Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys
Valletta - Livorno
Dates:
27/08/2025
to
04/09/2025
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 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 18th and 19th 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 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 6th 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.
Ref : VL0845US - EU270825
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 lectures and...
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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 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.
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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 lectures and discussions on board with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including archaeologist Albert Leonard and art historian and Renaissance scholar Aneta Georgievska-Shine.
- 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.
Ports of Call & Excursions
27 August 2025 - Valletta
Embarkation 27/08/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 27/08/2025 at 18:00
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.
28 August 2025 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 28/08/2025 early morning
Departure 28/08/2025 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.
29 August 2025 - Taormina, Sicily
Arrival 29/08/2025
Departure 29/08/2025 early evening
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.
30 August 2025 - Reggio di Calabria
Arrival 30/08/2025
Departure 30/08/2025 late afternoon
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.
31 August 2025 - Agropoli
Arrival 31/08/2025 early morning
Departure 31/08/2025 early evening
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.
1 September 2025 - Naples
Arrival 01/09/2025
Departure 01/09/2025 late afternoon
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.
2 September 2025 - Civitavecchia (Rome)
Arrival 02/09/2025 early morning
Departure 02/09/2025 late afternoon
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.
3 September 2025 4 September 2025 - Livorno
Arrival 03/09/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 04/09/2025 at 08:00
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.
Archaeological Park & Museum
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
From the archaeological area, continue to the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, the largest and most complete in Sicily and one of the best collections in all of Europe. It houses materials found in Sicily from prehistoric times through the Romans, but focuses mainly on the civilization of the Greek colonial period.
· This excursion involves approximately a half mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking 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.
Archaeological Park & Sicilian Flavors
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
Leaving Syracuse, drive through the Sicilian countryside into the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea to Casa Bianca Lentini, one of the best farm-to-table agriturismo houses in the region, where you will be warmly welcomed by the Notarbartolo family and treated to an extraordinary meal prepared onsite from entirely locally-sourced products.
· This excursion involves approximately a mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. It is not recommended for those with limited mobility. You should wear comfortable walking 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.
Nero d'Avola Wine Tasting
Southeastern Sicily, particularly the area around Noto, is the original home of the famous Nero d'Avola, a deep red grape that produces a bold, fruity wine. This excursion takes you to one of the leading vineyards producing this wine, for a tour of the estate and a tasting of several of vintages.
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Syracuse before departing the city to travel southward along the coast to Avola, the seaside town that gives its name to the grape, and then inland to the Zisola Winery. Situated on a hill with views over the nearby baroque city of Noto, the estate includes about 60 acres of vines, cultivated in the albarello tradition of 'bush-training', which allows for a density of over 2,000 vines per acre.
Your guided tour begins in the vineyards, where you will learn more about the labor-intensive system of pruning that requires countless hours of work per acre—but produces a very high yield. You then then move to the barrel cellar in the main building, where you are treated to a tasting of 3 wines, paired with a variety of mezze from the region.
· This is an easy excursion that involves little walking. Lightweight clothing and flat, closed-toes shoes are recommended—as is sun protection. Note: Participation is limited to 20 guests.
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 Baroque Town of Noto
Noto has origins in the ancient past, having been founded in the 5th century B.C. during the period of Greek colonization, but it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1693. The subsequent rebuilding of the city according to 18th-century ideas of architectural design and town planning has made Noto the quintessential example of Sicilian Baroque. The town is built on terraces connected by monumental flights of steps and is filled with churches and palaces with varying degrees of embellishment but sharing a common architectural theme.
Upon arrival, walk across the Public Gardens, where busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style are on display. The centrally located and resplendent Cathedral has been restored following the earthquake of 1990. You will also visit other impressive buildings, including the Churches of St. Domenico and St. Charles, the Ducezio Palace, and Villadorata Palace. Noto was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and the United Nations provides financial support for the ongoing reconstruction of the town’s monuments.
At the end of your walking tour of this beautiful town, stop at a local bar specializing in gelato and sorbet, where you will sample some of the treats for which Noto is famous – especially a granita with brioche and coffee.
· Restoration works on the monuments of Noto are almost completed, but access to some interiors might still be restricted. This excursion involves about 1 mile of walking over mostly easy terrain and steps to enter churches. Comfortable shoes and using sunscreen and hats for protection are highly recommended. Appropriate dress is expected when you enter churches (shoulders/knees 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.
Walking Tour of Ortygia Island
Ortygia, a tiny island just off the coast, is the original center of the ancient city of Syracuse. Meet your guide at the pier and begin your exploration on foot of this tangle of narrow streets that open onto splendid piazzas.
At the Piazza Pancali discover the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Next, walk through the food market and delight in the sounds and smells as you discover a vast selection of the region’s produce, meats, seafood, and cheeses.
Walk along the Corso Matteotti and through Archimedes Square en route to the stunning Piazza del Duomo. As the name suggests, this is the site of the Cathedral of Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the entire city. Originally built in the 5th century B.C. as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and later turned into a Christian Basilica, it features a Baroque façade, constructed during the restoration following the 1693 earthquake.
End at the Fountain of Arethusa, one of Ortygia’s most beautiful monuments, reflecting the legend that the nymph Arethusa was turned into a beautiful spring by Artemis to help her escape the pursuit of a crazed lover.
· This excursion involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven terrain and cobblestones as well as some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is expected to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees 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.
Taormina and Its Ancient Greek Theater
Taormina is perched on the side of Mount Tauro, offering superb views of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella, and a snow-capped Mt. Etna in the background. A maze of narrow streets enlivened by the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders, Taormina's beauty and strategic location have attracted many different civilizations over the centuries, all of which have left their mark on the town: It is home to theaters and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of a Byzantine past, and villas built as retreats for the European aristocracy of the 18th and 19th centuries.
This excursion begins with a visit on foot to Taormina's historic center. Cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile, and Palazzo Corvaja. Take the time at Teatro Antico, the Ancient Greek Theater, to appreciate this remarkable legacy of earlier cultures. The theater was built by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans as a gladiatorial arena. It is the second largest theater in Sicily, after the one in Syracuse. Because of its size and acoustic quality, it is still in use to host festivals and concerts in the summer. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the performance while admiring a breathtaking view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna in the background.
· As this excursion involves a walk of about 1.5 miles over rough terrain with several stairways, we advise that you wear sturdy shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shoulders and legs should be covered if entering the Cathedral.
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.
