Have questions? We're here.
Marvel at the ancient windmills of Crete

Ancient civilizations of the Eastern Mediterranean

Example 11 Day Cruise aboard Le Bougainville
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Mediterranean trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Discover the incredible stories and remarkable ruins of ancient civilizations on this 11-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville. Board your ship in Aqaba, Jordan, and set sail across the Red Sea. Make stops at the sun-drenched beaches and historic cities of Eilat, Israel, and Ain Sukhna, Egypt, as your vessel travels toward the Suez Canal to reach the eastern Mediterranean. Walk the pathways of the ancients in Rhodes, Greece; wander through colorful markets in Kusadasi, Turkey; and tour the legendary palace of Knossos in Crete, Greece. Your journey concludes in beautiful Valletta, Malta, an entire city of UNESCO World Heritage sites and architectural details showcasing its long, diverse history. 
Sunlight over the Aqaba skylineEnjoy the calm waters of the Red SeaVisit the beautiful Greek island of CreteExplore beautiful coastal towns in GreeceMarvel at the ancient windmills of Crete
Highlights
  • Relax on the sun-drenched beaches of the Red Sea
  • Follow in the footsteps of ancient civilizations on Greek islands
  • Wander through the colorful markets and narrow streets of Kusadasi, Turkey
  • Visit palaces, temples, and ruins to see architecture from ancient ages
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Aqaba | Embark

Located on the shores of the Red Sea, Aqaba offers Jordan its only access to the sea. At the crossroads of the land and sea routes that linked Asia, Africa, and Europe, the town is rich with more than 5,000 years of history. The warm waters of the Red Sea attract divers to this seaside destination, where the underwater sites are home to colorful coral and fish. Aqaba is also the gateway to the magnificent desert of Wadi Rum and the marvelous site of Petra. Explore this stunning region before boarding your ship and setting off on your journey. 

Day 2: Eilat

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Situated in the far south of Israel on the edge of the Negev Desert between Egypt and Jordan, Eilat is internationally renowned as a high-end seaside resort and spa town, as well as for its magnificent natural sites. The first references to this place date back to the time of King Solomon: his legendary mines are said to be located near the modern city. It is the departure point for visiting the Masada fortress and for the incredible experience of swimming in the Dead Sea.

Day 3: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the onboard photographers in their dedicated space. 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 observe marine species. Enjoy this enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 4: Ain Sukhna, Egypt

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Ain Sukhna, which means “hot spring,” is located in the Gulf of Suez. Around fifty kilometers from the entrance to the Suez Canal, and less than two hours from the Egyptian capital, it is an elegant seaside town that is popular with wealthy families from Cairo. It's also an ideal base for discovering the marvels of Ancient Egypt.

Day 5: Crossing the Suez Canal

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The Suez Canal slices through 162 km of desert and was inaugurated in 1869 in the presence of Empress Eugenie, then nationalized by Nasser in 1956. Today, cruise through this waterway to connect to the Mediterranean.

Day 6: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the onboard photographers in their dedicated space. 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 observe marine species. Enjoy this enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 7: Rhodes, Greece

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
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 center of the island the mountains are covered in forests, and on the western slopes 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 CE to 1522 CE, 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 original Seven Wonders of the World.

Day 8: Kusadasi, Turkey

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. Bathe in the clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk in the shade of palms. In the historical district, wander down the narrow streets and explore the colorful 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.

Day 9: Heraklion, Crete, Greece

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is the island’s most populous city. The hustle and bustle of this seaport is an integral part of its charm. It is built on a hillside overlooking the port and is encircled by impressive Venetian walls. From the top of these, you will be able to enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the city. The old town is teeming with small shops, squares, cafés, and vibrant architectural evidence of the city’s long history. The Palace of Knossos illustrates the wealth and power of its legendary sovereign, King Minos. The archaeological museum houses one of the largest collections of Minoan artifacts and is worth a visit.

Day 10: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the onboard photographers in their dedicated space. 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 observe marine species. Enjoy this enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 11: Valletta, Malta | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and occupies a peninsula in the northeast 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. Visit the Grandmaster's 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. 

Your cruise concludes with breakfast. Disembark and continue on your independent travels, or begin your journey home. 

Ship/Hotel

Le Bougainville

Le Bougainville Ship
Le Bougainville
Le Bouganville Restaurant

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Cabin
Select a Date
Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² Private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 6m² private balcony
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m² Capacity: up to 4 passengers per cabin 8m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Select a Date
Owner's Suite
Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds

Notes

Please note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and are subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 9 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
  • 24h Room Service (special selection)
  • English-Speaking Lecturer 
  • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
  • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Visa Fees
  • 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 
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
  • 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

Map

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
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!
Justin Chappelle

Mediterranean Travel Guide

Favorite Mediterranean All Trips

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By