Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Corsica and the Tuscan Archipelago by Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys
Nice - Nice
Dates:
18/07/2026
to
26/07/2026
days
nights on board
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
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 leisurely voyage around Corsica and along the coast of Tuscany explores the history of the region, especially the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was born on Corsica and exiled to Elba. It also allows for the discovery of the natural beauty found in the Corsican interior, in the lush forests surrounding Porto Ercole, and on the Cap Corse Peninsula. But is most particularly about la belle vie and la dolce vita as they are lived and enjoyed in the resort towns visited along the way— the sun-drenched beaches, the charming marinas, and the grand villas of Calvi, Propriano, and above all, Portofino.
Departing from Nice, France, your first port of call is on the French island of Corsica, where you may join a guided walking tour of the town of Calvi including its Citadel, with stunning views over the sea and the houses below, and the house of Christopher Columbus, who is believed to have been born here. Or you may travel outside of the city to enjoy a panoramic drive through the natural beauty of the island's interior, or to snorkel off the beach of the Revellatta Peninsula.
From the small marina-like harbor of Propriano, it is about an hour's drive to Bonifacio, stunningly perched on cliffs along Corsica's south coast. Here you stroll through the old town's winding medieval lanes of brightly colored houses and browse the stalls and shops of the old market while admiring dramatic views over rugged limestone cliffs that plunge to the sea below. For those who would prefer a day of relaxation, sun, and sand, shuttles will be available from the ship to Propriano's lovely beach.
The next four days are spent exploring the towns of Italy’s Tuscan coast, learning their history, admiring their architecture, enjoying their beauty, and savoring their cuisine. Begin with a day in Porto Ercole on an island connected to the mainland by three isthmuses and dominated by the lush forests of Monte Argentario. Choose between a hike on a mountain trail that leads to Spanish forts built in the 16th century to protect Tuscany from the Ottomans, or an e-bike tour through a nature reserve and around the Orbetello Lagoon.
On the tiny island of Giglio, visit its main town, Giglio Castello, a member of the consortium of Borghi più belli d’Italia, "The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy." There are two ways for you to reach the village—by minivan or by hiking to the hilltop along paths lined with local flora. Whichever mode of transport you choose, your guide will lead you through the town and the fortress that gives it its name, followed by a tasting of local wines.
Your exploration continues in Portoferraio, the main harbor of Elba. Most famous as the site of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile in 1814-15, Portoferraio offers a tour of Villa Dei Mulini, the Emperor’s winter residence during exile and a visit to the charming village of Porto Azzurro and enjoy a wine tasting and sampling of Tuscan mezze at a local vineyard.
Portofino, once a small fishing village and now a favored haunt of the rich and famous, is fittingly located at the southern end of the Italian Riviera. Enjoy a guided tour of this iconic resort town, walking among the brightly colored houses and pausing for stunning views at the Portofino Promontory and at the lighthouse at Punto del Capo. Or, take to a kayak and paddle through the harbor and along the coast for a perspective on Portofino from the water.
Your final day of discovery is based in the port town of Saint-Florent on Corsica's north coast, where options include a panoramic drive through the rugged and beautiful landscapes of Cap Corse Peninsula; a nature walk through the aromatic gardens of oleander, cypress, rosemary, and wild olive in Saleccia Park; and a guided tour of the town of Saint-Florent, enclosed by walls built by the Genoese in the 15th century.
Your voyage ends back in Nice.
Ref : NNEI45US - EU180726
Your 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...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
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.
You may also like...
You may also like...
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
05/11/2025 to the 23/11/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
03/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
*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
- Diptyque 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)
- Two 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
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- 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.
- Napoleon's winter residence on Elba.
- The dramatic cliffs of Bonifacio.
- Wine tastings in Giglio and Portoferraio.
- Panoramic drives through lush scenery from Calvi and Saint-Florent.
- Opportunities for active excursions – hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and e-biking.
- A full day and evening in iconic Portofino.
Ports of Call & Excursions
18 July 2026 - Nice
Embarkation 18/07/2026 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 18/07/2026 at 18:00
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
19 July 2026 - Calvi, Corsica
Arrival 19/07/2026 early morning
Departure 19/07/2026 evening
Nestled on a rocky spur in the north-west of Corsica, the port of Calvi offers its whiteness between two sapphire-coloured bays. Capital of the Balagne region, the Genoese city benefits from an exceptional natural setting between the abrupt relief of the central chain, fertile hills and long sandy beaches. From the promontory of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Serra chapel, built in the 19th century on the ruins of a 15th century sanctuary, you will not miss the sublime panorama of the seaside, the mountains and the Calvi citadel. A little further west, you will have the opportunity to discover with the peninsula of Revelatta, a wilder and more preserved part of Corsica.
