Italy Under Sail
Flights from London→Valletta → Syracuse → Taormina → Amalfi → Bonifacio → Portoferraio → Piombino → Livorno→Return to London
Organised by Noble Caledonia.
From
from £5995
per person
Overview
A voyage from Valletta to Livorno including a call in Corsica aboard the magnificent Sea Cloud Spirit
This wonderful journey will appeal to those who hold a particular affection for Italy, enjoy experiencing new places, and relish spending time at sea under sail. For this exploration, Noble Caledonia is working with their long-time associates, Sea Cloud Cruises, who have made a number of cabins available for Noble Caledonia passengers aboard the magnificent windjammer, Sea Cloud Spirit, a wonderfully classic vessel that embodies the best of sailing traditions.
Setting sail from Valletta's Grand Harbour, guests will spend two days in Sicily with opportunities to discover the ancient city of Syracuse and the attractive coastal resort of Giardini Naxos at leisure. Those wishing to delve further into Sicily's remarkable heritage may wish to join the optional excursions to the Neapolis Archaeological Park or to Taormina, where the celebrated Greek theatre commands magnificent views across the landscape towards Mount Etna. Crossing to mainland Italy, there will be an afternoon call into the picturesque town of Amalfi before enjoying a leisurely day under sail bound for Bonifacio with its breathtaking cliff-top setting on the French island of Corsica. The voyage continues to the timeless island of Elba, where guests can explore the attractive old harbour town of Portoferraio. The final port of call is historic Piombino, on Tuscany's Etruscan coast, where the atmosphere of coastal Italy and its celebrated ‘dolce vita’ provide a fitting conclusion to the journey. The shore excursions at each port of call are optional, allowing guests to be as footloose as they please with ample time to soak up the atmosphere of each destination at their own pace.
Highlights
- Experience luxury travel aboard the Sea Cloud Spirit, featuring welcome drinks, gourmet dinners, and the unique opportunity to watch the crew hoist sails by hand.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage island of Ortigia in Syracuse, famous for its grand Baroque palaces and a cathedral that blends ancient Greek temple and Christian basilica architecture.
- Visit the Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse to see the well-preserved Greek theatre and the Ear of Dionysius, a vast grotto renowned for its natural amplifying resonance.
- Discover the charm of Taormina, including the 15th-century Palazzo Corvaja and the iconic Greek Theatre with breathtaking views of Mount Etna.
- Cruise along the rugged, UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast, characterized by its dramatic cliffs and charming, pastel-coloured houses clinging to the shoreline.
- Visit the historic Amalfi Cathedral, a 10th-century landmark featuring an Arabic-Norman campanile, colourful marble façade, and an enchanting cloister.
- Navigate into the spectacular natural harbour of Bonifacio, Corsica, hidden behind towering white chalk cliffs and accessible via a stunning fjord-like inlet.
- Ascend the historic ‘Staircase of the King of Aragon’ in Bonifacio, a route consisting of over 187 stone steps leading to the medieval town perched atop the cliffs.
- Discover the diverse landscapes of Elba, from white sandy beaches and vineyards to the historic fortress of Portoferraio, site of Napoleon’s exile.
- Enjoy an immersive coastal experience in Piombino, exploring its historic old town, local markets, and scenic waterfront views overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Explore further
Destination guides
More ocean cruises
The ship
Itinerary
- 1
Day 1 London to Valletta, Malta.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to Sea Cloud Spirit and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner. Sail this evening.
- 2
Day 2 Syracuse, Sicily, Italy.
The municipal area of Syracuse boasts relics spanning more than three millennia of cultural history. The island of Ortigia, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was where Syracuse began its rise as an ancient city and by the 5th century BC it was one of the most powerful cities in the known world and was famed for its splendour. Enjoy the morning to explore independently, perhaps take a leisurely stroll through the old town where magnificent palaces line the piazza and visit the cathedral, renowned for its unique blend of architectural styles having begun as a Greek temple, before being converted into a Christian basilica and later rebuilt in the Baroque style. Alternatively, join the optional excursion to the Neapolis Archaeological Park where we will find a well-preserved Greek theatre with seats carved from limestone. Paradise Quarry, now an attractive garden and orange grove, was the primary source of that limestone and is the site of the curious ‘Ear of Dionysius', a vast grotto with an amplifying resonance. Return to Sea Cloud Spirit for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing on deck as we cruise under sail.