Mount Etna & Benanti Winery
Board you coach for a drive up the winding roads that work their way along the slopes of Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Begin with a drive through the small town of Naxos, which was found by Greek colonizers in the 8th century B.C., and then pass the town of Giarre and the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana en route. Your destination on Mt. Etna is the Crateri Silvestri area, a collection of inactive craters that were formed during a massive eruption in 1892. From here, the views across the Gulf of Catania and the vineyards clinging to the mountainside are breathtaking .
From this scenic spot, continue to the Benanti Winery, Monte Serra Estate, where you will join members of the staff for a visit to the vineyards and a tour of the estate's historic oak barrel room.
A typical Sicilian lunch will be served, accompanied by samples of several of the winery’s finest vintages—a leisurely introduction to some of the delights of Sicilian cuisine.
· This excursion includes about half a mile of walking along uneven and sometimes slippery terrain at Mt. Etna; some walking and steps at the winery. Altitude at Crateri Silvestri is about 6500 feet, so the air is thin. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen/hats for protection from the sun. We also recommend you bring a sweater or windproof jacket.
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.
Catania Fish Market & Street Food
The port city of Catania, about 30 miles south of Taormina, is Sicily's economic and commercial hub. Its old town in the center of the city, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most exuberant late-Baroque architecture to be found anywhere in Europe—particularly the Cathedral and the Palazzo Biscari.
On arrival in Catania, you will walk along the city's main street, passing both of these spectacular buildings, but your true destination is the authentic center of the city: the Mercato del Pesce, Catania's famed street market. As the name suggests, there is an abundance of seafood of every description on sale here, but just about any other sort of food you can imagine is also available—oranges and almonds from nearby orchards, roasted peppers, cured meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads. The sights, sounds, and smells are absolutely exhilarating. You will certainly want to sample some arancini, Sicily's emblematic street food of fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. And a cannoli or two from one of the patisseries would be the perfect end to your experience of Catania's food scene.
· This tour involves a little more than a mile of walking over sometimes uneven cobblestone surfaces, and there are some steps to negotiate. It may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking 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.
Vibo Valentina and the Statti Winery
A drive north from Reggio passes through a number of towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The city of Vibo Valentina was one of those towns.
Now the capital of the province with the same name, Vibo is home to a massive Norman Castle that houses an excellent Archaeological Museum. Serious excavations began here in 1921 under the direction of famed archaeologist Paolo Orsi, and the museum now displays artifacts dating to as early as the 7th century BC. Enjoy a guided tour of the collections, which include ancient Greek pottery, bronze basins and helmets, gold jewelry, and fragments from a large Doric temple. The castle’s imposing height also offers sweeping views over the sea below toward the Aeolian Islands.
Continue your drive north along the coast to Lamezia Terme and the Statti Winery. The Statti family have been producing wine, olive oil, and cheeses on these lands since the 18th century, and they will warmly welcome you to their estate, show you around the vineyards and the winery, and then serve a meal of Calabrian specialties, including various olive oils, salamis, cheeses and wines—many from their own farms.
· This tour includes approximately 2 miles of walking along both flat and uneven surfaces, with some steps to navigate. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen and hats for 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.
Riace Bronzes, Scilla & Chianalea
Reggio Calabria, located at the very tip of the Italian Peninsula, is the site of the earliest Greek colony—the first outpost in what the Romans called Magna Graecia, "greater Greece." Today it is home to the magnificent Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, one of the best collections of ancient artifacts in the world.
The highlight of the collection is undoubtedly the celebrated Riace Bronzes, sculptures of two larger-than-life Greek warriors dating from the 5th century B.C. that were found in 1972 in the waters off Calabria’s Ionian coast. The statues are perhaps the finest surviving examples of Greek bronze statues of the Classical period. It is believed that they were crafted by Athenian sculptors after the victory over the Persians at the Battle of Marathon (490 B.C.), and dedicated at Delphi.
From the museum, travel northward along the coast to the village of Scilla, situated at the northern entrance to the Strait of Messina. Homer described this ancient spot as home to the nymph-turned-sea-monster who devoured six of Odysseus's crew during his journey home from Troy. Today, Scilla is a resort town where you will visit Ruffo Castle, a fortress built by the Dukes of Calabria on a promontory overlooking the Strait, and the small fishing village of Chianalea. Descending from the castle, enjoy wandering through Chianalea's narrow streets, many of which lead to terraces that jut into the sea, and others that are lined with ancient fountains, churches and palaces. You will have time at leisure for a bit of shopping before returning to the ship.
· This is a moderate tour including approximately 1.5 miles of walking along uneven surfaces with several steps and inclines. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen and hats for 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 Bergamot Museum
Reggio di Calabria is a major center for growing bergamot, the bitter fruit harvested primarily for the essential oils extracted from its skin. Used extensively as an ingredient in perfumes and as an element of Earl Grey tea, bergamot is also used in aromatherapy and is frequently touted for its medicinal properties—particularly its apparent ability to lower cholesterol levels. Because of these many uses and because the climate of Reggio Calabria is ideal for its growth, bergamot processing is a significant element of the local economy. Significant enough to have prompted the establishment of a museum to celebrate it.
Your excursion begins with a leisurely stroll along Reggio's famous waterfront before driving to the Museo Nazionale del Bergamotto, where you will be introduced to the history of the production of bergamot in Calabria and explore a remarkable collection of machines for pressing and processing the fruit, many of them invented locally. Proceeding through the exhibit, you arrive at a workshop for a presentation on the myriad uses of bergamot and enjoy a sampling of some of the many products, including refreshments, made from bergamot juice and oil.
· This is an easy excursion, involving very little walking. You will want comfortable shoes nonetheless, and layered clothing.
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.
Pizzo:History and Ice Cream
A drive north from Reggio along the coast passes through a number of small towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The village of Pizzo, situated on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Saint Euphemia, is one of those towns.
The earliest records of Pizzo are from 14th-century, when it was a small fishing village with a community of monks. By the 15th century, it had a castle, built by the Aragonese, which still dominates the town. Your guided walking tour of Pizzo's historic center offers stunning views over the gulf, especially from the vantage of the central Piazza della República.
It is here, in one of the many gelaterias, where you will stop to sample the pride of Pizzo—a rich hazelnut and chocolate gelato invented by a local vendor to capture the essence of a decadent truffle. This dessert is so closely identified with the town that it is known throughout Italy as tartufo di Pizzo. Enjoy some time at leisure before returning to your ship in Reggio.
· This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven ground with several steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking 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.
Ancient Paestum
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. The town these people founded, which they named Poseidonia, in honor of the Greek god of the sea, was renamed Paestum in the 4th-century B.C. and became one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia.
Situated along trade routes and surrounded by fertile land, the city grew quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving about two hours of standing and walking on uneven and rough terrain. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. As always, sturdy shoes and protection from the sun 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.
