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Treasures of the Western Mediterranean Luxury Cruise

Treasures of the Western Mediterranean Luxury Cruise

From AUD $9,000

Description

Fall under the spell of the beauty and vibrant heritage of the Mediterranean shores of Italy, France and Spain, including the Iberian island jewel of Menorca.
In the autumn tranquillity, far from the crowds, discover the treasures of these lands shaped over millennia by the Mediterranean.
From Tuscany to the Côte Bleue, sea and rock intertwine, revealing majestic cliffs covered in fragrant maquis, colourful little ports and calanques of turquoise water. On the Catalan coast, the light becomes a paintbrush, setting the red rocks of the Côte Vermeille alight, while long golden beaches, where time seems to stand still, welcome visitors along the Spanish coastlines. On shore, the cities invite you to travel back in time, with their millennial architecture recounting the diverse Mediterranean, marked by Roman, Phoenician and Moorish civilisations. A moment of peace in the heart of the Western Mediterranean.

Trip Name
Treasures of the Western Mediterranean Luxury Cruise
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship Length: 142 meters Passenger Capacity: 264 (in twin cabins, 200 in Antarctica) Built: 2011 Le Boréal, along with her sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal, and Le Lyrial, embodies PONANT’s signature blend of luxury, intimacy, and serene well-being. Designed with both conviviality and tranquillity in mind, she offers inviting shared spaces alongside peaceful retreats for moments of quiet escape. Her sleek exterior and refined interiors reflect the careful thought and craftsmanship that define the fleet, with a décor that captures the spirit of a private yacht. Featuring 132 staterooms and suites, she welcomes up to 264 guests in an atmosphere that feels both elegant and personal. Built in 2010 by Fincantieri in Ancona, Italy, Le Boréal measures 466 ft in length, with a beam of 59 ft, an ice-class 1C hull, and eco-design innovations continually updated to improve her environmental performance. With six passenger decks, 11 Zodiacs for exploration, and attentive French-flag service, she is equally at home navigating icy polar waters or warm, sunlit coasts. Life on board combines refined gastronomy, engaging social activities, and immersive excursions, creating a travel experience where elegance meets adventure.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Livorno
On the ligurian coast, Livorno invites us to Tuscany, a charming region offering archaeological vestiges, Renaissance treasures, undulating landscapes and a pleasant way of life. When the Medicis arrived in the 16th century they developed the city, which became one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean. Cosmopolitan and multireligious, Livorno has welcomed many immigrants and is a wonderful example of cultural diversity. Built during that period, Fortezza Vecchia and Fortezza Nuova attest to the city’s power. At the foot of the new fort, Nuova Venezia is an enchanting district with small canals and streets to stroll along to discover a few architectural treasures, such as the magnificent Santa Caterina da Siena church in the Tuscan baroque style.
Day 2 - Day 2 - Porto Venere
Located on the magnificent chiselled coast of Liguria, to the north-west of the Italian peninsula, Portovenere is an unusual little fishing village. Clinging to the southernmost tip of the Cinque Terre National park, this charming town benefits from an exceptional location, at the mouth of the gulf of La Spezia. As soon as you set foot on land, you will be mesmerised by the pastel shades of the buildings. Via Capellini is its lively and welcoming main street, brimming with shops and restaurants. At the end of a long promenade, a steep road leads to Doria castle. Below, on its rocky spur, the Church of Saint Peter offers a splendid view of Palmaria island.
Day 3 - Day 3 - Monaco
The mere mention of the name Monaco elicits admiration and awakens the imagination. Inaccessible, privileged, well-preserved and envied are just a few words to describe this miniscule state. Sculpted by the waves, the Rock of Monaco is an audacious promontory, home of the princes and the Principality’s treasures. Ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th century, Monaco is a haven of order, luxury and calm that attracts not only the world’s greatest fortunes, but also travellers seeking well-being, a change of scenery, or chasing their dreams.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Cassis
A discreet outpost of the glittering French Riviera, the port of Cassis masterfully plays its Provençal music. Between the stunning calanques coves and Cap Canaille, the town stretches out with charming southern houses, their blinds repainted countless times, while the port exudes such a sunny and recognisable feeling, giving everything here a festive spirit. The surroundings are also well worth the visit: hills drooping beneath the vines, parasol pines curling up into the azure of the sky, prickly pears hanging onto white limestone, the Provence of the Fauvist painters unveils itself in this idyllic spot.