20 July 2026 - Propriano, Corsica
Arrival 20/07/2026 early morning
Departure 20/07/2026 late afternoon
In southern Corsica, the small port of Propriano amazes with its rich history and surprises with its incredible beauty. Here, the coastline edging the scrubland, with its distinctly Mediterranean scents, alternates between long sandy beaches and breathtaking coves. At the heart of this wild environment, the coastal town exudes its unique atmosphere. Established in the late 2nd century B.C., the town developed thanks to Etruscan, Greek, and later Carthaginian traders. From the port, the panorama of the Gulf of Valinco is mesmerizing, as the sea spray mingles with the beautiful southern light.
21 July 2026 - Porto Ercole
Arrival 21/07/2026 early morning
Departure 21/07/2026 late afternoon
With its landscapes of undulating hills covered in lush meadows, narrow streets with colourful houses, and picturesque paths shaded by pines... Porto Ercole is a concentration of all of Tuscany’s beauty. And what would it be without a fascinating, mystery-filled history? Overlooked by its 16th century fortress, this small village is renowned for having witnessed the final days of the famous painter Caravaggio, said to be buried there. On the Monte Argentario peninsula, you might have the chance to meet the fishermen of the Orbetello Lagoon, classed as a natural reserve, who perpetuate traditional fishing methods, or meet local wine, olive oil and cheese producers. For our sportier guests, the surrounding wild and pristine nature will provide the opportunity for a hike along the island’s heights to enjoy breathtaking views.
22 July 2026 - Giglio
Arrival 22/07/2026
Departure 22/07/2026 late afternoon
On the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the small island of Giglio is home to a concentration of all of Tuscany’s secrets and beauty. Fine sandy beaches and hidden coves compose a landscape in which the emerald sea serves as a setting for wild nature. This mountainous land is covered by garrigue on which pine forest and vineyards grow, a real paradise in the Mediterranean. A walk through the heart of this bucolic environment will also be the opportunity to discover rich history, as reflected in the medieval village of Giglio Castello.
23 July 2026 - Portoferraio, Elba
Arrival 23/07/2026
Departure 23/07/2026 late afternoon
In the elbow of a creek on the northern coastline of Elba Island, a small corner of paradise awaits in the form of Portoferraio. As you approach its coastlines, you will make out the powerful and majestic contours of its Medici fortresses. Napoleon Bonaparte spent many of his 300 days in exile here. The Palazzina dei Mulini, his first imperial residence, whose gardens offer outstanding views of the sea, is a must-see. Historical treasures are followed by another kind of treasure, namely white sand beaches, and equally tempting local specialities including gurguglione and rice with cuttlefish ink.
24 July 2026 - Portofino
Arrival 24/07/2026 early morning
Departure 24/07/2026 evening
Close to the Cinque Terre, Portofino is the jewel of the Ligurian Riviera. This "small village that stretches like a half moon around a silent basin", described by Guy de Maupassant, is today a pretty, lively little port that has managed to preserve the authenticity of its maritime traditions, which have been recognised since Ancient times. Built in the hollow of a small natural cove sheltered by the pine forest, the village is at the heart of a protected maritime reserve. The shimmering colours of its house fronts and the exceptional location of this village have inspired many authors and artists. You will also see the Portofino lighthouse, immaculate in its green setting. Perched on the Punta del Capo, it watches over the peninsula and its postcard setting.
25 July 2026 - Saint-Florent, Corsica
Arrival 25/07/2026 early morning
Departure 25/07/2026 late afternoon
In the hollow of one of the most beautiful gulfs of the Mediterranean to which it owes its name, Saint-Florent is an ancient Genoese city whose citadel dominates the bay with its circular architecture. A link between the mountains of Upper Corsica and the Agriates desert, the fishing village has become a renowned seaside resort. In front of this jewel nestled in the hollow of a wild and isolated region, sublime beaches of fine sand border a sea of infinite turquoise shades. At the western tip of the gulf, the Tower of Mortella, built in the 16th century under the Republic of Genoa to prevent from invaders, stands watch. Like most of the towers that dot the Corsican coast, it is an emblematic and familiar symbol of the island.
26 July 2026 - Nice
Arrival 26/07/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 26/07/2026 at 08:00
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
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 Nice 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 Nice 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
Special Guest Speaker
On our departures in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, we are joined by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts who will provide an insightful English-language lecture series that enhances your experience with valuable context and new perspectives. From enriching talks to casual conversations on board, their in-depth knowledge will bring you deeper into the history, culture, and natural world of your destination.