Guest of Honour 
Art & Museums 
Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
15% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
The artistic Adriatic and the Pinault Collection - Palazzo Grassi
Valletta - Venice
Dates:
17/6/2024
to
25/6/2024
Other available dates
days
nights on board
A cruise in partnership with the Pinault Collection - Palazzo Grassi and with featured guest Caroline Bourgeois, chief curator of the Pinault Collection, and Matthieu Humery, photography specialist and exhibition curator at the Pinault Collection.
During the cruise, enjoy fascinating lectures given by Pinault Collection experts. In Venice, the culmination of your journey, discover the contemporary art Biennale and benefit in particular from private visits of the Palazzo Grassi and the Punta della Dogana, accompanied by Pinault Collection experts.
Set sail to discover the cultural and artistic jewels of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas with PONANT. During this 9-day cruise, Le Bougainville will take you to Malta, Montenegro, Croatia and Italy.
Your ship will leave Valletta, the capital of Malta and former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta and set sail towards Sicily. Then, you will set sail for Syracuse, one of the most prestigious Sicilian cities, whose monuments are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage.
Next, you will visit the stunning Puglia region in Italy when the ship calls at Otranto. Do not miss a visit to Lecce: Its lavish baroque monuments have earned it the nickname “Florence of the South of Italy”.
You will then head to the aptly named “Pearl of the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by medieval ramparts, its terracotta-tiled roofs, its palaces, cloisters and fountains are bound to impress you and will plunge you into the heart of Croatian history.
Your ship will then set sail towards Montenegro, for an unforgettable cruise in the Bay of Kotor. This impressive gap between two mountain ranges is home to a veritable inland lake with a magical atmosphere; the medieval city of Kotor and its many historical monuments are its jewels.
You will first stop in Hvar, the most famous and attractive of the Adriatic islands. Ringed by ramparts, the town has many remarkable monuments including its elegant cathedral, old arsenal and aristocratic palaces.
As a grand finale, your voyage will draw an end in Venice the Serenissima and its lagoon. Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal and the palaces along the canals will be your last stops on an unforgettable cruise.
Ref : EG170624
Your itinerary
With featured guest Caroline Bourgeois, chief curator of the Pinault Collection, and Matthieu Humery, photography specialist and exhibition curator at the Pinault Collection. A cruise in partnership with the...
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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
7/11/2023 to the 22/11/2023
LE LYRIAL
1/10/2023 to the 8/10/2023
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
6/2/2024 to the 3/3/2024
LE BORÉAL
7/7/2024 to the 20/7/2024
*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
- 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
- Dyptique 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
Caroline Bourgeois
Caroline Bourgeois is currently chief curator at the Pinault Collection.
Born in Switzerland in 1959, Caroline Bourgeois obtained a master's degree in psychoanalysis from the University of Paris in 1984. She was director of the Eric Franck Gallery in Switzerland from 1988 to 1993 and co-director of the Jennifer Flay Gallery from 1995 to 1997.
From 1998 to 2001, she developed contemporary art installations for projects in the Paris metro stations with numerous artists including Dominique Gonzalez-Foerster. In 1998, she was put in charge of the video department of François Pinault's collection. As part of this project, she built up a collection of international scope, making it possible to trace the history of the moving image through installations.
In Venice, she curated the exhibitions In Praise of Doubt (2011-2013), Prima Materia (2013-2014), in collaboration with Michael Govan, Slip of the Tongue (2015), in collaboration with Danh Vo, and Accrochage (2016) , Untitled with Muna Elfituri and Thomas Houseago (2019), Bruce Nauman with Carlos Basualdo (2021,2022), at the Punta Della Dogana, La Pelle with Luc Tuymans as well as Le Monde vous appartient (2011), Madame Fisscher (2012), Paroles des images (2012- 2013), L'Illusion des lumières (2014), Martial Raysse (2015) and Albert Oehlen. Cows by the Water (2018), La Pelle with Luc Tuymans (2019) and Marlene Dumas (2022) at Palazzo Grassi.
At the Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection (Paris), she curated Ouverture (2021) and Une seconde d'éternité (2022), followed by exhibitions of Charles Ray, Roni Horn and Felix Gonzalez Torres, Philippe Parreno, Anri Sala and Danh Vo in 2023.