Day 5 - Day 5 - Marseille
The oldest harbour in France, Marseille is the city where PONANT has chosen to set up its company headquarters. Heart vibrating in its setting of Mediterranean Calanques, it reveals its raw and authentic beauty, made up of a thousand influences and cultures which, over the centuries, have made up its wealth. A stroll through the Old Port will allow you to discover the places corresponding to the city founded by the Greeks as well as Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica, with its astonishing neo-Byzantine architecture, which overlooks it. Close to the quays, the Place de Lenche, which covers the ancient agora, will be perfect for a break in one of its lively cafés before melting into the maze of narrow streets with colourful houses in the Panier district, just a stone's throw away.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Port-Vendres
The coastal town of Port-Vendres stands proudly in the heart of the Roussillon region. In the curve of a sheltered bay, Port-Vendres offers a unique blend of historic heritage and exceptional natural scenery. The 17th-century fortifications, erected by Vauban, bear witness to its strategic importance to the defence of France. The coastal town’s many charming features include its cobblestoned streets, edged with houses with colourful façades, which gracefully wind their way to the fishing port, where traditional boats mingle with luxury yachts. In the distance, the foothills of the Albères tumble down to the coast, offering a green setting for this haven of peace where there is a harmonious blend of the hustle and bustle of the quays and the serenity of walks on the ramparts.
Day 7 - Day 7 - Menorca
Minorca’s charm lies in its unspoilt authenticity and varied landscapes. The whitewashed streets of Ciutadella and Mahón invite you to wander through sun-drenched squares and past balconies adorned with flowers, while the harbours come alive with the to-and-fro of boats and bustling pavement cafés. The coves with turquoise waters and beaches of fine sand are the perfect setting for a swim or a spot of relaxation. With its historic heritage, picturesque villages and unspoilt nature, Minorca reveals a subtle Mediterranean charm, offering a gentle way of life and breathtaking panoramas.
Day 8 - Days 8 - 9 - Valencia
Valencia - the city of Art and Sciences. Two hearts beat in this Spanish city: one is modern, avantgarde and almost futuristic; the other is more provincial, more traditional and nostalgic. Valencia has the temperament of a great Mediterranean city whose wide avenues form a border around the old town. The city has an abundance of architectural styles that coexist harmoniously, but above all it resolutely embraces the 21st Century with the futuristic structures of its Agora congress centre and City of Arts and Sciences, emerging from a crystal blue pool.
Day 9 - Day 10 - Cartagena
Surrounded by hills, the natural site of the Bay of Carthagena presided over the fate of this former fortress which has been home to the greatest European civilisations. Today, these Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Moorish and Christian influences form a rich architectural heritage. Its Roman theatre is one of the most significant and best conserved in Spain. You will also be able to cross the landscapes of vines and citrus groves stretching endlessly towards Murcia, to visit this dynamic regional capital.
Day 10 - Day 11 - Malaga
A historical and festive town, Malaga is located in Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising out from the cypresses and maritime pines. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, you will go first to the courtly plaza de la Merced. A few streets back from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist, in the Buenavista palace.
Day 11 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $9,000Superior Stateroom
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $9,490Deluxe Stateroom
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $9,990Prestige Deck 4
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $10,480Prestige Deck 5
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $11,060Prestige Deck 6
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $17,840Deluxe Suite
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $19,800Prestige Deck 5 Suite
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $20,290Prestige Deck 6 Suite
03-10-202713-10-2027AUD $35,680Owner's Suite

Inclusions

    • Discover the exceptional heritage of the Italian, French and Spanish shores, sailing between iconic Mediterranean towns in the autumn, a gentle and quiet season.
    • Pristine nature (Calanques National Park; Menorca
    • a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) and remarkable historic sites (Porto Venere, Avignon from Marseille, the Silk Exchange in Valencia, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites).
    • Among your included excursions: visit to Collioure from the port of Port-Vendres Albufera Park from Valencia; a cavalcade at a finca in Cartagena, etc.

Map