Le Ponant will leave Valletta, for a 9-day cruise on seas that are brimming with history. After calling at beautiful Cataniawhose Late Baroque style monuments spread to the foot of Mount Etna, set sail for Syracuse, one of the most prestigious Sicilian cities, whose monuments are listed as a Unesco World heritage. You will then leave the Sicilian coast to reach the town of Gytheio in Greece. From there, you will be able to visit the Byzantine town of Mystras, in the heart of a beautiful landscape. Then head to the charming town of Nafplion, the departure point for visiting the famous Epidaurus Theatre and the Mycenae site, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO.
Highlights
Enjoy a cruise from Italy to Greece to discover exceptional archaeological sites
Visit Syracuse, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover the baroque architecture of Catania
Visit Saint Agatha Cathedral with its apses made of lava stones
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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. Among the city’s countless monuments, you can visit Saint-John's cathedral, the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes, not to mention the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.
Sicily’s second city, Catania is dominated by the majestic silhouette of Mount Etna. Nourishing and devastating at the same time, this giant crowned with smoke rings brought about the destruction of the city at the end of the 17th century. Catania was then rebuilt in the late Baroque style, and the many monuments of this epoch have earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The baroque churches of the harmonious Via dei Crociferi perfectly illustrate the riches of this architectural heritage. During your stop, be sure to visit Saint Agatha Cathedral with its apses made of lava stones, and its square decorated with a fountain of the Elephant, the animal which allegedly has the power to calm the fury of Mount Etna.
Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilizations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colors and flavors.
During your day at sea on board Le Ponant, make the most of your free time and the comfort of your ship for a moment of rest or conviviality. If the weather is right, let yourself be tempted by a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to do some shopping in the boutique and share the highlights of your cruise with the other passengers. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observer marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining relaxation, sharing and the pleasure of sailing on a yacht.
Located in the south of the Peloponnese, on the Mani Peninsula, Gytheio was the main port and naval base of ancient Sparta, located around fifty kilometers inland. In Roman times, the port experienced significant expansion thanks to trading in imperial dye; in fact, the region had an abundance of murex, the rock snails from which this dye, loved by the Romans, was extracted. The town is nestled against Mount Koumaros and dominated by a citadel. Take a stroll and fall under the charm of the calm that reigns over the stairways bordered by small neoclassic houses with steps overrun with wildflowers.
The engaging town of Nafplion is staggered up green hillsides of the Argolic Gulf, to the east of the Peloponnese. Don’t be surprised by its extremely varied cultural heritage. For instance, you’ll see 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.
Day 9: Athens, Greece | Disembark
1 Breakfast
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 colorful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. Don’t miss anything of the city’s cultural past. Pay a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, or the Cycladic Art Museum.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$7,990
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
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Mistral Stateroom
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Mistral Prestige Stateroom
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Alizé Stateroom with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Mistral Junior Suite
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Prestige Alizé stateroom with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Mistral Prestige Suite
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Alizé Privilège Suite with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Grand Privilège Alizé Suite with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
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Owner's Suite with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners
8 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Unlimited Wifi
Onboard Entertainment
Gratuities to Onboard Crew
“Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
24h Room Service (special selection)
Butler service in every suite
Beginning this 2024/2025 winter season, one excursion per person, per port of call is included.
Port Fees and taxes
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Visa Fees
Scuba Diving
Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
Luggage Handling
Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions
CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses
Items from the boutique
Premium spirits/cocktails with more elaborate ingredients and high-end wines will have an additional charge
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Jane was excellent. She was quick to always respond . The reason I am taking this cruise is because of the costs she presented . Hopefully they won’t change . Lois Bailey
Lois Bailey
3 months ago
Tilly has been quickly responsive to my texts and emails.
Paula Thompson
3 months ago
I love working with the travel coordinators as they are helpful, friendly, and provide the information with the committed timeframe.
Mary Klaus
5 months ago
I selected Adventure Travel as I was not satisfied with the responsiveness of the agent for the cruise I was trying to book and it had good recommendations. So far, I am quite happy with my agent, Betty, very responsive and accommodating.
charles
5 months ago
Amazing. Incredible. Professional. Well done.
Wes Friedman
1 month ago
Jane was excellent. She was quick to always respond . The reason I am taking this cruise is because of the costs she presented . Hopefully they won’t change . Lois Bailey
Lois Bailey
3 months ago
Tilly has been quickly responsive to my texts and emails.
Paula Thompson
3 months ago
I love working with the travel coordinators as they are helpful, friendly, and provide the information with the committed timeframe.
Mary Klaus
5 months ago
I selected Adventure Travel as I was not satisfied with the responsiveness of the agent for the cruise I was trying to book and it had good recommendations. So far, I am quite happy with my agent, Betty, very responsive and accommodating.
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