Deluxe Kabine
19 m2
2
Von der Insel Malta nach Athen – begeben Sie sich mit PONANT auf eine Reise mit zwei Zwischenstopps auf Sizilien und vier in Griechenland, die außergewöhnliche Erlebnisse verspricht.
In Valletta, der Hauptstadt von Malta und ehemaligen Hochburg des Ritterordens, läuft die Le Bougainville zu einer 8-tägigen Kreuzfahrt auf einem Meer voller Geschichte aus.
Nach einem Stopp in Catania, das seine Spätbarock-Bauwerke am Fuße des Ätna ausbreitet, nimmt Ihr Schiff Kurs auf Taormina.
In Taormina bummeln die Besucher durch die Gassen zum beeindruckenden antiken Theater, einem Wunderwerk der Akustik. Und im Hintergrund immer der majestätische Ätna.
Dann steuert die Le Bougainville nach der Fahrt durch das Ionische Meer den ersten griechischen Anlaufhafen Katakolo an. Vom Hafen aus können Sie Olympia besuchen, Welterbe der UNESCO, dessen Ruinen von einer großartigen Vergangenheit erzählen.
Anschließend geht es weiter nach Süden in das charmante Monemvasla. Diese wunderschöne Halbinsel ist ein romantischer Urlaubsort der Athener und beherbergt in den gewölbten Gassen ihres befestigten mittelalterlichen Dorfes Schätze der venezianischen und byzantinischen Architektur.
Anschließend geht es nach Nafplio, einer charmanten Stadt und Ausgangspunkt für einen Besuch des berühmten Theaters von Epidauros und Mykene, UNESCO-Welterbe.
Sie entdecken Hydra, eine kleine Insel mit ursprünglichem Charme, auf der Autos verboten sind.
Diese wunderschöne Reise endet in Athen.
Ref : EG010623
Eine Kreuzfahrt zu den symbolträchtigen Orten und Inselschätzen des westlichen Mittelmeers. UNESCO-Welterbestätten: die Ruinen von Mykene und das Theater auf Epidauros (von Nafplio aus), die Akropolis in...
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Zusatzleistungen
Für mehr Sicherheit wählt PONANT Flüge aus und kümmert sich um Ihre Transfers für Ihre Reise sowie um Landbesuche vor und nach dem Ausschiffen.
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*Preis pro Person auf Basis einer Doppelkabine. Dieser Preis gilt vorbehaltlich Verfügbarkeit und basiert auf der Auslastung des jeweiligen Schiffes. Die Kabinenkategorie, für die dieser Preis gilt, ist möglichweise nicht mehr verfügbar
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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:
For men:
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:
For men:
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:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
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 Aktivitäten
Einschiffung 01.06.2023 von 16:00 bis 17:00
Abfahrt 01.06.2023 um 18:00
Die vollständig zum UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe erklärte Hauptstadt Valletta erstreckt sich über eine Halbinsel im Nordwesten von Malta. Vom Tritonbrunnen bis zum Fort St. Elmo biete die Stadt ebenso vielen majestätischen Straßen wie treppenförmig angelegten Gassen. Die farbigen Loggien und die verzierten Erker der hohen Wohngebäude begleiten Sie bei Ihrer Entdeckungstour, die selten von Autos gestört wird. Besichtigen Sie den mit Wappen und Fresken geschmückten Großmeisterpalast. Die St.-Johannes-Kathedrale sowie die seit dem 16. Jh. die Stadt schützenden Wehrmauern gehören auch zu den bedeutendsten Bauwerken der Stadt. Die in Terrassen angelegten Gärten von Barraca verleihen Ihrem Rundgang eine grüne und blühende Note.
