Malaga to Gran Canaria Gay Cruise 2016 Aboard Luxury 5-Star Sea Cloud II
10 days Cruise from Malaga, Spain to Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
November 2 – 11, 2016
Sea Cloud Cruises Sea Cloud II
The magical culture of the Moors, fairytale Morocco and the picture-perfect Canary Islands: Málaga – Las Palmas. Sail with the trade winds through the ever-changing landscapes and culture of Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands for 9 deluxe nights on the 5-star sailing cruise ship Sea Cloud II.
In late autumn the reliable trade winds and the Canaries' mild climate ensure ideal sailing conditions. The day is yours to relish the wonderful windjammer experience however you please. And when the Sea Cloud ii drops anchor in the afternoon or early evening, there will still be plenty of time to explore the surrounding area.
The diversity of the Canary Islands
Gran Canaria, Tenerife, El Hierro, La Palma and La Gomera – during this cruise you will discover the two bigger and three smaller Canary Islands. Walking along the promenades, through narrow alleyways or alongside the sea, you will experience the diverse character of these islands: from cosmopolitan style in Las Palmas to quiet introspection in rustic San Sebastián.
Nature at its best
The Garajonay and Caldera de Taburiente national parks
Magical trade mists, gnarled pine trees, babbling head streams – when the Garajonay and Caldera de Taburiente national parks were created, the Canary Islands guaranteed protection for two of its most out- standing ecosystems. Whilst Garajonay's misty evergreen forest boasts over 1,000 animal species, Caldera de Taburiente impresses with an enormous, rugged volcanic crater.
A lecturer accompanies the trip
A lecturer will accompany you on this trip, delivering interesting and informative talks on a range of specialist subjects.
The Sea Cloud II: a very special cruise ship.
The Sea Cloud II can be recognised as the true sister ship of the legendary Sea Cloud, but has its own, very unique character. It combines the high standards expected of a modern cruise ship with the unique atmosphere of a romantic tall ship.
Classic, nostalgic,
elegant. The lounge, the library, the restaurant, the cabins and the gym are all imbued with stylish comfort. Every area has its own way of enticing visitors, so you will still discover new favourite places even after days. The decks of the Sea Cloud II are therefore an ideal place to transform any journey into a very special experience - for couples, groups of friends, anniversary parties or larger events.
Since it was commissioned over ten years ago, the SEA CLOUD II has never ceased to enchant and impress people. Not only is it a modern and elegant cruise ship, but a very private yacht. While discerning cruise-lovers will discover their passion for classic sailing ships, sailing enthusiasts will become devotees of great voyages.
The Sea Cloud II – a three-masted barque.
With a total length of 117 metres and 23 sails, which also cover a surface area of around 3,000 square metres, the Sea Cloud II is a three-masted barque which was added to our fleet of wind-powered ocean liners in 2001. By using the most up-to-date materials, ranging from metal in the yards and masts to innovative plastics in the sails and the rigging, it has become possible to increase the size of the masts and sails so that two yard masts and one gaff mast can almost match the performance of a four-masted barque. Experts refer to the SEA CLOUD II just as a "barque" because the number of masts only needs to be specified if the vessel has more than three of them.
How the sails provide natural stabilisation. The Sea Cloud II is equipped with the most up-to-date navigation systems and safety features, while offering the comfort and luxury of a five-star cruise liner; however, the masts and rigging recall the age of the historic windjammers.
Even though modern sails are no longer made of hemp or wool, but instead of modern plastic fibres, experienced sailors today - just like their counterparts of the last century - still go high up into the rigging to hoist and fasten the sails. This is all about skilful manual work, as opposed to computer-based operation.
Sea Cloud II has outstanding seafaring performance and tranquil character on the high seas. With a shallow draught of under six metres but a considerable mast height of over 55 metres, the ship is stabilised by the enormous lever arms, which, once the sails have been set, have an incredibly effective cushioning effect on the ship's movement. When sailing in good weather conditions along the routes we select for the different seasons, all you can often feel is the sensation of gliding gently across the sea.
A tall ship that combines nostalgic flair with a modern twist.
You can spend days familiarising yourself with the ship's forecastle, the bridge, the library and all the lovely places to visit on the deck of the Sea Cloud II. The atmosphere is free and easy, the dress code is casual and interaction is only ever spontaneous. The traditional rules of cruise travel might as well be thrown overboard; on board this tall ship you can travel the way you like, when you like.
The restaurant
In the restaurant you will find tables for couples and groups of four, six and eight. The lido deck is often an inviting place to have lunch or an evening barbecue out in the open air. No matter whether you are sitting inside or outside, you can all enjoy this feast for the senses together in the same sitting. And since you are dining on a tall ship with the character of a private yacht, you are free to choose your place and company at the table. Our culinary creations are sure to impress even the most discerning of connoisseurs - it is easy to see why the Sea Cloud II was chosen to join the exclusive Chaîne des Rôtisseurs group.
