Superior Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
21 m²
3
A Symphony at Sea Along the Coasts of Southern Spain and Portugal
Tarragona - Lisbon
Dates:
10/10/2025
to
17/10/2025
days
nights on board
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT themed voyages for travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks or performances aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
Join us aboard L’Austral for a musical celebration at sea as we sail along the Spanish and Portuguese coasts from Tarragona to Lisbon, discovering the landscapes, architecture, and rich cultural history of Southern Spain and Portugal through excursions ashore and musical performances aboard ship from a group of world-class musicians led by Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart. Your musicians include pianist Jihye Chang, cellist Alistair MacRae, soprano Allison Pohl, violist Scott Rawls, violinist Wendy Rawls, and violinist Benjamin Sung.
Sailing from Tarragona, your first port of call is the city of Valencia, perhaps most famous for its production of oranges, but also a showcase of architectural diversity, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Lonja de la Seda, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, to native architect Santiago Calatrava's exuberant 21st-century City of Arts and Sciences.
In Cartagena, your day begins with a tour of the city's emblematic Roman Theater, a remarkably well-preserved monument to the role of Cartagena in the defeat of Carthage in the second Punic War, and continues with a drive to Castillo de Concepcion for panoramic views over the city. Explore Calle Mayor, Cartagena's main street, where you will see the Gran Hotel and Cervantes House—and perhaps enjoy a liquored coffee, as locals do.
During the following two days, L'Austral will remain docked in Malaga, providing the opportunity to visit one of the most important centers of civic and cultural life during Andalusia's Golden Age. First, a full-day excursion brings you a choice to visit Cordoba. Tour the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Mezquita, an enormous 8th-century mosque converted to a Cathedral in the 13th century and visit the vibrant Jewish quarter of the city. Alternatively, journey to Granada and explore the incomparable Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the incredible Generalife Palace and Gardens, summer paradise for the Sultan.
On your second full day in Malaga, explore the incredible art and architecture of the birthplace city of Picasso, and discover his work during a visit to the Picasso Museum.
Next discover Cádiz, one of the country’s oldest cities. This call will allow for a visit to the superb palace of the Alcázar in Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or stay in town and enjoy a walking tour of the Barrio del Pópulo, the heartbeat of the city and Cadiz’s old town, and attend a performance of flamenco at a local tavern.
Lagos, near the southwestern tip of Portugal, is your gateway to the natural beauty, history, and culture of the Algarve. Tour the Old Town, visit the stunning rock formations and caves of Ponta da Piedade, and enjoy a tasting of Algarve wines. Or, trace the coastline by speedboat and take in the amazing formations of the Seco and Benagil Caves. Your voyage ends the following day in Lisbon.
Ref : TL1245US - AU101025
Your itinerary
A specially tailored voyage including transfers before and after your cruise and an included excursion in each port of call. A program of three musical performances aboard ship featuring Boston Pops conductor...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Our guests
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Superior Stateroom Deck 3
(21 m²)
From 6,260 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
(18 m²)
From 6,580 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
(18 m²)
From 6,910 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
(18 m²)
From 7,240 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
(18 m²)
From 7,630 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
(27 m²)
From 12,110 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Suite Deck 5
(37 m²)
From 13,420 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Suite Deck 6
(37 m²)
From 13,740 €
per person
25% Ponant Bonus
Owner's Suite Deck 6
(45 m²)
From 22,440 € per person
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE JACQUES CARTIER
22/02/2026 to the 06/03/2026
LE BORÉAL
14/05/2026 to the 24/05/2026
LE BELLOT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Keith Lockhart
Keith Lockhart is Conductor of the Boston Pops, Chief Guest Conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra, and Artistic Director of the Brevard Music Center in North Carolina (USA).
Now in his twenty-fourth season, he has served as Conductor of the Boston Pops since 1995, a tenure that includes over two thousand performances, forty-three national tours to more than 150 cities, and four international tours. He and the Pops have made seventy-nine television shows and participated in such high-profile sporting events as Super Bowl XXXVI, the 2008 NBA finals, the 2013 Boston Red Sox Ring Ceremony, and, most recently, Game 2 of the 2018 World Series between the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers. The annual July 4 Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular draws a live audience of over half a million with millions more who watch on television or live webcast.
From 2010-2018 Keith served as the seventh Principal Conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra. Highlights of his tenure include three critically acclaimed North American tours, conducting annual performances at The Proms, and celebrating the orchestra’s 60th year in 2012. In June of that same year, Keith Lockhart conducted the orchestra during Queen Elizabeth II’s gala Diamond Jubilee Concert, which was broadcast around the world.
In addition, he has conducted nearly every major orchestra in North America, as well as the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, the NHK Symphony in Tokyo, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the London Philharmonic. From 1998-2009 he was the Music Director of the Utah Symphony, and led the orchestra during Opening Ceremonies of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. He has also served as Associate Conductor of both the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and the Music Director of the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra.
Born in Poughkeepsie, NY, Maestro Lockhart began his musical studies on piano at the age of 7, and holds degrees from Furman University and Carnegie Mellon University.
Language spoken: English
Photo credit: Marco Borggreve
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:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
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:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
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:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
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 activities
Highlights
- A specially tailored voyage including transfers before and after your cruise and an included excursion in each port of call.