Languages spoken : French and English
Photo credit : Courtesy Pinault Collection. © Irene de Rosen
Matthieu Humery
Matthieu Humery was born in Paris. He studied art history in Paris and Berlin before becoming Bob Wilson's assistant. He first worked for the Philips auction house in the decorative arts and photography departments before heading the same department at Christie's New York. Co-founder of the Los Angeles Dance Project (LADP), he encourages collaboration between dance and contemporary art with projects such as Murder Ballades with Sterling Ruby in 2013 and Reflexion Redux with Barbara Kruger (2017).
A specialist in photography and curator of the Pinault collection, he was notably behind the Irving Penn exhibition, Resonance, at Palazzo Grassi in Venice in 2014. In 2020, he was the main curator of the two exhibitions presented at Palazzo Grassi: Henri Cartier Bresson. Le Grand Jeu co-organised by the Bibliothèque nationale de France (presented at the BnF in 2021) and Youssef Nabil. Once Upon a Dream which will soon travel to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).
He also organised at the Parc des Ateliers - Fondation Luma in Arles Annie Leibovitz The Early Years: 1970 - 1983. Archive Project #1 in 2017 (subsequently exhibited at Hauser & Wirth in Los Angeles in 2019), Jean Prouvé, architecte des jours meilleurs in 2018 and James Barnor: Stories. The Portfolio 1947-1987 in 2022.
Most recently at the Bourse de Commerce, Matthieu Humery highlighted Nobuyoshi Araki's Shi Nikki series in 2021 and the work of Ukrainian photographer Boris Mikhailov the following year. He is the conductor of the major exhibition CHRONORAMA: Photographic Treasures of the 20th Century and Chronorama Redux, presented at Palazzo Grassi since March 2023.
Languages spoken : French and English
Photo credit : © Marie-Laure Dutel
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Caroline Bourgeois
Caroline Bourgeois is currently chief curator at the Pinault Collection.
Born in Switzerland in 1959, Caroline Bourgeois obtained a master's degree in psychoanalysis from the University of Paris in 1984. She was director of the Eric Franck Gallery in Switzerland from 1988 to 1993 and co-director of the Jennifer Flay Gallery from 1995 to 1997.
From 1998 to 2001, she developed contemporary art installations for projects in the Paris metro stations with numerous artists including Dominique Gonzalez-Foerster. In 1998, she was put in charge of the video department of François Pinault's collection. As part of this project, she built up a collection of international scope, making it possible to trace the history of the moving image through installations.
In Venice, she curated the exhibitions In Praise of Doubt (2011-2013), Prima Materia (2013-2014), in collaboration with Michael Govan, Slip of the Tongue (2015), in collaboration with Danh Vo, and Accrochage (2016) , Untitled with Muna Elfituri and Thomas Houseago (2019), Bruce Nauman with Carlos Basualdo (2021,2022), at the Punta Della Dogana, La Pelle with Luc Tuymans as well as Le Monde vous appartient (2011), Madame Fisscher (2012), Paroles des images (2012- 2013), L'Illusion des lumières (2014), Martial Raysse (2015) and Albert Oehlen. Cows by the Water (2018), La Pelle with Luc Tuymans (2019) and Marlene Dumas (2022) at Palazzo Grassi.
At the Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection (Paris), she curated Ouverture (2021) and Une seconde d'éternité (2022), followed by exhibitions of Charles Ray, Roni Horn and Felix Gonzalez Torres, Philippe Parreno, Anri Sala and Danh Vo in 2023.
Languages spoken : French and English
Photo credit : Courtesy Pinault Collection. © Irene de Rosen
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
Pinault Collection – Palazzo Grassi
In Venice, François Pinault’s modern & contemporary art collection is in constant dialogue with this city’s extraordinary cultural heritage, not only with artists and curators but also with the international art world.
An art lover, François Pinault is one of the world’s most important art collectors. Over the last 50 years he has assembled over 10,000 works, in particular of art from the 1960s to the present day. The foundations of his cultural project lie in his desire to share his passion for our era’s art with as many people as possible. This is reflected in his long-standing commitment to artists and the way he continues to explore new creative territories. Since 2006, François Pinault’s cultural project has focused on three key areas: museum activities; a programme of more regional exhibitions; and initiatives to support artists and promote art history.
