Superior Stateroom Deck 3
21 m²
3
- Last staterooms
Along the Mediterranean Sea with the Mucem
Athens - Lisbon
Dates:
10/10/2024
to
21/10/2024
days
nights on board
In partnership with the Mucem and with featured guest Vincent Giovannoni.
Sail the waters of the Mediterranean and dive into centuries of history with the perspective of Vincent Giovannoni, art anthropologist and chief curator of the Mucem. During a 12-day cruise aboard L’Austral, you will be amazed by the Mediterranean and its civilisations, a crossroads of exchange and a territory of divisions, the cradle of a unique way of life weaved together from fascinating cultures.
You will board in Athens, the mythical city dominated by the Acropolis and its monuments that form the most extraordinary architectural and artistic collection bequeathed by Ancient Greece to the rest of the world.
You will cross the emblematic Corinth Canal to arrive in Itea. On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, our on-board expert will recount the history of the legendary archaeological site of Delphi.
It will now be time to set sail towards Sicily and flamboyant Palermo. Historic sites such as the 12th-century cathedral or the Teatro Massimo opera house, one of the largest in Europe, blend with a uniquely bustling atmosphere.
Your exploration of the Mediterranean islands will continue as you discover 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.
Your cruise will then stop in the Balearic Islands on the well-preserved island of Menorca. Mahon, the island’s capital, will charm you with its age-old history and its exceptional port, which, at 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) long, is the biggest in the Mediterranean! A little further on, Ibiza, the “White Island” will enchant you with its wild coves and villages of white fincas, a natural beauty that has earned the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Roman ruins and sumptuous scenery of Cartagena will welcome you before your departure for Malaga, the lively capital of the Costa del Sol. Next will be Cadiz, one of the country’s oldest towns, built on a rock, combining its Mediterranean influences with its opening onto the tumultuous Atlantic Ocean.
Your cruise will come to an end in Lisbon, sitting on the Tagus River, distilling its one-of-a-kind charm imbued with rich history.
Ref : AU101024
Your itinerary
A cruise in partnership with the Mucem, with featured guest Vincent Giovannoni, art anthropologist and chief curator of the museum. An exceptional cruise between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean to...
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Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Superior Stateroom Deck 3
(21 m²)
Fully booked
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
(18 m²)
Fully booked
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
(18 m²)
Fully booked
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
(18 m²)
Fully booked
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
(18 m²)
From 8.420 € per person
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
(27 m²)
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 5
(37 m²)
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 6
(37 m²)
Fully booked
Owner's Suite Deck 6
(45 m²)
Fully booked
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE LYRIAL
03/03/2025 to the 21/03/2025
L'AUSTRAL
28/02/2025 to the 15/03/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
04/01/2025 to the 19/01/2025
*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
- 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)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Vincent Giovannoni
Vincent Giovannoni is an Art Anthropologist. He defended a PhD thesis focused on the small scale fisheries in the Mediterranean. For the European Commission, he conducted researches (Anthropology and Comparative Law) on the fisheries organization in the western Mediterranean (Spain, France, Italy). Thereafter, he worked during more than fifteen years as ethnologist for the French Ministry of Culture (in metropolitan France and overseas, in the Indian Ocean). After some missions in West Africa, he has been director of the Saint-Louis' French Cultural Center, at the mouth of the Senegal River. He’s now chief curator at the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (Mucem). In 2017, he curated at the Mucem the exhibition "Seafaring adventurers. Mediterranean - Indian Ocean. 7th - 17th century".
Spoken language: French, English
photo credit: ©Laurent Garbit
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
MUCEM
Occupying a unique site at the entrance of the Old Port of Marseille, with a modern building designed by Rudy Ricciotti and Roland Carta, and a historic monument, Fort Saint-Jean, the Mucem hosts major thematic exhibitions and many appointments to destination for all : meetings and debates, cinemas, concerts, shows young audiences…
National museum, it talks about the cultural, social, scientific and political proliferation of the Mediterranean world from prehistory to the present day. All disciplines cross paths : anthropology, history, archeology, history of art and contemporary art…
Thought as a cultural city in the heart of the Phocaean city, the Mucem has been a success story : more than 6,700,000 visitors since its opening. Its exhibitions have been praised for their quality and the programmed events, conferences, concerts, screenings, sometimes held in the open air, have been a great success with a wide variety of audiences.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A cruise in partnership with the Mucem, with featured guest Vincent Giovannoni, art anthropologist and chief curator of the museum.
- An exceptional cruise between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean to discover four countries: Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Acropolis of Athens (your embarkation port), the sanctuary of Delphi (from Itea), Arab-Norman Palermo, Ibiza, the Alhambra of Granada from Málaga, the tower of Belem and the monastery of Jeronimos in Lisbon (disembarkation port).
- Crossing the Corinth Canal.
- Discover the Balearic Islands including Mahon and Ibiza.
- The Andalusian city of Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in the Western Mediterranean.
Ports of Call & Excursions
10 October 2024 - Athens
Embarkation 10/10/2024 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 10/10/2024 at 18:00
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
11 October 2024 - Crossing the Corinth Canal
Arrival 11/10/2024
Departure 11/10/2024
The Corinth Canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, turning the Peloponnese into an island as it separates the region from the Greek mainland. Inaugurated in 1893, the canal is a little over six kilometres long and enables merchant vessels and passenger to avoid a long 400-km detour around the peninsula. The two sides of the canal reach a height of approximately fifty metres. From the exterior decks, don’t miss this unique opportunity to watch the ship as it navigates along the narrow strip of water encased between tall, ochre cliffs. What an experience!
11 October 2024 - Itea
Arrival 11/10/2024 midday
Departure 11/10/2024 late afternoon
Tucked away in the Gulf of Corinth, this little port is situated in continental Greece, north-west of Athens. Take an easy stroll along the old cobblestone quays, while gazing at the summits encircling the Bay of Itea. We wouldn’t be surprised if you are tempted by a visit to the Delphi Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located on a plateau on the slope of Mount Parnassus, just ten kilometres from Itea. A listed UNESCO World Heritage site, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience whose ancient ruins are surrounded by steep mountains.
12 October 2024 - At sea
Arrival 12/10/2024
Departure 12/10/2024
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
13 October 2024 - Palermo, Sicily
Arrival 13/10/2024 early morning
Departure 13/10/2024 early 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.
14 October 2024 - Cagliari, Sardinia
Arrival 14/10/2024 early morning
Departure 14/10/2024 early 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.
15 October 2024 - Mahon, Balearic Islands
Arrival 15/10/2024 midday
Departure 15/10/2024 late afternoon
You will be welcomed by the colourful houses of Mahon, its narrow streets and pretty squares that appear as you stroll around this richly contrasting city. Mahon reveals its different neighbourhoods, alternating between monuments, villas and white buildings. Discover the Santa Maria church, a building of neo-gothic inspiration, rebuilt in the 18th Century. It is worth a visit to see its monumental organ with more than 3,000 pipes and four keyboards. Around the Carmen church you will find a local market, full of stands selling avarcas, typical Menorcan sandals originally made by peasants. Let yourself fall under the spell of this Mediterranean treasure.
16 October 2024 - Ibiza, Balearic Islands
Arrival 16/10/2024 early morning
Departure 16/10/2024 late afternoon
The emblematic island of the Balearics, “the white island” was a haven for European artistic bohemians from the 1930s and a paradise for hippies in search of authenticity in the 1960s. It has been a giant nightclub for gilded youth since the 1990s. Behind this fiesta economy, Ibiza has managed to preserve the charms of its wild coves and its villages of white fincas with flat roofs that inspired Le Corbusier. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its exemplary marine and coastal ecosystems but also thanks to the architectural vestiges of this former stronghold of the Mediterranean economy, from the Phoenicians up to the Renaissance.
17 October 2024 - Cartagena
Arrival 17/10/2024 early morning
Departure 17/10/2024 early afternoon
Surrounded by hills, the natural site of the Bay of Carthagena presided over the fate of this former fortress which has been home to the greatest European civilisations. Today, these Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Moorish and Christian influences form a rich architectural heritage. Its Roman theatre is one of the most significant and best conserved in Spain. You will also be able to cross the landscapes of vines and citrus groves stretching endlessly towards Murcia, to visit this dynamic regional capital.
18 October 2024 - Málaga
Arrival 18/10/2024 early morning
Departure 18/10/2024 late evening
A historical and festive town, Malaga is located in Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising out from the cypresses and maritime pines. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, you will go first to the courtly plaza de la Merced. A few streets back from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist, in the Buenavista palace.
19 October 2024 - Cadiz
Arrival 19/10/2024 early afternoon
Departure 19/10/2024 evening
Andalusia’s Cadiz is located on the Costa de la Luz, in the south-west of Spain. From the beaches of Cortadura, to the flamenco bars of Santa Maria, through the colourful streets of la Viña, you will be amazed by this city, which is both steeped in history and extremely festive. In the medieval El Pópulo district, you will stroll along covered passages in the narrow gaps between houses. You will also be able to mosey around the lush Mina square. The star of the show is the magnificent cathedral and its dome crowned with yellow porcelain, presiding above the Ocean.
20 October 2024 - At sea
Arrival 20/10/2024
Departure 20/10/2024
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
21 October 2024 - Lisbon
Arrival 21/10/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 21/10/2024 at 08:00
Portugal’s capital city located on the banks of the Tagus, only a few kilometres from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbour, impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Jeronimos monastery and Belem tower. The Alfama hillside is also worth visiting: known for its fado bars and its Moorish streets, this district is the oldest one of the city and one of the most typical. Not far from there, Chiado’s elegant streets are home to big fashion labels and are an invitation to a bit of of luxury shopping.
Sacred site of Delphi
On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Delphi site opens the doors to a sacred world, where each stone summons up the glorious past of Ancient Greece.
Take the Sacred Way, the route walked in the past by pilgrims and kings of Antiquity, and go on a timeless journey. Here, the history of Greece and its legends overflow from everything: the ruins and ancient monuments, but also from the surrounding nature, which is still stunning.
This will jump out at you as you stand before the Temple of Apollo. It was constructed around the 7th century BC by two legendary architects, Trophonios and Agamedes; today, only a few vestiges remain of this Doric monument, decorated at the time with shields captured from the Persians. However, the foundations and columns that are still present seem to find an echo of their grandeur in the surrounding mountains.
The same goes for the ruins of the Senate of Delphi, as well as the vestiges of the Oracle of Delphi, where thousands of pilgrims gathered to receive the oracle of Pythia, high priestess of Apollo. The ancient theatre is also worth visiting.
A stone’s throw away from the sanctuary of Apollo, you will also be able to discover the Delphi Museum’s exhibitions, which present objects found at the archaeological site over the past century or more. Vases, bronzes, sculptures, precious offerings made to Apollo by pilgrims, objects of gold and ivory found under the slabs of the Sacred Way... they all recount the history of one of the most emblematic sites in Antiquity.
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This excursion involves walking around 1.7 kilometres (around a mile) on uneven ground, with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 75 €
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.
