The Authentic Cruise Company

Itinerary

Day 1: Philipsburg
Day 2: North Gorda Sound
Day 3: North Gorda Sound
Day 4: Norman Island
Day 6: Terre-de-Haut
Day 7: Soufrière
Day 8: Chatham Bay, Union Island
Day 9: Saint-Pierre
Day 11: Gustavia
Day 12: Gustavia
Day 13: Saint John's
Day 14: Road Bay
Day 15: Philipsburg
Day 1: Philipsburg

The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village’s dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It’s generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander’s home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside.

Day 2: North Gorda Sound

Gorda Sound is a gateway harbour in the British Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean. The islands form part of the British overseas territory and benefit from a tropical climate. Gorda Sound is situated between one of the main islands, Virgin Gorda and Mosquito Island, Colquhoun Reef and Prickly Pear Island. From here, visitors can enjoy the Indian heritage of its namesake Mosquito Island, a history of island tourism from Drake’s Anchorage Resort and spend some time relaxing in picturesque surroundings on Prickly Pear Island. As the British Virgin Islands are a volcanic archipelago, the area benefits from magnificent reefs which are perfect for divers and snorkelers. The islands are also known as a popular yachting destination as much of the area is easily sailed. On the land, visitors will enjoy white sandy beaches to relax on or, for the more adventurous, there are plenty of mountain roads and rainforest-filled landscape to explore.

Day 3: North Gorda Sound

Gorda Sound is a gateway harbour in the British Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean. The islands form part of the British overseas territory and benefit from a tropical climate. Gorda Sound is situated between one of the main islands, Virgin Gorda and Mosquito Island, Colquhoun Reef and Prickly Pear Island. From here, visitors can enjoy the Indian heritage of its namesake Mosquito Island, a history of island tourism from Drake’s Anchorage Resort and spend some time relaxing in picturesque surroundings on Prickly Pear Island. As the British Virgin Islands are a volcanic archipelago, the area benefits from magnificent reefs which are perfect for divers and snorkelers. The islands are also known as a popular yachting destination as much of the area is easily sailed. On the land, visitors will enjoy white sandy beaches to relax on or, for the more adventurous, there are plenty of mountain roads and rainforest-filled landscape to explore.

Day 4: Norman Island
Day 6: Terre-de-Haut
Day 7: Soufrière

The oldest town in St. Lucia and the island’s former French colonial capital, Soufrière was founded by the French in 1746 and named for its proximity to the volcano of the same name. The wharf is the center of activity in this sleepy town (population, 9,000), particularly when a cruise ship anchors in pretty Soufrière Bay. French colonial influences are evident in the second-story verandahs, gingerbread trim, and other appointments of the wooden buildings that surround the market square. The market building itself is decorated with colorful murals. Soufrière, the site of much of St. Lucia’s renowned natural beauty, is the destination of most sightseeing trips. This is where you can get up close to the iconic Pitons and visit colonial capital of St. Lucia, with its “drive-in” volcano, botanical gardens, working plantations, waterfalls, and countless other examples of the natural beauty for which St. Lucia is deservedly famous.

Day 8: Chatham Bay, Union Island
Day 9: Saint-Pierre
Day 11: Gustavia

You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats.

Day 12: Gustavia

You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats.

Day 13: Saint John's

With its superb beaches, historical attractions and beautiful coral reefs, Antigua provides a host of diversions. It is said that the island contains 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. Antigua maintains its traditional West Indian character, with gingerbread-house style architecture, calypso music and carnival festivities. St John’s has been the administrative capital since the island’s colonisation in 1632, and has been the seat of government since it gained independence in 1981. From the port you can explore the colourful Redcliffe district, with its restored wooden houses, and Heritage Quay with its shopping mall and craft shops. The city has some fine examples of Colonial architecture, including the twin-towered cathedral, built in 1845 and considered one of the finest church buildings in the Caribbean. All coaches in Antigua are operated by smaller vehicles, and commentary will be given by a driver/guide.

Day 14: Road Bay
Day 15: Philipsburg

The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village’s dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It’s generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander’s home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside.

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.