Overview
In the Aeolian Islands archipelago, Lipari seems to float between the sky and the sea, and majestic Stromboli watches over the horizon like a lighthouse. Portoferraio, between lush hills and coves of turquoise water, reveals all of Elba’s beauty, with read more the sea meeting the land in a unique landscape. Calvi, in the north of the Isle of Beauty, stands with its citadel facing the infinite, bathed by the deep blue of the Mediterranean.
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Itinerary
The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic.
You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.
Honey-coloured Syracuse is a staggering UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an extraordinary Sicilian city of immense ancient history. It is one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean, with a wonderful collection of historical sites from both the ancient Greek and Roman time periods.
Top Things to Do in Syracuse:
- explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park
- stroll through Ortigia, the historic centre
- visit the baroque town of Noto
- explore Catania and Mt. Etna
- sample some wine at Pupillo Winery
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.
Palermo is a cultural feast, a fascinating combination of East and West, Arab and Norman that is quite unlike any other European city on the Mediterranean. Stacked markets spill out onto souk-like streets, while grand piazzas host elaborate fountains and sculptures, below the watch of baroque church domes.
Top Things to Do in Palermo:
- take a scenic drive up Mt. Pellegrino
- visit the Capuchin Catacombs
- explore the ruins of Segesta
- wander through the busy Mercato del Capo
- visit the medieval town of Erice
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.
The lively seaport of Salerno is a thriving modern metropolis with ancient origins. Its elegant lungomare, a shoreside promenade, offers far-reaching views of the sea and the mountains beyond. The city boasts an ideal location with both the ruins of Roman cities and the stunning Amalfi Coast in easy reach. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Salerno:
- explore the ruins of Pompeii
- enjoy a scenic drive to Ravello
- visit the post-card worthy Positano
- cruise the Amalfi Coast in a boat
The sunny coastal city of Gaeta sits on a promontory that juts out to sea in a spectacular setting. It is a land of legends, history and nature, with origins going back to the Greeks and Romans, and myths that mingle with historical facts.
The fortifications that surround this ancient fort are a reminder of its rich history, as is the cathedral bell tower, an elegant building decorated with ceramic. The city is home to Monte Orlando Park, a protected area with Roman ruins, Mediterranean vegetation and dive sites.
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
Located on the island of Corsica, Calvi is a beach town with a medieval past. Its cobbled streets climb up to an imposing Genoese Citadel which overlooks a sweeping bay of powdered white sand fringed by maritime pine trees. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be proved to Quai Landry.
Top Things to Do in Calvi:
- take in the views from the citadel
- view Christopher Columbus' house
- visit nearby Ile Rousse
- stroll the rustic streets of Pigna
- drive the scenic south coast
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.
Life On Board
Take a voyage on Le Boreal and enjoy the sophisticated luxury of small ship cruising. Read more
Choose from nine categories of staterooms and suites, all of which offer ocean views. Read more
Whether you choose to dine in the restaurant or at the grill you will savour Ponant's French gastronomy. Read more
Relax on the pool deck, take in the views from the lounges or rejuvenate in the onboard spa. Read more
From the moment you embark your every need will be looked after by the French crew. Read more
Relax and unwind at the spa in a deep aromatherapy bath filled with reviving mineral salts. Read more
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Ponant Exceptional Voyages of Discovery (2026-27)
Alongside iconic expeditions in Antarctica, the Caribbean, Asia and the Atlantic archipelagos, you’ll find pioneering voyages aboard Le Commandant Charcot as it returns to the Far North, including the icy St Lawrence. Enriched by partnerships with Relais & Châteaux and the Club des Chefs des Chefs, these sailings blend exploration with artistry, offering transformative moments both on shore and on board.
USD 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.