Ankunft 02.06.2023 mittags
Abfahrt 02.06.2023 am frühen Abend
Auf halbem Weg zwischen Messina und Syrakus erhebt sich die mächtige Silhouette des Ätnas über die kleine Stadt Catania. Dieser von Rauchwolken umhüllte Riese, Nährvater und Zerstörer zugleich, begrub Ende des 17. Jahrhunderts große Teile der Stadt unter Lavaströmen; sie wurde im spätbarocken Baustil wiederaufgebaut. Aufgrund zahlreicher Bauwerke aus dieser Zeit wurde sie zum UNESCO-Welterbe erklärt. Entdecken Sie die der Heiligen Agathe geweihte Kathedrale mit ihren hohen Apsiden aus Lavagestein und den Elefantenbrunnen, das Wahrzeichen der Stadt, auf ihrem Vorplatz. Es heißt, der Elefant habe die Macht, die Wut des Ätnas zu zügeln …
Ankunft 03.06.2023 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 03.06.2023 mittags
Der an der Ostküste Siziliens in der Provinz Messina gelegene Badeort Taormina gilt als Saint-Tropez der Insel: Kulturerbe, lauschige Strände und Luxus-Shopping haben sich hier vereint. Sie können das 300 Meter über dem Wasser befindliche mittelalterliche Zentrum besichtigen, dessen Terrassen einen freien Blick auf das Mittelmeer eröffnen. Ein weiteres Zeugnis der Vergangenheit der Stadt sind die Ruinen des griechisch-römischen Theaters. Diese äußerst gut erhaltene Stätte zieht Besuchern an, die von der natürlichen Schönheit des Ortes oberhalb einer türkisfarbenen Bucht fasziniert sind.
Ankunft 04.06.2023 am frühen Nachmittag
Abfahrt 04.06.2023 abends
Dieses malerische Küstendorf erstreckt sich am Ionischen Meer im Westen des Peloponnes. Dessen Hauptkai bietet Ihnen einen weiten Ausblick auf die bewaldeten Hügel der Küste. Die strahlend weiße St.-Nikolaus-Kirche verfügt über eine reiche Ausstattung mit Ikonen. Sie haben auch die einmalige Gelegenheit, die Ausgrabungsstätte von Olympia an den Hängen des Kronos zu besichtigen.
Ankunft 05.06.2023 mittags
Abfahrt 05.06.2023 abends
Monemvasia im Süden des Peloponnes ist bei romantiksuchenden Athenern ein beliebtes Ausflugsziel. Am Fuße des steilen Felsens dieser majestätischen Halbinsel, die den poetischen Beinamen „Steinschiff, das die Segel setzt“ trägt, steht eine verblüffende mittelalterliche Festungsstadt, die wie von Gotteshand aus der Ägäis aufgetaucht zu sein schein. Beobachten Sie auf der Festungsmauer, die zum Schutz vor den Wellen errichtet wurde, den Horizont, und flanieren Sie unter den Gewölben durch die ockerfarbenen Gässchen. Am Zusammenfluss der östlichen und westlichen Einflüsse und der Meeresrouten zwischen dem Kontinent, Kreta und den Kykladen birgt Monemvasia vor dieser märchenhaften Kulisse kostbare Schätze der venezianischen und byzantinischen Architektur.
Ankunft 06.06.2023 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 06.06.2023 abends
Die schöne Stadt Nauplio erstreckt sich stufenförmig an den grünen Hängen des Argolischen Golfs im Osten des Peloponnes. Sie ermöglicht Ihnen, ein sehr mannigfaltiges Kulturerbe zu entdecken. Sehenswert sind zum Beispiel die antike Agora auf dem Akronafplia-Plateau, die Arkaden im italienischen Stil des Syntagma-Platzes und die barocke Festung Palamidi auf dem gleichnamigen Hügel. Von ganz oben bezaubert die Panoramaaussicht auf den Golf und die umliegenden Berge. Um sich am Wasser zu entspannen, folgen Sie der Arvanitia-Promenade zu einer schönen kleinen Felsbucht im Schatten von Zedern und Zypressen.
Ankunft 07.06.2023 am späten Vormittag
Abfahrt 07.06.2023 am späten Nachmittag
Dieses ungewöhnliche Etappenziel der Saronischen Inseln liegt östlich des Peloponnes. Hydra ist autofrei. Die gleichnamige Hafenstadt liegt stufenförmig an den Hängen einer bergigen Bucht. Sie erstaunt durch ihre unverputzten Häuser. Diese gehören zu den Traditionen, ebenso wie die an den Kais festgemachten farbenfrohen Kaiks. Etwas weiter an der Küste haben Sie die Möglichkeit zur Entdeckung des Historisches Archiv-Museums, sowie der Sammlungen des Museums für nationale Geschichte von Athen, die in der eleganten Villa Koundouriotis ausgestellt werden.
