Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
Epicurean Delights of Sicily and the Adriatic Coast of Italy
Valletta - Venice
Dates:
10/6/2025
to
18/6/2025
days
nights on board
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT themed voyages that are specially-tailored for travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
This carefully curated voyage to Sicily and Italy's Adriatic coast combines visits to some of the most culturally rich destinations in the country with a focus also on the distinctive culinary traditions of the regions visited. Moving from Greco-Roman Sicily, through the Baroque cities of Puglia and the Renaissance town of Urbino, to Ravenna and Venice, you explore no fewer than seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And as you make your way, you sample the wines of Etna, Apulia, San Marcello, Romagna, and Valdobbiadene, as well as the breads, olives, meats, and cheeses of each province. An ideal way to experience Italy, where food—its cultivation and preparation—has always been central to the good life.
As a special treat, acclaimed Italian chef Denny Imbroisi and his team will join you aboard to prepare authentic Italian dishes for you to enjoy during your voyage.
After departing Valletta, Malta, your experience of Sicily begins in Syracuse, where you may choose to focus on Ortygia, the ancient center of this once-powerful Greek colony, and on the city's extensive archaeological park; enjoy a tasting at a nearby winery; or join excursions—including one to Baroque Noto—that combine visits to historical sites with samplings of arancini, cheeses, salamis, breads, and desserts.
The beautiful resort town of Taormina, perched high on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, is home to a stunning Greek theater, an Odeon from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, and villas built by European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is also your gateway to Mt. Etna and the vineyards that thrive in the rich volcanic soils of its slopes.
Leaving Sicily, the first two calls on the Italian mainland are in the wine- and olive-producing region of Puglia. The seaside town of Otranto offers a choice of excursions—to Lecce or to Nardo—both of which explore the Baroque architectural heritage that dominates Puglia, and both of which offer samplings of local cuisine paired with Apulian wines. In Bari, the region's capital, you may choose to travel inland to the Valle d'Itria to visit a mozzarella farm and to explore the lovely town of Martina Franca and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello's trulli houses. Or you may stay in Bari for a walking tour of the Old Town, including tastings of local specialties like focaccia, panzerotto, sgagliozze, and cremoso.
A full day in Ancona offers a variety of possibilities for discovery of the Marche. Visit Jesi, where the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II was born and where a splendid museum traces his life and work; travel to an artisanal winery in San Marcello where the famous Lacrima di Morro D'Alba is produced; or spend the day exploring Urbino, birthplace of Raphael and home to one of the most important collections of Renaissance art in the world.
Ravenna's 5th- and 6th-century churches are known for their stunning Byzantine mosaics, and you will want to spend time admiring them and what Dante described as their "symphony of color." Or you may want to travel into the hills of Romagna, where Sangiovese di Romagna red wine is produced, or to the town of Brisighella, source of the eponymous extra virgin olive oil.
Your final day on this cultural and culinary journey is in Venice. Three possible excursions are in the city itself: an introduction to the uniquely Venetian crafts of mask-making and gondola manufacture; bar-hopping in the tavernas around the Rialto Bridge, sampling wines and cicchetti along the way; and a tour of Venice's hidden gardens. An additional possibility is to travel to Valdobbiadene, famous for its production of Prosecco Superiore.
Ref : VVIF45US - EG100625
Your itinerary
A voyage including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call. Engaging discussions and tastings onboard with two food and wine experts:...
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Included in your cruise
To make sure things run smoothly, PONANT has included certain elements before and after your cruise as part of the price.
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE BORÉAL
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LE BELLOT
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
Laetitia Ouspointour will lead you in a discovery of the wines of Sicily and Italy from a fresh angle, that of her creation. During a workshop aboard, you will discover how to work out a balanced wine that speaks to you. Her approach remains friendly and accessible, and she looks forward to taking you on a journey through the aromas and tastes of the wines of Sicily and Italy!
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
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Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A voyage including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
- Engaging discussions and tastings onboard with two food and wine experts: Italian food writer Maureen Fant and wine expert and sommelier Laetitia Ouspointour.
- Italian cuisine aboard prepared by special guest chef Denny Imbroisi.
- A sampling of local cuisines and award-winning wines throughout the voyage.
- UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Syracuse, Noto, the trulli of Alberobello, Urbino, the Churches of Ravenna, Venice and its Lagoon, and the hill country of Valdobbiadene.
- Well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins in Syracuse and Taormina.
- Outstanding examples of Baroque and Rococo architecture, especially in Noto, Lecce, and Martina Franca.
- Stunning Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna.
- A full day of exploration in Venice, La Serenissima.
Ports of Call & Excursions
10 June 2025 - Valletta
Embarkation 10/6/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 10/6/2025 at 6:00 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 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.
11 June 2025 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 11/6/2025 early morning
Departure 11/6/2025 evening
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.
12 June 2025 - Taormina, Sicily
Arrival 12/6/2025 early morning
Departure 12/6/2025 late afternoon
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.
13 June 2025 - Otranto
Arrival 13/6/2025 midday
Departure 13/6/2025 evening
Located in the Apulia region, Otrante is the easternmost transalpine town. Behind its medieval ramparts, you will taste the sweetlife of Salento, the “heel on Italy’s boot”. Inhabited since Antiquity, Otrante has today become a very pleasant seaside town. Yet its history is still visible as you meander through the little streets of its old centre. With its magnificent 12th century ornamental mosaic tiling, the Cathedral is one of its most beautiful treasures. During a stroll along the ramparts, you can sit and relax at a café terrace.
14 June 2025 - Bari
Arrival 14/6/2025 early morning
Departure 14/6/2025 midday
Extending out along a fertile plain facing the Adriatic Sea amid infinite landscapes sculpted by the water and wind, Bari bears the traces of the peoples which, over the centuries, have conquered it, settled it, or simply visited it fleetingly before making their way to faraway lands. Though its exact origins are lost among the mysteries of archaeology, the many sites here provide evidence of the town’s rich past. The Saracens, Byzantines, Normans and Swabians have left a trace here, each bringing their own cultural baggage. During your stop here, stroll along the minuscule streets in Bari Vecchia, the historic centre, where you will find small churches and monuments from bygone eras.
15 June 2025 - Ancona
Arrival 15/6/2025 early morning
Departure 15/6/2025 evening
Situated on the promontory of Monte Conero, Ancona, the capital of the Marche region, offers visitors all the charm of a typical Italian historical city. Founded by the Greeks in 390 BC and conquered by Julius Caesar in 49 BC, Ancona has a long history that was very much shaped by its harbour, a hub attracting different populations and cultures. When your ship calls here, take the time to discover the city’s many buildings, such as the cathedral dedicated to Judas Cyriacus and its façade made of white and pink marble, the Arch of Trajan, which is considered to be the port’s main embellishment, or the 15th century mansion where the painter Raphael was raised.
16 June 2025 - Ravenna
Arrival 16/6/2025 early morning
Departure 16/6/2025 evening
Linked to the Adriatic Sea by a canal, the city of Ravenna and its countless monuments offer you a rich journey back in time. Roman and Byzantine cultures intermingle here, and the fruits of this history adorn the interiors of the cityﾒs religious buildings: the abundance of classical mosaics is the most stunning witness to Ravennaﾒs glorious past. Eight UNESCO World Heritage listed Paleo-Christian sites punctuate your journey into the historic heart of the city. Still very lively despite the weight of its history, Ravenna has much to offer to visitors.
17 June 2025 18 June 2025 - Venice
Arrival 17/6/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 18/6/2025 at 8:00 am
Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.
Baroque Town of Noto
Noto has origins in the ancient past, having been founded in the 5th century B.C. during the period of Greek colonization, but it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1693. The subsequent rebuilding of the city according to 18th-century ideas of architectural design and town planning has made Noto the quintessential example of Sicilian Baroque. The town is built on terraces connected by monumental flights of steps and is filled with churches and palaces with varying degrees of embellishment but sharing a common architectural theme.
Upon arrival, walk across the Public Gardens, where busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style are on display. The centrally located and resplendent Cathedral has been restored following the earthquake of 1990. You will also visit other impressive buildings, including the Churches of St. Domenico and St. Charles, the Ducezio Palace, and Villadorata Palace. Noto was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and the United Nations provides financial support for the reconstruction of the town’s monuments.
