6 Sept 26, from 7,760 €

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Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

Itinerary
Valletta to Livorno
Duration
9 days
Dates
6 Sept 26 to 14 Sept 26
Prices from

Come aboard Le Dumont d'Urville for an unforgettable voyage.

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking 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 and discussions 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.

This 9-day voyage in Sicily and Southern Italy aboard Le Dumont-d’Urville visits some of the Mediterranean's most compelling ancient, medieval, and Renaissance sites while also offering extensive opportunities to sample the foods and wines that have made this part of the world famous for its cuisine. Because there is so much to see and do, the itinerary is designed to allow for maximum time ashore.

From Valletta, Malta, your experience of Sicily begins in Syracuse, where you may choose to focus on Ortygia, the ancient center of this once-powerful Greek colony, and on the city's extensive archaeological park; enjoy a tasting at a nearby winery; or join excursions that combine exploration of historical sites with samplings of Sicilian arancini, cheeses, salamis, breads, and desserts.

The beautiful resort town of Taormina, perched high on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, is home to a stunning Greek theater, an Odeon from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, and villas built by European aristocracy in the 18^th and 19^th centuries. It is also your gateway to Mt. Etna and the vineyards that thrive in the rich volcanic soils of its slopes.

Reggio di Calabria, just across the Strait of Messina from Sicily, is home to the National Archaeological Museum of Magna Graecia and the world famous Riace Bronzes. The surrounding area, both along the coast and in the interior mountains, boasts a number of intriguing castles and many wineries. During your time here, you may visit the hilltop Norman Castle in Vibo Valentia, the Ruffo Castle overlooking the Messina Strait, or the Aragonese Castle in the village of Pizzo, enjoying a variety of local food specialties whichever excursion you choose, including the native citrus bergamot and the ice cream and fruit delight called tartufo.

From the port of Agropoli, about 30 miles south of the Amalfi peninsula, travel to Paestum, founded by Greeks in the 6^th century BC and one of Italy’s most important archaeological sites, containing Doric temples that are among the best-preserved ancient monuments in the Mediterranean. The region around Agropoli is famous for the production of Campania mozzarella, and you will have the opportunity to see it being made and to sample the end product.

No visit to Naples is complete without the opportunity to explore Pompeii, destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD and frozen in time. No other site so acutely captures everyday life in the early Roman Empire. Other excursions include Herculaneum, which shared Pompeii's fate, and a working farm near Sorrento, where you can make your own version of what is perhaps the region's most famous food, Neapolitan style pizza.

Spend a full day in the Eternal City of Rome, where exploration of monuments like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, the Vatican, and Villa Borghese competes for your attention with tastings of street food and making Roman pasta.

Your final full day of discovery from Livorno includes a full day excursion to Florence for an introduction to the heart of the Italian Renaissance. Or if you prefer, you may explore the Etruscan ruins and museum at nearby Volterra. Alternatively, spend the day exploring Romanesque Lucca, birthplace of Giacomo Puccini, and medieval Pisa, with its magnificent Duomo, Baptistry, and Leaning Tower.

Overview

Your voyage

All-inclusive

Destination

Mediterranean

Valletta to Livorno

Duration

9 days, 8 nights on board

Smithsonian Journeys, Timeless

Smithsonian Journeys

Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included

Offers

PONANT Bonus 25%

Ref: VL1145US - EU060926

Journey

Your daily itinerary

A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.
Discover monuments from the Roman Empire in Syracuse, Taormina, Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Rome.
Explore well-preserved Greek sites in Syracuse, Taormina, and Paestum.
Encounter Pisa's Leaning Tower or the Duomo of Florence.
Visit vineyards and sample the wines of Syracuse, Taormina, Reggio di Calabria, and Naples.
Experience the variety of foods in the diet of this region on the Mediterranean, including the arancini, salami, and cheeses of Sicily; the desserts of Calabria; the mozzarella of Campania; and the pizzas and pastas of Naples and Rome.

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys null

Customize your journey:

Maltese highlights (2 nights)

Date

Guests

Size

32 m²

Sold out

Grand Deluxe Suite

Guests

Size

45 m²

Owner's Suite

Guests

Size

45 m²

*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.

Details

More information

What's Included

Important travel details

In your luggage

Our cruises

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.

Arrival 07/09/26 early morning Departure 07/09/26 late afternoon

7 Sept 26 - 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.

Arrival 08/09/26 Departure 08/09/26 early evening

8 Sept 26 - Taormina, Sicily

Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, in the province of Messina, the seaside town of Taormina is Sicily’s Saint-Tropez, boasting heritage sites, secluded beaches and luxury shopping. You can visit its medieval centre, suspended 300 metres above sea level, where terraces offer a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another vestige from its past are the ruins of the Greco-Roman theatre. This extremely well-preserved site attracts visitors who are fascinated by the natural beauty of the area which overlooks a turquoise bay.

Arrival 09/09/26 Departure 09/09/26 late afternoon

9 Sept 26 - 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.

Arrival 10/09/26 early morning Departure 10/09/26 early evening

10 Sept 26 - Agropoli

Located on the Cilento Coast along the Tyrrhenian Sea, Agropoli is an Italian town located in the province of Salerno in Campania. You will be seduced by the beauty of its coastline, its pristine nature and its fascinating history dating back to Antiquity. The Apennines (from the Celtic word “pen” meaning rocky summit) form the backbone of the Italian Peninsula and serve as a majestic background to a landscape composed of small bays and coves. The magnificent beaches of Trentova Bay contribute to making this small town a very popular seaside resort.

