Deluxe Stateroom
30% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
The jewels of the Aegean
Antalya - Athens
Dates:
4/8/2025
to
4/16/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Sail the Greek and Turkish shores during an exceptional journey, an 9-day cruise aboard Le Lapérouse, during which you will fall under the spell of these island jewels and secular cities, featuring ancient ruins and splendid scenery, which people the Eastern Mediterranean.
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, visit the archaeological site of Ephesus from Kusadasi, discover the monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse where the last book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle,from Patmos, or admire the sumptuous archaeological sites, from the Temples of Zeus, Apollo and Athena to the Terrace of the Lions, from Delos. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab). The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From Antalya, a former Roman port with picturesque alleyways and fine Ottoman residences, Le Lapérouse will sail south for the Dodecanese archipelago. On the mythical island of Rhodes, let yourself be swept away by the charm of this medieval city with its gothic architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, the island of Patmos, known as “the Jerusalem of the Aegean Sea”, reveals itself to offer you a moment suspended between unique landscapes of white-sand beaches and rocky bays.
Le Lapérouse will leave Greece to reach Kusadasi in Turkey. An old fishing village with history going back 5,000 years, not far from the Ephesus site, the town is now one of the country’s most famous seaside resorts.
In the south-eastern Aegean Sea, the Cyclades archipelago invites you to enjoy the wild and appealing beauty of its islands. Delos, a veritable open-air museum, offers a unique testimony of the succession of different civilisations during the Aegean period. Puis, Paros, réputée pour son sublime marbre blanc offre un véritable concentré de beautés grecques, entre oliveraies et monuments anciens. Santorini, one of the pearls of the archipelago, awaits you for an enchanted interlude, unfurling the grandiose crater of its caldera.
You will then sail west for the charming Monemvasia. A romantic haven for the Athenians, this magnificent peninsula conserves treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture in the small vaulted streets of its fortified medieval village, which feature thousands of shades of ochre.
Further north, you will arrive in Nafplio, the departure point for discovering the Ancient Theatre ofEpidaurus and the Mycenae archaeological site, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Athens, the mythical city dominated by the Acropolis and its monuments, which form the most extraordinary architectural and artistic ensemble bequeathed to the world by Ancient Greece, will mark the end of this exceptional odyssey.
Ref : ER080425
Your itinerary
A cruise to discover the finest ancient sites of Greece, with one port of call in Turkey. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Napflion, the sacred island of Delos, the...
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Your trip in detail
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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 COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE LYRIAL
3/3/2025 to the 3/21/2025
L'AUSTRAL
2/28/2025 to the 3/15/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
*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
Highlights
- A cruise to discover the finest ancient sites of Greece, with one port of call in Turkey.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Napflion, the sacred island of Delos, the monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse in Patmos, the historical sites of Ephesus from Kusadasi, the Acropolis in Athens.
- 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.
- Discover the pearls of the Cyclades: Santorini, Delos, Paros and their ancient ruins, typical landscapes and beaches.
*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
April 8, 2025 - Antalya
Embarkation 4/8/2025 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 4/8/2025 at 6:00 PM
On the Turkish Mediterranean coast, discover the seaside resort of Antalya. While the city sports magnificent fine sandy beaches, it is also known for its significant historical heritage. Many vestiges bear witness to the importance of this former Roman port, such as Hadrian's Gate, built in the year 130 in honour of the visiting emperor. In the old town, it is possible to admire magnificent Ottoman houses with flowery gardens, as well as the broken minaret, built on the ruins of a former Byzantine church. The city’s surroundings also provide an opportunity to discover major archaeological sites, such as that of the ancient city of Aspendos, renowned for its impressive Roman theatre.
April 9, 2025 - Rhodes
Arrival 4/9/2025 early morning
Departure 4/9/2025 late afternoon
With its particularly agreeable climate, the island of Rhodes invites you to walk its pathways and discover its immaculate villages and sumptuous medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. At the centre of the island the mountains are covered in forest and on the western slopes we find vineyards and crops. Rhodes also owes much of its charm and its character to the Knights of St John who reigned over the island from 1310 to 1522 and built impressive defensive walls punctuated with majestic gateways. Do not miss this delightful island with its peaceful beaches and its large walkways, perpetuating the myth of the famous Colossus, the legendary statue that is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
April 10, 2025 - Patmos
Arrival 4/10/2025 early morning
Departure 4/10/2025 late afternoon
Patmos is one of the legendary must-see islands in the Dodecanese. This is where Saint John resided, presumed author of the last book in the Bible. The cave of the Apocalypse and the Saint John Monastery are dedicated to him. These sites, which are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are located at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer absolutely gorgeous swimming areas.