At the end of your walking tour of this beautiful town, stop at a local bar specializing in gelato and sorbet, where you will sample some of the treats for which Noto is famous – especially a granita with brioche and coffee.
- This excursion involves about 1 mile of walking over mostly easy terrain, with steps to enter churches. Comfortable shoes and using sunscreen/hats for sun protection is recommended. Appropriate dress is requested to enter churches (shoulders/knees covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walking Tour of Ortygia Island
Ortygia, a tiny island just off the coast, is the original center of the ancient city of Syracuse. Meet your guide at the pier and begin your exploration on foot of this tangle of narrow streets that open onto splendid piazzas.
At the Piazza Pancali discover the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Next, walk through the food market and delight in the sounds and smells as you discover a vast selection of the region’s produce, meats, seafood, and cheeses.
Walk through the Corso Matteotti and Archimedes Square en route to the stunning Piazza del Duomo. As the name suggests, this is the site of the Cathedral (Duomo) of Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as is the entire city. Originally built in the 5th century B.C. as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and later turned into a Christian Basilica, it features a Baroque façade, constructed during the restoration following the 1693 earthquake.
End at the Fountain of Arethusa, one of Ortygia’s most beautiful monuments, reflecting the legend that the nymph Arethusa was turned into a beautiful spring by Artemis to help her escape the pursuit of a crazed lover, before walking back to the ship.
- This excursion involves approximately 2 miles of walking over uneven terrain and cobblestones as well as some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is requested to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Archaeological Park & Sicilian Flavors
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
Leaving Syracuse, drive through the Sicilian countryside into the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea to Casa Bianca Lentini, one of the best farm-to-table agriturismo houses in the region, where you will be warmly welcomed by the Notarbartolo family and treated to an extraordinary meal prepared onsite from entirely locally-sourced products.
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This excursion involves approximately a mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. It is not recommended for those with limited mobility. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Planeta Buonivini Winery
The Planeta family have been making wine on Sicily for 17 generations. Today you will visit one of their newest wineries, opened in 1998 in the Buonivini ("good wines") region in the hills south of Noto.
When you arrive at the winery, a guide will lead you on a leisurely walk through the vineyards, providing a description of the particular terroir of this estate and of the grapes grown here—primarily Nero d'Avola and Moscato di Noto. You will also learn about the estate's organic and sustainable practices, including their innovative "Invisible Winery." Tour the cellar, where the wines are produced, and then join a tasting of four of Planeta's wines and a variety of their olive oils paired with Sicilian mezze—almonds, bruschetta, cheeses, salamis, breads, etc.
- This is a relatively easy excursion, involving less than a half mile of walking and only the steps needed to get on and off the coach. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility. Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes and protection from the sun are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mt. Etna & Benanti Winery
Board your coach for a drive up the winding roads that work their way along the slopes of Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Begin with a drive through the small town of Naxos, which was founded by Greek colonizers in the 8th century B.C., and then pass the town of Giarre and the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana en route. Your destination on Mt. Etna is the Crateri Silvestri area, a collection of inactive craters that originated during a massive eruption in 1892. From here, the views across the Gulf of Catania and vineyards are breathtaking.
After taking time to appreciate the power of this site, continue to the Benanti Winery, Monte Serra Estate, where you will join vintners for a visit of the vineyards and the historic oak barrel room. Next, enjoy a typical Sicilian lunch and sample several of the winery’s finest vintages. It's a delightful experience that will leave you with an even greater understanding and appreciation of Sicilian flavors.
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This excursion includes about half a mile of walking along uneven and sometimes slippery terrain at Mt. Etna; some walking and steps at the winery. Altitude at Mt. Etna is about 6500 feet. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen/hats for protection from the sun. We also recommend you bring a sweater or windproof jacket for this excursion.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ancient Taormina & Sicilian Winery
Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background. A maze of narrow streets, splashed with the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders, Taormina has attracted many civilizations over the centuries. It is home to theaters and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantium, and villas belonging to European aristocracy of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Your exploration of Taormina's historic center begins along the Corso Umberto, where you will see a number of monuments from several eras, before spending some time at Teatro Antico, the Ancient Greek Theater. Built by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans as a gladiatorial arena, it is the second largest theater in Sicily. Because of its size and acoustic quality, it is still in use to host festivals and concerts in the summer.