Arrival 11/09/26 Departure 11/09/26 late afternoon

11 Sept 26 - Naples

More Italian than Italy itself, Naples is the capital of the beautiful region of Campania, and is an unusual city to say the least. Its gulf, dominated by Vesuvius, is one of the world’s marvels. Built by the Greeks and then occupied by the Romans, the city has retained the memory of antiquity, as Castell dell’Ovo illustrates. But Naples has another side to it with its hustle and bustle, narrow streets, clothes hung out to dry at windows, Caravaggio paintings on the walls of a church, and incessant rumour in an sleepless city. This is a head-spinning city to visit and savour: don’t forget to eat a slice of pizza Margherita.

Arrival 12/09/26 early morning Departure 12/09/26 late afternoon

12 Sept 26 - Civitavecchia (Rome)

Built on an Etruscan site, between the Tyrrhenian sea and the Monti della Tolfa, Civitavecchia respires the dolce vita. This very modern and easy going town combines art and history with panache. You can also visit superb historical sites like Fort Michelangelo or the Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi. Just 80 kilometres from Rome, the town is a beautiful first step to the Italian capital.

Arrival 13/09/26 early morning Disembarkation 14/09/26 at 8:00

13 Sept 26 > 14 Sept 26 - Livorno

On the ligurian coast, Livorno invites us to Tuscany, a charming region offering archaeological vestiges, Renaissance treasures, undulating landscapes and a pleasant way of life. When the Medicis arrived in the 16th century they developed the city, which became one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean. Cosmopolitan and multireligious, Livorno has welcomed many immigrants and is a wonderful example of cultural diversity. Built during that period, Fortezza Vecchia and Fortezza Nuova attest to the city’s power. At the foot of the new fort, Nuova Venezia is an enchanting district with small canals and streets to stroll along to discover a few architectural treasures, such as the magnificent Santa Caterina da Siena church in the Tuscan baroque style.

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

Included package

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:

A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Valletta to the ship on the day of embarkation
Comprehensive 8-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Dumont-d’Urville, 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 Pisa or Florence 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

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

Customize your journey

Maltese highlights (2 nights)

Details

This specially designed program is an opportunity to get a sense of the extraordinarily rich history of this small island nation in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Learn about the importance of Malta as a crossroads of trade and as the headquarters of the Knights of St. John, as well as something of the island's Neolithic past as preserved in the prehistoric megaliths of Hagar Qim. Enjoy all of this while staying at one of the world's truly grand hotels.

Day 1 – Valletta, Malta

On arrival at the Malta International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the Phoenicia Malta hotel (or similar), your home for the next two nights. Official check-in time is 3:00 p.m. A local representative will be present at a hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and answer any questions you may have.

Join your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception this evening. Dinner is independent and at your leisure.

Day 2 – Valletta

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before joining a guided walking tour of Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a stroll to the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views over the Grand Harbor. Your visit to the extraordinary interior of the 16th-century Co-Cathedral of St. John affords the opportunity to see Caravaggio’s massive masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist. And during your tour of the Palace of the Grand Master, which serves today as the office of the president of Malta, you will see the richly decorated state rooms and tapestry chamber.

The balance of the day is at leisure, with independent lunch and dinner.

Day 3 - Valletta | Embarkation

After breakfast and check out of the hotel, drive inland to the city of Mdina, the capital of Malta until the Knights of St. John moved it to Valletta in the 16th century. Your walking tour includes the stunning Baroque Cathedral of St. Paul, built on the site where it is said Paul converted the Roman governor to Christianity in the months following his shipwreck on the island in the year 60. From Mdina, drive to the a nearby winery for a tasting of some of Malta's finest wines before stopping at a historic local restaurant for a lunch of traditional Maltese specialties.

After lunch, drive to the southern coast of the island to visit the Hagar Qim Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating to 3600 BC. Located on a hilltop overlooking the sea, Hagar Qim is among the earliest free-standing stone buildings in the world. Following your guided tour of this extraordinary site, transfer to the pier to embark your ship.

Your hotel:

The Phoenicia Malta, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is Malta’s landmark hotel with a storied history spanning over 60 years. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel is situated in an ideal location just outside the walled city of Valletta and its 16th-century bastions. From the hotel’s front door, the historic wonders of Valletta, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, are all within easy walking distance. The hotel boasts 136 rooms and suites combining old-world elegance and a fresh style. Its modern conveniences ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay.

Your program includes:

· 2 nights at The Phoenicia Malta (or similar), including breakfast

· Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day

· Transfer and luggage handling to the pier on embarkation day

· Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1

· Breakfast on days 2 and 3

· Lunch on Day 3

· Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary

· Local English-speaking guide

· Gratuities for the drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:

· Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day

· Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program

Please note:

· It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 60 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.

· Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.

· The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are largely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.

· The duration of the visits is given as a guide only, and the order of the visits may change.

· This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.

· Program is offered on a space available basis.

· Program is subject to change without notice.

Hotel contact information:

The Phoenicia Malta

The Mall

Floriana FRN1478

Malta

Telephone: +356.2122.5241

Total

1,350 €/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys