Guest of Honour 
Music 
Guest Speaker 
Superior Stateroom
226 ft²
3
- Last staterooms
8th annual Piano Festival at Sea
Venice - Venice
Dates:
6/22/2023
to
6/29/2023
days
nights on board
In partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alexandre Kantorow and Alain Duault.
Discover the beauty of the Adriatic with PONANT on an exceptional 8-day cruise in Croatia and Montenegro. Aboard Le Lyrial, fall under the spell of the hidden treasures of the Dalmatian Coast and its turquoise waters.
Your voyage will begin in Italy with an embarkation in Venice. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to discover or rediscover the sublime city of the Doges, with its many canals, its vaporetti and mythical gondolas.
Split will open its doors to you to discover its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with treasures such as Diocletian's Palace or the Cathedral of Saint Domnius.
Le Lyrial will then call at Korcula, full of olive groves, vineyards and ancient buildings. This island marked by history – it's the birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo.
You will then head to the aptly named ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by medieval ramparts, its terracotta-tiled roofs, its palaces, cloisters and fountains are bound to impress you and will plunge you into the heart of Croatian history.
Your ship will then set sail towards Montenegro, for an unforgettable cruise in the Bay of Kotor. This impressive gap between two mountain ranges is home to a veritable inland lake with a magical atmosphere; the medieval city of Kotor and its many historical monuments are its jewels.
After a stop on the magnificent island of Hvar, the last stage of your trip will take you to Rovinj, giving you an opportunity to discover this city with Venetian influences. Moreover, it proudly bears Venice’s symbolic winged lion on the Balbi's Arch, which you can admire during a stroll through its picturesque town centre.
As a grand finale, your voyage will draw to a close in Venice the Serenissima and its lagoon.
Ref : LY220623
Your itinerary
A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alexandre Kantorow and Alain Duault. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the lagoon of Venice, the old town of Dubrovnik and Kotor, the...
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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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
Alexandre Kantorow
At 22 years old, Alexandre Kantorow is the first French pianist to win the gold medal at Tchaikovsky Competition as well as the Grand Prix, awarded only three times before in the competition’s history. Already hailed by critics as the ‘young tsar of the piano’ (Classica) and ‘Liszt reincarnate’ (Fanfare), he has received numerous other awards and is already being invited to perform at the highest level worldwide.
He began his career at an early stage and, at 16, made his debut at La Folle Journée festival in Nantes. Since then he has played with many of the world’s major orchestras, including regularly the Mariinsky Orchestra with Valery Gergiev, and tours with the Orchestre National de Toulouse, Budapest Festival Orchestra and the Munich Philharmonic.
In recital he appears at major concert halls such as the Concertgebouw Amsterdam in their Master Pianists series, Konzerthaus Berlin, Philharmonie de Paris, BOZAR in Brussels, Stockholm Konserthus and at the most prestigious festivals including La Roque d’Anthéron, Piano aux Jacobins, Verbier Festival and Klavierfest Ruhr. He regularly performs with Victor Julien-Laferrière, Renaud Capuçon, Daniel Lozakovick and Matthias Goerne.
Kantorow is a laureate of the Safran Foundation and Banque Populaire, and in 2019 was named ‘Musical Revelation of the Year’ by the Professional Critics Association. In 2020, he won the Victoires de la Musique Classique in two categories : Recording of the Year and Instrumental Soloist of the Year.
Languages spoken: French, English
Photo credit: Sasha Gusov
Arthur Ancelle
A free spirit among the pianists of his generation, Arthur Ancelle is noteworthy for his musical commitment, for the finesse and intelligence of his playing, for his nonconformism, as well as for the artistry of his piano transcriptions.
Arthur began to play the pianos at the age of three and the study of harmony when he was seven years old; he has obtained degrees in chamber music and in music pedagogy, and he received his Artist Diploma from the Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris. He holds multiple prizes from numerous international competitions from France, Russia, Bulgaria, Italy, Spain, or Australia, which have given him the opportunity to play in some of the greatest concert halls in the world, such as Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, Moscow and Saint-Petersburg Philharmonic Halls, Salle Gaveau and Salle Cortot…
Arthur Ancelle’s records stand out thanks to Arthur’s thorough research, which often leads him to question certain traditions of interpretation in the repertoire he approaches:
In Chopin’s works, his favorite composer, Arthur Ancelle “purges decades worth of expressive clichés from these over-recorded scores” (Gramophone), with “an obvious tone carried by considerable pianistic means” (artamag’); considering the “exceptional emotional saturation and the depth of the interpretation”, Piano Forum is “certain that he is in a position to open the way to a new interpretation of Chopin”.
Intelligent, witty, innovative, adventurous, free, inventive, lively, blazing, the epithets are not lacking to describe Arthur Ancelle’s revolutionary interpretation of Haydn’s sonatas. “Going to the edge of improvisation” (Cadences, France Musique), “Ancelle wants to captivate attention, so much so that we wonder what will happen, and he succeeds” (Classica).
Languages spoken: French, English and Russian
Photo credit: Nathanael Charpentier
Fanny Azzuro
Fanny Azzuro’s piano opens up her world and, with her keyboard, she follows all the paths which allow her to unlock her craving for repertoires, encounters and experiences.
In October 2021, she released a new album dedicated to the complete Preludes of Rachmaninov, for the British label Rubicon Classics—a first for a French woman pianist. Powerfully inspired by her mentor Boris Petrushansky, who taught her at the prestigious Accademia Pianistica Internazionale in Imola, she has developed a passion for the 20th-century Russian repertoire and has focussed on it in her latest recitals.
Thanks to her freshness and the poetry she conveys in her playing, she has already made an impression and “asserts her flamboyant and inquiring personality among the young generation of pianists.” (Pianiste)
Her latest album, 1905 Impressions,released in 2017, was a piano recital of works by Ravel, Debussy and Albéniz. It received many accolades: nominated at the International Classical Music Awards, Pianiste Maestro, 5 quavers from Pizzicato, 4 stars from Pianist Magazine and selected by Concertclassic: “Fanny Azzuro’s recording is a little gem!” It is still regularly played on Radio Classique and France Musique.
Her last seasons featured concerts at prestigious venues in the music world, including Carnegie Hall, the International Piano Festival of La Roque d’Anthéron, La Folle Journée de Nantes, Nohant Chopin Festival, the Lille Piano Festival and Salle Cortot in Paris.