Campania Mozzarella & Ancient Paestum
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. It is certainly why this corner of Campania has become famous for the production of mozzarella cheese. Your excursion begins with a short drive to an antique mozzarella dairy that prides itself on using only milk produced by buffalos on the farm. See traditional Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella in the making, and sample the product along with focaccia and tomatoes.
The fertile land in this region is also part of the reason that ancient Greeks settled and founded Paestum, one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia, growing quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving about two hours of standing and walking on uneven and rough terrain. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. As always, sturdy shoes and protection from the sun 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.
Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Winery
Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, Pompeii was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. and buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
After the visit to Pompeii, travel to Mt. Vesuvius to tour one of its many wineries. The characteristics of the volcanic soil and a unique microclimate make the slopes of Vesuvius one of Italy's most interesting wine producing regions. You will be guided through the production area and the cellars by a member of the staff who will explain their processs, and then you will sit down to a lunch of local fare, paired with a selection of wines, including Lacryma Christi White, Red and Rose, Aglianico, and Falanghina, as well as an Apricot grappa.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun (there is no shade at Pompeii).
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.
Pompeii & Herculaneum
Spend the day exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Roman towns that were destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, both towns were buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of the public spaces, temples and villas of these towns.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, travel to nearby Herculaneum, a much smaller site than Pompeii, but where buildings and paintings are even better preserved. The mosaics at Casa del Nettuno de Anfitrite, for example, exhibit intense, vibrant colors. And at the two-story House of the Deer, paintings and furnishings reveal wealth and an opulent lifestyle that would rival the villas of Roman senators. Private baths and fountains are virtually untouched by decay.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun (there is no shade at Pompeii).
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.
Pizza & Pompeii
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive southward along the coast to Sorrento, where you visit one of the agriturismo farmhouses that populate this region of Campania. See an olive press at work turning the fruit into EVOO; watch as Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella is made; and then attend a pizza making class, followed by a lunch of bruschetta, olives, wine, and the pizza you have made, and finished with a taste of the limoncello liqueur for which Sorrento is famous.
On the return to Naples, stop in Pompeii, to explore its fabled archaeological site, the result a catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., which buried the city under a dense layer of ash and pumice, at the same time preserving buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun (there is no shade at Pompeii).
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 Street Food of Naples
This walking tour along Spaccanapoli—the long and straight main street that runs through Naples's historic city center—includes Piazza del Gesù, the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site; Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and the 13th-century church of the same name; and San Gregorio Armeno, famous for the beautifully crafted nativity scenes produced by the artisans whose shops line the street.
But the real purpose of strolling through these areas it to taste some of the marvelous street foods for which Naples is known. Moving from piazza to piazza, you will sample Neapolitan cuoppo, paper cones filled with a variety of fried foods (fish, mozzarella, zucchini, eggplant, potato, etc.) accompanied by a beer or soft drink; Pizza a portafoglio (wallet pizza) a small pie, folded over on itself and wrapped in paper so that it can eaten while standing or walking; and Sfogliatella, the iconic Neapolitan pastry shell of many layers of thin, flaky dough filled with a mixture of ricotta, semolina, and lemon zest.
After this culinary indulgence, enjoy a bit of time at leisure for independent exploration and shopping before returning to the pier and your ship.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving about three hours of walking over uneven cobblestone paths, with few opportunities to sit. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. We recommend comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection
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 Amalfi Coast
Your full day excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Amalfi Coast begins with a scenic drive south from the port, along the eastern shore of the Gulf of Naples, and across the Sorrentine Peninsula to reach the breathtakingly beautiful road that runs along the southern coast of the peninsula from Sorrento to Amalfi—the Amalfi Drive. Enjoy jaw-dropping views as your driver navigates the narrow, winding route that clings to sheer cliffs plunging into the sea below. Stop briefly at a site with panoramic views overlooking the village of Positano, whose pastel-colored houses and boutiques has attracted poets and artists for centuries, and then continue to the town of Amalfi itself.
In Amalfi, your guide will lead you through this charming medieval town to the main square, dominated by an imposing 12th-century cathedral, the Duomo di Amalfi. Time for independent exploration of the cobbled streets, rustic buildings, and flowering gardens in the area around the central piazza is followed by a short cruise aboard a local motor-launch—providing an opportunity to appreciate the rugged coastline from a different perspective. Disembark in the town of Maiori, just up the coast from Amalfi, where you will be served a leisurely 4-course meal of Campanian specialties in a restaurant with views over the sea.
Rejoin your coach and driver to continue along the Amalfi Drive to Vietri Sul Mare, where you join the highway for the return trip to Naples and your ship.
· This is a relatively easy excursion. There are uneven and cobblestone surfaces as well as many steps, but the amount of walking is largely at your discretion. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun 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.
Roman Highlights
Set out on a comprehensive exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks, from the ancient grandeur of the Colosseum to the charming beauty of its squares and fountains.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome, journey back to the days of the Gladiators with a visit to the incredible and imposing Colosseum, also known as Flavian Amphitheater. Learn about its history, architecture, and the events that took place within its walls. Enter this elliptical amphitheater, still the largest in the world, and see hundreds of rows of marble seats, at one point accommodating up to 55,000 spectators for fierce Gladiatorial games. Discover the long neglected subterranean passageways and holding chambers used by the competitors.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then drive to the city center to start your walking tour of the Eternal City. Stroll through Piazza di Spagna and admire the Spanish Steps, then proceed to Trevi Fountain where you’ll get the opportunity to toss a coin and ensure your return to the Eternal City. Proceed to the Pantheon (outside only) and marvel at its impressive dome. Conclude your walking tour at Piazza Navona, known for its exquisite fountains and Baroque architecture. Reboard your coach and return to Civitavecchia, reflecting on the day's experiences and sights.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as 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.
Rome’s Street Food
Enjoy a delightful blend of culinary exploration and leisure time in the Eternal City.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Begin your three-hour culinary tour in the historic city center. Explore the narrow streets of Rome's historic district, starting at Via del Portico d'Ottavia in the Jewish Quarter. Sample delicacies such as fried codfish and Pizza Bianca with mortadella, accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Continue your culinary adventure at Campo de Fiori, a bustling food market known for its seasonal delicacies. Sample more local specialties and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
After your food tour, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. Then, meet your guide in the late afternoon and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun. Please consider dietary restrictions and/or food allergies when selecting this tour.
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.
Pasta Making at a Local Farmhouse
Enjoy the unique and immersive experience of hands-on pasta-making and authentic Italian cuisine amidst the serene landscapes of the Italian countryside.
