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European Sailing Cruises

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Jorde Angjelovik
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Sail the Mediterranean on a romantic sailboat like the Sea Cloud I & Sea Cloud II, Panorama, or Galileo, just a few of our featured European sailing yachts. Typically, these classic clippers, schooners, windjammers, and traditional European sailboats accommodate from 50-200 passengers and have a lounge, sun deck, bar & dining room, and various levels of cabins. Unlike bigger ships, they generally don't have amenities like gyms, boutiques, or spas, but what they lack in complexity, they make up for with an atmosphere of intimacy that the bigger vessels simply can't provide. Excursions visit coastal regions from the Adriatic to the Mediterranean and the UK. Several of these cruises even sail around the Canary Islands and Morocco. Contact one of our European sailing cruise experts for help designing your dream trip. 

Top 10 Sailing Cruise of Europe for 2024-2025

7 Best Luxury Sailing Cruises in Europe for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Take a Breather$70859Apr 4, 2024Join this 9-day Canary Islands adventure and discover the many facets of this region while exploring amazing destinations like Las Palmas, Santa …
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Rome to Cannes$19308Jun 1, 2024Embark on a Mediterranean voyage onboard a tall ship, stopping at ports known for their rich history, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and unmatched allure. …
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Transatlantic:Malaga to St.Maarten$418025Nov 6, 2024This once-in-a-lifetime sailing expedition starts at the tropical paradise island of St. Maarten and voyages across the Atlantic Ocean all the way to …
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Cruise Where the Merchants of Venice Sailed$69758Jul 29, 2024Enjoy this amazing 8-day journey across the wonderful Adriatic. See the magical locations this region has to offer, Be a part of this bucket list …
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Malaga to Rome$21709Apr 26, 2024Embark on a 9-day trip from Malaga to Rome aboard Star Flyer, exploring Moorish marvels, coastal charm, and cultural gems in Southern Spain. Enjoy a …
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Dream of A Lifetime: Transatlantic Crossing$1572518Nov 26, 2024Be a part of a unique 18-day Transatlantic sailing experience aboard the luxurious Sea Cloud. Cruise across the magnificent Atlantic Ocean on your …
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The Beautiful Greens of the Canary Islands$64758Nov 13, 2024The legendary wind-jammer Sea Cloud hosts this 8-day itinerary of the Canary Islands
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9 Best Sailing Cruise Ships in Europe for 2024-2025

Ship NameMax PassengersFromSummary
Sea Cloud64$6175With occupancy for just 64 guests, the Sea Cloud is a modern and elegant windjammer outfitted with modern amenities and uniquely decorated cabins. …
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Sea Cloud II94$3455The Sea Cloud II is a legendary windjammer comparable to her sister ship, the Sea Cloud. Featuring her own unique character, the Sea Cloud II …
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Royal Clipper227$910The Royal Clipper is the largest full-rigged sailing ship in the world, carrying just 227 privileged guests aboard. She offers the ultimate tall ship …
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Sea Cloud (LI)58$13790The Sea Cloud is a glorious and gracious luxury sailing yacht, a four-masted bark, custom built in 1931 by the business magnate E.F. Hutton for his …
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Star Flyer170$1430The Star Flyer is a stylish vessel designed to accommodate 170 passengers in an intimate and comfortable atmosphere. This true clipper ship reflects …
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Star Clipper170$1660Star Clipper is a 170-passenger vessel designed to provide a unique traveling experience unlike any other cruise vacation. Step aboard and discover a …
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Panorama49$3090Renovated in 2014 the the Panorama offers its guests a refitted Upper Deck cabins as well as the Main Deck cabin en suite bathrooms and Lounge. It …
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Galileo49$1950Board the classic Galileo, a motor sailer with occupancy for up to 49 passengers, as you explore the Cyclades of the Aegean Sea. Multiple social …
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Rembrandt van Rijn33$3350The Rembrandt Van Rijn was built as a herring lugger early last century and has undergone extensive retrofitting making it suitable for arctic …
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Guide to European Sailing Cruises

Important Information for Sailing Cruises of Europe
Cruises aboard a classic sailing schooner are perhaps one of the unique ways to experience the sun-kissed shores and ports of Mediterranean Europe. 

Occupancy?
This runs the gamut - there are yachts with a capacity for just 50 passengers offering a more intimate experience and those that host well over 200.

