Embark on an Epic Ocean Odyssey

Discover the world's most breathtaking maritime adventures

Experience the freedom of the open sea with our premium voyages designed for the adventurous soul. From tranquil Caribbean cruises to thrilling Atlantic crossings, our expertly crafted journeys combine luxury, adventure, and the timeless romance of sailing.

Our Maritime Journey

Vintage sailing ship navigating through rough seas

Ocean Odyssey began in 1985 with a simple vision: to share the incomparable experience of sea travel with adventurous souls worldwide. Founded by Captain James Hartford, a veteran sailor with over 30 years of maritime experience, our company started with a single restored schooner and a passionate crew dedicated to authentic seafaring experiences.

Over three decades later, we've grown into a fleet of twelve meticulously maintained vessels, ranging from intimate yachts to magnificent tall ships, each with its own character and charm. We believe that the ocean is not merely a route but a destination in itself – a living, breathing entity that teaches, challenges, and inspires all who venture upon it.

Our journeys are carefully crafted to balance adventure with comfort, authenticity with luxury, and education with relaxation. Whether you're learning to navigate by the stars, helping to hoist the sails, or simply relaxing on deck with the soundtrack of waves and wind, an Ocean Odyssey voyage connects you to the timeless traditions of seafaring while providing modern comforts.

Customer Satisfaction

98%

Voyage Completion Rate

100%

Repeat Customers

73%

Our Signature Voyages

Explore our most popular maritime adventures, each carefully crafted to offer unique experiences on the high seas

Caribbean island hopping voyage

Caribbean Island Odyssey

Navigate the crystal waters of the Caribbean on our 14-day island-hopping adventure. Explore hidden coves, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs aboard our classic schooner. Enjoy shore excursions to lush rainforests and historic colonial towns, with opportunities to learn traditional sailing techniques from our expert crew.

Duration: 14 days

Mediterranean coastal exploration

Mediterranean Explorer

Trace ancient maritime routes through the Mediterranean on this 21-day voyage of discovery. From the Greek Islands to the Amalfi Coast, immerse yourself in the rich maritime history and culture of the Mediterranean while enjoying gourmet cuisine inspired by each region we visit. Includes expert-led tours of coastal archaeological sites.

Duration: 21 days

Northern Lights sailing expedition

Northern Lights Expedition

Venture to the Arctic Circle on our most adventurous voyage. This 10-day journey through Norway's fjords is timed to maximize opportunities for viewing the spectacular aurora borealis from the unique vantage point of our expedition ship. Includes wildlife watching, visits to remote fishing villages, and lectures on Arctic ecology and navigation.

Duration: 10 days

Our Maritime Experts

Meet the seasoned captains and specialists who make your ocean adventures safe, educational, and unforgettable

Captain James Hartford

Captain James Hartford

Master Mariner & Founder

With over 40 years at sea and circumnavigating the globe three times, Captain James brings unparalleled experience to every voyage. His deep knowledge of celestial navigation and maritime history transforms each journey into an educational adventure. James founded Ocean Odyssey to share his passion for traditional sailing with a new generation of ocean enthusiasts.

Celestial Navigation Maritime History Traditional Sailing
Dr. Elena Rodriguez

Dr. Elena Rodriguez

Marine Biologist & Naturalist

Dr. Rodriguez joins select voyages to share her expertise in marine ecosystems and ocean conservation. Her engaging lectures and guided snorkeling excursions reveal the hidden wonders beneath the waves. Elena's research on coral reef preservation has been featured in National Geographic, and she brings this passion to every Ocean Odyssey expedition she leads.

Marine Biology Conservation Reef Ecology
Chef Thomas Beaumont

Chef Thomas Beaumont

Maritime Culinary Director

Trained in France and inspired by global coastal cuisines, Chef Thomas transforms each voyage into a gastronomic journey. His philosophy combines local, fresh ingredients sourced from ports of call with traditional seafaring recipes updated for modern palates. Thomas also offers popular cooking workshops where passengers learn to prepare signature dishes from our destinations.