Ankunft 08.06.2023 am frühen Vormittag
Ausschiffung 08.06.2023 um 07:00
Die griechische Hauptstadt liegt am Rande des Saronischen Golfs im Osten des Landes. Der Name Athen stand einst im Plural und bezog sich auf die ersten Dörfer, welche die Akropolis umgaben. Dieses Felsplateau mit historischen Bauwerken, die zum UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe gehören, ist einfach bezaubernd. Weiter unten haben Sie die Gelegenheit, eines der lebhaftesten Viertel von Athen zu besichtigen: Plaka mit seinem Gewirr aus bunten Gässchen, die am Abend nach Moussaka und Garnelen mit Knoblauch duften. Das Archäologische Nationalmuseum und das Museum für kykladische Kunst gehören auch zu den wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten der Stadt und erlauben es, die glanzvolle kulturelle Vergangenheit Athens zu entdecken.
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your 1-hour and 15 minutes panoramic drive to Acireale.
You will drive along the Ionian Sea on the famous “Cyclops Riviera” with the “Faraglioni” rocks and pass by the village of Aci Castello with its Norman Castle of black lava, and the small fishing village of Aci Trezza.
After a brief photo stop and a local granita tasting, you will return towards Catania and enjoy a short sightseeing tour of the city centre: Piazza Verga, Via Etnea, Villa Bellini, Piazza Stesicoro.
Stop near the Cathedral square and start the walking tour of the city centre: Piazza del Duomo, the central square with the elephant’s fountain and the Cathedral (outside visit) originally built by the Normans with its finely made choir stalls.
Following your short walking tour, you will enjoy some free time to browse the shops at your leisure before re-boarding your coach for the return drive to the pier.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 50 €
From the pier, you will be transferred to the centre of Catania, the second largest metropolitan city of Sicily. You will discover Catania through one of the most important aspect in the Italian culture: food and cooking.
Begin your “tasting walking tour” with a stop in a local pastry shop, or pasticceria. There, you will enjoy eating an arancino, a fried rice ball with various fillings such as cheese, meats and vegetables. While a favourite in Italy, the real arancini are Sicilian.
After your first taste of Sicily, walk along Via Etnea, Catania’s main street, where you will see the cathedral and the historical centre of the town. You will then reach the Fish Market. This ancient street market is always a wonderful cacophony of exotic sights and sounds, with locals selling everything from blood oranges to cuttlefish. Watch tuna and swordfish being prepared by the local fish mongers, next to aged sheep cheeses or cured meats. You will have free time to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this magical market that is unlike any other in the world.
Then, you will walk a few blocks from there to a nearby pastry shop for a tasting of a delicious Sicilian-style cannoli crafted by a local Sicilian pastry master. This classic dessert consists of tube-shaped, fried pastry dough filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese then rolled with pistachios or candied fruits to finish.
At the end of your tour, you will walk back to the pier.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 60 €
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to Syracusa and its archaeological site, 1-hour drive.
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for fights between gladiators and wild beasts, the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century BC to celebrate the “Eleutherian Feast”, the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons, the Ear of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo and the Greek Theatre, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, constructed in the 5th century BC and successively enlarged.
Upon completion of the visit, re-board your coach for the short drive to Ortygia, which you will visit on foot. On Ortygia Island discover the Piazza Pancali (the ruins of the Temple of Apollo of the 6th century BC), Corso Matteotti, Archimede’s Place, Piazza Duomo. Visit the Cathedral in Baroque style, erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva: in the interiors, see the undamaged twelve Doric columns. Then visit the fountain of Arethusa, the nymph praised by Pindar and Virgilio in one of the most touching and fine myths. Several nobility palaces – majority of them originating to then 15th and 16th century – will be seen from outside during the walking tour.
Return to the port and your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 80 €
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a 30-minute drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You will start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You will then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 70 €
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your excursion with a 45-minutes drive through the small town of Naxos, founded by Greek colonisers in the 8th century B.C.- towards Aci Trezza (a small fishing village in the province of Catania) where the Rodolico’s shipwrights ancient yard is located.
The shipwrights have been shaping the wood for thousands of years, giving life to constructions that still sail our waters today. A real art which combines the skills of a designer, naval engineer, carpenter, but also an artist.
The Shipyard of Rodolico family has been operating in Aci Trezza for five generations, holder of this ancient, noble and precious profession which has almost disappeared but full of history, folklore and traditions to be remembered and preserved. The Shipyard was born at the end of 19th century when the Rodolicos began to build rowing and sailing boats for customers in Catania.
