Sea Cloud Spirit on track for August 2020 debut

‘Since the tests were successful and the shipyard is running on time, the new ship’s maiden voyage is on track for Aug. 29, 2020,’ Sea Cloud Cruises CEO Daniel Schaefer said.

Private-yacht atmosphere

The 453-foot, three-masted sailing ship can accommodate up to 136 passengers and, like Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II, it will offer a casually elegant sailing experience with the atmosphere of a private yacht.

The flagship Sea Cloud, in fact, was built as a private yacht by the American multimillionaires Edward F. Hutton and Marjorie Merriweather Post in 1931 at the Germania shipyard in Kiel. Following a rich and varied history, the 361-foot, four-masted barque has been operated by Sea Cloud Cruises for the last 40 years.

Sail power or low-sulfur fuel only

Sea Cloud Spirit will have 13,500 square feet of sails, twice the size of the current US Coast Guard training ship, Cutter Eagle. Since sailing is not possible all the time, the vessel is equipped with two diesel-electric drives. Only low-sulfur marine diesel will be used.

‘The use of heavy oil was never an option for us. We offer a sustainable experience that works in harmony with nature and the people whose countries we visit,’ Schaefer said

Interior outfitting has begun

Interior outfitting has already begun. The interiors, by Hamburg-based Partner Ship Design, evoke the style of an elegant classic yacht.

Of the 69 ocean-view cabins, 25 have their own balconies. An elevator will connect the decks. A fine dining restaurant and a casual dining experience on the lido deck are planned. Sea Cloud Spirit will have a wellness/spa venue, too.