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Explore Valencia

Heavenly Islands & Iberian shores

Example 13 Day Cruise aboard Le Bougainville
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Explore some of the finest port cities of the Western Mediterranean on this 13-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville. Board your ship in Civitavecchia, the port for the legendary city of Rome, and set off across the Mediterranean sea. Visit Bonifacio, a gorgeous clifftop town on the rocky island of Corsica. Visit highlights of the Balearic Islands, from Menorca to Palma de Mallorca, and find beautiful beaches and abundant sunshine. Explore the avant-garde architecture of Valencia, and the ancient, diverse history of Cadiz. Your journey concludes in the incredible city of Lisbon, where you can explore ornate architecture and taste exquisite local cuisines. 
Explore colorful ValenciaAdmire sun-soaked MalagaExplore historic Bonifacio atop the cliffs of CorsicaExplore Palma de MallorcaThe beautiful port city of Cadiz, SpainWander the charming streets of SpainVisit the historic Belem tower near LisbonExplore Valencia
Highlights
  • Explore the spectacular old clifftop town of Bonifacio, Corsica
  • Soak up sun on the beaches of the Balearic Islands and the Costa del Sol
  • Discover the long history and rich culture of the ancient city of Cadiz
  • Tour historic sites and taste local cuisine in Lisbon
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.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Civitavecchia | Embark

Explore Civitavecchia, the port city for Rome. Located 80 kilometers from the Italian capital, Civitavecchia combines art, culture, and ancient history in a beautiful city by the Tyrrhenian sea. This afternoon, board your ship and embark on your journey. 

Day 2: Bonifacio, Corsica

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The spectacular town of Bonifacio, located on the very tip of southern Corsica, clings to a narrow promontory of white rock overhanging the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Admire its limestone cliffs hewn out by the wind before setting off on a tour of its cultural treasures. From the little paved streets in the ancient Haute Ville to the promenade on the open-air medieval chemin de ronde, this stunning town will take you on a journey back in time. There are numerous beaches to choose from, all in keeping with the high standards of the “Île de Beauté.”

Today you may choose to join an optional excursion:
From the pier, board your local boat for a cruise along the coast of Bonifacio to enjoy a panoramic view of the citadel and upper town. Start your exploration with the marine caves which are home to numerous birds including falcons, puffins, and swifts. Exiting the harbor via the inlet, discover the ramparts which encircle the old city.
After passing the limestone cliffs, reach the Sdragonatu marine cave (dragon’s cave). Its roof is pierced by a fissure in the shape of a map of Corsica.
Then, continue to the Lavezzi Islands, marine wildlife and plants sanctuary which makes up one of Corsica’s two marine reserves. These uninhabited barren islands of granite rock lie seven miles southeast of Bonifacio.
Enjoy an hour of free time to swim, relax on the beach, or walk around. This island also offers numerous paths to discover different islets and coves. The island is home to several rare species of wildflowers, including the yellow horned poppy and white sea daffodil, and was declared a nature reserve in 1982.
On the way back, pass Cavallo Island and Pointe de Sperone, before cruising along the Calanques and cliffs to the Bonifacio marina

 

Day 3: Alghero, Sardinia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Alghero offers you traces of Sardinian culture combined with vestiges from a Catalan past. Here, many inhabitants speak the Algherese dialect, a variant of Catalan, as well as Catalan itself. A walk along the well-preserved medieval ramparts offers a panoramic view of the town. The streets in the historical center bear witness to its rich past, from Santa Maria Cathedral to numerous palaces dating from different eras.

Day 4: Mahon, Balearic Islands

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Delight in the colorful houses of Mahon, its narrow streets, and pretty squares that appear as you stroll around this richly contrasting city. Mahon reveals its different neighborhoods, alternating between monuments, villas, and white buildings. Visit the Santa Maria church, a building of neo-Gothic inspiration, rebuilt in the 18th Century. It is worth a visit to see its monumental organ, with more than 3,000 pipes and four keyboards. Around the Carmen church, find a local market full of stands selling avarcas, typical Menorcan sandals originally made by peasants. Let yourself fall under the spell of this Mediterranean treasure.

Today you may choose to join an optional excursion:
From the pier, board your coach for the 50-minute drive to the old capital of the island, Ciutadella. Founded by the Carthaginians, Ciutadella remained the capital of Menorca until 1772, and it remains the ecclesiastical capital to this day. Ciutadella has a rather grand air with many elegant historical buildings, churches, and large squares. The old town is packed with impressive architecture, including a gothic cathedral and several palaces belonging to noble families, some of which are open to the public. Upon your arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the historic center of town before taking some free time to wander the streets.
From here, head back toward Mahon and, en route, enjoy a photo stop at the beautiful Cala Galdana beach resort, set in a horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by pine-clad cliffs. Finally, discover the magnificent views at Fornells Bay before returning to Mahon.

Day 5: Palma De Mallorca, Balearic islands

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Palma de Mallorca reveals its many treasures: idyllic coves, majestic limestone cliffs that plunge into the clear sapphire- and turquoise-colored waters of the Mediterranean, and vast plains planted with almond trees, olive trees, and vineyards. When your ship calls to the capital of the Balearic Islands, take a walk to discover its emblematic monuments, such as its famous cathedral, and amble through its old streets. Here, like a painting, the island’s historical heritage forms a backdrop to the lively and warm cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Mediterranean.  
 

Day 6: Valencia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Valencia - the city of Art and Sciences. Two hearts beat in this Spanish city: one is modern, avant garde, and almost futuristic; the other is more provincial, more traditional, and nostalgic. Valencia has the temperament of a great Mediterranean city whose wide avenues form a border around the old town. The city has an abundance of architectural styles that coexist harmoniously, but above all it resolutely embraces the 21st Century with the futuristic structures of its Agora congress center and City of Arts and Sciences.

