From the Adriatic to the Ionian Sea

Dubrovnik, emblematic of the Dalmatian coast, stands proudly on a rocky spur. History reigns supreme in this ancient UNESCO World Heritage city. The grandeur of La Placa, the main thoroughfare, may surprise you—it spans a former lagoon. Elegant houses in legendary travertine line its path. Enter through Pile gate, where Saint Dubrovnik's statue welcomes you, offering views of the coastline from atop the ramparts. Nearby, Fort Saint John houses a maritime museum and an aquarium showcasing rare Adriatic fish.
 

Explore Mljet Island, located off the Pelješac peninsula, renowned for its national park and preserved forests. This Croatian gem boasts serene walking paths connecting bays around two saltwater lakes. Veliko Jezero, the largest lake, features a tiny island housing an ancient Benedictine monastery.

​This harbor town has a very special location, presiding on a spur on the northeastern coast of the island of Korçula. The ramparts in its medieval district provide perfect vantage points over the Peljesac peninsula. To get there, you can take the monumental staircase in the Revelin Tower. Another way is to climb the steps in the shade of palm trees from the MorskaVrata (Marine portal). As you make your way through the little streets, you’ll see the bell tower of Saint Mark’s Cathedral rise above you. This landmark will help you locate the house where Marco Polo was born. The island also has some of its own famous wines, like the red Plavac and the white Posip.

You will approach Vis, a little and little-known island ignored by cruise itineraries. With your yacht at anchor, you will disembark by Zodiac in Komiža, the oldest fishing port in the Adriatic, to spend a pleasant moment in a charming setting. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, you will set off on foot or by bike to explore the port, its old fishermen’s houses in cut stone, its small market stalls or cafe terraces and get a taste of the gentle way of life that reigns here. The ballet of the fishing boats is a reminder of the city’s essential activity and its strong connection to the sea. A few minutes from there, let yourself be tempted by a dip next to a pretty pebble beach. Opposite the turquoise water stands Our Lady of Pirates, a stunning church that shelters the oldest organ in Dalmatia. You can also enjoy an included experience, such as diving near the shipwrecks from the Second World War or visiting the island in a 4x4 vehicle up to Vis, discovering its singular history.

Discover the beauty of Vis on the island of the same name, an unspoilt haven that has been timidly opened to tourism since 1990, following Croatia's independence. Fall under the spell of its historical heritage, which includes Roman ruins and Venetian architecture. Simplicity and authenticity are the watchwords of this rural territory, which is geared towards organic agriculture as well as responsible viticulture and fishing.

Situated in one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, the medieval city of Kotor is a small town full of charm, truly imbued with the traditions and stories of another time. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, this village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has preserved many historical monuments from this epoch. During your stop, be sure to admire the impressive castle that dominates the town, and let yourself fall under the charm of its maze of small streets and intimate squares on which folk festivals featuring magnificent colorful costumes are often organized.

During your journey 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 center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT 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. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

An ancient port in the Epirus region, picturesque Parga is located on the western coast of the Greek mainland. Ancient classical ruins and the Venetian citadel bear witness to the town's colorful history and the diverse influences that shaped it. Take the time to discover this ancient fishing village built like an amphitheater, by strolling along the picturesque maze of pedestrian streets lined with small, typical Greek houses decorated with flowers and many lively taverns.

During your journey 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 center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT 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. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Gallipoli, which comes from the Greek kalle polis, meaning beautiful town, is very aptly named. Located on the heel of the boot, the town known as “the pearl of Puglia” has many attractions. The whiteness of its façades recalls its Greek origins, while its architecture echoes its multiple influences. Its old town, perched on a limestone island, concentrates the cultural heritage of this city with a thousand faces, alternately a Roman colony, then Byzantine, the property of the Popes, Norman, under the rule of Taranto… By itself, it tells the story of the different civilizations of the Mediterranean Sea. 

Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, in the province of Messina, the seaside town of Taormina is Sicily’s Saint-Tropez, boasting heritage sites, secluded beaches, and luxury shopping. You can visit its medieval center, suspended 300 meters above sea level, where terraces offer a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another vestige from its past is the ruins of the Greco-Roman theatre. This extremely well-preserved site attracts visitors who are fascinated by the natural beauty of the area, which overlooks a turquoise bay.

The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.