Overview
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, dive into the teeming waters of the wild Revellata peninsula at the gates of Calvi; discover Napoleon’s residences in Portoferraio; or discover the Greco-Roman ancient theatre from Taormina. The diversity read more of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From Nice, you will set sail for Calvi in the heart of the Balagne region. Between steep peaks and sublime beaches with turquoise waters, you will experience a wild and authentic Corsica. A little further south, at the foot of the mountains of Cap Corse and the Agriates desert, the beauty of the landscapes gives Saint-Florent a picture-postcard appearance.
After a port of call at Portoferraio, a small corner of paradise on the island of Elba, where Napoleon spent many days in exile, you will stop in Portofino. Built in a natural harbour protected by a pine forest, it is a picturesque and lively port that has successfully retained its authenticity and traditions.
Your exploration will continue to the Tuscan Island of Giglio. Then, your ship will stop at Porto Ercole, a charming Tuscan village with colourful houses, on the Monte Argentario peninsula. Here, you will have the possibility of meeting fishermen from the Orbetello Lagoon as well as local producers. The peninsula’s rolling and lush landscapes will also provide you with opportunities for magnificent outings.
A little further south, you will discover the Aeolian islands. Lipari is the capital of the Aeolian volcanic archipelago and is renowned for its many natural and architectural gems.
Taormina, overlooking Etna’s blanket of snow. Its streets will lead you to its famed ancient Greek theatre, where the quality of the acoustics is exceptional. Your cruise will come to an end in Valletta, capital of the island of Malta and former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.
Ponant Explorers
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Itinerary
Located on the stunning French Riviera, Nice is renowned for its captivating seaside views and vibrant culture. Begin your visit with a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, where the azure Mediterranean Sea meets the bustling city. The historic Old Town, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, offers a delightful maze of artisan shops, cafés, and the famous Cours Saleya market.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Marc Chagall National Museum and the Musée Matisse, both housing impressive collections. For a taste of local life, visit the Liberation Market, featuring fresh produce and regional specialties. Don’t miss Castle Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea, making it a perfect spot for photographs.
Discover the history and beautiful architecture of this ancient seaport in the lovely pink stone Palazzo Tursi where letters of Christopher Columbus and Paganini's famed Guarnieri violin are on display. Visit the magnificent Palazzo Bianco and stroll past old master paintings.
For a taste of the surrounding beauty, Genoa offers easy access to nearby gems. Marvel at Milan’s iconic Duomo and high-end shops. Discover Cinque Terre’s colorful cliffside villages, perfect for breathtaking photos. Or, enjoy the upscale charm of Portofino, with its picturesque harbor and boutique-lined streets. Each nearby locale enhances your Genoa visit with distinctive experiences.
Portofino, a picturesque fishing village on the Italian Riviera, is renowned for its colorful harbor and upscale ambiance. Start your day with a leisurely walk around the Marina, where luxury yachts are moored against a backdrop of pastel-colored houses. The charming Piazza Martiri dell'Olivetta is perfect for a morning coffee while soaking in the scenic views.
Visit the historic Castello Brown, offering panoramic vistas of the Ligurian Sea and surrounding hills. Stroll through the lush gardens of Parco di Portofino or take a short hike to the beautiful San Fruttuoso Abbey, accessible by boat or trail. Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, savoring the laid-back yet elegant atmosphere before heading back to your cruise.
Saint-Florent, nestled at the base of the Cap Corse peninsula in Corsica, is a charming blend of French and Italian influences, often compared to a mini Saint-Tropez.
This picturesque seaside town is centered around a bustling marina, lined with chic cafés and gourmet restaurants. The town is renowned for its white sandy beaches such as Plage de la Roya, which offers leisurely activities and watersports in a stunning setting.
For those interested in culture and history, the Genoese Citadel provides insight into Saint-Florent's past with its commanding views over the bay. The town also serves as a gateway to the renowned Patrimonio vineyards, inviting visitors to taste some of Corsica's finest wines.
Portoferraio is the capital of the island of Elba, a mountainous mirage of glowing beaches, turquoise waters, and craggy coastline. The cities sun-faded pink and yellow buildings stack up over the waterfront, offering sweeping views back to the mainland. Ships will dock in the Portoferraio Marina.
Top Things to Do in Portoferraio:
- take in the view from Medici Fortress
- visit Villa San Martino
- take a cable car up Mt. Capanne
- explore the seaside resort of Porto Azzurro
- relax on Procchio Beach
On the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the small island of Giglio is home to a concentration of all of Tuscany’s secrets and beauty. Fine sandy beaches and hidden coves compose a landscape in which the emerald sea serves as a setting for wild nature.
This mountainous land is covered by garrigue on which pine forest and vineyards grow, a real paradise in the Mediterranean. A walk through the heart of this bucolic environment will also be the opportunity to discover rich history, as reflected in the medieval village of Giglio Castello.
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.
Located just to the north of Sicily, and to the west of Italy’s mainland, Lipari Island is one of UNESCO's marvellous World Heritage sites and the largest of the Aeolian's archipelago.
The island's lava stone quarries and obsidian flow of Rocce Rosse are indications of its volcanic nature.
The town, the largest urban area in the whole archipelago, proudly houses its citadel and its castle, both rooted in Antiquity. Its florally-painted buildings line cobbled, plant-pot decorated streets - and glow attractively in the ever-present sunshine.
Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, in the province of Messina, the seaside town of Taormina is Sicily’s Saint-Tropez, boasting heritage sites, secluded beaches and luxury shopping. You can visit its medieval centre, suspended 300 metres above sea level, where terraces offer a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another vestige from its past are the ruins of the Greco-Roman theatre. This extremely well-preserved site attracts visitors who are fascinated by the natural beauty of the area which overlooks a turquoise bay.
The entire city of Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cited as one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world, it’s a cultural hub for Baroque art, museums, and historic sites. Ships will dock at the cruise port.
Top Things to Do in Valletta:
- tour the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral
- explore the island of Gozo
- take in the view at Dingli Cliffs
- visit the Grand Master's Palace
- explore Malta’s ancient capital, Mdina
- stroll along the Valletta waterfront
Life On Board
Take an voyage in French sophisticated luxury when you explore the world on Le Bougainville. Read more
Unwind in the chic decor of your ocean facing stateroom or suite complete with luxury amenities. Read more
Situated at the stern of the ship you can watch the coean pass by as you swim. Read more
Hear the sounds and catch a glimpse of the underwater world through the windows of the Blue Eye. Read more
Enjoy socialising and dancing in the main lounge or applaud a live show in the theatre. Read more
Dine al fresco at the grill or enjoy buffet and table service in the main restaurant. Read more
Ship Reviews (1)
AUD Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