Depart the pier in Civitavecchia and embark on a 30-minute scenic drive through the Etruscan countryside. Learn about the history and culture of the mighty civilization that once inhabited this region as you drive through vineyards and olive groves on your way to a local farmhouse in Tarquinia. Arrive at the farmhouse to a warm welcome from the owners. Begin your culinary adventure by choosing your ingredients and learning how to prepare and cook an authentic Italian lunch. Enjoy a hands-on demonstration and perfect your pasta-making technique under the guidance of your host, culminating in the creation of your own homemade pasta dish. Sit down to a delightful meal featuring your culinary creations, accompanied by flavorful Italian wine. Relax and soak in the tranquil ambiance of the countryside before returning to Civitavecchia.
· This is an easy to moderate excursion, requiring very little walking, although there are some uneven surfaces. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended. Please consider dietary restrictions and/or food allergies when selecting this tour.
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.
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, & St. Peter’s Square
Set out on an immersive exploration of Vatican City's cultural treasures, followed by leisure time in Rome for shopping and personal exploration.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Explore the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of artworks spanning centuries. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists as you journey through the museum's galleries. Visit the Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic "Last Judgment."
Continue your tour by walking to St. Peter's Square, where you'll admire the grand colonnade, symbolizing the far-reaching embrace of the Catholic Church. See St. Peter's Basilica from the outside and hear about its history and Italian High Renaissance architecture from your guide. Then, board your coach and transfer to a local restaurant for lunch.
After lunch, continue to Piazza del Popolo (The People’s Square). Enjoy some free time for shopping and self-exploration in the city center. Meet your guide and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about three miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun. A strict dress code is enforced in the Vatican Museum (Sistine Chapel). Shorts and tank tops are not permitted, and shoulders must be covered. Guests may be required to check large bags, backpacks, video cameras and/or personal water bottles at designated check points. Flash photos are not permitted in the Vatican Museums. Video and photography are not permitted at any time in the Sistine Chapel.
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.
Renaissance Florence
Florence is universally acknowledged as the cradle of the Italian Renaissance and is a virtual living museum of art and architecture—a piazza, or building, or sculpture, designed by Brunelleschi, or Michelangelo, or Alberti seemingly around every corner. This full day excursion offers an opportunity to see many of the most important of them.
Arriving in Florence after a drive through the Tuscan countryside, meet your expert guide at the Galleria dell ’Accademia, which houses Michelangelo's David. Commissioned in 1501 by the Opera Del Duomo and originally placed in the public square in front of the Palazzo della Signoria, Michelangelo's masterpiece was moved indoors in 1873 to protect it from the weather. The statue has been revered throughout the ages as one of the Renaissance's greatest achievements.
In the Piazza del Duomo, you will find Brunelleschi's Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the 4th largest church in Europe, as well as the octagonal Baptistery of St. John and Giotto's Bell Tower, designed in 1334. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, famous for its outdoor sculpture gallery and for the magnificent Palazzo Vecchio, which still serves as Florence’s town hall.
The last stop on your guided tour will be the Basilica of Santa Croce, built by Arnolfo di Cambio in 1294 for the Franciscan order. Santa Croce is something of a Pantheon for the illustrious citizens of Florence, housing the graves of Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Galileo Galilei, and Rossini, among many others.
After lunch at one of Florence's many fine restaurants, enjoy some time at leisure to browse on your own before returning to Livorno and your ship.
· There is a great deal of walking during this excursion—as much as 3.5 miles—most of it on cobblestones. Guests should be in good physical condition, wear sturdy shoes, and bring 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.
Lucca & Pisa
Lucca is unusual, perhaps unique, among walled cities in that the ramparts that enclose it are one of its defining characteristics and an enduring resource for communal activity. Arriving after an hour's drive through scenic Tuscan countryside, you will be struck, first, by the sheer size of the 16th- and 17th-century walls that completely surround the historic center of the city. They have a circumference of 3 miles, stand 40 feet high, and are topped with a tree-lined footpath that is in constant use for picnics, playgrounds, and evening strolls.
Once inside the walls, your expert guide will lead you on a walking tour, beginning with the Basilica of San Frediano, said to have been founded by a bishop of that name in the 6th century. It is famous for the large mosaic on its facade depicting Christ the Redeemer ascending to heaven. Just across from the church is Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, the site of a Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century AD. The remains of the Roman structure are now incorporated in the buildings that border the piazza, giving it a distinctive elliptical shape.
Your path through the labyrinthine streets of the medieval city passes the Romanesque Cathedral of San Martino, believed to have been decorated in part by Nicola Pisano, before culminating in the Piazza San Michele, the historic center of the city. Enjoy some time at leisure before sitting down to lunch at a local restaurant.
It is a 30-minute drive from Lucca to Pisa, where your guide will accompany you to the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) and allow you to explore this area of wonderful art and architecture on your own, perhaps beginning with the world-famous Leaning Tower. Visit the Duomo, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, the Romanesque Baptistery, and the Monumental Cemetery, at your own pace and following your own interests. After about an hour and a half of this self-guided tour, meet up with your guide and return to Livorno.
· This is an excursion for guests who are capable of and enjoy walking: in Lucca the walking totals approximately 2.5 miles, and in Pisa it can be as much as 2 additional miles. Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must, 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.
Volterra and its Etruscan Museum
From Livorno, a drive of about an hour through the Tuscan countryside brings you to the city of Volterra, whose original Etruscan walls are still visible today. On arrival, you will be joined by your expert local guide for a walking tour of the city center.
Reflecting its rich history, Volterra's old town is a mix of Roman and medieval buildings. Begin your tour with the 13th-century Palazzo dei Priori, Tuscany's first town hall. Its simple facade and fortress-like crenellations served as a model for other similar structures throughout the region, including Florence's Palazzo Vecchio. Volterra's town leaders still meet here in the palace's Sala del Consiglio.
Moving from the political center of the city to the religious, visit Volterra's Duomo and Baptistery, both of which are invaluable examples of Romanesque art and architecture. A highlight of the Duomo (officially, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta) is the group of five brightly painted wooden sculptures from the 13th century that portray the Deposition of Christ from the Cross. The 16th-century pulpit in the middle of the nave is adorned with fine 14th-century sculpted panels, attributed the Pisano family, while the Baptistery features both a small marble baptismal font carved by Andrea Sansovino in 1502 and a much larger one from the 18th-century.
The Etruscan Museum, the last stop on your guided tour, is one of the earliest public museums in Europe, founded by Mario Guarnacci, an avid collector of antiquities, when he donated his collection to “the citizens of the city of Volterra” in 1761.
