Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
From Malta to the Adriatic coast
Valletta - Venice
Dates:
8/13/2025
to
8/21/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
This cruise, in partnership with the Maud Fontenoy Foundation, will cultivate the art of peaceful travel as well as a family spirit, thanks to its customised activities on board and on shore for youngsters*, with the Kid Explorers Club.
Set sail to discover the cultural and artistic jewels of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas with PONANT. During this 9-day cruise, Le Bougainville will take you to Greece, Montenegro, Croatia and Italy.
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, admire the heritage treasures of Split, discover the medieval vestiges of Dubrovnik, or set off from Taormina to climb the mythical Mount Etna.The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
Your ship will leave Valletta, the capital of Malta and former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta and set sail towards Sicily. In Taormina, the streets will lead you to the impressive ancient theatre, where the quality of the acoustics is exceptional. And as a constant backdrop: the majestic Mount Etna!
Next, you will visit the stunning Puglia region in Italy when the ship calls at Otranto. Do not miss a visit to Lecce: Its lavish baroque monuments have earned it the nickname “Florence of the South of Italy”.
Experience a unique moment in Montenegro when your ship calls at Tivat, a town facing the mountains of the Bay of Kotor. In this city founded in the 14th century by the Venetians and the Austro-Hungarians, you will discover the authenticity of the old town or admire the magnificent beaches as you wander around.
Facing it is Hvar, the best known and most attractive island in the Adriatic. In Stari Grad, echoes of the past abound. Founded by the Greeks 2,400 years ago, its plain is now listed with UNESCO for having retained its original agricultural landscape of vineyards and olive groves.
You will sail along the coast to reach the mythical city of Dubrovnik. In the aptly named “Pearl of the Adriatic”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be inspired by its millennia-old history, fascinated by its limestone cliffs sculpted by the wind and marvel at the heritage of its old town.
Renowned as the most beautiful medieval town in Dalmatia, the city of Trogir, founded by the Greeks is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fall under the spell of the beauty of its monuments, such as the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, a masterpiece of Romanesque arts and one of the most beautiful in Croatia.
To the north of Dalmatia, the charming fishing village of Primosten unfolds before you, with its pretty traditional stone houses and its architectural heritage influenced by the Venetian Republic. It is the gateway to the magnificent Krka Waterfalls and you will fall in love with its authenticity and exceptional environment.
The smallest island in the Kvarner archipelago, Rab captivates visitors with its pristine forests and wild coves, but also its powerful medieval past, evidenced by its military fortifications built in the 4th century BCE.
As a grand finale, your voyage will draw an end in Venice the Serenissima and its lagoon. Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal and the palaces along the canals will be your last stops on an unforgettable cruise.
*for children aged 4 to 13 years old
Ref : EG130825
Your itinerary
Kid Explorers Club in partnership with MAUD FONTENOY FOUNDATION. An amazing cruise through the cultural treasures of four countries: Malta, Montenegro, Croatia and Italy. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the...
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Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
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 COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
11/5/2025 to the 11/23/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
12/3/2025 to the 12/13/2025
*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
- Diptyque 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)
- Two 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
Kid Explorers
During your cruise PONANT offers an activity programme for children aged 4 to 13 years on all our ships, and from 6 to 13 years on board Le Commandant Charcot.
Every day a team of activity leaders organises creative activities (crafts, painting, etc.), fun educational workshops, board games, introduction to meditation sessions and more, as well as activities specific to the cruise itinerary and number of participants.
There are also activities ashore to prolong the experience for your Kid Explorers such as walks and treasure hunts.
The activity programme is available every day.(The precise times will be provided by animators).To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to fit in with your cruise programme. For more information, contact the team organising the activities.
Activity schedules are posted daily in the logbook.
Every child receives a welcome kit with gifts enclosed.
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Activities will depend on the number and age of the children who register and the weather conditions.
Parents or guardians must read the ‘General information on the PONANT Kid Explorers Club’ and sign a form authorising the Kid Explorers Club to look after their child on board and for outings ashore.
