Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
From the city of Gods to the Eternal city
Athens - Civitavecchia (Rome)
Dates:
22/04/2025
to
03/05/2025
days
nights on board
As the cradle of ancient Greek, Roman and Phoenician civilisations, a link between peoples and a cultural crossroads, the Mediterranean embodies the fascinating encounter between East and West, where cultures have blended and intermingled for millennia. Le Bougainville invites you on a new 12-day voyage between the city of the gods and the Eternal City to discover the riches of the Mediterranean, with its ancient remains, legendary tales and magnificent coastline.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, you can go and admire the marvels of the ancient Greek city of Taormina from Catania, explore the historic centre of Chania and visit Phaestos Palace from Heraklion. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From Athens, Le Bougainville sails to the southern part of the Aegean Sea and the splendid ancient island of Crete. In its capital, Heraklion, built on the side of a hill overlooking the harbour, you can enjoy looking at the former Venetian ramparts, providing a unique view of the city. Then you will be enchanted by Chania, an ancient city lying between mountains, endless olive groves, secret coves and marvellous beaches.
Further west, you reach Valletta, capital of the island of Malta. Stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta, the town is overflowing with architectural splendours and artistic treasures that you will glimpse as soon as you arrive at the port, which is one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Then you head for Sicily and your next stop is Porto Empedocle, gateway to the fabled Greek temples of Agrigento, among the most captivating ruins in the entire Mediterranean. Then, on Etna’s slopes, you spend a magical moment in Catania, destroyed seven times by the volcano's eruptions. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city will charm you with its incomparable cultural wealth.
Lastly, Le Bougainville sails by Reggio di Calabria before heading for the Tyrrhenian coast. After a timeless moment in Salerno, you sail further north to Gaeta. Clinging to the cliffs facing the Tyrrhenian Sea, the ancient city with its narrow streets redolent of a fascinating past will captivate you with its many architectural treasures, like the cathedral, an elegant Romanesque and Moorish building with ceramic decoration.
You continue to sail along the Italian coast to Civitavecchia, the final stop on your trip to these lands brimming with history.
Ref : EG220425
Your itinerary
A new cruise exploring the history of the great Greek and Roman civilisations and the Mediterranean's ancient remains. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Acropolis in Athens (embarkation port), the historic...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE LYRIAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
LE CHAMPLAIN
LE SOLÉAL
01/11/2024 to the 16/11/2024
*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.
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
Highlights
- A new cruise exploring the history of the great Greek and Roman civilisations and the Mediterranean's ancient remains.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Acropolis in Athens (embarkation port), the historic centre of Valletta, Catania and Mount Etna, Rome from Civitavecchia (disembarkation port).
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- New stopover in the ancient city of Chania in Greece.
- The Tyrrhenian coast with its ancient remains and wild, unspoiled landscapes.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
22 April 2025 - Athens
Embarkation 22/04/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 22/04/2025 at 20:00
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
23 April 2025 - Heraklion, Crete
Arrival 23/04/2025 midday
Departure 23/04/2025 early evening
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is the island’s most populous city. The hustle and bustle of this seaport is an integral part of its charm. It is built on a hillside overlooking the port and is encircled by impressive Venetian walls. From the top of these, you will be able to enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the city. The old town is teeming with small shops, squares, cafés and vibrant architectural evidence of the city’s long history. The Palace of Knossos illustrates the wealth and power of its legendary sovereign, King Minos. The archaeological museum houses one of the largest collections of Minoan artefacts and is worth a visit.
24 April 2025 - Chania, Crete
Arrival 24/04/2025 early morning
Departure 24/04/2025 late afternoon
Welcome to Chania, the second largest city and former capital of Crete, with a rich historical past. Here, every civilisation (Venetian, Ottoman and Byzantine) has left its mark, as witness its mosque, arsenal, lighthouse, fortress, docks and more. You will be charmed by the colourful houses lining the narrow streets, and the lively port of Chania. In a picturesque and authentic atmosphere, you can wander through a maze of narrow streets, covered markets and well-preserved churches, and immerse yourself in the past of Crete, Greece's largest island and one of the cradles of Greek mythology.
25 April 2025 - At sea
Arrival 25/04/2025
Departure 25/04/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
26 April 2025 27 April 2025 - Valletta
Arrival 26/04/2025 early morning
Departure 27/04/2025 evening
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 April 2025 - Porto Empedocle, Sicily
Arrival 28/04/2025 early morning
Departure 28/04/2025 late afternoon
Huddled on the south-western coast of Sicily, Porto Empedocles bears the name of the philosopher Empedocles, who lived in the region in the 5th century BC. An age-old city offered up to sun and sea, this is your doorway to the exceptional archaeological site of Temple Valley, a high place of Greek civilisation listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can admire the remains of many temples dedicated to Zeus, his wife Hera and Hephaestus. Make sure you take in the magnificent Italian countryside, with its olive orchards that cover the hillsides.