In 2014 the family, has been declared, by the Regional Department of Cultural Heritage and Sicilian Identity, intangible heritage of humanity of the Sicily Region. Their "trezzote wooden boats" have been entered in the Register of Intangible Heritage, Book of Trades, of Knowledge and Techniques, of the locality of Aci Trezza.
After the visit of the shipyard, you will reboard the coach and drive back to your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 150 €
From the pier, you will board your coach for a drive to the site of Olympia, in the Alpheus valley on the slopes of Mount Cronion. Entering the Olympia sanctuary is like going back nearly 2,800 years in time, when the first edition of the Olympic Games took place in the 7th century BC. With every step, you will discover Olympia's numerous treasures: temples, altars, theatres, and marble and bronze statues. The location is an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989.
The Altis enclosed a levelled space about 200 metres long and 177 metres wide, dedicated to the main centres of worship and the buildings associated with the organisation of the games. The oldest of the great Greek temples is the Temple of Hera, which is probably the first known Doric building, built around 600 BC. It houses the table on which garlands for the winners were prepared. The most celebrated of the temples of Zeus is located here in Olympia, and once featured an ivory and gold statue of the god, a masterpiece by the sculptor Phidias made in 436 BC. The temple was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Next to it is the Zeus altar where offerings were made in honour of the god. The votive temples comprised a row of chapels referred to as the "Treasure houses", which received the Greek people's offerings. Below the terrace of Treasure houses you will note the presence of a row of 16 statues of Zeus, paid for with money from heavy fines imposed by the Olympic judges on athletes who cheated or attempted to win by devious means. Outside to the east of the Altis were the access tunnel to the stadium, which had a large racetrack of 192.25 metres, and the hippodrome where the sporting events took place. The terraced seats of the stadium could accommodate 40,000 spectators.
Your visit would not be complete without stopping at the Olympia Museum, which brings together under one roof all the discoveries made on the site, including the sculptured ornaments from the Temple of Zeus.
Inbegriffen
Monemvasia, often referred as the “Gibraltar of Greece”, is undoubtedly unique with its fortified medieval town built on a reddish-brown rock and surrounded by the blue sea.
Board your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old stone built mansions, the picturesque lanes and the numerous Byzantine churches create an environment of superb beauty.
Monemvasia is split in two, the lower town and the upper town. Walking on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
Following your walking tour, you will board your coach outside the entrance of Monemvasia medieval town for a short drive to the traditional “Olive Press” house (Liotrivi). This was the family house of the great Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos where he spent his summers. You will be guided around the property which includes an olive press Museum and a wine cellar area. You will also have the chance to taste the olive oil and the Monemvasian wines together with handmade local products such as olives, oregano and feta cheese. You will see how to prepare the delicious fresh homemade bread.
You will then return to Monemvasia to board your tender back to the ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 80 €
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Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 55 €
From the pier, board your coach for a 1.5-hour ride to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
In ancient times, Corinth was among the richest cities, as evidenced by its remains including the huge Agora (market square) and the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo. The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, continue today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations also extended to the Acrocorinth’s fortress, the prehistoric settlements, the theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepion, the cemeteries, the Potters’ Quarter, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 6.3 km (4 miles) long, 21 metres (70 feet) wide, and has sloping sides up to 52 metres (170 feet) high. It has a water depth of 8 metres (26 feet). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas to provide a shortcut appears to date as far back as Roman times. You will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos from the top.
Following your short stop to admire the canal, you will board your coach for one hour ride back to Nafplion.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 70 €
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Epidaurus.
At a distance of 18.5 miles (30 km) east from Nafplion, lies Epidaurus known for its ancient theatre. Considered as one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of Medicine, Asklepios. The world-famous Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can welcome 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a drive to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lions Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Nafplion.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 85 €
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, port and waterfront unspoiled by motorised vehicles. This island offers a rugged charm and many scenes to discover.
From the pier, follow your guide on a walking exploration through the island's historical landmarks. Your first stop will be the Hydra Museum - Historical Archives where you may admire 19th century paintings of considerable artistic value as well as rich documental and photographic material detailing the long maritime tradition and history of the island.
Continuing your walk around the port, you will visit the Church of the Dormitian, which houses icons, chandeliers and other offerings from the wealthy seafarers of the island. It is even said one of the chandeliers was stolen from Louis XIV and given to the church.