After graduating from the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris, in piano and chamber music, she won many international competitions in France and the USA (Cincinnati and Washington). Officially a Yamaha Artist, she is also supported by Spedidam, the Mécénat Musical Société Générale, the Safran Foundation for Music and the Adami.
Languages spoken : French, English, Italian
Photo credit: Manuel Braun
Ludmila Berlinskaïa
“Honoured Artist of Russia”, Ludmila Berlinskaya played on the most prestigious stages in the world, including the Théâtre des Champs Elysées in Paris, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, Wigmore, Barbican and Royal Albert Halls in London, la Fenice in Venice, the Royal Academy of Brussels, the National Auditorium in Madrid, the City Hall of Hong Kong, St. Petersburg Philharmony and all major halls of Moscow, where she grew up.
Having first performed with the Borodin Quartet when she was 14, chamber music always was an important part of her life, she shared the stage with the most renowned artists of the international scene such as Mstislav Rostropovich, Yuri Bashmet, Ivry Gitlis, as well as several generations of great musicians among which Jean-Jacques Kantorow, Paul Meyer, Gérard Caussé, Alexander Knyazev, Gautier Capuçon, Henri Demarquette, Boris Andrianov, Christian-Pierre La Marca, and many quartets like the Modigliani, Van Kuijk, Orlando, Fine Arts, Ardeo, Danel, Rosamunde, St. Petersburg, RusQuartet, New Russian…
Immersed since childhood in the music of Shostakovich, she is now considered one of its finest performers. She plays all over the world his entire chamber music repertoire with piano, including rare and unpublished works.
A Melodiya artist since 2013, she recorded no less than 9 new albums for the prestigious russian label, and was awarded numerous prizes, among which Choc de Classica and Gramophone’s Editor’s Choice.
Since 2011, she has formed a piano duo with French pianist Arthur Ancelle : drawing their strength from their taste for sharing, taking risks, and exploring, they are a symbiotic couple on and off stage. Their multi-awarded recordings are praised internationally, they are invited by prestigious festivals (Tokyo Spring Festival, Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad, Lisztomanias…) and orchestras (St Petersburg Philharmonic, Freiburg Philharmonic…).
Languages spoken : French and Russian
Photo credit: Nathanael Charpentier
Michel Dalberto
Born in Paris in 1955, Michel Dalberto began playing on a toy piano at the age of 3 ½, made his first public appearance at 5 ½ and entered the Paris Conservatoire at 13 to study with Vlado Perlemuter. Today he is regarded as a direct heir of the great French Piano School founded by Alfred Cortot.
Dalberto’s career started after winning two of the most coveted international competitions: the Clara Haskil in 1975 and the Leeds in 1978. Major festivals and prominent orchestras have invited him with conductors including Wolfgang Sawallisch, Sir Colin Davis, Charles Dutoit, Yuri Temirkanov, Kurt Masur, Erich Leinsdorf and Daniele Gatti.
His vast repertoire is reflected by a discography with over 50 Cds. Of note, he is the only living pianist who has recorded the complete piano music of Franz Schubert. He has also played and conducted all of the Mozart Concertos.
He recently released a double CD featuring five Sonatas by Beethoven for which he received the rare Artist of the Year award given by Classica. In 2022 he released an all-Liszt CD (including the B-minor Sonata) which the daily paper « Le Monde » featured in a full-page interview.
Respected as an outstanding chamber music partner, Dalberto has collaborated with some of the world’s most renowned musicians, including Barbara Hendricks, Jessye Norman, Renaud Capuçon and Lynn Harrell.
Teaching is paramount for him. After holding a class at the Paris Conservatory (2011-2022), he teaches Piano and Chamber Music at the Menuhin School in Qingdao, is a Visiting Professor at the Weimar Hochschule and gives regular Masterclasses at the Rachmaninoff Conservatory in Paris.
The French Government awarded him the title of Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite in 1996.
An expert in gastronomy and wine, he is also an avid skier, a certified scuba-diver and passionate fan of vintage cars and auto racing.
Language spoken : french.
Photo credit : Lyodoh Kaneko.
Laure Favre-Kahn
After studying piano at the Avignon Conservatoire, at the age of 17 Laure Favre-Kahn was unanimously awarded a Premier Prix at the Paris Conservatoire (CNSM).
At 20, she recorded her first album dedicated to Schumann’s works, followed a year later by a Chopin CD.
Since then, she has regularly performed in France and abroad as a soloist and chamber musician, in particular with violinist Nemanja Radulovic. Laure has participated at major festivals and as a guest with numerous orchestras, while continuing to make recordings.
She can be heard regularly on France Musique, Radio Classique and France Inter. In 2001 she won first prize at the International Pro Piano Competition in New York, returning to the city the following year to make a recording and do a recital in Carnegie Hall.
In 2013, Laure Favre-Kahn created her own show at the Avignon Festival called ‘Chopin Confidences’ where she pays tribute to the composer, alone on stage, with the voice of Charles Berling.
Her 12th album, Vers la flamme was released by Naive in 2017 to unanimous praise by the press.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Emmanuel DONNY
Jean-Paul Gasparian
Born 1995 in Paris to parents who were both musicians, Jean-Paul Gasparian was admitted to the Paris Conservatoire (CNSM) at 14 and obtained his masters with distinction in 2015. His professors included Olivier Gardon, Jacques Rouvier, Michel Béroff and Laurent Cabasso. He went on to study at the CNSMDP with Michel Dalberto and Claire Désert, and at London’s Royal College of Music with Vanessa Latarche, fine tuning his skills with Elisso Virsaladze in Italy. He has also received advice from Tatiana Zelikman at Masterclasses abroad.
Jean-Paul has recorded three solo albums for the Evidence Classics label, all enthusiastically received by the French and foreign press. His latest album performing Rachmaninov was released in January 2022.
In February 2020 he was awarded the Thierry-Scherz Prize at Les Sommets Musicaux festival in Gstaad, which led to him recording a CD with the Berne Symphonic Orchestra for the Claves label that included Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Arno Babadjanian’s Heroic Ballade.
At France’s 2021 Victoires de la Musique, Jean-Paul won the instrumental soloist revelation category and in 2013 was awarded First Prize Philosophy at the Concours Général des Lycées.