Maritime Cuisine Sustainable Seafood Culinary Workshops

Maritime Resources

Helpful resources for sea voyagers and maritime enthusiasts

Navigation & Safety

Maritime Culture & History

Our Seafaring Approach

The Ocean Odyssey philosophy combines traditional maritime practices with modern comfort and safety

Traditional Seamanship

At Ocean Odyssey, we honor the timeless traditions of seafaring. Our voyages employ traditional sailing techniques whenever possible, with passengers encouraged to participate in sail handling, navigation, and ship operations. This hands-on approach connects travelers to maritime heritage in a meaningful way that cannot be experienced on conventional cruise ships. We believe that understanding the skills and knowledge that have guided sailors for centuries creates a deeper appreciation for the journey itself.

Environmental Stewardship

Our commitment to ocean conservation influences every aspect of our operations. We utilize wind power whenever possible, minimize waste through comprehensive recycling programs, and source provisions locally to reduce our carbon footprint. Educational components about marine ecosystems and conservation challenges are integrated into every voyage, fostering awareness and inspiring action among our passengers.

Cultural Immersion

Rather than typical tourist experiences, our port visits focus on authentic cultural exchanges and supporting local communities. We partner with local guides, visit traditional maritime villages, and arrange meetings with local craftspeople, fishermen, and maritime historians. This approach creates meaningful connections between our travelers and the coastal cultures we visit, while economically benefiting communities that maintain traditional maritime ways of life.

Traditional sail handling techniques

Hands-On Learning

Direct experience with navigation, sail handling, and maritime skills

Small Group Focus

Maximum 24 passengers ensures personalized attention and instruction

Sustainable Practices

Wind power prioritized with minimal environmental impact

Expert Guidance

Seasoned mariners share generations of nautical wisdom

Maritime Webinars & Workshops

Join our virtual educational sessions to prepare for your voyage or expand your maritime knowledge

Celestial navigation webinar

Celestial Navigation Basics

Learn the time-honored art of navigating by the stars in this introductory webinar. Captain Hartford explains the fundamental principles of using a sextant, reading nautical almanacs, and plotting positions—skills that have guided mariners for centuries before GPS. Suitable for beginners with no prior navigation experience.

Next Session: June 15, 2025 | 7:00 PM EST

Register
Essential sailing knots workshop

Essential Sailing Knots

Master the crucial knots that every sailor should know in this hands-on virtual workshop. First Mate Williams demonstrates proper technique for bowlines, clove hitches, sheet bends, and other essential knots while explaining their specific maritime applications. Participants will practice along during the session.

Next Session: July 8, 2025 | 2:00 PM EST

Register
Maritime weather prediction workshop

Reading the Maritime Sky

Develop your ability to forecast weather conditions at sea by observing nature's signs. Meteorologist Dr. Chen explains how cloud formations, wind patterns, sea state, and barometric pressure readings combine to inform weather predictions. Includes practical techniques used by sailors for centuries before modern forecasting technology.

Next Session: August 12, 2025 | 6:30 PM EST

Register

Recognition & Accolades

Our commitment to excellence in maritime adventures has been recognized by leading travel authorities

Maritime Sustainability Award

Sustainable Tourism Excellence

Blue Flag Maritime Association

2022

Best Maritime Experience Award

Best Maritime Experience

International Travel Awards

2021, 2022

Maritime Heritage Preservation Award

Heritage Preservation

World Maritime Heritage Society

2020

Safety Excellence in Maritime Tourism Award

Safety Excellence

Maritime Tourism Safety Council

2019, 2020, 2022

Voyager Testimonials

The transformative experiences of our maritime adventurers

Margaret J. from Boston

"At 67, I never imagined I'd help sail a tall ship across the Atlantic. The crew's patient instruction and encouragement turned what could have been simply a cruise into the adventure of a lifetime. Learning to navigate by the stars while surrounded by nothing but ocean in all directions gave me a profound sense of connection to centuries of seafarers who came before us. This voyage changed how I see myself and what I'm capable of."

