Ancient shores of the Mediterranean
- ItineraryValletta to MálagaDuration10 days
- DatesPrices from
Come aboard Le Dumont d'Urville for an unforgettable voyage.
In the mild and bright mid-autumn, the Mediterranean is adorned with golden tones and light caresses its ancient shores. Light breezes carry the whispers of civilisations past as the sun kisses the gentle waves, giving them a soothing glow. Between Malta, Italy, Tunisia, Algeria and Spain, sail this legendary sea of exchanges and cultures on a fascinating voyage. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Mediterranean and succumb to the magic of its unique landscapes and historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Experience a cruise where every moment is a journey through history, culture and natural beauty. Take in the spellbinding atmosphere of ancient cities where time seems to stand still, and marvel at the remains of a glorious past, including majestic temples, ruins from antiquity and World Heritage-listed buildings. Discover breathtaking landscapes where the deep blue of the sea meets the golden tones of the Mediterranean coast, and enjoy the tranquillity of places steeped in charm and elegance.
Your voyage
All-inclusive
Destination
Mediterranean
Valletta to Málaga
Duration
10 days, 9 nights on board
Timeless
Free solo supplement, PONANT Bonus 30%
Ref: EU061127
Journey
Your daily itinerary
- A dive into the remnants of ancient Mediterranean civilisations, out of season, between Greece, Italy, Tunisia, Algeria and Spain.
- Discovery of emblematic ancient sites (ruins of Agrigento, Carthage, Tipaza, all UNESCO sites) and old towns (Casbah in Algiers, Medina in Tunis, Syracuse).
- Among your included excursions: the ruins of Hippo Regius in Annaba, a walk on Ortygia Island in Syracuse, and a stroll through Algiers' Casbah.
Customize your journey:
Date
6 Nov 27
Date
4 Nov 27
Date
15 Nov 27
Date
15 Nov 27
Staterooms and suites
Elegance and refinement
Lower deck balcony stateroom
Guests
2
Size
19 m²
Upper decks balcony stateroom
Guests
2
Size
19 m²
Deluxe Suite
Guests
3
Size
27 m²
Prestige Suite
Guests
4
Size
38 m²
Privilege Suite
Guests
3
Size
32 m²
Grand Suite
Guests
4
Size
45 m²
Owner's Suite
Guests
4
Size
45 m²
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Details
More information
What's Included
Important travel details
In your luggage
Ancient shores of the Mediterranean
From
Valletta
To
Málaga
9 nightsaboard the shipLe Dumont d'Urville
Next departure
From
Valletta
To
Málaga
10 nightsaboard the shipLe Bougainville
Next departure
From
Athens
To
Málaga
9 nightsaboard the shipLe Bougainville
Next departure
From
Málaga
To
Valletta
9 nightsaboard the shipLe Boréal
Next departure
Offer(s)
Onboard credit, AUD$800 Shipboard Credit, PONANT Plus Credit, PONANT Bonus 15%
From
AU$9,510 /person*
From
Valletta
To
Athens
8 nightsaboard the shipLe Bougainville
Next departure
Offer(s)
Onboard credit, AUD$800 Shipboard Credit, PONANT Plus Credit, PONANT Bonus 15%
From
AU$9,290 /person*
Ancient Cities of the Mediterranean
From
Athens
To
Valletta
7 nightsaboard the shipLe Dumont d'Urville
Next departures
From
Athens
To
Valletta
8 nightsaboard the shipLe Bougainville
Next departure
From
Civitavecchia (Rome)
To
Venice
8 nightsaboard the shipLe Boréal
Next departures
From
Civitavecchia (Rome)
To
Athens
10 nightsaboard the shipLe Champlain
Next departure
Ancient shores of the Mediterranean
Itinerary
Embarkation 06/11/27 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Departure 06/11/27 at 6:00 pm
6 Nov 27 - Valletta
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.
Arrival 07/11/27 early morning Departure 07/11/27 late afternoon
7 Nov 27 - Syracuse, Sicily
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 civilisations, 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, colours and flavours.
2 available excursionsto this stopover
Arrival 08/11/27 early morning Departure 08/11/27 early afternoon
8 Nov 27 - Porto Empedocle, Sicily
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.
1 available excursionto this stopover
Arrival 09/11/27 early morning Departure 09/11/27 mid afternoon
9 Nov 27 - Tunis
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 will be able to admire one of the world’s finest Roman mosaic collections, including the magnificent portrait of the poet Virgil.
3 available excursionsto this stopover
Arrival 10/11/27 early morning Departure 10/11/27 midday
10 Nov 27 - Annaba
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 will introduce you to the lively, elegant town that inspired numerous artists and writers.
2 available excursionsto this stopover
Arrival 11/11/27 early morning Departure 11/11/27 late afternoon
11 Nov 27 - Algiers
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 will 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.
3 available excursionsto this stopover
Arrival 12/11/27 midday Departure 12/11/27 late afternoon
12 Nov 27 - Cartagena
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 will also be able to cross the landscapes of vines and citrus groves stretching endlessly towards Murcia, to visit this dynamic regional capital.