The lounge and the library
In the middle of the lido deck you will find the spacious lounge. At certain times you will hear gentle music from the Steinway piano and, on selected cruises, you can listen to some interesting talks.
On the same deck you will find the library which contains selected literature, DVDs, popular board games, the Sea Cloud II's intriguing guest book and a laptop with internet access. But this is not just a place to get engrossed in reading; you should also enjoy the breathtaking all-round view of the ship's forecastle - do not forget that you are on board a majestic tall ship!
Onboard life
To watch the movement of the sails and all the traditional tasks associated with a tall ship is for many people one of the most wonderful experiences on the high seas. On all the decks you will of course find many traditional deckchairs and benches on which you can sit alone or in a small group, gazing out to sea. On the sun deck you will also find two large sun loungers and the bridge. The officers will be happy to welcome you into the command centre - manoeuvres permitting.
Our snorkelling equipment can be taken ashore at any time. The on-board zodiac boats do not only take you ashore and back to the Sea Cloud II, but are also used to tow the "Fun Island", our inflatable water sled for those who fancy some high-speed fun! Depending on sea conditions, the swim platform provides direct access to the largest swimming pool in the world: the sea. And in the evening, the lido deck is a wonderful place to wind down with a nice drink. You might also be entertained by our Crew Shanty Choir
Fitness and sport
Fitness enthusiasts can use the 100-metre long lido deck as their running/walking circuit while taking in all the different views which you can expect on board a tall ship. For others, our morning exercise sessions are just the way to start a new day. In the smart fitness studio, you will find dumbbells, bikes, treadmills and step machines for more focused workouts, and the adjoining sauna area will enhance your general well-being. Furthermore, we provide a range of spa services on board the Sea Cloud II (massages and beauty treatments at additional cost), using the finest products from Maria Galland.
On a course bound for sweetest dreams
Privately tucked away on the lido deck, the two owner suites feature panoramic windows. The promenade deck holds 16 junior suites and two deluxe outer cabins which also have panoramic windows. Exuding a more maritime appeal, the 27 deluxe outer cabins on the cabin deck have traditional portholes. Three of these cabins are fitted with an upper and lower bunk - as was customary on traditional windjammers. And, of course, all the cabins have small sitting areas, a bright ambience, brightly coloured, spacious marble baths and plenty of space for all your personal belongings.
No matter which cabin you choose, the cabin service will provide everything you need. Your pretty maritime home is tidied twice a day, the fruit bowl is refilled, and the daily programme is left out for you to read (not to mention all the extra little touches...).
Malaga to Gran Canaria Gay Cruise Itinerary
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
02 Nov
Malaga, Spain
19:00
03 Nov
Day at Sea
04 Nov
Casablanca, Morocco
08:00
18:00
05 Nov
Day at Sea
06 Nov
Agadir, Morocco
08:00
24:00
07 Nov
Day at Sea
08 Nov
Arrecife, Lanzarote
14:00
09 Nov
Arrecife, Lanzarote
07:00
09 Nov
Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura
14:00
24:00
10 Nov
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
18:00
11 Nov
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Malaga, Spain - November 2, 2016 Málaga has spruced itself up. In 2003, the Museo Picasso opened in a 16th century Renaissance palace and is dedicated to the artist's extensive life's work. This historic old city invites you to take a stroll and its buildings gleam like new. And above everything towers the Alcazaba, a mighty walled fortress. The port was completely redesigned when the city was opened to the sea and you can now take a lovely stroll along the promenade. In Málaga's hinterland you can see the most beautiful aspects of traditional Andalusia. From a distance the typical Andalusian villages look like white dabs of paint shining out from the brown of the barren mountain landscape.
Guests arrive individually in Malaga. Embarkation on the Sea Cloud II. Sailing time is 1900 hours.
Casablanca, Morocco - November 4, 2016 Around 90 kilometres (56 miles) from Casablanca is Rabat, one of the country's four imperial cities. This modern capital with its historic centre was accepted onto the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2012. Hassan Tower, Rabat's landmark, dates back to the time when the city was the Sultanate's capital. Close by, and yet built hundreds of years later, is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. You can find this regal residence in the elegant French-influenced residential quarter, Ville Nouvelle, with its boulevards and splendid Art Deco colonial buildings.
Excursion to Rabat with a visit to the Royal Palace and/or city tour Casablanca.
