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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.

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Delight in 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.

The iconic Sea Cloud II is perhaps the most luxurious three-masted sailing yacht on the seas today. Like Marjorie Merriweather Post’s legendary Sea Cloud, she 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 5-star dining.

Faculty from peer institutions including Yale, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and National Trust will present subject-specific talks on topics including art, architecture, and antiquity throughout your journey.

Your gourmet meals ashore will include a cheese- and wine-tasting at a small cellar located in a cobblestoned street of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a dinner ashore in Portovenere, and a local lunch in Florence or Lucca.

This historic French Riviera property boasts a central waterfront location along the glamorous Croisette, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and shopping.

Experience the works of Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall during visits to landmark museums dedicated to each artist, all of whom spent many prime working years in the Côte d’Azur and were inspired by the region’s special light and landscapes.

Picture yourself at Villa Ephrussi in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat where the lovely gardens and architectural wonders await your visit.

Depart home on overnight flights to Nice, France, arriving April 26. Transfer to nearby Cannes and check in to Hotel Carlton. Enjoy a restful afternoon at leisure, then meet your fellow travelers at a private welcome reception and dinner at the hotel. HOTEL CARLTON (R,D)

This morning, choose between two guided excursions: 1) The nearby Picasso Museum and a walking tour of Old Town Antibes, including its ramparts along the sea; 2) The fortified village and artists’ mecca of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, followed by the the Maeght Foundation and its impressive sculpture garden and collection of modern and contemporary art. Following lunch at the hotel, enjoy a welcome orientation and introductory lecture. The afternoon is at leisure to explore the area around the hotel or the rest of the Côte d’ Azur on your own. HOTEL CARLTON (B,L)

This morning, choose between two excursions: 1) Scenic Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a picture-perfect village jutting into the sea atop a small peninsula highlighted by the lovely garden and architectural masterpiece of Villa Ephrussi, followed by the quaint village of Èze, perched on a rocky peak overlooking the Mediterranean and an afternoon at leisure; 2) Monaco, including the Old Town with the State Apartments of the Prince’s Palace and the Opera Gallery, followed by free time in Monte Carlo. HOTEL CARLTON (B,L)

After a morning at leisure, drive to Nice and choose between two excursions: 1) See the Marc Chagall Museum, which curiously opened during his lifetime, and 2) Visit the Matisse Museum, housing a large number of his works as well as pieces from his private collection that inspired some of his most famous paintings and sculptures. Late this afternoon, embark the Sea Cloud II in Nice and bid adieu to France as you sail toward Italy. SEA CLOUD II (B,L,D)

Enjoy the thrilling experience of cruising under sail (weather permitting), then anchor off Porto Venere and experience the Cinque Terre by foot, walking between iconic seaside villages. Perched between steeply terraced vineyards and the Ligurian Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected marine area is characterized by tiny villages and hidden coves. Stop in Manarola for a wine tasting and dinner. SEA CLOUD II (B,L,D)

Dock in Livorno for a choice of full-day tours, each featuring a gourmet local lunch: 1) Florence, with a guided city walk to see the iconic landmarks of the historic center as well as the Duomo complex and a visit to the Florence American Cemetery 2) Lucca, birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini and treasure chest of Tuscany’s ancient trade in silk, with a stroll around the elliptical central piazza made up of medieval buildings outlining the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, as well as time to stroll around sections of the ancient city walls, now a park[1]like promenade. Return to the Sea Cloud II in the evening for dinner on board. SEA CLOUD II (B,L,D

This morning, following in the footsteps of the Argonauts and Napoleon, call at the tropicalesque Isle of Elba. Take a panoramic drive with superb views over the coastline, visit Napoleon’s summer residence during his exile on the island from 1814 to 1815, and stop for a wine tasting at a 17th-century country wine estate, with vineyards nestled among ancient olive trees. Return to the ship for lunch, with a leisurely afternoon of cruising and final opportunity to experience the ship under sail. Gather this evening for the captain’s farewell reception and dinner. SEA CLOUD II (B,L,R,D)

Disembarkation and transfer to the Florence airport for flights home or begin the optional extension in Tuscany. (B)

Extend your stay with five days at Belmond Castello di Casole, a 10th-century estate spread across 4,200 acres in the Tuscan countryside near Siena. Excursions include a visit to the exclusive Marchesi di Antinori Estate, with a private visit of the cellars. Enjoy a truffle hunting experience followed by a cooking class, and explore Torre Campatelli in San Gimignano during a private, after-hours visit. Further details and pricing will be sent to confirmed participants.

Art, Architecture, & Antiquity Aboard the Sea Cloud II
April 25 - May 3, 2025

To register contact CAU partner Criterion Travel
phone 888-328-2089  |  email res@criteriontravel.com

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