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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 Explorations: 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

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.

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
7-night Ancient Jewels of the Mediterranean Cruise
  • Destination Guide
  • Suggested Shore Excursions
Destination Arrival Departure
Athens (Piraeus)

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
Paros, Greek Isle

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!

Paros: Hiking the Byzantium Road - 4 hours
Explore Paros’ historic Byzantium Road which meanders along hillsides, through cool valleys and across verdant meadows between the pretty hillside village of Lefkes and the old, fortified Cycladic settlement of Prodromos. The grey marble flagstone that makes up this road was placed approximately a thousand years ago and was once part of the main thoroughfare across the island from Paroikia to Piso Livadi, from a time when the Aegean sea was infested with pirates! Your walk across the island’s lovely interior today covers 3.5 kilometres (2.5 miles) is only a mildly strenuous amble that will take approximately one to one and a half hours. There is time to explore the charming village of Lefkes before setting out on the walk. Upon arrival into Prodromos relax at a traditional taverna and enjoy a glass of wine while nibbling on a selection of mezze dishes. Afterwards, you are transferred back to your hotel. (4 hours, driver and trekking guide)
07/26/2025 07/26/2025
Hydra, Greek Isle
07/27/2025 07/27/2025
Corinth Canal
07/27/2025 07/27/2025
Galaxidhi
07/28/2025 07/28/2025
Gallipoli
07/29/2025 07/29/2025
Taormina

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!

Taormina and Mt Etna Day - 8 hours
Full day tour of the famous Volcano Mt.Etna and Taormina

Added value:
  • Experience visiting a live volcano
  • Visit the charming sea village of Taormina
  • Stop at a local winery near Mt. Etna
  • Time for shopping on the famous Corso Umberto in Taormina
Tour duration: 8 hours
Not wheelchair accessible
Physical activity: Moderate with a fair amount of walking

Included:
  • Private car or van and English speaking driver guide.
  • Clients are picked up and dropped off at the Port
Excluded:
  • Meals
07/30/2025 07/30/2025
Siracusa
07/31/2025 07/31/2025
Valletta
08/01/2025 08/01/2025
PONANT Explorations: 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 (18 m)
Maximum Speed
14 knots
Ship Length
466 ft (142 m)
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) $5,510
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

Deluxe Stateroom (DEL) $5,800
Deluxe Stateroom
  • Category: DEL
  • Calicut
Size: 193 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
Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4) $6,110
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 
Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR5) $6,400
Prestige Balcony Stateroom
  • Category: PR5
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
Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR6) $6,760
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) $10,840
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) $12,020
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) $12,330
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.
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)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (DEL)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (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)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (DEL)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (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)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (DEL)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (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)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (DEL)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (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)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (DEL)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR5)
  • Prestige Balcony Stateroom (PR4)
  • Superior Stateroom (SP3)