In March 2014 he won at the prestigious Bremen European Competition, is artist in residence at the Singer-Polignac Foundation, and winner at the Villecroze Music Academy and Fondation l'Or du Rhin.
Languages spoken : English, Serbian and French.
Photo credit: Diego Rodriguez
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
Alexandre Kantorow
At 22 years old, Alexandre Kantorow is the first French pianist to win the gold medal at Tchaikovsky Competition as well as the Grand Prix, awarded only three times before in the competition’s history. Already hailed by critics as the ‘young tsar of the piano’ (Classica) and ‘Liszt reincarnate’ (Fanfare), he has received numerous other awards and is already being invited to perform at the highest level worldwide.
He began his career at an early stage and, at 16, made his debut at La Folle Journée festival in Nantes. Since then he has played with many of the world’s major orchestras, including regularly the Mariinsky Orchestra with Valery Gergiev, and tours with the Orchestre National de Toulouse, Budapest Festival Orchestra and the Munich Philharmonic.
In recital he appears at major concert halls such as the Concertgebouw Amsterdam in their Master Pianists series, Konzerthaus Berlin, Philharmonie de Paris, BOZAR in Brussels, Stockholm Konserthus and at the most prestigious festivals including La Roque d’Anthéron, Piano aux Jacobins, Verbier Festival and Klavierfest Ruhr. He regularly performs with Victor Julien-Laferrière, Renaud Capuçon, Daniel Lozakovick and Matthias Goerne.
Kantorow is a laureate of the Safran Foundation and Banque Populaire, and in 2019 was named ‘Musical Revelation of the Year’ by the Professional Critics Association. In 2020, he won the Victoires de la Musique Classique in two categories : Recording of the Year and Instrumental Soloist of the Year.
Languages spoken: French, English
Photo credit: Sasha Gusov
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.
The route of this cruise is a classic, yet like the classics we never tire of it. Leaving from Venice, slipping quietly away in front of St Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace, and returning to it early in the morning as life in the lagoon awakens, are two such memorable moments. And there are others each day, from dazzling Dubrovnik to the surprising Rovinj via Kotor’s spectacular bay and the always charming Hvar. And then we have this superb line-up of great pianists who will bear you away on a merry-go-round of musical delight. We have a young artist of Italian origin, Fanny Azzuro who has dedicated herself to a composer whose 150th anniversary is being celebrated this year, Sergei Rachmaninov; a great French piano master, Michel Dalberto, who has perfected a style that reminds us why he is one of the few French pianists to have won 1st Prize in the Clara Haskil Competition; a deliberately romantic pianist, Laure Favre-Kahn, who relishes in Chopin and Schumann; a new discovery in 27-year-old Jean-Paul Gasparian, one of the few French pianists to claim Russian school heritage while also having exceptional intellectual credentials among musicians (he won first prize for philosophy in the Concours Général), and whose Rachmaninov album caused a sensation; a 25-year-old artist who became an international star by winning, at the age of 22, the famous Tchaikovsky Competition (it has never been won by a French pianist since its launch in 1958!), Alexandre Kantorow now the only true global star of the piano; and finally a fabulous Franco-Russian duo comprising Russian Ludmila Berlinskaya and French pianist Arthur Ancelle to perform an original four-hand programme for piano.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alexandre Kantorow and Alain Duault.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the lagoon of Venice, the old town of Dubrovnik and Kotor, the Diocletian’s Palace in Split.
- Discover during one single cruise five Croatian cities, exceptional for their cultural and historic heritage and charm.
- In Montenegro, sailing in the bay of Kotor and a one-day stop in the town of Kotor.
- Possibility of exploring the magnificent Krka waterfalls in Croatia during an optional excursion on your cruise.
Ports of Call & Excursions
June 22, 2023 - Venice
Embarkation 6/22/2023 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 6/22/2023 at 5:30 PM
Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.
June 23, 2023 - Sibenik to Krka Falls (optional)
Arrival 6/23/2023 mid morning
Departure 6/23/2023 midday
When your ship drops anchor across from the Croatian village of Sibenik, in the heart of Central Dalmatia, you will have the possibility of discovering the exceptional Krka Waterfalls. Krka National Park, with its eight waterfalls formed by calcium carbonate deposited by the water as it flows along the Krka river, is one of the most spectacular in Croatia. During an optional excursion, visit this lush natural site boasting an incredibly rich fauna and flora.
June 23, 2023 - Split
Arrival 6/23/2023 mid afternoon
Departure 6/23/2023 late evening
On the Dalmatian coast, the town of Split offers cultural visits in a seaside atmosphere. Close to the seafront shaded by palm trees, the historical centre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a unique building: the Diocletian’s Palace. Here you will explore its galleries, courtyards with carved columns, as well as a former mausoleum converted into a church, namely Saint Domnius Cathedral. If you get peckish, stop off at a terrace in the Pjaca, the main square in the old town, where you can try a palacinka, a kind of pancake topped with melted cheese.
June 24, 2023 - Korcula
Arrival 6/24/2023 early afternoon
Departure 6/24/2023 late evening
This harbour town has a very special location, presiding on a spur on the north-eastern coast of the island of Korçula. The ramparts in its medieval district provide perfect vantage points over the Pelješac peninsula. To get there, you can take the monumental staircase in the Revelin Tower. Another way is to climb the steps in the shade of palm trees from the MorskaVrata (Marine portal). As you make your way through the little streets, you’ll see the bell-tower of Saint Mark’s cathedral rise above you. This landmark will help you locate the house where Marco Polo was born. The island also has some of its own famous wines like the red Plavac and the white Posip.
June 25, 2023 - Dubrovnik
Arrival 6/25/2023 early morning
Departure 6/25/2023 late evening
Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon. The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.
June 26, 2023 - Kotor
Arrival 6/26/2023 early morning
Departure 6/26/2023 late afternoon
Situated in one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, the medieval city of Kotor is a small town full of charm, truly imbued with the traditions and stories of another time. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, this village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has preserved many historical monuments from this epoch. During your stop, be sure to admire the impressive castle that dominates the town, and let yourself fall under the charm of its maze of small streets and intimate squares on which folk festivals featuring magnificent colourful costumes are often organised.