- 3
Day 3 Giardini Naxos for Taormina.
From our anchorage at Giardini Naxos, you may wish to join the optional tour to Taormina which is perched on a rock with magnificent views over the sea. The town has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century and our guided tour will include a walk through the characteristic alleys before visiting the 15th century Palazzo Corvaja and the impressive Greek Theatre, from where there are marvellous views over the town and coast. The town's fascination lies in its elegance, ancient buildings, beautiful coastline and mild climate as well as the views towards Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. In ancient times it was considered the seat of the gods, but today large sections of the mountain form part of a nature reserve.
- 4
Day 4 Amalfi.
Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea as we cruise to mainland Italy and along the beautifully curving Amalfi Coast, which stretches along the rugged Sorrento Peninsula and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the afternoon at leisure in the pretty town of Amalfi, whose history as an influential maritime republic is still clear to see. A labyrinth of pastel-coloured houses clings to the rocky coastline, whilst at the heart of the town is the beautiful cathedral. Dating from the 10th century, it features three naves, an enchanting cloister, colourful marble façade, Arabic-Norman campanile and magnificent steps leading to the lively Piazza Duomo.
- 5
Day 5 At Sea.
Climbing the rigging, untying ropes and setting sails, today is all about sailing. Spend time relaxing in a deck chair and watch the crew hoist the sails by hand.
- 6
Day 6 Bonifacio, Corsica, France.
After a leisurely morning at sea, we arrive in Bonifacio. Known to Odysseus as the home of the savage and giant Laestrygonians, today Bonifacio's breathtaking cliff-top setting and relaxed pace make it one of the most welcoming ports in the Mediterranean. The chalk cliffs are visible from a considerable distance and hidden behind them is a fjord-like inlet, which provides the beautiful entrance into the natural harbour. The lower town is set around the harbour with a promenade that runs the length of the deep bay and leads to the elegant marina. More than 187 stone steps, majestically named the ‘Staircase of the King of Aragon', lead to the Medieval upper town perched on top of the steep chalk cliffs. Spend the afternoon exploring the town or perhaps take a walk in the nearby Marine Park which offers some stunning views back to the town.
- 7
Day 7 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea as we cruise to the island of Elba. Relax on deck and enjoy the good food and convivial atmosphere on board.
- 8
Day 8 Portoferraio, Elba.
Today we call into the enchanting island of Elba which although only a small Tuscan island, boasts much diversity. Imposing cliffs, white sandy beaches, avenues of cypresses, vineyards and olive groves, traditional villages and elegant beach resorts characterise this beautiful island, best known as the place of Napoleon's exile. Explore the attractive old town of Portoferraio with its narrow stepped streets and Medieval fortress set high on a rocky headland. Alternatively, make your way to the delightful town of Porto Azzurro with its palm-lined promenades, charming piazzas and pretty harbour.
- 9
Day 9 Piombino.
Piombino, a picturesque town on the Tuscan coast of Italy, enjoys a fine setting overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Spend the morning exploring the old town, where narrow streets, historic buildings and local markets provide an insight into life in this historic coastal town or perhaps take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views towards the Tuscan archipelago. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a final afternoon sailing to Livorno.
- 10
Day 10 Livorno to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Pisa airport for our scheduled flight to London.
The Ship
Sea Cloud Spirit
Sea Cloud Spirit is a magnificent three-mast sailing ship which combines the traditional windjammer experience with 21st century comfort. This remarkable vessel which accommodates a maximum of just 136 passengers was launched in 2021 by our longtime German associates Sea Cloud Cruises. Sea Cloud Spirit offers an exceptional sailing experience defined by luxury, comfort, and refined service. Standing on the dock and looking up at Sea Cloud Spirit you cannot help but be impressed by the sheer majesty of her and walk up the gangway and onto the deck and she is even more impressive. The splendour does not end here; below deck is a sumptuous world of traditional maritime influences with 21st century luxuries. Well-appointed staterooms, suites and public areas create a restful atmosphere totally in keeping with the overall grandeur of the vessel. The exquisite Sea Cloud Spirit benefits further from a generous number of cabins with balconies, an extensive sun deck with sunbeds, a gym with panoramic views, a relaxing spa and wellness area as well as the option to choose between an elegant menu in the restaurant and a relaxed dinner in the bistro on the lido deck in the evenings.
