New York, NY (PRWEB) June 18, 2014 -- This fall, discover the art, architecture, and landscapes of the Western Mediterranean aboard Sea Cloud II. Here are eight great reasons to sign up for this exceptional cruise from Barcelona to Nice.
1.) Barcelona’s Gaudí architecture
Begin in lively Barcelona to view the splendidly restored masterpieces of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Born in Reus, Catalonia, in 1852, Gaudí received his architectural degree in Barcelona in 1878. Stunning examples of his works in that city include the modernist building Casa Batlló, the massive Sagrada Familia basilica, and the garden complex Park Güell.
2.) Sailing on the glamorous Sea Cloud II
Experience the grace and romance of a bygone era of travel aboard Sea Cloud II, christened in 2001. This elegant sailing yacht travels under 30,000 square feet of billowing sails trimmed by hand. Praised by the world’s most discerning travelers and travel writers, Sea Cloud II receives consistently high rankings from Condé Nast Traveler.
3.) Marseille’s recently opened Musée des Civilisations d’Europe et de la Méditerranée
Facing the sea in the Old Port of Marseille, this superb museum opened in 2013, focusing "primarily on the cultures of the Mediterranean, from a comparative and multi-disciplinary perspective, in which Europe and other continents that border the Med will play a major role." Visitors to the museum praise its amazing architecture, interesting exhibits, and spectacular views.
4.) Distinguished lecturers
A group of stellar lecturers includes art historian Olivier Bernier, whose previous lectures at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on Spain and France have drawn rave reviews. Also lecturing on board will be a noted architectural historian and landscape designer, Dublin-based Patrick Bowe.
5.) A special before-hours visit to the Matisse Museum in Nice
View the collections at the Matisse Museum during a private tour before opening hours. Situated on the hill of Cimiez, the museum’s collections include the artist’s paintings, drawings, sculptures, engravings, paper cut-outs, and illustrated books, all donated by Matisse and his heirs.
6.) Performances by local artists
While Sea Cloud II is in Marseille, guests will gather on Lido Deck for dinner and a specially arranged concert of guitar music. During an al fresco dinner in the Isles d’Hyères, travelers will enjoy a performance by colorful folkloric group L’Arbanenco de Giens.
7.) A private visit to Villa Noailles
Located in the hills above Hyères, this château cubiste was designed by Robert Mallet-Stevens in 1924 for art patron Vicomte Charles de Noailles. Now a museum with an unusual garden, the villa has many connections to French artistic and literary circles.
8.) Porquerolles in the Isles d’Hyères
Sea Cloud II calls at tiny Porquerolles, one of the world’s most protected environments. Known for its beautiful beaches, Porquerolles also has a charming village and dazzling harbor. To conserve the island’s lovely landscape, strict rules prohibit smoking outside the village and driving automobiles.
About Us:
Academic Arrangements Abroad, a leader in cultural travel since 1977, designs and operates travel programs for sponsoring institutions that include the nation’s top museums and alumni associations.
For more information on the Barcelona to Nice cruise (September 12 to 20, 2014), please contact Sara Kosyk, (212) 514-8921 or sara(at)arrangementsabroad(dot)com.
Sara Welch, Academic Arrangements Abroad, http://www.arrangementsabroad.com/, 2125148921 Ext: X32, [email protected]
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