Enjoy a coffee break or a refreshment together with Hydra's local sweet "amygdaloto".
Next, reach Koundouriotis Mansion, one of the finest examples of the traditional 18th and 19th century architecture of Hydra. Built in 1780 by the ship owner Lazaros Koundouriotis, it now houses various items from the National Historical Museum of Athens, such as traditional costumes, jewellery, fine embroideries, pottery and wood-carvings.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Hydra's little alleys and stone houses before your return to the port.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 50 €
Lektor
An Bord Ihres Schiffes bieten Ihnen ausgewählte Lektoren kulturelle und historische Einblicke, damit Sie noch mehr über Ihr Reiseziel erfahren können: den Ursprung der lokalen Traditionen, die Geschichte symbolischer Orte, berühmte Persönlichkeiten und historische Helden... Die Experten begleiten Sie während der gesamten Kreuzfahrt, an Bord und bei den Ausflügen an Land, um ihr Know-how und ihre Einsichten mit Ihnen zu teilen.
Unsere Zusatzleistungen
01.06.2023 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + WINE TASTING IN MALTA (PRE) + ATHENS, THE ACROPOLIS MUSEUM AND PLAKA (POST)
570 €
Details31.05.2023 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + PRE VISIT OF MDINA GOURMET LUNCH AND WINE TASTING 1N (PRE) + ATHENS, THE ACROPOLIS MUSEUM AND PLAKA (POST)
970 €
Details
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Valletta
Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to your hotel The Phoenica 5*.
Check-in in your room.
The end of the day and dinner are at leisure.
Day 2 – Valletta
Set off from your hotel with a local guide and start your day by visiting Mdina. Take a stroll through the Silent City’s narrow streets and visit the Mdina cathedral and fortifications. Mdina, Malta’s Old Capital, was used as a filming location for the movie Black Eagle, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, and for the Game of Thrones series. With its extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city.
You will then proceed to a local boutique winery, where wine is produced on an estate comprising four hectares of terraced vineyards. It was built with weathered limestone blocks that perfectly blend old-world charm with practical, modern architectural touches. About 15,000 vines are planted on this estate, along with around 200 olive trees plus fig trees, carob trees, and other indigenous Maltese flora. After the visit, you will have the opportunity to taste three fine wines.
This will be followed by a fine meal at a local gourmet restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the port in time for embarkation onboard your ship.
Your hotel:
The luxurious Phoenicia Hotel 5* dates back to 1935. Surrounded by seven acres of gardens, it is ideally located next to the Triton Fountain in Valletta's City Gate Square, just outside the ancient city walls. The rooms are spacious and elegant with modern furnishings. You have a choice of three restaurants, serving a range of Maltese and Mediterranean food. The pool bar and restaurant offer a resort-style setting overlooking Grand Harbour. The hotel is also equipped with a gym and spa. Wi-Fi is available to all guests, throughout the hotel.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Phoenicia Hotel
The Mall Floriana
FRN 1478, MALTA
Telephone number: +356 2122 5241
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 540 €
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between airport and embarkation port.
Valletta
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
Then, proceed to Mdina - Malta’s Old Capital, one of the locations used by the film “Black Eagle” featuring Jean-Claude Van Damme, and by “Game of Thrones” series. Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city, with its extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture.
Continue with the visit of Palazzo Parisio, a unique 19th century palace in the heart of the Mediterranean. Palazzo Parisio is not only another palace of the legendary Knights of St. John, but the ultimate memorial of ambitions, aspirations and pretensions of a 19th century noble family. It houses two baroque walled gardens, including a lovely orangery – a miniature Versailles.
Enjoy a small snack in the Palace.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Duration and price of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. 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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 130 €
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your 1-hour and 15 minutes panoramic drive to Acireale.
You will drive along the Ionian Sea on the famous “Cyclops Riviera” with the “Faraglioni” rocks and pass by the village of Aci Castello with its Norman Castle of black lava, and the small fishing village of Aci Trezza.
After a brief photo stop and a local granita tasting, you will return towards Catania and enjoy a short sightseeing tour of the city centre: Piazza Verga, Via Etnea, Villa Bellini, Piazza Stesicoro.
Stop near the Cathedral square and start the walking tour of the city centre: Piazza del Duomo, the central square with the elephant’s fountain and the Cathedral (outside visit) originally built by the Normans with its finely made choir stalls.