Maud Fontenoy Foundation
Since 2008, the Maud Fontenoy Foundation has been operating in France and internationally to protect our oceans. We organise educational activities focused on the environment for the younger generation and general public, with support from scientific partners and the French Ministry of National Education. The latter has made us responsible for its Sea Education programme and relaunch of the Sea Classes initiative. Our aim is both ecological and social: to protect the ocean and save people. We start from a strong principle that protecting the environment, particularly the ocean, is a humanitarian issue that affects all mankind, without exception. For us, the oceans are a powerful force, a potential for the future. Every year, 700,000 children benefit from our programmes.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
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Kid Explorers Club in partnership with MAUD FONTENOY FOUNDATION.
- An amazing cruise through the cultural treasures of four countries: Malta, Montenegro, Croatia and Italy.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the lagoon of Venice (boarding port), the old towns of Dubrovnik and Trogir, the plain of Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, the historic cenrter of Valletta (disembarkation port).
- 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.
- A stop in Tivat, in Montenegro, boasting rich heritage and captivating nature.
- From Otranto, the possibility of visiting Lecce, “the Florence of southern Italy”.
*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
August 13, 2025 - Valletta
Embarkation 8/13/2025 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 8/13/2025 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.
August 14, 2025 - Taormina, Sicily
Arrival 8/14/2025 early morning
Departure 8/14/2025 late afternoon
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.
August 15, 2025 - Otranto
Arrival 8/15/2025 midday
Departure 8/15/2025 early evening
Located in the Apulia region, Otrante is the easternmost transalpine town. Behind its medieval ramparts, you will taste the sweetlife of Salento, the “heel on Italy’s boot”. Inhabited since Antiquity, Otrante has today become a very pleasant seaside town. Yet its history is still visible as you meander through the little streets of its old centre. With its magnificent 12th century ornamental mosaic tiling, the Cathedral is one of its most beautiful treasures. During a stroll along the ramparts, you can sit and relax at a café terrace.
August 16, 2025 - Tivat
Arrival 8/16/2025 early morning
Departure 8/16/2025 early evening
Much of Tivat’s elegance comes from the beauty of its marina, Porto Montenegro, which attracts many influential personalities. The port’s promenade, emphasised by its line of palm trees facing the mountains of the Bay of Kotor, really is a setting with unique charm. Built in the 14th century, the town was successively governed by the Venetians and the Austro-Hungarians before the creation of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia following the First World War. Today, Montenegro's most prosperous city welcomes visitors, in particular to visit its old town or take a walk along its magnificent beaches.
August 17, 2025 - Stari Grad, Hvar Island
Arrival 8/17/2025 early morning
Departure 8/17/2025 evening
You will sail towards the popular island of Hvar, for a day in Stari Grad, an intimate port of call that is off the beaten track. Let your feelings guide you and discover this pretty city located at the end of a fertile plain, planted with vines and olive groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The organisation of its parcels, marked out by dry stone walls that punctuate the landscape, goes back to ancient times. Wander around the small streets at your leisure, discovering the town’s pretty boutiques and gourmet restaurants.
August 18, 2025 - Dubrovnik
Arrival 8/18/2025 early morning
Departure 8/18/2025 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.
August 19, 2025 - Trogir
Arrival 8/19/2025 early morning
Departure 8/19/2025 late morning
Built onan island linked to the Dalmatian coast, the picturesque city of Trogir dates from Antiquity. You will certainly be won over by its colourful streets and pleasantly surprised by their Greco-Roman plan, affording it UNESCO World Heritage status. Today, the former cardo maximus is the historical centre’s main street. You can mosey at your leisure in the fashion shops, art galleries and cake shops. Don’t miss the three naves in the stunning Saint Lawrence Cathedral. From the top of its keep, the Kamerlengo fortress provides a spectacular view of the old town and coastline.