- A program of three musical performances aboard ship featuring Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart and six musicians – pianist Jihye Chang, cellist Alistair MacRae, soprano Allison Pohl, violist Scott Rawls, violinist Wendy Rawls, and violinist Benjamin Sung.
- A cruise to discover the landscapes, architecture, and rich cultural history of Southern Spain and Portugal.
- UNESCO World Heritage sites: La Lonja de la Seda in Valencia; the Historic Center of Cordoba; the Alhambra in Granada; and the Alcázar and Cathedral of Seville.
- A flamenco performance in Cádiz.
- The natural beauty of Portugal's Algarve.
Ports of Call & Excursions
10 October 2025 - Tarragona
Embarkation 10/10/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 10/10/2025 at 18:00
Tarragona is situated on the Costa Dorada, in the south of Spain’s Catalonia region. Known as Tarraco in Roman times, the city boasts very important archaeological and architectural vestiges that are magnificently well preserved. These earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2000. Do not miss this opportunity to visit the Roman amphitheatre, which is located on a beautiful natural site by the sea and is exceptionally well preserved. A stroll through the streets of the old medieval town to the cathedral, which was completed in the 14th century, is a wonderful way to end your visit to this welcoming city.
11 October 2025 - Valencia
Arrival 11/10/2025 early morning
Departure 11/10/2025 late afternoon
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.
12 October 2025 - Cartagena
Arrival 12/10/2025 early morning
Departure 12/10/2025 early afternoon
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.
13 October 2025 14 October 2025 - Málaga
Arrival 13/10/2025 early morning
Departure 14/10/2025 late afternoon
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.
15 October 2025 - Cadiz
Arrival 15/10/2025 early morning
Departure 15/10/2025 evening
Andalusia’s Cadiz is located on the Costa de la Luz, in the south-west of Spain. From the beaches of Cortadura, to the flamenco bars of Santa Maria, through the colourful streets of la Viña, you will be amazed by this city, which is both steeped in history and extremely festive. In the medieval El Pópulo district, you will stroll along covered passages in the narrow gaps between houses. You will also be able to mosey around the lush Mina square. The star of the show is the magnificent cathedral and its dome crowned with yellow porcelain, presiding above the Ocean.
16 October 2025 - Lagos
Arrival 16/10/2025 early morning
Departure 16/10/2025 late afternoon
There stands a natural paradise called Lagos, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. With its picturesque and age-old town centre, and the Ponta da Piedade natural site sheltering paradisiacal beaches protected by captivating limestone cliffs in hues of ochre, Lagos enthrals, fascinates and enchants. In this interesting blend between nature and culture, do not miss the chance to stroll along the small paved streets of its historic centre, surrounded by impressive Moorish ramparts and edged with traditional white houses, with decorations sculpted in the stone. In particular, you will be able to admire the Manuelian-style Governor's Castle, the 17th-century Ponta da Bandeira Fort or the Church of Santo António in Baroque architecture.
17 October 2025 - Lisbon
Arrival 17/10/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 17/10/2025 at 08:00
Portugal’s capital city located on the banks of the Tagus, only a few kilometres from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbour, impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Jeronimos monastery and Belem tower. The Alfama hillside is also worth visiting: known for its fado bars and its Moorish streets, this district is the oldest one of the city and one of the most typical. Not far from there, Chiado’s elegant streets are home to big fashion labels and are an invitation to a bit of of luxury shopping.
Valencia, Old and New
Begin in the heart of Valencia's Old Town at La Plaza de la Reina, the city's historic center. Your walking tour will visit the 13th-century Cathedral (outside only), built after the Reconquista on the site of a Roman temple that had been converted to an Arab mosque. This Gothic structure is home to what is said to be the Holy Grail, as well as paintings by Goya and Maella. Its bell tower, El Miguelete, is one of Valencia's most emblematic monuments.
Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage La Lonja de la Seda, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. Built from 1482-1533, this group of buildings was originally used for silk trading. The grandiose Sala de Contratación displays the power and wealth of a major Mediterranean mercantile city in the 15th-16th centuries.
Enjoy a paella lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, visit Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences, the largest cultural-educational complex in Europe. Designed by the Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava, it comprises five buildings surrounded by landscaped gardens and waterworks, covering nearly 500 acres at the eastern end of the Turia Gardens. Tour the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, one of the five buildings. This impressive monument combines the architect's style with complex engineering and state of the art technology to enhance performances while bringing them closer to the public. This stunning building features four distinct specially-designed venues, one each for opera, dance, recitals, and theater.
· This moderate excursion involves approximately 2.2 total miles of walking, including stairs and uneven ground. We advise you to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and to protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Treasures of Valencia
Begin your journey with a short walk through Valencia's Old Town to the UNESCO World Heritage La Lonja de la Seda, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. Built from 1482-1533, this group of buildings was originally used for silk trading. The grandiose Sala de Contratación displays the power and wealth of a major Mediterranean mercantile city in the 15th-16th centuries. Then, delve deeper into the city’s textile history with a visit to the Valencia Silk Museum, once the headquarters of the Velvet Weaver’s Guild.
Next, delve into the world of Las Fallas, Valencia's most celebrated festival, and a celebration of the coming of spring, cultural identity, social cohesion, and creativity. Explore the Las Fallas Museum, featuring massive, satirical sculptures called fallas as well as a photomontage exhibit that unveils the festival's origins and traditions.