April 11, 2025 - Kusadasi
Arrival 4/11/2025 early morning
Departure 4/11/2025 mid afternoon
The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. You can bathe there in clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk, in the shade of palms. In the historical district, you can take a mosey down the narrow streets and explore the colourful shops in the bazaar. Close by, the Ephesus archaeological site in the hillsides provides an opportunity to discover the ruins of one of the most famous cities of Antiquity.
April 12, 2025 - Delos
Arrival 4/12/2025 early morning
Departure 4/12/2025 midday
This legendary Cyclades island of Delos stands just a few miles southwest of Mykonos. The ceremonial solemnity of this ancient holy sanctuary will not leave you indifferent. The sheer size and importance of this UNESCO World Heritage site which covers over half of the island is thrilling in itself. From the Stoa of Antigonos, the Terrace of the Lions, to the carved marble animal statues, you will make discovery after discovery, against a backdrop of the Aegean stretching to the horizon. The theatre steps on the hillside are a particularly good place from which to enjoy the expansive view.
April 12, 2025 - Paros
Arrival 4/12/2025 early afternoon
Departure 4/12/2025 evening
Famous for its white marble, the island of Paros is located in the Cyclades. Along the quays of Parikia, its main town, you’ll see Byzantine churches and neoclassical buildings. To make the most of the turquoise waters, you can stop over in Naoussa. This little fishing port is bounded by a very beautiful cove.
April 13, 2025 - Santorini
Arrival 4/13/2025 early morning
Departure 4/13/2025 evening
The spectacular volcanic island of Santorini stands out proud in the Cyclades. Its basalt cliffs offer particularly expansive views of the Aegean. To enjoy these views, you can head for the capital, Fira. Its floral belvederes of bougainvillea provide a bird’s-eye view of several thousand metres of coastline. Further away, the gorgeous village of Oia looks like a stairway of blue and white houses on the slopes of the volcano. In the south of the island, you will be able to visit the stunning ruins of Akrotiri, an ancient city destroyed by an eruption and covered with a thick layer of lava stone.
April 14, 2025 - Monemvasia
Arrival 4/14/2025 early morning
Departure 4/14/2025 late afternoon
The jewel of the southern Peloponnese, Monemvasia is the romantic refuge for Athenians. Given the poetic nickname of the “stone ship”, this majestic peninsula is home to an incredible fortified medieval village, lying at the foot of its abrupt cliffs, which seems to have been cast by the gods from the Aegean Sea. Contemplate the horizon from its ramparts, a veritable walkway defying the azure waters, and stroll through its vaulted narrow streets with their thousand shades of ochre. At the crossroads of western and eastern influences and the maritime routes of the continent, Crete and the Cyclades, Monemvasia has preserved in this magical decor the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
April 15, 2025 - Nafplion
Arrival 4/15/2025 early morning
Departure 4/15/2025 mid afternoon
The engaging town of Nafplion is staggered up green hillsides of the Argolic Gulf, to the east of the Peloponnese. Do not be surprised by its extremely varied cultural heritage. Some of the must-see visits are the ancient agora on the plateau of Akronafplia, Italianate arcades in Syntagma square as well as the baroque fortress of Palamidi on a hillside of the same name. At the top of the hill, views of the gulf and the surrounding mountains are simply awesome. If you want to chill out by the water’s edge, walk along the Arvanitia promenade to a beautiful creek in the shade of cedars and cypresses.
April 15, 2025 April 16, 2025 - Athens
Arrival 4/15/2025 late evening
Disembarkation 4/16/2025 at 8:00 AM
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
The Acropolis of Lindos
Overlooked by its acropolis and enjoying a charming setting, Lindos is one of Rhodes’ natural jewels and has great appeal thanks to its captivating natural environment and its ancient history.
The Acropolis of Lindos, which forms a rocky promontory that towers over the town, has been used since the 6th century BC as a citadel and place of worship successively by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, the Knights of St. John, and the Ottomans. It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Rhodes.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive amidst orange and lemon groves, prosperous vineyards, and fields of gnarled olive trees. You will discover Lindos through the rocky cliffs of the acropolis surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Spread out below you is the village of Lindos and its pretty whitewashed houses; the streets are paved with intricately patterned black and white pebbles collected from the sea.
As you begin your climb up the footpath to the summit, the first ruins you will see are the walls built by the crusaders in the early 14th century atop ancient fortifications. When you reach the top, you will pass through ramparts constructed by the Knights of St. John to defend against the Ottomans, then enter the acropolis complex. Here, making the most of stunning 360° views, you will discover the remains of the 4th-century Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and the imposing columns of the Hellenistic Stoa, as well as a Byzantine church and other ruins of the Knights' citadel.
Returning to the town, you will have some free time to browse the shops brimming with attractive souvenirs.
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This excursion involves up to two hours of walking. The approach to the acropolis is steep. You should be in good physical condition to participate and we recommend you protect yourself against the sun. We recommend you wear walking shoes.
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.
The city of the Knights Hospitaller
Discover the Medieval City of Rhodes during a guided walking tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable for its Gothic architecture, which coexists with mosques and public baths dating back to the Ottoman period.
Wander through the cobbled streets to the impressive Palace of the Grand Master, constructed in the 14th century, and admire the Greek and Turkish mosaics from the island of Kos. Following the palace visit, you will walk along the famous Street of the Knights of Rhodes, edged with old inns, each dedicated to one of the Order’s different “Tongues”. In fact, between 1309 and 1522, the Inns of Provence, Auvergne, France, Germany, Italy, England and Spain all shared power in the city, with each having its own establishment, recognisable by the coat of arms on the building’s façade. Following an old road, the straight line of this street with its austere buildings crosses through the maze of winding little streets that surrounds it.
You will now have some free time to have a drink and stroll around the streets and shops.
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This visit involves walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and bring sun cream.
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.
Patmos, island of the Revelation
The minuscule Greek island of Patmos, lost in the middle of the Dodecanese, has something mysterious about it. It was here, in the year 95, that John the Apostle, exiled on the island, had and recorded his vision of the apocalypse, leaving a lasting mark on this jagged piece of land. Centuries later, the fortified monastery devoted to the Apostle and the Cave of the Apocalypse still remains as enigmatic.
Sanctuaries, churches, convents… Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none are as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John, which tops the village of Chorá and its whitewashed walls. Founded in 1088, the monastery looks like a fortress, visible from miles around. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, has frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
The Cave of the Apocalypse is between Chorá and Skala. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist’s house – one can still see the place where he slept and the rock pulpit on which his disciple Prochorus wrote his dictation – and is now surrounded by a monastery as well as a theological school.
The last stop will be the three windmills nestling on Chorá hill, which will give you breathtaking views over the island and the sea as far as the eye can see.
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This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town; access to the monastery is on foot via paved streets. Over the entire excursion, you will have to go up and down around a hundred steps. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave.
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.
From Parikia to Naoussa
On Paros, the discreet neighbour of Mykonos and Santorini, the charm of the Cyclades can be seen in all its gentleness and timelessness. Between golden beaches and pine forests, discover the historic villages of Parikia, Naoussa and Lefkes, as well as the stunning Byzantine Panaghia Katapoliani basilica.
The Katapoliani church, also known as Ekatontapiliani church, was founded in the 4th century and is one of Greece’s most beautiful Paleo-Christian monuments. Located in the heart of Parikia, the basilica was nicknamed “the Church with the Hundred Doors” in the 7th century, as a nod to the splendour of the Temple of the Hundred Gates (Ekatonpylon) in ancient Thebes in Egypt.
A few kilometres from there, on the island’s heights, explore its former capital, Lefkes, with its labyrinth of little streets and whitewashed stairs overgrown with bougainvillea. You will discover the old wash houses, still used today by some inhabitants, the House of Literature, picturesque Ramnos street, its taverna and boutiques, as well as the superb views over the sea and Naxos in the background.
Then you will head for the north of the island and Naoussa, a fishing village, a perfect picture postcard of the Cyclades. The whitewashed houses here are decorated with blue doors and shutters, the octopus dry on washing lines while the small bars and tavernas have a trendy appearance. However, the real eye-catching site here is the Venetian castle, constructed in the 15th century by the Sommaripa family. Rising out of the sea, behind the port and its traditional boats, it has impressive views over the azure sea.
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This bus excursion involves some moderate walking on flat ground, with some steps up to the Panaghia Katapoliani basilica. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and sun protection. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be 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.