29 April 2025 - Catania, Sicily
Arrival 29/04/2025 early morning
Departure 29/04/2025 late evening
Sicily’s second city Catania is dominated by the majestic silhouette of Mount Etna. Nourishing and devastating at the same time, this giant crowned with smoke rings brought about the destruction of the city at the end of the 17th century. Catania was then rebuilt in the late Baroque style, and the many monuments of this epoch have earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The baroque churches of the harmonious Via dei Crociferi perfectly illustrate the riches of this architectural heritage. During your stop, be sure to visit Saint Agatha Cathedral with its apses made of lava stones, and its square decorated with a fountain of the Elephant, the animal which allegedly has the power to calm the fury of Mount Etna …
30 April 2025 - Reggio di Calabria
Arrival 30/04/2025 early morning
Departure 30/04/2025 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. A visit to the National Archaeological Museum is a must. It is one of the most important in Italy and among its collections are the famous Riace Bronzes, the stunning Greek statues dating from the 5th century BC that were found off the coast in 1972.
1 May 2025 - Salerno
Arrival 01/05/2025 early morning
Departure 01/05/2025 late afternoon
Generating a veritable explosion of intense emotions, the province of Salerno fascinates and enchants travellers. Its fascinating history will lead you to the extraordinary archaeological site of Pompeii, whose sprawling ruins provide a grandiose and moving vision of what a Roman city looked like in Imperial times. The city which was frozen in time under the ashes from the eruption of Mont Vesuvius offers you its peerless historical and cultural wealth, as well as the unique beauty of its location, which has earned it classification as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2 May 2025 - Gaeta
Arrival 02/05/2025 early morning
Departure 02/05/2025 late afternoon
Gaeta takes its name from the legend of the nanny of Aeneas. This illustrious relationship can be seen in the nobility of this old town, built on a peninsula, at the end of a headland. In Roman times, Gaeta was already a renowned seaside destination; it fell under Byzantine domination then became an autonomous duchy and an independent republic. The fortifications that surround this ancient fort remind us of this rich history, as does the cathedral bell tower, an elegant building of both Roman and Moor influence, decorated with ceramic in the style of bell-towers of Amalfi.
3 May 2025 - Civitavecchia (Rome)
Arrival 03/05/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 03/05/2025 at 07:00
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.
Phaestos Palace
From the pier, board your coach and drive across Crete and towards the Libyan Sea to Phaestos.
One of the most important centres of the Minoan civilization, Phaestos was the wealthiest and most powerful city in Southern Crete. It was inhabited from the Neolithic Age until the development of the Minoan palaces in the 15th century BC. Upon arrival, proceed to a visit of the Phaestos Palace, also known as the ‘Phaistos Palace’, and commence your guided walking tour.
The Phaestos Palace’s superb architectural design and near-perfect construction is one of the finest and most typical of all Minoan palaces. The ruins of the Old and New Palace are both preserved; the Old Palace is protected under a shed, with some remains dating back to Neolithic times. The New Palace consists of a central peristyle court flanked by storerooms and shrines on the west side, the royal quarters on the north and the workshops on the east. The ‘theatral area’ with the ‘processional ways’ is situated west of the storerooms, and the granaries of the Old Palace are located in the lower strata. The West Propylon, the palace’s monumental entrance, is the most impressive known structure of its kind. The artefacts from the palace are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Following your guided tour, depart the archaeological site of Phaestos for the drive back to the pier.
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This excursion involves approximately 2.4 km (1 ½ miles) of walking on uneven ground and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Minoan Palace & archaeological museum
Crete’s fertile soil and towering peaks witnessed the development of one of the earliest recorded civilizations on earth: the Minoan.
Knossos is the most important of the Minoan palaces and the most famous Cretan site since its discovery in 1878. Occupied for 9,000 years before present and associated with the legend of the palace of King Minos, the site was the capital of Crete during the Minoan period. It was the court of the legendary King Minos, whose wife Pasiphae gave birth to the Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. The excavations on the site were begun in 1893 by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans and his team and lasted 35 years.
From the pier, you will board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Knossos.
During this tour, you will discover the Great Palace through the West Court, where one can easily understand why the legend of the labyrinth grew up here. It takes about one hour and a half to walk around the site and explore all the parts of the Palace. See the Royal Quarters’ Throne room with its antechamber and main throne, as well as the Queen’s Quarters, whose wall above the entrance door is decorated with a copy of the famous dolphin frescos. Your guide will also tell about the Minotaur legend.
You will continue your journey with a visit of the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. The museum houses archaeological finds from all over Crete, covering over 5,500 years of the island's history. With its twenty halls, the museum presents the finds from the Minoan era, including the frescoes from the Royal Palace of Knossos.
After your visit of the museum, you will board your coach and join your ship after a 15-minute drive.
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This excursion involves 1,5 km (1 mile) of walking with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Arkadi Monastery and the old town of Rethymno
On this coach excursion, you will spend an afternoon discovering authentic Crete, with visits to the Arkadi Monastery and the old village of Rethymno.
After a 90-minute drive from Chania, you will discover the Arkadi Monastery, a site brimming with history and with a unique atmosphere. Nestling on top of a rocky plateau, this Eastern Orthodox monastery consists of a Renaissance-style church constructed in the 16th century, bearing witness to the island's Venetian history, surrounded by a fortress that was built more recently. The calm and serenity that reign inside the cloisters, as well as the religious frescoes and icons on display to visitors, are ideal for meditation and contemplation. The monastery played an important role in Cretan history in the face of Ottoman domination during the revolt of 1866 and has become a national emblem of resistance.
