sea cloud yacht owner

How the Sea Cloud went from private yacht to cruise ship

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A private yacht with an eventful history

Golden swan-shaped water taps, magnificent marble fireplaces, French antiques – as heiress to a fortune worth millions, Marjorie Merriweather Post was able to give free rein to her imagination when building her private yacht, which was launched in Kiel in 1931. Even today, every detail on the SEA CLOUD radiates the glamour of a bygone era. Her elegance seems timeless, as she has retained her unconventional charm.

Captain Sergey Komakin & Captain John Svendsen

• Public areas
• Ground Plan

CAT. A Owners’ Suite 1

Like all the original accommodations, Marjorie Merriweather Post furnished the owner’s suites herself. Whenever she traveled aboard the SEA CLOUD, these posh, private quarters were her home, so she outfitted them in opulence. Today, her personal owners’ suite maintains her exquisite touch with white Carrara marble in the fireplace and bathroom, gold-plated swan fixtures, Louis Philippe chairs, an elaborate floor-to-ceiling dressing mirror and ornate golden-trimmed ceilings. The high-end design and furnishings reflect the successful entrepreneur’s penchant for luxuriating on this private yacht in ultimate comfort.

• approx. 410 sq. ft.
• Marble bathroom approx. 97 sq. ft. with shower and bathtub
• dressing table and golden fittings
• California king bed, 71 x 79 in.
• walk-in closet
• marble fireplace (electric)

CAT. A Owners’ Suite 2

In addition to her exquisite taste, Marjorie’s attention to detail is also on display in the owners’ suites, richly reflected in the chambers of her first husband Edward Hutton, who gifted her the majestic SEA CLOUD sailing yacht. The maple wood paneling and furnishings create a feeling of warmth and solidity offset by a light, coffered ceiling. Hutton’s bureau-bookcase secretary with mirrored glass is a particularly stunning piece. In contrast to her white bath, his is done in red Carrara marble and includes a chest of drawers and golden fixtures.

• approx. 366 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 97 sq. ft. with shower and bathtub

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 3

The hospitality Marjorie cultivated still characterizes a stay on board the SEA CLOUD today. The original colonial style of this deluxe suite continues to welcome guests with the posh comforts and ambiance of a private yacht. Renowned nobility, celebrities and industry titans have all called these deluxe suites home on legendary sailings.

• approx. 258 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 43 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• two twin beds, 36 in. x 79 in.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 4

Throughout the commissioned construction of the SEA CLOUD in Kiel, Germany, and later when Marjorie was already living on board, she collected precious antiques from all over the world. This deluxe suite is one of the many examples of how skillfully she integrated the valuable pieces into the interior, and thus, into the overall appearance and ambiance of her private luxury yacht.

• approx. 237 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 54 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• queen bed, 63 in. x 79 in.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 5

Marjorie frequently mentioned her goal of making family, friends and notable guests feel at home every minute on board the SEA CLOUD. Accordingly, she designed spaces like this deluxe suite to feel like the ultimate in comfort, five-star accommodations. Antique mahogany chests of drawers, marble in the bathroom and by the fireplace and unique pieces create cozy elegance.

• approx. 215 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 58 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• two twin beds arranged as a double, 36 in. x 79 in. each

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 6

Exclusive getaways on the SEA CLOUD are also journeys through time. The original design and decor of the deluxe suites feel like a portal to a bygone era of glamor. In the spirit of private yachting, this antique mahogany furniture was selected so as not to overwhelm the space, and the fabric palettes complement the light ambiance of elevated comfort.

• approx. 194 sq. ft.

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 7

As the SEA CLOUD’s original owner, Marjorie designed the interiors of her luxury sailing yacht with such attention to detail because she wanted to offer her daughter, Dina Merrill, a wonderful and safe home on board. This is especially noticeable in this deluxe suite where Dina spent a large part of her childhood. The warm maple finishings stand out with dramatic mahogany inlays. The unusual floor plan, including an angled fireplace makes the space feel even larger.

• marble bathroom approx. 75 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub and golden fixtures

CAT. B Deluxe Suite 8

The main deck, where the original suites are located, is the heart and soul of the SEA CLOUD. This deluxe suite envelopes guests in its spirit of an exclusive private yacht. It is on display in the all the details, from fixtures to furnishings to finishings, complemented with a regal red and coral palette. Built-in cabinetry creates extra space.

• approx. 268 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 65 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• California king bed (2 mattresses), 71 x 79 in.
• additional fold-out bed

CAT. C Deluxe Suite 9

Deluxe Suites 9 and 10 are also part of the original accommodations on the main deck. Once used as single cabins for the former shipowners’ staff and their guests, they were redesigned into large luxury lodgings during renovation of the SEA CLOUD.