June 27, 2023 - Hvar
Arrival 6/27/2023 early morning
Departure 6/27/2023 late afternoon
Off the coast of Split, Hvar will surprise you by its traditions that have not changed since Antiquity. The country’s oldest town, Stari Grad, is here on this Dalmatian Island. The town nestles by a cove on the north-west coast, surrounded by dry stone wall structures on the Stari Grad plains. These have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site because they were built in the time of the Ancient Greeks. From these parcels of land come wines and olive oil manufactured manually. In the upper part of town, it is possible to discover hams and cheeses made by local producers.
June 28, 2023 - Rovinj
Arrival 6/28/2023 early morning
Departure 6/28/2023 evening
Rovinj is located in Istria, a region bordering Slovenia. This becomes apparent as you walk through its old cobblestoned town. There are many monuments of Venetian influence here. If you study the Balbi arch, you will see the winged lion, symbol of Venice. The bell-tower erected beside Saint Euphemia Cathedral was designed like the bell of Saint Mark in Venice. From the top of the tower, you can scan the entire historical district. To absorb its quaint atmosphere, take a walk in the ochre and sepia-coloured streets leading to bustling squares and terraces shaded by canvas awnings.
June 29, 2023 - Venice
Arrival 6/29/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 6/29/2023 at 8:00 AM
Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.
Yoga class at Sustipan park
From the pier, board your coach and enjoy a 15-minute drive toward Sustipan Park, a verdant park atop a seaside cliff. The park got its name after a Middle Ages monastery to St. Stephen, built under the pine trees and used as a final resting place of Croatian Kings. Nowadays, Sustipan has been turned into a beautiful park; a genuine little green oasis in the immediate vicinity of Marjan, where the reefs help form a breathtaking view over the deep sea and the islands in front of Split.
Take a deep breath and let yourself be guided by Tina Ticinovic, your yoga instructor for the day. As a verified Hatha yoga instructor and Tibetan reiki therapist, she will accompany you through this journey to your inner peace. Being a beginner or simply looking to refresh the fundamentals, you will be able to develop a practice of conscious and mindful movements in this unique surrounding, where the blue sky meets the green pine trees and the white dalmatian stone.
At the end of your yoga class, you will enjoy freshly made smoothies and a short stroll inside the park before heading back to the ship.
- This excursion involves very few walking on uneven floor with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable sport clothes. A yoga mat will be provided but please bring a towel and your bottle of water from the ship. The smoothies are included. This tour is limited to 15 participants.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.
Split & the Diocletian Palace
After the short walk (15 minutes) from the port to the Old Town you will start with the walking portion of the tour.
The Old Town of Split is built on and around the spectacular Roman Palace erected by the Roman Emperor Diocletian (born in Salona - todays Solin) in the 4th century. The walking tour starts with a visit of the Palace on the ground gallery that is still very well preserved. It offers a good view at how the life in the Palace was organised.
You will also visit the very interesting Cathedral of St. Duje (patron saint of the city). According to medieval sources, Archbishop John of Ravenna purified in 650 the mausoleum of Diocletian by getting rid of its idols and founded the Cathedral whose bell tower is now the symbol of Split.
The Cathedral is built on the remains of an ancient shrine and is supposed to be the oldest in the world. A visit will also be made to the charming Temple of Jupiter, turned into the baptistery by Christians. Observe the front panel or the ceiling with grotesque faces. Cross the Palace of the southern gate to the North door and discover the ramparts and the immense "statue of Gregory of Nin" by the Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.
After the walking tour you will head back to the ship. If you wish to spend some time on your own, you can visit the colourful open market (largest on the coast) or spend some time in the town before returning to the ship.
- This tour involves 1 mile (1.5 km) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). You have to walk 900 yards (800 m) between the ship and the palace entrance.
Total : €30
According to availability, price per passenger.
Dalmatia, between flavors & culture
From the pier, you will enjoy a walking tour starting with the Old Town. The Old Town of Split is built on and around the Roman Palace erected by the Roman Emperor Diocletian (born in Salona - todays Solin) in the 4th century. The walking tour will start with a visit of the Palace on the ground gallery that is still very well preserved.
You will see, from outside, the Cathedral of St. Duje (patron saint of the city). According to medieval sources, Archbishop John of Ravenna purified the mausoleum of Diocletian in 650 while getting rid of its idols and founded the Cathedral whose bell tower is now the symbol of Split. The Cathedral is built on the remains of an ancient shrine and is supposed to be the oldest in the world.
Then, you will see, from outside,the Temple of Jupiter, turned into a baptistery by the Christians. Observe the front panel or the ceiling with its grotesque faces. Cross the Palace from the southern gate to the North door and discover the ramparts and the immense 'statue of Gregory of Nin' by the Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.
After the walking tour, you will board your coach and drive to the Stella Croatica Ethno village, a 25-minute drive.
Upon arriving at Stella Croatica Ethno Village, you will meet your host who will show you the factory where local women still produce traditional delicacies by hand. You will enjoy a special tasting program, which includes cheese, wine and extra virgin olive oil.
Then, you will stroll trough the Mediterranean garden housing full of local herbs and plants, before stepping into the newly-constructed Olive Museum. You can learn all about the olive tree and olive oil, or “Liquid Gold” as it was named in these parts of Croatia.
Before reaching your ship, you will enjoy a tasting of traditional delicacies and test the natural cosmetics inside the Concept store.
- This tour involves 1 mile (1 km) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tastings are included in your tour. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must to be covered. This tour is limited to 45 participants.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Treasures & panorama of Dubrovnik
From the pier, meet your guide and start your stroll through the streets of this medieval town.
Along the way you will visit, among other places, the Franciscan Monastery whose cloister ranks among the most inspiring sites of the city. The Monastery houses also the oldest still working pharmacy in Europe and the third oldest pharmacy in the world founded in 1317. It is still active and still offers creams manufactured according to ancestral recipes.
After visiting the monastery, you will go to the Assumption Cathedral built in the 18th century on the ruins of a church dating from the 12th century destroyed by an earthquake in 1667. This one might surprise you by its simplicity and the clarity of its interior, but its treasure is among the richest in Europe, with a unique collection of relics in gold and silver.
You will continue with the Dominican Monastery, soberer than the previous one, and its museum with a fine collection of Renaissance paintings, including the triptych of N. Bozidarevic representing Dubrovnik before the earthquake or the table of Titian representing Sainte Madeleine and Saint Blaise.
Other fine buildings will be viewed from the outside, like the Sponza Palace notable for its columned courtyard with elaborate stone carvings, Church of Saint Blaise, Onofriou's Fountain, etc.
