Name: Jewels of Madagascar
Brand: PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Overview

Setting sail from Valetta, Le Dumont-d'Urville invites you on a memorable 8-night PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruise through the stunning waters of Mediterranean. The voyage calls at 3 ports in total; Valletta, Paxos, and Hydra are among the standouts of this Mediterranean itinerary. Whether it's exploring towns and cities ashore or unwinding on deck, this PONANT EXPLORATIONS sailing delivers variety at every turn. Secure your place from just £5,240 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

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

Taormina

Welcome to Taormina, where ancient history meets modern elegance against the backdrop of Mount Etna's majestic silhouette. This charming town boasts a Mediterranean climate, perfect for leisurely strolls through its cobblestone streets lined with quaint boutiques and cafes. Away from the typical tourist traps, Taormina offers an authentic experience that captures the essence of Italy's soul. Cruise lines often anchor here to showcase the country's true beauty, from the iconic Greek Theater with its panoramic views to the lush gardens of Villa Comunale. Fun fact: Taormina was a favorite retreat for artists and writers, including D.H. Lawrence and Truman Capote, who drew inspiration from its timeless allure.

Day 3

Gallipoli

Day 4

Parga

Day 5

Paxos

Day 6

Athens, the cradle of democracy, where philosophers like Plato and Aristotle shaped the foundations of Western thought, offers more than just a stroll through ancient ruins. With a climate that boasts mild winters and warm, sunny summers, it's ideal for year-round exploration. The city offers an authentic glimpse into the Greek way of life, away from the typical tourist traps, with bustling local markets and traditional cafes hidden in plain sight among the city's modern hustle. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Royal Caribbean offer tailored excursions to iconic spots like the Acropolis, yet it's the lesser-known Philopappos Hill that provides breathtaking views of the entire cityscape, including a direct line of sight to the Parthenon, adding a unique layer to the visitor experience.

Day 6

Galaxidi

Day 7

Milos

Day 8

Hydra

Day 9

Athens

Day 1