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Island Hopping in the Mediterranean
Valletta - Nice
Dates:
7/10/2022
to
14/10/2022
Other available dates
8
days
days
7
nights on board
nights on board
Starting from*
AU$5,820
Guest Speaker 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...
See detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
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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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Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Tromso
LE BOREAL
LE BOREAL
Flight Paris/Longyearbyen + transfers + flight Tromso/Paris
10 nights on board
Dates:
17/8/2022 to the 27/8/2022
17/8/2022 to the 27/8/2022
*Price is per person, double occupancy, is based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of cabin to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Dates
Departure
Arrival
Ships
Cruise code
Ponant Bonus
Prices from
4/5/2022 to 11/5/2022
Valletta
Nice
LE JACQUES CARTIER
X040522
10% Ponant Bonus
AU$6,180
Island Hopping in the Mediterranean
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Suite Grand Deluxe Deck 6
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
18/5/2022 to 25/5/2022
Valletta
Nice
LE JACQUES CARTIER
X180522
AU$6,810
Island Hopping in the Mediterranean
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Suite Grand Deluxe Deck 6
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
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Services provided
- Individually-controlled airconditioning
- Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating staterooms available (Children welcome)
- Minibar
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Video on demand
- Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
- Desk with stationery
- Safe
- Hermès® bath products
- Dressing table, bath robes, Hairdryer
- Direct line telephone
- 110V American (two flat pins) /220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 24hr room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi
Choose your stateroom category
Packing Checklist
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.
Advice
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.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
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 …
1 possible excursion
to this stopover
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.
1 possible excursion
to this stopover
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.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
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
3 h 30
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.
Price range:
More
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Archaeological site & Ortygia
4 h 00
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.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Taormina & the ancient theatre
4 h 30
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a 1-hour drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
- As this excursion involves a walk of around 1.5 miles (2 km) on rough terrain with several stairways. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious monuments (knees and shoulders covered).
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cagliari & Nora
4 h 00
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.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lavezzi islands by boat
4 h 15
From the pier, board your coach for the short drive to Bonifacio. Upon arrival, embark your local boat for a cruise along the coast of Bonifacio to enjoy a panoramic view of the citadel and upper town. The buildings atop the sheer limestone cliffs look as though they are about to topple into the sea.
You will start your exploration with the marine caves which are home to numerous birds including falcons, puffins and swifts. Exiting the harbour via the inlet, you will discover the ramparts which encircle the old city.
After passing the limestone cliffs, you will 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, a marine wildlife and plants sanctuary which make up one of Corsica's two marine reserves. These uninhabited barren islands of granite rock lie seven miles south-east of Bonifacio, seemingly adrift on a turquoise-emerald sea, whose colour varies with the sky.
You will enjoy one hour of free time to swim, to relax on the beach or to walk around. This island houses also numerous paths to discover different islets and coves. The island is home to several rare species of wild flowers, including the yellow horned poppy and white sea daffodil, and was declared a nature reserve in 1982.
On the way back, you will pass Cavallo Island and Pointe de Sperone, before cruising along the calanques and cliffs to the Bonifacio marina. Here, re-board your coach for the drive back to Porto Vecchio.
- This tour involves few walking times on uneven and dirty grounds with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Please note there are no toilets, bars or shady areas on these islands. Entrance to the Sdragonatu marine cave will depend on the weather conditions. A minimum of 25 participants is required to operate this excursion.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Salt marsh & wine tasting
3 h 15
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the salt marshes.
Porto-Vecchio, also named « city of salt », known twenty years of the great expansion of salt marshes between 1795 and 1815. The salines of Porto-Vecchio are the only ones existing in Corsica since that time. Prospering under the First Empire, the salt marshes produced up to 1,000 tonnes of salt per year, so 1/5 of the total consumption in Corsica. Salt marshes have not been in operation since the 2000s. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour to discover a little more about the history of Porto Vecchio and its salt trade.
Then, continue to Domaine Torraccia. Christian Imbert planted, more than 40 years ago, on granitic arenite oriented towards the South East, 43 hectares of vines, exclusively on noble plants with the aim to create a vineyard producing only great quality wine. Far from the trend of the moment, he planted typical varieties of Corsica, and began the battle for the recognition of Corsica AOC. He also created the UVA Corse (in 1972), gathering the best wine bottlers. Discover the domaine with your guide and enjoy a wine tasting of Torraccia production.
Finally, re-board your coach for the drive back to Porto Vecchio.
- This tour involves few walking times on uneven and dirty grounds with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
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.
Until 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, 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, the stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or your shore visits, this expert will be there to share his precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Before your cruise
During the cruise
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
According to availability, price per passenger.
Noto, Baroque town
3 h 30
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.
Price range:
More
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Archaeological site & Ortygia
4 h 00
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.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Taormina & the ancient theatre
4 h 30
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a 1-hour drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
- As this excursion involves a walk of around 1.5 miles (2 km) on rough terrain with several stairways. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious monuments (knees and shoulders covered).
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cagliari & Nora
4 h 00
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.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lavezzi islands by boat
4 h 15
From the pier, board your coach for the short drive to Bonifacio. Upon arrival, embark your local boat for a cruise along the coast of Bonifacio to enjoy a panoramic view of the citadel and upper town. The buildings atop the sheer limestone cliffs look as though they are about to topple into the sea.
You will start your exploration with the marine caves which are home to numerous birds including falcons, puffins and swifts. Exiting the harbour via the inlet, you will discover the ramparts which encircle the old city.
After passing the limestone cliffs, you will 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, a marine wildlife and plants sanctuary which make up one of Corsica's two marine reserves. These uninhabited barren islands of granite rock lie seven miles south-east of Bonifacio, seemingly adrift on a turquoise-emerald sea, whose colour varies with the sky.
You will enjoy one hour of free time to swim, to relax on the beach or to walk around. This island houses also numerous paths to discover different islets and coves. The island is home to several rare species of wild flowers, including the yellow horned poppy and white sea daffodil, and was declared a nature reserve in 1982.
On the way back, you will pass Cavallo Island and Pointe de Sperone, before cruising along the calanques and cliffs to the Bonifacio marina. Here, re-board your coach for the drive back to Porto Vecchio.
- This tour involves few walking times on uneven and dirty grounds with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Please note there are no toilets, bars or shady areas on these islands. Entrance to the Sdragonatu marine cave will depend on the weather conditions. A minimum of 25 participants is required to operate this excursion.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Salt marsh & wine tasting
3 h 15
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the salt marshes.
Porto-Vecchio, also named « city of salt », known twenty years of the great expansion of salt marshes between 1795 and 1815. The salines of Porto-Vecchio are the only ones existing in Corsica since that time. Prospering under the First Empire, the salt marshes produced up to 1,000 tonnes of salt per year, so 1/5 of the total consumption in Corsica. Salt marshes have not been in operation since the 2000s. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour to discover a little more about the history of Porto Vecchio and its salt trade.
Then, continue to Domaine Torraccia. Christian Imbert planted, more than 40 years ago, on granitic arenite oriented towards the South East, 43 hectares of vines, exclusively on noble plants with the aim to create a vineyard producing only great quality wine. Far from the trend of the moment, he planted typical varieties of Corsica, and began the battle for the recognition of Corsica AOC. He also created the UVA Corse (in 1972), gathering the best wine bottlers. Discover the domaine with your guide and enjoy a wine tasting of Torraccia production.
Finally, re-board your coach for the drive back to Porto Vecchio.
- This tour involves few walking times on uneven and dirty grounds with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.