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European Sailing Cruises

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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 2025-2026

Explore Sibenik on the Dalmatian Coast

Italy, Montenegro & Croatia

12 Days from $3,870
Set sail on a 12-day Royal Clipper cruise through the Mediterranean, visiting stunning destinations like Venice, Dubrovnik, and Syracuse. Experience rich history and culture while enjoying scenic views and a relaxing day at sea before concluding in Civitavecchia, near Rome.
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Walking in Santorini

Southern Cyclades

8 Days from $2,410
Set sail for 8 days on the Star Flyer, exploring historic Aegean ports from Piraeus to Rhodes and Bodrum while enjoying stunning views in Santorini and Hydra. Experience local culture, cuisine, and relaxation, culminating in a memorable return to Piraeus.
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Church in the center of Marpissa, Paros, Greece

Jewels of the Cyclades

8 Days from $2,500
Set sail on an 8-day cruise aboard the Galileo, exploring the beautiful Cyclades from Athens to islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Folegandros. Enjoy swim stops, cultural experiences, and delightful Cycladic cuisine on this unforgettable journey.
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Seabirds flying over dramatic ocean island cliffs St Kilda

Wild Scotland

12 Days from $13,595
Set sail on a 12-day cruise from Edinburgh to Aberdeen aboard the Sylvia Earle, exploring Scotland's untamed islands. Discover the ancient Hebrides and lush Orkney Islands, encounter wildlife along scenic coastlines, and experience local culture in charming villages while enjoying Scotland's renowned whisky.
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Adventures in Santorini!

Sailing the Greek Isles

8 Days from $12,709
Explore the sun-kissed Greek Isles on this 8 luxury cruise aboard the Sea Cloud, a 58-guest sailboat. Each stop on this round trip cruise from Piraeus is brimming with activities, such as exploring the sanctuary ruins of Delos, the iconic cliffside villages of Santorini, and the Classical Greek culture and mythology.
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Grass covers the houses of the Faroe Islands, blending them into the landscape.

Scotland, The Faroe Islands, & Iceland: North Atlantic Saga

11 Days from $10,995
Explore Scotland on this 11-day Scotland, The Faroe Islands, & Iceland: North Atlantic Saga cruise on board the Exploris One. Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Isle of Skye, the Faroe Islands, and the Westman Islands. Cruise past towering cliffs, explore picturesque fjords and immerse yourself in Nordic traditions.
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Sant'Amanza beach, Corsica, France

Ligurian Sea

8 Days from $2,570
Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the Royal Clipper, sailing from Nice to Monaco while discovering beautiful coastal towns and rich cultural landmarks. Enjoy vibrant local cuisine, stunning beaches, and history in France, Italy, and Monaco.
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View of Hvar, Croatia

Croatia & Montenegro

8 Days from $2,460
Join this 8-day voyage aboard the Royal Clipper, sailing from Venice across the Adriatic to explore Croatia and Montenegro. Discover the charming destinations of Zadar, Hvar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Korcula, and Rovinj before returning to the floating city.
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Grass-roofed houses of the Faroe Islands

Wild lands of Scotland, the Faroe Islands and Iceland

12 Days from $10,770
Discover the beauty of Europe’s wild west coast on this 12-day cruise from Glasgow to Reykjavik aboard the Le Laperouse. Journey through historic cities and picturesque landscapes, blending rich cultural experiences with natural scenery. Explore Belfast’s Titanic history, visit Lerwick, and witness the wildlife-rich cliffs of the Faroe Islands.
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Wander through the vibrant streets of Barcelona

A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean - with Smithsonian Journeys

9 Days from $10,270
Embark on a 9-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Nice aboard Le Dumont-d'Urville. Visit Palma de Mallorca's stunning coves, and explore Mahon’s historic charm. See Sardinia’s medieval town of Alghero, followed by the scenic beaches of Ile-Rousse in Corsica. Discover Napoleon’s legacy in Portoferraio and more.
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4 Best Luxury Sailing Cruises in Europe for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Westbound Atlantic Ocean Crossing $4,820 25 Oct 29, 2025 Embark on a 25-day cruise aboard the Star Flyer, visiting Malaga, Gibraltar, Tangier, Cadiz, Safi, Arrecife, Puerto del Rosario, Las Palmas, San Sebastian, and Philipsburg. Explore historic sites, natural beauty, charming towns, golden beaches, and unique shopping experiences.
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Italy, Montenegro & Croatia $3,450 12 May 31, 2025 Embark on a 12-day cruise aboard Star Flyer, cruising through Italy, Montenegro, and Croatia. Experience historic ports, Mediterranean cuisine, and scenic beauty while enjoying the comfort of a traditional sailing ship.
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Six Island in Easter Bouquet $10,930 10 Apr 17, 2025 Spend 10 days sailing through the Canary Islands, experiencing diverse landscapes from volcanic peaks to white beaches, with stops at historic towns and UNESCO Biosphere Reserves aboard Sea Cloud Spirit, including Gran Canaria, San Sebastián, Santa Cruz, Funchal, and Arrecife.
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Grand Voyage: Malaga to Cannes $4,220 16 Apr 25, 2025 Sail to an impressive collection of ports on this 16-day Grand Voyage, from the stunning Balearic Islands off Eastern Spain to quixotic tiny port towns along the Spanish and French Rivieras to the stylish and romantic city of Cannes. Relax aboard the Star Flyer and enjoy the life of a true sailor.
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9 Best Sailing Cruise Ships in Europe for 2025-2026

