Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom
19 m2
2
Island Hopping in the Mediterranean
Valletta - Nice
Dates:
7/10/2022
to
14/10/2022
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Discover a PONANT itinerary in the heart of the Mediterranean: join us aboard Le Jacques-Cartier for an unforgettable 8-day cruise between Malta, Italy and France. Succumb to the charms of the Mediterranean and its breathtaking islands.
Your cruise will start in Valletta, the capital of the island of Malta, and former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.
Set sail for the Mediterranean islands and discover the beautiful Sicily. Your first stop will be in Syracuse, one of the most prestigious Sicilian cities, whose monuments are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage, and you will take the sea once again to discover Catania whose Late Baroque style monuments spread to the foot of Mount Etna.
You will also call in at Palermo, the capital, where you will be able to visit emblematic landmarks such as the 12th century cathedral and Teatro Massimo, one of the largest theatres in Europe.
Le Jacques-Cartier will then arrive in Cagliari, capital of Sardinia and one of the largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean; its historic centre is full of charm, with shaded stairs, small squares inundated with light and remains conjuring up its medieval grandeur.
You will then sail towards the Isle of Beauty to Porto-Vecchio. Overlooked by its 16th-century Genovese citadel, this charming port in southern Corsica will enchant you with its rich history and the idyllic beaches that surround it.
Your ship will then sail to the island of Elba for a final call in Portoferraio, a small corner of paradise on the island of Elba, where Napoleon spend many days in exile.
Your cruise will end in Nice, capital of the French Riviera.
Ref : X071022
Your itinerary
A cruise in the Mediterranean to visit some of its most beautiful islands: Elba, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily and Malta. Discovery of the wonders of the Tyrrhenian Sea. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the old town...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE BELLOT
LE LYRIAL
- New
LE BOUGAINVILLE
- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
22/6/2023 to the 10/7/2023
LE BOUGAINVILLE
*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.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Wi-Fi Internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise in the Mediterranean to visit some of its most beautiful islands: Elba, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily and Malta.
- Discovery of the wonders of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the old town of Syracuse, Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale, Valetta (disembarkation port).
- In Syracuse, visit the archaeological park of Neapolis and its prestigious 5th century before Christ theatre.
- Discover the isle of Beauty, Corsica, and the splendid Porto- Vecchio, once a Genoese city and now a seaside resort travellers flock to for its heavenly beaches.
- The island of Elba and Portoferraio, where Napoleon was exiled.
Ports of Call & Excursions
7 October 2022 - Valletta
Embarkation 7/10/2022 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 7/10/2022 at 6:00 pm
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.
8 October 2022 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 8/10/2022 early morning
Departure 8/10/2022 evening
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.
9 October 2022 - Catania, Sicily
Arrival 9/10/2022 early morning
Departure 9/10/2022 mid afternoon
Sicily’s second city Catania is dominated by the majestic silhouette of Mount Etna. Nourishing and devastating at the same time, this giant crowned with smoke rings brought about the destruction of the city at the end of the 17th century. Catania was then rebuilt in the late Baroque style, and the many monuments of this epoch have earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The baroque churches of the harmonious Via dei Crociferi perfectly illustrate the riches of this architectural heritage. During your stop, be sure to visit Saint Agatha Cathedral with its apses made of lava stones, and its square decorated with a fountain of the Elephant, the animal which allegedly has the power to calm the fury of Mount Etna …
10 October 2022 - Palermo, Sicily
Arrival 10/10/2022 early morning
Departure 10/10/2022 mid afternoon
Palermo is the guardian of the Sicilian soul. Many have been attracted to this city, the largest capital of the Italian islands. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans... Palermo is a rich culmination of so many cultural influences as seen in the Moorish designs on the cathedral, and the Byzantine mosaics of the Palatine chapel, which is itself housed within the precincts of the Norman palace. You will fall under the spell of the palaces, baroque splendours that grace the town with their obsolete beauty. It is thrilling to stumble upon one of those fabulous markets, high in colour, and headily picturesque.
