Superior Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
226 ft²
3
Authentic Shores of Sicily
Valletta - Valletta
Dates:
10/3/2026
to
10/10/2026
days
nights on board
Majestic volcanoes, fertile valleys, emblematic ancient sites, enchanting islands… Set off to discover the treasures of the eastern coast of Sicily and the Maltese shores. During these 8 days of travel, Le Boréal will take you to discover mythical sites at the crossroads of eastern and western civilisations.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, discover the Greco-Roman theatre of Taormina and its spectacular views over Mount Etna; dive into Sicilian baroque architecture with a visit to the village of Noto from Syracuse; or admire Reggio Calabria and the famous Riace bronzes during a visit to its prestigious National Museum of Magna Graecia. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
You will begin your cruise in Valletta. This capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to many historical sites: St John's Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and the churches of Our Lady of Victory, Saint Catherine and il Gesù.
Setting sail from Malta, your next stop is Taormina, overlooking Etna’s blanket of snow. Its streets will lead you to its famed ancient Greek theatre, where the quality of the acoustics is exceptional.
Le Boréal will set sail north-east, to the tip of the Italian boot, for Reggio de Calabre. Fall under the spell of the fragrance of bergamot, the citrus fruit that dominates the region, in this charming city with its Art Nouveau and Belle Époque influences, as well as the outstanding panoramas provided by the lungomare, the sea front promenade, of the Sicilian coastline and Etna. A cultural jewel of Sicily, Palermo is a splendid witness to three thousand years of history where you will be able to visit emblematic landmarks such as the 12th-century cathedral and Teatro Massimo, one of the largest theatres in Europe.
A little further north, you will discover the Aeolian islands. Lipari is the capital of the Aeolian volcanic archipelago and is renowned for its many natural and architectural gems.
Then, you will set sail for Syracuse, one of the most prestigious Sicilian cities, whose monuments are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage.
Then you will head for Malta and Gozo, an unspoiled island that is home to a megalithic site listed with UNESCO. On foot, kayak or bike, explore the island and its spectacular scenery, from the endless turquoise sea to the dreamlike decor of the salt marshes. Do not miss your chance to taste the local wines.
Your cruise will come to an end in Valletta, former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.
Ref : BO031026
Your itinerary
A cruise discovering antique gems of the eastern coast of Sicily and captivating Maltese landscapes. Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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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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3/3/2025 to the 3/21/2025
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
*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.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (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
- 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
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
Highlights
- A cruise discovering antique gems of the eastern coast of Sicily and captivating Maltese landscapes.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Mount Etna from Taormina and its Greek Theatre, Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monrealethe Aeolian Islands, the old town of Syracuse, the temples of Ggantija on the island of Gozo, Valetta (embarkation and disembarkation port).
- The port of call in Reggio de Calabre, featuring remarkable architecture and delightful panoramas.
- Discovering the natural and preserved beauty of the Aeolian Islands.
- Explore Sicily's most beautiful historic cities and ancient sites: Syracuse, Taormina and its theatre, Palermo.
- The Maltese island of Gozo, its emblematic historical sites, its magnificent salt marshes and its vineyards to be discovered.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
October 3, 2026 - Valletta
Embarkation 10/3/2026 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 10/3/2026 at 6:00 PM
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.
October 4, 2026 - Taormina, Sicily
Arrival 10/4/2026 late morning
Departure 10/4/2026 early evening
Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, in the province of Messina, the seaside town of Taormina is Sicily’s Saint-Tropez, boasting heritage sites, secluded beaches and luxury shopping. You can visit its medieval centre, suspended 300 metres above sea level, where terraces offer a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another vestige from its past are the ruins of the Greco-Roman theatre. This extremely well-preserved site attracts visitors who are fascinated by the natural beauty of the area which overlooks a turquoise bay.
October 5, 2026 - Reggio di Calabria
Arrival 10/5/2026 early morning
Departure 10/5/2026 late afternoon
At the southern tip of the Italian boot, Reggio di Calabria guards the eastern shore of the Strait of Messina. From the lungomare, the sea front promenade, there are magnificent views over Sicily, a little over 3 km away, and Etna. Rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, Reggio is set out in a grid pattern and has Art Nouveau and Belle Époque architecture that add to its charm. And the fragrance of bergamot, the citrus fruit that dominates the region’s confectionery and perfumery. A visit to the National Archaeological Museum is a must. It is one of the most important in Italy and among its collections are the famous Riace Bronzes, the stunning Greek statues dating from the 5th century BC that were found off the coast in 1972.