Then, you will go to the Dubrovnik cable car. A short ride will take you up to the top of Srd hill from where you can admire Dubrovnik Old town, Elaphite Islands and Lokrum.
Finally, you will get back to your ship.
- This tour is mainly done by foot on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is recommended to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. In case of religious office, the visit of the Cathedral will be cancelled. It is not permitted to take photos of the treasures. According to the period, some waiting time can be expected at the cable car.
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Culinary traditions with Miloslavic family
During this tour, you will be immersed in the lively and nature-oriented daily life of the Miloslavic family. They open their doors and their hearts to share their way of life and their love for their land, and what it has to offer, with you.
The Miloslavic family is now composed of six persons. Pero and Marija, the parents, and their 4 daughters Nevia, Mara, Pere and Nika. Pero’s father was among the first in the civil parish to have the OPG label, which stands for “Obiteljsko poljoprivredno gospodarstvo” (literally translates to a family farm, and more specifically an agricultural business made up of members of the same family), and Pero inherited it. This tradition has continued, and our hosts have passed it on to their 4 daughters. Today, you will be part of the family.
Away from the habitual kitchens and regular restaurants, discover the local cuisine full of homemade olive oil, wines, seasonal vegetables, homemade prosciutto and pancetta.
With the help of the Miloslavic family, you will prepare savoury meals, full of heritage and tastes of the Dubrovnik region. In this unique cooking class, you will learn how to appreciate each of the ingredients to their fullest, how to treat them, and how to savour their essence. The menu depends as much on the availability of ingredients. You will have the opportunity to get know and appreciate all the flavours of this cuisine using all your senses, in the comfortable setting of the rural family home.
Their farming philosophy meets the needs of existing and future generations, while also ensuring profitability, environmental health, and social and economic equity.
At the end of your experience, you will get acquainted with the Dubrovnik region with the help of locals, who are not only passionate about what they do for living, but also just as passionate about the land where they live.
Finally, it will be time to head back to your ship.
- This tour involves very few walking but on uneven and cobblestone paths with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Tastings are included in the tour.
Total : €220
According to availability, price per passenger.
Walking on Ston walls & oyster tasting
From the pier, board your coach for a 1-hour scenic drive along the Adriatic Road toward the town of Ston.
Ston was built according to the plans approved by the Dubrovnik government in 1335 and amended in 1370 and is considered one of the best planned and best structured cities in Europe. The walls of Ston were a massive architecture and construction feat. Originally 7,000 metre long (22,965 ft.), they consist of several parts; the Ston city walls, the Mali Ston city walls and the Big wall with its three forts. Its forts and towers are strengthened by 10 round and 31 square flanking towers, as well as 6 semicircular bastions. It took almost four centuries to finish these complex defence walls, as the builders had to adapt to the rough terrain and advancements in warfare technology. The walls were last used for defence in the 19th century, and today they are a priceless monument of immense architectural and cultural value.
Once arriving at Ston’s walls, you will start your hiking passing distance of almost 900 meters over demanding terrain with more than 150 steps before joining your coach for a ride to Mali Ston, the 'oysters capital' of Croatia.
Upon arrival in Mali Ston, you will board a local boat which will take you to oyster and mussel beds. Your host will welcome you on board and introduce you with oyster & mussel farming in this area. You will have the opportunity to learn about the oyster & mussel production as well as to taste freshly prepared oysters & mussels including mussel buzara (mussels cooked with wine, garlic and olive oil).
Finally, re-board your coach for a 1-hour return ride back to Dubrovnik along the old historical road passing through the old villages of Dubrovacko Primorje.
- This tour is an active hiking tour and involves approximately 1.4 miles (2.2 km) of walking on uneven and sloping grounds with over 170 steps. We recommend you wear comfortable hiking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tasting is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 34 participants.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sea kayaking
From the pier, you will walk 10 minutes to join the kayak centre.
Your tour will allow you to combine shore-side and offshore visits. You will have the chance to paddle and swim across the exotic coastal scenery of the small islands.
After receiving your safety instructions, board your kayak and start your adventure towards hidden coves and secluded pebble beaches.
Then, you will head to a beach for some time to relax or go for a refreshing swim while a local snack and a refreshment will be served.
Finally, you will head back to your ship.
- Children under the age of 12 and pregnant women may not participate. Participants must be good swimmers and physically fit. Please take a hat, sunglasses, shoes that can get wet, a towel from the ship and sunscreen. Please wear your swimwear under your clothes as there are no changing facilities or toilets available. You will be required to wear a life jacket. Waterproof compartments are available to store your belongings, however please keep these to a minimum. This tour is limited to 30 participants. 2-seater kayaks are available.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porec and its Basilica
From the pier, board your coach and start your 45-minute scenic drive to Porec.
Once arriving, you will start your walking tour of the old town.
You will begin with the Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the historic centre of Porec. The group of religious monuments in Porec, where Christianity was established as early as the 4th century, constitutes the most complete surviving complex of its type. The basilica, atrium, baptistery and Episcopal palace are outstanding examples of religious architecture, while the basilica itself combines classical and Byzantine elements.
This complex was enrolled in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997.
After the visit to the Episcopal Complex, you will have some free time in Porec before rejoining your coach for the drive back to Rovinj.
- This excursion involves around 1.5 miles (2 km) of walking on cobblestone ground with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : €45
According to availability, price per passenger.
Truffle hunting and tasting with Karlic family
Let yourself be guided by a tasty mix of history, sumptuous landscapes, and gourmet delights. Whether you are a truffle connoisseur or a novice, this experience will leave you with a unique memory.
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your 1-hour commented drive to Motovun. This medieval, hilltop town is a captivating symbol of the Istrian interior. Back then, Motovun forest was quite bigger than it is today, and both white and black truffles found in that area were among the best quality truffles to be found in Istria. You will enjoy a guided walk and some free time to explore the narrow streets of this singular village.
After another short, 15-minute bus drive, you will reach the Istria peninsula hinterland and the village of Paladini, where you will meet with the Karlic family: a grandfather, a mother, grandchildren, and their dogs at their farm. From Paladini, near Buzet, the Karlic family’s truffle business was established in 1966 by Mr Ivan Rašpolic.
