This German company operates two distinctive ocean-cruise sailing vessels - Sea Cloud I and II - and the unique little River Cloud II, their sole river-cruiser, sailing extensively through Europe from April to October in genuine five-star luxury.
Built in 2001 and carrying just 88 guests, this bijou bateau is generously decorated in classic style and sports plenty of teak wood and brass for an opulent river-going effect. The 35-strong crew aim to make every voyage a highly personalised experience, hence this is definitely one of the more one-off river voyages.
The elegant Restaurant is a real highlight on board, and there is a lounge/library, extensive Sun Deck and even a boutique with its own hairdresser, showcasing Sea Cloud's more personal touch.
The range of cruises is impressive, too, from Lake IJssel in the Netherlands to the Danube delta on the Black Sea.
STOP PRESS: Cruise industry source Seatrade Insider resported on December 20 that Sea Cloud Cruises are to sell off their riverboat to an as-yet undisclosed buyer at the end of 2014, and it will leave the German cruise market. It will not affect any cruises in 2014, though.
WHERE DO THEY GO: Rhine, Danube.
