Name: A Circumnavigation of Sicily - with Smithsonian Journeys
Brand: PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Overview

Setting sail from Lisbon, Le Lapérouse invites you on a memorable 10-night PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruise through the stunning waters of Mediterranean and Italy. The itinerary features stops at 3 destinations, including Portimão and Mahón, Menorca, before arriving in Valletta. There's a pleasing rhythm to this cruise - days spent exploring ashore, and time on board to relax and recharge between ports. Secure your place from just £5,830 per person on this exceptional PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruise.

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

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Day 2

Portimão

Day 3

Cádiz

Journey to Cadiz, where the echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through its cobblestone streets. This maritime marvel boasts a colorful past, once a haven for Phoenician traders and a strategic outpost during Roman rule. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, Cadiz offers balmy breezes and sun-kissed shores, perfect for leisurely exploration. Unlike bustling tourist hubs, Cadiz exudes authenticity, inviting travelers to savor its laid-back ambiance and discover hidden gems around every corner. As Spain's oldest continuously inhabited city, Cadiz proudly showcases its maritime heritage, including the renowned Carnival of Cadiz, a festive extravaganza dating back over three centuries.

Day 4

At sea

Day 5

Ibiza

Day 6

Mahón, Menorca

Day 7

Alghero

Day 8

At sea

Day 9

Lipari

Day 10

Trapani, Sicily

Welcome to Trapani, where the whispers of ancient maritime trade echo through the harbor and labyrinthine streets. Basking under the Mediterranean sun, Trapani enjoys a mild climate, inviting cruisegoers to immerse themselves in its timeless charm year-round. Away from typical tourist traps, this coastal gem offers an authentic taste of Sicily's soul. Cruise lines often anchor here to showcase the real Italy, from exploring the salt flats where ancient Phoenician ships once docked to indulging in fresh seafood at local trattorias. Fun fact: Trapani is renowned for its Good Friday procession, where locals commemorate Easter with solemnity and pageantry unmatched elsewhere.

Day 11

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 1

Lisbon

Day 2

Portimão

Day 3

Cádiz

Day 4

At sea

Day 5

Ibiza

Day 6

Mahón, Menorca

Day 7

Alghero

Day 8

At sea

Day 9

Lipari

Day 10

Trapani, Sicily

Day 11

Valletta

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.