Following your short walking tour, you will enjoy some free time to browse the shops at your leisure before re-boarding your coach for the return drive to the pier.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 50 €
From the pier, you will be transferred to the centre of Catania, the second largest metropolitan city of Sicily. You will discover Catania through one of the most important aspect in the Italian culture: food and cooking.
Begin your “tasting walking tour” with a stop in a local pastry shop, or pasticceria. There, you will enjoy eating an arancino, a fried rice ball with various fillings such as cheese, meats and vegetables. While a favourite in Italy, the real arancini are Sicilian.
After your first taste of Sicily, walk along Via Etnea, Catania’s main street, where you will see the cathedral and the historical centre of the town. You will then reach the Fish Market. This ancient street market is always a wonderful cacophony of exotic sights and sounds, with locals selling everything from blood oranges to cuttlefish. Watch tuna and swordfish being prepared by the local fish mongers, next to aged sheep cheeses or cured meats. You will have free time to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this magical market that is unlike any other in the world.
Then, you will walk a few blocks from there to a nearby pastry shop for a tasting of a delicious Sicilian-style cannoli crafted by a local Sicilian pastry master. This classic dessert consists of tube-shaped, fried pastry dough filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese then rolled with pistachios or candied fruits to finish.
At the end of your tour, you will walk back to the pier.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 60 €
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to Syracusa and its archaeological site, 1-hour drive.
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for fights between gladiators and wild beasts, the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century BC to celebrate the “Eleutherian Feast”, the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons, the Ear of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo and the Greek Theatre, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, constructed in the 5th century BC and successively enlarged.
Upon completion of the visit, re-board your coach for the short drive to Ortygia, which you will visit on foot. On Ortygia Island discover the Piazza Pancali (the ruins of the Temple of Apollo of the 6th century BC), Corso Matteotti, Archimede’s Place, Piazza Duomo. Visit the Cathedral in Baroque style, erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva: in the interiors, see the undamaged twelve Doric columns. Then visit the fountain of Arethusa, the nymph praised by Pindar and Virgilio in one of the most touching and fine myths. Several nobility palaces – majority of them originating to then 15th and 16th century – will be seen from outside during the walking tour.
Return to the port and your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 80 €
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a 30-minute drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You will start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You will then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 70 €
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your excursion with a 45-minutes drive through the small town of Naxos, founded by Greek colonisers in the 8th century B.C.- towards Aci Trezza (a small fishing village in the province of Catania) where the Rodolico’s shipwrights ancient yard is located.
The shipwrights have been shaping the wood for thousands of years, giving life to constructions that still sail our waters today. A real art which combines the skills of a designer, naval engineer, carpenter, but also an artist.
The Shipyard of Rodolico family has been operating in Aci Trezza for five generations, holder of this ancient, noble and precious profession which has almost disappeared but full of history, folklore and traditions to be remembered and preserved. The Shipyard was born at the end of 19th century when the Rodolicos began to build rowing and sailing boats for customers in Catania.
In 2014 the family, has been declared, by the Regional Department of Cultural Heritage and Sicilian Identity, intangible heritage of humanity of the Sicily Region. Their "trezzote wooden boats" have been entered in the Register of Intangible Heritage, Book of Trades, of Knowledge and Techniques, of the locality of Aci Trezza.
After the visit of the shipyard, you will reboard the coach and drive back to your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 150 €
From the pier, you will board your coach for a drive to the site of Olympia, in the Alpheus valley on the slopes of Mount Cronion. Entering the Olympia sanctuary is like going back nearly 2,800 years in time, when the first edition of the Olympic Games took place in the 7th century BC. With every step, you will discover Olympia's numerous treasures: temples, altars, theatres, and marble and bronze statues. The location is an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989.
The Altis enclosed a levelled space about 200 metres long and 177 metres wide, dedicated to the main centres of worship and the buildings associated with the organisation of the games. The oldest of the great Greek temples is the Temple of Hera, which is probably the first known Doric building, built around 600 BC. It houses the table on which garlands for the winners were prepared. The most celebrated of the temples of Zeus is located here in Olympia, and once featured an ivory and gold statue of the god, a masterpiece by the sculptor Phidias made in 436 BC. The temple was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Next to it is the Zeus altar where offerings were made in honour of the god. The votive temples comprised a row of chapels referred to as the "Treasure houses", which received the Greek people's offerings. Below the terrace of Treasure houses you will note the presence of a row of 16 statues of Zeus, paid for with money from heavy fines imposed by the Olympic judges on athletes who cheated or attempted to win by devious means. Outside to the east of the Altis were the access tunnel to the stadium, which had a large racetrack of 192.25 metres, and the hippodrome where the sporting events took place. The terraced seats of the stadium could accommodate 40,000 spectators.