Your hosts will first take you on a truffle hunt in their own woods, where they grow and harvest black truffles. All the truffles are hidden underground and can’t be found by your eye alone. However, the trained dogs are adept at recognizing their strong smell.
Back at the farm, they will introduce you to the history of truffles in Istra. You will taste delicious products made of truffles, all prepared by the family, including Istrian cheese with truffles, sausages with truffles, truffle paté, honey with truffles, olive oil with truffles. The highlight of your experience will be the preparation of the famous Istrian “fritaja” (scrambled eggs with truffles), where you will be invited to join in and cook the fritaja.
After this delightful moment, it will be time to re-board your coach and head back to your ship in Rovinj.
- This excursion involves 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking on uneven floor with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, protect yourself from the sun and bring insect repellent. The tasting is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 30 participants.
Total : €160
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Lyrial
First introduced in 2015 and the fourth ship in the Sisterships series, Le Lyrial is the very embodiment of this new generation of intimately sized cruise ships. Its exterior and interior lines, all sober understatement and refinement, make it a yacht of a rare and innovative kind.
For the interior decoration, we took inspiration from the tones and colours of our destinations and used a palette made up of blues, from the soft, luminous grey-like tones of the polar ice to the vivid notes and turquoises of Mediterranean inlets and coves.
Up to 244 Guests
122 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.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
6/22/2023 - PANORAMIC TRANSFER AND TIME AT LEISURE FROM AIRPORT TO THE PIER OF VENICE
$120
Find out more
PANORAMIC TRANSFER AND TIME AT LEISURE FROM AIRPORT TO THE PIER OF VENICE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer day time between Venice airport to Venice port.
Venice
Meet at Venice airport in the Arrival hall. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT. Your luggage will be taken directly to the ship by coach.
You will depart the airport for a short distance to the airport dock where you will embark on a private water taxi for a one-hour panoramic transfer to the pier. You will appreciate the beauty and the charm of the ride passing by the islands of Murano and San Michele, and along the Fondamente Nuove via the Canale della Giudecca.
Upon arrival at at Cornoldi pier on Riva degli Schiavoni (10 min of walking from St. Mark's Square), you will enjoy time at leisure.
Then your transfer will continue until the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer by a private water taxi as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide during the transfer.
- Separate transfer by coach for the luggage.
Your programme does not include:
- The lunch.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel advisor; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : $120
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
SECRETS OF VENICE (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 -Venice
Meet at Venice Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Splendid Venice 4*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Venice
After breakfast, you will leave your hotel by boat to explore some of the hidden gardens of the city, learn their history and find out what prompted the locals to create gardens in such a challenging environment. Gardens in Venice come as a surprise: although many of the palaces have their own small, private garden, when wandering around it is easy to get the impression that Venice is a city of stone.
The first stop is Nani Bernardo Palace, opened especially for a private visit. Designed by the architect Vittoria and commissioned the Bernardo family, the palace was built in the mid-16th century with a beautiful Italian garden. On the other side of the Grand Canal, you will then enjoy a private visit of Palazzo Malipiero.
Initially built in a Byzantine style, it has undergone some modifications over the centuries. The adjacent Italian-style garden with a view of the Grand Canal, a rarity in Venice, makes it even more distinctive.
Like many others, this garden was created in the late 18th century, when the large palace gardens situated on the outskirts of the city disappeared because of residential and industrial development.
You will then be transferred by boat to Sant’Erasmo. While this is the largest island in the Venetian lagoon, it is only sparsely populated. For years this has been Venice’s countryside, the agricultural zone which produces the fruit and vegetables consumed by the city-dwellers. Its artichokes are particularly renowned. You will take a walk through the vineyards of the Cantina Orto di Venezia estate, before tasting three vintages of locally produced Orto, a white wine full of this special island’s unique character. This wine is made from ancient Italian grape varieties; the vines are cultivated using traditional and eco-friendly methods. Driven by their passion and tenacity, the Thoulouze family have managed to recreate the ancestral methods of drainage using the natural tides of the lagoon.
Orto is a white wine with a high mineral content and a flavour that reflects its terroir. It can be drunk on any occasion but goes especially well with the products of the Venetian lagoon: fish, artichokes, and asparagus. It was recently named the best Italian Malvasia vintage.
After the visit, you will take a boat ride to Mazzorbo, a rural island connected to Burano by a wooden pedestrian bridge. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, you will return to Venice where you will learn the art of mask making.
Venetian masks have been worn in Venice since ancient times. They have a long history of protecting their wearer’s identity during promiscuous or decadent activities, such as gambling in one of the many casinos that dotted the city. The art of mask making is one of Venice’s oldest handicrafts. Guided by the desire to keep this traditional art form alive, a famous Venetian mask-making workshop will welcome you for a course in mask decoration including theory and practice. Once you have selected the type of mask you wish to decorate, you will choose among the different decorating techniques available and combine them to make your own one-of-a-kind Venetian mask.
The experts on hand will explain the ancient technique of making a Venetian papier-mâché mask, providing important historical information on the use of masks in Venice over past centuries, together with an explanation of the most significant models. At the end of the course, you will get to keep the mask you decorated, as a memento of this unforgettable experience.
You will return to your hotel by boat, to enjoy the rest of the day and evening at your leisure.
Day 3 - Venice
Breakfast at your hotel, morning at leisure and check-out.
You will then visit a tavern to enjoy a cooking lesson and learn the secrets of Venetian cuisine. With the chef’s guidance and supervision, you will create typical local dishes as you learn more about the culture and cuisine of the region. At the end of the lesson, you will eat what you prepared and toast to this memorable experience.
You will then be transferred by boat to the pier of Venice to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Splendid Venice 4* is a boutique-hotel in the heart of the historic centre of the city, near Saint Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace. Its location by the canals, its intimate atmosphere, and its refined style, will immediately immerge yourself into the Venetian spirit. Its 165 carefully equipped rooms offer a cosy cocoon combining contemporary design and Italian touch. The sophisticated decor of the Lounge Bar is a perfecto place to have a break overlooking the city and its canals. While the restaurant Le Maschere takes you between land and sea in the heart of the authenticity of the Venetian terroir.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 2-night accommodation in Superior room at Splendid Venice hotel 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 beer and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinners.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or guests on wheelchair.
- Early check-in and late check-out can be requested depending on availability and at a supplement.