Margaret J., Boston

Mediterranean Explorer Voyage

David & Sophie K. from Vancouver

"We chose the Caribbean Odyssey for our 25th anniversary, seeking something more meaningful than a typical cruise. The intimate setting of just 20 passengers created a genuine community aboard ship. From impromptu music sessions on deck under the stars to the shared excitement of spotting a pod of whales at dawn, the experience fostered connections not just with each other but with our fellow travelers that have endured long after returning to shore."

David & Sophie K., Vancouver

Caribbean Island Odyssey

James T. from London

"As a technology executive constantly tethered to devices, the Northern Lights Expedition provided exactly what I didn't know I needed—a genuine disconnect. There's something profoundly liberating about being beyond cell range, with nothing but wind, sails, and the rhythms of the ship to dictate your schedule. Watching the aurora borealis ripple across the Arctic sky from the deck of our vessel was a humbling reminder of nature's majesty that no digital experience could ever replicate."

James T., London

Northern Lights Expedition

The Rodriguez Family from Madrid

"Taking our teenagers on the Mediterranean Explorer was a gamble that paid off beyond our wildest expectations. Watching them disconnect from their devices and engage with the physical challenges of sailing, the history of our ports of call, and the diverse international crew was incredibly rewarding. They learned resilience when we encountered rough seas, teamwork while handling sails, and gained confidence that comes from mastering new skills. It was education in its truest form."

The Rodriguez Family, Madrid

Mediterranean Explorer

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about our sea voyages and maritime adventures

Do I need sailing experience to join a voyage?

No prior sailing experience is required for most of our voyages. Our experienced crew provides thorough instruction and guidance for all shipboard activities. Passengers can participate in sailing operations as much or as little as they wish, though we encourage everyone to try their hand at basic tasks like steering, lookout duty, and sail handling. For our more challenging routes, such as ocean crossings, we recommend having at least some prior sailing experience, but it's not mandatory.

What are the sleeping accommodations like?

Accommodations vary by vessel but typically feature a blend of traditional maritime charm and essential modern comforts. Most cabins are cozy but efficiently designed, with options ranging from private double cabins with ensuite facilities on our larger vessels to shared four-person berths with common bathrooms on our more traditional tall ships. All accommodations include comfortable bedding, storage for personal items, and natural ventilation. Our focus is on authenticity rather than luxury, though all basic needs are well catered to.

How physically demanding are these voyages?

Our voyages require a moderate level of physical ability. Passengers should be able to climb ladders between decks, maintain balance on a moving vessel, and assist with basic sail handling if they wish to participate. We welcome voyagers of all ages—our past participants have ranged from 12 to 85 years old—but recommend that all guests be in reasonably good health. For those with specific concerns about physical requirements, please contact us to discuss which voyage might best suit your capabilities.

What happens in case of severe weather?

Safety is our absolute priority. Our captains have decades of experience in reading weather patterns and planning voyages accordingly. We utilize modern weather forecasting technology alongside traditional maritime knowledge to avoid severe conditions whenever possible. If challenging weather is encountered, our vessels are sturdy and seaworthy, and our crews are thoroughly trained in heavy weather protocols. In extreme cases, we may alter our itinerary to seek shelter in a safe harbor until conditions improve.

Is there internet or cell service during voyages?

We intentionally embrace the disconnected nature of sea travel as part of the experience. When at sea, there is typically no cell service or internet connectivity, allowing for a genuine break from digital distractions. Our vessels are equipped with satellite communications for emergency purposes and weather updates. When in port, normal cell service is usually available depending on the location. We find that this digital detox is often cited by our passengers as one of the most unexpectedly rewarding aspects of their journey.

Contact Our Maritime Team

Ready to embark on your sea voyage? Reach out to us with your questions or to book your adventure

Begin Your Ocean Odyssey

Whether you're ready to reserve your berth on an upcoming voyage or simply have questions about our maritime adventures, our dedicated crew of voyage specialists is here to assist you. Fill out the form with your inquiry, and we'll respond within 24 hours with the information you need to plan your perfect sea journey.

Voyage Headquarters

17 Harbor Way
Newport, RI 02840
United States

Contact Details

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (401) 555-7890
Hours: 9AM-6PM EST (Mon-Fri)

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