Music 
Guest Speaker 
Superior Stateroom
25% Ponant Bonus
226 ft²
3
3rd Lyric Festival at Sea
Málaga - Valletta
Dates:
5/2/2024
to
5/9/2024
days
nights on board
In partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE and with featured guest Alain Duault.
RADIO CLASSIQUE and PONANT invite you on their third lyrical festival at sea. Enjoy eight timeless days aboard L’Austral, between discoveries of Mediterranean wonders and intimate concerts on board the ship.
Malaga, a sun-kissed city on the Costa del Sol and the birthplace of famous painter Pablo Picasso, marks the start of your Mediterranean musical odyssey.
Andalusia soon makes way for Murcia. You will arrive in Cartagena, a former Roman colony where there is still a majestic amphitheatre. As you roam the city, you will discover the many monuments reflecting its numerous influences and rich history.
You will leave the Iberian Peninsula for the African shores of the Mediterranean. You will follow in the footsteps of the Andalusian sailors who, in 902, crossed the Mediterranean to found Oran. “The radiant”, as it is dubbed, will be your gateway to Algeria, its secrets and its elusive poetry.
Algiers shines in the distance. From its legendary bay, the houses of its Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, seem to leap onto the Haussmann-style buildings of the sea front. The architectural styles mingle, the different eras find harmony, and the energy of the metropolis is captivating.
L’Austral resumes its journey to head for the Tunisian shores and capital, Tunis. Rome’s great rival, Ancient Carthage, is yours to discover as you visit its ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sicily, jewel of the Mediterranean, is the last port of call of this musical journey. Trapani and its ancient past welcome you for a dive into the heritage of the Mediterranean’s largest island.
Your cruise will come to an end in Valletta, capital of the island of Malta and former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.
Ref : AU020524
Your itinerary
A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up. A brand-new cruise in the Mediterranean, from Andalusia to the Maltese shores via the...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Superior Stateroom
(226 ft²)
From $5,350
25% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Stateroom
(193 ft²)
From $5,780
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 4
(193 ft²)
From $6,400
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 5
(193 ft²)
From $6,710
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 6
(193 ft²)
From $7,080
25% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Suite
(290 ft²)
From $9,800
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
(398 ft²)
From $13,190
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
(398 ft²)
From $13,870
25% Ponant Bonus
Owner's Suite
(484 ft²)
From $21,030
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LE CHAMPLAIN
7/24/2023 to the 8/2/2023
LE BORÉAL
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Alain Duault
The novelist, poet, journalist, musicologist and radio and television presenter Alain Duault has been sharing his passion for and knowledge of classical music for more than 30 years. Considered to be one of the greatest opera specialists in France he is now President of the Prix Pelléas jury, and has been made an Officier de la Légion d’Honneur and Commandeur des Arts et Lettres.
Alain Duault studied literature, philosophy and psycho-analysis in Paris, then musicology and piano. His first TV appearance was as a guest of Bernard Pivot for his book of poems, Colorature. This led to a number of radio programmes dedicated to classical music, notably on RTL, the radio station where Alain Duault would be “Mr Classical Music” for 22 years, before joining Radio Classique with daily slots until 2018. A role that he also took on for the France 3 television channel, presenting a number of exceptional programmes (masterclasses with Ruggero Raimondi in the Salle Gaveau, Musiques en fête at the Chorégies d’Orange festival…).
In 1999, he conceived and presented Intégrale Chopin (225 works, 60 pianists), broadcast on France 3. Then in 2001, he wrote and performed an ambitious and very popular show, Verdi, une passion, un destin (with Jean Piat and 250 musicians). In the wake of this success, he wrote and performed two other shows: Victor Hugo, la légende d’un siècle in 2002 and Rencontre avec George Sand (with Marie-Christine Barrault) in 2004 and 2005.
Alain Duault also puts his writing skills to the service of classical music. The author of a number of books, including Dans la peau de Maria Callas, (Le Passeur Éditeur, 2014, pocket edition, 2017), Dictionnaire amoureux illustré de l’Opéra (Plon Gründ, 2016), Ce léger rien des choses qui ont fui, poetry (Gallimard, 2017), he also writes editorials for Classica.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Laurent Rouvrais @Radio Classique
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Radio Classique
Every day RADIO CLASSIQUE attracts over a million listeners with a promise to celebrate the best works in the classical repertoire by top performers, and bring classical music into the hearts of the greatest number of people in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Radio Classique achieves this by employing well-known personalities with a passion for music, offering a varied play list from symphonies to film music, as well as interactive programmes and numerous live concert broadcasts.
It is these values which set Radio Classique apart, as an accessible, elegant radio station which is much appreciated by epicurean and discerning listeners ; values that are perfectly in tune with what PONANT’s musical cruises have to offer, under the artistic direction of Alain Duault. A truly unforgettable musical experience awaits passengers in the company of outstanding artists in an intimate and privileged setting.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up.
- A brand-new cruise in the Mediterranean, from Andalusia to the Maltese shores via the African coast, featuring exciting history and sumptuous scenery.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Casbah in Algiers, the Tipaza complex (from Algiers), the archaeological site of Carthage, the medina in Tunis, Valletta (disembarkation port).
