Deluxe Stateroom
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Mediterranean Interlude
Naples - Valletta
Dates:
22/11/2025
to
27/11/2025
days
nights on board
As the cradle of ancient Greek, Roman and Phoenician civilisations, a link between peoples and a cultural crossroads, the Mediterranean embodies the fascinating encounter between East and West, where cultures have blended and intermingled for millennia. In the heart of autumn, during a 6-day journey, you will encounter the Sicilian, Tunisian, and Maltese shores, between ancient ruins, legendary stories, and stunning coastlines.
You will embark in Naples, one of the oldest cities in the world. This city, dominated by Mount Vesuvius, is home to Baroque churches, romantic squares and ancient palaces.
A cultural jewel of Sicily, Palermo is a splendid witness to three thousand years of history 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.
Then you will head towards Trapani. 750 metres (2,460 feet) up, perched on a high triangular plateau sloping down to the sea, this medieval city is a labyrinth of polished, paved narrow streets and alleyways with superb views over the Aegadian Islands and the valley.
Le Lapérouse resumes its journey to head for the Tunisian shores and capital, Tunis. Rome’s great rival, Ancient Carthage, is yours to discover as you visit its ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Then you head for Sicily and your next stop is Porto Empedocle, gateway to the fabled Greek temples of Agrigento, among the most captivating ruins in the entire Mediterranean.
Your cruise will come to an end in Valletta, former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.
Ref : ER221125
Your itinerary
Discovery of Sicily, the Tunisian and Maltese shores: a journey between fascinating millennia-old history and breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic center of Naples...
View 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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LE LYRIAL
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
LE CHAMPLAIN
26/5/2025 to the 3/6/2025
LE BOUGAINVILLE
10/6/2025 to the 18/6/2025
*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.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- 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:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, 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
- Discovery of Sicily, the Tunisian and Maltese shores: a journey between fascinating millennia-old history and breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic center of Naples (embarkation port), Palermo, Tunis, Valetta (disembarkation port).
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
22 November 2025 - Naples
Embarkation 22/11/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 22/11/2025 at 7:30 pm
More Italian than Italy itself, Naples is the capital of the beautiful region of Campania, and is an unusual city to say the least. Its gulf, dominated by Vesuvius, is one of the world’s marvels. Built by the Greeks and then occupied by the Romans, the city has retained the memory of antiquity, as Castell dell’Ovo illustrates. But Naples has another side to it with its hustle and bustle, narrow streets, clothes hung out to dry at windows, Caravaggio paintings on the walls of a church, and incessant rumour in an sleepless city. This is a head-spinning city to visit and savour: don’t forget to eat a slice of pizza Margherita.
23 November 2025 - Palermo, Sicily
Arrival 23/11/2025 mid morning
Departure 23/11/2025 evening
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.
24 November 2025 - Trapani, Sicily
Arrival 24/11/2025 early morning
Departure 24/11/2025 late afternoon
Bathed in the cobalt waters of the Tyrrhenian sea, Trapani is the former port of the Greek city of Erice, boasting a privileged natural position in western Sicily. As you wander through its little streets, you will discover a secular cultural heritage, bearing witness to the many influences of civilisations that came here: San Lorenzo Cathedral, Maria Santissima Annunziata sanctuary, the fountain of Triton. On the shaded restaurant terraces, savour some fresh fish from the morning’s catch. Or else you can opt for a seafood couscous, a culinary legacy from their Arab neighbours.
25 November 2025 - Tunis
Arrival 25/11/2025 early morning
Departure 25/11/2025 evening
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.
26 November 2025 - Porto Empedocle, Sicily
Arrival 26/11/2025 midday
Departure 26/11/2025 early evening
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.
27 November 2025 - Valletta
Arrival 27/11/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 27/11/2025 at 8:00 am
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.
Palermo & Monreale
Dive into the fascinating history of Palermo and Monreale, two emblematic Sicilian towns, and explore their unique cultural, religious and artistic heritage.
The adventure will begin in Palermo. Aboard your bus, you will discover its pretty and lively streets as well as its architecture, which lies at the crossroads of Byzantine, Arab and Normand influences, bearing witness to its multicultural past. You will visit the famous Palatine Chapel, a 12th-century masterpiece, located in the Norman Palace, today seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly. Its golden mosaics, its ornamental candelabra and its finely sculpted ceiling perfectly illustrate the Arab-Norman style that is so emblematic of Sicily.
