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Ancient Treasures of the Mediterranean Luxury Cruise

Ancient Treasures of the Mediterranean Luxury Cruise

From AUD $7,710

Description

Fall under the spell of the ancient shores of the eastern Mediterranean, between Greece and Turkey, where sun-drenched islands, villages of whitewashed houses, ancient remains and crystal-clear waters combine to create a journey imbued with history and Mediterranean charm. From the volcanic landscapes of the Aegean Sea to the Venetian fortress of Heraklion, each port of call will reveal a fascinating heritage shaped by Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman civilisations. Between wild bays, small medieval streets, mythical ancient sites and shores drenched in sunshine, the cruise offers a unique immersion in the heart of Mediterranean cultures. The crossing of the Dardanelles Strait represents one of the highlights of this escapade, between spectacular panoramas and millennial heritage connecting East and West.

Trip Name
Ancient Treasures of the Mediterranean Luxury Cruise
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Length: 127 metres Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins Built: 2017/2018 Le Lapérouse is the first vessel in the PONANT Explorers series, designed to bring refined luxury to the world’s most remote destinations. With a maximum of 184 guests and 92 beautifully appointed staterooms and suites, the ship combines modern elegance with an intimate atmosphere. Expansive lounges, a theatre, and an infinity pool create inviting spaces for relaxation and connection, while panoramic windows throughout the ship ensure constant connection to the sea. Guests can embark directly from the marina platform for Zodiac excursions or water activities, blending adventure with comfort. On board, Le Lapérouse celebrates the art of French living with world-class gastronomy, serene wellness facilities, and understated sophistication in every detail. The vessel was built with advanced environmental technology, reflecting a commitment to responsible exploration and preservation of the natural world. Whether cruising through Nordic fjords, Mediterranean coastlines, or tropical archipelagos, Le Lapérouse offers an immersive travel experience where discovery, comfort, and elegance converge.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Athens
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.
Day 2 - Day 2 - Heraklion, Crete
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is the island’s most populous city. The hustle and bustle of this seaport is an integral part of its charm. It is built on a hillside overlooking the port and is encircled by impressive Venetian walls. From the top of these, you will be able to enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the city. The old town is teeming with small shops, squares, cafés and vibrant architectural evidence of the city’s long history. The Palace of Knossos illustrates the wealth and power of its legendary sovereign, King Minos. The archaeological museum houses one of the largest collections of Minoan artefacts and is worth a visit.
Day 3 - Day 3 - Rhodes
With its particularly agreeable climate, the island of Rhodes invites you to walk its pathways and discover its immaculate villages and sumptuous medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. At the centre of the island the mountains are covered in forest and on the western slopes we find vineyards and crops. Rhodes also owes much of its charm and its character to the Knights of St John who reigned over the island from 1310 to 1522 and built impressive defensive walls punctuated with majestic gateways. Do not miss this delightful island with its peaceful beaches and its large walkways, perpetuating the myth of the famous Colossus, the legendary statue that is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Patmos
Patmos is one of the legendary must-see islands in the Dodecanese. This is where Saint John resided, presumed author of the last book in the Bible. The cave of the Apocalypse and the Saint John Monastery are dedicated to him. These sites, which are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are located at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer absolutely gorgeous swimming areas.
Day 5 - Day 5 - Kusadasi
The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. You can bathe there in clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk, in the shade of palms. In the historical district, you can take a mosey down the narrow streets and explore the colourful shops in the bazaar. Close by, the Ephesus archaeological site in the hillsides provides an opportunity to discover the ruins of one of the most famous cities of Antiquity.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Dikili
The charming harbour city of Dikili is located on the west coast in the province of Izmir. It’s shoreline of turquoise waters is an invitation to come. In the shade of maritime pines, the streets in the town centre will win your favour with their fresh fruit juice stands and honey cakes. You can also go on a wander inland and visit the Pergamon acropolis.
Day 7 - Day 7 - Istanbul
Located on the Bosphorus, Istanbul is one of the most beautiful of all Turkish cities. Named Byzantium when founded by the Greeks, and then Constantinople under the Roman Empire, this city is steeped in history and, for this reason, is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. Located on Sultanahmet hill, the great Blue Mosque, the mysterious Hagia Sophia and the vast Topkapi palace and its countless mosaics, dominate the Marmara Sea. In the Beyazit district, the Grand Bazaar allows to discover elegant covered passages. A little further away, delicate aroma of loukoum and spices will draw the visitors’ attention at the Egyptian Bazaar.
Day 8 - Day 8 - Istanbul
Located on the Bosphorus, Istanbul is one of the most beautiful of all Turkish cities. Named Byzantium when founded by the Greeks, and then Constantinople under the Roman Empire, this city is steeped in history and, for this reason, is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. Located on Sultanahmet hill, the great Blue Mosque, the mysterious Hagia Sophia and the vast Topkapi palace and its countless mosaics, dominate the Marmara Sea. In the Beyazit district, the Grand Bazaar allows to discover elegant covered passages. A little further away, delicate aroma of loukoum and spices will draw the visitors’ attention at the Egyptian Bazaar.
Day 9 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $7,710Deluxe Stateroom
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $8,100Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 5
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 6
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $20,620Grand Deluxe Suite
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $29,050Owner's Suite
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $8,490Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $8,960Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 6
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 4
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 3
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 5
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $15,930Prestige Suite Deck 5
10-11-202717-11-2027AUD $16,320Prestige Suite Deck 6
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $7,710Deluxe Stateroom
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $8,100Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $8,490Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $8,960Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 5
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 6
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 3
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 4
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $15,930Prestige Suite Deck 5
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $16,320Prestige Suite Deck 6
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 5
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 6
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $20,620Grand Deluxe Suite
17-11-202724-11-2027AUD $29,050Owner's Suite
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $7,710Deluxe Stateroom
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $8,100Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $8,490Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $8,960Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 5
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 6
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 3
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 4
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $15,930Prestige Suite Deck 5
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $16,320Prestige Suite Deck 6
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 5
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 6
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $20,620Grand Deluxe Suite
08-12-202715-12-2027AUD $29,050Owner's Suite
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $7,710Deluxe Stateroom
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $8,100Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $8,490Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $8,960Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 4
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 6
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 5
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $14,360Deluxe Suite Deck 3
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $15,930Prestige Suite Deck 5
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $16,320Prestige Suite Deck 6
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 5
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $17,090Privilege Suite Deck 6
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $20,620Grand Deluxe Suite
15-12-202722-12-2027AUD $29,050Owner's Suite

Inclusions

    • A journey discovering some of Greece and Turkey’s most beautiful ancient sites.
    • In the heart of the Aegean Sea, discovering Greek Islands such as Crete, Patmos and Rhodes.
    • Various UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the ruins of Mycenae; the medieval city of Rhodes; the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse on Patmos; the Ephesus site from Kusadasi.

Map