Events Calendar

Nice, Monte Carlo, Cannes, Cinque Terre, Lucca, Florence. These are names that conjure up images of glamorous seaports, sun-drenched beaches, rich masterpieces of art and architecture, picturesque villages, and medieval history—in short, the quintessential Mediterranean journey. Late April and early May are the perfect times of the year, with verdant gardens and landscapes awash with blossoms, and moderate temperatures.

Delight a three-night luxury hotel stay on the French Riviera with a relaxed four-night cruise aboard the Sea Cloud II from Nice to Livorno, with port calls in Portovenere (for the Cinque Terre), the Isle of Elba, and Livorno (for a choice of a day trip to Lucca or Florence). There is no better way to experience the voyage than under sail aboard the incomparable Sea Cloud II, which combines the seafaring elegance of a bygone era with the highest modern standards of luxury. The ship’s small size also allows us to moor centrally in the most scenic harbors and anchor offshore of Portovenere for a visit to the Cinque Terre. In the grand tradition of the world’s finest sailing vessels, guests experience this marvelous ship under sail, as the skilled crew hand-sets over 30,000 square feet of canvas.

A post-tour extension will be offered to Tuscany, at the Borgo Scopeto Wine & Country Relais, a 5-star enchanted estate set in lush vineyards and olive groves in the Tuscan countryside near Siena.

Join us aboard the elegant 59-cabin Hebridean Sky, for an eight-night Western Mediterranean cruise. This unique educational program highlights phenomenal archeological sites in Gibraltar and Salerno, Italy, as well as the Spanish island Menorca and Italian islands Sardinia and Sicily.

Join in an exploration of the magnificent landscapes, remote islands, ancient settlements, and idyllic villages of Norway and northern Scotland, cruising during cruising during the peak of spring, with long days of bright-green scenery speckled with blooming flowers and rushing waterfalls in the fjords from snow melting in the mountains. This varied and balanced itinerary, from Inverness to the Orkney Islands, then along the Norwegian Coast above the Arctic Circle, combines the wonders of the natural world with the historical and cultural highlights of the area.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Tanzanian safari adventure, beginning with your arrival in Arusha, where you`ll be greeted by the breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Your journey continues to the majestic Tarangire National Park, home to iconic baobab trees and vast herds of elephants. Explore the vibrant birdlife and diverse ecosystems of Lake Manyara, where flamingos, pelicans, and tree-climbing lions create a mesmerizing spectacle. Descend into the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, a World Heritage site teeming with abundant wildlife, including the elusive black-maned lions and rare black rhinos. Along the way, you`ll also have the chance to visit local schools, traditional homes, and a biogas plant, providing a unique cultural insight into the region.

Next, delve into ancient history at Oldupai Gorge, one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites, before venturing into the iconic Serengeti National Park. Witness the great migration of wildebeest and zebras, and experience thrilling wildlife drives to spot predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Enjoy panoramic views of the sprawling Serengeti plains, providing the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Conclude your journey with a flight back to Arusha, where you`ll have a final opportunity to shop for local crafts and savor Tanzanian cuisine before heading home, enriched with unforgettable memories of East Africa`s stunning landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and extraordinary wildlife experiences.

Embark on a captivating journey to the Galapagos Islands, beginning with your arrival in Quito, Ecuador, where you will enjoy a warm welcome reception and dinner. The next day, fly to San Cristobal Island to embark on the Coral I and visit the Interpretive Center and Frigatebird Hill. Your adventure includes “wet” and “dry” landings, giving you the chance to explore diverse landscapes and encounter unique wildlife. From the striking lava formations and migratory birds at Cerro Brujo to the stunning views and nesting colonies of boobies at Pitt Point, each day promises unforgettable experiences.

Delve into the geological and biological richness of Española Island, where you will witness vibrant seabird colonies, dramatic volcanic formations, and the famous blowhole, "Soplador." Continue to Floreana Island, home to flamingos, sea turtles, and historical Post Office Bay. Explore the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to observe giant tortoises and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Discover the seabird colonies of Genovesa Island, snorkel in the marine-rich waters of Rabida Island, and ascend to the summit of Bartolome Island for panoramic views. Conclude your voyage with a serene dinghy ride through Black Turtle Cove before returning to Quito for a farewell dinner, bringing your extraordinary family adventure to a close.

Aboard the sumptuous Sea Cloud II, discover Mediterranean islands rich with history and spectacular beauty. From Malta’s capital of Valletta, sail to Sicily’s ancient port of Trapani. Discover the magnificent remnants of an ancient Greek colony that thrived in Sicily, enjoying an inside look at the marvelously well-preserved temple of Segesta, which was built in the fifth century B.C. Continue to the Italian island of Sardinia and its ancient capital of Cagliari, which traces its history back to the Phoenicians and Romans. Float along Sardinia’s west coast to Alghero, colonized by the Catalans in the 14th century. Discover Sardinia’s domed stone fortresses called nuraghi, striking evidence of an advanced Bronze Age civilization on the island.
Be on deck when Sea Cloud II approaches French Corsica and Bonifacio’s stunning natural harbor, with its breathtaking setting atop limestone cliffs. Sail north to the enchanting island of Elba, Napoleon’s place of exile, and explore Napoleon’s residence, Villa San Martino, now a museum. Arrive in Tuscany on the Italian mainland, where you will have a choice between excursions departing from the port of Livorno: Wander through the medieval fortified town of Lucca, the birthplace of Puccini, or venture to Pietrasanta, a tiny contemporary art community that Michelangelo once called home.