Agadir, Morocco - November 6, 2016
Taroudant, situated around 80 kilometres (50 miles) east of Agadir, was once the residence of a Berber king, a rich caravan centre and an important trading place. In front of the immense protective mud walls are sprawling olive and orange plantations, and the snow-covered peaks of the High Atlas rise up picturesquely in the background. Through one of the five vast city gates you can reach the lively medina with its numerous souks where you can bargain for Berber handicrafts, leather goods, silver jewellery and the famous argan oil. The city is affectionately known as the "Little Sister of Marrakech".
Excursion to Taroudant or Marrakech.
Arrecife, Lanzarote - November 8 & 9, 2016
The "Island of Fire", a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, has been continually recreated by volcanic eruptions. A third of Lanzarote is a bizarre lunar landscape of barren, beige-grey lines of hills and "fire mountains". In sharp contrast to this are the snow white houses, golden beaches and sparse green vegetation. Its quaint wine-growing areas of La Geria have been declared an all-embracing art form by the Museum of Modern Art. The painter, sculptor and architect César Manrique understood art as the link between man and nature and made a vital contribution to the look of his island home through his artistic creations.
César Manrique's Lanzarote. Special event: an evening in César Manrique's sculpted
lava chambers
Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura - November 9, 2016 The Istmo de la Pared is the narrowest part of Fuerteventura and divides the island into two parts - Maxorata in the north and the Jandía peninsula in the south. With its statuesque fine sand dunes of Corralejo on the northern tip and the kilometre (miles)-long golden yellow sandy beaches in the south, Fuerteventura's savage and austere beauty evokes the spellbinding North African deserts, not far away. Even its name betrays the powerful relevance of the wind - sotavento and the leeward side conjures a gentle turquoise-coloured swell on the wide sandy beaches of the eastern coast.
Trike tour around the island interior.
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria - November 10 & 11, 2016
With its black volcano almost 2,000 metres (6,561 foot) high and endless white beaches along the coastline, the island of Gran Canaria displays a huge variety of landscapes. A "continent in miniature" with rugged rock formations, dense pine forests, dry valleys and reservoirs in the interior, lush vegetation in the north, shimmering dune landscapes in the south and weirdly shaped cliffs in the west. Almost half the island has been registered by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. The capital, Las Palmas, is no less colourful, with its port and history stretching back 500 years. The showpiece of this historic old town is the magnificent Santa Ana Cathedral.
Included services on Sea Cloud II
Our own 5-star style fulfils the highest demands, allows true relaxation and real pleasure. All the special little details and extras, which are included on board the Sea Cloud Cruises yachts in the cruise rate, are also part of it. And so you can expect simply more from us.
Here is our overview of the main services included:
• Beautifully appointed cabin in selected category
• Welcoming bottle of champagne in your cabin
• All meals (six per day) from early-bird breakfast to the exquisite 4-course dinner menu with choice of main course
• 5-course gala dinner during the cruise
• Welcome and farewell cocktail with champagne
• Selected wines and beers thoughtfully chosen to complement lunch and dinner
• All soft drinks and juices throughout the cruise
• All alcohol-free coffee and tea specialties
• Bottled water on the excursions
• Fresh fruit basket in your cabin, replenished daily
• E-mails can be sent free of charge from the on-board laptop
• English-speaking tour guide
• Travel documents with detailed destination information
• All port fees
• The use of snorkelling and waterskiing equipment is free of charge
• Free laundry service for cat. A+B cabin guests
Included beverages on a seven-night cruise valued at approx. € 300 (US$ 400) per person.
Normal Rate Price ($USD) Double Occupancy (for comparison)
