Grand Caribbean, Spain & the French Riviera

Ports

• San Juan
  

  San Juan, founded in the 1520’s by Spanish settlers, is both the largest city and the capital city of Puerto Rico. A territory of the Unites States, Puerto Rico is comprised of the large main island as well as five smaller islands, including the popular islands of Vieques and Culebra (both ports of call on select SeaDream voyages). SeaDream docks in Old San Juan, the oldest part of the city. Parts of this historic port city are still surrounded by stone walls dating back to the 1500’s. Narrow cobblestone streets, small shops, and points of interest like Cathedral of San Juan Bautista make this charming city a great place to stroll. Guests sailing into or departing from San Juan will enjoy views of Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, a mid- 1700’s Spanish fortress. San Juan Luiz Munoz Marin Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive to the port in Old San Juan. Currency in Puerto Rico is USD.
• Culebra
  

  An 11-square-mile island off the northeast coast of Puerto Rico, Culebra is also home to the small adjacent uninhabited islands of Culebrita and Cayo Norte to the east and Luis Peña to the west. Culebra’s breathtaking beautiful Flamenco Beach regularly appears on lists of the “World’s Best Beaches.” Following your day exploring Culebra, that evening we invite you to Vieques Island, where you can kayak in bioluminescent waters filled with glittering sea organisms.
• Esperanza, Vieques Island
  

  Esperanza is a charming “barrio” located on the south side of the island-municipality of Vieques, Puerto Rico. It is known for El Malecon, which means “The Strip,” the fishing tradition, the fight against the US Navy, and Esperanza Beach, one of the only locations in Isla de Vieques with restaurants and restrooms close by. Children enjoy jumping off the pier at the beach, and for those who enjoy good food and local entertainment without the hustle and bustle of a busy nightlife, El Malecon in Esperanza is the place to be. The island’s name, Vieques, is said to mean “small island” in Taino, and its nickname is Isla Nena, meaning “Little Girl Island”. Puerto Rico’s little sister island - Vieques measures 55 square feet with under 10,000 inhabitants. Along with Culebra and other various small islands, the archipelago makes up the Spanish Virgin Islands, or “Passage Islands.” Vieques was also referred to as “Crab Island” by the British. English and Spanish are both recognized as official languages of the area. As with the other Puerto Rican islands, pre-Columbian history is limited in clarity. Archaeologists believe Vieques was home to Native Americans who migrated from the American continent between 3000 and 2000 BCE. A fragmented human skeleton named “El Hombre de Puerto Ferro” was discovered northwest of the popular Bioluminescent Bay, estimated to be from 1900 BCE. Best known as the people in later centuries of Puerto Rico, the Taino culture was comprised of groups from Venezuela, Cuba, and Hispaniola, who migrated in waves up to 1000 AD. The Taino flourished until Europeans discovered Vieques in the 15th century - often credited to Christopher Columbus. Vieques became the center of the Taino rebellion against Spain, which ultimately ended in the Taino downfall. Despite this, Spain did not colonize for many centuries and Vieques, along with Culebra, became a sanctuary for pirates and outlaws. The French, Danish, Scottish, and English all attempted to secure Vieques but failed - Spain permanently settled by 1811. When the Spanish-American War concluded in 1898, Spain turned the Puerto Rican islands over to the United States, which by the 1940’s (post-WWII) served as a firing range for the Navy. Up until 2003, a multitude of protests continued for decades, pressuring the United Stated Navy enough to withdraw from the islands. Vieques is now a National Wildlife Refuge and growing tourist destination. Because of the lack of human interference, most of the areas previously closed off to civilians by the Navy feature over 40 gorgeous beaches, and many natural ecotourism locations for exploration. Blue Beach features an excellent place for snorkeling, Bioluminescent Bay has quickly become a popular spot for its notorious glowing dinoflagellates, and the island is also known for free-roaming 'feral paso fino 'horses.
• Lovango Cay
  

  Perched strategically between the main islands of St. Thomas and St. John–mere minutes away by boat from both but hidden from each–Lovango Cay offers the intimacy of a private island. The island’s Lovango Resort & Beach Club, a secluded Caribbean hideaway reminiscent of a South Pacific deserted island, opens its doors to SeaDreamers, who won’t want to miss their chilled champagne signature lobster Caesar salad. Stay put and soak up the sun from your private terrace all day, or opt for a boat excursion to get to U.S. Virgin Islands National Park or the charming town of Cruz Bay in minutes.
• Prickly Pear, B.V.I
  

