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10 Night The Mediterranean In the Footsteps of Great Civilizations Cruise

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L'Austral

Category SSF - Seven Seas Suite Forward
Seven Seas Suite (Forward)

Photos are examples only. Actual cabin colors and features may vary.

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10 Night The Mediterranean In the Footsteps of Great Civilizations Cruise from Valletta

Ship: L'Austral

Cruise Line: Ponant Cruises

Sailed: Thursday, May 9, 2024 from Valletta, Malta

Ended: Sunday, May 19, 2024

The itinerary information below reflects the original day-by-day port of call schedule for the Thursday, May 9, 2024 departure of the L'Austral. If Ponant Cruises modified this itinerary for weather or operational reasons after departing , the modified schedule would not be reflected here.

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Itinerary

Day by Day Summary and Map

Day 1 - Thursday - May 9, 2024

Valletta, Malta

Depart: 6:30 pm

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 Triton to Saint Elmo 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 Grandmaster's 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.

Day 2 - Friday - May 10, 2024

Siracusa, Italy

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.

Day 3 - Saturday - May 11, 2024

Gallipoli, Italy

Gallipoli, which comes from the Greek kale 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 facades 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 civilizations of the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 4 - Sunday - May 12, 2024

Corfu, Greece

Named after the island, Corfu is the most famous city in the Ionian islands. Protected by citadel fortifications, its old city, designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, displays unusual Greco-Byzantine and Venetian architecture. Above the water stands Saint George's Church, looking uncannily like a classical temple. The picturesque Pontikonisi, a stone's throw from the southern point of the town, is the legendary island where Odysseus landed.

Day 5 - Monday - May 13, 2024

Itea, Greece

Tucked away in the Gulf of Corinth, this little port is situated in continental Greece, north-west of Athens. Take an easy stroll along the old cobblestone quays, while gazing at the summits encircling the Bay of Itea. We wouldn't be surprised if you are tempted by a visit to the Delphi Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located on a plateau on the slope of Mount Parnassus, just ten kilometres from Itea. A listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience whose ancient ruins are surrounded by steep mountains.

Cruising the Corinth Canal, Greece

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!

Day 6 - Tuesday - May 14, 2024

Lavrion, Greece

Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent Temple of Poseidon.

Day 7 - Wednesday - May 15, 2024

Volos, Greece

Volos, one of the biggest port cities in Greece, is located at the foot of Mount Pelion. According to mythology, Mount Pelion was a place of celebration for gods and heroes, and the home of the centaurs. The beauty of the place and the magical atmosphere that reigns here can indeed only have been inspired by the gods: the clear water that flows from a multitude of sources bathes the plane trees, apple trees, oaks, beech trees, gardenias, camellias, and hydrangeas that thrive in the fertile soil of Thessaly. Do not miss your chance to visit picturesque village of Milies in the hills, and to discover its traditional architecture.

Day 8 - Thursday - May 16, 2024

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. You can bathe there in clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk in the shade of palms. In the historical district, you can take a mosey down the narrow streets and explore the colourful shops in the bazaar. Close by, the Ephesus archaeological site in the hillsides provides an opportunity to discover the ruins of one of the most famous cities of Antiquity.

Day 9 - Friday - May 17, 2024

At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship's upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

Day 10 - Saturday - May 18, 2024

Alanya, Turkey

On the Turkish Riviera, discover Alanya. This peninsula bordered by the Taurus Mountains enjoys a prime location in the Mediterranean Sea, which made it a strategic position for the rulers of the region during antiquity. Perched on rocky cliffs, its castle dating from the Seljuk period is an open-air museum overlooking the turquoise beaches. From the Ottoman period are the splendid, red-tiled villas and the octagonal Red Tower dating from 1226, the symbol of the city. Alanya is now a popular seaside resort, and you can enjoy the beach where Cleopatra - the most famous Egyptian queen - is said to have bathed.

Day 11 - Sunday - May 19, 2024

Antalya, Turkey

On the Turkish Mediterranean coast, discover the seaside resort of Antalya. While the city sports magnificent fine sandy beaches, it is also known for its significant historical heritage. Many vestiges bear witness to the importance of this former Roman port, such as Hadrian's Gate, built in the year 130 in honour of the visiting emperor. In the old town, it is possible to admire magnificent Ottoman houses with flowery gardens, as well as the broken minaret, built on the ruins of a former Byzantine church. The city's surroundings also provide an opportunity to discover major archaeological sites, such as that of the ancient city of Aspendos, renowned for its impressive Roman theatre.

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Other Sail Dates and Itineraries on L'Austral

Sail Date	Itinerary Name	Interior From	Oceanview From	Balcony From	Suite From	Details
May 19, 2024(Sunday)	10 Night The Mediterranean In the Footsteps of Great Civilizations Departing from Antalya, Turkey	Call For Price	$7,190per person	$7,770per person	$17,770per person	View
May 19, 2024(Sunday)	10 Night The Mediterranean In the Footsteps of Great Civilizations Departing from Antalya, Turkey	Call For Price	$7,190per person	$7,770per person	$17,770per person	View
May 29, 2024(Wednesday)	8 Night From Malta to the Adriatic Coast Departing from Valletta, Malta Gastronomy & Wine Learn More >	Call For Price	Call For Price	$9,080per person	Call For Price	View
May 29, 2024(Wednesday)	8 Night From Malta to the Adriatic Coast Departing from Valletta, Malta Gastronomy & Wine Learn More >	Call For Price	Call For Price	$9,080per person	Call For Price	View
Jun 6, 2024(Thursday)	7 Night The Best of Croatia Departing from Venice, Italy	Call For Price	Call For Price	Call For Price	Call For Price	View

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