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Epicurean Delights of Southern Italy and Sicily
Valletta - Civitavecchia (Rome)
Dates:
10/16/2021
to
10/23/2021
8
days
days
7
nights on board
nights on board
Starting from*
$5,270
20% Ponant Bonus
Quintessential Collection 
Guest Speaker 
No single supplement Quintessential Collection Included Cruise Package
Created specially for like-minded travellers.
Join Mediterranean food expert Nancy Harmon Jenkins and Italian wine expert Barbara D’Agapiti on this very special exploration of the foods and wines of Southern Italy and Sicily.
Food—its cultivation, preparation, and consumption—has always been central to the Italian way of life. This one-of-a-kind program is an extraordinary opportunity both to study and to experience the various roles food and wine play in our lives and its relation to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Immerse yourself in the bounty of Southern Italy and Sicily’s regional cuisines as we sample the pastas of Syracuse and the wines of Mt. Etna, the artisanal meats and cheese of Calabria, mozzarella from Agropoli, and pizza from Naples. Taking advantage of rich volcanic soils and a variety of splendid grapes, wonderful reds and whites and sparkling wines characteristic of each region abound. We will taste them all.
A sure highlight of our cruise will be an exclusive private dinner at the Michelin-starred Palazzo Petrucci in Naples. The restaurant overlooks the Gulf of Naples with views of Capri, the Sorrentine Peninsula, and Vesuvius. During sunset, sip Italian sparkling wine and sample a variety of finger foods. The chef and sommeliers will talk about local foods and wines before a five-course tasting menu, including wine pairings. Relax and enjoy a hearty dose of La Dolce Vita!
In addition to these culinary-tailored activities, we will have the opportunity to see the ruins of the ancient Greeks at Syracuse, Taormina, and Paestum; to discover the iconic Roman sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum; and to discover inviting medieval towns, including Noto and Pizzo. Seldom is there such an opportunity to enjoy such a rich feast.
Ref : VC0945 - Q161021
Your itinerary
Our Food and Wine theme voyages blend the expertise of chefs with lectures and discussions with experts on the social and cultural aspects of cuisine. We combine sampling of local foods and wines with an...
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Choose your stateroom
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, double occupancy, is based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of cabin to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Quintessential Collection Included Cruise Package
Saturday, October 16, 2021. You will be met at Malta International Airport in Valletta, Malta, and transferred to the port to embark Le Jacques-Cartier.
Thursday, October 21. This evening, attend an exclusive private dinner at the Michelin-starred Palazzo Petrucci. The restaurant, which overlooks the Gulf of Naples with views of Capri, the Sorrentine Peninsula, and Vesuvius, will be open exclusively for your group. You will arrive at Palazzo Petrucci in time to appreciate the sunset as you sip Italian Champagne and sample a variety of finger foods. The chef and sommeliers will talk to you about local foods and wines before you proceed to the dining rooms and a five-course tasting menu of the chef’s choice, including wine pairings. Throughout dinner, the maître, sommeliers, and waiters will be available to answer questions about the dishes, and there may be an opportunity to visit the kitchen. A truly magnificent introduction to Neapolitan cuisine!
Saturday, October 23. After disembarkation in Civitavecchia, you will be transferred to Leonardo da Vinci Rome-Fiumicino International Airport for your flight home.
Included features:
• Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Valletta to the ship on the day of embarkation
• An exclusive private dinner at the Michelin-starred Palazzo Petrucci in Naples as described above
• Comprehensive 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Jacques-Cartier, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
• Transfer from the ship to the airport in Rome at the end of the cruise on the day of disembarkation
Not included:
• Meals and beverages ashore other than those specified above
• Optional excursions
• Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, Internet, etc.)
Notes:
• This voyage is offered on a space available basis.
• Program is subject to change without notice.
Services provided
- Individually-controlled airconditioning
- Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating staterooms available (Children welcome)
- Minibar
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Video on demand
- Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
- Desk with stationery
- Safe
- Hermès® bath products
- Dressing table, bath robes, Hairdryer
- Direct line telephone
- 110V American (two flat pins) /220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 24hr room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi
Choose your stateroom category
-
Deluxe Stateroom
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Prestige Deck 4
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Prestige Deck 5
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Prestige Deck 6
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
20% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
20% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
20% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
20% Ponant Bonus
38 m2
4
-
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
20% Ponant Bonus
38 m2
4
-
Privilege Suite Deck 6
20% Ponant Bonus
32 m2
3
-
Privilege Suite Deck 5
20% Ponant Bonus
32 m2
3
-
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
20% Ponant Bonus
45 m2
4
-
Owner's Suite
45 m2
4
Our guests
Nancy Harmon Jenkins
Nancy Harmon Jenkins is a widely recognized authority on Mediterranean cuisines, the Mediterranean diet and its consequences for good health, extra-virgin olive oil and its qualities, and (to her own surprise) on ancient Egyptian maritime technology. She is the author of many books, the latest of which is a collaboration with her daughter, Chef Sara Jenkins: The Four Seasons of Pasta (Avery Books, 2015). Also in 2015, she published Virgin Territory: Exploring the World of Olive Oil (Houghton Mifflin). Nancy has written countless newspaper and magazine articles on Italian cuisine for the likes of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine, and Bon Appetit; and she is a frequent commentator on radio and television programs, including for NPR’s The Splendid Table, Good Food, and All Things Considered, and for the BBC’s The Food Programme. Nancy has lived, worked, cooked, traveled, gardened, and raised two children in many parts of the Mediterranean, from Madrid to Beirut and back, with a long stay in Italy where she spends as much time as possible on her family’s Tuscan farm and olive oil retreat. When she’s not in Italy or traveling the world, she lives in a small town on the coast of Maine.
Language spoken: English
Photo credit: Lily Piel
Barbara D'Agapiti
For more than 10 years, Barbara D’Agapiti and her company, Wine Link Italy, have been well-respected names on the enogastronomic scene in Italy. Originally from the lovely Castelli Romani area near Rome, a zone historically famous for wine production, Barbara grew up in a traditional Italian family where her grandparents formed an integral part of the household. For her first ten years, Barbara was fortunate enough to be fed what her grandparents produced – eggs, poultry, pigs, the fruits of an extended vegetable patch, and yes, the occasional sip of homemade wine. Having been spoiled with a taste of Italy’s finest products from a young age, she knows where to go when it comes to food and wine.
In 2001 Barbara’s father urged her get out in the world. Her first stop was at Università di Perugia to study Economics and Tourism Management. An encounter with a young man named Antony would forever change her life. A trained sommelier and son of a restaurateur, Antony helped her discover new tastes in the fascinating world of food and wine. It was also Anthony who brought Barbara in contact with renowned gastronomer Maestro Salvatore Denaro, a unique personality with an insatiable passion for all that lives and grows. Salvatore was ahead of his time with his Enoteca wine bar and farm to table restaurant Il Bacco Felice where he served delicious dishes with produce from his own garden. Her crash course in good hospitality at Il Bacco Felice affirmed Barbara of the importance of provenance, freshness, and seasonality of raw ingredients. Barbara thereby continued a lifelong search for excellence and a strong will to share her experiences with visitors to Italy from all over the world.
Becoming an expert involves a lot of tastings, quizzing producers, and travelling, but Barbara has also accumulated a broad set of certifications and diplomas. She is a qualified olive oil taster, a certified Associazione Italiana Sommelier, holder of the WSET Level 2 diploma and working towards Level 3, an active member of the Slow Food Italia association, and a contributing writer to the yearly Slow Wine Guide. Lately Barbara is studying artisanal wine with well-known writer and journalist Sandro Sangiorgi of Porthos fame. From early on Barbara has embraced and promoted small wine producers who have peeked outside the somewhat strict regional rules of wine production. These producers and their vini artigianali (artisanal wines) are pushing the boundaries of winemaking and opening new horizons on the taste front.
Barbara’s friendliness and professionalism will make for an unforgettable trip with the right balance between knowledge and fun. As one of her guests put it: “From the wine aficionado to the curious newbie, Barbara shares her passion with generosity, creating that ancestral, magic atmosphere that can be found in simple, exceptionally human things: like telling stories over food and wine, and coming to understand a place and its culture by truly, mindfully living it."
Languages spoken: English, Italian
Photo credit: All rights reserved
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Packing Checklist
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:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, 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.
Advice
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
Our Food and Wine theme voyages blend the expertise of chefs with lectures and discussions with experts on the social and cultural aspects of cuisine. We combine sampling of local foods and wines with an appreciation of the importance of food and drink beyond mere sustenance, exploring how the cultivation, preparation, and consumption of food is at the center of so much human activity and how the experience of dining – food, drink, and dialogue – shapes our sense of self and of community.
- A series of presentations, discussions, and tastings on board with food and wine experts Nancy Harmon Jenkins and Barbara D’Agapiti
- An included and exclusive private dinner at the Michelin-starred Palazzo Petrucci in Naples
- Six UNESCO World Heritage sites en route: City of Valletta, Syracuse, Mount Etna, Archaeological Site of Paestum, Historic Center of Naples, and Archaeological Areas of Pompeii and Herculaneum
- Optional excursions to artisan food producers, agriturismo sites, markets, and wineries in ports of call throughout the cruise
- Optional excursions to iconic ancient and cultural sites
Ports of Call & Excursions
October 16, 2021 Valletta
Embarkation 10/16/2021 from 16h00 to 17h00
Departure 10/16/2021 at 18h00
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 17, 2021 Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 10/17/2021 early morning
Departure 10/17/2021 late afternoon
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 18, 2021 Taormina, Sicily
Arrival 10/18/2021 early morning
Departure 10/18/2021 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 19, 2021 Reggio di Calabria
Arrival 10/19/2021 early morning
Departure 10/19/2021 late afternoon
At the southern tip of the Italian boot, Reggio de Calabre 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 20, 2021 Agropoli
Arrival 10/20/2021 early morning
Departure 10/20/2021 early evening
Located on the Cilento Coast along the Tyrrhenian Sea, Agropoli is an Italian town located in the province of Salerno in Campania. You will be seduced by the beauty of its coastline, its pristine nature and its fascinating history dating back to Antiquity. The Apennines (from the Celtic word “pen” meaning rocky summit) form the backbone of the Italian Peninsula and serve as a majestic background to a landscape composed of small bays and coves. Listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, the magnificent beaches of Trentova Bay contribute to making this small town a very popular seaside resort.
