Our last full day together on Sea Cloud was spent cruising the serene blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. We had brief visits from some charismatic breaching dolphins. While the sun was blazing and the air was humid, our expedition leader and captain decided this weather begged for a cool down. Captain Svendsen and Bay Watch patrol Simon Kwinta guided guests off the gangway ladder into the refreshing saltwater pool created for them just off the portside of Sea Cloud. It was a perfect day of relaxation in between packing and prepping for the day of travel to follow. Our time together on board closed with a hazy pastel sunset on the Amalfi coastline while we navigated our way back to Naples.
5/23/2023
Read
Sea Cloud
At Sea
Our last day aboard the Sea Cloud saw us crossing the Tyrrhenian Sea on approach to Naples in the glorious May sunshine. The fair weather continues to eclipse any memory of rough seas experienced. What is this purple dragon of which you speak?! However, before we arrive at Naples, we still have a full day of cruising along the Sorrentine Peninsula. This promontory, long renowned for its artisanal workshops, delimits the southern extent of the Gulf of Naples. Our cruise takes us along the coastline from Amalfi to Positano to the Isle of Capri. Mount Vesuvius looms in the distance. We spend the morning with Captain John Svendson, who talks us through his life experiences at sea, through foul and fair weather. He takes us on an extended tour of our majestic ship and highlights the many different components that make up her original 1932 assembly. We also learn about the different rationales between 20th and 21st century maritime engineering. Later in the day, expedition historian Dr. David Brotherson talks about Pompeii and the unique insights it offers into the daily life of ancient Romans. On the lido deck, we enjoy a final buffet lunch with pasta and the parmesan wheel. In the evening, we gather for the Captain’s Farewell Drinks and reminisce about our remarkable voyage as we view our voyage slideshow.