11 October 2022 - Cagliari, Sardinia
Arrival 11/10/2022 midday
Departure 11/10/2022 late afternoon
The capital of Sardinia, Cagliari, like Rome, is built on seven hills. Its Sardinian name means “castle”, in reference to the citadel, its historic centre, which dominates the city. The old ramparts are now pleasant panoramic terraces bordering picturesque streets. The city hosted the Nuragic, Phoenician, Roman and Byzantine civilisations before the rein of the Spanish Hapsburgs and the House of Savoy. The monuments of Cagliari bear the traces of these successive dominations, such as the Bastion of Saint-Rémy or the Sainte-Marie Cathedral. On the sea front, Art Nouveau-style public monuments give way to the Poetto beach, a magnificent stretch of sand that is 8 kilometres long.
12 October 2022 - Porto-Vecchio, Corsica
Arrival 12/10/2022 early morning
Departure 12/10/2022 evening
Sitting in the curve of a very popular gulfin the south-west of Corsica, Porto Vecchio is a small city where the air is salty and infused with woody notes. The upper town stands within the walls of a 16th century Genoese citadel, a symbol of the resistance to the barbarian invasions and to malaria.
From marshland to salt pans, the city, which has been rebuilt many times, became the “city of salt”. Under the Mediterranean sun, the idyllic beaches nearby reveal their finery: Palombaggia, a glistening bay lined with immaculate white sand, or lagoon-coloured Santa Giulia, surrounded by pine trees. The magnificent Ospedale mountain offers breathtaking views of the bay and a refreshing pause.
13 October 2022 - Portoferraio, Elba
Arrival 13/10/2022 early morning
Departure 13/10/2022 mid afternoon
In the elbow of a creek on the northern coastline of Elba Island, a small corner of paradise awaits in the form of Portoferraio. As you approach its coastlines, you will make out the powerful and majestic contours of its Medici fortresses. Napoleon Bonaparte spent many of his 300 days in exile here. The Palazzina dei Mulini, his first imperial residence, whose gardens offer outstanding views of the sea, is a must-see. Historical treasures are followed by another kind of treasure, namely white sand beaches, and equally tempting local specialities including gurguglione and rice with cuttlefish ink.
14 October 2022 - Nice
Arrival 14/10/2022 early morning
Disembarkation 14/10/2022 at 7:00 am
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
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 will 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, currently under restoration 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.
Enjoy some free time to browse around before commencing the return drive to Syracuse.
- Restoration works on the monuments of Noto (after damage suffered during the 1990 earthquake) are almost completed but access to church interiors might still be restricted. This excursion involves approximately 1.2 mile (2 km) of walking mostly over easy terrain, except for steps to enter churches. We recommend 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.
Total : €50
According to availability, price per passenger.
Archaeological site & Ortygia
Depart the pier by coach and drive to the archaeological area, which you will 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 will 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 – will be seen from outside during the walking tour.
Then, return to the port and your ship.
- This excursion involves approximately 1.5 miles (2,5 km) of walking over uneven terrain and cobble stones as well as steps. We recommend 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.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
Palermo & Monreale
From the pier, embark your coach for a scenic fifteen-minute drive through the main streets of Palermo passing by the Piazza Ruggero Settimo, Politeama Square, Massimo Opera House, and the Cathedral.
Located on a wide bay beneath the shadow of Mount Pellegrino, Palermo is a jewel in the crown of Sicily. In the 9th century, Palermo was famed for the wealth of its court and its universities. Today, it is an international famed city with modern day treasures and priceless ancient monuments of architecture and art.
Your stop will be made at the Palatine Chapel, the royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily located on the ground floor of the Palazzo Reale in Palermo, where you will enjoy a guided visit. The chapel was commissioned by Roger II of Sicily in 1132 to be built upon an older chapel (now the crypt) constructed around 1080. It took eight years to build it and many more to decorate it with mosaics and fine art.
Back on your coach, you will travel to Monreale, where you will visit its Cathedral, the Duomo.
The Cathedral of Monreale is one of the greatest extant examples of Norman architecture in the world. It was begun in 1174 by William II, and in 1182 the church, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan cathedral. The church is a national monument of Italy and one of the most important attractions of Sicily. You will also visit the Benedictine’s cloister; the courtyard is enclosed by an arcade supported by 216 sets of twin columns, each with a different design and richly decorated capitals.