October 6, 2026 - Palermo, Sicily
Arrival 10/6/2026 early morning
Departure 10/6/2026 late evening
Palermo is the guardian of the Sicilian soul. Many have been attracted to this city, the largest capital of the Italian islands. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans... Palermo is a rich culmination of so many cultural influences as seen in the Moorish designs on the cathedral, and the Byzantine mosaics of the Palatine chapel, which is itself housed within the precincts of the Norman palace. You will fall under the spell of the palaces, baroque splendours that grace the town with their obsolete beauty. It is thrilling to stumble upon one of those fabulous markets, high in colour, and headily picturesque.
October 7, 2026 - Lipari, Aeolian Islands
Arrival 10/7/2026 early morning
Departure 10/7/2026 late afternoon
Of the seven Aeolian islands, this is the largest and the most populated. Lying off the north coast of Sicily, in the Tyrrhenian sea, Lipari is one of UNESCO’s marvellous World Heritage sites. Its lava stone quarries and obsidian flow of Rocce Rosse are indications of its volcanic nature. The town, the largest urban area in the whole archipelago, proudly houses its citadel and its castle, both rooted in Antiquity. If you head further into the centre, you’ll be surprised to come across a Norman cathedral, complete with a magnificent baroque façade.
October 8, 2026 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 10/8/2026 early morning
Departure 10/8/2026 early evening
Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.
October 9, 2026 - Gozo
Arrival 10/9/2026 early morning
Departure 10/9/2026 mid afternoon
Located to the north of Malta, a lot less urbanised than its larger sibling and protected from mass tourism, the small island of Gozo has managed to remain natural and authentic. Lush hills and valleys alternate with a mosaic of cultivated fields. The buildings, some of which are medieval, are built from honey-coloured limestone and blend in perfectly with the surrounding scenery. Gozo also boasts a unique historic site that is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the megalithic temples of Ggantija near the town of Xaghra. An archaeological museum adjoining the site presents a number of objects that were found there. Red-sand beaches and a crystal-clear sea add to the calm and serenity of Gozo.
October 10, 2026 - Valletta
Arrival 10/10/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 10/10/2026 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.
Le Boréal
Le Boréal, like its Sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial, epitomises the unique feel and atmosphere of the ships of the PONANT fleet. Subtly combining luxury, intimacy and serene well-being, the ship has been designed to offer passengers both moments of conviviality and spaces conducive to peaceful tranquillity and a sense of escape and getting away from it all. Its exterior and interior lines testify to the ingeniousness and refinement with which the Sisterships have been designed.
Decks
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
HALF DAY IN VALLETTA
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between airport and your port of embarkation.
Valletta
Meet at Malta Airport - Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign.
You will be greeted by our local English speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
Depart the airport accompanied by your local guide. You will first stop at a local café for tasting of Maltese nibbles before starting your half day visit.
Drive to Valletta – Malta’s Capital city which will be hosting the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018. A City built by gentlemen for gentlemen. Valletta is a fortified city located on a hilly peninsula between two of the finest natural harbours in the Mediterranean. Walk to the Museum of Archaeology, housed at the Auberge de Provence. Visit the museum with your guide and discover a spectacular range of artefacts which date back to Malta’s Neolithic Period up to the Phoenician Period. Walk past Auberge de Castille, built in the 1570s to house the knights of the Order of Saint John from the langue of Castile, León and Portugal. Today it houses the Offices of the Prime Minister.
Afterward, you will go the Upper Barracca Gardens where you can admire Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. The upper Barracca Gardens date back to 1661 when it used to be a private Garden of the Knights.
Enjoy some free time before taking back your coach to your ship.
Your programme includes:
-
Transfers, and visits as mentioned in the programme
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the driver and local guide
-
Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme
Duration and price of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; 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.VISIT OF MDINA AND PALAZZO PARISIO
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organizes your daytime between airport and embarkation port.
Valletta
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at pier by our local representative.
Drive to Dingli Cliff for a photostop brefore Mdina visiting. Then, proceed to Mdina - Malta’s Old Capital, one of the locations used by the film “Black Eagle” featuring Jean-Claude Van Damme, and by “Game of Thrones” series. Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city, with its extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture.
Then, Mosta discovery, famous for its church and its spectacular dome inspired by the Pantheon, in Rome.
Continue with the visit of Palazzo Parisio, a unique 19th century palace in the heart of the Mediterranean. Palazzo Parisio is not only another palace of the legendary Knights of St. John, but the ultimate memorial of ambitions, aspirations and pretensions of a 19th century noble family. It houses two baroque walled gardens, including a lovely orangery – a miniature Versailles.
Enjoy a small snack in the Palace.
Transfer to Malta Airport on time for the flight selected by PONANT.
Your programme includes:
-
Transfers, and visits as mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration and price of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; 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 : $230
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.