After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy ample time at leisure to explore Volterra on your own and perhaps to shop for some alabaster, for which Volterra has been famous since Etruscan times.
· This is a lengthy excursion, involving a total of approximately 3.5 miles of walking over sometime steep terrain and often over cobblestones. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy, comfortable shores are a must -- 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.
Le Dumont d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, an underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Decks
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, including archaeologist Albert Leonard and art historian and Renaissance scholar Aneta Georgievska-Shine
- 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
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.
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.
Back-to-back: 20% off
Cruise eligible for the back-to-back offer*: If you also book the previous cruise, get 20% off this one!
*Offer valid from 10/04/2024 until the date of the last departure with the code ‘COMBO20’. On selected departures, take advantage of a 20% discount on your second cruise. The discount applies to the port/port cruise fare only (excluding port taxes) and does not apply to sea panoramas. It is subject to availability at the time of booking and cannot be combined with travel agent fares.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
MALTESE HIGHLIGHTS (2 NIGHTS)
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 : 1,100 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Archaeological Park & Museum
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
From the archaeological area, continue to the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, the largest and most complete in Sicily and one of the best collections in all of Europe. It houses materials found in Sicily from prehistoric times through the Romans, but focuses mainly on the civilization of the Greek colonial period.
· This excursion involves approximately a half mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking 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.
Archaeological Park & Sicilian Flavors
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
Leaving Syracuse, drive through the Sicilian countryside into the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea to Casa Bianca Lentini, one of the best farm-to-table agriturismo houses in the region, where you will be warmly welcomed by the Notarbartolo family and treated to an extraordinary meal prepared onsite from entirely locally-sourced products.
· This excursion involves approximately a mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. It is not recommended for those with limited mobility. You should wear comfortable walking 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.
Nero d'Avola Wine Tasting
Southeastern Sicily, particularly the area around Noto, is the original home of the famous Nero d'Avola, a deep red grape that produces a bold, fruity wine. This excursion takes you to one of the leading vineyards producing this wine, for a tour of the estate and a tasting of several of vintages.
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Syracuse before departing the city to travel southward along the coast to Avola, the seaside town that gives its name to the grape, and then inland to the Zisola Winery. Situated on a hill with views over the nearby baroque city of Noto, the estate includes about 60 acres of vines, cultivated in the albarello tradition of 'bush-training', which allows for a density of over 2,000 vines per acre.
Your guided tour begins in the vineyards, where you will learn more about the labor-intensive system of pruning that requires countless hours of work per acre—but produces a very high yield. You then then move to the barrel cellar in the main building, where you are treated to a tasting of 3 wines, paired with a variety of mezze from the region.
· This is an easy excursion that involves little walking. Lightweight clothing and flat, closed-toes shoes are recommended—as is sun protection. Note: Participation is limited to 20 guests.
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 Baroque Town of Noto
Noto has origins in the ancient past, having been founded in the 5th century B.C. during the period of Greek colonization, but it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1693. The subsequent rebuilding of the city according to 18th-century ideas of architectural design and town planning has made Noto the quintessential example of Sicilian Baroque. The town is built on terraces connected by monumental flights of steps and is filled with churches and palaces with varying degrees of embellishment but sharing a common architectural theme.
Upon arrival, walk across the Public Gardens, where busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style are on display. The centrally located and resplendent Cathedral has been restored following the earthquake of 1990. You will also visit other impressive buildings, including the Churches of St. Domenico and St. Charles, the Ducezio Palace, and Villadorata Palace. Noto was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and the United Nations provides financial support for the ongoing reconstruction of the town’s monuments.
At the end of your walking tour of this beautiful town, stop at a local bar specializing in gelato and sorbet, where you will sample some of the treats for which Noto is famous – especially a granita with brioche and coffee.
· Restoration works on the monuments of Noto are almost completed, but access to some interiors might still be restricted. This excursion involves about 1 mile of walking over mostly easy terrain and steps to enter churches. Comfortable shoes and using sunscreen and hats for protection are highly recommended. Appropriate dress is expected when you enter churches (shoulders/knees 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.
Walking Tour of Ortygia Island
Ortygia, a tiny island just off the coast, is the original center of the ancient city of Syracuse. Meet your guide at the pier and begin your exploration on foot of this tangle of narrow streets that open onto splendid piazzas.
At the Piazza Pancali discover the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Next, walk through the food market and delight in the sounds and smells as you discover a vast selection of the region’s produce, meats, seafood, and cheeses.
Walk along the Corso Matteotti and through Archimedes Square en route to the stunning Piazza del Duomo. As the name suggests, this is the site of the Cathedral of Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the entire city. Originally built in the 5th century B.C. as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and later turned into a Christian Basilica, it features a Baroque façade, constructed during the restoration following the 1693 earthquake.
End at the Fountain of Arethusa, one of Ortygia’s most beautiful monuments, reflecting the legend that the nymph Arethusa was turned into a beautiful spring by Artemis to help her escape the pursuit of a crazed lover.
· This excursion involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven terrain and cobblestones as well as some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is expected to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees 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.
Taormina and Its Ancient Greek Theater
Taormina is perched on the side of Mount Tauro, offering superb views of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella, and a snow-capped Mt. Etna in the background. A maze of narrow streets enlivened by the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders, Taormina's beauty and strategic location have attracted many different civilizations over the centuries, all of which have left their mark on the town: It is home to theaters and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of a Byzantine past, and villas built as retreats for the European aristocracy of the 18th and 19th centuries.
This excursion begins with a visit on foot to Taormina's historic center. Cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile, and Palazzo Corvaja. Take the time at Teatro Antico, the Ancient Greek Theater, to appreciate this remarkable legacy of earlier cultures. The theater was built by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans as a gladiatorial arena. It is the second largest theater in Sicily, after the one in Syracuse. Because of its size and acoustic quality, it is still in use to host festivals and concerts in the summer. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the performance while admiring a breathtaking view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna in the background.
· As this excursion involves a walk of about 1.5 miles over rough terrain with several stairways, we advise that you wear sturdy shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shoulders and legs should be covered if entering the Cathedral.
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.
Mount Etna & Benanti Winery
Board you coach for a drive up the winding roads that work their way along the slopes of Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Begin with a drive through the small town of Naxos, which was found by Greek colonizers in the 8th century B.C., and then pass the town of Giarre and the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana en route. Your destination on Mt. Etna is the Crateri Silvestri area, a collection of inactive craters that were formed during a massive eruption in 1892. From here, the views across the Gulf of Catania and the vineyards clinging to the mountainside are breathtaking .
