PonantEU040427
From the Iberian shores to the Italian coast
Date
2027-04-04
Duration
9 nights
Departure Port
Malaga
Spain
Arrival Port
Valletta
Malta
Rating
Luxury
Theme
—
Ponant
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Ponant Explorers
Launched
2019
Refitted
—
Tonnage
9,976 GT
Passengers
184
Cabins
92
Crew
118
Length
430 m
Width
18 m
Speed
13 knots
Adults Only
No
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1
Malaga
Depart 23:59
Málaga distils three thousand years of Mediterranean civilisation into one of Andalusia's most compelling port cities, where the Moorish Alcazaba fortress surveys a modern waterfront of elegant promenades and sun-drenched café terraces. Do not leave without visiting the Museo Picasso — the artist was born here in 1881 — and ascending to the ruined Castillo de Gibralfaro for panoramic views stretching to the Rif Mountains of Morocco on clear days. Malagueta anchovies fried in olive oil and the sweet Pedro Ximénez-laced dessert wine are the city's defining pleasures. The shoulder seasons of April, May, and October offer perfect Mediterranean warmth.
Day 3
Day 3
Cartagena
Arrive 08:00Depart 14:00
Cartagena, Spain, is a storied Mediterranean port city founded by the Carthaginians in 227 BC, where a spectacularly preserved Roman Theatre and Modernista architecture reveal layers of civilisation along a sheltered natural harbour. Visitors should not miss the caldero rice at a harbourside restaurant and a morning exploring the archaeological quarter from the Roman Forum to the Punic Wall. The mild Murcian climate makes autumn through late spring ideal, when temperatures invite leisurely wandering without the intensity of high summer.
Day 4
Day 4
Ibiza
Arrive 08:00Depart 16:00
Beneath Ibiza's sun-drenched reputation as the world's clubbing capital lies a layered history stretching back to Phoenician traders who settled this Balearic island in 654 BC. The UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila — the walled hilltop citadel above Eivissa town — rewards exploration with Carthaginian burial grounds, Renaissance ramparts, and sweeping Mediterranean panoramas. For quieter pleasures, the crystalline coves of the island's north, such as Cala d'en Serra and Es Portitxol, rival any beach in Europe. The Phoenician necropolis of Puig des Molins is unmissable for history devotees. The season runs May through October, with June and September offering ideal weather without peak-summer crowds.
Day 5
Day 5
Mahon
Arrive 08:00Depart 16:00
Mahón commands one of the Mediterranean's deepest natural harbours, a fjord-like inlet on Menorca that captivated British admirals, Phoenician traders, and Roman generals in turn — its Georgian townhouses and gin distilleries speaking eloquently to centuries of contested heritage. Explore the clifftop old town's baroque Santa María church with its 3,200-pipe organ, then cross the water to the imposing fortress of La Mola for sweeping harbour views. The island's prized caldereta de langosta, a slow-simmered lobster stew, is best savoured at the fishing village of Fornells. Visit between May and June or September and October for warmth without the summer crowds.
Day 6
Day 6
At Sea
Day 7
Day 7
Palermo
Arrive 07:00Depart 22:00
Palermo is the Mediterranean's most intoxicating crossroads of civilisations — Arab arches meet Byzantine gold mosaics beneath Norman royal chapels in the extraordinary Palatine Chapel, a monument to 12th-century multicultural brilliance that is Sicily's single greatest work of art. The Ballarò and Capo street markets, among southern Italy's most atmospheric, tumble through the ancient city in a sensory barrage of swordfish, blood oranges, jasmine, and street food improvised across centuries. Do not leave without tasting arancini and sfincione, Sicily's gloriously thick street pizza. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the ideal climate — warm enough for the sea, cool enough for extended walking.
Day 8
Day 8
Reggio Di Calabria
Arrive 13:00Depart 22:00
Reggio di Calabria is the toe of Italy's boot, home to the magnificent Bronzi di Riace bronze warriors and a sun-drenched waterfront promenade overlooking the Strait of Messina and Sicily. Must-dos include visiting the Magna Grecia museum, tasting 'nduja and grilled swordfish, and walking the Lungomare with Mount Etna in view. May through October offers the warmest weather and calmest strait conditions.
