About the Journey

Sail the Mediterranean from Palermo to Nice, calling on the culturally rich and stunningly beautiful islands of Sardinia and Corsica, and experiencing the romance of a bygone era aboard the elegant, three-masted Sea Cloud II. 

Witness Roman remains decked with mosaic details as you wander the cobblestone streets of Sardinia's capital, Cagliari. View the rugged cliffs of Corsica from the deck of the Sea Cloud II, arriving at the awe-inspiring port of Bonifacio. Walk in the footsteps of Napoleon at Villa San Martino on the island of Elba and sample wines at a private tasting overlooking the vineyard. Stroll the charming streets of Portofino with its artisan shops, pastel-painted buildings, and Mediterranean view. In Genoa, meet local experts for guided looks at Renaissance and Baroque treasures, including 17th-century frescoes inside the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato. 

For those wishing to experience more of Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital, a pre-program extension will be offered.

Please note: Princeton travelers will be joined by those from Harvard, National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Museum Travel Alliance.

Accommodation

Sea Cloud II
Like Marjorie Merriweather Post’s legendary Sea Cloud, the iconic three-masted Sea Cloud II combines the seafaring elegance of a bygone era with the highest modern standards of luxury. In the grand tradition of the world’s finest sailing vessels, guests can experience this marvelous ship under sail as the skilled crew hand-sets over 30,000 square feet of canvas. The Sea Cloud II offers an intimate setting of just 47 beautifully appointed cabins, gracious common areas, world-class service, and five-star dining.

Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

• Thursday, October 8 | Depart U.S.
  Depart on overnight flights to Palermo, Italy.
  Meals aloft
   
• Friday, October 9 | Palermo, Italy
  Arrive in Palermo, Sicily’s capital, with early guests gathering for lunch. This afternoon, board the elegant Sea Cloud II.
  Sea Cloud II (L, D)
   
• Saturday, October 10 | At Sea
  As you make your way toward Sardinia, savor the thrill of cruising aboard the legendary Sea Cloud II under a full set of billowing sails. This evening, gather for the captain’s welcome reception and dinner.
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, R, D)
   
• Sunday, October 11 | Cagliari
  Arrive in Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital, along the island’s southern coast. Take a walking tour through the maze-like streets of the Old Town, also known as Castello, and view the Piazza del Palazzo, home to the 13th-century Duomo di Cagliari. 
  
  Alternatively, transfer to Nora, beautifully situated on a promontory overlooking the sea. Conquered by the Romans in 238 B.C., Nora holds marvelous ruins including a theater, an aqueduct, a nymphaeum, baths stunning mosaic floors, and a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing.
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
   
• Monday, October 12 | Bonifacio, France
  This morning, stand on deck as the ship navigates the scenic, fjord-like waterway into Corsica and arrives at the awe-inspiring port of Bonifacio. Built on white limestone cliffs, this hilltop town features a ninth-century citadel, winding medieval lanes, Gothic architecture, and dramatic views.
  
  Explore two remarkable churches, Église Sainte-Marie-Majeure, Bonifacio’s oldest building, and Église Saint-Dominique de Bonifacio, built between 1270 and 1343 on ground once held by Templars. Stop at the imposing Porte de Gênes, a 12th-century Genoese fortification that stood guard over Bonifacio’s citadel for hundreds of years. Pause to gaze at the sea-and-sky panorama that has awed travelers for centuries.
  
  Set sail in the evening and head north to Elba. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
   
• Tuesday, October 13 | Portoferraio, Italy
  Step ashore on Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile from 1814 to 1815. Set out for a delightful drive through the southern region, with superb views over the coastline, and stop at Villa San Martino, Napoleon’s summer residence. Later, enjoy some time at leisure browsing the boutiques of Porto Azzurro, dominated by a 16th-century Spanish fortress and a picturesque harbor.
  
  Continue along the coast to Tenuta La Chiusa, an 18th-century vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the ocean. Enjoy a private look at the estate’s cellar, built in 1700, to learn how the wine is handled and produced. In the garden facing the sea, enjoy a delicious sampling of the local product. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
   
• Wednesday, October 14 | Portofino
  In the late morning, step ashore in Portofino on the Italian Riviera, where the hills and verdant harbor have inspired generations of artists. Opt for a light hike for some spectacular views of the coastline along with the colors and scents of the Mediterranean vegetation. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure for independent exploration of this coastal village. 
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, D)
   
• Thursday, October 15 | Genoa
  Begin the day at the Porto Antico, where native architect Renzo Piano transformed the ancient harbor into a vibrant waterfront. Ascend 131 feet in Piano’s Il Bigo lift for breathtaking views of the city and sea.
  
  Explore the San Lorenzo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Marvel at its distinctive black-and-white striped façade, intricate portals, and the unexpected sight of a preserved World War II bomb inside—a poignant reminder of Genoa’s resilience. Then step into the Baroque splendor of the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato. Here, 17th-century Genoese artists have created a luminous wonderland of frescoes, gilded stuccoes, and inlaid marble.
  
  The afternoon takes you behind the scenes at Villa del Principe. Wander through formal gardens that stretch to the sea, then enter rooms adorned with magnificent tapestries and frescoes. Return to Sea Cloud II for the captain’s farewell reception and dinner.
  Sea Cloud II (B, L, R, D)
   
• Friday, October 16 | Nice, France / Return to the U.S.
  Disembark Sea Cloud II in Nice this morning, and transfer to the airport for flights home. 
  (B)

Please note: Itinerary is subject to change.

Pricing

View Sea Cloud II deck layouts.

• Cabins 204 to 206, Cabin Deck, upper/lower twin berths, shower: $7,999 per person sharing; $9,999 single occupancy
   
• Superior Cabins 207 to 210, Cabin Deck, twin beds, shower: $10,499 per person sharing; $15,399 single occupancy
   
• Deluxe Cabins 211 to 217 & 224 to 231, Cabin Deck, twin beds, shower: $12,499 per person sharing; $18,799 single occupancy
   
• Deluxe Cabins 218 to 223, Cabin Deck, twin beds, shower: $14,499 per person sharing
   
• Deluxe Cabins 301 & 302, Promenade Deck, twin beds, shower: $15,999 per person sharing
   
• Junior Suites 303 to 319, Promenade Deck, twin beds, bathtub with shower: $18,999 per person sharing
   
• Owner's Suites 401 & 402, Lido Deck, Queen bed, bathtub and separate shower: $20,999 per person sharing

Inclusions

Included in the program cost are: Seven nights cabin accommodations aboard Sea Cloud II • Meals as indicated on the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, R=Reception, D=Dinner) • Bottled water, soft drinks, juices, and coffee/tea with all meals; thoughtfully selected wine and beer with onboard lunches and dinners; complimentary open bar aboard Sea Cloud II throughout the cruise (including all standard spirits) • Enrichment program of lectures and talks • Escorted sightseeing, transportation, and entrance fees for all included visits • Airport/pier/airport group transfers for all participants on suggested flights • Taxes, service, and porterage charges • Gratuities to local guides and drivers • Customary shipboard gratuities

Not included: International airfare • Passport/visa fees • Meals not specified • Alcoholic beverages other than what is noted in inclusions • Personal items and expenses • Airport transfers other than for those on suggested flights • Excess baggage • Trip insurance • Optional Palermo prelude • Any other items not specifically mentioned as included

Reservations

Please view the tour terms and conditions, then register online or contact the Princeton Journeys team at journeys@princeton.edu / 609.258.8686 with questions.