After some free time for shopping, re-board your coach for the thirty-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 0.6 mile (1 km) of walking on flat streets with 90 steps to negotiate from the coach parking to the Monreale Cathedral. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Flash photography is not allowed inside the Palatine Chapel nor the Cathedral. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : €85
According to availability, price per passenger.
Palermo Panorama
From the pier, embark you coach for a scenic drive to Monte Pellegrino, which at 606 meters’ height, offers commanding views over the city of Palermo.
After a photo-stop continue towards the seaside resort town of Mondello. Before this beach front town started attracting the wealthy class of Palermo, it was a fishing village, and you can still see rainbow-coloured fishing boats bobbing in the harbour
After a brief stop and free time, travel to the centre of Palermo. Located on a wide bay beneath the shadow of Mount Pellegrino, Palermo is a jewel in the crown of Sicily. In the 9th century, Palermo was famed for the wealth of its court and its universities.
Today, it is an international famed city with modern day treasures and priceless ancient monuments of architecture and art.
Afterwards, re-board your coach for a scenic drive through Palermo. You will see the exterior of the Norman Palace, an extensive royal residence originally built by the Saracens, pass by the 12th century Cathedral which houses the tombs of Sicilian Kings together with remains of Santa Rosalia, and admire landmarks such as the Massimo Theatre, Felice Gate and popular Marina Square. Some photo-stops will be made en route.
- This tour is a panoramic tour with very few walking time. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €45
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cagliari & Nora
From the pier, board your coach and start a panoramic tour of Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia and the most important business city located on the south coast of the island, before reaching Nora.
The main gateway to Sardinia's beautiful coasts - the Costa Rei, Costa del Sud and Costa Smeralda, Cagliari boasts ornate Baroque architecture, a bustling shopping area and a mighty fort, the Bastione di San Remy, offering superb views from the battlements over the old town. Then, you will proceed to the panoramic point of Monte Urpino. From there, you will admire the beach of Poetto and Cagliari located on the opposite side.
Continue to the archaeological area of Nora, a one-hour drive. Nora lies on a promontory overlooked by a 16th century tower that stood against Saracen invaders.
You can admire the remains of the town; this was a commercial port founded by the Phoenicians with a double harbour, one side sheltered from the western wind and the other from the Mistral (northern wind). First a Carthaginian and then a Roman town, Nora declined and disappeared around the 3rd century apparently as the result of a disaster. Of the old town, you can still see remains of the Carthaginians warehouses, Roman buildings from the time of the Republic, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large baths with splendid mosaics and a theatre, almost intact, dating back to the time of the Empire.
The system of water supply and drainage is particularly interesting, with large underwater pipes; the mosaics with very fine tesserae illustrate geometric and ornate designs. The sea around Nora still covers part of the town which sunk during an earthquake.
Finally, board your coach for the 45-minute drive to Cagliari.
- This tour involves approximately 0.7 mile (1 km) of walking over uneven terrain with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
San Sperate, the Museum-village
From the pier, board your coach and start with a short panoramic drive of Cagliari. Your first stop will be made in front of the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria. Then you will continue to Monte Urpino from where you will enjoy a panoramic view over the capital of Sardinia.
Then, you will drive to San Sperate, a 30-minute drive. Situated just near Cagliari, San Sperate is one of the most important Sardinia agricultural centres. As many remains testify, San Sperate has a very ancient history. The famous “Maschera Ghignante” (sneering mask) has been found in 1976, during one of the first archaeological excavations.
In 1967, San Sperate became a Museum-village and it now hosts many works of important Italian and foreign artists, as well as cultural meetings, theatre exhibitions and festivals. The idea of making San Sperate a Museum-village was born in 1966 by Pinuccio Sciola, who painted all the walls in white on the occasion of the Corpus Christi feast and invited several artists to paint their work on the walls of the village.
You will meet your local guide and have a guided visit of the historical centre of the village, where you can admire a large number of “Murales” and sculptures meant to embellish the village. Your walking tour will also include the garden laboratory of the world-famous sculptor Pinuccio Sciola, who promoted the murals at San Sperate and created the sound stones, both an artistic creation and a musical instrument, unique in its kind.