Museum activities were first rolled out at two exceptional sites in Venice: Palazzo Grassi, inaugurated in 2006, and Punta della Dogana which opened in 2009, both restored by architect Tadao Ando. Today, displays of works from the Pinault Collection are regularly renewed in these two museums, with artists actively being involved with all exhibitions, and invited to create works in situ or to respond to specific commissions.
In 2021, the new Pinault Collection Museum opened in Paris in the Bourse de Commerce, with Tadao Ando again being entrusted with the architectural design side.
Outside of Venice and Paris, works from the Collection are regularly loaned to exhibitions all over the world. For example, they have been on show in Paris, Moscow, Lille, Essen and Stockholm.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- With featured guest Caroline Bourgeois, chief curator of the Pinault Collection, and Matthieu Humery, photography specialist and exhibition curator at the Pinault Collection.
- A cruise in partnership with the Pinault Collection with, as a grand finale in Venice, the discovery of the contemporary art Biennale and private visits of the Punta della Dogana and the Palazzo Grassi with an exceptional diner in its sumptuous atrium, in the company of Pinault Collection experts.
- During the cruise, fascinating lectures given by Pinault Collection experts.
- An amazing cruise through the cultural treasures of four countries: Malta, Montenegro, Croatia and Italy.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic centre of Valletta (embarkation port), the old towns of Dubrovnik and Kotor, the plain of Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, the lagoon of Venice (disembarkation port).
- Sicily with Syracuse port of call.
- From Otranto, the possibility of visiting Lecce, “the Florence of southern Italy”.
- Visit Kotor, Dubrovnik and Hvar, three unmissable spots in the Adriatic.
- The possibility of visiting Valletta (before your cruise)
Ports of Call & Excursions
17 June 2024 - Valletta
Embarkation 17/6/2024 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 17/6/2024 at 6:30 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.
18 June 2024 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 18/6/2024 early morning
Departure 18/6/2024 mid afternoon
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.
19 June 2024 - Otranto
Arrival 19/6/2024 midday
Departure 19/6/2024 early evening
Located in the Apulia region, Otrante is the easternmost transalpine town. Behind its medieval ramparts, you will taste the sweetlife of Salento, the “heel on Italy’s boot”. Inhabited since Antiquity, Otrante has today become a very pleasant seaside town. Yet its history is still visible as you meander through the little streets of its old centre. With its magnificent 12th century ornamental mosaic tiling, the Cathedral is one of its most beautiful treasures. During a stroll along the ramparts, you can sit and relax at a café terrace.
20 June 2024 - Dubrovnik
Arrival 20/6/2024 early morning
Departure 20/6/2024 late evening
Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon. The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.
21 June 2024 - Kotor
Arrival 21/6/2024 mid morning
Departure 21/6/2024 late afternoon
Situated in one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, the medieval city of Kotor is a small town full of charm, truly imbued with the traditions and stories of another time. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, this village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has preserved many historical monuments from this epoch. During your stop, be sure to admire the impressive castle that dominates the town, and let yourself fall under the charm of its maze of small streets and intimate squares on which folk festivals featuring magnificent colourful costumes are often organised.
22 June 2024 - Hvar
Arrival 22/6/2024 early morning
Departure 22/6/2024 early afternoon
Off the coast of Split, Hvar will surprise you by its traditions that have not changed since Antiquity. The country’s oldest town, Stari Grad, is here on this Dalmatian Island. The town nestles by a cove on the north-west coast, surrounded by dry stone wall structures on the Stari Grad plains. These have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site because they were built in the time of the Ancient Greeks. From these parcels of land come wines and olive oil manufactured manually. In the upper part of town, it is possible to discover hams and cheeses made by local producers.
23 June 2024 25 June 2024 - Venice
Arrival 23/6/2024 late morning
Disembarkation 25/6/2024 at 8:00 am
Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.
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 : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
A refreshment will be offered at a local bar and then you will 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 : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Meet M. Mauceri, the puppeteer
From the pier, you will meet with your guide and start your walking tour through the Old Town of Syracusa, whose narrow streets are lined by old, Baroque-style houses with charming balconies. You will enjoy a photo stop at the Cathedral Square where the Baroque-style Cathedral can be seen (outside visit only), erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva.
You will continue your walking tour through the narrow streets in the heart of the historic center towards the artisan workshop of Daniel Mauceri, a famous pupeteer. Daniel, together with his family, carries-on the ancient tradition of the Opera dei Pupi.