  A stunning island situated in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda and got its name because of the large flowering cactus all over the island. The island was declared a National Park in 1988 meaning the 180 acres will have no further development, just an island filled with natural beauty. Breathtaking hiking trails start from the main beach Vixen Point, winds around the island filled with salt ponds heading to the north shore which has two other amazing secluded beaches.
• Sandy Ground
  

  This British Overseas Territory is becoming more popular due to the incredible resort options as well as world recognized beaches and amazing golf. SeaDream offers an opportunity to tee off, swim with dolphins or for the energetic, bike around the island with the Captain or Club Director. Naturally, we will also offer water sports while we are anchored off Sandy Ground.
• Gustavia
  

  Perhaps our most treasured destination in the Caribbean! This small island belonging to the French West Indies has so much to offer our SeaDream guests. Incredible shopping only steps away from the pier. Incredible beaches, resorts, restaurants and activities both day and night. SeaDream has created various land adventures for you to discover the island from sea or land. Ask one of the officers to take you on a hike or bike ride around the island. Another great activity here is to simply relax and watch all of the incredible yachts arriving and departing just off your SeaDream yacht.
• Falmouth Bay
  

  Falmouth Bay is a short walk from Nelson's Dockyard and the English Harbour. Historic buildings and mills surround it. This harbor and the quiet village has plenty of shops, restaurants and the yacht club. Historic sites, tasty cuisine and a lively cultural scene can all be found on Antigua. But most often it's the beauty and versatility of the island's 365 beaches that draw travelers from afar. Land Adventure possibilities include a helicopter ride over Montserrat, a jeep and snorkel safari and a St. John’s City and shopping exploration.
• Philipsburg
  

  Philipsburg is the main town on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The town is situated on a narrow stretch of land between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond. Philipsburg was founded in 1763 by John Philips, a Scottish captain in the Dutch navy. The settlement soon became a center for international trade. The main shopping district is located on Front Street and is in the heart of the city. Many consider Philipsburg to be the best shopping opportunity in the Caribbean. Depending on the traffic, SeaDream has the option to anchor or dock alongside. One of the highlight activities may be to participate in the America’s Cup 12 Metre Regatta.
• Chrishi Beach, Nevis
  

  Chrishi Beach is an idyllic respite in Cades Bay on the island of Nevis, itself nestled in the Leeward Islands of the West Indies. Originally a fisherman’s hideaway where lobsters and conchs were collected from the ocean in the early morning, today Cades Bay promises an ideal locale at which to swim and relax, and where guests can enjoy the fresh ocean air, beautiful sea views, and gorgeous sunsets. As SeaDream guests, you are invited to take advantage of the carefree hospitality of Chrishi Beach Club, a tony beach resort that exudes laid-back luxury in every detail. Chrishi Beach is your gateway to Montravers, where a hike through a lush forest introduces you to the flora and fauna of Nevis, offering a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs including bamboo, tropical fruit trees and, if you are fortunate, glimpses of green vervet monkeys. On a clear day you can see the volcanic activity on Montserrat as well as views of the neighboring islands of Antigua, Redonda, St. Kitts, and Booby Island.
• At Sea
  
• Malaga
  

  Malaga, together with adjacent towns and municipalities such as Rincon de la Victoria, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Alhaurin de la Torre, Mijas, and Marbella, forms the Malaga Metropolitan area. The important cultural infrastructure and the rich artistic heritage have culminated in the nomination of Malaga as a candidate for the 2016 European Capital of Culture. The internationally acclaimed painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso and actor Antonio Banderas were both born in Malaga. SeaDream calls to Malaga both as an embarkation point as well as a typical port of call. Kindly check on the land adventures tab to see all of the activities and options. Should you need embarkation information, it’s also available there.
• Tangier
  

  At the crossroads of Europe and Africa, of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, Tangier opens the door to Morocco. This port on the Strait of Gibraltar is truly a feast for the senses. Take in the influences of peoples and cultures, the heavy fragrances of the spice markets, the murmurs of the sea and city swirling together. The Old Town, or medina, is an architecturally rich labyrinth, boasting Byzantine-era cobblestone streets, Grecian whitewashed homes, and ancient mosques and temples. Separated from the medina by ramparts, the Kasbah, ancient palace district, is built on the highest point in the city, overlooking the harbor.
• Gibraltar
  

  Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located at the entrance of the Mediterranean on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula. Most visitors arriving by sea are impressed by the rock’s enormous visual impact. Only covering an area of 2.3 square miles (6.0 sq. km.) several sites are a must-see! Some of the “can’t miss” options include the Great Siege Tunnels, St. Michael’s Cave, The Moorish Castle, The Lighthouse at Europa Point and shopping – yes shopping. SeaDream docks at the passenger terminal and has the coaches for the land adventures just outside. It is an easy walk downtown to the duty-free area. Bikes are available should you want to bike up the rock.
• Puerto Banus
  

  Puerto Banus is a very upscale marina to the west of Marbella, Spain on the Costa del Sol. It was built in 1970 by Jose Banus, a local property developer, as a luxury marina and shopping complex for the jet-set. The focal point of Puerto Banus is the marina. It is also a scene for many exotic cars that are owned by international celebrities and wealthy owners that also own large mega yachts. Our local agent tells us that SeaDream is the only commercial yacht that has docked in Banus. Several club members arrange a gathering with the local Ferrari Club and line up 20 or so Italian iconic automobiles along the pier. Just sit back and watch the scenery – awesome!
• Almeria
  

  In the Andalusia region of Spain sits Almeria, hugging the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, undoubtedly one of Spain’s best-kept secrets. It’s here you can enjoy the best that Andalusia has to offer, most notably its sea, sunshine, and golden-sand beaches. In the Old Town, Almeria’s Moorish heritage can be spotted on every corner. Take in its vibrant food culture in the open markets, fine restaurants, and tapas bars. Hike to the impressive Alcazaba Fortress, one of the best-preserved citadels in Andalusia, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
• Alicante
  

  Seaside Alicante sits along Spain’s Costa Blanca, the Mediterranean coastline that runs along the Alicante province on the southeastern coast of Spain. A holiday resort town known mostly to travel insiders, Alicante’s picturesque harbor and stunning golden-sand beaches complement its signature Explanada de España, a marble promenade lined with more than six million mosaic tiles. Alicante’s Old Town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz, is your pathway to the medieval Castillo de Santa Bárbara, one of Spain’s largest medieval fortresses, set on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
• Valencia
  

  Valencia is the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona. It has more than 2.5 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area. The city is recognized globally partly due to its Unesco Heritage Status as well as the City of Arts and Sciences. The Port of Valencia is a very busy commercial port. It is the 5th busiest container port in Europe and the largest in the Mediterranean. SeaDream docks as close to the city center as possible – just along the Grand Prix Raceway. SeaDream offers both day trips as well as a very popular evening adventure called “Valencia Buzzes at Night”.
• Barcelona
  

  Overlooking the Mediterranean city, Barcelona is a destination that welcomes exploration. Vibrant and metropolitan, this UNESCO-Awarded city is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is especially notable for its Art Nouveau architecture and the work of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, which can be seen throughout the city. His best-known work is the immense, unfinished church of the Sagrada Familia, which has been under construction since 1882 and is still financed by private donations. Completion is planned for 2026. SeaDream overnights in this bustling Mediterranean city and typically docks downtown at the World Trade Center, just steps away from the iconic tree-lined pedestrian La Rambla boulevard
• Roses, Costa Brava
  

  Roses (or Rosas in Spanish) is a coastal city and has the largest fishing fleet of the Costa Brava. Even with so many fishermen, this town in Girona thrives on tourism. The town is popular for its splendid beaches and loved for its unique location as it is the only beach resort facing west. This allows tourists and locals alike get to enjoy fantastic sunsets across the Gulf of Roses. SeaDream anchors just of the marina and may offer guests water sports activities.
• Sete
  

  This city in southern France has a long and interesting history, modern history from the mid-1600’s when it was founded as an integral Mediterranean port. In the 1800’s the British attempted to burn down the city, and German troops occupied it in 1944. Visitors to the city can enjoy numerous fine restaurants, a great selection of museums and art galleries, and of course water sports, tours, and excellent sandy beaches.
• Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer
  