From this scenic spot, continue to the Benanti Winery, Monte Serra Estate, where you will join members of the staff for a visit to the vineyards and a tour of the estate's historic oak barrel room.
A typical Sicilian lunch will be served, accompanied by samples of several of the winery’s finest vintages—a leisurely introduction to some of the delights of Sicilian cuisine.
· This excursion includes about half a mile of walking along uneven and sometimes slippery terrain at Mt. Etna; some walking and steps at the winery. Altitude at Crateri Silvestri is about 6500 feet, so the air is thin. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen/hats for protection from the sun. We also recommend you bring a sweater or windproof jacket.
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.
Catania Fish Market & Street Food
The port city of Catania, about 30 miles south of Taormina, is Sicily's economic and commercial hub. Its old town in the center of the city, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most exuberant late-Baroque architecture to be found anywhere in Europe—particularly the Cathedral and the Palazzo Biscari.
On arrival in Catania, you will walk along the city's main street, passing both of these spectacular buildings, but your true destination is the authentic center of the city: the Mercato del Pesce, Catania's famed street market. As the name suggests, there is an abundance of seafood of every description on sale here, but just about any other sort of food you can imagine is also available—oranges and almonds from nearby orchards, roasted peppers, cured meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads. The sights, sounds, and smells are absolutely exhilarating. You will certainly want to sample some arancini, Sicily's emblematic street food of fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. And a cannoli or two from one of the patisseries would be the perfect end to your experience of Catania's food scene.
· This tour involves a little more than a mile of walking over sometimes uneven cobblestone surfaces, and there are some steps to negotiate. It may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking 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.
Vibo Valentina and the Statti Winery
A drive north from Reggio passes through a number of towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The city of Vibo Valentina was one of those towns.
Now the capital of the province with the same name, Vibo is home to a massive Norman Castle that houses an excellent Archaeological Museum. Serious excavations began here in 1921 under the direction of famed archaeologist Paolo Orsi, and the museum now displays artifacts dating to as early as the 7th century BC. Enjoy a guided tour of the collections, which include ancient Greek pottery, bronze basins and helmets, gold jewelry, and fragments from a large Doric temple. The castle’s imposing height also offers sweeping views over the sea below toward the Aeolian Islands.
Continue your drive north along the coast to Lamezia Terme and the Statti Winery. The Statti family have been producing wine, olive oil, and cheeses on these lands since the 18th century, and they will warmly welcome you to their estate, show you around the vineyards and the winery, and then serve a meal of Calabrian specialties, including various olive oils, salamis, cheeses and wines—many from their own farms.
· This tour includes approximately 2 miles of walking along both flat and uneven surfaces, with some steps to navigate. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen and hats for 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.
Riace Bronzes, Scilla & Chianalea
Reggio Calabria, located at the very tip of the Italian Peninsula, is the site of the earliest Greek colony—the first outpost in what the Romans called Magna Graecia, "greater Greece." Today it is home to the magnificent Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, one of the best collections of ancient artifacts in the world.
The highlight of the collection is undoubtedly the celebrated Riace Bronzes, sculptures of two larger-than-life Greek warriors dating from the 5th century B.C. that were found in 1972 in the waters off Calabria’s Ionian coast. The statues are perhaps the finest surviving examples of Greek bronze statues of the Classical period. It is believed that they were crafted by Athenian sculptors after the victory over the Persians at the Battle of Marathon (490 B.C.), and dedicated at Delphi.
From the museum, travel northward along the coast to the village of Scilla, situated at the northern entrance to the Strait of Messina. Homer described this ancient spot as home to the nymph-turned-sea-monster who devoured six of Odysseus's crew during his journey home from Troy. Today, Scilla is a resort town where you will visit Ruffo Castle, a fortress built by the Dukes of Calabria on a promontory overlooking the Strait, and the small fishing village of Chianalea. Descending from the castle, enjoy wandering through Chianalea's narrow streets, many of which lead to terraces that jut into the sea, and others that are lined with ancient fountains, churches and palaces. You will have time at leisure for a bit of shopping before returning to the ship.
· This is a moderate tour including approximately 1.5 miles of walking along uneven surfaces with several steps and inclines. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen and hats for 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 Bergamot Museum
Reggio di Calabria is a major center for growing bergamot, the bitter fruit harvested primarily for the essential oils extracted from its skin. Used extensively as an ingredient in perfumes and as an element of Earl Grey tea, bergamot is also used in aromatherapy and is frequently touted for its medicinal properties—particularly its apparent ability to lower cholesterol levels. Because of these many uses and because the climate of Reggio Calabria is ideal for its growth, bergamot processing is a significant element of the local economy. Significant enough to have prompted the establishment of a museum to celebrate it.
Your excursion begins with a leisurely stroll along Reggio's famous waterfront before driving to the Museo Nazionale del Bergamotto, where you will be introduced to the history of the production of bergamot in Calabria and explore a remarkable collection of machines for pressing and processing the fruit, many of them invented locally. Proceeding through the exhibit, you arrive at a workshop for a presentation on the myriad uses of bergamot and enjoy a sampling of some of the many products, including refreshments, made from bergamot juice and oil.
· This is an easy excursion, involving very little walking. You will want comfortable shoes nonetheless, and layered clothing.
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.
Pizzo:History and Ice Cream
A drive north from Reggio along the coast passes through a number of small towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The village of Pizzo, situated on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Saint Euphemia, is one of those towns.
The earliest records of Pizzo are from 14th-century, when it was a small fishing village with a community of monks. By the 15th century, it had a castle, built by the Aragonese, which still dominates the town. Your guided walking tour of Pizzo's historic center offers stunning views over the gulf, especially from the vantage of the central Piazza della República.
It is here, in one of the many gelaterias, where you will stop to sample the pride of Pizzo—a rich hazelnut and chocolate gelato invented by a local vendor to capture the essence of a decadent truffle. This dessert is so closely identified with the town that it is known throughout Italy as tartufo di Pizzo. Enjoy some time at leisure before returning to your ship in Reggio.
· This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven ground with several steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking 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.
Ancient Paestum
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. The town these people founded, which they named Poseidonia, in honor of the Greek god of the sea, was renamed Paestum in the 4th-century B.C. and became one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia.
Situated along trade routes and surrounded by fertile land, the city grew quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving about two hours of standing and walking on uneven and rough terrain. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. As always, sturdy shoes and protection from the sun 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.
Campania Mozzarella & Ancient Paestum
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. It is certainly why this corner of Campania has become famous for the production of mozzarella cheese. Your excursion begins with a short drive to an antique mozzarella dairy that prides itself on using only milk produced by buffalos on the farm. See traditional Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella in the making, and sample the product along with focaccia and tomatoes.