Ship Name Max Passengers From Summary
Sea Cloud 64 $3,980 With occupancy for just 64 guests, the Sea Cloud is a modern and elegant windjammer outfitted with modern amenities and uniquely decorated cabins. Multiple decks allow you to enjoy the ambiance of the Mediterranean & Caribbean Seas in tranquility as the wind guides the journey.
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Sea Cloud II 94 $7,990 The Sea Cloud II is a legendary windjammer comparable to her sister ship, the Sea Cloud. Featuring her own unique character, the Sea Cloud II combines the high standards expected of a 5-star cruise ship with the unique atmosphere of a romantic tall ship.
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Royal Clipper 227 $1,260 The Royal Clipper is the largest full-rigged sailing ship in the world, carrying just 227 privileged guests aboard. She offers the ultimate tall ship sailing experience, balancing the grandeur, adventure, and tradition of sailing with the superb service, amenities, and accommodations of the finest modern yacht. .
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Sea Cloud (LI) 58 $12,709 The 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 wife the heiress, Marjorie Merriweather Post.
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Star Flyer 170 $1,630 The Star Flyer is a stylish vessel designed to accommodate 170 passengers in an intimate and comfortable atmosphere. This true clipper ship reflects its proud heritage in every inch of its polished brass and gleaming brightwork. The décor of Star Flyer is reminiscent of the grand age of sail with spacious accommodations and expansive teak decks.
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Star Clipper 170 $1,930 Star Clipper is a 170-passenger vessel designed to provide a unique traveling experience unlike any other cruise vacation. Step aboard and discover a new age of sailing, where the traditions of the past are happily married to the comforts and amenities of the present day.
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Panorama 49 $2,500 Renovated 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 accommodates up to 49 passengers in 25 cabins. This state-of-the-art sail cruiser offers the highest standard of accommodation.
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Galileo 49 $1,950 Board the classic Galileo, a motor sailer with occupancy for up to 49 passengers, as you explore the Cyclades of the Aegean Sea. Multiple social areas onboard the ship include a lounge, spacious sun deck, dining room, and outdoor deck and bar. There are also 3 cabin categories between the two decks, offering guests several options to choose from.
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Rembrandt van Rijn 33 $3,700 The Rembrandt Van Rijn was built as a herring lugger early last century and has undergone extensive retrofitting making it suitable for arctic explorations. With just 33 guests, explore the polar waters aboard this sailing vessel.
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Guide to European Sailing Cruises

Visit charming Passau

European Cruise: When to Go?

Europe is an incredible destination all year long. However, there may be better months to visit based on your personal interests & preferences. Weather, activity options, & festivals are just a few of the factors that could determine when you travel. Here is some insight into best times for a Europe river cruise.
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Trevi Fountain in Rome

Italy Overview

This boot-shaped peninsula is a country almost every traveler longs to visit! Ancient history, rich culture, world-renowned cuisine, & iconic landmarks are just a few of the reasons travel to Italy is so appealing. Our brief introduction to the geography, culture & attractions of this popular destination will help prepare you for your own Italy experience!
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Witness the Changing of the Guard in Athens

Greece Overview

Often called the cradle of western civilization, Greece maintains a rich culture that has evolved over thousands of years and has influenced people throughout the world. With so much history and deep-rooted traditions, travel to this destination evokes a truly unique sense of cultural romance.
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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!
Walking in Santorini

Introduction to the Mediterranean

Summer is the high travel season in the Mediterranean. The best time to take a Mediterranean cruise, however, is in the spring (May-June) or fall (September-October).
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Best European Small Ship Cruise Lines for 2025-2026
  • 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 travel requirements on the U.S. Department of State website.  

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