Hosios Loukas and charming Arachova
Marvel at the beauty of the Byzantine monastery of Hosios Loukas and take to the heights in the streets of Arachova, a small town perched 1,000 metres (3,000 feet) up on the illustrious Mount Parnassus.
The fortified monastery of Hosios Loukas, near Delphi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most characteristic monuments of the second golden age of Byzantine art. Founded at the start of the 10th century by the hermit Saint Luke, it includes a central-plan church decorated with superb marble decor and admirable mosaics on a gold background. The main shrine is none other than the tomb of Saint Luke, originally situated in the crypt.
Your excursion will continue with a visit of Arachova. Built on the side of the mountain, this small town of 3,300 inhabitants is famous for its traditional stone houses spread out over the northern slopes of Mount Parnassus, between 800 and 1,100 metres up. As you explore its small streets on your own, allow yourself to be charmed by the hospitality of the inhabitants, the local handicrafts and the gastronomy. Indeed, the town is well-known for its wine and cheese, as well as for its homemade carpets and blankets.
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This excursion involves walking an hour on uneven surfaces and cobblestone streets with many staircases (approximately 50 steps to the Monastery). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 65 €
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 & Monreale
From the pier, embark your coach for a scenic fifteen-minute drive through the main streets of Palermo passing by the Piazza Ruggero Settimo, Politeama Square, and Massimo Opera House.
Located on a wide bay beneath the shadow of Mount Pellegrino, Palermo is a jewel in the crown of Sicily. In the 9th century, Palermo was famed for the wealth of its court and its universities. Today, it is an international famed city with modern day treasures and priceless ancient monuments of architecture and art.
Your stop will be made at the Palatine Chapel, the royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily located on the ground floor of the Palazzo Reale in Palermo, where you will enjoy a guided visit. The chapel was commissioned by Roger II of Sicily in 1132 to be built upon an older chapel (now the crypt) constructed around 1080. It took eight years to build it and many more to decorate it with mosaics and fine art.
Back on your coach, you will travel to Monreale, where you will visit its Cathedral, the Duomo.
The Cathedral of Monreale is one of the greatest extant examples of Norman architecture in the world. It was begun in 1174 by William II, and in 1182 the church, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan cathedral. The church is a national monument of Italy and one of the most important attractions of Sicily. You will also visit the Benedictine’s cloister; the courtyard is enclosed by an arcade supported by 216 sets of twin columns, each with a different design and richly decorated capitals.
After some free time for shopping, re-board your coach for the thirty-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 0.6 mile (1 km) of walking on flat streets with 90 steps to negotiate from the coach parking to the Monreale Cathedral. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Flash photography is not allowed inside the Palatine Chapel nor the Cathedral. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 100 €
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).
Total : 70 €
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.
Cagliari and the ancient Roman city of Nora
Discover Cagliari and the archaeological site of Nora, located on a promontory of the Capo di Pula peninsular.
Not just the gateway to Sardinia’s most beautiful coastlines – the Costa Rei, Costa del Sud and Costa Smeralda – Cagliari itself is also well worth a visit. Its rich baroque architecture and its lively districts are reminders of this island’s warm soul, while the Bastione di San Remy, a monumental fort perched on the old town, offers a stunning panorama.
In Nora, a former trading post founded by the Phoenicians, the vestiges of several civilisations offer a wonderful dive into the past. First Carthaginian, then Roman, Nora declined and disappeared around the 8th century. From the old town, you can still see, among many archaeological marvels, Carthaginian warehouses, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large thermal baths with splendid mosaics and an almost intact theatre, dating from Roman times.
The water-supply system is particularly interesting, with large underwater pipes: their mosaics and very fine tesserae form rich geometric patterns. The sea around Nora still covers the part of the town that sank during an earthquake, but the former piers can still be recognised. After the visit, you will have a snack in a local café.
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This excursion involves approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking on uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Total : 100 €
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.
San Sperate, the Museum-village
From the pier, board your coach and start with a short panoramic drive of Cagliari. Your first stop will be made in front of the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria. Then you will continue to Monte Urpino from where you will enjoy a panoramic view over the capital of Sardinia.
Then, you will drive to San Sperate, a 30-minute drive. Situated just near Cagliari, San Sperate is one of the most important Sardinia agricultural centres. As many remains testify, San Sperate has a very ancient history. The famous “Maschera Ghignante” (sneering mask) has been found in 1976, during one of the first archaeological excavations.
In 1967, San Sperate became a Museum-village and it now hosts many works of important Italian and foreign artists, as well as cultural meetings, theatre exhibitions and festivals. The idea of making San Sperate a Museum-village was born in 1966 by Pinuccio Sciola, who painted all the walls in white on the occasion of the Corpus Christi feast and invited several artists to paint their work on the walls of the village.
You will meet your local guide and have a guided visit of the historical centre of the village, where you can admire a large number of “Murales” and sculptures meant to embellish the village. Your walking tour will also include the garden laboratory of the world-famous sculptor Pinuccio Sciola, who promoted the murals at San Sperate and created the sound stones, both an artistic creation and a musical instrument, unique in its kind.
After enjoying a Sardinian snack, you will board your coach and drive to Cagliari, a 30-minute drive.
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This tour involves approximately 2 miles (3 km) of walking over uneven terrain with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). This tour has limited capacity.
Total : 110 €
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.
Discover Ciutadella
From the pier, board your coach for the 50-minute drive to the old capital of the island, Ciutadella. Founded by the Cartheginians, Ciutadella remained the capital of Menorca until 1772, and it remains the ecclesiastical capital to this day. Ciutadella has a rather grand air with many elegant historical buildings, churches and large squares. The old town is packed with impressive architecture, including a gothic cathedral and several palaces belonging to the noble families, some of which are open to the public.
Upon your arrival, you will be given a guided tour of the historic centre of town before enjoying some free time to wander the streets.
From here, you will head back towards Mahon and, en route, enjoy a photo stop at the beautiful Cala Galdana beach resort, set in a horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by pine clad cliffs. The drive will take you to the east and the small village of Mercadal in the centre of the island.
You will finally discover the magnificent Fornells Bay. The 45-minute drive back to the port of Mahon will take you through fertile farm land and the market garden area, which is on reclaimed land at the innermost part of the harbour.
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This tour involves 3 km (2 miles) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Guests must be in good physical conditions. Please note that if the call is on a Sunday, stores may be closed in Ciutadella.
Total : 50 €
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.
Menorca and talayotic culture
From the pier, embark your coach for the 20-minute drive to the prehistoric settlement of Torralba d’en Salord.
This site dates back to the Talaiotic Period, between 1 000 BC and Roman times. The Taula and its enclosures were used for worship and are the most spectacular remains of the island. Excavations and restoration started in 1973 and is a continuing work for the Balearic Islands Foundation, in conjunction with the University of Madrid. The Taula - which means table - was built from two large slabs of rock, one vertical and the other horizontal, magnificently fashioned to form a “T” shape. The enclosures are horseshoe shaped with side columns.
After your guided visit of the megalithic village, you will return to Mahon, where you will start your guided walking tour.
You will start at the main square and walk downhill back to the harbour, through the city centre. The walk through this attractive town will give you a glimpse of the different periods of the islands’ turbulent history, and of the many architectural styles reflecting the frequent changes of rule. The centre offers an interesting mix of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, wide open squares and grand historical buildings.
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This tour involves 3 km (2 miles) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 50 €
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.
Menorca Natural and cultural delights
Pristine nature, rich cultural heritage, a taste for epicureanism and lounging about: Menorca has it all. You can tell by visiting some of the island’s most beautiful sites, from villages to coves, with their stunning views.
A small corner of heaven in the Balearic Islands, for those who like discretion and relaxation, Menorca also has what it takes for fans of beautiful scenery, well-kept traditions and rural architecture. From Arenal d'en Castell, discover the fortresses of Arenal and Addaia, as well as pretty inlets and bucolic little ports like Cala Tirant with its Caribbean appearance, or the fishing village of Fornells.
From Monte Torro, the highest point on the island, you can discover all Menorca. There, the church, the convent, and a statue of the Virgin all watch over the infinite azure, the pine forests and the jagged shorelines that appear in the distance.
The final port of call of your excursion: Subaida. This family farm, renowned for its delicious cheeses and wines, perfectly embodies the epicurean spirit running through the island. Discover how they make them, then enjoy a tasting of local produce, perhaps the best way of understanding Menorca’s immense charm.
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This excursion involves approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking on flat, sometimes cobbled ground. We recommend you wear walking shoes, comfortable clothing and sun cream.
Total : 60 €
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.
Walking Dat Vila & sangria
Meet your guide at the pier and board your coach for a short trip to Ibiza's old town, Dalt Vila.
You will start by heading to the upper part of the town, the historic district of Dalt Vila. Here, you will discover breathtaking views that will leave you breathless. With your guide, you will wander along the steep cobbled streets and among the little houses on the rocks, stopping off at the 13th-century Cathedral of the Virgin of the Snows (Catedral de Santa Maria de la Neu de Vila d'Eivissa).
Experience the magic of Ibiza's old town. You will discover that the streets of Dalt Vila are narrow and cobbled, and surrounded by magnificent fortification walls dating back to the 16th century. King Philip II ordered the construction of these walls to protect the island from pirates and Ottoman attacks from the sea.
The Renaissance walls were declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1999.
You will reach a charming little square inside the walls where you can enjoy the atmosphere with a glass of refreshing sangria cava.
You will, then, continue your walk to the lively port area of La Marina, where you will have some free time before re-boarding your coach and returning to your ship.
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There is approximately 1 km of walking on uneven surfaces, as well as cobbled and gravel streets. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 120 €
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.
Ebiking in Ibiza
If you like cycling and want a convenient way to explore the island, electric bicycles will allow you to easily ride uneven terrain and move around in total comfort.
You will meet your guide and instructor on the pier and start your tour by taking a little boat from the port to Playa den Bossa Beach.
From the boat, you will admire the old town of Ibiza, Dalt Vila, and its magnificent fortification walls.
Upon your arrival, at Playa den Bossa, you will take your material and have a safety briefing before beginning your e-bike tour.
When you are ready, you will ride your e-bike to the Natural Park of Las Salinas. There, you will make a short stop to discover the history of the salt flats and if you are lucky you will be able to admire the flamingos who live there. These salt flats are a breathtaking spot in the Balearic Island. The park has incredible biodiversity in a truly magnificent setting.
You will continue to ride through the salt flats to the coast and enjoy some amazing views along the way.
You will continue on to the Las Salinas Beach (Platja Ses Salines) one of Ibiza's best-known and most popular resorts. It is a wide, sandy beach with warm, turquoise waters.
Then, it will be time to get back to Playa den Bossa, where you will leave your material. If weather and time permit, you will be able to get to the sea to refresh yourself.
Finally, you will embark the little boat which will take you back to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves km of riding over road and path, including uneven terrains. There is some walking involved. Guests should know how to ride a bike and be in good physical condition. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothes, bringing a little backpack with water, and depending on the weather, a light jacket, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Total : 150 €
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.
