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From the Iberian Shores to the Italian Coast Luxury Cruise

From the Iberian Shores to the Italian Coast Luxury Cruise

From AUD $8,900

Description

Sail along the timeless shores of the Western Mediterranean when you embark on this cruise connecting the jewels of Spain, Italy, and Malta. The islands and shorelines are bathed in warm light and striking contrasts when the sun caresses the coasts of Spain, the Balearic Islands, Sicily, and Italy. As you sail between these lands shaped by successive civilizations, immerse yourself in pristine nature and vibrant heritage.
Over the course of this cruise, experience the Mediterranean spirit as you journey between hidden coves and ports brimming with history. Here, each stopover reveals a new horizon, a fragment of art, architecture or tradition. The landscapes sculpted by wind and sea, the ancient cities bathed in golden light, and volcanoes rising on the horizon all speak of a rich past that lives on in the cobbled streets and baroque palaces. From the gentle island life of the Balearics to the untamed power of the Sicilian coast, the elegant shores of Calabria and the bastions of Malta, savour the magic of this unique journey.

Trip Name
From the Iberian Shores to the Italian Coast Luxury Cruise
Days
10
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins Built: 2017/2018 Le Dumont d’Urville is one of PONANT’s state-of-the-art Explorer-class yachts, designed to combine refined French sophistication with immersive expedition travel. Hosting a maximum of 184 guests across 92 elegantly appointed staterooms and suites, the ship offers an intimate cruising experience defined by comfort, style, and innovation. Expansive lounge areas, a panoramic theatre, and multiple bars create inviting spaces to relax and socialise, while the infinity pool seamlessly blends into the sea views. From the marina platform, guests can easily embark on Zodiac excursions or enjoy water activities in serene surroundings. Every detail aboard Le Dumont d’Urville reflects a celebration of nature and discovery. Guests enjoy world-class gastronomy, a serene spa and fitness area, and advanced technology that supports environmentally responsible exploration. Purpose-built for navigating diverse destinations — from Nordic fjords and Mediterranean coastlines to Caribbean islands and Arctic waterways — this sleek, modern vessel embodies the art of travel at sea: luxurious, sustainable, and deeply connected to the natural world.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Days 1 - 2 - 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 2 - Day 3 - 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 3 - Day 4 - Ibiza, Balearic Islands
The emblematic island of the Balearics, “the white island” was a haven for European artistic bohemians from the 1930s and a paradise for hippies in search of authenticity in the 1960s. It has been a giant nightclub for gilded youth since the 1990s. Behind this fiesta economy, Ibiza has managed to preserve the charms of its wild coves and its villages of white fincas with flat roofs that inspired Le Corbusier. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its exemplary marine and coastal ecosystems but also thanks to the architectural vestiges of this former stronghold of the Mediterranean economy, from the Phoenicians up to the Renaissance.
Day 4 - Day 5 - Mahon, Balearic Islands
You will be welcomed by the colourful houses of Mahon, its narrow streets and pretty squares that appear as you stroll around this richly contrasting city. Mahon reveals its different neighbourhoods, alternating between monuments, villas and white buildings. Discover the Santa Maria church, a building of neo-gothic inspiration, rebuilt in the 18th Century. It is worth a visit to see its monumental organ with more than 3,000 pipes and four keyboards. Around the Carmen church you will find a local market, full of stands selling avarcas, typical Menorcan sandals originally made by peasants. Let yourself fall under the spell of this Mediterranean treasure.
Day 5 - Day 6 - At sea
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.
Day 6 - Day 7 - Palermo, Sicily
Palermo is the guardian of the Sicilian soul. Many have been attracted to this city, the largest capital of the Italian islands. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans... Palermo is a rich culmination of so many cultural influences as seen in the Moorish designs on the cathedral, and the Byzantine mosaics of the Palatine chapel, which is itself housed within the precincts of the Norman palace. You will fall under the spell of the palaces, baroque splendours that grace the town with their obsolete beauty. It is thrilling to stumble upon one of those fabulous markets, high in colour, and headily picturesque.
Day 7 - Day 8 - Sailing in front of Stromboli
Like Ulysses during his Odyssey, you will have the opportunity to admire the Stromboli, the capricious volcano that looms over the Aeolian Islands. Its activity, uninterrupted for thousands of years, has earned it the nickname the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean”.
Day 8 - Day 8 - Reggio di Calabria
At the southern tip of the Italian boot, Reggio di Calabria guards the eastern shore of the Strait of Messina. From the lungomare, the sea front promenade, there are magnificent views over Sicily, a little over 3 km away, and Etna. Rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, Reggio is set out in a grid pattern and has Art Nouveau and Belle Époque architecture that add to its charm. And the fragrance of bergamot, the citrus fruit that dominates the region’s confectionery and perfumery. 
Day 9 - Day 9 - Syracuse, Sicily
Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.
Day 10 - Day 10 - Valletta
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.
Day 11 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $8,900Deluxe Stateroom
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $9,360Prestige Deck 4
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $19,940Privilege Suite Deck 5
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $19,940Privilege Suite Deck 6
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $24,070Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $24,070Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $34,110Owner's Suite
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $9,810Prestige Deck 5
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $10,370Prestige Deck 6
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $16,720Deluxe Suite Deck 4
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $16,720Deluxe Suite Deck 3
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $16,720Deluxe Suite Deck 5
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $16,720Deluxe Suite Deck 6
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $18,560Prestige Deck 5 Suite
04-04-202713-04-2027AUD $19,020Prestige Deck 6 Suite

Inclusions

    • A springtime escapade from the Spanish coast to Sicily via the Balearic Islands, featuring cultural visits and Mediterranean landscapes.
    • Discover a rich past (Cartagena, Malaga), exceptional nature (Balearic Islands, Sicily), and the thrill of a unique experience as you sail past the Stromboli volcano.
    • A few of the included excursions: discover Palermo and Monreale, and visit the baroque village of Noto.

Map