- A dive into the ancient heritage of Cartagena.
- Three brand-new ports of call in the Maghreb, including two in Algeria, Algiers and Oran, and one in the Tunisian capital, Tunis.
- A port of call in Sicily with a stop in Trapani, former ancient city and jewel of the Mediterranean.
Ports of Call & Excursions
May 2, 2024 - Málaga
Embarkation 5/2/2024 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 5/2/2024 at 6:00 PM
A historical and festive town, Malaga is located in Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising out from the cypresses and maritime pines. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, you will go first to the courtly plaza de la Merced. A few streets back from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist, in the Buenavista palace.
May 3, 2024 - Cartagena
Arrival 5/3/2024 midday
Departure 5/3/2024 early evening
Surrounded by hills, the natural site of the Bay of Carthagena presided over the fate of this former fortress which has been home to the greatest European civilisations. Today, these Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Moorish and Christian influences form a rich architectural heritage. Its Roman theatre is one of the most significant and best conserved in Spain. You will also be able to cross the landscapes of vines and citrus groves stretching endlessly towards Murcia, to visit this dynamic regional capital.
May 4, 2024 - Oran
Arrival 5/4/2024 early morning
Departure 5/4/2024 mid afternoon
While it is impossible to fully capture the energy that Oran exudes, the city was a source of inspiration for great novels such as Don Quixote by Cervantes, The Plague by Camus, and more recently What the Day Owes the Night by Yasmina Khadra. Andalusian sailors founded the city in 902 and it continued to develop until becoming Algeria’s second largest city today. Dubbed “the radiant”, the city reflects its multiple influences, a blend of Middle Eastern, African, Mediterranean, and of course French. As you stroll through its streets, you will discover the Fort of Santa Cruz, the Hassan Pasha Mosque, the Sacred Heart Cathedral, the Mediterranean garden, and the magnificent seafront. Not far from there, in Sidi Bel Abbes, you may have the opportunity to visit a modern “khaima”, a traditional tent used by the Bedouins in the desert, and to discover Oran’s traditions and customs.
May 5, 2024 - Algiers
Arrival 5/5/2024 early morning
Departure 5/5/2024 late afternoon
The beauty of the Bay of Algiers offers travellers arriving by sea an unforgettable view. The Casbah houses cascade down to the Haussmann-style buildings and the hustle and bustle of the Mediterranean city creates a unique atmosphere. Algiers the White proudly bears the traces of its history with its magnificent Casbah, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, its tropical garden called Jardin d’Essai, its Martyr’s Memorial, its imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, and its lively city centre with its Grande Poste (main post office) and French quarter. Seventy kilometres (43 miles) away, you will have the possibility of visiting Tipaza, one of the most extraordinary archaeological complexes of the Maghreb, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO. Once a trading post of the Carthaginians and later the Romans, the ancient city is home to the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, a funerary monument providing precious evidence of what was once the Punic world.
May 6, 2024 - At sea
Arrival 5/6/2024
Departure 5/6/2024
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
May 7, 2024 - Tunis
Arrival 5/7/2024 early morning
Departure 5/7/2024 late afternoon
At the crossroads of civilisations, the capital of Tunisia is rich in cultural discoveries. The ruins of Ancient Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and particularly well preserved, testify to the splendour of this city that was once Rome’s great rival. The hill of Byrsa, the former fortified citadel of the Phoenician port and one of the presumed burial places of Saint Louis who died there during the Eighth Crusade, offers spectacular views over the Gulf of Tunis. In the Bardo National Museum, you will be able to admire one of the world’s finest Roman mosaic collections, including the magnificent portrait of the poet Virgil.
May 8, 2024 - Trapani, Sicily
Arrival 5/8/2024 early morning
Departure 5/8/2024 early afternoon
Bathed in the cobalt waters of the Tyrrhenian sea, Trapani is the former port of the Greek city of Erice, boasting a privileged natural position in western Sicily. As you wander through its little streets, you will discover a secular cultural heritage, bearing witness to the many influences of civilisations that came here: San Lorenzo Cathedral, Maria Santissima Annunziata sanctuary, the fountain of Triton. On the shaded restaurant terraces, savour some fresh fish from the morning’s catch. Or else you can opt for a seafood couscous, a culinary legacy from their Arab neighbours.
May 9, 2024 - Valletta
Arrival 5/9/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 5/9/2024 at 8:00 AM
The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.
L'Austral
Innovative design, sleek shape and profile, refined interior decoration, friendly, intimate atmosphere: French designers and decorators have managed to give this ship a unique style and veritable signature of its own. Combinations of fine materials, colours and tones harmoniously livened up with touches of bright colour, elegant lines, discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambiance of a veritable private yacht.
Up to 264 Guests
132 staterooms & suites
145 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Music
Set sail on a musical journey! If you have a passion for classical instrumental music or opera, if you love Celtic melodies or jazz, treat yourself to a different and exclusive experience aboard a PONANT ship. On board or ashore, our guests of honour, including renowned artists, talented musicians and brilliant virtuosos, share their knowledge and their passion in an intimate and accessible manner during concerts or talks.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.