Contact of your hotel:
The Splendid Venice
S. Marco Mercerie, 760
30124 Venice
Italy
Telephone: +39 041 5200755
Duration and order of the visits may vary.To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $2,100
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Yoga class at Sustipan park
From the pier, board your coach and enjoy a 15-minute drive toward Sustipan Park, a verdant park atop a seaside cliff. The park got its name after a Middle Ages monastery to St. Stephen, built under the pine trees and used as a final resting place of Croatian Kings. Nowadays, Sustipan has been turned into a beautiful park; a genuine little green oasis in the immediate vicinity of Marjan, where the reefs help form a breathtaking view over the deep sea and the islands in front of Split.
Take a deep breath and let yourself be guided by Tina Ticinovic, your yoga instructor for the day. As a verified Hatha yoga instructor and Tibetan reiki therapist, she will accompany you through this journey to your inner peace. Being a beginner or simply looking to refresh the fundamentals, you will be able to develop a practice of conscious and mindful movements in this unique surrounding, where the blue sky meets the green pine trees and the white dalmatian stone.
At the end of your yoga class, you will enjoy freshly made smoothies and a short stroll inside the park before heading back to the ship.
- This excursion involves very few walking on uneven floor with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable sport clothes. A yoga mat will be provided but please bring a towel and your bottle of water from the ship. The smoothies are included. This tour is limited to 15 participants.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.
Split & the Diocletian Palace
After the short walk (15 minutes) from the port to the Old Town you will start with the walking portion of the tour.
The Old Town of Split is built on and around the spectacular Roman Palace erected by the Roman Emperor Diocletian (born in Salona - todays Solin) in the 4th century. The walking tour starts with a visit of the Palace on the ground gallery that is still very well preserved. It offers a good view at how the life in the Palace was organised.
You will also visit the very interesting Cathedral of St. Duje (patron saint of the city). According to medieval sources, Archbishop John of Ravenna purified in 650 the mausoleum of Diocletian by getting rid of its idols and founded the Cathedral whose bell tower is now the symbol of Split.
The Cathedral is built on the remains of an ancient shrine and is supposed to be the oldest in the world. A visit will also be made to the charming Temple of Jupiter, turned into the baptistery by Christians. Observe the front panel or the ceiling with grotesque faces. Cross the Palace of the southern gate to the North door and discover the ramparts and the immense "statue of Gregory of Nin" by the Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.
After the walking tour you will head back to the ship. If you wish to spend some time on your own, you can visit the colourful open market (largest on the coast) or spend some time in the town before returning to the ship.
- This tour involves 1 mile (1.5 km) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). You have to walk 900 yards (800 m) between the ship and the palace entrance.
Total : €30
According to availability, price per passenger.
Dalmatia, between flavors & culture
From the pier, you will enjoy a walking tour starting with the Old Town. The Old Town of Split is built on and around the Roman Palace erected by the Roman Emperor Diocletian (born in Salona - todays Solin) in the 4th century. The walking tour will start with a visit of the Palace on the ground gallery that is still very well preserved.
You will see, from outside, the Cathedral of St. Duje (patron saint of the city). According to medieval sources, Archbishop John of Ravenna purified the mausoleum of Diocletian in 650 while getting rid of its idols and founded the Cathedral whose bell tower is now the symbol of Split. The Cathedral is built on the remains of an ancient shrine and is supposed to be the oldest in the world.
Then, you will see, from outside,the Temple of Jupiter, turned into a baptistery by the Christians. Observe the front panel or the ceiling with its grotesque faces. Cross the Palace from the southern gate to the North door and discover the ramparts and the immense 'statue of Gregory of Nin' by the Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.
After the walking tour, you will board your coach and drive to the Stella Croatica Ethno village, a 25-minute drive.
Upon arriving at Stella Croatica Ethno Village, you will meet your host who will show you the factory where local women still produce traditional delicacies by hand. You will enjoy a special tasting program, which includes cheese, wine and extra virgin olive oil.
Then, you will stroll trough the Mediterranean garden housing full of local herbs and plants, before stepping into the newly-constructed Olive Museum. You can learn all about the olive tree and olive oil, or “Liquid Gold” as it was named in these parts of Croatia.
Before reaching your ship, you will enjoy a tasting of traditional delicacies and test the natural cosmetics inside the Concept store.
- This tour involves 1 mile (1 km) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tastings are included in your tour. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must to be covered. This tour is limited to 45 participants.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Treasures & panorama of Dubrovnik
From the pier, meet your guide and start your stroll through the streets of this medieval town.
Along the way you will visit, among other places, the Franciscan Monastery whose cloister ranks among the most inspiring sites of the city. The Monastery houses also the oldest still working pharmacy in Europe and the third oldest pharmacy in the world founded in 1317. It is still active and still offers creams manufactured according to ancestral recipes.
After visiting the monastery, you will go to the Assumption Cathedral built in the 18th century on the ruins of a church dating from the 12th century destroyed by an earthquake in 1667. This one might surprise you by its simplicity and the clarity of its interior, but its treasure is among the richest in Europe, with a unique collection of relics in gold and silver.
You will continue with the Dominican Monastery, soberer than the previous one, and its museum with a fine collection of Renaissance paintings, including the triptych of N. Bozidarevic representing Dubrovnik before the earthquake or the table of Titian representing Sainte Madeleine and Saint Blaise.
Other fine buildings will be viewed from the outside, like the Sponza Palace notable for its columned courtyard with elaborate stone carvings, Church of Saint Blaise, Onofriou's Fountain, etc.
Then, you will go to the Dubrovnik cable car. A short ride will take you up to the top of Srd hill from where you can admire Dubrovnik Old town, Elaphite Islands and Lokrum.
Finally, you will get back to your ship.
- This tour is mainly done by foot on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is recommended to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. In case of religious office, the visit of the Cathedral will be cancelled. It is not permitted to take photos of the treasures. According to the period, some waiting time can be expected at the cable car.
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Culinary traditions with Miloslavic family
During this tour, you will be immersed in the lively and nature-oriented daily life of the Miloslavic family. They open their doors and their hearts to share their way of life and their love for their land, and what it has to offer, with you.
The Miloslavic family is now composed of six persons. Pero and Marija, the parents, and their 4 daughters Nevia, Mara, Pere and Nika. Pero’s father was among the first in the civil parish to have the OPG label, which stands for “Obiteljsko poljoprivredno gospodarstvo” (literally translates to a family farm, and more specifically an agricultural business made up of members of the same family), and Pero inherited it. This tradition has continued, and our hosts have passed it on to their 4 daughters. Today, you will be part of the family.