The fertile land in this region is also part of the reason that ancient Greeks settled and founded Paestum, one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia, growing quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving about two hours of standing and walking on uneven and rough terrain. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. As always, sturdy shoes and protection from the sun 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.
Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Winery
Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, Pompeii was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. and buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
After the visit to Pompeii, travel to Mt. Vesuvius to tour one of its many wineries. The characteristics of the volcanic soil and a unique microclimate make the slopes of Vesuvius one of Italy's most interesting wine producing regions. You will be guided through the production area and the cellars by a member of the staff who will explain their processs, and then you will sit down to a lunch of local fare, paired with a selection of wines, including Lacryma Christi White, Red and Rose, Aglianico, and Falanghina, as well as an Apricot grappa.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun (there is no shade at Pompeii).
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.
Pompeii & Herculaneum
Spend the day exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Roman towns that were destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, both towns were buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of the public spaces, temples and villas of these towns.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, travel to nearby Herculaneum, a much smaller site than Pompeii, but where buildings and paintings are even better preserved. The mosaics at Casa del Nettuno de Anfitrite, for example, exhibit intense, vibrant colors. And at the two-story House of the Deer, paintings and furnishings reveal wealth and an opulent lifestyle that would rival the villas of Roman senators. Private baths and fountains are virtually untouched by decay.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun (there is no shade at Pompeii).
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.
Pizza & Pompeii
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive southward along the coast to Sorrento, where you visit one of the agriturismo farmhouses that populate this region of Campania. See an olive press at work turning the fruit into EVOO; watch as Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella is made; and then attend a pizza making class, followed by a lunch of bruschetta, olives, wine, and the pizza you have made, and finished with a taste of the limoncello liqueur for which Sorrento is famous.
On the return to Naples, stop in Pompeii, to explore its fabled archaeological site, the result a catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., which buried the city under a dense layer of ash and pumice, at the same time preserving buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun (there is no shade at Pompeii).
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 Street Food of Naples
This walking tour along Spaccanapoli—the long and straight main street that runs through Naples's historic city center—includes Piazza del Gesù, the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site; Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and the 13th-century church of the same name; and San Gregorio Armeno, famous for the beautifully crafted nativity scenes produced by the artisans whose shops line the street.
But the real purpose of strolling through these areas it to taste some of the marvelous street foods for which Naples is known. Moving from piazza to piazza, you will sample Neapolitan cuoppo, paper cones filled with a variety of fried foods (fish, mozzarella, zucchini, eggplant, potato, etc.) accompanied by a beer or soft drink; Pizza a portafoglio (wallet pizza) a small pie, folded over on itself and wrapped in paper so that it can eaten while standing or walking; and Sfogliatella, the iconic Neapolitan pastry shell of many layers of thin, flaky dough filled with a mixture of ricotta, semolina, and lemon zest.
After this culinary indulgence, enjoy a bit of time at leisure for independent exploration and shopping before returning to the pier and your ship.
· This is a moderate excursion, involving about three hours of walking over uneven cobblestone paths, with few opportunities to sit. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. We recommend comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection
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 Amalfi Coast
Your full day excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Amalfi Coast begins with a scenic drive south from the port, along the eastern shore of the Gulf of Naples, and across the Sorrentine Peninsula to reach the breathtakingly beautiful road that runs along the southern coast of the peninsula from Sorrento to Amalfi—the Amalfi Drive. Enjoy jaw-dropping views as your driver navigates the narrow, winding route that clings to sheer cliffs plunging into the sea below. Stop briefly at a site with panoramic views overlooking the village of Positano, whose pastel-colored houses and boutiques has attracted poets and artists for centuries, and then continue to the town of Amalfi itself.
In Amalfi, your guide will lead you through this charming medieval town to the main square, dominated by an imposing 12th-century cathedral, the Duomo di Amalfi. Time for independent exploration of the cobbled streets, rustic buildings, and flowering gardens in the area around the central piazza is followed by a short cruise aboard a local motor-launch—providing an opportunity to appreciate the rugged coastline from a different perspective. Disembark in the town of Maiori, just up the coast from Amalfi, where you will be served a leisurely 4-course meal of Campanian specialties in a restaurant with views over the sea.
Rejoin your coach and driver to continue along the Amalfi Drive to Vietri Sul Mare, where you join the highway for the return trip to Naples and your ship.
· This is a relatively easy excursion. There are uneven and cobblestone surfaces as well as many steps, but the amount of walking is largely at your discretion. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun 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.
Roman Highlights
Set out on a comprehensive exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks, from the ancient grandeur of the Colosseum to the charming beauty of its squares and fountains.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome, journey back to the days of the Gladiators with a visit to the incredible and imposing Colosseum, also known as Flavian Amphitheater. Learn about its history, architecture, and the events that took place within its walls. Enter this elliptical amphitheater, still the largest in the world, and see hundreds of rows of marble seats, at one point accommodating up to 55,000 spectators for fierce Gladiatorial games. Discover the long neglected subterranean passageways and holding chambers used by the competitors.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then drive to the city center to start your walking tour of the Eternal City. Stroll through Piazza di Spagna and admire the Spanish Steps, then proceed to Trevi Fountain where you’ll get the opportunity to toss a coin and ensure your return to the Eternal City. Proceed to the Pantheon (outside only) and marvel at its impressive dome. Conclude your walking tour at Piazza Navona, known for its exquisite fountains and Baroque architecture. Reboard your coach and return to Civitavecchia, reflecting on the day's experiences and sights.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as 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.
Rome’s Street Food
Enjoy a delightful blend of culinary exploration and leisure time in the Eternal City.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Begin your three-hour culinary tour in the historic city center. Explore the narrow streets of Rome's historic district, starting at Via del Portico d'Ottavia in the Jewish Quarter. Sample delicacies such as fried codfish and Pizza Bianca with mortadella, accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Continue your culinary adventure at Campo de Fiori, a bustling food market known for its seasonal delicacies. Sample more local specialties and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
After your food tour, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. Then, meet your guide in the late afternoon and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun. Please consider dietary restrictions and/or food allergies when selecting this tour.
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.
Pasta Making at a Local Farmhouse
Enjoy the unique and immersive experience of hands-on pasta-making and authentic Italian cuisine amidst the serene landscapes of the Italian countryside.