August 19, 2025 - Primosten
Arrival 8/19/2025 early afternoon
Departure 8/19/2025 evening
Located south of Sibenik, Primosten is a picturesque village on the Dalmatian Coast, whose charm is distilled, via its narrow streets, through pretty stone houses and an architectural heritage influenced by the Venetian Republic. Built on a rocky peninsula, the historic city was connected to land by a mobile bridge from which it earned its name in the 16th century: in Croatian, primostiti means “to bridge”. The high point of the village, the Church of St. George watches over the stunning bay enveloped in crystal-clear waters while, to the north of the peninsula, the charming beach of Raduca reveals itself between the skies and the pine forest. Further on, the vines of the renowned babić varietal, protected from erosion by low stone walls, complete this idyllic setting.
August 20, 2025 - Rab
Arrival 8/20/2025 early morning
Departure 8/20/2025 mid afternoon
We have no doubt that the authenticity of this little island in Kvarner bay will charm you beyond belief. Dating from Adriatic Antiquity, its name means “wooded lands” in reference to the pinewoods, cypresses and cork oaks surrounding the main town. This town is called Rab, like the island. Here, you will see architecture of Venetian influence, inherited from the Middle Ages, illustrated by the bell-tower. Below, the ramparts provide views embracing the entire coastline, punctuated by deserted creeks.
August 21, 2025 - Venice
Arrival 8/21/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 8/21/2025 at 7:00 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.
Taormina & Greek Theatre
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a 30-minute drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You will start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You will then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
After your visit, you will enjoy a refreshment at a local bar and some free time.
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As this excursion involves a walk of around 1.5 miles (2 km) on rough terrain with several stairways, we advise you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required when visiting religious monuments, with knees and shoulders covered.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ascent of Mount Etna
Leave the landing pier by coach for the drive to Rifugio Sapienza, about 6,000 ft above sea level, on Mount Etna.
Mt. Etna is Europe’s largest active volcano, the slopes soar up to over 9,800 ft and the flanks are covered with scores of cones and craters. From there you will be able to gaze out across the Catania Gulf and view the woods, orchids and vineyards from the vantage point. But, of course, the major attractions are the crater and the remnants of the awe-inspiring streams of lava.
From there and with the assistance of a professional alpine guide, you will continue by cable car to 7,500 ft and then by special 4x4 minibuses to reach the basis of the main crater at about 8,800 ft above sea level. Up there and still accompanied with your guide, you will be able to go nearer to see last lava flows.
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Since this excursion involves walking at high altitude (9,800 ft – 2 900 m), participants should be in excellent physical condition. Bring a sweater or a jacket as it can be very chilly and windy, and wear sturdy walking shoes. A supplement of €10 per person will be applied if less than 10 persons want to realize the tour. This tour is conducted by an English-speaking photographer-guide. This tour is limited to 80 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Lecce - Florence of southern Italy
The city of Lecce has earned itself various epithets thanks to its beauty and its historical and architectural treasures: in fact, it is usually referred to as “the Florence of Southern Italy” or “open-air museum” for the abundance of churches and noble palaces, made more elegant and refined by the unique and sumptuous decorations realized with the “leccese stone”, a particular stone whose colour gets the same nuance as honey under the rays of the sun.
Set in the very heart of the Salento region, called “the Heel of Italy’s boot”, Lecce dates back to Roman times: in fact, you can still admire in Piazza St. Oronzo the Roman Amphitheatre (from outside) which dates back to the second century A.D. and could hold up to 20,000 spectators. In it gladiators used to face and fight against wild animals.
From Otranto, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Lecce where your walking tour of the old town will start. Walk the centre of town with your guide to discover a remarkable architectural style known as the “Barocco Leccese”. From the 16th to the 18th century, Lecce knew a period of great splendour during which it was embellished with Rococo’ and Baroque Monuments. The local finely grained limestone was particularly easy to work, making easy the creation of a very decorative style, with delicate details, which you will recognize immediately.
During the tour you will visit Santa Croce Basilica (only outside visit), which is sumptuously decorated, without being overbearing: close to it you can admire the impressive façade of the Governor’s Palace (the former monastery of the Celestine monks). Your tour cannot end without a visit of what is considered one of the finest squares in Southern Italy: Piazza Duomo, where the Cathedral as well as the Archbishop’s Palace are located. Following your visits, you will enjoy a nice local break tasting Apulian wine and local delicacies.