After enjoying a Sardinian snack, you will board your coach and drive to Cagliari, a 30-minute drive.
- This tour involves approximately 2 miles (3 km) of walking over uneven terrain with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). This tour has limited capacity.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Western Elba
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Marciana Marina. Marciana Marina, which is wedged between the coast and the imposing steep slopes of Monte Capanne, is home to picturesque districts, small granite streets and pastel-coloured houses. At the entrance of the harbour is the Torre Saracena, an 11th-century tower. Upon your arrival, some free time will be allotted to explore the area at your leisure. Your guide will first give you a short historical and cultural introduction of this gem before letting you explore the town by yourself.
Then, you will board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Marina di Campo. On the way, you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive, passing by Chiessi, Fetovaia and Cavoli, including a photo stop.
Upon your arrival, you will visit Marina di Campo. This old fishing town is highlighted by approximately 1.2 miles (about 2 km) of pinewood-lined golden beaches, a beautiful promenade along the sea and splendid accommodations, making it among the most popular tourist centres on the island. You will then re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute drive back to the port.
- This excursion involves a moderate amount of walking in the villages. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porto Azzuro and Villa San Martino
From the pier, start your half-day tour around the island of Elba.
Board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Porto Azzurro. You will be able to discover the town with your guide but also on your own during some free time. Porto Azzurro is one of the most picturesque and relaxing seaside resorts on Elba. Situated along a deep inlet on the eastern side of the island, Porto Azzurro is dominated by the early 17th century star-shaped Fort of San Giacomo, or “Forte Longone”.
Re-board your coach for a 30-minute ride to the Villa San Martino, the former summer residence of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Although Napoleon’s exile on Elba was brief, he left behind a considerable cultural and historical heritage. To escape the summer heat, the Emperor Napoleon chose a summer residence amidst the woods of Colle San Martino. Originally a modest country farmhouse, it was remodeled into a larger residence. The furnishings of that time are interesting as is the Egyptian room with frescoes depicting Egypt’s countryside and false granite columns covered with hieroglyphics.
In 1851, after Napoleon’s death, Anatolio Demidoff, a Russian nobleman married to Mathilde Bonaparte, ordered the construction of the neoclassic style gallery which now hosts various Napoleonic memorabilia.
The park is home to many plants among which the Hackberry, which is said to have been planted by the Emperor himself.
Finally, you will return to your coach and drive back to your ship.
- This tour involves walking 1 mile (2 km) on flat and cobblestones streets, with a steep alley to reach the Villa San Martino. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The order of visits may be reversed.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Jacques-cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier combines the desire for adventure with five-star travel. A modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye, the first ever multisensorial lounge, offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
HALF DAY IN VALLETTA
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organizes your day time between airport and your port of embarkation.
Valletta
Meet at Malta Airport - Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign.
You will be greeted by our local English speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
Depart the airport accompanied by your local guide and drive to Valletta. You will first stop at a local café for tasting of Maltese nibbles before starting your half day visit.
You will visit the Grand Master’s palace which houses the offices of the President of Malta. Like most of the buildings in Valletta built by the knights of St John, the austere façade often hides a sea of riches inside. It was erected by Gerolamo Cassar between 1572 and 1580 to the order of Grand Master Jean de la Cassière. Its plain façade, 328 feet (100 metres) long, follows Cassar's mannerist style, with the characteristic corner quoins and the massive cornice surmounted with a high balustrade.
Afterward, you will go the Upper Barracca Gardens where you can admire Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. The upper Barracca Gardens date back to 1661 when it used to be a private Garden of the Knights.
Enjoy some free time before taking back your coach to 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
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.
Total : AU$120
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
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 will 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, currently under restoration 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.
Enjoy some free time to browse around before commencing the return drive to Syracuse.
- Restoration works on the monuments of Noto (after damage suffered during the 1990 earthquake) are almost completed but access to church interiors might still be restricted. This excursion involves approximately 1.2 mile (2 km) of walking mostly over easy terrain, except for steps to enter churches. We recommend 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.
Total : €50
According to availability, price per passenger.