October 21, 2021 Naples
Arrival 10/21/2021 early morning
Departure 10/21/2021 late evening
More Italian than Italy itself, Naples is the capital of the beautiful region of Campania, and is an unusual city to say the least. Its gulf, dominated by Vesuvius, is one of the world’s marvels. Built by the Greeks and then occupied by the Romans, the city has retained the memory of antiquity, as Castell dell’Ovo illustrates. But Naples has another side to it with its hustle and bustle, narrow streets, clothes hung out to dry at windows, Caravaggio paintings on the walls of a church, and incessant rumour in an sleepless city. This is a head-spinning city to visit and savour: don’t forget to eat a slice of pizza Margherita.
October 22, 2021 Gaeta
Arrival 10/22/2021 early morning
Departure 10/22/2021 early evening
Gaeta takes its name from the legend of the nanny of Aeneas. This illustrious relationship can be seen in the nobility of this old town, built on a peninsula, at the end of a headland. In Roman times, Gaeta was already a renowned seaside destination; it fell under Byzantine domination then became an autonomous duchy and an independent republic. The fortifications that surround this ancient fort remind us of this rich history, as does the cathedral bell tower, an elegant building of both Roman and Moor influence, decorated with ceramic in the style of bell-towers of Amalfi.
October 23, 2021 Civitavecchia (Rome)
Arrival 10/23/2021 early morning
Disembarkation 10/23/2021 at 07h00
Built on an Etruscan site, between the Tyrrhenian sea and the Monti della Tolfa, Civitavecchia respires the dolce vita. This very modern and easy going town combines art and history with panache. You can also visit superb historical sites like Fort Michelangelo or the Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi. Just 80 kilometres from Rome, the town is a beautiful first step to the Italian capital.
Le Jacques Cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier combines the desire for adventure with five-star travel. A modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye, the first ever multisensorial lounge, offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
Until 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
112 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Quintessential Collection
PONANT Quintessential Collection voyages are designed for travelers who want to engage with the world in order to understand it.
In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, these voyages include lectures and performances aboard ship by world class experts and musicians and one or two exceptional activities ashore that encourage guests to embrace the sights and sounds, tastes and smells of the local culture. They also offer pre- or post-cruise stay with excursions relevant to the theme. We believe that travel approached in this way has the power ato transform us and to make us better citizens of the world.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, 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, the stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or your shore visits, this expert will be there to share his precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TASTES OF MALTA (1 NIGHT)
(1 nuit)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a specially designed program.
Day 1 – Valletta, Malta
Arrive at Malta International Airport. You will be met at the exit of the Arrivals hall. Look for the PONANT sign or a sign with your name on it. Transfer from the airport to The Phoenicia Malta (or similar) and check in. Official check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and answer any questions you may have.
Join your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception this evening. An independent dinner is at your leisure.
Day 2 – Valletta | Embarkation
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After check-out, depart on a walking excursion of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital city located on a hilly peninsula between two natural harbors. Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens to enjoy panoramic views over the Grand Harbor. Proceed to the 16th-century St. John’s Co-Cathedral and view Carravaggio’s famous masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, during an inside visit. Walk to the Magisterial Palace, today serving as the office of the president of Malta. Here, visit the state rooms and the tapestry chamber.
Board your coach and drive to a local vineyard. At the Meridiana Winery, enjoy a wine tasting of some of the country’s most delicious wines. Proceed to a historic local restaurant for a lunch of traditional Maltese specialties. The chef will speak to you about Maltese cuisine and introduce the dishes that you will eat.
After lunch, reboard your coach and drive to the Hagar Qim Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple complex dates to 3600 BC and is in a beautiful location on a cliff overlooking the sea. After a guided visit, transfer to the ship for embarkation.
Your hotel:
The Phoenicia Malta, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is Malta’s most iconic hotel with a storied history spanning over 60 years. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel is situated in an ideal location just outside the walled city of Valletta and its 16th-century bastions. From the hotel’s front door, the historic wonders of Valletta, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, are all within easy walking distance. The hotel boasts 136 rooms and suites combining old-world elegance and a fresh style. Its modern conveniences ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay.
Your program includes:
- 1 night at The Phoenicia Malta (or similar), including breakfast.
- Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day.
- Transfer and luggage handling to the pier on embarkation day.
- Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1.
- Breakfast and lunch on Day 2.
- Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary.
- Local English-speaking guide.
- Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
- Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day
- Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
- It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 15 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.
- Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
- The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are largely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
- The duration of the visits is given as a guide only, and the order of the visits may change.
- This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
- Program is offered on a space available basis.
- Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
The Phoenicia Malta
The Mall
Floriana FRN1478
Malta
Telephone: +356.2122.5241
Duration and order of the visits may vary.
Total : $550
According to availability, price per passenger.