish Sauna
  • Shower
  • Foot Bath
  • Treatment Rooms
  • Boutique
  • Stream Bath

Get in touch with our team to start planning

Call and speak to a member of our experienced team today on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.

Alternatively, leave your details and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.