You will then leave for Monreale, 8 kilometres (5 miles) from Palermo, to discover its cathedral, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Completed in 1174 by William the Good, it is considered to be the most beautiful Norman church in Italy. While the austere exterior is reminiscent of a fortress, the interior reveals splendid Byzantine mosaics, coloured marble and granite columns. You will then explore the cloister of the former Benedictine Monastery, where a majestic arcade supported by 216 decorated columns surrounds the courtyard. To finish your escapade, you will be able to visit Monreale by yourself.
• We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting the religious sites. This excursion, which includes steps and is on foot, is not recommended for persons with reduced mobility or in a wheelchair.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cefalù
From the pier, embark your coach and start your panoramic drive through the historical centre of Palermo, before reaching the coastal highway which will bring you to the charming fishing village of Cefalù.
Cefalù is a haven of tranquillity, a refuge and a sanctuary of religious inspiration. A city of facets, levels, and epochs. The name, which translated means "head", probably referring to the shape of the hill and huge rock crowned with an ancient castle, rising above the town, was given to the town by the Greeks. Cefalù's origins are surrounded in mystery.
Legend tells that Roger II, the well-known Norman sovereign of Sicily, in gratitude to God for sparing his life in a violent storm at sea, commissioned the building of a Cathedral at Cefalù, where he landed after the tempest.
Its characteristics, as well as its position, so close to the sea, make it something of a fortress from the outside as much as it is a church on the inside. The Cathedral was begun on a site in which Roman buildings had already existed. However, after unforeseen circumstances, and changes in construction plans, the original building was never finished. The remains of this building project are three roofs which testify to past ages and building techniques. Inside the cathedral, you will see the paintings and gold Byzantine mosaics the Cathedral is known for.
Continue your walking tour with a photo-stop at the medieval wash-house and the Osterio Magno. Per the tradition, it was built by Roger II as his mansion, but it probably dates from the 14th century. Traces of the medieval tower and decoration can be seen. Excavations held in the interior have showed the presence of ancient edifices and ceramics.
Before returning to the ship, a refreshment will be served and you will have some free time to explore Cefalù on your own and browse the quaint boutiques.
- This excursion involves approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) of walking mostly over cobble-stone streets with some 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).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Palermo market & Santa Caterina Church
Enjoy an escapade in the heart of authentic Palermo, to discover its bustling traditional market and its emblematic religious sites.
Your visit will begin with a panoramic bus tour of the city centre. The treasures of this Sicilian city will appear before your very eyes: the Palazzo dei Normanni, a relic marked by several civilisations; the cathedral built by the Anglo-Norman archbishop of Palermo in the 12th century; Porta Felice; Corso Vittorio Emanuele; Piazza Marina; the Garibaldi Gardens, and much more.
You will then stop off at the Al Capo market, a vibrant spot in Palermo where the lively atmosphere will immerse you in a whirlwind of colours, smells and flavours. Take time to browse the stalls in search of delicious produce, before continuing your discovery with a visit to St. Catherine's Church. Built between 1566 and 1596, this church stands out for its unique architecture blending different styles and periods, making it one of the richest in Palermo. You will also have the opportunity to explore the adjacent convent, discover the cells where the nuns once lived and, weather permitting, go up to the building's terrace for a spectacular view of the city.
- For this excursion, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. The sites are accessible to wheelchair users (with the exception of the convent and the terrace), but we recommend that you inform the on-board concierge service in advance to ensure that an adapted vehicle is available and to arrange for an escort on the tour. Appropriate clothing must be worn when entering religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Erice
From the pier, you will drive by coach to Erice, which is about half an hour away by road. Erice is a superb medieval village perched on a hill with spectacular views over the sea and Trapani.
Although this spot was occupied for millennia, it really developed in 831 with the arrival of the Arabs. In the Middle Ages, it reached its peak under the Normans. Called Monte San Giuliano until 1934, in Antiquity this place was dedicated to Venus and there are still traces of the ancient city walls. You will be stepping back in time to explore on foot this fascinating medieval city, with its fortress and watchtowers.
Erice still has former residences of Trapani’s wealthy families who would decamp here for the summer. Their influence can be seen in the city’s towers and fortifications and the English gardens.
After seeing the sights, you are free to wander around the streets at your leisure.
And finally, you will be given a panoramic tour of the salt flats and Trapani before boarding your ship.
- The visit of Erice is on foot and involves about 0.8 mile (1.2 km) of walking on cobblestones streets. We advise you to wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). Note that Erice is 2.300 feet (700 m) above sea level, so it may be cold and windy.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Segesta
From the pier, you will be taken by coach for the short drive to the town of Trapani, passing the Ligny Tower on the way, before heading to Segesta, an hour’s drive away (with photo stop) via Saline.