After taking time to appreciate the power of this site, continue with a drive around the flanks of Mt. Etna to the Gambini Winery, where one of the vintners will lead a tour of the wine cellar and a wine tasting. Next, enjoy a brunch of Sicilian specialties, accompanied by several of the winery’s finest vintages. It's a delightful experience that will leave you with an even greater understanding and appreciation of Sicilian flavors.
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As this excursion involves a walk of about 1.5 miles over rough terrain with several stairways, we advise that you wear sturdy shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shoulders and legs should be covered if entering the Cathedral.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Catania, Street Food, and Fish Market
The port city of Catania, about 30 miles south of Taormina, is Sicily's economic and commercial hub. Its old town in the center of the city, rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1693, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most exuberant late-Baroque architecture to be found anywhere in Europe—particularly the Cathedral and the Palazzo Biscari.
On arrival in Catania, you will walk along the city's main street, passing both of these spectacular buildings. Stop for a sample of arancini, Sicily's emblematic street food of fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Your walk continues to the authentic center of the city: the Mercato del Pesce, Catania's famed street market. As the name suggests, there is an abundance of seafood of every description on sale here, but just about any other sort of food you can imagine is also available—oranges and almonds from nearby orchards, roasted peppers, cured meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads. The sights, sounds, and smells are absolutely exhilarating. You will then stop at a café for a taste a Sicilian-style cannoli - the perfect ending to your experience of Catania's food scene.
- This tour involves approximately 1.25 miles of walking over sometimes uneven cobblestone surfaces. It may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the Cathedral.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Baroque Lecce
The city of Lecce, located in the middle of the heel of Italy's boot, has long been touted as "the Florence of South Italy" because of its abundance of churches and noble palaces and has also been called "the golden city" because of the unique honey color of the local limestone that seems to shimmer if the rays of the sun strike it just so.
Begin at the Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Lecce's main square, where you will see the remains of a 2nd-century Roman Amphitheater large enough to accommodate as many as 20,000 spectators. But as impressive as this ancient site is, it is the Baroque and Rococo architecture of the 16th-18th centuries for which Lecce is known—especially for the ornate and flamboyant style known as "Barocco Leccese.” During your guided tour, you will visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, perhaps the finest example of Lecce's Baroque, with a facade covered in intricately detailed carvings of angels and mythological creatures. Next door to the Basilica is the Palazzo dei Celestini, once a monastery and now used as the Governor's Palace.
Follow your guide through winding alleyways to reach the Piazza Duomo, where Lecce's magnificent Cathedral dominates one of Italy's most beautiful squares. This is also where the Archbishop's Palace is located. The Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, was built between 1659 and 1670 by Giuseppe Zimbalo, who designed it with two façades. The main façade, facing the Archbishop's Palace, is relatively plain, while the façade facing the piazza is an explosion of Baroque, with Lecce's patron saint, Saint Oronzo featured in the middle of a triumphal arch. You will have some time at leisure to explore on your own before returning to Otranto and your ship.
- This is a moderate excursion with considerable walking (as much as 1.5 miles) over some uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable, flat-soled shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun (including a hat) are recommended. Conservative dress (shoulders and knees covered) is requested when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Nardò with Winetasting
The charming town of Nardò is located on the Ionian coast of Puglia, about an hour's drive across the Salento Peninsula from Otranto. Its historic center is a treasure trove of Baroque art and architecture that, although on a smaller scale, rivals that of the more famous Lecce. A guided tour starts at Piazza Salandra, where you are surrounded by 17th-century palaces, and proceeds through the streets of Old Town, pausing along the way to admire especially interesting buildings: the intricate Baroque façade of Chiesa di San Domenico; the one-time fortress of Castello Acquaviva d’Aragona; or the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta.
At some point during the tour, you will stop at one of the palaces for a tasting of Apulian wines, choosing from among the region's bold and full-bodied reds or crisp whites, accompanied by mezze of breads, cheeses, meats, and olives.
- This is a moderate excursion with a total of approximately one mile of walking over cobblestone surfaces and a few steps. We recommend layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Historic Otranto with Winetasting
Otranto came to prominence as a leading port for Roman trade across the Adriatic Sea and further east, and its importance only grew during the Middle Ages, when it served as an outpost of the Byzantine Empire in Italy. Today it is a picturesque coastal town with great beaches and a charming Old Town.
Your guided tour begins with a visit to Otranto's Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata, begun in 1088 and completed about a century later. The Cathedral is known for its magnificent mosaics, especially its intricately inlaid floor, which includes a representation of the Tree of Life, a depiction of human history from the Fall to Salvation, and a timeline of the career of Alexander the Great. The church also houses relics of the city's 800 inhabitants who were martyred when they refused to renounce their faith during the Ottoman invasion of the city in 1480. The nearby Aragonese Castle has a terrace with a panoramic view overlooking the sea, and the Byzantine Church of San Pietro, which dates back to the 9th century, contains well-preserved frescoes from the 10th-12th centuries that are among the finest Byzantine art in southern Italy.
After your tour of historic Otranto, travel a short distance inland to the village of Scorrano, where you will enjoy a private visit to one of the wine estates for which the town is known. Tour the cellar and olive mill, followed by a tasting of four varieties of wine and several oils, served with a selection of charcuterie and cheeses, along with breads produced using the estate's wheat.
- This is a moderate excursion with a total of approximately one and a half miles of walking over a combination of cobblestone and smooth surfaces. We recommend layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Trulli of Alberobello
Trulli—dry-stone structures with conical roofs, erected without mortar—are a defining feature of much of northern Puglia, but they are most closely identified with the village of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to about 1,400 of them.
After a little more than an hour's drive south from Bari, you will arrive at Alberobello and begin your tour in the main square, Piazza del Popolo. Follow your guide through the Monti district, where narrow, winding streets are lined with trulli selling local crafts and where you will find the Church of Saint Anthony, built in the shape of a trullo in 1926. Stop for a visit inside Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo, now a museum with displays of 18th-century furnishings and an exhibit on how trulli were constructed. Your tour continues in the Aia Piccola district, a smaller and quieter area. Along the way you will almost certainly hear how the trulli came to be built without mortar so that they could be easily dismantled to avoid royal taxes assessed on buildings. It was not until 1797 that these feudal dues were lifted from the towns of Puglia, freeing homeowners of the need to periodically dismantle and rebuild their homes.
- This is a moderate excursion requiring a significant amount of standing and walking (approximately 2 miles) over uneven cobblestone surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Art of Making Mozzarella
The area of Puglia south of Bari and centered on the towns of Gioia del Colle and Putignano is a major center of production of mozzarella cheese. This excursion takes you to a traditional Apulian Masseria (farm), where you will see the process of making the cheese from milking the cows to shaping the final product into balls.
As you travel to the Masseria, you pass through countryside populated by grazing animals, farm buildings, and an occasional structure in the unique conical trulli style. On arrival, you will be met by a guide who will give you a tour of the farm, beginning at the barns where the cows or buffalo are kept and ending at the workshop where the cheese is made. A master cheesemaker will demonstrate the process of heating the milk, adding natural rennet to form curds, heating the curds until the are elastic enough to work with, and then kneading and stretching them in hot water to produce the desired texture of fresh mozzarella. You may be invited to help shape the cheese into balls or braids. You will certainly be invited to sample some as you sit down to a snack of the new cheese with a selection of breads and local salamis, accompanied by a glass of wine.
- This is a relatively easy excursion requiring less than a quarter mile of walking over mostly flat surfaces. Dress should be very casual (you are visiting a farm), and insect repellant may be useful, especially around the barns. Driving time to the masseria is 90 minutes each way.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Bari Street Food
Bari, like the rest of the Italian Peninsula, has a rich and varied history, reflecting the influences of the various empires and peoples that have ruled over it, and the city is home to several important monuments reflecting that history. Bari has also long been famous for its robust culture of street food—a fame that has only grown over the past thirty years. This excursion combines a walking tour of the old town (Bari Vecchia) with stops along the way to indulge in the cuisine.
