Ancient shores of the Mediterranean

The capital of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located on a peninsula in the northeast of Malta. The city includes a mix of wide streets and narrow stairways. Historic buildings feature details such as painted loggias and carved stone supports, and traffic is limited in many areas. Key sites include the Grandmaster’s Palace, Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, and the city’s fortifications dating back to the 16th century. The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer open green spaces and views over the surrounding area.

Sicily has a varied landscape that includes rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and Mount Etna, an active volcano. The island also has hillside gardens and agricultural areas. Syracuse was an important city in ancient times and once rivaled Athens in influence. It was a center of Greek culture and later shaped by different civilizations, including Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine, and Spanish. This history is reflected in the city’s architecture, layout, and local traditions.

Included excursions:

Archaeological site & Ortygia
Depart the pier by coach and drive to the archaeological area, which you reach after a short drive.
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for fights between gladiators and wild beasts, the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century BC to celebrate the "Eleutherian Feast", the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons, the Ear of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo and the Greek Theatre, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, constructed in the 5th century BC and successively enlarged.
Upon completion of the visit, re-board your coach for the short drive to Ortygia, which you visit on foot. On Ortygia Island discover the Piazza Pancali (the ruins of the Temple of Apollo of the 6th century BC), Corso Matteotti, Archimede's Place, Piazza Duomo. Visit the Cathedral in Baroque style, erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva: in the interiors, see the undamaged twelve Doric columns. Then visit the fountain of Arethusa, the nymph praised by Pindar and Virgilio in one of the most touching and fine myths. Several nobility palaces - majority of them originating in the 15th and 16th centuries - were seen from the outside during the walking tour.
Then, return to the port and your ship.
This excursion involves approximately 3.1 miles (5 km) of walking over uneven terrain and cobble stones as well as steps. It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). This tour is not recommended for passengers with reduced mobility.

Noto, Baroque Town
Depart by coach from the port through the countryside, passing through villages and almond groves as you make your way to Noto, the second largest town in Syracuse province and the best example of Sicilian Baroque architecture on the island.
You cross on foot the Public Gardens, where it is possible to admire the busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style.
Besides the 18th century Cathedral, restored after damage suffered during 1990 earthquake, other impressive buildings are the Churches of St Domenico and of St Charles (del Colleggio), the “Ducezio” Palace and “Villadorata” Palace.
Noto has been declared a Heritage site by UNESCO, who also provides financial support for the reconstruction of monuments destroyed during 1990 earthquake.
A refreshment is offered at a local bar, and then you enjoy some free time to browse around before commencing the return drive to Syracuse.
This excursion involves approximately 1.2 mile (2 km) of walking mostly over easy terrain, except for steps to enter churches. It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The palace visits are only outside visits. This tour is not recommended for guest with limited mobility.

Huddled on the south-western coast of Sicily, Porto Empedocles bears the name of the philosopher Empedocles, who lived in the region in the 5th century BC. An age-old city offered up to sun and sea, this is your doorway to the exceptional archaeological site of Temple Valley, a high place of Greek civilisation listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can admire the remains of many temples dedicated to Zeus, his wife Hera and Hephaestus. Make sure you take in the magnificent Italian countryside, with its olive orchards that cover the hillsides.

Included excursions:

Valley of the Temples, Museum and Casa Barbadoro
From the pier, embark your coach for the 30-minute drive to the Valley of the Temples.
The archaeological area known as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
From the entrance of the archaeological site, you start your 1-hour and a half walking tour.
You walk through the area surrounded by countryside covered by beautiful almond and olive trees, the guide leads you among the most important monuments: Temple of Juno, Temple of Concord, Temple of Hercules and the famous Temple of Zeus (the largest temple of Greek antiquity).
At the end of the walk, enjoy a refreshment at Casa Barbadoro, inside the park. Casa Barbadoro present you their project to enhance and promote the artistic, cultural, natural and agricultural heritage of the 1300 hectares of the Archeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples.
You then visit the Museum of Agrigento, one of the most important archaeological museum in Sicily, containing impressive collections of Greek vases, coins, etc.
After the visit, you board your coach and drive to the pier.
This tour involves approximately 1.8 mile (3 km) of walking over paved road and uneven paths with some steps. It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

At the crossroads of civilisations, the capital of Tunisia is rich in cultural discoveries. The ruins of Ancient Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and particularly well preserved, testify to the splendour of this city that was once Rome’s great rival. The hill of Byrsa, the former fortified citadel of the Phoenician port and one of the presumed burial places of Saint Louis who died there during the Eighth Crusade, offers spectacular views over the Gulf of Tunis. In the Bardo National Museum, you can admire one of the world’s finest Roman mosaic collections, including the magnificent portrait of the poet Virgil.