Northern Ibiza, between tranquil countryside and spectacular views
Discover the quiet villages and spectacular scenery of the northern part of the island.
First, you will walk around San Miguel, a typical village whose parish church was built at the top of a hill. You will then continue to San Juan Bautista, away from the tourist trail. The road towards Santa Eulalia and San Vicente, winding through the woods, is particularly pleasant. In Santa Eulalia, a favourite spot for painters since the time of Joaquin Sorolla, you will be able to walk at leisure on the promenade edged with cafés and restaurants. Finally, you will arrive back on the coast in the typically Ibizan village of San Carlos.
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This tour involves walking 2 km (1.2 miles) on uneven surfaces with some steps. We recommend that you wear casual and comfortable clothing.
Total : 45 €
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.
Authentic Ibiza: natural landscapes and tapas
During this excursion in the south of Ibiza, discover Las Salinas Natural Park, travel through picturesque villages where you will stop for tapas, and enjoy breathtaking views.
Your first port of call will be Las Salinas Natural Park, a natural reserve with rich biodiversity. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Balearic Islands’ must-see spots.
You will then continue towards Es Cubells, which is Ibiza’s southernmost village. Perched on a cliff, it offers commanding views over Formentera. The village has retained its charm thanks to its geographic situation and it is famous for its 19th-century white church. Your first tapas stop will be in one of the village’s bars.
Then you will glimpse Es Vedrà, a rock emerging from the waters of the southwestern coast. You will head inland towards Santa Gertrudis, a picturesque village with a lively square. This is where you will have your second tapas stop, in an emblematic local bar. Enjoy some free time at leisure to wander among the shops before heading back to your ship.
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This excursion involves around 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking on uneven and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. We recommend you wear weather-appropriate clothing and good walking shoes.
Total : 125 €
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.
Yoga in Ibiza, cultivate your body, mind and soul
Combine yoga and aloe vera for an experience all about well-being.
Start your day with a one-hour Hatha yoga class that will help you unwind and bring you inner peace. Relax and tune into your breath. The poses will help you to concentrate and refocus on yourself. After the session, you will visit a 100% environmentally-friendly aloe vera plantation and discover the plant’s many benefits. A number of Ecocert-certified products will be available for purchase.
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This excursion involves walking for 500 metres (0.3 miles) on sometimes uneven, rocky ground, plus some stairs. It is not accessible to persons in a wheelchair. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing.
Total : 180 €
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.
Santa Gertrudis and the Bibo Park Botanical Garden
Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere of Santa Gertrudis and discover the bio-tech botanical garden devoted to preserving the environment of the Pityusic Islands
Set in the heart of Ibiza, the village of Santa Gertrudis is a charming blend of tradition and modernity. Its central pedestrianised square is livened up by trendy cafés and restaurants that mingle harmoniously with Ibiza’s traditional establishments.
Enter the whitewashed church that bears witness to the village’s rich heritage and allow yourself to fall under the spell of the peace and quiet of the area. Explore the surrounding agricultural landscapes where sheep, goats and cows co-exist with the modern villas that edge the streets. Santa Gertrudis has long been a refuge for artists, sculptors and musicians - as is evidenced by the many galleries exhibiting work among the hanging hams.
Beyond Santa Gertrudis, discover Ibiza’s bio-tech botanical garden, a unique haven devoted to preserving the natural marvels of the Pityusic Islands. Walk around the park and immerse yourself in the microcosm of Ibiza and Formentera. Then retrace your steps through the saltwater lakes, river beds and mountain chains.
The biotechnologist Bartolo Planas has meticulously recreated up to seven Pityusic habitats, guaranteeing a faithful representation of their natural splendour. Discover the salt production process by observing sea water flowing into the crystallisation basins, like in salt marshes.
Dive into the heart of innovation and biotechnological development by exploring the areas devoted to growing microalgae and extracting atmospheric water. You will see how the microalgae absorb the carbon dioxide and release oxygen, thus helping to preserve the environment.
Finally, enjoy a typical local snack and raise a glass of cava to commemorate this extraordinary journey, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Ibiza's hinterland
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This excursion involves walking approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) on uneven surfaces with cobbles and gravel as well as some steps. It is not accessible to persons in a wheelchair. We advise you to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, a hat and sunglasses.
Total : 90 €
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.
Cartagena colourful market and tasting
In addition to its history and cultural influences, Cartagena also offers the chance to discover local flavors through its markets, especially the main one.
With your guide you will stroll from the pier, and you will be guided through the old center of Cartagena, where you will have a stop at the Market Hall.
The Murcia region produces some of the best fruit and vegetables in Spain. It is a vast agricultural area that has earned it the nickname "the orchard of Europe", and you will understand why every time you step into a store or visit a market in the region.
You will wander around and stop off at the various stalls, to admire and learn about the local produces: cheeses and charcuterie, smoked fish, fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, spices... all the colors and flavors will grab your attention. Your guide will take you to the best stalls (4 or 5) to sample local seasonal produce (depending on the season).
Then, you will have some free time to enjoy the area, before heading back to the pier and your ship.
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There is approximately 1,5 km of walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces. There are some steps to negotiate. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 50 €
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.
Discovering Murcia
Surrounded by a mountain range, the city of Murcia has Arabic origins and its existence is closely connected to the fertile plain along the River Segura. On Cardenal Belluga square, discover two of Murcia’s architectural jewels: the cathedral and the 18th-centrury Episcopal Palace, with its rococo façade.
On the road leading to Murcia, in the foothills of the Sierra de Carrascoy, you will observe the abrupt scenery of gorges and ravines. Then you will arrive in Murcia. This lively city, founded by the Moors in the 9th century and conquered by the Christians in the 13th century, possesses some architectural marvels, such as its famous cathedral. Located on Plaza Cardenal Belluga, near the Segura, it was constructed on the site of Murcia’s former great Aljama Mosque between the 9th and 18th centuries and it borrows from several architectural styles: Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Neoclassical.
You can then admire the colourful façade of the Episcopal Palace, before going to the Royal Casino, one of the city’s oldest buildings. Constructed in 1847, this building also borrows from different artistic styles. Although it is a private club, the ground floor is open to the public and hosts cultural events.
You will cross the Santo Domingo and Romeo squares and then stop to have a drink and eat tapas.
- This excursion involves walking around 3.5 kilometres (1.9 miles) on cobblestone streets with some steps to negotiate. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The order of visits may change.
Total : 70 €
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.
Horses of Spain
From the pier, embark your coach for a shorth drive to a beautiful Spanish finca, situated on the outskirts of Cartagena. Here, pure Spanish breed horses are bred and sent all over the world.
Upon arrival, visit the finca and learn more about Spanish horses and their natural environment. Dedicated staff will tell you about the horses breeding, livestock management and horse training. Observe a stampede of horses, a truly spectacular sight, while enjoying a local product tasting such as local wine and typical tapas.
Then, continue your visit of the finca before enjoying a short flamenco dance performed by a dancer and a horse.
Finally, get back to your coach for a short panoramic drive back to the pier.
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This tour involves walking 1 mile (1,5 km) on uneven and lawn ground and some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun, with a hat. The horse show is performed outside and flies are expected. To avoid flies, you should not put perfume or perfumed cosmetic. Please be aware that there are long periods of standing as a limited number of seats are available in the finca.
Total : 120 €
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.
Cartagena and Roman theater
This excursion is the best way to immerse yourself in the ancient Roman city “Carthagonova” and discover the different aspects of the inhabitants’ daily life at that time.
From the pier, meet your guide and start your walking tour of the heart of Cartagena, a city proud of its millennial past, above all the famous Second Punic War: the confrontation between the Carthaginians and Romans.
Start your tour visiting the Roman theatre, one of the most emblematic monuments of Cartagena. This theatre played an important role at the time of Ancient Rome and had a capacity for 6.000 people.
Continue to the Conception castle, boarding a panoramic lift to the roof terrace, an integral part of lovely Torres Park, located on one of the city’s five defensive hills, offering breath-taking city views.
Before returning to the ship, you will explore the Calle Mayor, Cartagena’s major commercial and pedestrian street where you will have the opportunity to admire landmarks such as the Gran Hotel and the Cervantes House and enjoy some free time.
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This excursion involves approximately 2 miles (3 km) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is limited to 90 participants. The order of the visits may vary.
Total : 40 €
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.
Old Málaga & Picasso museum
During this walking tour of Old Málaga, explore the wonderful art and architecture of the birthplace city of Picasso, and discover his art during a visit to the Picasso Museum.
From the pier, start your guided walking tour to the Picasso Museum. En route, take a stroll through the Old Town. Your first stop is Calle Larios, the main shopping street of Málaga. Next, cross the Plaza de la Constitución, walk along Calle Granada to the Plaza de la Merced. Here, discover Picasso's birthplace and an exhibition about the famous artist. Then proceed to the highlight of the tour, the Picasso Museum of Málaga, or "Museo Picasso Málaga".
The Picasso Museum is permanently housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, a 16th century historical building that is adorned with the Andalusian architecture of the day, along with a unique blend of Renaissance and Mudéjar elements.
Following your guided museum visit, proceed to the Bodega El Pimpi for some tapas accompanied by wine and enjoy some free time.
Finally, it will be time for you to walk back to the pier.
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This tour involves approximately 1,5 mile (2.5 km) of walking. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes.
Total : 60 €
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.
Málaga and the Pompidou Centre
This tour will take you to the Centre Pompidou Málaga, the first temporary installation of this Parisian art centre abroad. You will be immersed in modern and contemporary art.
After meeting your guide on the quay, you will board your bus for a scenic drive to Gibralfaro Castle, where you will stop for an outdoor tour of the grounds. Gibralfaro Castle (Castillo de Gibralfaro) is a historic fortress located on Mount Gibralfaro, overlooking the city of Málaga. It is located next to another emblematic monument, Málaga's Alcazaba. Its strategic position offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside.
You will then catch your bus back to Málaga's Pompidou Centre, a branch of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, France. The museum is located in the lively port district of Muelle Uno, close to Málaga's historic centre. It is dedicated to modern and contemporary art and presents a varied collection of works from the 20th and 21st centuries, in a wide range of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, video art and multimedia installations.
The museum's permanent collection includes over 80 works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dalí, Marc Chagall, Jackson Pollock and René Magritte. The collection represents various artistic movements, including cubism, surrealism, abstract expressionism and pop art.
After the tour, you will head to a local bar to enjoy a refreshing drink. Enjoy a drink and a tapa.
Finally, you will catch your bus back to your ship.
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This tour involves walking almost 1.5 miles (2 km) on uneven but relatively flat surfaces. We advise you to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 60 €
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.
A stroll with the Chef
Immerse yourself in Málaga's gastronomic culture. Learn how the most traditional Andalusian and Spanish dishes are prepared.
Meet your guide on the quay and board your bus for a short trip to Málaga city center.
After a panoramic tour of Málaga, the chef will accompany you to the Atarazanas market, one of the most famous markets in the whole of Málaga, where you will buy top-quality products under the guidance of professionals from the world of cooking. The Atarazanas market is known for its colorful stained-glass windows depicting scenes from Málaga's history, as well as for its wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and other local products.
The market is open from dawn to mid-afternoon. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who come to buy fresh ingredients and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
After this immersion, you will head to the charming Patio de Beatas restaurant, where you will be given the tools to transform yourself into an authentic Spanish chef. During this activity, you will learn how to prepare a delicious and flavorful sangria, tortilla and salmorejo, in the company of your chef.
Finally, you will return to your bus for the ride back to the dock and your ship.
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This tour involves 1.5 km of walking on uneven and relatively flat, paved surfaces. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing. The chef speaks English and Spanish only.
Total : 140 €
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.
Discover Málaga
On this tour, you will discover old Málaga and its impressive green space with its historic botanical garden.
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to the "La Concepción" Botanical Garden . The La Concepción estate belonged to the Marquises de Casa Loring between 1850 and 1990 before being purchased by Malaga City Council. Its owners created a park where they planted exotic species brought by their commercial fleet from Latin America, the Philippines and Australia. It's a romantic garden with winding paths, ponds, waterfalls and streams. It features lush semi-tropical vegetation, rubber plants, palm trees and Araucarias. The park is also famous for its cultural heritage: the Loringiano Museum, a small Doric church, and the wisteria-covered pergola close to the palace. Officially declared a Historical-Artistic Garden in 1943, it is now also recognised as a Site of Cultural Interest. A local guide will take you through the historic part of the garden and explain everything you need to know.
After this visit, you will return by coach to the city centre, where you will begin a walking tour through the old town. You will have an inside visit of the Cathedral of the Incarnation. The construction of the Cathedral wrapped up in the latter half of the 18th century, after over 250 years of work. It has its own gardens and a beautiful patio. The Cathedral is one of the major monuments of the Renaissance in Andalusia.
After this visit, you will return by coach to the city center, where you will begin a walking tour of the old town. This tour includes an interior visit to the Cathedral of the Incarnation. The cathedral is one of the city's most important monuments. By order of the Catholic Monarchs, work began on the cathedral in the first half of the 19th century. It has its own gardens and a beautiful patio. The cathedral is one of Andalusia's most important Renaissance monuments.
Continue your walk past the ruins of the Roman amphitheatre, church and cathedral.
Finally, you'll head to a local bar to enjoy a refreshing drink, before returning to your ship.
- This tour involves nearly 2 mile (3 km) of walking over paved streets with some steps. Expect uphill climbs at times. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The visit of the Roman Amphitheatre is only from the outside.
Total : 60 €
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.
Andalusian getaway in Mijas
During this day, you will fall in love with the white clad village of Mijas in the heart of Andalusia where you will enjoy a flamenco show.
From the pier, embark with your guide on your bus for a one-hour journey to one of the most Andalusian villages on the Costa del Sol, Mijas.
This white and pristine gem is nestled on the mountainside at an altitude of 428 metres, earning it the name "Mirador de la Costa del Sol" (Lookout of the Costa del Sol). This village is one of the most picturesque in the region. Your guide will lead you through its paved alleys, past beautiful small, whitewashed houses adorned with grilles and covered in bougainvillea and jasmine. Along the way, you will make your way to the upper terraces to enjoy the best views of the town, as well as the mountains of the Sierra de Mijas, the coast, and the sea. Then, you will head towards the city's most emblematic site, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rock (Santuario de la Virgen de la Peña), the patron saint of Mijas.
Afterwards, you will have some free time to stroll at your leisure through the maze of streets.
Then, you will rejoin your guide and head to an authentic restaurant. You will enjoy a typical meal accompanied by the vibrations of music and the colors of a flamenco show performed by professional dancers and musicians.
At the end of this delightful meal, it will be time to board your bus and return to the port.
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This excursion includes a nearly 2 miles (3 km) walk on uneven surfaces and paved streets, expect uphill climbs at times. There are a few steps to negotiate. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, as well as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Total : 140 €
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.
Tropical Málaga
On this tour, you will discover how tropical fruit is grown. Did you know that the Axarquía region is one of the largest tropical fruit-producing areas in Europe? On this tour, you will become an expert in the field. You will visit a family-run tropical plantation located in a rural area between Torrox and Vélez-Málaga.
Together with your guide, you will board your bus from the dock, for an hour-long journey to the rural part of the Málaga region.
Although the plantation is located in a rural area, it nevertheless faces the sea, and you will be surprised by the incredible views of the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Once you arrive at the tropical plantation, your host will take you on a guided tour of the different areas of the plantation, observing the different varieties of mango that are grown and learning all about their cultivation process. You will also see how avocados are grown, as well as other tropical and "rare" plants found in the tropical orchard.
After the guided tour, you will enjoy a "tropical" tasting. You will taste delicious mangoes, tasty avocados and other surprises depending on the season. After all, this is agriculture, and every fruit has its own season.
Finally, you will catch your bus for the return journey to the dock and your ship.
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This tour includes 1.5 km of walking on irregular, rather flat surfaces with cobblestones. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Total : 70 €
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.
Exclusive visit of the Alhambra by night
This excursion must be pre-booked. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed onboard based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour.
From the pier, board your coach and start your 2-hour scenic drive to the city of Granada which is lying at approximately 2,100 feet (650 m) above sea level, in the shadow of the mighty Sierra Nevada. The Moors stormed across the Strait of Gibraltar in the 8th century, and they were not driven out of Granada until 1492. During the intervening centuries, they brought a refined civilisation to the south of Spain; Granada, and particularly the Alhambra, represent the zenith of Moorish culture in this country.
On arrival, you will discover the old Albayzin Quarter, part of the UNESCO world heritage, from where you will enjoy a splendid view over to the Sierra Nevada, the Darro Valley, and the Alhambra itself.
After an early tapas dinner, enjoy an exclusive visit of the Alhambra by night.
You will visit the Generalife, the small summer palace with its attractive gardens. Walk along an avenue of stately cypress trees and be delighted at the sight of trim flower-beds and box hedges, myrtle bushes and, above all, fountains.
The Nazrid Palace, named after the last dynasty of Sultans which made important reformations, is one of the finest examples of Islamic Art. Although damaged and restored over the centuries, it is not difficult to picture the place as it was in all its glory 600 years ago. The ceilings drip with stalactites in stucco, and each room appears more richly decorated than the previous one. Marvel at the delicate marble columns, graceful arcades and fine craftsmanship in the Sultans' "paradise on earth". The Hall of the Ambassadors and the Court of the Lions are considered as the gems of this oriental jewel box. From its windows you can look back across to the old quarter of Albayzin and the gypsy haunts of Sacromonte.
Finally, you will return to your coach for a 2-hour transfer back to your ship.
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The drive from Málaga to Grenada takes 2 hours. This tour involves approximately 2.5 miles (3 km) of walking, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The Alhambra is privatised for PONANT's guests. This tour has limited capacity.
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.
Andalusian drive
This panoramic drive will take you into the heart of the province of Cadiz, to Medina-Sidonia, a history-laden town nestling between the mountains and the sea, then onto the villages of Vejer de la Frontera and Conil de la Frontera.
Discover one of Spain’s best-preserved hillside villages. It is as if time had kept this medieval village intact, with its cobbled streets, white buildings with tiled roofs scattered along the hills, its gothic church and its Moorish gate.
Along the road, you will come across one of the most prestigious herds of bulls, nestling in the decor of the historic town. Your guide will then take you into the countryside of the Route of the Bull (Ruta del Toro) to discover the region’s agriculture, including the surrounding olive groves. You will go through the village of Vejer de la Frontera, a white village perched above the sheer gorge of the Barbate River. Declared a Spanish national monument in 1978, this pretty village offers a perfect example of popular Arab-Andalusian architecture. You will continue your drive to Conil de la Frontera, a small town with narrow cobbled streets, boasting a superb beach. You will be able to make the most of it by visiting the historic monuments, taking a seat in one of the tapas bars, and buying souvenirs in the lively stores.
- The level of difficulty of this excursion is low. We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Total : 40 €
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.
Vejer de la Frontera and Cape Trafalgar
From the pier, embark your coach for a one-hour drive across the countryside, passing through the Natural Park of La Breña, a protected pine forest. You will go to Cape Trafalgar, the main site where the Battle of Trafalgar took place. Your guide will give you a brief explanation of the battle where Lord Nelson lost his life, and a short photo stop will be proposed.
Squeezed between the sierras and the sea, the classic white-washed village of Vejer de la Frontera is perched high above the steep gorge of the River Barbate. Declared as Historic-Artistic Site in 1976, and winner of the First National Embellishment Award in 1978, Vejer de la Frontera's most stunning feature is the Arab-Andalusian popular architecture.
During your walking tour on the cobblestoned streets, you will meander through secret corners, hidden patios and typical houses. Along your route, you will pass by Plaza de España, one of the prettiest village squares in Spain, where you can enjoy a refreshment and some free time before your return to the ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. It is necessary to be in good physical conditions.
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.
Cadiz Flamenco Show
From the pier, you will follow your guide, by foot to the tablao Flamenco La Cava, for an exciting performance of this powerful and energetic typical Spanish dance. Rhythmically tapping heels, clicking castanets, the traditional rascado flourishes of the guitar and the emotional voices of the singers blend to create a truly mesmerizing experience. During the show, enjoy typical tapas to be totally immersed in the local atmosphere.
After the show take a leisurely walk back to your ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 1,2 miles (1 km) of walking on mostly flat streets. The flamenco show lasts about 1 hour. Recording videos is prohibited in the flamenco tavern.
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.
Walking tour of Cadiz and the Cathedral
Follow your guide on a stroll through the old town of Cadiz, visiting the most emblematic squares and monuments.
With your guide, set off from the quay for a guided tour of Cadiz, the oldest city in Europe. The old town, with its Moorish appearance, is rife with intriguing narrow, cobbled streets that open onto small squares.
You will see the Plaza de San Juan de Dios, the town hall and the 18th-century Baroque and neoclassical cathedral.
The cathedral took 116 years to build, which explains the mixture of styles. Construction began in the Baroque style and was completed in the Neoclassical style. The interior features sculptures from the old cathedral. The towers and sacristy were built last, in the 19th century. The vaults of the high altar and the choir stalls are remarkable, although the latter did not come from the cathedral. The cathedral is topped by a golden brick dome, which gives it an impressive appearance. The brilliant Manuel de Falla is buried in the crypt.
Discover its interesting interior, including the museum that belongs to the cathedral and contains the cathedral treasury.
Next, you will head to the Plaza Flores, where you will have time to enjoy a tapa and a glass of wine in a local bar.
Finally, you will make your way to the Plaza de España, crossing the Plaza San Antonio and the Plaza Mina, before your walk takes you back to your ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 2.17 mile (3.5 km) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 40 €
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.
L'Austral
Innovative design, sleek shape and profile, refined interior decoration, friendly, intimate atmosphere: French designers and decorators have managed to give this ship a unique style and veritable signature of its own. Combinations of fine materials, colours and tones harmoniously livened up with touches of bright colour, elegant lines, discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambiance of a veritable private yacht.
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
10/10/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS (PRE) + A GLIMPSE OF LISBON & VISIT OF CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN MUSEUM (POST)
690 €
Find out more
08/10/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + A GLIMPSE OF LISBON & VISIT OF CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN MUSEUM (POST)
2.255 €
Find out more
10/10/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS (PRE) + ECOCHIC GETAWAY IN COMPORTA (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
2.645 €
Find out more
08/10/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + ECOCHIC GETAWAY IN COMPORTA (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
4.255 €
Find out morePANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO PIREUS PIER
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Athens
Meet at Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos - Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach for a scenic tour of Athens en route to the port of Piraeus.
When you will reach Athens, you will make your first stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, a 19th-century reconstruction on Roman foundations, in which the first modern Olympic Games took place. This stadium is also known as the Kallimármaro which means “the beautiful marbled” because it is the only major stadium in the world built entirely of white marble. It was also restored to host some competitions during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
You will enjoy a photo stop at the bottom of the Acropolis Hill with its spectacular view of the Parthenon before being transferred to the port of Piraeus where you will embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer by air-conditioned coach.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Note:
- Optional photo stops depending on embarkation time and traffic conditions.
Duration and order of the visits 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.
Total : 50 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Athens
Meet at Athens Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5*, perfectly located at Syntagma Square in the heart of Athens.
Official check-in at 15 :00.
Afternoon at leisure.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Athens
After breakfast, your walking guided visit will be first focus on Anafiotika district.
This picturesque old quarter is located under the Acropolis. This very typical architecture looks like to the Cycladic islands, with narrow streets and white-washed houses with colorful shutters.
You will learn more about its history with your guide. And you will have the perfect opportunity to take the most beautiful photos, through the lens of a professional photograph at your disposal to give you tips and help you..
Later, you will walk until a local tavern in the Plaka district and you will enjoy a traditional Greek lunch followed by a short time at leisure in Plaka.
During the afternoon, you will visit the Acropolis Museum, which is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. The museum was built in order to house every artifact found on the rock and at its foot, covering a large period of time from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. Nearly 4,000 objects are exhibited over an area of 14,000 square metres.
After the Museum visit, time at leisure to strool around the Museum area (about 1 hour), or to visit on your own, the Acropolis site (this visit is not accessible to disabled people). Then short drive back to your hotel (about 15 minutes).
Evening and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Athens
Breakfast followed by hotel check-out procedures.
You will walk with your guide until Benaki Museum located in Kolonaki Square (about 10 minutes).
The Benaki Museum ranks among the great benefactions which have enriched the material assets of the Greek State. It is also the oldest museum in Greece. The Museum houses a set of collections comprising many distinct categories and totalling more than 30,000 items that illustrate the Greek world through a spectacular historical panorama: from Antiquity and the age of Roman domination to the medieval Byzantine period, from the fall of Constantinople (1453) and the centuries of Frankish and Ottoman occupation to the outbreak of the struggle for independence in 1821, and from the formation of the modern state of Greece (1830) to 1922, the year in which the Asia Minor disaster took place. Board your vehicle again for a short drive to your hotel.
Following your visit, board your vehicle for a short drive to the meeting point where your local chef will await for you.
Combine the best flavors of Athens has to offer, in a master class that involves putting together a menu, shopping for the ingredients in the vibrant central markets of Athens, and actually preparing it, all under the care of a professional chef and expert on Mediterranean cuisine.
After collecting everything, you will head to a venue with all the necessary equipment to turn the fresh ingredients into delicious delicacies. With the guidance of the chef, you will enjoy the best meal prepared by yourselves.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Athens to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery Collection is a boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of Athens, in the upscale Kolonaki neighbourhood, two minutes from Syntagma Square. Its contemporary interior houses works of art celebrating Greek culture. The fully-appointed Deluxe rooms offer a tranquil haven with an elegant atmosphere. From the rooftop terrace with swimming pool, the view of the Acropolis is uninterrupted and cloaked in magic at nightfall. Greek and Mediterranean specialities are served at MFlavours, the first of the hotel’s restaurants, while creative cuisine awaits guests at the second, Mappemonde.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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2-nights accommodation in Deluxe room at Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
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Welcome drink voucher of 20 € to enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop Mappemonde during open hours (non refundable)
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking escort on the day of arrival.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide during visits.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on days 1 & 2.
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Entry fees and guided visit of the Acropolis.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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On day 2, the photo tour of the Anafiotika district requires about 2 hours of walking on flat and uneven ground with uneven level.
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The visit of the Acropolis Museum (day 2), the Benaki Museum and the walk at Central Market (day 3) require moderate walking on flat or uneven ground (paved terrain and a few steps).
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The Acropolis visit site is not included to the program and is not recomanded for disabled people.You can visit it on your own during leisure time.
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The Benaki Museum is closed on Tuesday.
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The Central Market is closed on Sunday.
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The official check-in in room at 15:00.
Contact of your hotel:
Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery
4 Eleftheriou Venizelou Avenue and 2 Kriezotou street Syntagma Square,
Athens 105 64,
Greece
Telephone number: +30 21 4444 2000
Duration and order of the visits 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.
Total : 1.690 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Sacred site of Delphi
On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Delphi site opens the doors to a sacred world, where each stone summons up the glorious past of Ancient Greece.
Take the Sacred Way, the route walked in the past by pilgrims and kings of Antiquity, and go on a timeless journey. Here, the history of Greece and its legends overflow from everything: the ruins and ancient monuments, but also from the surrounding nature, which is still stunning.
This will jump out at you as you stand before the Temple of Apollo. It was constructed around the 7th century BC by two legendary architects, Trophonios and Agamedes; today, only a few vestiges remain of this Doric monument, decorated at the time with shields captured from the Persians. However, the foundations and columns that are still present seem to find an echo of their grandeur in the surrounding mountains.
The same goes for the ruins of the Senate of Delphi, as well as the vestiges of the Oracle of Delphi, where thousands of pilgrims gathered to receive the oracle of Pythia, high priestess of Apollo. The ancient theatre is also worth visiting.
A stone’s throw away from the sanctuary of Apollo, you will also be able to discover the Delphi Museum’s exhibitions, which present objects found at the archaeological site over the past century or more. Vases, bronzes, sculptures, precious offerings made to Apollo by pilgrims, objects of gold and ivory found under the slabs of the Sacred Way... they all recount the history of one of the most emblematic sites in Antiquity.
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This excursion involves walking around 1.7 kilometres (around a mile) on uneven ground, with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 75 €
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.
Hosios Loukas and charming Arachova
Marvel at the beauty of the Byzantine monastery of Hosios Loukas and take to the heights in the streets of Arachova, a small town perched 1,000 metres (3,000 feet) up on the illustrious Mount Parnassus.
The fortified monastery of Hosios Loukas, near Delphi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most characteristic monuments of the second golden age of Byzantine art. Founded at the start of the 10th century by the hermit Saint Luke, it includes a central-plan church decorated with superb marble decor and admirable mosaics on a gold background. The main shrine is none other than the tomb of Saint Luke, originally situated in the crypt.
Your excursion will continue with a visit of Arachova. Built on the side of the mountain, this small town of 3,300 inhabitants is famous for its traditional stone houses spread out over the northern slopes of Mount Parnassus, between 800 and 1,100 metres up. As you explore its small streets on your own, allow yourself to be charmed by the hospitality of the inhabitants, the local handicrafts and the gastronomy. Indeed, the town is well-known for its wine and cheese, as well as for its homemade carpets and blankets.
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This excursion involves walking an hour on uneven surfaces and cobblestone streets with many staircases (approximately 50 steps to the Monastery). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 65 €
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 & Monreale
From the pier, embark your coach for a scenic fifteen-minute drive through the main streets of Palermo passing by the Piazza Ruggero Settimo, Politeama Square, and Massimo Opera House.
Located on a wide bay beneath the shadow of Mount Pellegrino, Palermo is a jewel in the crown of Sicily. In the 9th century, Palermo was famed for the wealth of its court and its universities. Today, it is an international famed city with modern day treasures and priceless ancient monuments of architecture and art.
Your stop will be made at the Palatine Chapel, the royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily located on the ground floor of the Palazzo Reale in Palermo, where you will enjoy a guided visit. The chapel was commissioned by Roger II of Sicily in 1132 to be built upon an older chapel (now the crypt) constructed around 1080. It took eight years to build it and many more to decorate it with mosaics and fine art.
Back on your coach, you will travel to Monreale, where you will visit its Cathedral, the Duomo.
The Cathedral of Monreale is one of the greatest extant examples of Norman architecture in the world. It was begun in 1174 by William II, and in 1182 the church, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan cathedral. The church is a national monument of Italy and one of the most important attractions of Sicily. You will also visit the Benedictine’s cloister; the courtyard is enclosed by an arcade supported by 216 sets of twin columns, each with a different design and richly decorated capitals.
After some free time for shopping, re-board your coach for the thirty-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 0.6 mile (1 km) of walking on flat streets with 90 steps to negotiate from the coach parking to the Monreale Cathedral. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Flash photography is not allowed inside the Palatine Chapel nor the Cathedral. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 100 €
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).
Total : 70 €
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.
Cagliari and the ancient Roman city of Nora
Discover Cagliari and the archaeological site of Nora, located on a promontory of the Capo di Pula peninsular.
Not just the gateway to Sardinia’s most beautiful coastlines – the Costa Rei, Costa del Sud and Costa Smeralda – Cagliari itself is also well worth a visit. Its rich baroque architecture and its lively districts are reminders of this island’s warm soul, while the Bastione di San Remy, a monumental fort perched on the old town, offers a stunning panorama.
In Nora, a former trading post founded by the Phoenicians, the vestiges of several civilisations offer a wonderful dive into the past. First Carthaginian, then Roman, Nora declined and disappeared around the 8th century. From the old town, you can still see, among many archaeological marvels, Carthaginian warehouses, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large thermal baths with splendid mosaics and an almost intact theatre, dating from Roman times.
The water-supply system is particularly interesting, with large underwater pipes: their mosaics and very fine tesserae form rich geometric patterns. The sea around Nora still covers the part of the town that sank during an earthquake, but the former piers can still be recognised. After the visit, you will have a snack in a local café.
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This excursion involves approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking on uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Total : 100 €
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.
San Sperate, the Museum-village
From the pier, board your coach and start with a short panoramic drive of Cagliari. Your first stop will be made in front of the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria. Then you will continue to Monte Urpino from where you will enjoy a panoramic view over the capital of Sardinia.
Then, you will drive to San Sperate, a 30-minute drive. Situated just near Cagliari, San Sperate is one of the most important Sardinia agricultural centres. As many remains testify, San Sperate has a very ancient history. The famous “Maschera Ghignante” (sneering mask) has been found in 1976, during one of the first archaeological excavations.
In 1967, San Sperate became a Museum-village and it now hosts many works of important Italian and foreign artists, as well as cultural meetings, theatre exhibitions and festivals. The idea of making San Sperate a Museum-village was born in 1966 by Pinuccio Sciola, who painted all the walls in white on the occasion of the Corpus Christi feast and invited several artists to paint their work on the walls of the village.
You will meet your local guide and have a guided visit of the historical centre of the village, where you can admire a large number of “Murales” and sculptures meant to embellish the village. Your walking tour will also include the garden laboratory of the world-famous sculptor Pinuccio Sciola, who promoted the murals at San Sperate and created the sound stones, both an artistic creation and a musical instrument, unique in its kind.
After enjoying a Sardinian snack, you will board your coach and drive to Cagliari, a 30-minute drive.
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This tour involves approximately 2 miles (3 km) of walking over uneven terrain with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). This tour has limited capacity.
Total : 110 €
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.
Discover Ciutadella
From the pier, board your coach for the 50-minute drive to the old capital of the island, Ciutadella. Founded by the Cartheginians, Ciutadella remained the capital of Menorca until 1772, and it remains the ecclesiastical capital to this day. Ciutadella has a rather grand air with many elegant historical buildings, churches and large squares. The old town is packed with impressive architecture, including a gothic cathedral and several palaces belonging to the noble families, some of which are open to the public.
Upon your arrival, you will be given a guided tour of the historic centre of town before enjoying some free time to wander the streets.
From here, you will head back towards Mahon and, en route, enjoy a photo stop at the beautiful Cala Galdana beach resort, set in a horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by pine clad cliffs. The drive will take you to the east and the small village of Mercadal in the centre of the island.
You will finally discover the magnificent Fornells Bay. The 45-minute drive back to the port of Mahon will take you through fertile farm land and the market garden area, which is on reclaimed land at the innermost part of the harbour.
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This tour involves 3 km (2 miles) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Guests must be in good physical conditions. Please note that if the call is on a Sunday, stores may be closed in Ciutadella.
Total : 50 €
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.
Menorca and talayotic culture
From the pier, embark your coach for the 20-minute drive to the prehistoric settlement of Torralba d’en Salord.
This site dates back to the Talaiotic Period, between 1 000 BC and Roman times. The Taula and its enclosures were used for worship and are the most spectacular remains of the island. Excavations and restoration started in 1973 and is a continuing work for the Balearic Islands Foundation, in conjunction with the University of Madrid. The Taula - which means table - was built from two large slabs of rock, one vertical and the other horizontal, magnificently fashioned to form a “T” shape. The enclosures are horseshoe shaped with side columns.
After your guided visit of the megalithic village, you will return to Mahon, where you will start your guided walking tour.
You will start at the main square and walk downhill back to the harbour, through the city centre. The walk through this attractive town will give you a glimpse of the different periods of the islands’ turbulent history, and of the many architectural styles reflecting the frequent changes of rule. The centre offers an interesting mix of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, wide open squares and grand historical buildings.
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This tour involves 3 km (2 miles) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 50 €
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.
Menorca Natural and cultural delights
Pristine nature, rich cultural heritage, a taste for epicureanism and lounging about: Menorca has it all. You can tell by visiting some of the island’s most beautiful sites, from villages to coves, with their stunning views.
A small corner of heaven in the Balearic Islands, for those who like discretion and relaxation, Menorca also has what it takes for fans of beautiful scenery, well-kept traditions and rural architecture. From Arenal d'en Castell, discover the fortresses of Arenal and Addaia, as well as pretty inlets and bucolic little ports like Cala Tirant with its Caribbean appearance, or the fishing village of Fornells.
From Monte Torro, the highest point on the island, you can discover all Menorca. There, the church, the convent, and a statue of the Virgin all watch over the infinite azure, the pine forests and the jagged shorelines that appear in the distance.
The final port of call of your excursion: Subaida. This family farm, renowned for its delicious cheeses and wines, perfectly embodies the epicurean spirit running through the island. Discover how they make them, then enjoy a tasting of local produce, perhaps the best way of understanding Menorca’s immense charm.
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This excursion involves approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking on flat, sometimes cobbled ground. We recommend you wear walking shoes, comfortable clothing and sun cream.
Total : 60 €
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.
Walking Dat Vila & sangria
Meet your guide at the pier and board your coach for a short trip to Ibiza's old town, Dalt Vila.
You will start by heading to the upper part of the town, the historic district of Dalt Vila. Here, you will discover breathtaking views that will leave you breathless. With your guide, you will wander along the steep cobbled streets and among the little houses on the rocks, stopping off at the 13th-century Cathedral of the Virgin of the Snows (Catedral de Santa Maria de la Neu de Vila d'Eivissa).
Experience the magic of Ibiza's old town. You will discover that the streets of Dalt Vila are narrow and cobbled, and surrounded by magnificent fortification walls dating back to the 16th century. King Philip II ordered the construction of these walls to protect the island from pirates and Ottoman attacks from the sea.
The Renaissance walls were declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1999.
You will reach a charming little square inside the walls where you can enjoy the atmosphere with a glass of refreshing sangria cava.
You will, then, continue your walk to the lively port area of La Marina, where you will have some free time before re-boarding your coach and returning to your ship.
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There is approximately 1 km of walking on uneven surfaces, as well as cobbled and gravel streets. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 120 €
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.
Ebiking in Ibiza
If you like cycling and want a convenient way to explore the island, electric bicycles will allow you to easily ride uneven terrain and move around in total comfort.
You will meet your guide and instructor on the pier and start your tour by taking a little boat from the port to Playa den Bossa Beach.
From the boat, you will admire the old town of Ibiza, Dalt Vila, and its magnificent fortification walls.
Upon your arrival, at Playa den Bossa, you will take your material and have a safety briefing before beginning your e-bike tour.
When you are ready, you will ride your e-bike to the Natural Park of Las Salinas. There, you will make a short stop to discover the history of the salt flats and if you are lucky you will be able to admire the flamingos who live there. These salt flats are a breathtaking spot in the Balearic Island. The park has incredible biodiversity in a truly magnificent setting.
You will continue to ride through the salt flats to the coast and enjoy some amazing views along the way.
You will continue on to the Las Salinas Beach (Platja Ses Salines) one of Ibiza's best-known and most popular resorts. It is a wide, sandy beach with warm, turquoise waters.
Then, it will be time to get back to Playa den Bossa, where you will leave your material. If weather and time permit, you will be able to get to the sea to refresh yourself.
Finally, you will embark the little boat which will take you back to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves km of riding over road and path, including uneven terrains. There is some walking involved. Guests should know how to ride a bike and be in good physical condition. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothes, bringing a little backpack with water, and depending on the weather, a light jacket, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Total : 150 €
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.
Northern Ibiza, between tranquil countryside and spectacular views
Discover the quiet villages and spectacular scenery of the northern part of the island.
First, you will walk around San Miguel, a typical village whose parish church was built at the top of a hill. You will then continue to San Juan Bautista, away from the tourist trail. The road towards Santa Eulalia and San Vicente, winding through the woods, is particularly pleasant. In Santa Eulalia, a favourite spot for painters since the time of Joaquin Sorolla, you will be able to walk at leisure on the promenade edged with cafés and restaurants. Finally, you will arrive back on the coast in the typically Ibizan village of San Carlos.
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This tour involves walking 2 km (1.2 miles) on uneven surfaces with some steps. We recommend that you wear casual and comfortable clothing.
Total : 45 €
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.
Authentic Ibiza: natural landscapes and tapas
During this excursion in the south of Ibiza, discover Las Salinas Natural Park, travel through picturesque villages where you will stop for tapas, and enjoy breathtaking views.
Your first port of call will be Las Salinas Natural Park, a natural reserve with rich biodiversity. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Balearic Islands’ must-see spots.
You will then continue towards Es Cubells, which is Ibiza’s southernmost village. Perched on a cliff, it offers commanding views over Formentera. The village has retained its charm thanks to its geographic situation and it is famous for its 19th-century white church. Your first tapas stop will be in one of the village’s bars.
Then you will glimpse Es Vedrà, a rock emerging from the waters of the southwestern coast. You will head inland towards Santa Gertrudis, a picturesque village with a lively square. This is where you will have your second tapas stop, in an emblematic local bar. Enjoy some free time at leisure to wander among the shops before heading back to your ship.
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This excursion involves around 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking on uneven and cobbled surfaces, with some steps to negotiate. We recommend you wear weather-appropriate clothing and good walking shoes.
Total : 125 €
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.
Yoga in Ibiza, cultivate your body, mind and soul
Combine yoga and aloe vera for an experience all about well-being.
Start your day with a one-hour Hatha yoga class that will help you unwind and bring you inner peace. Relax and tune into your breath. The poses will help you to concentrate and refocus on yourself. After the session, you will visit a 100% environmentally-friendly aloe vera plantation and discover the plant’s many benefits. A number of Ecocert-certified products will be available for purchase.
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This excursion involves walking for 500 metres (0.3 miles) on sometimes uneven, rocky ground, plus some stairs. It is not accessible to persons in a wheelchair. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing.
Total : 180 €
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.
Santa Gertrudis and the Bibo Park Botanical Garden
Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere of Santa Gertrudis and discover the bio-tech botanical garden devoted to preserving the environment of the Pityusic Islands
Set in the heart of Ibiza, the village of Santa Gertrudis is a charming blend of tradition and modernity. Its central pedestrianised square is livened up by trendy cafés and restaurants that mingle harmoniously with Ibiza’s traditional establishments.
Enter the whitewashed church that bears witness to the village’s rich heritage and allow yourself to fall under the spell of the peace and quiet of the area. Explore the surrounding agricultural landscapes where sheep, goats and cows co-exist with the modern villas that edge the streets. Santa Gertrudis has long been a refuge for artists, sculptors and musicians - as is evidenced by the many galleries exhibiting work among the hanging hams.
Beyond Santa Gertrudis, discover Ibiza’s bio-tech botanical garden, a unique haven devoted to preserving the natural marvels of the Pityusic Islands. Walk around the park and immerse yourself in the microcosm of Ibiza and Formentera. Then retrace your steps through the saltwater lakes, river beds and mountain chains.
The biotechnologist Bartolo Planas has meticulously recreated up to seven Pityusic habitats, guaranteeing a faithful representation of their natural splendour. Discover the salt production process by observing sea water flowing into the crystallisation basins, like in salt marshes.
Dive into the heart of innovation and biotechnological development by exploring the areas devoted to growing microalgae and extracting atmospheric water. You will see how the microalgae absorb the carbon dioxide and release oxygen, thus helping to preserve the environment.
Finally, enjoy a typical local snack and raise a glass of cava to commemorate this extraordinary journey, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Ibiza's hinterland
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This excursion involves walking approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) on uneven surfaces with cobbles and gravel as well as some steps. It is not accessible to persons in a wheelchair. We advise you to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, a hat and sunglasses.
Total : 90 €
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.
Cartagena colourful market and tasting
In addition to its history and cultural influences, Cartagena also offers the chance to discover local flavors through its markets, especially the main one.
With your guide you will stroll from the pier, and you will be guided through the old center of Cartagena, where you will have a stop at the Market Hall.
The Murcia region produces some of the best fruit and vegetables in Spain. It is a vast agricultural area that has earned it the nickname "the orchard of Europe", and you will understand why every time you step into a store or visit a market in the region.
You will wander around and stop off at the various stalls, to admire and learn about the local produces: cheeses and charcuterie, smoked fish, fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, spices... all the colors and flavors will grab your attention. Your guide will take you to the best stalls (4 or 5) to sample local seasonal produce (depending on the season).
Then, you will have some free time to enjoy the area, before heading back to the pier and your ship.
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There is approximately 1,5 km of walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces. There are some steps to negotiate. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 50 €
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.
Discovering Murcia
Surrounded by a mountain range, the city of Murcia has Arabic origins and its existence is closely connected to the fertile plain along the River Segura. On Cardenal Belluga square, discover two of Murcia’s architectural jewels: the cathedral and the 18th-centrury Episcopal Palace, with its rococo façade.
On the road leading to Murcia, in the foothills of the Sierra de Carrascoy, you will observe the abrupt scenery of gorges and ravines. Then you will arrive in Murcia. This lively city, founded by the Moors in the 9th century and conquered by the Christians in the 13th century, possesses some architectural marvels, such as its famous cathedral. Located on Plaza Cardenal Belluga, near the Segura, it was constructed on the site of Murcia’s former great Aljama Mosque between the 9th and 18th centuries and it borrows from several architectural styles: Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Neoclassical.
You can then admire the colourful façade of the Episcopal Palace, before going to the Royal Casino, one of the city’s oldest buildings. Constructed in 1847, this building also borrows from different artistic styles. Although it is a private club, the ground floor is open to the public and hosts cultural events.
You will cross the Santo Domingo and Romeo squares and then stop to have a drink and eat tapas.
- This excursion involves walking around 3.5 kilometres (1.9 miles) on cobblestone streets with some steps to negotiate. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The order of visits may change.
Total : 70 €
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.
Horses of Spain
From the pier, embark your coach for a shorth drive to a beautiful Spanish finca, situated on the outskirts of Cartagena. Here, pure Spanish breed horses are bred and sent all over the world.
Upon arrival, visit the finca and learn more about Spanish horses and their natural environment. Dedicated staff will tell you about the horses breeding, livestock management and horse training. Observe a stampede of horses, a truly spectacular sight, while enjoying a local product tasting such as local wine and typical tapas.
Then, continue your visit of the finca before enjoying a short flamenco dance performed by a dancer and a horse.
Finally, get back to your coach for a short panoramic drive back to the pier.
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This tour involves walking 1 mile (1,5 km) on uneven and lawn ground and some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun, with a hat. The horse show is performed outside and flies are expected. To avoid flies, you should not put perfume or perfumed cosmetic. Please be aware that there are long periods of standing as a limited number of seats are available in the finca.
Total : 120 €
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.
Cartagena and Roman theater
This excursion is the best way to immerse yourself in the ancient Roman city “Carthagonova” and discover the different aspects of the inhabitants’ daily life at that time.
From the pier, meet your guide and start your walking tour of the heart of Cartagena, a city proud of its millennial past, above all the famous Second Punic War: the confrontation between the Carthaginians and Romans.
Start your tour visiting the Roman theatre, one of the most emblematic monuments of Cartagena. This theatre played an important role at the time of Ancient Rome and had a capacity for 6.000 people.
Continue to the Conception castle, boarding a panoramic lift to the roof terrace, an integral part of lovely Torres Park, located on one of the city’s five defensive hills, offering breath-taking city views.
Before returning to the ship, you will explore the Calle Mayor, Cartagena’s major commercial and pedestrian street where you will have the opportunity to admire landmarks such as the Gran Hotel and the Cervantes House and enjoy some free time.
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This excursion involves approximately 2 miles (3 km) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is limited to 90 participants. The order of the visits may vary.
Total : 40 €
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.
Old Málaga & Picasso museum
During this walking tour of Old Málaga, explore the wonderful art and architecture of the birthplace city of Picasso, and discover his art during a visit to the Picasso Museum.
From the pier, start your guided walking tour to the Picasso Museum. En route, take a stroll through the Old Town. Your first stop is Calle Larios, the main shopping street of Málaga. Next, cross the Plaza de la Constitución, walk along Calle Granada to the Plaza de la Merced. Here, discover Picasso's birthplace and an exhibition about the famous artist. Then proceed to the highlight of the tour, the Picasso Museum of Málaga, or "Museo Picasso Málaga".
The Picasso Museum is permanently housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, a 16th century historical building that is adorned with the Andalusian architecture of the day, along with a unique blend of Renaissance and Mudéjar elements.
Following your guided museum visit, proceed to the Bodega El Pimpi for some tapas accompanied by wine and enjoy some free time.
Finally, it will be time for you to walk back to the pier.
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This tour involves approximately 1,5 mile (2.5 km) of walking. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes.
Total : 60 €
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.
Málaga and the Pompidou Centre
This tour will take you to the Centre Pompidou Málaga, the first temporary installation of this Parisian art centre abroad. You will be immersed in modern and contemporary art.
After meeting your guide on the quay, you will board your bus for a scenic drive to Gibralfaro Castle, where you will stop for an outdoor tour of the grounds. Gibralfaro Castle (Castillo de Gibralfaro) is a historic fortress located on Mount Gibralfaro, overlooking the city of Málaga. It is located next to another emblematic monument, Málaga's Alcazaba. Its strategic position offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside.
You will then catch your bus back to Málaga's Pompidou Centre, a branch of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, France. The museum is located in the lively port district of Muelle Uno, close to Málaga's historic centre. It is dedicated to modern and contemporary art and presents a varied collection of works from the 20th and 21st centuries, in a wide range of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, video art and multimedia installations.
The museum's permanent collection includes over 80 works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dalí, Marc Chagall, Jackson Pollock and René Magritte. The collection represents various artistic movements, including cubism, surrealism, abstract expressionism and pop art.
After the tour, you will head to a local bar to enjoy a refreshing drink. Enjoy a drink and a tapa.
Finally, you will catch your bus back to your ship.
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This tour involves walking almost 1.5 miles (2 km) on uneven but relatively flat surfaces. We advise you to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 60 €
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.
A stroll with the Chef
Immerse yourself in Málaga's gastronomic culture. Learn how the most traditional Andalusian and Spanish dishes are prepared.
Meet your guide on the quay and board your bus for a short trip to Málaga city center.
After a panoramic tour of Málaga, the chef will accompany you to the Atarazanas market, one of the most famous markets in the whole of Málaga, where you will buy top-quality products under the guidance of professionals from the world of cooking. The Atarazanas market is known for its colorful stained-glass windows depicting scenes from Málaga's history, as well as for its wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and other local products.
The market is open from dawn to mid-afternoon. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who come to buy fresh ingredients and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
After this immersion, you will head to the charming Patio de Beatas restaurant, where you will be given the tools to transform yourself into an authentic Spanish chef. During this activity, you will learn how to prepare a delicious and flavorful sangria, tortilla and salmorejo, in the company of your chef.
Finally, you will return to your bus for the ride back to the dock and your ship.
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This tour involves 1.5 km of walking on uneven and relatively flat, paved surfaces. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing. The chef speaks English and Spanish only.
Total : 140 €
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.
Discover Málaga
On this tour, you will discover old Málaga and its impressive green space with its historic botanical garden.
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to the "La Concepción" Botanical Garden . The La Concepción estate belonged to the Marquises de Casa Loring between 1850 and 1990 before being purchased by Malaga City Council. Its owners created a park where they planted exotic species brought by their commercial fleet from Latin America, the Philippines and Australia. It's a romantic garden with winding paths, ponds, waterfalls and streams. It features lush semi-tropical vegetation, rubber plants, palm trees and Araucarias. The park is also famous for its cultural heritage: the Loringiano Museum, a small Doric church, and the wisteria-covered pergola close to the palace. Officially declared a Historical-Artistic Garden in 1943, it is now also recognised as a Site of Cultural Interest. A local guide will take you through the historic part of the garden and explain everything you need to know.
After this visit, you will return by coach to the city centre, where you will begin a walking tour through the old town. You will have an inside visit of the Cathedral of the Incarnation. The construction of the Cathedral wrapped up in the latter half of the 18th century, after over 250 years of work. It has its own gardens and a beautiful patio. The Cathedral is one of the major monuments of the Renaissance in Andalusia.
After this visit, you will return by coach to the city center, where you will begin a walking tour of the old town. This tour includes an interior visit to the Cathedral of the Incarnation. The cathedral is one of the city's most important monuments. By order of the Catholic Monarchs, work began on the cathedral in the first half of the 19th century. It has its own gardens and a beautiful patio. The cathedral is one of Andalusia's most important Renaissance monuments.
Continue your walk past the ruins of the Roman amphitheatre, church and cathedral.
Finally, you'll head to a local bar to enjoy a refreshing drink, before returning to your ship.
- This tour involves nearly 2 mile (3 km) of walking over paved streets with some steps. Expect uphill climbs at times. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The visit of the Roman Amphitheatre is only from the outside.
Total : 60 €
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.
Andalusian getaway in Mijas
During this day, you will fall in love with the white clad village of Mijas in the heart of Andalusia where you will enjoy a flamenco show.
From the pier, embark with your guide on your bus for a one-hour journey to one of the most Andalusian villages on the Costa del Sol, Mijas.
This white and pristine gem is nestled on the mountainside at an altitude of 428 metres, earning it the name "Mirador de la Costa del Sol" (Lookout of the Costa del Sol). This village is one of the most picturesque in the region. Your guide will lead you through its paved alleys, past beautiful small, whitewashed houses adorned with grilles and covered in bougainvillea and jasmine. Along the way, you will make your way to the upper terraces to enjoy the best views of the town, as well as the mountains of the Sierra de Mijas, the coast, and the sea. Then, you will head towards the city's most emblematic site, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rock (Santuario de la Virgen de la Peña), the patron saint of Mijas.
Afterwards, you will have some free time to stroll at your leisure through the maze of streets.
Then, you will rejoin your guide and head to an authentic restaurant. You will enjoy a typical meal accompanied by the vibrations of music and the colors of a flamenco show performed by professional dancers and musicians.
At the end of this delightful meal, it will be time to board your bus and return to the port.
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This excursion includes a nearly 2 miles (3 km) walk on uneven surfaces and paved streets, expect uphill climbs at times. There are a few steps to negotiate. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, as well as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Total : 140 €
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.
Tropical Málaga
On this tour, you will discover how tropical fruit is grown. Did you know that the Axarquía region is one of the largest tropical fruit-producing areas in Europe? On this tour, you will become an expert in the field. You will visit a family-run tropical plantation located in a rural area between Torrox and Vélez-Málaga.
Together with your guide, you will board your bus from the dock, for an hour-long journey to the rural part of the Málaga region.
Although the plantation is located in a rural area, it nevertheless faces the sea, and you will be surprised by the incredible views of the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Once you arrive at the tropical plantation, your host will take you on a guided tour of the different areas of the plantation, observing the different varieties of mango that are grown and learning all about their cultivation process. You will also see how avocados are grown, as well as other tropical and "rare" plants found in the tropical orchard.
After the guided tour, you will enjoy a "tropical" tasting. You will taste delicious mangoes, tasty avocados and other surprises depending on the season. After all, this is agriculture, and every fruit has its own season.
Finally, you will catch your bus for the return journey to the dock and your ship.
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This tour includes 1.5 km of walking on irregular, rather flat surfaces with cobblestones. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Total : 70 €
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.
Exclusive visit of the Alhambra by night
This excursion must be pre-booked. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed onboard based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour.
From the pier, board your coach and start your 2-hour scenic drive to the city of Granada which is lying at approximately 2,100 feet (650 m) above sea level, in the shadow of the mighty Sierra Nevada. The Moors stormed across the Strait of Gibraltar in the 8th century, and they were not driven out of Granada until 1492. During the intervening centuries, they brought a refined civilisation to the south of Spain; Granada, and particularly the Alhambra, represent the zenith of Moorish culture in this country.
On arrival, you will discover the old Albayzin Quarter, part of the UNESCO world heritage, from where you will enjoy a splendid view over to the Sierra Nevada, the Darro Valley, and the Alhambra itself.
After an early tapas dinner, enjoy an exclusive visit of the Alhambra by night.
You will visit the Generalife, the small summer palace with its attractive gardens. Walk along an avenue of stately cypress trees and be delighted at the sight of trim flower-beds and box hedges, myrtle bushes and, above all, fountains.
The Nazrid Palace, named after the last dynasty of Sultans which made important reformations, is one of the finest examples of Islamic Art. Although damaged and restored over the centuries, it is not difficult to picture the place as it was in all its glory 600 years ago. The ceilings drip with stalactites in stucco, and each room appears more richly decorated than the previous one. Marvel at the delicate marble columns, graceful arcades and fine craftsmanship in the Sultans' "paradise on earth". The Hall of the Ambassadors and the Court of the Lions are considered as the gems of this oriental jewel box. From its windows you can look back across to the old quarter of Albayzin and the gypsy haunts of Sacromonte.
Finally, you will return to your coach for a 2-hour transfer back to your ship.
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The drive from Málaga to Grenada takes 2 hours. This tour involves approximately 2.5 miles (3 km) of walking, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The Alhambra is privatised for PONANT's guests. This tour has limited capacity.
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.
Andalusian drive
This panoramic drive will take you into the heart of the province of Cadiz, to Medina-Sidonia, a history-laden town nestling between the mountains and the sea, then onto the villages of Vejer de la Frontera and Conil de la Frontera.
Discover one of Spain’s best-preserved hillside villages. It is as if time had kept this medieval village intact, with its cobbled streets, white buildings with tiled roofs scattered along the hills, its gothic church and its Moorish gate.
Along the road, you will come across one of the most prestigious herds of bulls, nestling in the decor of the historic town. Your guide will then take you into the countryside of the Route of the Bull (Ruta del Toro) to discover the region’s agriculture, including the surrounding olive groves. You will go through the village of Vejer de la Frontera, a white village perched above the sheer gorge of the Barbate River. Declared a Spanish national monument in 1978, this pretty village offers a perfect example of popular Arab-Andalusian architecture. You will continue your drive to Conil de la Frontera, a small town with narrow cobbled streets, boasting a superb beach. You will be able to make the most of it by visiting the historic monuments, taking a seat in one of the tapas bars, and buying souvenirs in the lively stores.
- The level of difficulty of this excursion is low. We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Total : 40 €
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.
Vejer de la Frontera and Cape Trafalgar
From the pier, embark your coach for a one-hour drive across the countryside, passing through the Natural Park of La Breña, a protected pine forest. You will go to Cape Trafalgar, the main site where the Battle of Trafalgar took place. Your guide will give you a brief explanation of the battle where Lord Nelson lost his life, and a short photo stop will be proposed.
Squeezed between the sierras and the sea, the classic white-washed village of Vejer de la Frontera is perched high above the steep gorge of the River Barbate. Declared as Historic-Artistic Site in 1976, and winner of the First National Embellishment Award in 1978, Vejer de la Frontera's most stunning feature is the Arab-Andalusian popular architecture.
During your walking tour on the cobblestoned streets, you will meander through secret corners, hidden patios and typical houses. Along your route, you will pass by Plaza de España, one of the prettiest village squares in Spain, where you can enjoy a refreshment and some free time before your return to the ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. It is necessary to be in good physical conditions.
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.
Cadiz Flamenco Show
From the pier, you will follow your guide, by foot to the tablao Flamenco La Cava, for an exciting performance of this powerful and energetic typical Spanish dance. Rhythmically tapping heels, clicking castanets, the traditional rascado flourishes of the guitar and the emotional voices of the singers blend to create a truly mesmerizing experience. During the show, enjoy typical tapas to be totally immersed in the local atmosphere.
After the show take a leisurely walk back to your ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 1,2 miles (1 km) of walking on mostly flat streets. The flamenco show lasts about 1 hour. Recording videos is prohibited in the flamenco tavern.
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.
Walking tour of Cadiz and the Cathedral
Follow your guide on a stroll through the old town of Cadiz, visiting the most emblematic squares and monuments.
With your guide, set off from the quay for a guided tour of Cadiz, the oldest city in Europe. The old town, with its Moorish appearance, is rife with intriguing narrow, cobbled streets that open onto small squares.
You will see the Plaza de San Juan de Dios, the town hall and the 18th-century Baroque and neoclassical cathedral.
The cathedral took 116 years to build, which explains the mixture of styles. Construction began in the Baroque style and was completed in the Neoclassical style. The interior features sculptures from the old cathedral. The towers and sacristy were built last, in the 19th century. The vaults of the high altar and the choir stalls are remarkable, although the latter did not come from the cathedral. The cathedral is topped by a golden brick dome, which gives it an impressive appearance. The brilliant Manuel de Falla is buried in the crypt.
Discover its interesting interior, including the museum that belongs to the cathedral and contains the cathedral treasury.
Next, you will head to the Plaza Flores, where you will have time to enjoy a tapa and a glass of wine in a local bar.
Finally, you will make your way to the Plaza de España, crossing the Plaza San Antonio and the Plaza Mina, before your walk takes you back to your ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 2.17 mile (3.5 km) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 40 €
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.
ECOCHIC GETAWAY IN COMPORTA (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Lisbon pier/Comporta region
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
Transfer of around 1 h 15 minutes from Lisbon Pier to the Sublime Comporta 5* Hotel. This is located in Muda, 20 kilometres (12.4 miles) from Comporta, a preserved region offering a setting that features dunes, pine trees, vineyards and rice fields. It is the ideal location for a rejuvenating break.
This morning, you will head towards the territory of Herdade da Comporta, a natural reserve that brings together several hamlets. In these wild landscapes between the ocean and endless rice fields, you will visit the Rice Museum, a site devoted to rice cultivation and the impact of this crop on the region’s history.
You will then set off to visit the vineyards where you will attend a tasting session. This experience will let you learn more about the specific features of grape cultivation in this unique environment whose sandy soil is subject to the influence of the ocean.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant or at the Sublime Comporta Beach Club depending on opening days.
Back at your hotel (around a 15-minute drive), enjoy some free time to relax. Let yourself be tempted by the hotel’s well-being facilities or by an optional activity at an extra charge.
Dinner will be served in a local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
Optional activity — “Horseback ride on the beach" (minimum of 5 participants):
As an option and at an extra charge, during your afternoon time at leisure, set off on a 1 h 30 horseback ride to explore the paradisiacal coast that runs along your hotel’s region, featuring pine forests and dunes.
Day 2 – Comporta region
After breakfast, you will be driven to the departure point for a walk that will last around 2 hours and during which you will be introduced to bird watching. This narrow strip of land between the ocean and the rice fields is home to a large variety of species.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant or at the Sublime Comporta Beach Club depending on opening days.
The afternoon will be dedicated to discovering a typical Alentejo village, Alcacer do Sal, which is built along the Sado River. On your guided walk through the narrow streets of the old town, you will see the castle and the museum, among other sites. You will not leave before a taste of local colour, these sweets made of pine nuts that are called “pinhoadas”.
Transfer back at your hotel (around a 30-minute drive).
Diner at a local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Comporta region/Lisbon airport
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Nestling in a lush setting, the 5-star Sublime Comporta Hotel & Spa is an intimate, peaceful retreat approximately one hour out of Lisbon. Here, time stands still. The establishment boasts an eco-friendly design with an elegant, pared-down style and a relaxed atmosphere. Each room is built from noble materials and opens onto the surrounding nature, immersing you in light and tranquillity. The restaurant serves creative, regional cuisine made with produce from the hotel’s organic vegetable garden. Wines from Alentejo feature prominently on the wine list. As for the Sublime Comporta Beach Club, just 10 minutes from the hotel, it offers stunning views of the ocean. Treat yourself to a yoga session, a spa treatment, or merge with the elements during a bike ride or a horseback ride along the beach. Here, the most beautiful scenery remains the unspoiled natural environment of Comporta, bringing rice fields, pine forest, dunes, and long stretches of white sand to your doorstep.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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2-night accommodation in Guest Suite room at Sublime Comporta Hotel 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Lunch on day 3.
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Personal expenses.
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Optional activities.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
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Official check-in at 16:00.
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Official check-out at 12:00.
Contact of your hotel:
Sublime Comporta
EN 261-1 / 7570-337 Muda, CCI 3954 Grandola
Portugal
Telephone number: 351 269 449 376
Duration and order of the visits 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.
Total : 2.200 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.A GLIMPSE OF LISBON & VISIT OF CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN MUSEUM
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Lisbon
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will depart the port by coach for a glimpse of the Portuguese capital. The scenic drive will lead you uphill to the Park Edward VII. Park Edward VII is named after the king from United Kingdom with the same name, who visit Portugal in 1903, to strengthen relations between the 2 countries. In 1945 the Portuguese Modernist architect Francisco Keil do Amaral redesigned the park to its current configuration, giving one of the best views of Lisbon.
Then, you will visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (closed on Tuesday). You will travel throught 5.000 years of History thanks to this fascinating private collection amased by Calouste Gulbenkian, one of the most important private collecttions of international art.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
Then, you will be transferred by coach to Lisbon Airport, in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Lunch with beverage package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of local wine + 1 coffee or tea).
- 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.
Please note:
- The Museum visit is limited to a group of 25 participants.
Duration and order of the visits 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 : 250 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS (PRE) + A GLIMPSE OF LISBON & VISIT OF CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN MUSEUM (POST)
Total : 690 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + A GLIMPSE OF LISBON & VISIT OF CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN MUSEUM (POST)
Total : 2.255 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS (PRE) + ECOCHIC GETAWAY IN COMPORTA (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
Total : 2.645 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + ECOCHIC GETAWAY IN COMPORTA (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
Total : 4.255 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.