Enjoy time to explore the city on your own or return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.
· This moderate excursion involves approximately 1.5 total miles of walking, on uneven ground and cobblestones. We advise you to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and to protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Roman Cartagena & Hilltop Vistas
Cartagena, founded over 2,000 years ago, bears the remarkable legacy of Roman, Carthaginian, and Spanish civilizations. Once the epicenter of power struggles during the Second Punic War, this port city offers a fascinating glimpse into antiquity through its well-preserved ruins and dramatic coastal views.
Begin your exploration at the Roman Theatre, one of Cartagena’s most iconic archaeological treasures. Built in the 1st century BCE, this grand structure could once hold over 6,000 spectators. As you step into the amphitheater, imagine the vibrant performances and political gatherings of ancient Rome, brought to life through your expert guide’s insights.
Continue to Concepción Castle (exterior view only), perched on one of the city’s five hills. Ascend by panoramic lift to the rooftop terrace, nestled within Torres Park, for sweeping views of the port and historic skyline. Then, stroll through the lively Calle Mayor, Cartagena’s elegant pedestrian promenade, known for its ornate architecture, cafés, and boutique shops. Enjoy free time to soak in the atmosphere or pick up a keepsake before returning to the ship.
· This excursion involves moderate walking over both flat and uneven surfaces. Sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended. Sunscreen and a hat are advised. The order of sites may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Spanish Horses & Heritage
Venture beyond the city for an authentic taste of rural Spain with a visit to a working finca just outside Cartagena. This experience offers a glimpse into the world of purebred Spanish horses—majestic creatures known for their elegance, power, and centuries-old lineage.
After a short drive, arrive at the picturesque estate where dedicated handlers will introduce you to the horses and their natural environment. Learn about the breeding process, training techniques, and the cultural importance of these noble animals. The experience begins with a stunning display: a stampede of Spanish horses galloping across the open fields.
After the horse show, enjoy a taste of regional flavors with a sampling of local wine and snacks made nearby. Then, delight in a spirited flamenco performance featuring a dancer and horse—an expressive fusion of Andalusian tradition and equestrian artistry.
Before returning to the pier, enjoy a brief panoramic drive, soaking in the scenery of Cartagena’s countryside.
This experience takes place primarily outdoors. Please wear comfortable flat shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. There will be prolonged periods of standing. Seating is limited.
Please note:
· The horse show is fully outdoors and may involve flies.
· The interior of the stables is not accessible.
· Food allergies and intolerances must be communicated at least 48 hours in advance.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Granada: The Moorish Legacy of Andalusia
This tour takes you to Granada to explore the incomparable Alhambra, built by caliphs of the Nasrid dynasty and recognized as the very pinnacle of Islamic architecture in the region.
Enjoy a drive through abundant olive orchards dotted with picturesque villages to the city of Granada, situated on a mesa in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. From its founding by the Umayyad dynasty in the 8th century until 1492, Granada was the center of a civilization in which the three great monotheistic faiths worked side by side to build a society of tolerance, dialogue, and coexistence.
On arrival in Granada, a stroll through the city center ends at the majestic Cathedral, a remarkable combination of Baroque façade, Renaissance dome and Gothic floor plan. Admire the Cathedral from the outside, before entering the Royal Chapel. In the Cathedral’s Royal Chapel are the tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella, the Catholic Monarchs who brought an end to Islamic rule in Iberia.
A short drive brings you to lunch in a local restaurant before continuing to the Alhambra for an afternoon tour.
Although damaged and restored over the centuries, it is not difficult to picture the palace as it was 600 years ago. Enter the Alqala hamra ("red castle") and visit the Nazaries Palaces — a complex of buildings with intricately carved stucco walls, knotted ceilings, and charming courtyards. Discover the Serallo, the official residence of the Sultan and Harem, which surrounds the famous Patio de los Leones with its 12 lion fountains. Continue with a visit to the Generalife Palace and Gardens, built as a summer paradise for the Sultan.
· This excursion involves a total of approximately 4 miles of intermittent walking over mostly flat terrain. There are some unpaved and cobblestoned paths at the Alhambra. We recommend you wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Medieval Cordoba
A panoramic drive north from Malaga through the towns and villages of central Andalusia brings you to Cordoba, located on the north bank of the Guadalquivir River about 80 miles east of Seville. A prosperous city under Roman rule, it became something of a boom town in the early Middle Ages when the Umayyad family made it the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba. By the end of the 10th century, it was probably the largest city in Europe, with a population nearing 100,000. It was also a leading center of scholarship, helping to preserve the legacy of Greece and Rome for future generations.
Your visit to Cordoba begins with a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Mezquita, an enormous 8th-century mosque that was converted to a Cathedral in the 13th century—a dazzling fusion of Islamic and Christian architecture that served as a model for much of the 'Moorish' architecture of southern Iberia and North Africa. From the Mosque-Cathedral it is a short walk to the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, home to Ferdinand and Isabella for eight years during the Reconquista, and the site of their first meeting with Christopher Columbus. Continue your tour with a stroll through the labyrinth of narrow streets adorned with colorful flowers cascading from whitewashed balconies that is Cordoba's vibrant Jewish quarter, and visit its 14th-century synagogue.
