Expedition Overview
Expedition Overview
- Sail aboard the legendary Sea Cloud, an elegant four-masted tall ship built by E.F. Hutton for his wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post.
- Venture to 4 fascinating countries with a team of experts, who offer their insights into the history and culture of these stunning locations.
- Explore numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Olympia, Greece and the seldom-visited archaeological ruins of Butrint—an ancient Albanian city.
- Enjoy a private performance of traditional Croatian klapa music at a monastery courtyard in enchanting Dubrovnik.
Itinerary
Itinerary
From the ancient temples of Olympia to the medieval walled city of Hvar, immerse yourself in the history and culture of some of Europe's most spectacular places on board the legendary four-masted Sea Cloud. Discover the remarkable sites of Albania, cut off from the modern world for decades, and explore Montenegro and incomparable Dubrovnik.
This trip is operated in collaboration with Lindblad Expeditions.
Depart on an overnight flight to Athens. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy lunch and then head to the Acropolis Museum, which houses some of the most important classical sculptures and artifacts from the Acropolis. Later, transfer to Piraeus and embark the majestic Sea Cloud. Cast off this afternoon and take in your first Greek sunset at sea.
Sea Cloud for the entire voyage
Enjoy a full day on the open sea as you round the southern coast of the Peloponnesian Peninsula. Come out on deck to watch the crew hoist the ship’s many sails by hand. Relax with a book on deck, photograph the yacht and its exquisite details—designed by Marjorie Merriweather Post herself—and hear talks about the region by the expedition team.
Dock in Katákolo and travel overland to the ancient site of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games, which were held here every 4 years beginning in 776 B.C. for 12 centuries. Wander through the evocative ruins of this World Heritage Site, including the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Zeus, once home to a colossal statue of Zeus that is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. See the Olympic Stadium and pay a visit to the superb Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from the site. Later this afternoon, return to Sea Cloud and sail north along the coast of Greece.
Discover gemlike Ionian villages nestled along the coast of Itháki this day. Drive around the island to view the sites that some claim link this land to Homer's Ithaca and in the afternoon, cruise into a stunning bay for a swim.
Cut off from the world for 50 years by its Stalinist dictator, Albania is now feeling its way into the 21st century, and its treasures are still little known. Venture into the ancient city of Butrint, a World Heritage Site. With its Hellenic theater, Byzantine basilica and Venetian towers, this lovely lakeside city tells the tale of the many civilizations that have passed through it. Return to Sarandë and experience its intriguing blend of religions, cultures and landscapes. Enjoy refreshments at Lekuris Castle while looking down on the bay of Sarandë and the Straits of Corfu.
Dock in Durrës, drive to the ancient capital of Krujë, visit the medieval market and explore the Ethnographic Museum. Also visit the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania's national hero. Have lunch and take in a display of traditional Albanian music and dance.
Sail into Montenegro via the magnificent Gulf of Kotor, a narrow waterway backed by soaring mountains. Stop at the historic town of Perast before taking a local boat to the islet of Gospa od Škrpjela, or Our Lady of the Rocks. Steeped in lore, the islet was created by fishermen dropping rocks from their rowboats. Meander through medieval Kotor this afternoon or take a drive up 27 serpentine switchbacks to the top of the fjord for an unrivaled view.
Spend the day in the city Lord Byron called the "pearl of the Adriatic." Dubrovnik is regarded as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world, and its entire historic center is a designated World Heritage Site. Anchor just outside the medieval walls and step into the heart of the old town. Visit the 14th-century Franciscan monastery, explore the Rector's Palace, walk the city's ramparts and stroll through marble-paved squares. This afternoon, enjoy a special treat: a private performance of traditional Croatian klapa music in a monastery courtyard. Sea Cloud remains anchored this night, so you may dine on board or stay in town for dinner and an evening stroll.
After a leisurely morning of sailing, dock along the 13th-century walls of the island port of Korčula, one of the most beautiful medieval towns in the Balkans. Visit the town's sites and see the house believed by some to be Marco Polo's birthplace. Take advantage of free time to wander along Korčula's lovely waterfront. Stop for a drink in a local café this evening before returning to the ship.
At the height of Venetian rule, Hvar was the region's most prosperous center. Take a morning walking tour inside the delightful walled city to the 15th-century Franciscan monastery. Visit the arsenal, discover Croatia's oldest active theater and, if you choose, hike up to the citadel. This afternoon, set out on your final sail.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight.