Island Hopping Aboard Le Ponant, From Athens to Dubrovnik

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. If your schedule is tight, savor traditional Greek coffee at a café with a view of the city's iconic ruins, soaking in the historic ambiance before your cruise departs. If you've got time to explore the Acropolis stands as a must-see, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with iconic structures like the Parthenon and nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus. The nearby Acropolis Museum showcases stunning artifacts from ancient Greece, providing deeper insight into the city's heritage.

Lavrion, a pivotal port located on the southeastern tip of Attica, Greece, is your gateway to the mesmerizing beauty of the Aegean Sea and the historical riches of Athens. The cruise terminal in Lavrion is situated 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) from Athens, translating to an approximate travel time of 1 hour by car. This proximity offers a seamless connection for explorers eager to witness the ancient marvels of Athens, including the Acropolis, the Plaka district, and the National Archaeological Museum.

For those interested in local attractions, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion is a short drive away, offering stunning sunset views over the Aegean. Lavrion itself charms visitors with its quaint marina, seafood restaurants, and mineralogical museum, making it a delightful starting point or finale to your Aegean adventure.

Spetses, an enchanting island near the Argolic Peninsula of Greece, is famed for its significant role in the Greek War of Independence and retains a grandeur in its neoclassical mansions lining the old harbor and narrow, cobblestone streets. A visit here is a step back in time, where cars are rare and horse-drawn carriages offer a charming way to explore.

The island's vibrant maritime history is on display at the Spetses Museum, housed in the mansion of a heroic war figure. For a leisurely afternoon, the beaches around the island provide serene spots for relaxation. The local almond sweets and seafood are not to be missed, enriching any visit with authentic Greek flavors.

The picturesque port of Pylos is located in the south west of the Peloponnese. Backed against the lush green hills of Messenia, it looks out onto the Navarino Bay. You can admire the gorgeous view as you walk uptown amid pink oleanders that cascade over the jetty. A stone’s throw away, the historical centre’s winding streets will plunge you into a maze of houses with whitewashed facades and terracotta roof-tiles. On the attractive main beach, you will be able to relax in the shade of the age-old plane trees and taste the delicious local biscuits made of sesame and honey.

Cephalonia, the largest of Greece's Ionian Islands, offers stunning landscapes and rich history. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, particularly at Myrtos Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea. Visitors can explore the captivating Melissani Cave, where a boat tour reveals a mesmerizing underground lake illuminated by sunlight streaming through a hole in the cave’s roof. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the ancient ruins of Sami, a testament to the island's rich past. The island also had its part in the Battle of Greece during World War II, which later inspired Louis de Bernières' novel "Captain Corelli's Mandolin".

With Venetian architecture, turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere, Fiskardo is the only village on the island to survive the devastating earthquake of 1953 unscathed. Fiskardo Harbour is the heart of the town, lined with colourful buildings and waterfront cafes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the quay, taking in the stunning views of moored yachts. Emblisi Beach is a short walk from the town, inviting visitors to dip their toes in the crystalline waters and Fiskardo Lighthouse showcases breathtaking views across the Ionian Sea.

Paxos, a tiny gem in the Ionian Sea, captures the quintessential Greek island charm with its mosaic of secluded coves, verdant terrain, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors often find solace in the unhurried pace of life here, where the days are marked by dips in the sea and leisurely explorations of picturesque villages like Gaios, Loggos, and Lakka. The island's rich history is encapsulated in well-preserved old churches and mythical sea caves.

Explore the west coast where dramatic cliffs plunge into the azure sea and hidden caves await. The trip to the stunning Blue Caves is particularly mesmerizing and easily accessible for those disembarking in the morning. Back on land, indulge in the local cuisine, renowned for its fresh seafood and robust olive oils.

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.

The fjord-like bay, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, reveals medieval towns nestled along its shores. Highlights include the picturesque islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George. As you navigate the winding bay, you'll pass ancient fortresses and red-roofed villages, all set against a backdrop of verdant mountains. This scenic journey offers a unique perspective on one of the Adriatic's most captivating landscapes.

Situated in one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, the medieval city of Kotor is a small town full of charm, truly imbued with the traditions and stories of another time. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, this village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has preserved many historical monuments from this epoch. During your stop, be sure to admire the impressive castle that dominates the town, and let yourself fall under the charm of its maze of small streets and intimate squares on which folk festivals featuring magnificent colourful costumes are often organised.

Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon.

The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.