In 2021 Daniel Mauceri was selected by the Michelangelo Foundation to be included in the Homo Faber Guide, which contains the best international artisan excellence. His private collection represents the fruit of years of hard work by the Vaccaro Mauceri family. Upon your arrival, Daniel will explains all the processing stages for the creation of a Sicilian puppet and will show you how to move it during a show.
Finally, you will walk back to your ship.
-
This tour involves 1,3 miles (2,5 kms) of walking on mainly flat but cobblestoned floor with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and shoes. This visit is limited to 15 participants. Being an immersive tour, relying on a single artisan availabilty, please note that in case of force majeure, the tour might be cancelled without prior notice.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lecce - Florence of southern Italy
The city of Lecce has earned itself various epithets thanks to its beauty and its historical and architectural treasures: in fact, it is usually referred to as “the Florence of Southern Italy” or “open-air museum” for the abundance of churches and noble palaces, made more elegant and refined by the unique and sumptuous decorations realized with the “leccese stone”, a particular stone whose colour gets the same nuance as honey under the rays of the sun.
Set in the very heart of the Salento region, called “the Heel of Italy’s boot”, Lecce dates back to Roman times: in fact, you can still admire in Piazza St. Oronzo the Roman Amphitheatre (from outside) which dates back to the second century A.D. and could hold up to 20,000 spectators. In it gladiators used to face and fight against wild animals.
From Otranto, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Lecce where your walking tour of the old town will start. Walk the centre of town with your guide to discover a remarkable architectural style known as the “Barocco Leccese”. From the 16th to the 18th century, Lecce knew a period of great splendour during which it was embellished with Rococo’ and Baroque Monuments. The local finely grained limestone was particularly easy to work, making easy the creation of a very decorative style, with delicate details, which you will recognize immediately.
During the tour you will visit Santa Croce Basilica (only outside visit), which is sumptuously decorated, without being overbearing: close to it you can admire the impressive façade of the Governor’s Palace (the former monastery of the Celestine monks). Your tour cannot end without a visit of what is considered one of the finest squares in Southern Italy: Piazza Duomo, where the Cathedral as well as the Archbishop’s Palace are located. Following your visits, you will enjoy a nice local break tasting Apulian wine and local delicacies.
Some free time will allow you to wander at leisure for shopping before returning to Otranto and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 1.3 miles (2 km) of walking, mainly over uneven and cobblestone streets. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The inside visit of the Basilica is not permitted on Sundays due to religious services. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Tasting is included in your tour.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Boat tour along the Apulian coast
From the pier, board your coach for the 45-minute drive to the port of Castro Marina, a nice village located on the very heel of Italy's boot, from where you will embark on a local boat for your 2-hour scenic cruise along the Apulian coastline.
You will see the most important and well-known caves located along this part of the Italian coast between Castro Marina and Santa Cesarea named Azzurra, Palombara, Zinzulusa, Romanelli, Streghe and Solfatara.
You will have the opportunity to visit two of the caves by boat, the Azzurra Cave, with its extraordinary plays of lights and the Zinzulusa Cave, with its impressive entrance, full of history and legends. Sea conditions permitting, two stops are foreseen for a relaxing swim.
Following a refreshment and local snacks onboard the boat, it will be time to return to reboard your coach for the transfer back to the pier and your ship.
- You must negotiate an inclined path from the bus parking to the boat embarkation point and negotiate some steps in and out the boat. Summer in Apulia is extremely hot, we recommend you protect yourself from the sun. If you intend to swim, we recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes and have non-slippery closed bathing shoes (you can also bring snorkeling gear from the ship). There is a ladder to get in/out of the water for swimming. There is no toilet on board the boat. A comfort stop can be made at the local bar in Castro Marina before or after the boat tour (a coffee or drink is appreciated by the bar staff at your expenses). A minimum of 20 participants is required to confirm this tour.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Art & Museums
The Louvre, custodian of humanity’s most beautiful treasures, the Guimet National Museum of Asian Arts, the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac which shines a spotlight on the cultures of four continents, or the famous auction house Christie’s do us the honour of sharing their knowledge and expertise during itineraries designed together. During lectures, private visits or informal conversations on board, lovers of art and culture will have the privilege of rubbing shoulders with eminent specialists in the civilisations visited.