At the end of the tour, sit down to a lunch of Andalusian tapas at a local restaurant, followed by some time at leisure to explore on your own before returning to Malaga and your ship.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 2.5 hours of walking over flat and cobblestone surfaces with some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Layered clothing and protection from the sun are a must.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Old Malaga & The Picasso Museum with Exclusive Access
During this walking tour of Old Málaga, explore the incredible art and architecture of the birthplace city of Picasso, and discover his work during a visit to the Picasso Museum.
From the pier, start your guided walking tour to the Picasso Museum. En route, take a stroll through Málaga’s Old Town. Your first stop is Calle Larios, the main shopping street of Málaga. Next, cross the Plaza de la Constitución, walk along Calle Granada to the Plaza de la Merced. Then proceed to the highlight of the tour, the Picasso Museum of Málaga, or "Museo Picasso Málaga".
The Picasso Museum is permanently housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, a 16th century historical building that is adorned with the Andalusian architecture of the day, along with a unique blend of Renaissance and Mudéjar elements. Enjoy a guided tour including exclusive access to sections of the museum and palace not generally open to the public.
Following your guided museum visit, proceed to a local restaurant for a snack of local tapas and wine. Return to the ship with your guide or enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
· This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over mostly even city surfaces. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mijas & Molino de la Paca: Olive Oil Traditions of Andalusia
Travel inland to the foothills of the Sierra de Mijas, where olive groves blanket the countryside and centuries-old traditions still thrive. Your destination is Molino de la Paca, a family-run olive oil mill founded in 1870 in the small town of Alhaurín el Grande.
This working mill offers a candid look into the world of olive oil production. Tour its small museum showcasing antique tools, including a ship engine–powered stone mill, and learn how both traditional and modern techniques coexist in today’s operations. Accompanied by the owners, stroll through surrounding olive groves to hear how time-tested Andalusian agricultural practices nurture the land, prevent erosion, and promote biodiversity.
At the mill’s conclusion, enjoy a tasting of its signature extra virgin olive oil alongside local olives and a glass of Málaga wine.
Your journey continues to Mijas, a whitewashed village perched dramatically on the mountainside. Roam its narrow lanes lined with artisan boutiques, take in panoramic views of the coastline, and soak up the laid-back rhythm of Andalusian life before your return to the ship.
· This excursion involves approximately 2 hours of walking on uneven surfaces and steps. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cadiz: Gateway to Southern Spain
Settled about 1100 BCE by Phoenicians, Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. It remains to this day an important port and an opening to the history and culture of southernmost Spain.
Your excursion begins with a picturesque walking tour from the pier to San Juan de Dios square, where you will witness the historic architecture of the town hall against a modern background of pedestrian walkways and palm-tree-lined fountains.
Continue through the Barrio del Pópulo, the heartbeat of the city and Cadiz’s old town. Considered one of the oldest neighborhoods in Europe, Pópulo was once home to Phoenicians, Punics, Romans, and Arabs alike.
Proceed to the Catedral de Cadiz for an outside visit to view the gold dome and exquisite Baroque façade. Construction of the cathedral began in 1722, when Cadiz was at the height of its power and one of the wealthiest ports in Western Europe, with gold and silver from the New World. Continue your walk through winding streets to the Plaza de las Flores and enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
Meet back up with your guide and pass by the lively Plaza San Francisco, home to the Convent of San Francisco, house of the Franciscans in Cadiz, founded in 1566. Continue to Plaza de la Mina, one of the most popular residential squares in Cadiz, and one of the historic gardens of the city.
End at the Flamenco La Cava, one of the city's premiere tablao, where you will be treated to an exciting performance of flamenco, replete with rhythmically tapping heels, clicking castanets, and the traditional rascado flourishes of the guitar. During the show, a full tapas style lunch will be served, the perfect enhancement to a quintessentially Spanish experience.
After lunch and the show, transfer back to the ship.
· This moderate excursion involves a significant amount of walking (approximately 2.5 miles total). Most of the walking is over flat and even ground, but there are some uneven areas and cobblestones. We recommend sturdy yet comfortable shoes. Hats and sunblock are also recommended. Note that sites may be visited in a different order.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Andalusian Treasures: Seville & Cathedral
Seville was shaped by a succession of civilizations — Roman, Moorish, Jewish, Christian — that alternately clashed violently and then found ways to coexist. The rich multicultural legacy of this mixing of traditions is found everywhere in the city. On this tour, you will discover two of Seville’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and experience the vitality of everyday life in this vibrant community.
As you traverse the rolling countryside from Cadiz to Seville, you will see a landscape of olive and orange groves and vineyards that have long supplied the city of Seville and that now export fine wines and oils around the world. You will also pass farms where Spain’s finest bulls and horses are bred.
Upon arrival in Seville, you will disembark your coach and enjoy a stroll through the charming Murillo Gardens, which lead the way to the royal compound of the Real Alcazar. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built in the Mudéjar style in the 14th century, is today a sprawling complex incorporating architectural influences from the Renaissance, Baroque and 19th century. Here you will discover lavish gardens, sparkling ponds and fountains, and fascinating ornamental details at every turn.
A short walk from the Alcazar is the UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral of Seville – the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb. The central nave rises 120 feet above the interior. La Giralda, built as a minaret for the city's chief mosque in the 12th century, now serves as the bell tower and a symbol of Seville.