Villages, basilica and vineyards on Paros
With its hillside villages, its windmills, its vineyards, its charming little port and its Byzantine church, the island of Paros has what it takes to captivate visitors. Stroll the small streets, admire the buildings and visit a wine estate for a tasty concentration of the island.
You will take the island’s winding roads and reach the village of Lefkes, a white village built in an amphitheatre at the top of a hill that offers magnificent panoramic views over the surrounding area. The town hall, shaped out of the famous Paros marble, is particularly remarkable.
You will go to the Moraïtis wine estate, which has now seen four generations of winemakers. You will discover the production area and the wine cellar where the wine ages in oak casks, then in amphoras. The estate visit finishes with a wine tasting, accompanied by local snacks.
You will continue towards the port of Naoussa, considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades. Despite the development of tourism, the village has kept its authenticity, with its flowery whitewashed houses, it small churches and its white chapels surrounded by a maze of narrow cobbled streets.
Your last stop will be in Parikia, where you will visit the famous Panagia Katapoliani basilica, also known as Panagia Ekatontapiliani or “the Church with the Hundred Doors”. Founded in the 4th century and completed over the centuries, it is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in the Orthodox world and one of the most important Byzantine monuments in Greece.
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This excursion involves walking around two hours on flat but uneven surfaces, with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
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.
Santorini’s towns: Oia and Fira
Fall under the spell of the breathtaking panoramas to be found in the charming villages of Oia and Fira. Nestling on the Santorini caldera, they are renowned for their delightful whitewashed architecture.
First port of call: Oia. After passing through various villages perched above the Aegean Sea, admire the sumptuous scenery offered by the successive lava flows that shaped these panoramas over the centuries. Oia, a little gem posed on the cliffside, dominates the ancient caldera on the northwestern tip of the island. With its white houses squeezed against each other, the village has architecture that is characteristic of the Cyclades as well as sumptuous views.
In Fira, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which exhibits pieces discovered during excavations in Akrotiri - an ancient settlement of Santorini - including a gold ibex figurine as well as many frescoes. You will reach the port of Fira by cable car and embark on a tender to access your moored ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 2h30 of walking, with a few stairs. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion.
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.
Akrotiri site & Oia
There are two important treasures on the most famous, and perhaps the most spectacular, Greek island. First, the rare prehistoric site of Akrotiri and its city, which were buried under ashes during an eruption. Then, Oia, a gem of a village suspended above Santorini’s iconic caldera.
Nicknamed the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea”, the Akrotiri site is famous for its ruins dating back to the Neolithic age, i.e. 5,000 years before our era. Destroyed by a volcanic eruption and buried beneath the ashes, the city, probably one of the oldest known in the Mediterranean to this day, was rediscovered in 1967, during archaeological excavations that continue to attract researchers and scientists fascinated by the mysteries surrounding this site.
As you take the road to Oia, an immaculate and labyrinthine village perched on a cliff and plummeting into Greece’s most famous caldera, you will be able to admire the lava flows that have shaped the scenery. Then, once you reach this jewel of the Cyclades, amidst its typical architecture, you can take the measure of the forces that were at work here, opposite the crater forming the northwestern tip of the island.
Finally, you will arrive in Fira and make the most of its cable car to get to the port, with breathtaking views over the azure Mediterranean below.
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The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion. This excursion involves walking more than two and a half hours on cobbled streets and uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable non-slip walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. In addition to the extensive amount of walking on this tour, there is a 5 to 10-minute walk from the bus parking area in Oia and a lengthy walk from the bus stop to the cable car station in Fira.
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.
Monemvasia, the medieval town
Monemvasia, often referred as the “Gibraltar of Greece”, is undoubtedly unique with its fortified medieval town built on a reddish-brown rock and surrounded by the blue sea.
Board your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old stone built mansions, the picturesque lanes and the numerous Byzantine churches create an environment of superb beauty.
Monemvasia is split in two: the lower town and the upper town. Walking on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
You will admire the highlights of the medieval town during your walking tour before returning back to the pier and your awaiting ship.
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This excursion involves extensive walking on flat, uneven ground, cobblestones and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility or in a wheelchair.
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.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
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 Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance.
The Blue Eye, an underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Decks
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.
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
The Acropolis of Lindos
Overlooked by its acropolis and enjoying a charming setting, Lindos is one of Rhodes’ natural jewels and has great appeal thanks to its captivating natural environment and its ancient history.