Included excursions:

Visit of eternal Carthage and Sidi Bou Said
Not far north from Tunis, time seems to stand still. On the one hand, the majestic Carthage and its millennial ruins invite you to dive into history; on the other, the small arty village of Sidi Bou Saïd celebrates a slower and more gentle way of life.
Around the hill of Byrsa, the days stretch out to the slow rhythm of the stones gilded by the sun and the plants taking root in mythology. Here you are on the archaeological site of Carthage, a Tunisian diamond and extraordinary witness of the grandeur of Roman civilisation. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, overlooking the deep blue of the Mediterranean, the city is full of treasures. The impressive Roman Baths of Antoninus, the Carthage Tophet, the ruins of the Punic Ports, and the theatre are reminders that, at one time, the town was a rival of Ancient Rome.
Not far from here, and still opposite the azure blue, the citadel of Sidi Bou Saïd dominates the Gulf of Tunis. The whitewashed houses with blue roofs make up a labyrinth of narrow cobbled little streets, home to artist galleries, small cafés and restaurants, perfect to stop to taste some delightful Tunisian pastries. Here, everything is an ode to epicureanism and the slow and gentle life so popular with the inhabitants. Only the breathtaking views that may appear at the corner of a street seem able to disturb, for a brief moment, this enchanting way of life.
This excursion involves approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking on cobbled, uneven and sometimes steep surfaces. It is recommended that you wear good walking shoes, comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water.

Medina of Tunis and Sidi Bou Said
Wander the medina of Tunis and fall under the charm of the pretty village of Sidi Bou Saïd.
Follow your guide through the narrow streets of the old town of Tunis and discover the rich cultural heritage of the fortified old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You cross the unmissable souk to meet the brotherhoods of merchants and artisans, who bring this unchanging place to life.
You then head for Sidi Bou Saïd, a Moorish village of immaculate white and blue houses. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Tunis, it has managed to retain its charm and tranquillity. Stroll its narrow little streets and admire the magnificent views of the Gulf, or fall under the spell of the fragrances of chichas escaping from historical cafés.
This excursion involves around 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking on uneven, cobbled and sometimes sloping surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.

Annaba, a coastal town in eastern Algeria, is the country's fourth largest city. It contains many heritage treasures, including the ancient site of Hippo, the largest Roman forum in Africa. From the Cap de Garde lighthouse, you get a splendid and varied panoramic view with mountains and sea, while the basilica of Saint Augustine, the bishop of Hippo in the 4th century, overlooks the city with its majestic white dome. A stroll along the Corniche and the Cours de la Révolution introduces you to the lively, elegant town that inspired numerous artists and writers.

The beauty of the Bay of Algiers offers travellers arriving by sea an unforgettable view. The Casbah houses cascade down to the Haussmann-style buildings and the hustle and bustle of the Mediterranean city creates a unique atmosphere. Algiers the White proudly bears the traces of its history with its magnificent Casbah, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, its tropical garden called Jardin d’Essai, its Martyr’s Memorial, its imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, and its lively city centre with its Grande Poste (main post office) and French quarter. Seventy kilometres (43 miles) away, you have the possibility of visiting Tipaza, one of the most extraordinary archaeological complexes of the Maghreb, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO. Once a trading post of the Carthaginians and later the Romans, the ancient city is home to the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, a funerary monument providing precious evidence of what was once the Punic world.