Deck plan
Life aboard Sea Cloud Spirit
Sea Cloud Spirit is a three-mast sailing ship launched in 2021 that blends the traditional windjammer experience with modern luxury. Accommodating just 136 passengers, the vessel offers an intimate, yacht-like atmosphere suited to travellers seeking refined comfort and a unique sailing experience.
Quick facts
Passengers
136
Crew
85
Launched
2021
Length
138 metres
Flag
Malta
Suites
The ship features five categories of accommodation ranging from 15 to 36m2, all equipped with 21st-century amenities including mini-bars and adjustable air-conditioning. Suites and Deluxe cabins offer varying configurations of panoramic windows, balconies, or portholes.
- •All accommodation includes bathrobes, hairdryers, private safe, telephone, and TV.
- •Owner's and Junior Suites feature balconies, walk-in closets, and bathtubs.
- •Deluxe Lido cabins feature opening panoramic windows and showers.
- •Deluxe and Superior cabins on the Cabin Deck are equipped with portholes and showers.
- •Most cabins can be configured as twin or double, but select cabins have fixed double beds.
Life on board
The atmosphere is friendly and informal, designed to feel more like a private yacht than a conventional cruise ship. Guests can relax in elegant public spaces or make use of extensive wellness facilities and water sports equipment.
- •Public areas include an elegant lounge with Steinway piano, library, and lido bar.
- •Wellness facilities feature a sauna, steam bath, relaxation room, and beauty parlour.
- •Sun Deck includes sun loungers, circular sunbeds, and a shower.
- •Water sports equipment and four Zodiacs available for use.
- •The ship is equipped with a lift servicing all decks.
Dining
Dining on board is high-quality with flexible seating and a choice between the restaurant or the more relaxed lido bistro. The cruise is full board, with wine, beer, soft drinks, tea, and coffee included.
- •Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style; dinner is a four-course à la carte affair.
- •Vegetarian options are always available at dinner.
- •Guests can choose their place and company at tables of four, six, or eight.
- •Dietary requirements should be requested in advance and reconfirmed with the Chef or Maître D' upon arrival.
- •Lunches often feature barbecue options and locally caught fish.
Practical information
The ship combines sailing tradition with modern safety and operational standards. Essential services like medical care, laundry, and satellite communication are available, though guests should prepare for specific connectivity and environmental policies.
- •Dress code is smart-casual in the evening and sophisticated summer wear during the day.
- •Smoking is prohibited inside the ship, on balconies, and on the Sun Deck.
- •Wi-Fi via Starlink is available with 10GB free data allowance.
- •Electrical outlets are 220V with two round pin European sockets.
- •Gratuities are included in the holiday price.
- •Onboard medical facilities include a ship's doctor.
Ship information may be subject to operational change. Please contact us for the latest details before booking.
Departures & pricing
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 27 September to 6 October 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| E Superior Stateroom - Cabin Deck | £6995 | £5995 |
| D Deluxe Stateroom - Cabin Deck | £7995 | £6995 |
| C Grand Stateroom - Lido Deck | £8995 | £7995 |
| B Junior Veranda Suite - Veranda Deck | £10495 | £9495 |
| A Veranda Suite - Veranda Deck | £11795 | £10795 |
| E Superior Stateroom for sole use - Cabin Deck | £9995 | £8995 |
| D Deluxe Stateroomfor sole use - Cabin Deck | £10995 | £9995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSCS270927
PRICE INCLUDES:
• Economy class scheduled air travel • Nine nights aboard Sea Cloud Spirit on a full board basis • House wine and beer with lunch & dinner • All standard soft drinks whilst on board • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes
Not Included:
- Travel insurance
- Shore excursions
Please note that availability and prices shown on our website are not updated in real time and may change. For the latest availability and pricing, please call 0800 678 3787