  Resplendent Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer is ideally situated in the heart of the Côte d’Azur, with a plethora of quintessential French towns within easy reach. Discover the breathtaking city of Marseille, whose striped Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde is crowned by an immense golden statue of the Virgin Mary and Child. In genteel Aix-en-Provence, follow the trail of Cézanne through leafy squares and promenades sprinkled with bubbling fountains. The artistic ambiance also extends to Cassis, whose evocative landscapes have been immortalized on canvas by the likes of Paul Signac and André Derain. Step back into the medieval era in both La Cadière d’Azur, a delightful cluster of buildings dating as far back as the 9th century, and in tranquil Le Castellet, a diminutive hilltop hamlet that provides expansive views over the surrounding farmland. The region’s terroir is phenomenally suited for winemaking, so you’ll enjoy ample opportunities to try the local varietals, whether visiting one of the area’s many wineries or simply sipping on a refreshing rosé while lounging at an inviting seafront bistro.
• Sanary-sur-Mer
  

  Sanary-sur-Mer is a Provencal village located in the Var department in the Provences-Alpes-Côtes d'Azur region of France. Most visitors fall in love with the town shortly after they arrive. The harbor has several traditional wooden boats called “pointus” that are used by the fisherman daily. They sell their catch each morning on the harbor front. Market day is always a special treat so plan accordingly. The nearby village of Bandol has some of the oldest vineyards in France. It’s an easy bike ride down the coast from Sanary-sur-Mer. Other options include a land adventure to the nearby town of Castellet a typical hilltop village where you can explore and have a nice wine tasting. Golf at De La Fregate as well as water sports are also on option here.
• St. Tropez
  

  St. Tropez located on the French Riviera quite simply may be the most famous resort town in Europe. It is a playground for the fashion models, athletes, movie stars, entertainers and other extremely wealthy summertime guests. There’s much to offer in this resort town, shopping, nightlife (Byblos hotel’s Les Caves du Roy nightclub) exceptional beach clubs such as Le Club 55 and Nikki Beach at Pampelonne. Nearby you can explore some of the hill towns and visit the award winning rose wineries. You can also visit neighboring Grimaud and Port Grimaud or just a little further out golf at a few highly rated courses. SeaDream anchors just off the break wall and tenders directly to the pier downtown.
• Cannes
  

  Cannes is a well-known destination in the French Riviera that is home to many international festivals celebrating the arts, including Midem, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, and the global film festival founded in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival. It’s the first European satellite manufacturer, home to the Cannes Mandelieu Space Center, as well as the headquarters for Thales Alenia Space. Originally a small fishing port heavily tied to the Lerins Islands, Cannes is most characterized by luxury, fame, and hosting conferences. Despite becoming a glamorous destination in the Côte d'Azur, the history of Cannes and the Lerins Islands was quite rocky. Cannes was initially named Aegitna, and established by the Ligurian tribe of Oxybii in the 2nd Century B.C. In 410 A.D. two monks settled on Lerina and established a monastery, housing several hundred monks by the 6th century. Out of fear of a Saracen invasion, Le Suquet was procured by the monks in the 11th century, which led to the birth and expansion on what became known as Cannes. Piracy remained a general problem and by the 12th century, the monastery was finally attacked by Saracen pirates, which further fueled insecurity. In 1520, when French King Francis I and Holy Roman Emperor Charles V declared war, Cannes became a passageway for their armies. The situation in Cannes would worsen when the great plague of 1579 annihilated much of the population. In 1635, the Spanish occupied the town for a couple of years before returning to Spain in 1707 for the War of Spanish Succession. It wasn’t until the 18th century where Cannes finally became tranquil and began flourishing in the 19th century. The economy for Cannes is sustained by business fairs, trade, tourism, and aviation. Points of interest include the Iles de Lerins, Marches Forville, Casino Croisette and Rue Meynadier. During the summer, from May to September, Cannes remains sunny for 12 hours a day. Its warm climate allows lemon, orange and olive trees to thrive, as well as fig, almond, oak, lotus and cypress trees. When sailing to Cannes, be sure to visit La Croisette and stroll along the white sandy beaches on this mile-long promenade where the very essence of this town thrives. SeaDream typically anchors so we can offer water sports to our valued guests. You may occasionally see the yacht docked alongside when we are chartered from the festival.
• Nice
  

  Nice is the fifth most populous city in France and the second largest on the Mediterranean coast. The city's famous seaside promenade, the Promenade des Anglais ('the Walkway of the English') owes its name to the earliest settlers to this seaside resort. For over a quarter century, the picturesque Nicean surroundings have attracted not only those in search of relaxation but also those seeking inspiration. SeaDream docks in the small port and offers several land adventure options as well as private arrangements and transfers.