The Acropolis of Lindos, which forms a rocky promontory that towers over the town, has been used since the 6th century BC as a citadel and place of worship successively by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, the Knights of St. John, and the Ottomans. It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Rhodes.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive amidst orange and lemon groves, prosperous vineyards, and fields of gnarled olive trees. You will discover Lindos through the rocky cliffs of the acropolis surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Spread out below you is the village of Lindos and its pretty whitewashed houses; the streets are paved with intricately patterned black and white pebbles collected from the sea.
As you begin your climb up the footpath to the summit, the first ruins you will see are the walls built by the crusaders in the early 14th century atop ancient fortifications. When you reach the top, you will pass through ramparts constructed by the Knights of St. John to defend against the Ottomans, then enter the acropolis complex. Here, making the most of stunning 360° views, you will discover the remains of the 4th-century Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and the imposing columns of the Hellenistic Stoa, as well as a Byzantine church and other ruins of the Knights' citadel.
Returning to the town, you will have some free time to browse the shops brimming with attractive souvenirs.
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This excursion involves up to two hours of walking. The approach to the acropolis is steep. You should be in good physical condition to participate and we recommend you protect yourself against the sun. We recommend you wear walking shoes.
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.
The city of the Knights Hospitaller
Discover the Medieval City of Rhodes during a guided walking tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable for its Gothic architecture, which coexists with mosques and public baths dating back to the Ottoman period.
Wander through the cobbled streets to the impressive Palace of the Grand Master, constructed in the 14th century, and admire the Greek and Turkish mosaics from the island of Kos. Following the palace visit, you will walk along the famous Street of the Knights of Rhodes, edged with old inns, each dedicated to one of the Order’s different “Tongues”. In fact, between 1309 and 1522, the Inns of Provence, Auvergne, France, Germany, Italy, England and Spain all shared power in the city, with each having its own establishment, recognisable by the coat of arms on the building’s façade. Following an old road, the straight line of this street with its austere buildings crosses through the maze of winding little streets that surrounds it.
You will now have some free time to have a drink and stroll around the streets and shops.
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This visit involves walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and bring sun cream.
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.
Patmos, island of the Revelation
The minuscule Greek island of Patmos, lost in the middle of the Dodecanese, has something mysterious about it. It was here, in the year 95, that John the Apostle, exiled on the island, had and recorded his vision of the apocalypse, leaving a lasting mark on this jagged piece of land. Centuries later, the fortified monastery devoted to the Apostle and the Cave of the Apocalypse still remains as enigmatic.
Sanctuaries, churches, convents… Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none are as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John, which tops the village of Chorá and its whitewashed walls. Founded in 1088, the monastery looks like a fortress, visible from miles around. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, has frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
The Cave of the Apocalypse is between Chorá and Skala. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist’s house – one can still see the place where he slept and the rock pulpit on which his disciple Prochorus wrote his dictation – and is now surrounded by a monastery as well as a theological school.
The last stop will be the three windmills nestling on Chorá hill, which will give you breathtaking views over the island and the sea as far as the eye can see.
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This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town; access to the monastery is on foot via paved streets. Over the entire excursion, you will have to go up and down around a hundred steps. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave.
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.
From Parikia to Naoussa
On Paros, the discreet neighbour of Mykonos and Santorini, the charm of the Cyclades can be seen in all its gentleness and timelessness. Between golden beaches and pine forests, discover the historic villages of Parikia, Naoussa and Lefkes, as well as the stunning Byzantine Panaghia Katapoliani basilica.
The Katapoliani church, also known as Ekatontapiliani church, was founded in the 4th century and is one of Greece’s most beautiful Paleo-Christian monuments. Located in the heart of Parikia, the basilica was nicknamed “the Church with the Hundred Doors” in the 7th century, as a nod to the splendour of the Temple of the Hundred Gates (Ekatonpylon) in ancient Thebes in Egypt.
A few kilometres from there, on the island’s heights, explore its former capital, Lefkes, with its labyrinth of little streets and whitewashed stairs overgrown with bougainvillea. You will discover the old wash houses, still used today by some inhabitants, the House of Literature, picturesque Ramnos street, its taverna and boutiques, as well as the superb views over the sea and Naxos in the background.
Then you will head for the north of the island and Naoussa, a fishing village, a perfect picture postcard of the Cyclades. The whitewashed houses here are decorated with blue doors and shutters, the octopus dry on washing lines while the small bars and tavernas have a trendy appearance. However, the real eye-catching site here is the Venetian castle, constructed in the 15th century by the Sommaripa family. Rising out of the sea, behind the port and its traditional boats, it has impressive views over the azure sea.