After a lunch at a local restaurant featuring signature dishes, enjoy a walking tour and time at leisure exploring the Barrio de Santa Cruz. The city’s former Jewish quarter, the barrio is a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets lined with orange trees and whitewashed buildings decorated with wrought-iron grilled windows.
· This moderate excursion involves a significant amount of walking (approximately 1.5 miles total) mostly over flat and even ground, but there are places with cobblestones. We recommend sturdy, comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is required when visiting the Cathedral. Hats and sunblock are recommended. Sites may be visited in a different order.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Seco & Benagil
Lagos is your gateway to the Algarve, the southwestern portion of Portugal that juts into the Atlantic Ocean—a region of beaches known for their surf, wetlands teeming with birdlife, and towns and villages with a rich history spanning from Phoenician settlement through Muslim Conquest and Spanish Reconquest to the present day. This excursion focuses on the natural history of the coastline east of Portimão and on the amazing formations of the Seco and Benagil Caves.
Transfer to Portimão where you will board a local boat and set sail. Pass by the remains of a medieval fort on one shore and the fishing village of Ferragudo on the other, then relax and enjoy the scenery as you make your way past beautiful beaches to the town of Carvoeiro, where you pause to admire the remarkable rock formations of Algar Seco. Continuing eastward a few more miles, arrive at the famous grottoes of Benagil, mesmerizing structures carved from the sandstone by sea and wind. Weather and sea conditions permitting, your boat will enter the caves where you can see close up the fascinating results of centuries of erosion.
· This is an easy excursion, involving only the walk along the pier to the local boat and back. Layered clothing, including a windbreaker for the cruise, is recommended, as is protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Lagos Walking Tour
The town of Lagos served as an outpost and trading center for Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, and Romans, but its heyday was in the 15th and 16th centuries, when it played a major role in the Portuguese exploration of Africa and South America. It was here that Prince Henry the Navigator outfitted the caravels that began the Age of Discovery.
A guided walking tour of the Old Town includes the 16th-century walls that protected the town from invaders, as well as visits to two important monuments: the Church of Santo Antonio, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake in 1755; and the Municipal Museum, founded in 1932. The exterior of the church is quite modest, but the interior can only be described as extravagant, filled with gilded wood carvings, intricately worked panels, and ceiling paintings. The Museum, which underwent a significant renovation in 2021, displays archaeological artifacts from the Neolithic, Roman, and Islamic periods, as well as material from the 15th to the 19th centuries. After the tour, enjoy some time at leisure to explore on your own before stopping at a local taverna to sample some regional tapas accompanied by a good Portuguese wine.
· This is a relatively easy excursion with about 1.5 miles of walking over mostly flat surfaces. We recommend comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Sagres Peninsula
Sagres was important to mariners long before it became associated with Prince Henry the Navigator and the early Portuguese Age of Discovery. But the legacy of Henry's championing of the effort to chart and map what lay beyond the horizon has forever linked his discoveries with this windswept and barren peninsula.
Your exploration of the peninsula begins at Ponta de Sagres, a dramatic headland of rock, offering breathtaking views of its cliffs and the ocean that surrounds them. You will see the historic Sagres Fortress, which was badly damaged in the 1755 earthquake and then restored in the 20th century, and visit the small Church of Nossa Senhora de Graça, originally built by Prince Henry. A short drive to the west brings you to Cabo de São Vicente, which marks the southwestern-most point of mainland Europe and is home to a historic lighthouse.
On the return to Lagos stop at Ponta da Piedade, a dramatic, windswept headland on Lagos's south coast. The views from the boardwalk along the cliffs of the dramatic rock formations—pillars, arches, and hidden grottos—are stunning and a reminder of the awesome power of the sea.
· There are not long distances of walking on this excursion, but the footing is uneven. Sturdy walking shoes are a must, and a jacket to protect you from the wind is highly recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included Features:
- Onboard programming featuring three exclusive musical performances led by Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart and a talented ensemble of six musicians.
- Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Barcelona to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Comprehensive 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe L’Austral, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
- One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
- Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Lisbon at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
Not included:
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Notes:
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis
Program is subject to change without notice
Quintessential Collection
PONANT Quintessential Collection voyages are designed for travelers who want to engage with the world in order to understand it.
In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, these voyages include lectures and performances aboard ship by world class experts and musicians and one or two exceptional activities ashore that encourage guests to embrace the sights and sounds, tastes and smells of the local culture. They also offer pre- or post-cruise stay with excursions relevant to the theme. We believe that travel approached in this way has the power ato transform us and to make us better citizens of the world.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Timeless
With one included excursion per day and per guest, and the presence of expert lecturers on board, Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation. A refined way to journey far from the everyday, both in mind and in spirit.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, or aboard local vessels.
- Your experts on board: The dedicated excursion team and one or more guest lecturers.
- Children: Children from one year of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on board Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts, or ballets — whether at sea or on land, musical and dance cruises offer exclusive experiences in an intimate setting. These voyages are enriched by prestigious partners such as Radio Classique and the Paris Opera, and feature internationally renowned, talented artists.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Valencia, Old and New
Begin in the heart of Valencia's Old Town at La Plaza de la Reina, the city's historic center. Your walking tour will visit the 13th-century Cathedral (outside only), built after the Reconquista on the site of a Roman temple that had been converted to an Arab mosque. This Gothic structure is home to what is said to be the Holy Grail, as well as paintings by Goya and Maella. Its bell tower, El Miguelete, is one of Valencia's most emblematic monuments.
Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage La Lonja de la Seda, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. Built from 1482-1533, this group of buildings was originally used for silk trading. The grandiose Sala de Contratación displays the power and wealth of a major Mediterranean mercantile city in the 15th-16th centuries.
Enjoy a paella lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, visit Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences, the largest cultural-educational complex in Europe. Designed by the Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava, it comprises five buildings surrounded by landscaped gardens and waterworks, covering nearly 500 acres at the eastern end of the Turia Gardens. Tour the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, one of the five buildings. This impressive monument combines the architect's style with complex engineering and state of the art technology to enhance performances while bringing them closer to the public. This stunning building features four distinct specially-designed venues, one each for opera, dance, recitals, and theater.
· This moderate excursion involves approximately 2.2 total miles of walking, including stairs and uneven ground. We advise you to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and to protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Treasures of Valencia
Begin your journey with a short walk through Valencia's Old Town to the UNESCO World Heritage La Lonja de la Seda, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. Built from 1482-1533, this group of buildings was originally used for silk trading. The grandiose Sala de Contratación displays the power and wealth of a major Mediterranean mercantile city in the 15th-16th centuries. Then, delve deeper into the city’s textile history with a visit to the Valencia Silk Museum, once the headquarters of the Velvet Weaver’s Guild.
Next, delve into the world of Las Fallas, Valencia's most celebrated festival, and a celebration of the coming of spring, cultural identity, social cohesion, and creativity. Explore the Las Fallas Museum, featuring massive, satirical sculptures called fallas as well as a photomontage exhibit that unveils the festival's origins and traditions.
Enjoy time to explore the city on your own or return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.
· This moderate excursion involves approximately 1.5 total miles of walking, on uneven ground and cobblestones. We advise you to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and to protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Roman Cartagena & Hilltop Vistas
Cartagena, founded over 2,000 years ago, bears the remarkable legacy of Roman, Carthaginian, and Spanish civilizations. Once the epicenter of power struggles during the Second Punic War, this port city offers a fascinating glimpse into antiquity through its well-preserved ruins and dramatic coastal views.
Begin your exploration at the Roman Theatre, one of Cartagena’s most iconic archaeological treasures. Built in the 1st century BCE, this grand structure could once hold over 6,000 spectators. As you step into the amphitheater, imagine the vibrant performances and political gatherings of ancient Rome, brought to life through your expert guide’s insights.
Continue to Concepción Castle (exterior view only), perched on one of the city’s five hills. Ascend by panoramic lift to the rooftop terrace, nestled within Torres Park, for sweeping views of the port and historic skyline. Then, stroll through the lively Calle Mayor, Cartagena’s elegant pedestrian promenade, known for its ornate architecture, cafés, and boutique shops. Enjoy free time to soak in the atmosphere or pick up a keepsake before returning to the ship.
· This excursion involves moderate walking over both flat and uneven surfaces. Sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended. Sunscreen and a hat are advised. The order of sites may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Spanish Horses & Heritage
Venture beyond the city for an authentic taste of rural Spain with a visit to a working finca just outside Cartagena. This experience offers a glimpse into the world of purebred Spanish horses—majestic creatures known for their elegance, power, and centuries-old lineage.
After a short drive, arrive at the picturesque estate where dedicated handlers will introduce you to the horses and their natural environment. Learn about the breeding process, training techniques, and the cultural importance of these noble animals. The experience begins with a stunning display: a stampede of Spanish horses galloping across the open fields.
After the horse show, enjoy a taste of regional flavors with a sampling of local wine and snacks made nearby. Then, delight in a spirited flamenco performance featuring a dancer and horse—an expressive fusion of Andalusian tradition and equestrian artistry.
Before returning to the pier, enjoy a brief panoramic drive, soaking in the scenery of Cartagena’s countryside.
This experience takes place primarily outdoors. Please wear comfortable flat shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. There will be prolonged periods of standing. Seating is limited.
Please note:
· The horse show is fully outdoors and may involve flies.
· The interior of the stables is not accessible.
· Food allergies and intolerances must be communicated at least 48 hours in advance.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Granada: The Moorish Legacy of Andalusia
This tour takes you to Granada to explore the incomparable Alhambra, built by caliphs of the Nasrid dynasty and recognized as the very pinnacle of Islamic architecture in the region.
Enjoy a drive through abundant olive orchards dotted with picturesque villages to the city of Granada, situated on a mesa in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. From its founding by the Umayyad dynasty in the 8th century until 1492, Granada was the center of a civilization in which the three great monotheistic faiths worked side by side to build a society of tolerance, dialogue, and coexistence.
On arrival in Granada, a stroll through the city center ends at the majestic Cathedral, a remarkable combination of Baroque façade, Renaissance dome and Gothic floor plan. Admire the Cathedral from the outside, before entering the Royal Chapel. In the Cathedral’s Royal Chapel are the tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella, the Catholic Monarchs who brought an end to Islamic rule in Iberia.
A short drive brings you to lunch in a local restaurant before continuing to the Alhambra for an afternoon tour.
Although damaged and restored over the centuries, it is not difficult to picture the palace as it was 600 years ago. Enter the Alqala hamra ("red castle") and visit the Nazaries Palaces — a complex of buildings with intricately carved stucco walls, knotted ceilings, and charming courtyards. Discover the Serallo, the official residence of the Sultan and Harem, which surrounds the famous Patio de los Leones with its 12 lion fountains. Continue with a visit to the Generalife Palace and Gardens, built as a summer paradise for the Sultan.