Day 7: 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 8: Malaga

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
A historical and festive town, Malaga is located in Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising out from the cypresses and maritime pines. Here you can visit the birthplace of famed painter Pablo Picasso, as well as the museum dedicated to this world-renowned artist.

Day 9: Marbella

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
In the province of Malaga, Marbella is a renowned seaside resort on the Costa del Sol. The remains of early Christian and Roman sites around this former mining town, located at the foot of the Sierra Blanca mountains, bear witness to a rich history. With its white houses on flowery little streets, the old town is perfect for a pleasant stroll. The Plaza de Los Naranjos, the former focal point of the city, is near the 10th-century Arabic castle and the Church of Santa María de la Encarnación. Nearby, discover the magnificent viewpoints offered by Ronda, a picturesque town perched 700 meters (2,296 feet) high. Its Puente Nuevo bridge majestically crosses the gorges of the Guadalevin River that cuts the town in two.

Day 10: Cadiz

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Andalusia’s Cadiz is located on the Costa de la Luz, in the southwest of Spain. From the beaches of Cortadura to the flamenco bars of Santa Maria, through the colorful streets of la Viña, explore this amazing city, which is both steeped in history and extremely festive. In the medieval El Pópulo district, stroll along covered passages in the narrow gaps between houses, or take the time to wander around the lush Mina square. The star of the show is the magnificent cathedral and its dome crowned with yellow porcelain, presiding above the sea.

Today you may choose to join an optional excursion:

From the pier, take a panoramic drive through Cádiz and observe the most beautiful sights of the city. Discover the Parque Genoves, one of the major areas of greenery of the town. Then, between the Parque Gloves and the attractive Caleta Beach, find the Castillo of Santa Catalina, which is formed by the remains of the old canal that once crossed Cádiz. Your next stop will be at the tablao Flamenco La Cava, for an exciting performance of this powerful and energetic Spanish dance. Rhythmically tapping heels, clicking castanets, the traditional rascado flourishes of the guitar and the emotional voices of the singers blend to create a truly mesmerizing experience. During the show, enjoy typical tapas to be totally immersed in the local atmosphere.
After the show, take a leisurely walk back to your ship.

OR

Follow your guide to discover the most beautiful sights on a stroll through the old city of Cádiz, and visit the most emblematic squares and sights. Among the main sites, see the very old part of Cádiz called Barrio Pópulo. This guided walking tour will lead you to the Cathedral and the Cathedral Square, the town hall (exterior) and the Plaza de San Juan Dios, the shopping area Calle Ancha, Plaza Mina, Plaza San Francisco, Plaza San Antonio, Plaza España, Plaza de las Flores and local food market. After your walking tour, visit the Museum of Cádiz, founded in 1970 after the merger of the Museum of Fine Arts with the Museum of Archaeology. Finally, enjoy some free time before returning to your ship.

Day 11: 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 12: Lisbon

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Portugal’s capital, located on the banks of the Tagus River only a few kilometers from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbor impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments: Jeronimos monastery and Belem tower. The Alfama hillside is also worth visiting: known for its fado bars and Moorish streets, this district is the oldest in the city and one of the most typical. Nearby Chiado’s elegant streets are home to big fashion labels and are an invitation to a bit of luxury shopping.

Today you may choose to join an optional excursion: 

From the pier, board your coach and pass by the historic districts of Lisbon: Rossio, also known as Dom Pedro IV Square, a lively place at any time of the day; Marquis of Pombal Square, dominated by the statue of the chief minister of Portugal between 1750 and 1777; and Belém, known as the Discoveries quarter due to its 16th-century monuments. Admire Belém Tower's lacy Venetian balconies and turreted towers, and the Monument of the Discoveries, an impressive structure dedicated to Henry the Navigator, designed to commemorate the age of the Discoveries.
Walk to Jeronimos Church & Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 16th century. This monument, with a late gothic (Manueline style) architecture, is a tribute to the Portuguese Discoveries. It was designed by several architects to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India. The construction began on January 06, 1501, and was completed during the 17th century. The monastery was built on the site of the former chapel Santa Maria de Belém, where Vasco da Gama prayed before sailing towards the African coast to reach India. Afterward, enjoy some free time before reboarding your coach and returning to the pier.

OR

From the pier, board your four-wheel drive Jeep for a 45-minute drive to Sesimbra. On the way, take the 25th April Bridge. Built by the American Steel Company and inaugurated in 1966, it closely resembles the famed Golden Gate Bridge in California. After crossing the bridge, head to Sesimbra fishing village. Make a stop at Sesimbra medieval Castle, which stands on a cliff over a cove and offers stunning views.
Your tour will take you to Portinho da Arrábida beach (weather permitting), admiring the Arrábida Natural Park. Enjoy a driving tour discovering the unique landscape of this coastal park. One of the main attractions is the wealth of its indigenous vegetation, one of the reasons which led the Arrábida zone to be considered as a genuine international scientific relic. On the way, enjoy some photo stops to admire the white limestone cliffs and sea views.
At the end of your tour, head to Azeitão to visit a wine cellar and taste local wines made with Moscatel grapes.
Finally, return to your ship.
 

Day 13: Lisbon | Disembark

Your journey concludes after breakfast. Disembark in Lisbon to continue your independent travels or begin your journey home. 

Ship/Hotel

Le Bougainville

Le Bougainville Ship
Le Bougainville
Le Bouganville Restaurant

Dates & Prices

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Per person starting at
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Cabin
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Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² Private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Deluxe Suite
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 6m² private balcony
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Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
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Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m² Capacity: up to 4 passengers per cabin 8m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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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
  • 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners
  • 12 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

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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