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
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 : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
A refreshment will be offered at a local bar and then you will 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 : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Meet M. Mauceri, the puppeteer
From the pier, you will meet with your guide and start your walking tour through the Old Town of Syracusa, whose narrow streets are lined by old, Baroque-style houses with charming balconies. You will enjoy a photo stop at the Cathedral Square where the Baroque-style Cathedral can be seen (outside visit only), erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva.
You will continue your walking tour through the narrow streets in the heart of the historic center towards the artisan workshop of Daniel Mauceri, a famous pupeteer. Daniel, together with his family, carries-on the ancient tradition of the Opera dei Pupi.
In 2021 Daniel Mauceri was selected by the Michelangelo Foundation to be included in the Homo Faber Guide, which contains the best international artisan excellence. His private collection represents the fruit of years of hard work by the Vaccaro Mauceri family. Upon your arrival, Daniel will explains all the processing stages for the creation of a Sicilian puppet and will show you how to move it during a show.
Finally, you will walk back to your ship.
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This tour involves 1,3 miles (2,5 kms) of walking on mainly flat but cobblestoned floor with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and shoes. This visit is limited to 15 participants. Being an immersive tour, relying on a single artisan availabilty, please note that in case of force majeure, the tour might be cancelled without prior notice.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lecce - Florence of southern Italy
The city of Lecce has earned itself various epithets thanks to its beauty and its historical and architectural treasures: in fact, it is usually referred to as “the Florence of Southern Italy” or “open-air museum” for the abundance of churches and noble palaces, made more elegant and refined by the unique and sumptuous decorations realized with the “leccese stone”, a particular stone whose colour gets the same nuance as honey under the rays of the sun.
Set in the very heart of the Salento region, called “the Heel of Italy’s boot”, Lecce dates back to Roman times: in fact, you can still admire in Piazza St. Oronzo the Roman Amphitheatre (from outside) which dates back to the second century A.D. and could hold up to 20,000 spectators. In it gladiators used to face and fight against wild animals.
From Otranto, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Lecce where your walking tour of the old town will start. Walk the centre of town with your guide to discover a remarkable architectural style known as the “Barocco Leccese”. From the 16th to the 18th century, Lecce knew a period of great splendour during which it was embellished with Rococo’ and Baroque Monuments. The local finely grained limestone was particularly easy to work, making easy the creation of a very decorative style, with delicate details, which you will recognize immediately.
During the tour you will visit Santa Croce Basilica (only outside visit), which is sumptuously decorated, without being overbearing: close to it you can admire the impressive façade of the Governor’s Palace (the former monastery of the Celestine monks). Your tour cannot end without a visit of what is considered one of the finest squares in Southern Italy: Piazza Duomo, where the Cathedral as well as the Archbishop’s Palace are located. Following your visits, you will enjoy a nice local break tasting Apulian wine and local delicacies.
Some free time will allow you to wander at leisure for shopping before returning to Otranto and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 1.3 miles (2 km) of walking, mainly over uneven and cobblestone streets. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The inside visit of the Basilica is not permitted on Sundays due to religious services. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Tasting is included in your tour.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Boat tour along the Apulian coast
From the pier, board your coach for the 45-minute drive to the port of Castro Marina, a nice village located on the very heel of Italy's boot, from where you will embark on a local boat for your 2-hour scenic cruise along the Apulian coastline.
You will see the most important and well-known caves located along this part of the Italian coast between Castro Marina and Santa Cesarea named Azzurra, Palombara, Zinzulusa, Romanelli, Streghe and Solfatara.
You will have the opportunity to visit two of the caves by boat, the Azzurra Cave, with its extraordinary plays of lights and the Zinzulusa Cave, with its impressive entrance, full of history and legends. Sea conditions permitting, two stops are foreseen for a relaxing swim.
Following a refreshment and local snacks onboard the boat, it will be time to return to reboard your coach for the transfer back to the pier and your ship.
- You must negotiate an inclined path from the bus parking to the boat embarkation point and negotiate some steps in and out the boat. Summer in Apulia is extremely hot, we recommend you protect yourself from the sun. If you intend to swim, we recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes and have non-slippery closed bathing shoes (you can also bring snorkeling gear from the ship). There is a ladder to get in/out of the water for swimming. There is no toilet on board the boat. A comfort stop can be made at the local bar in Castro Marina before or after the boat tour (a coffee or drink is appreciated by the bar staff at your expenses). A minimum of 20 participants is required to confirm this tour.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.