Called Egesta by the Greeks and Segesta by the Romans, it was one of the most advanced cities of the ancient Elymian civilisation along with Eryx (Erice) and Entella. The city was probably built between the 5th and 4th century BC, and lies on a wide plateau in a protected position between the two summits of Mount Barbaro. Today it is an important architectural site dating back to the Elmini people who originally came from Anatoly.
You will begin your tour at the Temple of Segesta, a Doric temple built from local limestone on a hill outside the ancient town. Its architecture is typical of the late 5th century. There is evidence to suggest that the temple was not completed, as the columns are unfluted and the substructure still has the bosses or nobs used for transport which should have been removed. You will then visit the theatre which dates back to the middle of the 3rd century and accommodated up to 3,000 spectators. It is on a slope at an altitude of 440 m overlooking the temple.
You will then return to the port at Trapani to board your ship.
- As this excursion involves 0.8 mile (1.2 km) of walking to Segesta on uneven ground, it is not recommended for people who have walking difficulty. The transfer to the theatre is by local shuttle bus that leaves every half hour. Expect some delay if there are a lot of people.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Marsala's delights
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive towards the "via del sale" (the salt road) with the famous "saline" and windmills, where a brief photo stop will be made. During the 1-hour coach ride, you will enjoy a panoramic view of Mozia Island. Due to its location near the coast, and its role as an important trade city, Mozia was one of the most important Phoenician and Carthaginian settlements in the Mediterranean area.
You will arrive in Marsala, situated on Cape Boeo, which is the westernmost point of the island. Upon your arrival, a brief walking tour will give you the opportunity to discover this ancient city, founded by the Phoenicians refugees after the destruction of Mozia by the hand of Dionysius I of Syracuse. The history of Marsala is multicultural indeed, as the region was subjugated by the Romans, the Vandals and the Byzantines. Then, when the city felt to the Muslims, they called it Marsa-Allah (Port of Allah). And, when the Normans took Marsala in the 1072, they rebuilt the castle and constructed churches and convents.
The town of Marsala is also famous for a dessert wine, that it is named after it. For this reason, your next stop will be made at a local winery, the “Cantine Florio”, where, after visiting the wine cellars, you will have the opportunity to taste the Sicilian specialties such as arancini (rice balls), Sicilian bread and pizza, cannoli, accompanied by different local wines including, the Marsala.
After this tasty experience, you will head to the "Torre di Ligny" one of the most beautiful panoramic points of the city. It is a massive quadrangular-plan tower built in 1671 by Prince di Ligny. From here, you will see the Egadi Islands and two little islands, "Lazzaretto" and "Torre della Colombaia".
You will finally re-board your coach and drive back to Trapani.
-
This excursion involves a minimum of 1,5 km of walking on uneven surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tasting is included in the tour. You will be able to make some purchases at the winery, credit cards are accepted. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Valley of the Temples and Casa Barbadoro
From the pier, embark your coach for the 30-minute drive to the Valley of the Temples.
The archaeological area known as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
From the entrance of the archaeological site, you will start your 1-hour and a half walking tour.
You will walk through the area surrounded by countryside covered by beautiful almond and olive trees, the guide will lead you among the most important monuments: Temple of Juno, Temple of Concord, Temple of Hercules and the famous Temple of Zeus (the largest temple of Greek antiquity).
At the end of the walk, enjoy a refreshment at Casa Barbadoro, inside the park. Casa Barbadoro will present you their project to enhance and promote the artistic, cultural, natural and agricultural heritage of the 1300 hectares of the Archeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples.
You will then visit the Museum of Agrigento, one of the most important archaeological museum in Sicily, containing impressive collections of Greek vases, coins, etc.
After the visit, you will board your coach and drive to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 1.8 mile (3 km) of walking over paved road and uneven paths with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance.
The Blue Eye, an underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
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.
Free solo supplement
FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TRANSFER FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE PIER
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Naples
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be directly transferred to the pier for embarkation. The duration of the transfer is approximately 30 minutes.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer from the airport to the port.
- Services of a local English-speaking hostess.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and hostess.
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration of the transfer may vary. 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$80
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Palermo & Monreale
Dive into the fascinating history of Palermo and Monreale, two emblematic Sicilian towns, and explore their unique cultural, religious and artistic heritage.
The adventure will begin in Palermo. Aboard your bus, you will discover its pretty and lively streets as well as its architecture, which lies at the crossroads of Byzantine, Arab and Normand influences, bearing witness to its multicultural past. You will visit the famous Palatine Chapel, a 12th-century masterpiece, located in the Norman Palace, today seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly. Its golden mosaics, its ornamental candelabra and its finely sculpted ceiling perfectly illustrate the Arab-Norman style that is so emblematic of Sicily.