2 available excursionsto this stopover
Arrival 13/11/27 early morning Departure 13/11/27 late afternoon
13 Nov 27 - Melilla
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.
2 available excursionsto this stopover
Arrival 14/11/27 early morning Departure 14/11/27 late afternoon
14 Nov 27 - Motril
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.
1 available excursionto this stopover
Arrival 15/11/27 early morning Disembarkation 15/11/27 at 8:00 am
15 Nov 27 - Málaga
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 will 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.
Ancient shores of the Mediterranean
Customize your journey
Visit of malta's former capital, mdina
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between airport and embarkation port.
Valletta
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
Drive to Dingli Cliff for a photostop brefore Mdina visiting. Then, proceed to Mdina - Malta's Old Capital. Mdina is one of Europe's finest examples of an ancient walled city, with its extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture.
Continue with the visit of Palazzo Parisio, a unique 19th century palace in the heart of the Mediterranean. Palazzo Parisio is not only another palace of the legendary Knights of St. John, but the ultimate memorial of ambitions, aspirations and pretensions of a 19th century noble family. It houses two baroque walled gardens, including a lovely orangery - a miniature Versailles.
Enjoy a small snack in the Palace.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
· Transfers, and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Important Information: Depending on the day of embarkation, this program may be subject to change : the Cathedral is closed on Sundays, so you will visit the Mosta Basilica instead. Palazzo Parisio is closed on Mondays; so refreshments and snacks will be served at Casa Bernard instead.
Duration and price of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
AU$450/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Maltese escape (2 nights)
AU$2,580/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Walking tour of malaga
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Malaga
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Start your walking exploration: pass by the Cathedral with its renaissance style, the Picasso Museum, hosted in a 16th-century palace of Andalusian architecture, and the nearby famous painter´s birthplace.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
AU$140/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Andalusian córdoba (2 nights)
Travel with peace of mind—PONANT organizes your journey between the airport and your embarkation port.
Day 1: Arrival in Málaga – Ronda – Córdoba
Upon arrival at Málaga airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to the spectacular cliffside town of Ronda (approximately 1h30 drive).
After a short walk through the historic center, enjoy a local lunch. Then embark on a guided walking tour of Ronda: see the famous Puente Nuevo, admire the breathtaking views over the gorge, and immerse yourself in the town’s fascinating history.
In the late afternoon, drive to Córdoba, check in to your hotel, and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Overnight in Córdoba.
Day 2: Córdoba – Mosque-Cathedral and Alcázar
After breakfast, take a walking tour with your guide through Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Visit the Mosque-Cathedral, a masterpiece blending Islamic and Christian architectural influences, and stroll through the flower-filled streets of the Jewish Quarter.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, visit the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs, a medieval palace with remarkable courtyards and gardens. The remainder of the day is free to explore Córdoba at your own pace.
Dinner and second overnight in Córdoba.
Day 3: Bodegas García Hidalgo – Embarkation
After breakfast and check-out from your hotel, depart for Bodegas García Hidalgo, a family-run winery in the heart of the Andalusian vineyards. Enjoy a guided tour followed by a wine tasting accompanied by tapas.
Free time before transfer to Málaga for embarkation on your PONANT ship.
Your Hotel: Hospes Palacio del Bailío 5 – Córdoba*
Housed in a 16th-century historic palace, Hospes Palacio del Bailío combines classical elegance with contemporary comfort. Its fragrant orange gardens, outdoor pool, and spa built on Roman ruins make it a unique and refined setting. The hotel is ideally located in the heart of Córdoba, just minutes from the Mosque-Cathedral and major historic sites.
Address: C. Ramírez de las Casas Deza, 10-12, 14001 Córdoba, Spain
(or a hotel of equivalent category)
Your program includes:
-
2 nights in a standard room at Hospes Palacio del Bailío 5* (or similar), including breakfast
-
All transfers and excursions mentioned in the program
-
Services of a French-speaking guide
-
Meals mentioned in the program
-
Drinks with meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + coffee or tea)
Your program does not include:
-
Tips for drivers and guides
-
Personal expenses
-
Services not mentioned in the program
To confirm your PONANT flight times, please contact your advisor or refer to the e-ticket included in your travel documents. In case of schedule changes for the PONANT-selected flight, your program will be adjusted to ensure the best possible experience. The final program will also be communicated in your travel documents and on the PONANT app.
AU$3,060/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Ancient shores of the Mediterranean
Other available dates
06/11/2715/11/27
9 nights aboard the ship Le Dumont d'Urville
Free solo supplement, PONANT Bonus 30%
From
/person*
12/12/2521/12/25
9 nights aboard the ship Le Lapérouse
PONANT Bonus 10%
From
/person*
16/11/2625/11/26
9 nights aboard the ship Le Champlain
Free solo supplement, PONANT Bonus 25%
From
/person*
23/10/2701/11/27
9 nights aboard the ship Le Lapérouse
Free solo supplement, PONANT Bonus 30%
From
/person*
30/10/2708/11/27
9 nights aboard the ship Le Bougainville
Free solo supplement, PONANT Bonus 30%
From
/person*