Day 8
Day 8
Stromboli
Stromboli is an active volcanic island in the Aeolian archipelago that has erupted continuously for over two thousand years, earning its nickname as the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean. Must-dos include witnessing nighttime eruptions from the sea, hiking to the Sciara del Fuoco viewpoint, and tasting salt-cured capers and Malvasia wine on a terrace beneath the glowing summit. May through October offers calm seas and clear skies for the best eruption viewing.
Day 9
Day 9
Syracuse
Arrive 07:00Depart 18:00
Syracuse (Siracusa) is one of the ancient world's greatest cities, featuring the island quarter of Ortigia—a baroque masterpiece built over Greek temple ruins—and an archaeological park with a fifth-century BC theatre still hosting summer performances. Must-dos include Ortigia's cathedral with its embedded Greek columns, the morning market, and tasting pasta with sea urchin. April through June and September through November offer ideal temperatures.
Day 10
Day 10
Valletta
Arrive 07:30
Valletta, Europe's smallest capital, is a fortress city of exceptional grandeur raised from bare limestone in just fifteen years after the Knights of St. John repelled the great Ottoman siege of 1565 — its rigid Renaissance grid of sun-drenched streets concealing a density of baroque palaces, gilded oratories, and subterranean World War II shelters unrivaled anywhere in the Mediterranean. The Grand Harbour, framed by golden bastions plunging into startlingly blue water, offers one of the most dramatically photogenic arrivals in the world for arriving vessels. Spring and autumn deliver the most comfortable temperatures for exploring this UNESCO-listed gem.
Day 1
Malaga
Depart 23:59
Málaga distils three thousand years of Mediterranean civilisation into one of Andalusia's most compelling port cities, where the Moorish Alcazaba fortress surveys a modern waterfront of elegant promenades and sun-drenched café terraces. Do not leave without visiting the Museo Picasso — the artist was born here in 1881 — and ascending to the ruined Castillo de Gibralfaro for panoramic views stretching to the Rif Mountains of Morocco on clear days. Malagueta anchovies fried in olive oil and the sweet Pedro Ximénez-laced dessert wine are the city's defining pleasures. The shoulder seasons of April, May, and October offer perfect Mediterranean warmth.
Day 3
Cartagena
Arrive 08:00Depart 14:00
Cartagena, Spain, is a storied Mediterranean port city founded by the Carthaginians in 227 BC, where a spectacularly preserved Roman Theatre and Modernista architecture reveal layers of civilisation along a sheltered natural harbour. Visitors should not miss the caldero rice at a harbourside restaurant and a morning exploring the archaeological quarter from the Roman Forum to the Punic Wall. The mild Murcian climate makes autumn through late spring ideal, when temperatures invite leisurely wandering without the intensity of high summer.
Day 4
Ibiza
Arrive 08:00Depart 16:00
Beneath Ibiza's sun-drenched reputation as the world's clubbing capital lies a layered history stretching back to Phoenician traders who settled this Balearic island in 654 BC. The UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila — the walled hilltop citadel above Eivissa town — rewards exploration with Carthaginian burial grounds, Renaissance ramparts, and sweeping Mediterranean panoramas. For quieter pleasures, the crystalline coves of the island's north, such as Cala d'en Serra and Es Portitxol, rival any beach in Europe. The Phoenician necropolis of Puig des Molins is unmissable for history devotees. The season runs May through October, with June and September offering ideal weather without peak-summer crowds.
Day 5
Mahon
Arrive 08:00Depart 16:00
Mahón commands one of the Mediterranean's deepest natural harbours, a fjord-like inlet on Menorca that captivated British admirals, Phoenician traders, and Roman generals in turn — its Georgian townhouses and gin distilleries speaking eloquently to centuries of contested heritage. Explore the clifftop old town's baroque Santa María church with its 3,200-pipe organ, then cross the water to the imposing fortress of La Mola for sweeping harbour views. The island's prized caldereta de langosta, a slow-simmered lobster stew, is best savoured at the fishing village of Fornells. Visit between May and June or September and October for warmth without the summer crowds.