Included excursions:

Tipaza & chercell
Step back in time on an exceptional day exploring Algeria’s ancient treasures and stunning coastal landscapes.
After disembarking, board your coach for a scenic drive along the Mediterranean coast toward Tipasa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, stop to admire the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, the majestic tomb of King Juba II and Queen Cleopatra Selene, a striking testament to North Africa’s classical past.
Continue on to the Roman ruins of Tipasa, beautifully set between the sea and the hills. Explore this vast archaeological site, where an amphitheater, basilica, and ancient villas overlook the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.
After your visit, enjoy a traditional Algerian lunch at a seaside restaurant before returning to Algiers. On arrival, a photo stop allows you to admire the city’s famous Grande Poste, an architectural gem and emblem of the capital, before heading back to the port through the elegant city center.
This excursion involves moderate walking on uneven terrain and ancient stone surfaces at Tipasa, as well as some paved areas during other visits.

A glimpse of Algiers
A city where history, faith, and Mediterranean charm blend harmoniously, Algiers invites you on a captivating journey through its heritage.
After disembarking, a short drive takes you to the Martyrs’ Memorial, an iconic monument overlooking the city. Enjoy panoramic views of Algiers while tracing the nation’s path to independence.
Continue by coach to the city center, where a short walk leads to the Grande Poste, an architectural gem and symbol of the city’s colonial past. Take the time to capture its majestic white façade and the lively atmosphere of the surrounding square.
Your visit continues to the Basilica of Notre-Dame d’Afrique, perched on the heights of Bologhine. Admire this remarkable 19th-century church, famous for its inscription “Our Lady of Africa, pray for us and for the Muslims,” as well as the spectacular view over the Bay of Algiers.
Conclude your excursion with a peaceful drive back to the port, passing through the heart of the Algerian capital.
The excursion includes approximately 1 to 1.5 km of easy walking on paved surfaces, with short distances between drop-off points and the sites visited.

Algiers uncovered
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Algiers on this captivating excursion. Upon disembarking, head to the port for a short drive to the Museums of Antiquities and Islamic Arts, two of the oldest and most fascinating institutions in North Africa. Admire ancient mosaics, refined ceramics, and masterful craftsmanship that tell the story of Algeria’s rich civilizations through the centuries.
Continue your exploration with a panoramic walk through downtown Algiers, admiring its elegant boulevards and French-inspired architecture. Stop at Audin Square, a meeting point between old and modern Algiers, then stroll to the Grande Poste, one of the city’s iconic landmarks. Take a moment to capture photos in front of its majestic Moorish-style façade.
Board your coach to reach the Palais des Raïs – Bastion 23, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Explore its courtyards, arches, and breathtaking sea views, perfectly capturing the charm of Algiers’ waterfront.
Your excursion concludes with a peaceful return to the port, leaving you with lasting memories of your cultural discoveries. You cover a total distance of approximately 2 to 3 km. The level of walking is moderate, on flat paved surfaces inside the museums, as well as on some uneven or cobbled areas near Bastion 23.
 

Surrounded by hills, the natural site of the Bay of Carthagena presided over the fate of this former fortress which has been home to the greatest European civilisations. Today, these Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Moorish and Christian influences form a rich architectural heritage. Its Roman theatre is one of the most significant and best conserved in Spain. You are also able to cross the landscapes of vines and citrus groves stretching endlessly towards Murcia, to visit this dynamic regional capital.

Included excursions:

Horses of Spain
From the pier, embark your coach for a shorth drive to a beautiful Spanish finca, situated on the outskirts of Cartagena. Here, pure Spanish breed horses are bred and sent all over the world.
 
Upon arrival, visit the finca and learn more about Spanish horses and their natural environment. Dedicated staff tell you about the horses breeding, livestock management and horse training. Observe a stampede of horses, a truly spectacular sight, enjoy a local product tasting such as local wine and typical snacks.
Then, watch a short flamenco dance performed by a dancer and a horse. 
 
Finally, get back to your coach for a short panoramic drive back to the pier.
This tour involves walking 1 mile (1,5 km) on uneven and lawn ground and some steps. It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun, with a hat. The whole visit is performed outside and flies are expected. To avoid flies, you should not put perfume or perfumed cosmetic. Please be aware that there are long periods of standing as a limited number of seats are available in the finca. It is not possible to visit the inside of the finca neither the stables. Food allergies and intolerances must be communicated well in advance.

