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7-night Ancient Jewels of the Mediterranean Cruise

Athens(Piraeus)/Valletta
7-night Ancient Jewels of the Mediterranean Cruise
July 25, 2025
PONANT: L'Austral
Athens(Piraeus)/Valletta
Vacation Offer ID 1545057
Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.
Exclusive Offer
  • $200 per Couple Shipboard Credit
Overview
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Ship Info
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Activities & Services
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Staterooms
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Deckplans

Cruise Theme: Art & Museums

<p>Treat yourself to moments of quality discussions and attend lectures by curators from national and international museums. Along the itinerary, these experts will showcase the riches of the selected subjects.</p>
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
The Signature Collection Sailings offer Exceptional Value and Exclusive Amenities.

Cruise Inclusions

Cruise, meals, and more... including:

  • Complimentary Open Bar including alcoholic beverages, bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees, and fully stocked stateroom mini bar
  • Complimentary Fine Cuisine Restaurants
  • Complimentary 24-hour room service for all staterooms and suites
  • Complimentary Unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the ship
  • Complimentary Gratuities
  • Complimentary 24-hour butler service in suites
  • Complimentary use of Wellness facilities
  • Complimentary Concierge Service for all staterooms and suites
  • HERMES amenities
  • Open Bridge Policy
  • Destination Guide
  • Suggested Shore Excursions
Destination Arrival Departure
Athens (Piraeus)

Athens (Piraeus) 07/25/2025

The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours
Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour.

For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship.

Highlights:
  • Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world
  • Tour the Benaki Museum
Tour Duration: 8 Hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Private transport by luxury car or minivan
  • An expert local guide for 8 hours
  • Entrance fees to all sights and museums
    All taxes
Exclusions:
  • All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
  • Gratuities
Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours
Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus.

Highlights:
  • Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon
Tour Duration: 5 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:
•    Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
•    An expert A&K local guide (5 hours)
•    Entrance fees
•    All taxes

Exclusions:
•    All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
•    Gratuities
07/25/2025 07/25/2025
Patmos

Patmos 07/26/2025

Patmos is one of the legendary must-see islands in the Dodecanese. This is where Saint John resided, presumed author of the last book in the Bible. The cave of the Apocalypse and the Saint John Monastery are dedicated to him. These sites, which are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are located at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer absolutely gorgeous swimming areas.
07/26/2025 07/26/2025
Hydra, Greek Isle

Hydra, Greek Isle 07/27/2025

This unusual gem belonging to the Saronic islands is located to the east of the Peloponnese. There are no cars here. Named after the island, the harbour town is layered up the slopes of a mountainous bay. You may be surprised to see beautiful stone mansions. These are traditional here, as are the multi-coloured caïques along the quays. Further along the shore, you will discover the Historical Archives Museum. Collections from Athens National History Museum are exhibited in the elegant villa Koundouriotis.
07/27/2025 07/27/2025
Corinth Canal

Corinth Canal 07/27/2025

The Corinth Canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, turning the Peloponnese into an island as it separates the region from the Greek mainland. Inaugurated in 1893, the canal is a little over six kilometres long and enables merchant vessels and passenger to avoid a long 400-km detour around the peninsula. The two sides of the canal reach a height of approximately fifty metres. From the exterior decks, don’t miss this unique opportunity to watch the ship as it navigates along the narrow strip of water encased between tall, ochre cliffs. What an experience!
07/27/2025 07/27/2025
Galaxidhi

Galaxidhi 07/28/2025

Encircled by captivating arid mountains and a sea front of unrivalled beauty, picturesque Galaxidi stands proudly in the Gulf of Corinth, on the shores of Krisaikos Bay. You will fall in love with the authentic character of this preserved and majestic town, with its paved little streets edged with former neo-classical residences, remnants of the naval era, and sumptuous religious buildings. Like one of the town’s symbols: the church of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas). The building with Byzantine architecture dominates the town, and boasts two bell towers and a monumental dome.
07/28/2025 07/28/2025
Gallipoli

Gallipoli 07/29/2025

Gallipoli, which comes from the Greek kalle polis, meaning beautiful town, is very aptly named. Located on the heel of the boot, the town known as “the pearl of Puglia” has many attractions. The whiteness of its façades recalls its Greek origins while its architecture echoes its multiple influences. Its old town, perched on a limestone island, concentrates the cultural heritage of this city with a thousand faces, alternately a Roman colony, then Byzantine, the property of the Popes, Norman, under the rule of Taranto… By itself, it tells the story of the different civilisations of the Mediterranean Sea.
07/29/2025 07/29/2025
Taormina