What if there's no wind?
While that's really never a problem on the breezy Mediterranean, these are all motor schooners, meaning that they supplement their primary wind power with a motor to make sure they stick to the itinerary no matter the wind.

What are the onboard amenities and facilities?
Since these ships range in size, the onboard facilities vary. You can expect an ample lounge and bar/ dining area, plus spacious cabins on all of them. The larger vessels even offer many of the spaces of standard cruise ships, like swimming pools, multiple restaurants, exercise centers, and more!
Best European Small Ship Cruise Lines for 2024-2025
  • CroisiEurope. A French independent family business for 45 years, has established itself as the European leader in river cruises and specialized in intimate-sized cruises on rivers, canals, and seas since 1976.
  • Ponant takes you to discover exceptional European destinations within an entirely 5-star setting while offering you a travel experience that is both authentic and high-end.
  • Silversea Cruises explores the elegant lifestyle of all-inclusive ultra-luxury cruising across European destinations aboard its intimate luxury cruise ships.
  • AMA Waterways celebrate 19 years on the river, family-owned and operated. Builders one-of-a-kind ships with added comforts and conveniences ranging from signature view-enhancing twin balconies to the one-and-only Chef's Table specialty restaurant, redefining the European river cruise experience.
  • European Waterways. Based in Berkshire, England, operates barge cruises on luxury vessels and discovers the best Europe's canals and rivers. 
  • Star Clippers Americas. The acknowledged specialist in sailing cruises for more than 30 years, has been sharing the European dream with thousands of passengers from all over the world onboard its three legendary tall ships.
  • Lindblad Expeditions. Built on a legacy of over 50 years as a leader in responsible travel and sustainability, it is a 100% carbon neutral company committed to green business operations and preserving our planet for future generations.
  • Sea Cloud Cruises sail passion by tradition, where the sails are traditionally set by hand – is a real workpiece. It is always a spectacular moment when the sailors climb the rigging, loosen the heavy cloth, and then powerfully tension the lines on deck.
  • Emerald Waterways is a cruise line headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, that cruises Europe's most beautiful rivers & coastline. 
  • Variety Cruises embarks on life-enriching European journeys, ample leisure time in each port including overnights, engage with local cultures, and get involved in social responsibility.
  • Aurora Expeditions. Make the most of its size advantage to create intimate European expeditions. The world's best expedition specialists accompany you on each journey. Remote area specialists, their onboard lectures entertain and expand your knowledge.  
  • Hurtigruten sailed the Norwegian coast since 1893, faithfully serving communities and showing international guests their home for almost 130 years. 

 

Europe Sailing Cruise FAQs

Will my vessel have WiFi?
It's possible, but don't count on it. More and more vessels each year are WiFi capable, but it's not quite standard yet. Plus, you might be out of range of WiFi even if your vessel does have it depending on where your cruise explores. Closer to the big cities, you can generally count on it.

What kind of power outlets are there? Will I need a converter?
In Europe the power is 220v, not the 110v like in North America, but typically devices can handle both without the need for a converter. You will need plug adapters for either two round prongs (European style) or three flat prongs (British style).

How can I save money on a sailing cruise?
If you're hoping to save money on a European schooner cruise, then check out our Deals & Promotions page to find the best offers each season. We can also help you track the boats of your choice and let you know when there are specials and deals that you might be interested in. We advise travelers to avoid saving money by booking cheaper cabins - cabins that save you a lot of money tend to sacrifice space and often the breathtaking views that make Mediterranean cruises in Europe such a wonderful experience.

Are European sailing cruises a good family vacation?
Certain European sailing cruises are great for family vacations - look for cruises that have activities perfect for the ages of your family members. If you are traveling with kids, then the cruises with lots of easy activities are ideal. If you have adolescents, then consider an active cruise, with opportunities for biking, hiking, and faster-paced exploration. Among adults, the cultural and wine-tasting cruises are a popular option. There's a perfect cruise for every family.

Do Americans and Canadians need a passport and visa to travel on European schooner cruises?
All citizens of North America traveling to and throughout Europe need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. Due to changes in visa laws in recent years, it is not necessary to apply for a visa before traveling to Europe as long as you plan to stay less than three months. These laws are subject to change in the future. Make sure to check current European visa requirements.  

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