Cartagena and Roman theater
This excursion is the best way to immerse yourself in the ancient Roman city “Carthagonova” and discover the different aspects of the inhabitants’ daily life at that time.
From the pier, meet your guide and start your walking tour of the heart of Cartagena, a city proud of its millennial past, above all the famous Second Punic War: the confrontation between the Carthaginians and Romans.
Start your tour visiting the Roman theatre, one of the most emblematic monuments of Cartagena. This theatre played an important role at the time of Ancient Rome and had a capacity for 6.000 people.
Continue to the Conception castle (outside visit only), boarding a panoramic lift to the roof terrace, an integral part of lovely Torres Park, located on one of the city’s five defensive hills, offering breath-taking city views.
Before returning to the ship, you explore the Calle Mayor, Cartagena’s major commercial and pedestrian street, where you have the opportunity to admire landmarks such as the Gran Hotel and the Cervantes House and enjoy some free time.
This excursion involves approximately 2 miles (3 km) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The order of the visits may vary. The Roman theatre Museum visit is not included in this tour. Many steps without handrails at the roman theatre archaeological site. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability.

On the Mediterranean shore, the easternmost Andalusian capital, the legendary Almería (from the Arab Al-Mariy-yat, meaning watchtower), has a coastline of preserved beaches with an interior characterised by its typical desert ecosystem. In the past an important port for the Caliphate of Córdoba, Almería has a remarkable citadel and a cathedral whose imperious structure stands in the very centre of the old town. This old town, with its narrow streets, charms you with its lime washed walls and its rich historical and cultural heritage.

An autonomous city of Spain on the North African coast, Melilla and its citadel sit on the edge of Cape Three Forks, between Morocco and the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views of this blue expanse. A perfect blend of history and modernity, the city boasts charming cobbled streets, imposing ramparts and a number of historic sites that are well worth a visit, including the Baluarte de la Concepción and the Hospital del Rey. In contrast to these vestiges of the city's military past, the Art Nouveau curves of the Palacio de la Asamblea, Casa Melul, the Reconquista building and Plaza Menéndez Pelayo reflect the influence of Gaudi's student Enrique Nieto, who lived here, and the great Catalan Modernist period. After Barcelona, Melilla has the largest number of buildings in this style.

On the shores of the Mediterranean, Motril enjoys a special place on the Costa Tropical. Sheltered from the cold northerly winds thanks to the mountains that surround this Andalusian city, the city benefits from an ideal micro-climate.

Included excursion:

Granada and the Alhambra Exclusive visit (return Malaga)
This tour must be prebooked at least 60 days prior to your cruise. Any reservation made after this deadline is confirmed on board based on availability.
A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour. This excursion has limited capacity.
From the port of Motril, travel to Granada, located approximately 640 meters (2,100 feet) above sea level, at the foot of the majestic Sierra Nevada. This iconic city embodies the splendor of Moorish Andalusia. From the 8th century onward, the Moors profoundly shaped the history and architecture of southern Spain, leaving Granada with an exceptional cultural heritage, whose finest expression is the Alhambra.
Your discovery begins in the historic Albayzín district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From this maze of picturesque streets, enjoy a spectacular panorama overlooking the Alhambra and the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada.
You then proceed to the Alhambra for an exclusive visit to this masterpiece of Islamic architecture. This monumental complex includes several palaces and gardens, among them the Generalife, an elegant summer palace surrounded by lush gardens, reached via a majestic avenue lined with cypress trees.
As your visit unfolds, admire the richness of the decoration within the Palais Nasrides: delicate arabesques, refined calligraphy, geometric motifs, and intricately sculpted ceilings reflect the sophistication of Moorish art. Among the palace’s treasures, discover the Hall of the Ambassadors and the famous Court of the Lions, timeless symbols of elegance and refinement.
The Alhambra opens its doors exclusively for Ponant, offering a privileged immersion into one of Spain’s most prestigious sites.
At the end of this unique experience, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your ship. 
An unforgettable experience blending history, art, and enchantment in an exceptional setting.
The order of visits may vary depending on local conditions.

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. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, you go first to the courtly plaza de la Merced. A few streets back from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist, in the Buenavista palace.