Day 6
At Sea
Day 7
Palermo
Arrive 07:00Depart 22:00
Palermo is the Mediterranean's most intoxicating crossroads of civilisations — Arab arches meet Byzantine gold mosaics beneath Norman royal chapels in the extraordinary Palatine Chapel, a monument to 12th-century multicultural brilliance that is Sicily's single greatest work of art. The Ballarò and Capo street markets, among southern Italy's most atmospheric, tumble through the ancient city in a sensory barrage of swordfish, blood oranges, jasmine, and street food improvised across centuries. Do not leave without tasting arancini and sfincione, Sicily's gloriously thick street pizza. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the ideal climate — warm enough for the sea, cool enough for extended walking.
Day 8
Reggio Di Calabria
Arrive 13:00Depart 22:00
Reggio di Calabria is the toe of Italy's boot, home to the magnificent Bronzi di Riace bronze warriors and a sun-drenched waterfront promenade overlooking the Strait of Messina and Sicily. Must-dos include visiting the Magna Grecia museum, tasting 'nduja and grilled swordfish, and walking the Lungomare with Mount Etna in view. May through October offers the warmest weather and calmest strait conditions.
Stromboli
Stromboli is an active volcanic island in the Aeolian archipelago that has erupted continuously for over two thousand years, earning its nickname as the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean. Must-dos include witnessing nighttime eruptions from the sea, hiking to the Sciara del Fuoco viewpoint, and tasting salt-cured capers and Malvasia wine on a terrace beneath the glowing summit. May through October offers calm seas and clear skies for the best eruption viewing.
Day 9
Syracuse
Arrive 07:00Depart 18:00
Syracuse (Siracusa) is one of the ancient world's greatest cities, featuring the island quarter of Ortigia—a baroque masterpiece built over Greek temple ruins—and an archaeological park with a fifth-century BC theatre still hosting summer performances. Must-dos include Ortigia's cathedral with its embedded Greek columns, the morning market, and tasting pasta with sea urchin. April through June and September through November offer ideal temperatures.
Day 10
Valletta
Arrive 07:30
Valletta, Europe's smallest capital, is a fortress city of exceptional grandeur raised from bare limestone in just fifteen years after the Knights of St. John repelled the great Ottoman siege of 1565 — its rigid Renaissance grid of sun-drenched streets concealing a density of baroque palaces, gilded oratories, and subterranean World War II shelters unrivaled anywhere in the Mediterranean. The Grand Harbour, framed by golden bastions plunging into startlingly blue water, offers one of the most dramatically photogenic arrivals in the world for arriving vessels. Spring and autumn deliver the most comfortable temperatures for exploring this UNESCO-listed gem.
Cabin Categories
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Suite
290 m²Max 3
1
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Suite
290 m²Max 3
2
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic slidging bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Suite
290 m²Max 3
3
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Suite
290 m²Max 3
4
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
A bathroom with shower
A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTV+13
View Details
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Suite
484 m²Max 4
GDS
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with sofa convetible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm), armchair, and second TV
A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub
A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table
2 panoramic sliding bay windows
King or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedFree Wi-FiSafeHair Dryer+12
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Owner's Suite
Suite
484 m²Max 4
OS
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Private return transfer
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A lounge with armchair, double sofa bed (160 x 190 cm), and second TV
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A bathroom with shower, Balneo bathtub and smart mirror
A one-hour spa treatments per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer
Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar
A private 40 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, jacuzzi, and outdoor lounge area with sofa and armchair
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
King or Twin ConfigurationShowerBathToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableButler Service+14
View Details
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Suite
8
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
Two bathrooms with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
View Details
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Suite
9
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
Two bathrooms with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs
Two panoramic sliding bay windows
View Details
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Suite
344 m²Max 3
10
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Butler service
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedButler ServiceTV+12
View Details
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Suite
344 m²Max 3
11
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket on arrival
Butler service
An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window
King or Twin ConfigurationSofa BedShowerToiletries ProvidedButler ServiceTV+12
View Details
Deluxe Stateroom
Balcony
204 m²Max 2
D
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A glazed panoramic swing door and rectangular window
King or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+11
View Details
Prestige Deck 4
Suite
409 m²Max 4
5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
King or Twin ConfigurationToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableButler ServiceSafeHair Dryer+14
View Details
Prestige Deck 5
Suite
409 m²Max 4
6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
King or Twin ConfigurationToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableButler ServiceSafeHair Dryer+14
View Details
Prestige Deck 6
Balcony
7
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
One chaise longue
A bathroom with shower
A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door
View Details
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