Archaeological site & Ortygia
Depart the pier by coach and drive to the archaeological area, which you will 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 will 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 – will be seen from outside during the walking tour.
Then, return to the port and your ship.
- This excursion involves approximately 1.5 miles (2,5 km) of walking over uneven terrain and cobble stones as well as steps. We recommend 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.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
Palermo & Monreale
From the pier, embark your coach for a scenic fifteen-minute drive through the main streets of Palermo passing by the Piazza Ruggero Settimo, Politeama Square, Massimo Opera House, and the Cathedral.
Located on a wide bay beneath the shadow of Mount Pellegrino, Palermo is a jewel in the crown of Sicily. In the 9th century, Palermo was famed for the wealth of its court and its universities. Today, it is an international famed city with modern day treasures and priceless ancient monuments of architecture and art.
Your stop will be made at the Palatine Chapel, the royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily located on the ground floor of the Palazzo Reale in Palermo, where you will enjoy a guided visit. The chapel was commissioned by Roger II of Sicily in 1132 to be built upon an older chapel (now the crypt) constructed around 1080. It took eight years to build it and many more to decorate it with mosaics and fine art.
Back on your coach, you will travel to Monreale, where you will visit its Cathedral, the Duomo.
The Cathedral of Monreale is one of the greatest extant examples of Norman architecture in the world. It was begun in 1174 by William II, and in 1182 the church, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan cathedral. The church is a national monument of Italy and one of the most important attractions of Sicily. You will also visit the Benedictine’s cloister; the courtyard is enclosed by an arcade supported by 216 sets of twin columns, each with a different design and richly decorated capitals.
After some free time for shopping, re-board your coach for the thirty-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 0.6 mile (1 km) of walking on flat streets with 90 steps to negotiate from the coach parking to the Monreale Cathedral. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Flash photography is not allowed inside the Palatine Chapel nor the Cathedral. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : €85
According to availability, price per passenger.
Palermo Panorama
From the pier, embark you coach for a scenic drive to Monte Pellegrino, which at 606 meters’ height, offers commanding views over the city of Palermo.
After a photo-stop continue towards the seaside resort town of Mondello. Before this beach front town started attracting the wealthy class of Palermo, it was a fishing village, and you can still see rainbow-coloured fishing boats bobbing in the harbour
After a brief stop and free time, travel to the centre of Palermo. Located on a wide bay beneath the shadow of Mount Pellegrino, Palermo is a jewel in the crown of Sicily. In the 9th century, Palermo was famed for the wealth of its court and its universities.
Today, it is an international famed city with modern day treasures and priceless ancient monuments of architecture and art.
Afterwards, re-board your coach for a scenic drive through Palermo. You will see the exterior of the Norman Palace, an extensive royal residence originally built by the Saracens, pass by the 12th century Cathedral which houses the tombs of Sicilian Kings together with remains of Santa Rosalia, and admire landmarks such as the Massimo Theatre, Felice Gate and popular Marina Square. Some photo-stops will be made en route.
- This tour is a panoramic tour with very few walking time. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €45
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cagliari & Nora
From the pier, board your coach and start a panoramic tour of Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia and the most important business city located on the south coast of the island, before reaching Nora.
The main gateway to Sardinia's beautiful coasts - the Costa Rei, Costa del Sud and Costa Smeralda, Cagliari boasts ornate Baroque architecture, a bustling shopping area and a mighty fort, the Bastione di San Remy, offering superb views from the battlements over the old town. Then, you will proceed to the panoramic point of Monte Urpino. From there, you will admire the beach of Poetto and Cagliari located on the opposite side.
Continue to the archaeological area of Nora, a one-hour drive. Nora lies on a promontory overlooked by a 16th century tower that stood against Saracen invaders.
You can admire the remains of the town; this was a commercial port founded by the Phoenicians with a double harbour, one side sheltered from the western wind and the other from the Mistral (northern wind). First a Carthaginian and then a Roman town, Nora declined and disappeared around the 3rd century apparently as the result of a disaster. Of the old town, you can still see remains of the Carthaginians warehouses, Roman buildings from the time of the Republic, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large baths with splendid mosaics and a theatre, almost intact, dating back to the time of the Empire.