• marble bathroom approx. 35 sq. ft. with shower, bathtub, and golden fixtures
• generous storage space

CAT. C Deluxe Suite 10

The design of Deluxe Suites 9 and 10 is based on historical models with a modern aesthetic in warm fabrics and light wood tones. Both suites are located at the end of the original hallway and connect to the promenade deck by a separate staircase.

• approx. 198 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom approx. 39 sq. ft. with shower and golden fixtures

CAT. 1 Staterooms

Like all staterooms on the captain’s and lido deck, these two were built as recently as the late 1970s and offer all the comforts of private yacht accommodations. Panoramic windows cornering the head of the bed create a bright, airy vibe with views to match.

• approx. 140 sq. ft.
• marble bathroom with shower and golden fixtures
• queen bed (2 separate mattresses), 63 in. x 79 in.
• spacious closet

CAT. 2 Staterooms

Even though the staterooms on the captain’s and lido deck were harmoniously integrated into the SEA CLOUD after her initial construction, they still follow the design standards set on the original. Their tasteful interiors are a contemporary interpretation of Marjorie’s aesthetic from the 1930s. The elevated comfort of the spaces is complemented by spectacular sea views from double windows.

• approx. 145 sq. ft.
• two twin beds, 36 in. x 79 in. (convert to queen upon request)

CAT. 3 Staterooms

These plush staterooms have a special maritime charm due to their location between the stations for hoisting and lowering the sails. The deckhouse, which was added during the renovation of the SEA CLOUD, is an oasis of peace, and due to its location on the promenade deck, the staterooms are also only steps away from the restaurant and lounge.

• approx. 135 sq. ft.
• two windows with sea views

CAT. 4 Staterooms

In addition to the luxurious comfort that defines the SEA CLOUD, both staterooms offer a special feature: direct access to the most charming place on the tall ship, the Blue Lagoon. The semi-circular, blue-cushioned space is the traditional onboard area for relaxing under the daytime sun or dreamy night views of starry skies twinkling off the ocean.

• approx. 113 sq. ft.
• window with sea view

CAT. 5 Staterooms

These special staterooms were made for sailing enthusiasts. In Marjorie’s time, these were accommodations for SEA CLOUD officers, thus, the vibe is authentically nautical. The best part, which is exclusive to these staterooms, is direct access to the promenade deck, directly below the bridge. Open the door to breathe in the salty sea air and experience the charming maritime ambience.

• approx. 102 sq. ft.
• upper and lower beds, 32 in. x 79 in.
• porthole and door to promenade deck

Guaranteed double cabins (limited allotment; upon request)

Our guaranteed cabins allow you to book our voyages at a lower rate. A specific cabin number or category cannot be selected. You will receive your exact cabin number when arriving on board. On the SEA CLOUD, the range of accommodation starts from Cat. 5. The allotment for this category is very limited.

Stateroom (twin beds), category 3, No. 20

These comfortable cabins have a special maritime charm due to their location between the manoeuvring stations for hoisting and lowering the sails. The deckhouse, which was added during the renovation of the SEA CLOUD, is an oasis of peace, but due to its location on the promenade deck, the cabins are also only one step away from the restaurant and lounge in the superstructure amidships.

Cabin at a glance:

• approx. 12,5 m² (135 sq. ft.) large
• Marble bathroom with shower
• two single beds 80 cm x 200 cm (32 in. x 79 in.)
• Panorama window

Guaranteed De luxe outside cabins (limited allotment; upon request)

Our guaranteed cabins allow you to book our voyages at a lower rate. A specific cabin number or category cannot be selected. You will receive your exact cabin number when arriving on board. On the SEA CLOUD, the accommodation for the guaranteed De luxe outside cabins is provided in Cat. B or C. The allotment for this category is very limited.

Guaranteed stateroom: Space is limited. Allocations are at SEA CLOUD CRUISES’ discretion starting in Category 5. You will receive your exact stateroom number when arriving on board.

On a course that made history

Technical data and sail diagram

Length overall:

109.50 m / 360 ft

14.94 m / 50 ft

5.13 m / 17 ft

Height of main mast above waterline:

56 m / 184 ft

Total sail area:

3,000 m² / 32,000 sq ft

Number of sails:

Passengers:

Year of construction:

32 outside cabins (of those 10 cabins are located in the luxury area)

Cabin equipment:

Bathrobes, hair dryer, telephone, air conditioning, private safe, exclusive cosmetics

Public areas:

Lido deck with bar, restaurant with free seating in one session, lounge with library and desk area with laptop, hospital, WI-FI, water sports equipment, 2 zodiacs

Sea Cloud Cruises Acquired by The Yacht Portfolio, Part of Ritz-Carlton Start Up

• February 1, 2022

The Yacht Portfolio announced today that it has entered into a letter of intent to acquire Sea Cloud Cruises and its three ships.