GTY double cabin**
**Guaranteed cabins: There is only a limited allotment available for these categories.
$ 4655
$ 5295
Category F Cabin Deck
Upper-/lower-bed cabins No. 204-206These cabins are in the traditional windjammer style with upper and lower beds. They are located on the Cabin Deck. Approx. 14 m˛ / 150 sq ft. Two portholes, chair, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, adjustable A/C. Bathroom Approx. 3 m˛ / 32 sq ft with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hair dryer, outlet for razor
$ 5515
$ 6155
Category E Cabin Deck
De luxe double-bed cabins No. 207-217, 224-231. The comfortable cabins in Category E are located on the Cabin Deck, where the hospital, sauna, swim platform and fitness area can be found. Approx. 19 m˛ / 204 sq ft - 20 m˛ / 215 sq ft. Two portholes, sofa, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, adjustable A/C. Queen size bed (180 cm x 200 cm); can be separated into two single beds. Bathroom Approx. 3 m˛ / 32 sq ft with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hair dryer, outlet for razor
$ 6655
$ 7295
Category D Cabin Deck
De luxe double-bed cabins No. 218-223. The Category D de luxe double-bed cabins are located on the Cabin Deck, where the hospital, sauna, swim platform and fitness area can be found. Approx. 21 m˛ / 226 sq ft. Three portholes, two chairs, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, adjustable A/C. Queen size bed (180 cm x 200 cm) with two separate mattresses. Bathroom - Approx. 3 m˛ / 32 sq ft with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hair dryer, outlet for razor
$ 7055
$ 7695
Category C Promenade Deck
De luxe double-bed cabins No. 301 and 302. The Category C deluxe double-bed cabins are located on the Promenade Deck, where the restaurant, boutique and the reception can be found. Approx. 20 m˛ / 215 sq ft. Panorama windows, two chairs, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, adjustable A/C. Queen size bed (180 cm x 200 cm) with two separate mattresses. Bathroom: Approx. 3 m˛ / 32 sq ft with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hair dryer, outlet for razor
$ 7715
$ 8355
Category B Promenade Deck
Junior suites No. 303-319. The spacious junior suites are conveniently located on the Promenade Deck, where the restaurant, boutique, and the reception can be found. Approx. 21,5 m˛ / 231 sq ft - 23 m˛ / 247 sq ft. Panorama window, seating area, decorative fireplace, console with TV/DVD and mini-bar, dressing table, walk-in closet, safe, adjustable A/C. Queen size bed (180 cm x 200 cm) with two separate mattresses; can be separated into two single beds. Bathroom: Approx. 3,2 m˛ / 34 sq ft with tub, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hair dryer, outlet for razor.
$ 9355
$ 9995
Category A Lido Deck
Luxury owner suites No. 401 and 402 The charming luxury owner suites are located on the Lido Deck where you can also find the library and the lounge. Unlike the owner suite no. 401 pictured, owner suite 402 is decorated in orange. Approx. 27 m˛ / 290 sq ft. Panorama window, sofa, table, chair, desk, decorative fireplace, TV and DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, four closets, safe, adjustable A/C. King size canopy bed with two separate mattresses (90 cm x 200 cm) Bathroom: Approx. 4,2 m˛ / 45 sq ft with tub and separate shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hair dryer, outlet for razor.
$ 10155
$ 10795
GTY single cabin**
**Guaranteed cabins: There is only a limited allotment available for these categories.
Around 90 kilometres (56 miles) from Casablanca is Rabat, one of the country's four imperial cities. This modern capital with its historic centre was accepted onto the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2012. Hassan Tower, Rabat's landmark, dates back to the time when the city was the Sultanate's capital. Close by, and yet built hundreds of years later, is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. You can find this regal residence in the elegant French-influenced residential quarter, Ville Nouvelle, with its boulevards and splendid Art Deco colonial buildings. 
Taroudant, situated around 80 kilometres (50 miles) east of Agadir, was once the residence of a Berber king, a rich caravan centre and an important trading place. In front of the immense protective mud walls are sprawling olive and orange plantations, and the snow-covered peaks of the High Atlas rise up picturesquely in the background. Through one of the five vast city gates you can reach the lively medina with its numerous souks where you can bargain for Berber handicrafts, leather goods, silver jewellery and the famous argan oil. The city is affectionately known as the "Little Sister of Marrakech". 
The "Island of Fire", a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, has been continually recreated by volcanic eruptions. A third of Lanzarote is a bizarre lunar landscape of barren, beige-grey lines of hills and "fire mountains". In sharp contrast to this are the snow white houses, golden beaches and sparse green vegetation. Its quaint wine-growing areas of La Geria have been declared an all-embracing art form by the Museum of Modern Art. The painter, sculptor and architect César Manrique understood art as the link between man and nature and made a vital contribution to the look of his island home through his artistic creations. 
The Istmo de la Pared is the narrowest part of Fuerteventura and divides the island into two parts - Maxorata in the north and the Jandía peninsula in the south. With its statuesque fine sand dunes of Corralejo on the northern tip and the kilometre (miles)-long golden yellow sandy beaches in the south, Fuerteventura's savage and austere beauty evokes the spellbinding North African deserts, not far away. Even its name betrays the powerful relevance of the wind - sotavento and the leeward side conjures a gentle turquoise-coloured swell on the wide sandy beaches of the eastern coast. 
With its black volcano almost 2,000 metres (6,561 foot) high and endless white beaches along the coastline, the island of Gran Canaria displays a huge variety of landscapes. A "continent in miniature" with rugged rock formations, dense pine forests, dry valleys and reservoirs in the interior, lush vegetation in the north, shimmering dune landscapes in the south and weirdly shaped cliffs in the west. Almost half the island has been registered by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. The capital, Las Palmas, is no less colourful, with its port and history stretching back 500 years. The showpiece of this historic old town is the magnificent Santa Ana Cathedral. 