Away from the habitual kitchens and regular restaurants, discover the local cuisine full of homemade olive oil, wines, seasonal vegetables, homemade prosciutto and pancetta.
With the help of the Miloslavic family, you will prepare savoury meals, full of heritage and tastes of the Dubrovnik region. In this unique cooking class, you will learn how to appreciate each of the ingredients to their fullest, how to treat them, and how to savour their essence. The menu depends as much on the availability of ingredients. You will have the opportunity to get know and appreciate all the flavours of this cuisine using all your senses, in the comfortable setting of the rural family home.
Their farming philosophy meets the needs of existing and future generations, while also ensuring profitability, environmental health, and social and economic equity.
At the end of your experience, you will get acquainted with the Dubrovnik region with the help of locals, who are not only passionate about what they do for living, but also just as passionate about the land where they live.
Finally, it will be time to head back to your ship.
- This tour involves very few walking but on uneven and cobblestone paths with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Tastings are included in the tour.
Total : €220
According to availability, price per passenger.
Walking on Ston walls & oyster tasting
From the pier, board your coach for a 1-hour scenic drive along the Adriatic Road toward the town of Ston.
Ston was built according to the plans approved by the Dubrovnik government in 1335 and amended in 1370 and is considered one of the best planned and best structured cities in Europe. The walls of Ston were a massive architecture and construction feat. Originally 7,000 metre long (22,965 ft.), they consist of several parts; the Ston city walls, the Mali Ston city walls and the Big wall with its three forts. Its forts and towers are strengthened by 10 round and 31 square flanking towers, as well as 6 semicircular bastions. It took almost four centuries to finish these complex defence walls, as the builders had to adapt to the rough terrain and advancements in warfare technology. The walls were last used for defence in the 19th century, and today they are a priceless monument of immense architectural and cultural value.
Once arriving at Ston’s walls, you will start your hiking passing distance of almost 900 meters over demanding terrain with more than 150 steps before joining your coach for a ride to Mali Ston, the 'oysters capital' of Croatia.
Upon arrival in Mali Ston, you will board a local boat which will take you to oyster and mussel beds. Your host will welcome you on board and introduce you with oyster & mussel farming in this area. You will have the opportunity to learn about the oyster & mussel production as well as to taste freshly prepared oysters & mussels including mussel buzara (mussels cooked with wine, garlic and olive oil).
Finally, re-board your coach for a 1-hour return ride back to Dubrovnik along the old historical road passing through the old villages of Dubrovacko Primorje.
- This tour is an active hiking tour and involves approximately 1.4 miles (2.2 km) of walking on uneven and sloping grounds with over 170 steps. We recommend you wear comfortable hiking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tasting is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 34 participants.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sea kayaking
From the pier, you will walk 10 minutes to join the kayak centre.
Your tour will allow you to combine shore-side and offshore visits. You will have the chance to paddle and swim across the exotic coastal scenery of the small islands.
After receiving your safety instructions, board your kayak and start your adventure towards hidden coves and secluded pebble beaches.
Then, you will head to a beach for some time to relax or go for a refreshing swim while a local snack and a refreshment will be served.
Finally, you will head back to your ship.
- Children under the age of 12 and pregnant women may not participate. Participants must be good swimmers and physically fit. Please take a hat, sunglasses, shoes that can get wet, a towel from the ship and sunscreen. Please wear your swimwear under your clothes as there are no changing facilities or toilets available. You will be required to wear a life jacket. Waterproof compartments are available to store your belongings, however please keep these to a minimum. This tour is limited to 30 participants. 2-seater kayaks are available.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porec and its Basilica
From the pier, board your coach and start your 45-minute scenic drive to Porec.
Once arriving, you will start your walking tour of the old town.
You will begin with the Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the historic centre of Porec. The group of religious monuments in Porec, where Christianity was established as early as the 4th century, constitutes the most complete surviving complex of its type. The basilica, atrium, baptistery and Episcopal palace are outstanding examples of religious architecture, while the basilica itself combines classical and Byzantine elements.
This complex was enrolled in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997.
After the visit to the Episcopal Complex, you will have some free time in Porec before rejoining your coach for the drive back to Rovinj.
- This excursion involves around 1.5 miles (2 km) of walking on cobblestone ground with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : €45
According to availability, price per passenger.
Truffle hunting and tasting with Karlic family
Let yourself be guided by a tasty mix of history, sumptuous landscapes, and gourmet delights. Whether you are a truffle connoisseur or a novice, this experience will leave you with a unique memory.
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your 1-hour commented drive to Motovun. This medieval, hilltop town is a captivating symbol of the Istrian interior. Back then, Motovun forest was quite bigger than it is today, and both white and black truffles found in that area were among the best quality truffles to be found in Istria. You will enjoy a guided walk and some free time to explore the narrow streets of this singular village.
After another short, 15-minute bus drive, you will reach the Istria peninsula hinterland and the village of Paladini, where you will meet with the Karlic family: a grandfather, a mother, grandchildren, and their dogs at their farm. From Paladini, near Buzet, the Karlic family’s truffle business was established in 1966 by Mr Ivan Rašpolic.
Your hosts will first take you on a truffle hunt in their own woods, where they grow and harvest black truffles. All the truffles are hidden underground and can’t be found by your eye alone. However, the trained dogs are adept at recognizing their strong smell.
Back at the farm, they will introduce you to the history of truffles in Istra. You will taste delicious products made of truffles, all prepared by the family, including Istrian cheese with truffles, sausages with truffles, truffle paté, honey with truffles, olive oil with truffles. The highlight of your experience will be the preparation of the famous Istrian “fritaja” (scrambled eggs with truffles), where you will be invited to join in and cook the fritaja.
After this delightful moment, it will be time to re-board your coach and head back to your ship in Rovinj.
- This excursion involves 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking on uneven floor with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, protect yourself from the sun and bring insect repellent. The tasting is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 30 participants.
Total : €160
According to availability, price per passenger.
DIRECT TRANSFER FROM PORT TO VENICE AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Venice
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative. You will be taken by coach to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers by coach.
- Services of a local English-speaking assistant.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel advisor; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : $60
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.