A Sea Cloud Sailing Ship Adventure

Murielle Blanchard
October 23, 2025

“The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.” –Robert Wyland

In the world of ocean cruising, there are several types of ships: mega cruise ships, small luxury cruise ships, expedition ships and sailing ships. Four companies offer sailing ships in their fleet: Windstar, Star Clipper, Ponant and Sea Cloud. The key difference between Windstar and Star Clipper is the way they operate the sails: Windstar’s automated, “push-button” sails versus Star Clippers’ hand-operated sails. Ponant and Sea Cloud are in the luxury category and they both hand-operate sails.

Sea Cloud Cruises

Sea Cloud has three ships: Sea Cloud is the oldest and largest private sailing yacht at the time of its launch in 1931, Sea Cloud II was built in 2001 to modern specifications, and Sea Cloud Spirit, launched in 2021, is the fleet’s newest and largest ship, combining traditional sailing with 21st-century amenities.

I wish to share with you my experience on Sea Cloud Spirit. With sails hoisted by hand and no modern shortcuts, it is an excellent way to experience sailing with great comfort.

A Modern Vintage Experience

The towering masts and thousands of square meters of canvas sails provide a stunning visual experience. You embrace the rhythm of the ocean. Unlike the sterile efficiency of modern cruise ships, a vessel with sails connects you to the sea in a more intimate and authentic way.

The ship can welcome 126 guests in sixty-nine outside cabins. Crew of eighty-five; three masts with twenty-eight sails for a total sail area of about 44,100 square feet.

One of the most thrilling parts of the journey is when the crew sets up the sails. The noise of the waves against the vessel and the wind in the sails transport you. You are part of the element. You can even experience the sea from high above the sails, climbing to the first platform forty-six feet above the deck, expertly guided and outfitted in state-of-the-art safety equipment.

Life Onboard

Sea Cloud Spirit has four expansive decks, which means plenty of space to linger at the lido bar and bistro, relax in the lounge with the sounds of a Steinway, or unwind in the elegant light-filled library. The upscale restaurant features full-service fine dining where guests come together for one sophisticated seating. On my cruise, we had the option to eat dinner every night on the back deck.

Guests can get physical in the fitness room, active on the swim platform with snorkel gear, paddle boards, and towable tubes, then massaged in the spa for the ultimate relaxation at sea.

Deluxe staterooms feature artful interiors with small sitting areas, marble bathrooms and large balconies.

This type of cruising is a chance to disconnect from the frantic pulse of modern life and reconnect with something ancient, vast, and beautiful.

Last Thoughts

Sea Cloud Spirit sails in the Mediterranean from May to November and in the Caribbean from November to May.

On the Trans-Atlantic sailing guests can enjoy a two-week journey between the Canary Islands and the Caribbean, riding the winter trade winds and frequently running under sail even overnight. This is sea travel at its most soulful — and its most adventurous with mast climbs, a marina platform, open bridge, and the joy of pure sailing.

Where Can I Help You Go?

Whether your dream is to sail on a Sea Cloud ship or a modern ocean or river cruise ship, I’d love to help you plan your next adventure.

Bon Voyage!

Murielle Blanchard
Black Pearl Luxury Services
A division of Morris Columbus Travel
(801) 483-6533 or email me

Murielle Blanchard

I have been a travel consultant for more than 35 years, and during that time I have designed customized itineraries for clients all over the world. I have traveled widely myself and have discovered the most interesting hotels, lodges, and restaurants. I would be delighted to offer you the benefit of my unique travel background. Whether your next holiday involves family, a romantic getaway, adventure, luxury, or relaxation, I have ideas, contacts, and a wealth of experience to place at your disposal.

Contact Me