Vintage sailing vessels

Aug 25, 08 | 1:58 am

By Carla Davidson

Hop aboard these spectacular olden ships

It's possible to travel the seven seas on all kinds of vessels, many of them as luxurious as you can imagine, and many of them born yesterday. But some of the best are haunted by history-in a good way.

The S.S. Karim, for example, was built in 1917 for an Egyptian sultan. This three-deck sternwheeler still cruises the Nile, powered by its original steam engine. Historic as it is, the Karim's 15 air-conditioned cabins offer 30 travelers a blend of the best of modern comfort and ancient splendor on eight-day round trips from Luxor.

In the warmer months, Sea Cloud departs from a variety of Mediterranean ports. In all of them, even before the crew sets the massive sails, this 369-foot-long, four-masted boat dominates the harbor. Christened Hussar when built in 1931 for Marjorie Merriweather Post-one of the richest women in the world at the time-Sea Cloud remains the most opulent tall ship afloat.

Traveling on such small, historic ships costs more than taking a traditional cruise. But for an increasing number of discerning voyagers, the charm of these vintage vessels is worth the additional cost.

External source: To read complete article 'Click Here'

Source: Forbes Traveler