Some free time will allow you to wander at leisure for shopping before returning to Otranto and your ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1.3 miles (2 km) of walking, mainly over uneven and cobblestone streets. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The inside visit of the Basilica is not permitted on Sundays due to religious services. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Tasting is included in your tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Pizzica dance, Apulian folkloric show
The pizzica belongs to the large family of traditional dances known as tarantella, and was a popular dance in Puglia and Basilicata until the 1970s.
As well as being performed at festive occasions by various family groups or local communities, the pizzica also accompanied the ritual of tarentism (therapeutic treatments to cure the venom of the tarantula) in the Salento area. It was performed by orchestras made up of various instruments, with the tambourine and violin standing out for their rhythmic and melodic characteristics.
Today, you'll be treated to a performance by three musicians and one dancer, dressed in traditional costumes. Let yourself be carried away by this tradition and admire their art.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
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.
Kid Explorers
Welcome to all our young explorers! Thanks to the Kid Explorers Club children aged 4 on all our ships, and children aged 8 on board Le Commandant Charcotland up can take advantage of a wide variety of activities orchestrated by a team of activity leaders: creative activities, board games, DVD evenings, finding out what the crew do, or supervised outings and walks ashore for the 4+ age group. Helping children to learn about the oceans and the need to protect them is at the heart of our approach. So why not savour the magic of your destination in peace and quiet knowing your child is busy with an activity programme, specially designed for them and posted each day in the daily program.
Christmas offer
Offer valid from November 25, 2024, to January 3, 2025, providing an additional 10% discount on a selection of cruises. This non-retroactive offer is subject to availability and cannot be combined with Flight Credit, Free Single Supplement, Onboard Sale, Webinar, or Ponant event offers. The price displayed online on the product page does not include the additional discount. The discount is applied only to bookings made online by entering the "XMAS24" privilege code or by phone with a Travel Consultant or through your usual travel agency.
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
VISIT OF MDINA AND PALAZZO PARISIO
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between airport and embarkation port.
Valletta
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
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.
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.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
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Transfers, and visits as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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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 : $260
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.VISIT OF MDINA, GOURMET LUNCH AND WINE TASTING (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Valletta
Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to your hotel The Phoenica 5*.
Check-in in your room.
The end of the day and dinner are at leisure.
Day 2 – Valletta
Set off from your hotel with a local guide and start your day by visiting Mdina. Take a stroll through the Silent City’s narrow streets and visit the Mdina cathedral and fortifications. Mdina, Malta’s Old Capital, was used as a filming location for the movie Black Eagle, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, and for the Game of Thrones series. With its extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city.
You will then proceed to a local boutique winery, where wine is produced on an estate comprising four hectares of terraced vineyards. It was built with weathered limestone blocks that perfectly blend old-world charm with practical, modern architectural touches. About 15,000 vines are planted on this estate, along with around 200 olive trees plus fig trees, carob trees, and other indigenous Maltese flora. After the visit, you will have the opportunity to taste three fine wines.
This will be followed by a fine meal at a local gourmet restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the port in time for embarkation onboard your ship.
Your hotel:
The luxurious Phoenicia Hotel 5* dates back to 1935. Surrounded by seven acres of gardens, it is ideally located next to the Triton Fountain in Valletta's City Gate Square, just outside the ancient city walls. The rooms are spacious and elegant with modern furnishings. You have a choice of three restaurants, serving a range of Maltese and Mediterranean food. The pool bar and restaurant offer a resort-style setting overlooking Grand Harbour. The hotel is also equipped with a gym and spa. Wi-Fi is available to all guests, throughout the hotel.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation at the Phoenicia Hotel 5* (or similar) in Executive room, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverages package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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Local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Lunch and dinner of day 1.
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Tips for the guide and the driver.
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Personal expenses
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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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.
Contact of your hotel:
Phoenicia Hotel
The Mall Floriana
FRN 1478, MALTA
Telephone number: +356 2122 5241
Duration 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.
