Name: From Scottish Shores to Norwegian Fjords
Brand: PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Overview

This 9-night PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruise aboard Le Lapérouse sets sail from Valetta, bound for the shores of Mediterranean. The itinerary features stops at 3 destinations, including Valletta and Annaba (ex Bone), before arriving in Málaga. There's a pleasing rhythm to this cruise - days spent exploring ashore, and time on board to relax and recharge between ports. Available from £4,860 per person - a fantastic opportunity to explore Mediterranean aboard the Le Lapérouse.

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

When searching for a luxury yacht expedition cruise, there’s one name above all else that you need to know – Ponant Cruises. Founded in 1988 by former French Merchant Navy officers, Ponant combines succulent luxury with authentic adventures on all seven continents.

From classic Mediterranean itineraries and Caribbean sailings, to bucket-list expeditions around Greenland and Antarctica, Ponant cruises proudly counteract the banality of mainstream voyages with a unique take on the concept of small-ship cruising. It’s the absolute trip of a lifetime.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Valletta

Perched majestically on the limestone cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, Valletta beckons with its timeless charm and centuries-old history. Home to the Knights of St. John, its streets whisper tales of valiant knights and grand sieges. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with warm summers and mild winters, creating an inviting atmosphere year-round. Unlike typical tourist traps, Valletta offers an authentic glimpse into Malta's soul, where locals mingle with visitors in bustling markets and quaint cafes. As the smallest capital in the EU, Valletta boasts one of the highest concentrations of historic sites, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, adorned with Caravaggio's masterpieces.

Day 2

Siracuse, Sicily

Welcome to Siracusa, where ancient myths and legends intertwine with the present. Set along the sparkling shores of the Ionian Sea, Siracusa basks in a Mediterranean climate, inviting cruisegoers to immerse themselves in its timeless charm. Away from the typical tourist traps, this coastal gem offers an authentic experience that showcases the true essence of Italy. Cruise lines often dock here to provide travelers with a glimpse into the country's soul, from exploring the ancient Greek ruins of Neapolis to strolling through the enchanting streets of Ortygia. As a testament to its rich history, Siracusa boasts one of the largest Greek theaters in the world, where performances still captivate audiences to this day.

Day 3

Porto Empedocle

Day 4

Tunis

Day 5

Annaba (ex Bone)

Day 6

Alger (Algiers)

Day 7

Cartagena

Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Cartagena exudes an air of ancient grandeur, tracing its roots back to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. This historic port city boasts a climate blessed with year-round sunshine, perfect for leisurely strolls along its palm-lined promenades. Beyond its famed Roman ruins and imposing fortifications, Cartagena offers a glimpse into authentic Spanish life, with bustling markets brimming with local flavors and artisans' wares. Cruise lines strategically dock to provide easy access to Cartagena's wealth of cultural treasures, from the Roman Theatre to the Modernist architecture of its city center. It's a destination where history meets modern charm, leaving an indelible mark on every visitor's memory.

Day 8

Melilla

Melilla's history is deeply intertwined with Spain's colonial past. Situated on the northern coast of Africa, this autonomous Spanish city has been a strategic outpost since ancient times. Founded by the Phoenicians, it later came under Roman, Byzantine, and Moorish rule before being captured by Spain in 1497. Throughout the centuries, Melilla served as a vital military stronghold and trading hub, attracting settlers from various cultures. Today, its unique blend of Spanish and North African influences is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions, underscoring its enduring connection to Spain while retaining its distinct identity as a Mediterranean enclave.

Day 9

Motril

Day 10

Málaga

Day 1

Valletta

Day 2

Siracuse, Sicily

Day 3

Porto Empedocle

Day 4

Tunis

Day 5

Annaba (ex Bone)

Day 6

Alger (Algiers)

Day 7

Cartagena

Day 8

Melilla

Day 9

Motril

Day 10

Málaga

184

Passengers

118

Crew

2018

Launched

2022

Last refit

9976t

Tonnage

131m

Length

18m

Width

13kts

Speed

Decks

EUR

Currency

Le Lapérouse

Equipped with an underwater lounge, the Blue Eye, and the latest technologies limiting the impact on the environment, Le Lapérouse offer you a different way to experience the expedition.