“Sea Cloud offers such a unique, environmentally-friendly experience in the cruise space, which aligns well with our continued focus on building a strong portfolio of niche luxury brands,” said Douglas Prothero, CEO of The Yacht Portfolio, which is overseeing the The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruise start up.

“We look forward to completing a transaction with the Sea Cloud team and supporting the brand’s next phase of growth in the luxury cruise space.”

The acquisition not only expands The Yacht Portfolio’s presence in the luxury cruise sector, but also creates an opportunity to expand its relationship with Marriott International beyond The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and gives Marriott International the opportunity to enter the cruise industry through its other luxury brands, according to a press release.

“We are excited about the transaction between The Yacht Portfolio and Sea Cloud and look forward to the opportunity to collaborate further with The Yacht Portfolio to bring our luxury accommodations to sea,” said Timothy Grisius, Global M&A and Real Estate Officer at Marriott International.

“We are pleased that The Yacht Portfolio will strengthen Sea Cloud’s market position,” said Hermann Ebel, Managing Director of Sea Cloud Cruises. “The course is set for many more years of successful international marketing and the foundation is laid for further company and fleet growth.”

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Owners of Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection to acquire Sea Cloud

The Yacht Portfolio , which is the maritime investment firm behind the soon-to-launch Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , has signed a letter of intent to acquire Sea Cloud Cruises .

Hamburg -based Sea Cloud has three, three-masted tall ships: the 64-passenger Sea Cloud , launched in 1931; the 94-passenger Sea Cloud II  (2001); and the new (in 2021) 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit.

"Sea Cloud offers such a unique, environmentally-friendly experience in the cruise space, which aligns well with our continued focus on building a strong portfolio of niche luxury brands," said Douglas Prothero , CEO of The Yacht Portfolio, in statement. "We look forward to completing a transaction with the Sea Cloud team and supporting the brand’s next phase of growth in the luxury cruise space."

Possible cruise expansion

Through the transaction, The Yacht Portfolio plans to expand its relationship with Marriott International beyond the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, officials said, noting in a press release that the deal "gives Marriott International the opportunity to enter the cruise industry through its other luxury brands."

The value of the transaction and the closing date were not disclosed.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s first of three 298-guest luxury yachts, Evrima , is slated to enter service in May 2022 after a series of delays.

Sea Cloud headquarters, meanwhile, will stay is Hamburg and existing itineraries will remain unchanged.

“We are pleased that The Yacht Portfolio will strengthen Sea Cloud’s market position,' said Hermann Ebel, managing director of Sea Cloud Cruises. “The course is set for many more years of successful international marketing and the foundation is laid for further company and fleet growth.”

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The Yacht Portfolio is to acquire Sea Cloud Cruises

Sea Cloud Cruises

By Rebecca Gibson | 01 February 2022

Maritime investment company The Yacht Portfolio has signed a letter of intent to acquire Germany-based operator Sea Cloud Cruises, which has provided luxury cruises in Europe, the USA and elsewhere for more than 40 years.

The Yacht Portfolio will acquire all three of Sea Cloud Cruises’ masted, full-rigged luxury tall ships – the 64-guest Sea Cloud, 94-passenger Sea Cloud II and the 136-guest Sea Cloud Spirit – all of which primarily operate with sails rather than engines.

Following the acquisition, Sea Cloud Cruises will continue to be headquartered in Hamburg and retain its existing business model, team of employees and business partners. The Yacht Portfolio also intends to honour the operator’s existing charter commitments and planned itineraries.

“We are pleased that The Yacht Portfolio will strengthen Sea Cloud’s market position,” said Hermann Ebel, managing director of Sea Cloud Cruises. “The course is set for many more years of successful international marketing and the foundation is laid for further company and fleet growth.”

The acquisition will further expand The Yacht Portfolio’s presence in the luxury cruise sector. The brand already partners with luxury small-ship operator The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, which is part of Marriott International.

“Sea Cloud offers such a unique, environmentally friendly experience in the cruise space, which aligns well with our continued focus on building a strong portfolio of niche luxury brands,” said Douglas Prothero, CEO of The Yacht Portfolio. “We look forward to completing a transaction with the Sea Cloud team and supporting the brand’s next phase of growth in the luxury cruise space.”

Marriott International will also have the opportunity to enter the cruise industry through its other luxury brands.

“We are excited about the transaction between The Yacht Portfolio and Sea Cloud and look forward to the opportunity to collaborate further with The Yacht Portfolio to bring our luxury accommodations to sea,” said Timothy Grisius, global mergers and acquisitions, and real estate officer for Marriott International.

Tags: The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection     Marriott International     Sea Cloud     Sea Cloud II     Sea Cloud Cruises     Sea Cloud Spirit     The Yacht Portfolio

Rebecca Gibson

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