· This excursion involves a total of approximately 4 miles of intermittent walking over mostly flat terrain. There are some unpaved and cobblestoned paths at the Alhambra. We recommend you wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Medieval Cordoba
A panoramic drive north from Malaga through the towns and villages of central Andalusia brings you to Cordoba, located on the north bank of the Guadalquivir River about 80 miles east of Seville. A prosperous city under Roman rule, it became something of a boom town in the early Middle Ages when the Umayyad family made it the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba. By the end of the 10th century, it was probably the largest city in Europe, with a population nearing 100,000. It was also a leading center of scholarship, helping to preserve the legacy of Greece and Rome for future generations.
Your visit to Cordoba begins with a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Mezquita, an enormous 8th-century mosque that was converted to a Cathedral in the 13th century—a dazzling fusion of Islamic and Christian architecture that served as a model for much of the 'Moorish' architecture of southern Iberia and North Africa. From the Mosque-Cathedral it is a short walk to the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, home to Ferdinand and Isabella for eight years during the Reconquista, and the site of their first meeting with Christopher Columbus. Continue your tour with a stroll through the labyrinth of narrow streets adorned with colorful flowers cascading from whitewashed balconies that is Cordoba's vibrant Jewish quarter, and visit its 14th-century synagogue.
At the end of the tour, sit down to a lunch of Andalusian tapas at a local restaurant, followed by some time at leisure to explore on your own before returning to Malaga and your ship.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 2.5 hours of walking over flat and cobblestone surfaces with some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Layered clothing and protection from the sun are a must.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Old Malaga & The Picasso Museum with Exclusive Access
During this walking tour of Old Málaga, explore the incredible art and architecture of the birthplace city of Picasso, and discover his work during a visit to the Picasso Museum.
From the pier, start your guided walking tour to the Picasso Museum. En route, take a stroll through Málaga’s Old Town. Your first stop is Calle Larios, the main shopping street of Málaga. Next, cross the Plaza de la Constitución, walk along Calle Granada to the Plaza de la Merced. Then proceed to the highlight of the tour, the Picasso Museum of Málaga, or "Museo Picasso Málaga".
The Picasso Museum is permanently housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, a 16th century historical building that is adorned with the Andalusian architecture of the day, along with a unique blend of Renaissance and Mudéjar elements. Enjoy a guided tour including exclusive access to sections of the museum and palace not generally open to the public.
Following your guided museum visit, proceed to a local restaurant for a snack of local tapas and wine. Return to the ship with your guide or enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
· This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over mostly even city surfaces. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mijas & Molino de la Paca: Olive Oil Traditions of Andalusia
Travel inland to the foothills of the Sierra de Mijas, where olive groves blanket the countryside and centuries-old traditions still thrive. Your destination is Molino de la Paca, a family-run olive oil mill founded in 1870 in the small town of Alhaurín el Grande.
This working mill offers a candid look into the world of olive oil production. Tour its small museum showcasing antique tools, including a ship engine–powered stone mill, and learn how both traditional and modern techniques coexist in today’s operations. Accompanied by the owners, stroll through surrounding olive groves to hear how time-tested Andalusian agricultural practices nurture the land, prevent erosion, and promote biodiversity.
At the mill’s conclusion, enjoy a tasting of its signature extra virgin olive oil alongside local olives and a glass of Málaga wine.
Your journey continues to Mijas, a whitewashed village perched dramatically on the mountainside. Roam its narrow lanes lined with artisan boutiques, take in panoramic views of the coastline, and soak up the laid-back rhythm of Andalusian life before your return to the ship.
· This excursion involves approximately 2 hours of walking on uneven surfaces and steps. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cadiz: Gateway to Southern Spain
Settled about 1100 BCE by Phoenicians, Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. It remains to this day an important port and an opening to the history and culture of southernmost Spain.
Your excursion begins with a picturesque walking tour from the pier to San Juan de Dios square, where you will witness the historic architecture of the town hall against a modern background of pedestrian walkways and palm-tree-lined fountains.
Continue through the Barrio del Pópulo, the heartbeat of the city and Cadiz’s old town. Considered one of the oldest neighborhoods in Europe, Pópulo was once home to Phoenicians, Punics, Romans, and Arabs alike.
Proceed to the Catedral de Cadiz for an outside visit to view the gold dome and exquisite Baroque façade. Construction of the cathedral began in 1722, when Cadiz was at the height of its power and one of the wealthiest ports in Western Europe, with gold and silver from the New World. Continue your walk through winding streets to the Plaza de las Flores and enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
Meet back up with your guide and pass by the lively Plaza San Francisco, home to the Convent of San Francisco, house of the Franciscans in Cadiz, founded in 1566. Continue to Plaza de la Mina, one of the most popular residential squares in Cadiz, and one of the historic gardens of the city.
End at the Flamenco La Cava, one of the city's premiere tablao, where you will be treated to an exciting performance of flamenco, replete with rhythmically tapping heels, clicking castanets, and the traditional rascado flourishes of the guitar. During the show, a full tapas style lunch will be served, the perfect enhancement to a quintessentially Spanish experience.
After lunch and the show, transfer back to the ship.