You will continue your afternoon with a visit around the old town of Rethymno, with its captivating charm. The Venetians and the Ottomans left their mark on it, offering visitors architectural jewels. So, losing yourself among the small cobbled streets or in the port, you will discover the Neradje Mosque, with its emblematic minaret, the Venetian fortress standing proudly above the town, and the Egyptian lighthouse as well as various magnificent buildings with colourful façades and charming little shaded squares.
Finally, in a former bakery, you will observe the secrets to making pastries, such as the emblematic many-layered filo pastry that is used in most Greek desserts, such as kataifis and baclavas.
- The level of difficulty of this excursion is low. The ground is flat, with uneven cobblestone streets and some stairs.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Walking exploration of Chania Town
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Valley of the Temples and Casa Barbadoro
From the pier, embark your coach for the 30-minute drive to the Valley of the Temples.
The archaeological area known as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
From the entrance of the archaeological site, you will start your 1-hour and a half walking tour.
You will walk through the area surrounded by countryside covered by beautiful almond and olive trees, the guide will lead you among the most important monuments: Temple of Juno, Temple of Concord, Temple of Hercules and the famous Temple of Zeus (the largest temple of Greek antiquity).
At the end of the walk, enjoy a refreshment at Casa Barbadoro, inside the park. Casa Barbadoro will present you their project to enhance and promote the artistic, cultural, natural and agricultural heritage of the 1300 hectares of the Archeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples.
You will then visit the Museum of Agrigento, one of the most important archaeological museum in Sicily, containing impressive collections of Greek vases, coins, etc.
After the visit, you will board your coach and drive to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 1.8 mile (3 km) of walking over paved road and uneven paths with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Taormina & the ancient theatre
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a one-hour drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
- As this excursion involves a walk of around 1.5 miles (2 km) on rough terrain with several stairways. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious monuments (knees and shoulders covered).
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Bronzi di Riace & Scilla
Reggio Calabria is located on the tip of the Italian Peninsula and is separated from the island of Sicily by the Strait of Messina. It is situated on the slopes of the Aspromonte, a long, craggy mountain range that runs up through the centre of the region.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to one of the most important archaeological museums, the prestigious National Archaeological Museum of Magna Græcia, dedicated to Ancient Greece. You will have the possibility to visit the famous Bronzes of Riace, rare example of Greek bronze sculpture, which became one of the symbols of the city. The two statues – discovered on August 1972 near Riace – are considered among the most important sculptural masterpieces of Greek art.
Then, you will proceed to Scilla. Scilla is a village of ancient origins known since the days of Homer, who described it in his Odyssey as the home of Scylla, a nymph turned into a sea monster by the sorceress Circe.
The Ruffo Castle, completely turned towards the Strait of Messina, the uncontaminated beaches, the sea and the charming neighbourhood of Chianalea, the ancient fishing village, make Scilla one of the most sought-after tourist destinations of Calabria. Chianalea has earned the nickname of “little Venice” for houses built directly on the rocks, separated from each other by small streets that overlook the sea, particularity that also allowed the village to be counted among the most beautiful villages of Italy. Along the streets of the village you can see ancient fountains, churches and palaces.
After enjoying a visit of the castle and the village, you will taste a delicious refreshment of local products in a beautiful location with a view before returning to the pier, a 30-minute drive.
- This tour involves approximately 2 km (1.5 mile) of walking over uneven ground with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Paestum
From the pier, embark your coach for a one-hour drive to Paestum, the city dedicated to Poseidon the god of the sea, and founded by the Greeks around 600 BC. Previously called Poseidonia, it was later occupied by the Lucanians, an italic population, from 400 BC until 273 BC, when it became a Roman colony under the name of Paestum.
Its three temples are the only example of Greek architecture and arts already present in Italy, and are better preserved than the Parthenon in Athens. The city was discovered under the marsh and the brushwood thanks to the King of Naples Carlo di Borbone III during the 17th century.
The Romans made of the ancient Poseidonia their colony, and subsequently it was embellished by magnificent buildings including the baths, the portico of the forum and the amphitheatre.
Walking through this ancient moment of history and looking at these imposing and gorgeous structures will leave an impression in people's mind of the best example of what the Greek culture was in the past.
Finally, you will board your coach and start your return drive to the ship.
- This tour involves one hour and a half of walking over uneven ground, we recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Pompeii
From the pier, embark your coach for a forty-five-minute drive to Pompeii.
Pompeii is considered the world's finest example of an ancient Roman town. The eruption of Vesuvius on August 24, 79 AD not only preserved structures, but also evidence of the ancient way of life, such as a fully equipped tavern with the last customer's money still on the counter.