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This bus excursion involves some moderate walking on flat ground, with some steps up to the Panaghia Katapoliani basilica. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and sun protection. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be 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.
Villages, basilica and vineyards on Paros
With its hillside villages, its windmills, its vineyards, its charming little port and its Byzantine church, the island of Paros has what it takes to captivate visitors. Stroll the small streets, admire the buildings and visit a wine estate for a tasty concentration of the island.
You will take the island’s winding roads and reach the village of Lefkes, a white village built in an amphitheatre at the top of a hill that offers magnificent panoramic views over the surrounding area. The town hall, shaped out of the famous Paros marble, is particularly remarkable.
You will go to the Moraïtis wine estate, which has now seen four generations of winemakers. You will discover the production area and the wine cellar where the wine ages in oak casks, then in amphoras. The estate visit finishes with a wine tasting, accompanied by local snacks.
You will continue towards the port of Naoussa, considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades. Despite the development of tourism, the village has kept its authenticity, with its flowery whitewashed houses, it small churches and its white chapels surrounded by a maze of narrow cobbled streets.
Your last stop will be in Parikia, where you will visit the famous Panagia Katapoliani basilica, also known as Panagia Ekatontapiliani or “the Church with the Hundred Doors”. Founded in the 4th century and completed over the centuries, it is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in the Orthodox world and one of the most important Byzantine monuments in Greece.
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This excursion involves walking around two hours on flat but uneven surfaces, with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
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.
Santorini’s towns: Oia and Fira
Fall under the spell of the breathtaking panoramas to be found in the charming villages of Oia and Fira. Nestling on the Santorini caldera, they are renowned for their delightful whitewashed architecture.
First port of call: Oia. After passing through various villages perched above the Aegean Sea, admire the sumptuous scenery offered by the successive lava flows that shaped these panoramas over the centuries. Oia, a little gem posed on the cliffside, dominates the ancient caldera on the northwestern tip of the island. With its white houses squeezed against each other, the village has architecture that is characteristic of the Cyclades as well as sumptuous views.
In Fira, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which exhibits pieces discovered during excavations in Akrotiri - an ancient settlement of Santorini - including a gold ibex figurine as well as many frescoes. You will reach the port of Fira by cable car and embark on a tender to access your moored ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 2h30 of walking, with a few stairs. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion.
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.
Akrotiri site & Oia
There are two important treasures on the most famous, and perhaps the most spectacular, Greek island. First, the rare prehistoric site of Akrotiri and its city, which were buried under ashes during an eruption. Then, Oia, a gem of a village suspended above Santorini’s iconic caldera.
Nicknamed the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea”, the Akrotiri site is famous for its ruins dating back to the Neolithic age, i.e. 5,000 years before our era. Destroyed by a volcanic eruption and buried beneath the ashes, the city, probably one of the oldest known in the Mediterranean to this day, was rediscovered in 1967, during archaeological excavations that continue to attract researchers and scientists fascinated by the mysteries surrounding this site.
As you take the road to Oia, an immaculate and labyrinthine village perched on a cliff and plummeting into Greece’s most famous caldera, you will be able to admire the lava flows that have shaped the scenery. Then, once you reach this jewel of the Cyclades, amidst its typical architecture, you can take the measure of the forces that were at work here, opposite the crater forming the northwestern tip of the island.
Finally, you will arrive in Fira and make the most of its cable car to get to the port, with breathtaking views over the azure Mediterranean below.
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The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion. This excursion involves walking more than two and a half hours on cobbled streets and uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable non-slip walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. In addition to the extensive amount of walking on this tour, there is a 5 to 10-minute walk from the bus parking area in Oia and a lengthy walk from the bus stop to the cable car station in Fira.
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.
Monemvasia, the medieval town
Monemvasia, often referred as the “Gibraltar of Greece”, is undoubtedly unique with its fortified medieval town built on a reddish-brown rock and surrounded by the blue sea.
Board your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old stone built mansions, the picturesque lanes and the numerous Byzantine churches create an environment of superb beauty.
Monemvasia is split in two: the lower town and the upper town. Walking on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
You will admire the highlights of the medieval town during your walking tour before returning back to the pier and your awaiting ship.
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This excursion involves extensive walking on flat, uneven ground, cobblestones and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility or in a wheelchair.
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.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
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.