· This moderate excursion involves a significant amount of walking (approximately 2.5 miles total). Most of the walking is over flat and even ground, but there are some uneven areas and cobblestones. We recommend sturdy yet comfortable shoes. Hats and sunblock are also recommended. Note that sites may be visited in a different order.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Andalusian Treasures: Seville & Cathedral
Seville was shaped by a succession of civilizations — Roman, Moorish, Jewish, Christian — that alternately clashed violently and then found ways to coexist. The rich multicultural legacy of this mixing of traditions is found everywhere in the city. On this tour, you will discover two of Seville’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and experience the vitality of everyday life in this vibrant community.
As you traverse the rolling countryside from Cadiz to Seville, you will see a landscape of olive and orange groves and vineyards that have long supplied the city of Seville and that now export fine wines and oils around the world. You will also pass farms where Spain’s finest bulls and horses are bred.
Upon arrival in Seville, you will disembark your coach and enjoy a stroll through the charming Murillo Gardens, which lead the way to the royal compound of the Real Alcazar. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built in the Mudéjar style in the 14th century, is today a sprawling complex incorporating architectural influences from the Renaissance, Baroque and 19th century. Here you will discover lavish gardens, sparkling ponds and fountains, and fascinating ornamental details at every turn.
A short walk from the Alcazar is the UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral of Seville – the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb. The central nave rises 120 feet above the interior. La Giralda, built as a minaret for the city's chief mosque in the 12th century, now serves as the bell tower and a symbol of Seville.
After a lunch at a local restaurant featuring signature dishes, enjoy a walking tour and time at leisure exploring the Barrio de Santa Cruz. The city’s former Jewish quarter, the barrio is a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets lined with orange trees and whitewashed buildings decorated with wrought-iron grilled windows.
· This moderate excursion involves a significant amount of walking (approximately 1.5 miles total) mostly over flat and even ground, but there are places with cobblestones. We recommend sturdy, comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is required when visiting the Cathedral. Hats and sunblock are recommended. Sites may be visited in a different order.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Seco & Benagil
Lagos is your gateway to the Algarve, the southwestern portion of Portugal that juts into the Atlantic Ocean—a region of beaches known for their surf, wetlands teeming with birdlife, and towns and villages with a rich history spanning from Phoenician settlement through Muslim Conquest and Spanish Reconquest to the present day. This excursion focuses on the natural history of the coastline east of Portimão and on the amazing formations of the Seco and Benagil Caves.
Transfer to Portimão where you will board a local boat and set sail. Pass by the remains of a medieval fort on one shore and the fishing village of Ferragudo on the other, then relax and enjoy the scenery as you make your way past beautiful beaches to the town of Carvoeiro, where you pause to admire the remarkable rock formations of Algar Seco. Continuing eastward a few more miles, arrive at the famous grottoes of Benagil, mesmerizing structures carved from the sandstone by sea and wind. Weather and sea conditions permitting, your boat will enter the caves where you can see close up the fascinating results of centuries of erosion.
· This is an easy excursion, involving only the walk along the pier to the local boat and back. Layered clothing, including a windbreaker for the cruise, is recommended, as is protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Lagos Walking Tour
The town of Lagos served as an outpost and trading center for Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, and Romans, but its heyday was in the 15th and 16th centuries, when it played a major role in the Portuguese exploration of Africa and South America. It was here that Prince Henry the Navigator outfitted the caravels that began the Age of Discovery.
A guided walking tour of the Old Town includes the 16th-century walls that protected the town from invaders, as well as visits to two important monuments: the Church of Santo Antonio, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake in 1755; and the Municipal Museum, founded in 1932. The exterior of the church is quite modest, but the interior can only be described as extravagant, filled with gilded wood carvings, intricately worked panels, and ceiling paintings. The Museum, which underwent a significant renovation in 2021, displays archaeological artifacts from the Neolithic, Roman, and Islamic periods, as well as material from the 15th to the 19th centuries. After the tour, enjoy some time at leisure to explore on your own before stopping at a local taverna to sample some regional tapas accompanied by a good Portuguese wine.
· This is a relatively easy excursion with about 1.5 miles of walking over mostly flat surfaces. We recommend comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Sagres Peninsula
Sagres was important to mariners long before it became associated with Prince Henry the Navigator and the early Portuguese Age of Discovery. But the legacy of Henry's championing of the effort to chart and map what lay beyond the horizon has forever linked his discoveries with this windswept and barren peninsula.
Your exploration of the peninsula begins at Ponta de Sagres, a dramatic headland of rock, offering breathtaking views of its cliffs and the ocean that surrounds them. You will see the historic Sagres Fortress, which was badly damaged in the 1755 earthquake and then restored in the 20th century, and visit the small Church of Nossa Senhora de Graça, originally built by Prince Henry. A short drive to the west brings you to Cabo de São Vicente, which marks the southwestern-most point of mainland Europe and is home to a historic lighthouse.
On the return to Lagos stop at Ponta da Piedade, a dramatic, windswept headland on Lagos's south coast. The views from the boardwalk along the cliffs of the dramatic rock formations—pillars, arches, and hidden grottos—are stunning and a reminder of the awesome power of the sea.
· There are not long distances of walking on this excursion, but the footing is uneven. Sturdy walking shoes are a must, and a jacket to protect you from the wind is highly recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.