You will then leave for Monreale, 8 kilometres (5 miles) from Palermo, to discover its cathedral, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Completed in 1174 by William the Good, it is considered to be the most beautiful Norman church in Italy. While the austere exterior is reminiscent of a fortress, the interior reveals splendid Byzantine mosaics, coloured marble and granite columns. You will then explore the cloister of the former Benedictine Monastery, where a majestic arcade supported by 216 decorated columns surrounds the courtyard. To finish your escapade, you will be able to visit Monreale by yourself.
• We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting the religious sites. This excursion, which includes steps and is on foot, is not recommended for persons with reduced mobility or in a wheelchair.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cefalù
From the pier, embark your coach and start your panoramic drive through the historical centre of Palermo, before reaching the coastal highway which will bring you to the charming fishing village of Cefalù.
Cefalù is a haven of tranquillity, a refuge and a sanctuary of religious inspiration. A city of facets, levels, and epochs. The name, which translated means "head", probably referring to the shape of the hill and huge rock crowned with an ancient castle, rising above the town, was given to the town by the Greeks. Cefalù's origins are surrounded in mystery.
Legend tells that Roger II, the well-known Norman sovereign of Sicily, in gratitude to God for sparing his life in a violent storm at sea, commissioned the building of a Cathedral at Cefalù, where he landed after the tempest.
Its characteristics, as well as its position, so close to the sea, make it something of a fortress from the outside as much as it is a church on the inside. The Cathedral was begun on a site in which Roman buildings had already existed. However, after unforeseen circumstances, and changes in construction plans, the original building was never finished. The remains of this building project are three roofs which testify to past ages and building techniques. Inside the cathedral, you will see the paintings and gold Byzantine mosaics the Cathedral is known for.
Continue your walking tour with a photo-stop at the medieval wash-house and the Osterio Magno. Per the tradition, it was built by Roger II as his mansion, but it probably dates from the 14th century. Traces of the medieval tower and decoration can be seen. Excavations held in the interior have showed the presence of ancient edifices and ceramics.
Before returning to the ship, a refreshment will be served and you will have some free time to explore Cefalù on your own and browse the quaint boutiques.
- This excursion involves approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) of walking mostly over cobble-stone streets with some 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).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Palermo market & Santa Caterina Church
Enjoy an escapade in the heart of authentic Palermo, to discover its bustling traditional market and its emblematic religious sites.
Your visit will begin with a panoramic bus tour of the city centre. The treasures of this Sicilian city will appear before your very eyes: the Palazzo dei Normanni, a relic marked by several civilisations; the cathedral built by the Anglo-Norman archbishop of Palermo in the 12th century; Porta Felice; Corso Vittorio Emanuele; Piazza Marina; the Garibaldi Gardens, and much more.
You will then stop off at the Al Capo market, a vibrant spot in Palermo where the lively atmosphere will immerse you in a whirlwind of colours, smells and flavours. Take time to browse the stalls in search of delicious produce, before continuing your discovery with a visit to St. Catherine's Church. Built between 1566 and 1596, this church stands out for its unique architecture blending different styles and periods, making it one of the richest in Palermo. You will also have the opportunity to explore the adjacent convent, discover the cells where the nuns once lived and, weather permitting, go up to the building's terrace for a spectacular view of the city.
- For this excursion, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. The sites are accessible to wheelchair users (with the exception of the convent and the terrace), but we recommend that you inform the on-board concierge service in advance to ensure that an adapted vehicle is available and to arrange for an escort on the tour. Appropriate clothing must be worn when entering religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Erice
From the pier, you will drive by coach to Erice, which is about half an hour away by road. Erice is a superb medieval village perched on a hill with spectacular views over the sea and Trapani.
Although this spot was occupied for millennia, it really developed in 831 with the arrival of the Arabs. In the Middle Ages, it reached its peak under the Normans. Called Monte San Giuliano until 1934, in Antiquity this place was dedicated to Venus and there are still traces of the ancient city walls. You will be stepping back in time to explore on foot this fascinating medieval city, with its fortress and watchtowers.
Erice still has former residences of Trapani’s wealthy families who would decamp here for the summer. Their influence can be seen in the city’s towers and fortifications and the English gardens.
After seeing the sights, you are free to wander around the streets at your leisure.
And finally, you will be given a panoramic tour of the salt flats and Trapani before boarding your ship.