Ancient Pompeii was a prosperous provincial centre with an estimated population of 20,000. Much of the town had been destroyed by an earthquake in 63 AD, and the rebuilding was still in process when the volcano erupted 16 years later. The whole town was buried beneath more than 20 feet (6 m) of ash and pumice stone. Residents were killed by lethal sulphur fumes or struck down by lava and pumice stone that rained down upon the city, although some of the people escaped. Abandoned until the 18th century, Pompeii was frozen in time until excavations revealed this amazing archaeological site. Plaster was poured into empty spaces in the lava to make body casts of some of the victims, such as a young man stretched out to protect his mother and young daughter, and the famous twisted body of a dog still tied to its chain.
The walking tour of Pompeii will be led by a guide who will help you relive the historical events and experience a typical day in antiquity. Admire the luxurious mansions and fabulous art of wealthy patricians who came to Pompeii to escape the turmoil in Rome. Their houses were designed around an inner garden with few windows on the exteriors, so residents could forget the outside world and get sunlight from their own courtyards. Visit some of the more modest homes and explore ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets and huge forum.
Finally, you will board your coach and start your return drive to the ship.
- This tour involves 2 hours of walking over uneven ground, we recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Split Mountain of Gaeta and historical centre
From the pier, embark your coach and drive through the hearth of Gaeta to discover the famous so called “Split Mountain”, which still receives continuous pilgrimages. Visit the Sanctuary of the Split Mountain. The complex is composed of the church of the Santissima Trinità, the Benedictine monastery dating from 1071 and the "Grotta del turco", an open corridor. After going down 35 stair steps, you will join the deep and suggestive central split: according to the tradition, the mountain split at the death of Christ.
The geological phenomenon and the constant religious tradition made the Split Mountain internationally famous: it has been visited by Saints, Popes and Kings for centuries.
Next, discover the historical centre of Gaeta. You will visit the Gothic church of the Santissima Annunziata, which was renewed with baroque decorations in 1621.
Walking up toward the promontory, you will discover the medieval area of the town, a little centre of art that represented the political and religious heart of the Ducal period (9th to 12th century). The alleys, buildings, narrow streets, towers, steps, portals and little bell towers from the 12th to the 13th and following centuries, make a very interesting ensemble. Going up the Via Pius IX you will arrive at the castle that dominates the whole medieval centre.
Continuing through the Via Angioina, you will arrive to the neo-gothic church of San Francesco, built during the reign of Ferdinando II in the memory of Pius IX who was then exiled in Gaeta. The church was transformed into barracks and a military hospital during the French domination.
After your guided tour, follow your guide for the 15-minute walk back to the pier.
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This excursion involves 3-hour of walking on uneven terrains and steep slopes with 60 steps to negotiate. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress must be worn when visiting religious buildings (shoulders and knees should be covered). The inside visit of the religious sites cannot be guaranteed in case of preparation for special event or church services.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Tiberio Villa and Sperlonga
Sperlonga's main cultural attraction is the museum erected on the grounds of the former villa of Tiberius, showing the groups of sculpture celebrating the deeds of Odysseus, found in a grotto. According to Tacitus and Suetonius, the roof of the grotto collapsed while Tiberius was dining, and Sejanus rushed to save Tiberius, for which Tiberius in gratitude promoted him, launching his rise to power. Tiberius moved to Capri after 26 AD.
The villa included a grotto where some famous sculptures, now housed in the museum, have been found: these portrayed the assault of Scylla to Odysseus' ship, the blinding of Polyphemus, the theft of the Palladium and Odysseus lifting Achilles's corpse. The works have been attributed to Rhodian sculptors which are thought to be the same authors of the group of "Laocoön and His Sons". Yet whether the very same artists are responsible is questionable.
After your visit to the National Archaeological Museum and the adjacent grounds of the former house of Tiberius, rejoin your coach for Sperlonga city centre.
Sperlonga is a small sea village characterised by white houses placed on a promontory above the sea, and was rightly awarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. On arrival, follow your guide for a walking tour through the cobblestoned streets of the town. You will visit the historical centre, the Church of St. Mary of Speloncae and you will admire the Truglia Tower.
Before returning to your ship you will enjoy some free time followed by a small snack.
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This excursion involves about two hours of walking on uneven ground with about ten stairs to climb. We recommend you to bring comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended for visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The interior visit of religious monuments may be canceled in the event of preparation for a particular event or religious service. The snack is included in your excursion.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
22/04/2025 - PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS
50 €
Find out more
03/05/2025 - DIRECT TRANSFER FROM THE PORT OF CIVITAVECCHIA TO ROME FIUMICINO AIRPORT
50 €
Find out morePANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Athens
Meet at Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos - Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach for a scenic tour of Athens en route to the port of Piraeus.
When you will reach Athens, you will make your first stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, a 19th-century reconstruction on Roman foundations, in which the first modern Olympic Games took place. This stadium is also known as the Kallimármaro which means “the beautiful marbled” because it is the only major stadium in the world built entirely of white marble. It was also restored to host some competitions during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
You will enjoy a photo stop at the bottom of the Acropolis Hill with its spectacular view of the Parthenon before being transferred to the port of Piraeus where you will embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer by air-conditioned coach.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Note:
- Optional photo stops depending on embarkation time and traffic conditions.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 50 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Athens
Meet at Athens Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5*, perfectly located at Syntagma Square in the heart of Athens.
Official check-in at 15 :00.