Your visit would not be complete without stopping at the Olympia Museum, which brings together under one roof all the discoveries made on the site, including the sculptured ornaments from the Temple of Zeus.
Inbegriffen
Monemvasia, often referred as the “Gibraltar of Greece”, is undoubtedly unique with its fortified medieval town built on a reddish-brown rock and surrounded by the blue sea.
Board your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old stone built mansions, the picturesque lanes and the numerous Byzantine churches create an environment of superb beauty.
Monemvasia is split in two, the lower town and the upper town. Walking on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
Following your walking tour, you will board your coach outside the entrance of Monemvasia medieval town for a short drive to the traditional “Olive Press” house (Liotrivi). This was the family house of the great Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos where he spent his summers. You will be guided around the property which includes an olive press Museum and a wine cellar area. You will also have the chance to taste the olive oil and the Monemvasian wines together with handmade local products such as olives, oregano and feta cheese. You will see how to prepare the delicious fresh homemade bread.
You will then return to Monemvasia to board your tender back to the ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 80 €
False
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 55 €
From the pier, board your coach for a 1.5-hour ride to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
In ancient times, Corinth was among the richest cities, as evidenced by its remains including the huge Agora (market square) and the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo. The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, continue today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations also extended to the Acrocorinth’s fortress, the prehistoric settlements, the theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepion, the cemeteries, the Potters’ Quarter, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 6.3 km (4 miles) long, 21 metres (70 feet) wide, and has sloping sides up to 52 metres (170 feet) high. It has a water depth of 8 metres (26 feet). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas to provide a shortcut appears to date as far back as Roman times. You will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos from the top.
Following your short stop to admire the canal, you will board your coach for one hour ride back to Nafplion.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 70 €
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Epidaurus.
At a distance of 18.5 miles (30 km) east from Nafplion, lies Epidaurus known for its ancient theatre. Considered as one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of Medicine, Asklepios. The world-famous Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can welcome 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a drive to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lions Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Nafplion.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 85 €
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, port and waterfront unspoiled by motorised vehicles. This island offers a rugged charm and many scenes to discover.
From the pier, follow your guide on a walking exploration through the island's historical landmarks. Your first stop will be the Hydra Museum - Historical Archives where you may admire 19th century paintings of considerable artistic value as well as rich documental and photographic material detailing the long maritime tradition and history of the island.
Continuing your walk around the port, you will visit the Church of the Dormitian, which houses icons, chandeliers and other offerings from the wealthy seafarers of the island. It is even said one of the chandeliers was stolen from Louis XIV and given to the church.
Enjoy a coffee break or a refreshment together with Hydra's local sweet "amygdaloto".
Next, reach Koundouriotis Mansion, one of the finest examples of the traditional 18th and 19th century architecture of Hydra. Built in 1780 by the ship owner Lazaros Koundouriotis, it now houses various items from the National Historical Museum of Athens, such as traditional costumes, jewellery, fine embroideries, pottery and wood-carvings.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Hydra's little alleys and stone houses before your return to the port.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 50 €
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Athens
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will be taken by coach for an exploration of one of the oldest cities in Europe, Athens.
You will enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of the city. 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 arrive at the Acropolis Museum, which was opened in June 2009. The architecture of the whole venue has been designed to emulate the cult of the Temple of Athena. At the foot of the sacred hill, the building’s rear facade of concrete and glass seems to billow out with the weight of its history, and it is from here that you will have your first view of the Parthenon. The museum provides a magnificent setting for the treasures discovered on the hill. The first gallery houses the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens and the glass floor provides a view of the archaeological excavations, giving you the impression of being in the very heart of these ancient ruins.
At the end of the morning, you will be taken to the Plaka Old District located at the bottom of the Acropolis, in the historic heart of Athens. You will have some free time (about 45 minutes or more depending on your flight return) to explore on foot Plaka’s pedestrian shopping streets where you will find jewellery stores, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 90 €
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 570 €
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : 970 €