Taormina 07/30/2025

Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, in the province of Messina, the seaside town of Taormina is Sicily’s Saint-Tropez, boasting heritage sites, secluded beaches and luxury shopping. You can visit its medieval centre, suspended 300 metres above sea level, where terraces offer a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another vestige from its past are the ruins of the Greco-Roman theatre. This extremely well-preserved site attracts visitors who are fascinated by the natural beauty of the area which overlooks a turquoise bay.
07/30/2025 07/30/2025
Siracusa

Siracusa 07/31/2025

Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.
07/31/2025 07/31/2025
Valletta

Valletta 08/01/2025

The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.
08/01/2025 08/01/2025
PONANT: L'Austral
Innovative design, sleek shape and profile, refined interior decoration, friendly, intimate atmosphere: French designers and decorators have managed to give this ship a unique style and veritable signature of its own. Combinations of fine materials, colors and tones harmoniously livened up with touches of bright color, elegant lines, discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambiance of a veritable private yacht.
Ship Highlights
  • Feel cozy and refined in The Main Lounge with relaxation atmosphere with lively spaces
  • Enjoy a moment of tranquility at the spa or around the pool, work-out in the fitness room, enjoy a theatre show with your travel companions
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning Stateroom
Ship Statistics
Maiden Voyage
2011
Last Refurbished
2018
Registry
France
Built In
Italy
Gross tonnage
10 944 UMS
Beam
59 ft
Maximum Speed
14 knots
Ship Length
466 ft
Passenger Capacity
264
Number of Crew
264
Number of Decks
6
Dining / Restaurants
2
Spa
1
Staterooms / Suites
132

Dining

Grill Restaurant
Enjoy breakfasts, buffet lunches and themed dinners in a relaxed atmosphere at the grill restaurant on Deck 6.

Bars & Lounges

Exterior Bar
Exterior bar is a lounge area with seating of 50 guest.
Open Air Bar And Pool
Open Air Bar And Pool.
Panoramic Lounge
Panoramic lounge includes Library, internet space, bar, live entertainment on certain evenings.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Entertainment & Nightlife
Theatre provides conference room, concert hall/multi-purpose auditorium.

Wellness

Spa
Spa in partnership with SOTHYS™: massage and treatment cubicles, beauty salon cubicle, balneotherapy cubicle.
Spa Beauty Area
Spa Beauty Area.

Onboard Activities

Lobby
Lobby.

Oceanview

Superior Stateroom (SP3) $4,690
Superior Stateroom
  • Category: SP3
  • Calicut
Size: 226 sq.ft. superior staterooms located on Deck3. Amenities: 
    •    Individually-controlled air-conditioning
    •    Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
    •    Shower
    •    Minibar
    •    Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Desk with stationery
    •    DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
    •    Video on demand
    •    Safe
    •    Hairdryer
    •    Bath robes
    •    Satellite direct line telephone
    •    110/220 volts outlet
    •    French bath products
    •    24hr room service
    •    Internet access wifi 

Balcony

(DEL) $4,930
  • Category: DEL
  • Calicut
Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4) $5,180
Prestige Balcony Stateroom
  • Category: PR4
  • Chandernagor
  • Mahe
  • Bengale
Size: 200 sq.ft. + 43 sq.ft. balcony. Prestige Staterooms with private balcony. Amenities: 
    •    Individually-controlled air-conditioning
    •    Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
    •    Shower
    •    Minibar
    •    Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Desk with stationery
    •    DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
    •    Video on demand
    •    Safe
    •    Hairdryer
    •    Bath robes
    •    Satellite direct line telephone
    •    110/220 volts outlet
    •    French bath products
    •    24hr room service
    •    Internet access wifi 
(PR5) $5,430
  • Category: PR5
Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR6) $5,720
Prestige Balcony Stateroom
  • Category: PR6
Size: 200 sq.ft. + 43 sq.ft. balcony. Prestige Staterooms with private balcony. Amenities: 
    •    Individually-controlled air-conditioning
    •    Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
    •    Shower
    •    Minibar
    •    Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Desk with stationery
    •    DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
    •    Video on demand
    •    Safe
    •    Hairdryer
    •    Bath robes
    •    Satellite direct line telephone
    •    110/220 volts outlet
    •    French bath products
    •    24hr room service