The system of water supply and drainage is particularly interesting, with large underwater pipes; the mosaics with very fine tesserae illustrate geometric and ornate designs. The sea around Nora still covers part of the town which sunk during an earthquake.
Finally, board your coach for the 45-minute drive to Cagliari.
- This tour involves approximately 0.7 mile (1 km) of walking over uneven terrain with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
San Sperate, the Museum-village
From the pier, board your coach and start with a short panoramic drive of Cagliari. Your first stop will be made in front of the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria. Then you will continue to Monte Urpino from where you will enjoy a panoramic view over the capital of Sardinia.
Then, you will drive to San Sperate, a 30-minute drive. Situated just near Cagliari, San Sperate is one of the most important Sardinia agricultural centres. As many remains testify, San Sperate has a very ancient history. The famous “Maschera Ghignante” (sneering mask) has been found in 1976, during one of the first archaeological excavations.
In 1967, San Sperate became a Museum-village and it now hosts many works of important Italian and foreign artists, as well as cultural meetings, theatre exhibitions and festivals. The idea of making San Sperate a Museum-village was born in 1966 by Pinuccio Sciola, who painted all the walls in white on the occasion of the Corpus Christi feast and invited several artists to paint their work on the walls of the village.
You will meet your local guide and have a guided visit of the historical centre of the village, where you can admire a large number of “Murales” and sculptures meant to embellish the village. Your walking tour will also include the garden laboratory of the world-famous sculptor Pinuccio Sciola, who promoted the murals at San Sperate and created the sound stones, both an artistic creation and a musical instrument, unique in its kind.
After enjoying a Sardinian snack, you will board your coach and drive to Cagliari, a 30-minute drive.
- This tour involves approximately 2 miles (3 km) of walking over uneven terrain with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). This tour has limited capacity.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Western Elba
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Marciana Marina. Marciana Marina, which is wedged between the coast and the imposing steep slopes of Monte Capanne, is home to picturesque districts, small granite streets and pastel-coloured houses. At the entrance of the harbour is the Torre Saracena, an 11th-century tower. Upon your arrival, some free time will be allotted to explore the area at your leisure. Your guide will first give you a short historical and cultural introduction of this gem before letting you explore the town by yourself.
Then, you will board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Marina di Campo. On the way, you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive, passing by Chiessi, Fetovaia and Cavoli, including a photo stop.
Upon your arrival, you will visit Marina di Campo. This old fishing town is highlighted by approximately 1.2 miles (about 2 km) of pinewood-lined golden beaches, a beautiful promenade along the sea and splendid accommodations, making it among the most popular tourist centres on the island. You will then re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute drive back to the port.
- This excursion involves a moderate amount of walking in the villages. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porto Azzuro and Villa San Martino
From the pier, start your half-day tour around the island of Elba.
Board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Porto Azzurro. You will be able to discover the town with your guide but also on your own during some free time. Porto Azzurro is one of the most picturesque and relaxing seaside resorts on Elba. Situated along a deep inlet on the eastern side of the island, Porto Azzurro is dominated by the early 17th century star-shaped Fort of San Giacomo, or “Forte Longone”.
Re-board your coach for a 30-minute ride to the Villa San Martino, the former summer residence of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Although Napoleon’s exile on Elba was brief, he left behind a considerable cultural and historical heritage. To escape the summer heat, the Emperor Napoleon chose a summer residence amidst the woods of Colle San Martino. Originally a modest country farmhouse, it was remodeled into a larger residence. The furnishings of that time are interesting as is the Egyptian room with frescoes depicting Egypt’s countryside and false granite columns covered with hieroglyphics.
In 1851, after Napoleon’s death, Anatolio Demidoff, a Russian nobleman married to Mathilde Bonaparte, ordered the construction of the neoclassic style gallery which now hosts various Napoleonic memorabilia.
The park is home to many plants among which the Hackberry, which is said to have been planted by the Emperor himself.
Finally, you will return to your coach and drive back to your ship.
- This tour involves walking 1 mile (2 km) on flat and cobblestones streets, with a steep alley to reach the Villa San Martino. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The order of visits may be reversed.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.