- The visit of Erice is on foot and involves about 0.8 mile (1.2 km) of walking on cobblestones streets. We advise you to wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). Note that Erice is 2.300 feet (700 m) above sea level, so it may be cold and windy.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Segesta
From the pier, you will be taken by coach for the short drive to the town of Trapani, passing the Ligny Tower on the way, before heading to Segesta, an hour’s drive away (with photo stop) via Saline.
Called Egesta by the Greeks and Segesta by the Romans, it was one of the most advanced cities of the ancient Elymian civilisation along with Eryx (Erice) and Entella. The city was probably built between the 5th and 4th century BC, and lies on a wide plateau in a protected position between the two summits of Mount Barbaro. Today it is an important architectural site dating back to the Elmini people who originally came from Anatoly.
You will begin your tour at the Temple of Segesta, a Doric temple built from local limestone on a hill outside the ancient town. Its architecture is typical of the late 5th century. There is evidence to suggest that the temple was not completed, as the columns are unfluted and the substructure still has the bosses or nobs used for transport which should have been removed. You will then visit the theatre which dates back to the middle of the 3rd century and accommodated up to 3,000 spectators. It is on a slope at an altitude of 440 m overlooking the temple.
You will then return to the port at Trapani to board your ship.
- As this excursion involves 0.8 mile (1.2 km) of walking to Segesta on uneven ground, it is not recommended for people who have walking difficulty. The transfer to the theatre is by local shuttle bus that leaves every half hour. Expect some delay if there are a lot of people.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Marsala's delights
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive towards the "via del sale" (the salt road) with the famous "saline" and windmills, where a brief photo stop will be made. During the 1-hour coach ride, you will enjoy a panoramic view of Mozia Island. Due to its location near the coast, and its role as an important trade city, Mozia was one of the most important Phoenician and Carthaginian settlements in the Mediterranean area.
You will arrive in Marsala, situated on Cape Boeo, which is the westernmost point of the island. Upon your arrival, a brief walking tour will give you the opportunity to discover this ancient city, founded by the Phoenicians refugees after the destruction of Mozia by the hand of Dionysius I of Syracuse. The history of Marsala is multicultural indeed, as the region was subjugated by the Romans, the Vandals and the Byzantines. Then, when the city felt to the Muslims, they called it Marsa-Allah (Port of Allah). And, when the Normans took Marsala in the 1072, they rebuilt the castle and constructed churches and convents.
The town of Marsala is also famous for a dessert wine, that it is named after it. For this reason, your next stop will be made at a local winery, the “Cantine Florio”, where, after visiting the wine cellars, you will have the opportunity to taste the Sicilian specialties such as arancini (rice balls), Sicilian bread and pizza, cannoli, accompanied by different local wines including, the Marsala.
After this tasty experience, you will head to the "Torre di Ligny" one of the most beautiful panoramic points of the city. It is a massive quadrangular-plan tower built in 1671 by Prince di Ligny. From here, you will see the Egadi Islands and two little islands, "Lazzaretto" and "Torre della Colombaia".
You will finally re-board your coach and drive back to Trapani.
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This excursion involves a minimum of 1,5 km of walking on uneven surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tasting is included in the tour. You will be able to make some purchases at the winery, credit cards are accepted. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Valley of the Temples and Casa Barbadoro
From the pier, embark your coach for the 30-minute drive to the Valley of the Temples.
The archaeological area known as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
From the entrance of the archaeological site, you will start your 1-hour and a half walking tour.
You will walk through the area surrounded by countryside covered by beautiful almond and olive trees, the guide will lead you among the most important monuments: Temple of Juno, Temple of Concord, Temple of Hercules and the famous Temple of Zeus (the largest temple of Greek antiquity).
At the end of the walk, enjoy a refreshment at Casa Barbadoro, inside the park. Casa Barbadoro will present you their project to enhance and promote the artistic, cultural, natural and agricultural heritage of the 1300 hectares of the Archeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples.
You will then visit the Museum of Agrigento, one of the most important archaeological museum in Sicily, containing impressive collections of Greek vases, coins, etc.
After the visit, you will board your coach and drive to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 1.8 mile (3 km) of walking over paved road and uneven paths with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
VISIT OF MDINA AND PALAZZO PARISIO
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organizes your daytime between airport and embarkation port.
Valletta
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at pier by our local representative.
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.
Then, Mosta discovery, famous for its church and its spectacular dome inspired by the Pantheon, in Rome.
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.
Transfer to Malta Airport on time for the flight selected by PONANT.
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: This program may be subject to change depending on the day of disembarkation and the Ponant flight schedules. The Cathedral is closed on Sundays, and the visit will include Mosta Basilica instead. Palazzo Parisio is closed on Mondays; refreshments will be served at Casa Bernard.
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$290
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.