Suite

Deluxe Suite (DS6) $9,130
Deluxe Suite
  • Category: DS6
  • Mahe
Size: 290 sq.ft. + 54 sq.ft. balcony. There are 3 Deluxe Suites with private balcony. Amenities: 
    •    Individually-controlled air-conditioning
    •    Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
    •    Shower
    •    Minibar
    •    Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Desk with stationery
    •    DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
    •    Video on demand
    •    Safe
    •    Hairdryer
    •    Bath robes
    •    Satellite direct line telephone
    •    110/220 volts outlet
    •    French bath products
    •    24hr room service
    •    Internet access wifi
    •    Sofa
    •    Armchair & Pedestal table 
Prestige Suite (PS5) $10,110
Prestige Suite
  • Category: PS5
  • Bengale
  • Mahe
Size: 398 sq.ft. + 85 sq.ft. balcony. 20 Prestige Suites with private balcony will provide you a sea with in total discretion. Amenities: 
    •    Individually-controlled air-conditioning
    •    Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available
    •    Shower
    •    Minibar
    •    Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Desk with stationery
    •    DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
    •    Video on demand
    •    Safe
    •    Hairdryer
    •    Bath robes
    •    Satellite direct line telephone
    •    110/220 volts outlet
    •    French bath products
    •    24hr room service
    •    Internet acces wifi
    •    Another Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Sofa
    •    Armchair & Pedestal table
Prestige Suite (PS6) $10,360
Prestige Suite
  • Category: PS6
Size: 398 sq.ft. + 85 sq.ft. balcony. 20 Prestige Suites with private balcony will provide you a sea with in total discretion. Amenities: 
    •    Individually-controlled air-conditioning
    •    Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available 
    •    Shower
    •    Minibar
    •    Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Desk with stationery
    •    DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
    •    Video on demand
    •    Safe
    •    Hairdryer
    •    Bath robes
    •    Satellite direct line telephone
    •    110/220 volts outlet
    •    French bath products
    •    24hr room service
    •    Internet access wifi
    •    Another Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Sofa
    •    Armchair & Pedestal table 
Owner's Suite (SA) Call for pricing
Owner's Suite
  • Category: SA
  • Mahe
Size: 484 sq.ft. + 97 sq.ft. balcony. Owner's Suites are decorated by French interior designers and will provide you a breathtaking panoramic sea view. Amenities: 
    •    Individually-controlled air-conditioning
    •    Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available 
    •    Bathtub or shower
    •    Minibar
    •    Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Desk with stationery
    •    DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
    •    Video on demand
    •    Safe
    •    Hairdryer
    •    Bath robes
    •    Satellite direct line telephone
    •    110/220 volts outlet
    •    French bath products
    •    24hr room service
    •    Internet access wifi
    •    Another Flat screen satellite TV
    •    Large bathtub
    •    Sofa
    •    Table with 4 chairs
    •    Armchair & Pedestal table 
Fares listed are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted.

 

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

Mahe

Stateroom Key

  • Owner's Suite (SA)
  • Prestige Suite (PS6)
  • Deluxe Suite (DS6)
  • Prestige Suite (PS5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR6)
  • (DEL)
  • (PR5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4)
  • Superior Stateroom (SP3)
Bengale

Stateroom Key

  • Owner's Suite (SA)
  • Prestige Suite (PS6)
  • Deluxe Suite (DS6)
  • Prestige Suite (PS5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR6)
  • (DEL)
  • (PR5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4)
  • Superior Stateroom (SP3)
Chandernagor

Stateroom Key

  • Owner's Suite (SA)
  • Prestige Suite (PS6)
  • Deluxe Suite (DS6)
  • Prestige Suite (PS5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR6)
  • (DEL)
  • (PR5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4)
  • Superior Stateroom (SP3)
Calicut

Stateroom Key

  • Owner's Suite (SA)
  • Prestige Suite (PS6)
  • Deluxe Suite (DS6)
  • Prestige Suite (PS5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR6)
  • (DEL)
  • (PR5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4)
  • Superior Stateroom (SP3)
Pondichery

Stateroom Key

  • Owner's Suite (SA)
  • Prestige Suite (PS6)
  • Deluxe Suite (DS6)
  • Prestige Suite (PS5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR6)
  • (DEL)
  • (PR5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4)
  • Superior Stateroom (SP3)