Total : $890
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Taormina & Greek Theatre
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a 30-minute drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You will start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You will then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
After your visit, you will enjoy a refreshment at a local bar and some free time.
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As this excursion involves a walk of around 1.5 miles (2 km) on rough terrain with several stairways, we advise you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required when visiting religious monuments, with knees and shoulders covered.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ascent of Mount Etna
Leave the landing pier by coach for the drive to Rifugio Sapienza, about 6,000 ft above sea level, on Mount Etna.
Mt. Etna is Europe’s largest active volcano, the slopes soar up to over 9,800 ft and the flanks are covered with scores of cones and craters. From there you will be able to gaze out across the Catania Gulf and view the woods, orchids and vineyards from the vantage point. But, of course, the major attractions are the crater and the remnants of the awe-inspiring streams of lava.
From there and with the assistance of a professional alpine guide, you will continue by cable car to 7,500 ft and then by special 4x4 minibuses to reach the basis of the main crater at about 8,800 ft above sea level. Up there and still accompanied with your guide, you will be able to go nearer to see last lava flows.
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Since this excursion involves walking at high altitude (9,800 ft – 2 900 m), participants should be in excellent physical condition. Bring a sweater or a jacket as it can be very chilly and windy, and wear sturdy walking shoes. A supplement of €10 per person will be applied if less than 10 persons want to realize the tour. This tour is conducted by an English-speaking photographer-guide. This tour is limited to 80 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Lecce - Florence of southern Italy
The city of Lecce has earned itself various epithets thanks to its beauty and its historical and architectural treasures: in fact, it is usually referred to as “the Florence of Southern Italy” or “open-air museum” for the abundance of churches and noble palaces, made more elegant and refined by the unique and sumptuous decorations realized with the “leccese stone”, a particular stone whose colour gets the same nuance as honey under the rays of the sun.
Set in the very heart of the Salento region, called “the Heel of Italy’s boot”, Lecce dates back to Roman times: in fact, you can still admire in Piazza St. Oronzo the Roman Amphitheatre (from outside) which dates back to the second century A.D. and could hold up to 20,000 spectators. In it gladiators used to face and fight against wild animals.
From Otranto, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Lecce where your walking tour of the old town will start. Walk the centre of town with your guide to discover a remarkable architectural style known as the “Barocco Leccese”. From the 16th to the 18th century, Lecce knew a period of great splendour during which it was embellished with Rococo’ and Baroque Monuments. The local finely grained limestone was particularly easy to work, making easy the creation of a very decorative style, with delicate details, which you will recognize immediately.
During the tour you will visit Santa Croce Basilica (only outside visit), which is sumptuously decorated, without being overbearing: close to it you can admire the impressive façade of the Governor’s Palace (the former monastery of the Celestine monks). Your tour cannot end without a visit of what is considered one of the finest squares in Southern Italy: Piazza Duomo, where the Cathedral as well as the Archbishop’s Palace are located. Following your visits, you will enjoy a nice local break tasting Apulian wine and local delicacies.
Some free time will allow you to wander at leisure for shopping before returning to Otranto and your ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1.3 miles (2 km) of walking, mainly over uneven and cobblestone streets. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The inside visit of the Basilica is not permitted on Sundays due to religious services. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Tasting is included in your tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Pizzica dance, Apulian folkloric show
The pizzica belongs to the large family of traditional dances known as tarantella, and was a popular dance in Puglia and Basilicata until the 1970s.
As well as being performed at festive occasions by various family groups or local communities, the pizzica also accompanied the ritual of tarentism (therapeutic treatments to cure the venom of the tarantula) in the Salento area. It was performed by orchestras made up of various instruments, with the tambourine and violin standing out for their rhythmic and melodic characteristics.
Today, you'll be treated to a performance by three musicians and one dancer, dressed in traditional costumes. Let yourself be carried away by this tradition and admire their art.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
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:
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Transfers by coach.
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Services of a local English-speaking assistant.
Your programme does not include:
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Personal expenses.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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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 : $80
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.