Afternoon at leisure.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Athens
After breakfast, your walking guided visit will be first focus on Anafiotika district.
This picturesque old quarter is located under the Acropolis. This very typical architecture looks like to the Cycladic islands, with narrow streets and white-washed houses with colorful shutters.
You will learn more about its history with your guide. And you will have the perfect opportunity to take the most beautiful photos, through the lens of a professional photograph at your disposal to give you tips and help you..
Later, you will walk until a local tavern in the Plaka district and you will enjoy a traditional Greek lunch followed by a short time at leisure in Plaka.
During the afternoon, you will visit the Acropolis Museum, which is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. The museum was built in order to house every artifact found on the rock and at its foot, covering a large period of time from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. Nearly 4,000 objects are exhibited over an area of 14,000 square metres.
After the Museum visit, time at leisure to strool around the Museum area (about 1 hour), or to visit on your own, the Acropolis site (this visit is not accessible to disabled people). Then short drive back to your hotel (about 15 minutes).
Evening and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Athens
Breakfast followed by hotel check-out procedures.
You will walk with your guide until Benaki Museum located in Kolonaki Square (about 10 minutes).
The Benaki Museum ranks among the great benefactions which have enriched the material assets of the Greek State. It is also the oldest museum in Greece. The Museum houses a set of collections comprising many distinct categories and totalling more than 30,000 items that illustrate the Greek world through a spectacular historical panorama: from Antiquity and the age of Roman domination to the medieval Byzantine period, from the fall of Constantinople (1453) and the centuries of Frankish and Ottoman occupation to the outbreak of the struggle for independence in 1821, and from the formation of the modern state of Greece (1830) to 1922, the year in which the Asia Minor disaster took place. Board your vehicle again for a short drive to your hotel.
Following your visit, board your vehicle for a short drive to the meeting point where your local chef will await for you.
Combine the best flavors of Athens has to offer, in a master class that involves putting together a menu, shopping for the ingredients in the vibrant central markets of Athens, and actually preparing it, all under the care of a professional chef and expert on Mediterranean cuisine.
After collecting everything, you will head to a venue with all the necessary equipment to turn the fresh ingredients into delicious delicacies. With the guidance of the chef, you will enjoy the best meal prepared by yourselves.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Athens to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery Collection is a boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of Athens, in the upscale Kolonaki neighbourhood, two minutes from Syntagma Square. Its contemporary interior houses works of art celebrating Greek culture. The fully-appointed Deluxe rooms offer a tranquil haven with an elegant atmosphere. From the rooftop terrace with swimming pool, the view of the Acropolis is uninterrupted and cloaked in magic at nightfall. Greek and Mediterranean specialities are served at MFlavours, the first of the hotel’s restaurants, while creative cuisine awaits guests at the second, Mappemonde.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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2-nights accommodation in Deluxe room at Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
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Welcome drink voucher of 20 € to enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop Mappemonde during open hours (non refundable)
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking escort on the day of arrival.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide during visits.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on days 1 & 2.
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Entry fees and guided visit of the Acropolis.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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On day 2, the photo tour of the Anafiotika district requires about 2 hours of walking on flat and uneven ground with uneven level.
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The visit of the Acropolis Museum (day 2), the Benaki Museum and the walk at Central Market (day 3) require moderate walking on flat or uneven ground (paved terrain and a few steps).
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The Acropolis visit site is not included to the program and is not recomanded for disabled people.You can visit it on your own during leisure time.
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The Benaki Museum is closed on Tuesday.
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The Central Market is closed on Sunday.
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The official check-in in room at 15:00.
Contact of your hotel:
Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery
4 Eleftheriou Venizelou Avenue and 2 Kriezotou street Syntagma Square,
Athens 105 64,
Greece
Telephone number: +30 21 4444 2000
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 1.920 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Phaestos Palace
From the pier, board your coach and drive across Crete and towards the Libyan Sea to Phaestos.
One of the most important centres of the Minoan civilization, Phaestos was the wealthiest and most powerful city in Southern Crete. It was inhabited from the Neolithic Age until the development of the Minoan palaces in the 15th century BC. Upon arrival, proceed to a visit of the Phaestos Palace, also known as the ‘Phaistos Palace’, and commence your guided walking tour.
The Phaestos Palace’s superb architectural design and near-perfect construction is one of the finest and most typical of all Minoan palaces. The ruins of the Old and New Palace are both preserved; the Old Palace is protected under a shed, with some remains dating back to Neolithic times. The New Palace consists of a central peristyle court flanked by storerooms and shrines on the west side, the royal quarters on the north and the workshops on the east. The ‘theatral area’ with the ‘processional ways’ is situated west of the storerooms, and the granaries of the Old Palace are located in the lower strata. The West Propylon, the palace’s monumental entrance, is the most impressive known structure of its kind. The artefacts from the palace are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Following your guided tour, depart the archaeological site of Phaestos for the drive back to the pier.
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This excursion involves approximately 2.4 km (1 ½ miles) of walking on uneven ground and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Minoan Palace & archaeological museum
Crete’s fertile soil and towering peaks witnessed the development of one of the earliest recorded civilizations on earth: the Minoan.
