Name: Historic cities and Mediterranean shores
Brand: PONANT EXPLORATIONS

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

Palermo

Welcome to Palermo, where echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through its bustling streets and historic landmarks. Perched along the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Palermo enjoys a Mediterranean climate, offering warm summers and mild winters perfect for leisurely exploration. Away from typical tourist traps, this vibrant city offers an authentic taste of Italy's soul. Cruise lines often anchor here to showcase the country's true essence, from wandering through the vibrant markets of Ballarand Vucciria to savoring traditional Sicilian street food like arancini and panelle. Fun fact: Palermo's iconic Teatro Massimo is one of the largest opera houses in Europe, hosting world-class performances and cultural events.

Day 2

Taormina

Day 3

Lipari

Day 3

Stromboli

Day 4

Gaeta

Gaeta, with its storied maritime past, whispers tales of ancient seafaring glory. Its sheltered harbor, framed by rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, basks in the Mediterranean sun, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hubs. The mild climate blesses travelers with pleasant temperatures year-round, ideal for leisurely strolls along the cobblestone streets or relaxing on the picturesque waterfront promenade. Away from the crowds, Gaeta reveals its authentic Italian charm through quaint cafes serving freshly caught seafood and family-run trattorias dishing up traditional recipes passed down through generations. Don't miss the iconic Gaeta olives, prized for their unique flavor and centuries-old cultivation techniques.

Day 5

Bonifacio, Corsica

Day 6

Civitavecchia

Perched on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia boasts a storied past intertwined with maritime adventures. As the gateway to Rome, its harbor has welcomed seafarers for centuries, echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and grand conquests. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with balmy breezes and sun-drenched days, creating an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Away from the bustling metropolis, Civitavecchia offers an authentic Italian experience, where cobblestone streets wind through charming piazzas and trattorias serve up delectable seafood caught fresh from the sea. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the historic harbor walls, built to protect against marauding pirates centuries ago.

Day 1

Palermo

Welcome to Palermo, where echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through its bustling streets and historic landmarks. Perched along the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Palermo enjoys a Mediterranean climate, offering warm summers and mild winters perfect for leisurely exploration. Away from typical tourist traps, this vibrant city offers an authentic taste of Italy's soul. Cruise lines often anchor here to showcase the country's true essence, from wandering through the vibrant markets of Ballarand Vucciria to savoring traditional Sicilian street food like arancini and panelle. Fun fact: Palermo's iconic Teatro Massimo is one of the largest opera houses in Europe, hosting world-class performances and cultural events.

Day 2

Taormina

Day 3

Lipari

Day 3

Stromboli

Day 4

Gaeta

Gaeta, with its storied maritime past, whispers tales of ancient seafaring glory. Its sheltered harbor, framed by rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, basks in the Mediterranean sun, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hubs. The mild climate blesses travelers with pleasant temperatures year-round, ideal for leisurely strolls along the cobblestone streets or relaxing on the picturesque waterfront promenade. Away from the crowds, Gaeta reveals its authentic Italian charm through quaint cafes serving freshly caught seafood and family-run trattorias dishing up traditional recipes passed down through generations. Don't miss the iconic Gaeta olives, prized for their unique flavor and centuries-old cultivation techniques.

Day 5

Bonifacio, Corsica

Day 6

Civitavecchia

Perched on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia boasts a storied past intertwined with maritime adventures. As the gateway to Rome, its harbor has welcomed seafarers for centuries, echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and grand conquests. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with balmy breezes and sun-drenched days, creating an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Away from the bustling metropolis, Civitavecchia offers an authentic Italian experience, where cobblestone streets wind through charming piazzas and trattorias serve up delectable seafood caught fresh from the sea. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the historic harbor walls, built to protect against marauding pirates centuries ago.

Le Bougainville

Le Bougainville, the third in the series of PONANT EXPLORERS, has been designed to combine exploration, elegance and open design towards the sea with state-of-the-art equipment.