Superior Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
21 m²
3
Ancient shores of the Mediterranean
Málaga - Valletta
Dates:
05/05/2026
to
14/05/2026
days
nights on board
Sail along the Mediterranean shorelines and explore centuries of history during this exceptional journey between the eastern Spanish coast, North African shores and Sicily. During this 10-day cruise aboard Le Boréal, you will be amazed by the Mediterranean and its civilisations, a crossroads of exchange, the cradle of a unique way of life weaved together from fascinating cultures.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, attend a cavalcade at a finca in Cartagena, explore the history-laden streets of the Casbah, the jewel of Algiers ’s heritage, or marvel at Greek, Norman and Baroque influences during a walk on the island of Ortygia in Syracuse. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
Malaga, a sun-kissed city on the Costa del Sol and the birthplace of famous painter Pablo Picasso, marks the start of your Mediterranean odyssey.
Andalusia soon makes way for Murcia. You will arrive in Cartagena, a former Roman colony where there is still a majestic amphitheatre. As you roam the city, you will discover the many monuments reflecting its numerous influences and rich history.
You will leave the Iberian Peninsula for the African shores of the Mediterranean. You will follow in the footsteps of the Andalusian sailors who, in 902, crossed the Mediterranean to found Oran. “The radiant”, as it is dubbed, will be your gateway to Algeria, its secrets and its elusive poetry.
Algiers shines in the distance. From its legendary bay, the houses of its Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, seem to leap onto the Haussmann-style buildings of the sea front. The architectural styles mingle, the different eras find harmony, and the energy of the metropolis is captivating.
Le Boréal resumes its journey to head for the Tunisian shores and capital, Tunis. Rome’s great rival, Ancient Carthage, is yours to discover as you visit its ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sicily, jewel of the Mediterranean, is the last port of call of this musical journey. Trapani and its ancient past welcome you for a dive into the heritage of the Mediterranean’s largest island. In Palermo, the soul of Sicily exudes the perfumes of picturesque markets while history unveils itself. Its 12th-century cathedral and its Teatro Massimo opera house - one of the largest in Europe - make its city centre a real treasure chest with multiple cultural influences. In Syracuse, the Sicilian soul unfolds across the island of Ortygia - the oldest part of the city -, a maze of small streets dotted with churches, palaces, ancient remnants, sheltering a majestic cathedral in its very heart.
Your cruise will come to an end in Valletta, capital of the island of Malta and former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.
Ref : BO050526
Your itinerary
A cruise in the Mediterranean, from Andalusia to the North African shores via Sicily, featuring exciting history and sumptuous scenery. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Casbah in Algiers, the Tipaza complex...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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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 BORÉAL
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
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
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 cruise in the Mediterranean, from Andalusia to the North African shores via Sicily, featuring exciting history and sumptuous scenery.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Casbah in Algiers, the Tipaza complex (from Algiers), the archaeological site of Carthage, the medina in Tunis, Arab-Norman Palermo, Syracuse, Valletta (disembarkation port).
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- A dive into the ancient heritage of Cartagena.
- Three ports of call in the Maghreb, including two in Algeria, Algiers and Oran, and one in the Tunisian capital, Tunis.
- Discovering Sicily via three unforgettable ports of call in Palermo, Trapani and Syracuse.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
5 May 2026 - Málaga
Embarkation 05/05/2026 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 05/05/2026 at 18:00
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.
6 May 2026 - Cartagena
Arrival 06/05/2026 midday
Departure 06/05/2026 early evening
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.
7 May 2026 - Oran
Arrival 07/05/2026 early morning
Departure 07/05/2026 early afternoon
While it is impossible to fully capture the energy that Oran exudes, the city was a source of inspiration for great novels such as Don Quixote by Cervantes, The Plague by Camus, and more recently What the Day Owes the Night by Yasmina Khadra. Andalusian sailors founded the city in 902 and it continued to develop until becoming Algeria’s second largest city today. Dubbed “the radiant”, the city reflects its multiple influences, a blend of Middle Eastern, African, Mediterranean, and of course French. As you stroll through its streets, you will discover the Fort of Santa Cruz, the Hassan Pasha Mosque, the Sacred Heart Cathedral, the Mediterranean garden, and the magnificent seafront. Not far from there, in Sidi Bel Abbes, you may have the opportunity to visit a modern “khaima”, a traditional tent used by the Bedouins in the desert, and to discover Oran’s traditions and customs.
8 May 2026 - Algiers
Arrival 08/05/2026 early morning
Departure 08/05/2026 late afternoon
The beauty of the Bay of Algiers offers travellers arriving by sea an unforgettable view. The Casbah houses cascade down to the Haussmann-style buildings and the hustle and bustle of the Mediterranean city creates a unique atmosphere. Algiers the White proudly bears the traces of its history with its magnificent Casbah, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, its tropical garden called Jardin d’Essai, its Martyr’s Memorial, its imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, and its lively city centre with its Grande Poste (main post office) and French quarter. Seventy kilometres (43 miles) away, you will have the possibility of visiting Tipaza, one of the most extraordinary archaeological complexes of the Maghreb, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO. Once a trading post of the Carthaginians and later the Romans, the ancient city is home to the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, a funerary monument providing precious evidence of what was once the Punic world.
9 May 2026 - At sea
Arrival 09/05/2026
Departure 09/05/2026
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.
10 May 2026 - Tunis
Arrival 10/05/2026 early morning
Departure 10/05/2026 late afternoon
At the crossroads of civilisations, the capital of Tunisia is rich in cultural discoveries. The ruins of Ancient Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and particularly well preserved, testify to the splendour of this city that was once Rome’s great rival. The hill of Byrsa, the former fortified citadel of the Phoenician port and one of the presumed burial places of Saint Louis who died there during the Eighth Crusade, offers spectacular views over the Gulf of Tunis. In the Bardo National Museum, you will be able to admire one of the world’s finest Roman mosaic collections, including the magnificent portrait of the poet Virgil.
11 May 2026 - Trapani, Sicily
Arrival 11/05/2026 early morning
Departure 11/05/2026 midday
Bathed in the cobalt waters of the Tyrrhenian sea, Trapani is the former port of the Greek city of Erice, boasting a privileged natural position in western Sicily. As you wander through its little streets, you will discover a secular cultural heritage, bearing witness to the many influences of civilisations that came here: San Lorenzo Cathedral, Maria Santissima Annunziata sanctuary, the fountain of Triton. On the shaded restaurant terraces, savour some fresh fish from the morning’s catch. Or else you can opt for a seafood couscous, a culinary legacy from their Arab neighbours.
12 May 2026 - Palermo, Sicily
Arrival 12/05/2026 early morning
Departure 12/05/2026 late afternoon
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.
13 May 2026 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 13/05/2026 midday
Departure 13/05/2026 late afternoon
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.
14 May 2026 - Valletta
Arrival 14/05/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 14/05/2026 at 08:00
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.
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.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
LUNCH AND WALKING TOUR OF MALAGA
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Malaga
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach, reach the city centre of the capital of “Costa del Sol”.
Experience the local hospitality by tasting a tapas-style lunch at a typical tavern.
After lunch, start your walking exploration: pass by the Cathedral with its renaissance style, the Picasso Museum, hosted in a 16th-century palace of Andalusian architecture, and the nearby famous painter´s birth place.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
· Lunch with beverages package (mineral water + 1 glass of white and red wine + 1 coffee).
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 80 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.