Depart the pier in Civitavecchia and embark on a 30-minute scenic drive through the Etruscan countryside. Learn about the history and culture of the mighty civilization that once inhabited this region as you drive through vineyards and olive groves on your way to a local farmhouse in Tarquinia. Arrive at the farmhouse to a warm welcome from the owners. Begin your culinary adventure by choosing your ingredients and learning how to prepare and cook an authentic Italian lunch. Enjoy a hands-on demonstration and perfect your pasta-making technique under the guidance of your host, culminating in the creation of your own homemade pasta dish. Sit down to a delightful meal featuring your culinary creations, accompanied by flavorful Italian wine. Relax and soak in the tranquil ambiance of the countryside before returning to Civitavecchia.
· This is an easy to moderate excursion, requiring very little walking, although there are some uneven surfaces. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended. Please consider dietary restrictions and/or food allergies when selecting this tour.
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.
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, & St. Peter’s Square
Set out on an immersive exploration of Vatican City's cultural treasures, followed by leisure time in Rome for shopping and personal exploration.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Explore the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of artworks spanning centuries. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists as you journey through the museum's galleries. Visit the Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic "Last Judgment."
Continue your tour by walking to St. Peter's Square, where you'll admire the grand colonnade, symbolizing the far-reaching embrace of the Catholic Church. See St. Peter's Basilica from the outside and hear about its history and Italian High Renaissance architecture from your guide. Then, board your coach and transfer to a local restaurant for lunch.
After lunch, continue to Piazza del Popolo (The People’s Square). Enjoy some free time for shopping and self-exploration in the city center. Meet your guide and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
· This is a moderate excursion, requiring about three miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun. A strict dress code is enforced in the Vatican Museum (Sistine Chapel). Shorts and tank tops are not permitted, and shoulders must be covered. Guests may be required to check large bags, backpacks, video cameras and/or personal water bottles at designated check points. Flash photos are not permitted in the Vatican Museums. Video and photography are not permitted at any time in the Sistine Chapel.
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.
Renaissance Florence
Florence is universally acknowledged as the cradle of the Italian Renaissance and is a virtual living museum of art and architecture—a piazza, or building, or sculpture, designed by Brunelleschi, or Michelangelo, or Alberti seemingly around every corner. This full day excursion offers an opportunity to see many of the most important of them.
Arriving in Florence after a drive through the Tuscan countryside, meet your expert guide at the Galleria dell ’Accademia, which houses Michelangelo's David. Commissioned in 1501 by the Opera Del Duomo and originally placed in the public square in front of the Palazzo della Signoria, Michelangelo's masterpiece was moved indoors in 1873 to protect it from the weather. The statue has been revered throughout the ages as one of the Renaissance's greatest achievements.
In the Piazza del Duomo, you will find Brunelleschi's Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the 4th largest church in Europe, as well as the octagonal Baptistery of St. John and Giotto's Bell Tower, designed in 1334. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, famous for its outdoor sculpture gallery and for the magnificent Palazzo Vecchio, which still serves as Florence’s town hall.
The last stop on your guided tour will be the Basilica of Santa Croce, built by Arnolfo di Cambio in 1294 for the Franciscan order. Santa Croce is something of a Pantheon for the illustrious citizens of Florence, housing the graves of Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Galileo Galilei, and Rossini, among many others.
After lunch at one of Florence's many fine restaurants, enjoy some time at leisure to browse on your own before returning to Livorno and your ship.
· There is a great deal of walking during this excursion—as much as 3.5 miles—most of it on cobblestones. Guests should be in good physical condition, wear sturdy shoes, and bring 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.
Lucca & Pisa
Lucca is unusual, perhaps unique, among walled cities in that the ramparts that enclose it are one of its defining characteristics and an enduring resource for communal activity. Arriving after an hour's drive through scenic Tuscan countryside, you will be struck, first, by the sheer size of the 16th- and 17th-century walls that completely surround the historic center of the city. They have a circumference of 3 miles, stand 40 feet high, and are topped with a tree-lined footpath that is in constant use for picnics, playgrounds, and evening strolls.
Once inside the walls, your expert guide will lead you on a walking tour, beginning with the Basilica of San Frediano, said to have been founded by a bishop of that name in the 6th century. It is famous for the large mosaic on its facade depicting Christ the Redeemer ascending to heaven. Just across from the church is Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, the site of a Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century AD. The remains of the Roman structure are now incorporated in the buildings that border the piazza, giving it a distinctive elliptical shape.
Your path through the labyrinthine streets of the medieval city passes the Romanesque Cathedral of San Martino, believed to have been decorated in part by Nicola Pisano, before culminating in the Piazza San Michele, the historic center of the city. Enjoy some time at leisure before sitting down to lunch at a local restaurant.
It is a 30-minute drive from Lucca to Pisa, where your guide will accompany you to the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) and allow you to explore this area of wonderful art and architecture on your own, perhaps beginning with the world-famous Leaning Tower. Visit the Duomo, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, the Romanesque Baptistery, and the Monumental Cemetery, at your own pace and following your own interests. After about an hour and a half of this self-guided tour, meet up with your guide and return to Livorno.
· This is an excursion for guests who are capable of and enjoy walking: in Lucca the walking totals approximately 2.5 miles, and in Pisa it can be as much as 2 additional miles. Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must, 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.
Volterra and its Etruscan Museum
From Livorno, a drive of about an hour through the Tuscan countryside brings you to the city of Volterra, whose original Etruscan walls are still visible today. On arrival, you will be joined by your expert local guide for a walking tour of the city center.
Reflecting its rich history, Volterra's old town is a mix of Roman and medieval buildings. Begin your tour with the 13th-century Palazzo dei Priori, Tuscany's first town hall. Its simple facade and fortress-like crenellations served as a model for other similar structures throughout the region, including Florence's Palazzo Vecchio. Volterra's town leaders still meet here in the palace's Sala del Consiglio.
Moving from the political center of the city to the religious, visit Volterra's Duomo and Baptistery, both of which are invaluable examples of Romanesque art and architecture. A highlight of the Duomo (officially, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta) is the group of five brightly painted wooden sculptures from the 13th century that portray the Deposition of Christ from the Cross. The 16th-century pulpit in the middle of the nave is adorned with fine 14th-century sculpted panels, attributed the Pisano family, while the Baptistery features both a small marble baptismal font carved by Andrea Sansovino in 1502 and a much larger one from the 18th-century.
The Etruscan Museum, the last stop on your guided tour, is one of the earliest public museums in Europe, founded by Mario Guarnacci, an avid collector of antiquities, when he donated his collection to “the citizens of the city of Volterra” in 1761.
After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy ample time at leisure to explore Volterra on your own and perhaps to shop for some alabaster, for which Volterra has been famous since Etruscan times.
· This is a lengthy excursion, involving a total of approximately 3.5 miles of walking over sometime steep terrain and often over cobblestones. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy, comfortable shores are a must -- 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.