Knossos is the most important of the Minoan palaces and the most famous Cretan site since its discovery in 1878. Occupied for 9,000 years before present and associated with the legend of the palace of King Minos, the site was the capital of Crete during the Minoan period. It was the court of the legendary King Minos, whose wife Pasiphae gave birth to the Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. The excavations on the site were begun in 1893 by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans and his team and lasted 35 years.
From the pier, you will board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Knossos.
During this tour, you will discover the Great Palace through the West Court, where one can easily understand why the legend of the labyrinth grew up here. It takes about one hour and a half to walk around the site and explore all the parts of the Palace. See the Royal Quarters’ Throne room with its antechamber and main throne, as well as the Queen’s Quarters, whose wall above the entrance door is decorated with a copy of the famous dolphin frescos. Your guide will also tell about the Minotaur legend.
You will continue your journey with a visit of the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. The museum houses archaeological finds from all over Crete, covering over 5,500 years of the island's history. With its twenty halls, the museum presents the finds from the Minoan era, including the frescoes from the Royal Palace of Knossos.
After your visit of the museum, you will board your coach and join your ship after a 15-minute drive.
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This excursion involves 1,5 km (1 mile) of walking with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Arkadi Monastery and the old town of Rethymno
On this coach excursion, you will spend an afternoon discovering authentic Crete, with visits to the Arkadi Monastery and the old village of Rethymno.
After a 90-minute drive from Chania, you will discover the Arkadi Monastery, a site brimming with history and with a unique atmosphere. Nestling on top of a rocky plateau, this Eastern Orthodox monastery consists of a Renaissance-style church constructed in the 16th century, bearing witness to the island's Venetian history, surrounded by a fortress that was built more recently. The calm and serenity that reign inside the cloisters, as well as the religious frescoes and icons on display to visitors, are ideal for meditation and contemplation. The monastery played an important role in Cretan history in the face of Ottoman domination during the revolt of 1866 and has become a national emblem of resistance.
You will continue your afternoon with a visit around the old town of Rethymno, with its captivating charm. The Venetians and the Ottomans left their mark on it, offering visitors architectural jewels. So, losing yourself among the small cobbled streets or in the port, you will discover the Neradje Mosque, with its emblematic minaret, the Venetian fortress standing proudly above the town, and the Egyptian lighthouse as well as various magnificent buildings with colourful façades and charming little shaded squares.
Finally, in a former bakery, you will observe the secrets to making pastries, such as the emblematic many-layered filo pastry that is used in most Greek desserts, such as kataifis and baclavas.
- The level of difficulty of this excursion is low. The ground is flat, with uneven cobblestone streets and some stairs.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Walking exploration of Chania Town
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Valley of the Temples and Casa Barbadoro
From the pier, embark your coach for the 30-minute drive to the Valley of the Temples.
The archaeological area known as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
From the entrance of the archaeological site, you will start your 1-hour and a half walking tour.
You will walk through the area surrounded by countryside covered by beautiful almond and olive trees, the guide will lead you among the most important monuments: Temple of Juno, Temple of Concord, Temple of Hercules and the famous Temple of Zeus (the largest temple of Greek antiquity).
At the end of the walk, enjoy a refreshment at Casa Barbadoro, inside the park. Casa Barbadoro will present you their project to enhance and promote the artistic, cultural, natural and agricultural heritage of the 1300 hectares of the Archeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples.
You will then visit the Museum of Agrigento, one of the most important archaeological museum in Sicily, containing impressive collections of Greek vases, coins, etc.
After the visit, you will board your coach and drive to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 1.8 mile (3 km) of walking over paved road and uneven paths with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Taormina & the ancient theatre
From the pier, you will be transferred by coach to the ancient Greek town of Taormina, a one-hour drive.
Called Tauromenium in ancient times, Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro and offers superb views, splashed with the vibrant colours of bougainvillea and oleanders, of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background.
A maze of narrow streets, stairs and tiny squares, Taormina has attracted many civilisations over the centuries. It is home to theatres and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantine, and villas belonging to European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries.
You start your excursion with a visit on foot to the historic centre. You will cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile and Palazzo Corvaja.
You then arrive at Teatro Antico, a theatre built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans who created a gladiatorial arena. The theatre is the second largest in Sicily after the one in Syracuse. Due to its size and acoustic quality the theatre is still used to host festivals and concerts. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the concert while admiring a breath-taking panoramic view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna.
- As this excursion involves a walk of around 1.5 miles (2 km) on rough terrain with several stairways. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious monuments (knees and shoulders covered).
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Bronzi di Riace & Scilla
Reggio Calabria is located on the tip of the Italian Peninsula and is separated from the island of Sicily by the Strait of Messina. It is situated on the slopes of the Aspromonte, a long, craggy mountain range that runs up through the centre of the region.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to one of the most important archaeological museums, the prestigious National Archaeological Museum of Magna Græcia, dedicated to Ancient Greece. You will have the possibility to visit the famous Bronzes of Riace, rare example of Greek bronze sculpture, which became one of the symbols of the city. The two statues – discovered on August 1972 near Riace – are considered among the most important sculptural masterpieces of Greek art.
Then, you will proceed to Scilla. Scilla is a village of ancient origins known since the days of Homer, who described it in his Odyssey as the home of Scylla, a nymph turned into a sea monster by the sorceress Circe.
The Ruffo Castle, completely turned towards the Strait of Messina, the uncontaminated beaches, the sea and the charming neighbourhood of Chianalea, the ancient fishing village, make Scilla one of the most sought-after tourist destinations of Calabria. Chianalea has earned the nickname of “little Venice” for houses built directly on the rocks, separated from each other by small streets that overlook the sea, particularity that also allowed the village to be counted among the most beautiful villages of Italy. Along the streets of the village you can see ancient fountains, churches and palaces.
After enjoying a visit of the castle and the village, you will taste a delicious refreshment of local products in a beautiful location with a view before returning to the pier, a 30-minute drive.
- This tour involves approximately 2 km (1.5 mile) of walking over uneven ground with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Paestum
From the pier, embark your coach for a one-hour drive to Paestum, the city dedicated to Poseidon the god of the sea, and founded by the Greeks around 600 BC. Previously called Poseidonia, it was later occupied by the Lucanians, an italic population, from 400 BC until 273 BC, when it became a Roman colony under the name of Paestum.
Its three temples are the only example of Greek architecture and arts already present in Italy, and are better preserved than the Parthenon in Athens. The city was discovered under the marsh and the brushwood thanks to the King of Naples Carlo di Borbone III during the 17th century.
The Romans made of the ancient Poseidonia their colony, and subsequently it was embellished by magnificent buildings including the baths, the portico of the forum and the amphitheatre.
Walking through this ancient moment of history and looking at these imposing and gorgeous structures will leave an impression in people's mind of the best example of what the Greek culture was in the past.
Finally, you will board your coach and start your return drive to the ship.
- This tour involves one hour and a half of walking over uneven ground, we recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Pompeii
From the pier, embark your coach for a forty-five-minute drive to Pompeii.
Pompeii is considered the world's finest example of an ancient Roman town. The eruption of Vesuvius on August 24, 79 AD not only preserved structures, but also evidence of the ancient way of life, such as a fully equipped tavern with the last customer's money still on the counter.
Ancient Pompeii was a prosperous provincial centre with an estimated population of 20,000. Much of the town had been destroyed by an earthquake in 63 AD, and the rebuilding was still in process when the volcano erupted 16 years later. The whole town was buried beneath more than 20 feet (6 m) of ash and pumice stone. Residents were killed by lethal sulphur fumes or struck down by lava and pumice stone that rained down upon the city, although some of the people escaped. Abandoned until the 18th century, Pompeii was frozen in time until excavations revealed this amazing archaeological site. Plaster was poured into empty spaces in the lava to make body casts of some of the victims, such as a young man stretched out to protect his mother and young daughter, and the famous twisted body of a dog still tied to its chain.
The walking tour of Pompeii will be led by a guide who will help you relive the historical events and experience a typical day in antiquity. Admire the luxurious mansions and fabulous art of wealthy patricians who came to Pompeii to escape the turmoil in Rome. Their houses were designed around an inner garden with few windows on the exteriors, so residents could forget the outside world and get sunlight from their own courtyards. Visit some of the more modest homes and explore ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets and huge forum.
Finally, you will board your coach and start your return drive to the ship.
- This tour involves 2 hours of walking over uneven ground, we recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Split Mountain of Gaeta and historical centre
From the pier, embark your coach and drive through the hearth of Gaeta to discover the famous so called “Split Mountain”, which still receives continuous pilgrimages. Visit the Sanctuary of the Split Mountain. The complex is composed of the church of the Santissima Trinità, the Benedictine monastery dating from 1071 and the "Grotta del turco", an open corridor. After going down 35 stair steps, you will join the deep and suggestive central split: according to the tradition, the mountain split at the death of Christ.
The geological phenomenon and the constant religious tradition made the Split Mountain internationally famous: it has been visited by Saints, Popes and Kings for centuries.
Next, discover the historical centre of Gaeta. You will visit the Gothic church of the Santissima Annunziata, which was renewed with baroque decorations in 1621.
Walking up toward the promontory, you will discover the medieval area of the town, a little centre of art that represented the political and religious heart of the Ducal period (9th to 12th century). The alleys, buildings, narrow streets, towers, steps, portals and little bell towers from the 12th to the 13th and following centuries, make a very interesting ensemble. Going up the Via Pius IX you will arrive at the castle that dominates the whole medieval centre.
Continuing through the Via Angioina, you will arrive to the neo-gothic church of San Francesco, built during the reign of Ferdinando II in the memory of Pius IX who was then exiled in Gaeta. The church was transformed into barracks and a military hospital during the French domination.
After your guided tour, follow your guide for the 15-minute walk back to the pier.
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This excursion involves 3-hour of walking on uneven terrains and steep slopes with 60 steps to negotiate. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress must be worn when visiting religious buildings (shoulders and knees should be covered). The inside visit of the religious sites cannot be guaranteed in case of preparation for special event or church services.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Tiberio Villa and Sperlonga
Sperlonga's main cultural attraction is the museum erected on the grounds of the former villa of Tiberius, showing the groups of sculpture celebrating the deeds of Odysseus, found in a grotto. According to Tacitus and Suetonius, the roof of the grotto collapsed while Tiberius was dining, and Sejanus rushed to save Tiberius, for which Tiberius in gratitude promoted him, launching his rise to power. Tiberius moved to Capri after 26 AD.
The villa included a grotto where some famous sculptures, now housed in the museum, have been found: these portrayed the assault of Scylla to Odysseus' ship, the blinding of Polyphemus, the theft of the Palladium and Odysseus lifting Achilles's corpse. The works have been attributed to Rhodian sculptors which are thought to be the same authors of the group of "Laocoön and His Sons". Yet whether the very same artists are responsible is questionable.
After your visit to the National Archaeological Museum and the adjacent grounds of the former house of Tiberius, rejoin your coach for Sperlonga city centre.
Sperlonga is a small sea village characterised by white houses placed on a promontory above the sea, and was rightly awarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. On arrival, follow your guide for a walking tour through the cobblestoned streets of the town. You will visit the historical centre, the Church of St. Mary of Speloncae and you will admire the Truglia Tower.
Before returning to your ship you will enjoy some free time followed by a small snack.
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This excursion involves about two hours of walking on uneven ground with about ten stairs to climb. We recommend you to bring comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended for visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The interior visit of religious monuments may be canceled in the event of preparation for a particular event or religious service. The snack is included in your excursion.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.ROMAN HILIGHTS (2 NIGHTS)
This program is specially designed to orient you to the treasures of Rome and to introduce you to some of its most important monuments.
Day 1 – Civitavecchia - Rome
After breakfast aboard, join your guide for the 90-minute drive into Rome, where your exploration of the Eternal City begins with a panoramic tour of its major monuments—the Caracalla Baths, Tiberina Island, Circus Maximus, St. Angelo Castle, and Villa Borghese Park. Then, leaving the coach behind, follow your guide on a walking tour of some of the most famous piazzas and fountains in Rome, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Navona Square.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your tour of Rome's ancient ruins, as your guide explains their relation to twelve centuries of cultural, political, and religious history. Your final stop will be at the Colosseum, an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome, where you will enjoy VIP access to the floor of the arena where gladiators, Christians, and wild beasts once battled to the death before an audience of more than 50,000 spectators.
Rejoin your coach for the short ride to the historic Sina Bernini Bristol, your home for the next two nights. Dinner is independent and at your leisure.
Day 2 – Rome
Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a specially crafted tour of the Vatican. Begin your discovery of this center of Catholic Christianity in the Vatican City Gardens, open only to VIP visitors. The gardens contain a variety of fortifications and monuments, dating from as early as the 9th century and set among vibrant flower beds, topiary, green lawns, and forest. See the Vatican Radio Station and the Academy of Science, and enjoy a singular view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel from the rear.
Briefly visit the Vatican Museums before entering the world-famous Sistine Chapel, where you will see Michelangelo's fresco of The Creation of Adam. Continue to the interior of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, where Michelangelo's Pieta and the beautifully carved Bernini Pulpit are among the many works of art on display.
The rest of day is yours to explore the city on your own or to enjoy the amenities of the hotel. Lunch and dinner are independent and at your leisure.
Day 3 – Rome | Home
After breakfast at the hotel and check out, transfer to the airport for flights homeward.
Your hotel:
Located in heart of Rome, the historic Sina Bernini Bristol is one of the most renowned 5-star hotels in the Eternal City. Once the hotel of choice for Russian Tsars, Princes of Wales, the Rockefellers, and the Vanderbilts, the Bernini Bristol enjoys a privileged location between Piazza Barberini and Via Veneto, just a few minutes’ walk from the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. The bedrooms are well appointed in classic and contemporary style. Each room features an Italian marbled tile bathroom, satellite TV, a safe, minibar, and hairdryer. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views, as well as a spa and fitness center.
Your program includes:
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2 nights at the Sina Bernini Bristol (or similar).
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Transfer and luggage handling from the pier to the hotel on Day 1.
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Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3.
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Lunch on Day 1.
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Breakfast on Days 2 and 3.
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Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary.
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Local English-speaking guide.
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Gratuities for the drivers and local guides.
Your program does not include:
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Transfer from the hotel to the airport on any day other than the scheduled program departure day.
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Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program.
Please note:
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It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 30 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
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Late check-out is 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.
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The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
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This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
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Program is offered on a space available basis.
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Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
Sina Bernini Bristol
Piazza Barberini 23,
00187 Rome
Italy
Telephone: +39 855-516-1090
Total : 1.190 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.DIRECT TRANSFER FROM THE PORT OF CIVITAVECCHIA TO ROME FIUMICINO AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Civitavecchia/Rome
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port of Civitavecchia by our local English-speaking representative.
Then you will depart the pier by coach for Leonardo da Vinci International Airport of Rome, also called Rome Fiumicino Airport escorted by our English-speaking representative in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight (about 1.30 at drive).
Your programme includes:
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Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking escort.
Your programme does not include:
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Tips for the driver and local escort.
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Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents. In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 50 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.