Depart the pier for a scenic drive along Bari's seafront, heading to the city center. Pause along the way for a photo stop at the Swabian Castle built by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II in the 12th century and modified by the Aragonese in the 16th. On arrival in Bari Vecchia, your guide will lead you on a walking tour through open piazzas and narrow alleyways, where you will see historic buildings, including the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Sabino and Bari's iconic Basilica di San Nicola, built in the 11th century to house the relics of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus). All along the way, you will be aware of the food culture of the city, as you walk through Strada Arco Basso, where local women make fresh orecchiette by hand, and as you stop to sample Bari's thick and rich focaccia; panzerotto, sort of a deep-fried mini-calzone; and cremoso dessert.
At the end of the tour, you will have some time at leisure to explore on your own, perhaps ducking into a local gelateria.
- This is a moderate excursion requiring a significant amount of standing and walking (as much as 2 miles) over uneven, cobblestone surfaces, and some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Renaissance Treasures of Urbino
Begin with a drive through the hills of Montefeltro to the very heart of the Marche region and the city of Urbino—birthplace of Raphael, home to one of the most important collections of Renaissance art in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.
Your time in Urbino begins with the magnificent Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, commissioned by Duke Frederico da Montefeltro in 1454 with the intention of building a masterpiece to rival the palaces of any other Renaissance ruler. Visit the courtyard and several of the rooms used by Frederico for state functions and where he welcomed the leading scholars and artists of his day, including Piero della Francesca, Leon Battista Alberti, and Giovanni Santi, Raphael's father. The palace also houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, with works by Piero della Francesca, Titian, and, of course, Raphael.
Following your visit to the Ducal Place, a guided walking tour of the city, includes Piazza della Repubblica, Urbino's central square, Raphael's birthplace, and the Duomo di Urbino, the city's beautiful neoclassical cathedral. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Ancona and your ship.
- This is a moderate excursion requiring a significant amount of standing and walking (approximately 1.5 miles) over uneven but mostly flat surfaces and some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended. Driving time to Urbino is approximately 90 minutes each way.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Medieval Town of Jesi
Jesi, a hill town in the Le Marche about a 45-minute drive from Ancona, is probably best known as the birthplace of the 13th-century Holy Roman Emperor, Fredreick II. It is also, however, an intriguing medieval town in its own right.
Begin your visit to Jesi in the Piazza Federico II, the oldest square in the city, located where a Roman Forum once stood in the center of the medieval city. Within the massive walls that still enclose the old town, you will find Jesi Cathedral, dedicated to the Saint Patron, San Settimio; the Palazzo della Signoria, a fine example of Renaissance architecture; and Palazzo Ricci, dating to the 15th century. Just outside the walls of the town, explore the Palazzo Pianetti, a Rococo palace owned by the town that houses the Pinacoteca Civica, a gallery that includes several masterpieces by the High Renaissance artist, Lorenzo Lotto.
After your tour of Jesi, stop in to a local cantina for a light lunch and a sampling of some of the best wine from the Le Marche region.
- This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven and cobble stone surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
A San Marcello Winery
This excursion into the countryside west of Ancona takes you to a region of le Marche famous for the production of Lacrima di Morro D’Alba wine, and to the boutique winery of Tenuta San Marcello. This small family business emphasizes eco-friendly practices, avoiding herbicides and chemical fertilizers, dry-framing the grapes, harvesting them manually, and processing then quickly to minimize the need for sulfur. This way of making wine, they believe, assures that the end product authentically represents the terroir of the region.
Your tour of the winery is a fully immersive experience, including a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar with an expert guide, an explanation of the "skins contact" fermentation process used here, and a lunch with wine pairings.
- This is a relatively easy excursion, although there is a considerable amount of standing and some steps. Guests must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol. Layered clothing and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Frederik II Museum
Emperor Frederick II (1194-1250) was one of the most remarkable men of the Middle Ages. Born in the city of Jesi, Frederick became King of Sicily, Germany, and Jerusalem, and was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 1220, at the age of 26. This excursion is an exploration of the museum dedicated to him in his hometown.
Established in 2017, the Museo Federico II Stupor Mundi is a state-of-the-art, multimedia experience that guides visitors through Frederick's many interests and accomplishments. Divided into 16 exhibition rooms, each devoted to a different aspect of his life, and each equipped with interactive installations, the museum tells of Frederick's work as a statesman, military strategist, legal reformer, and scholar. A museum docent will provide an introduction to the museum and then allow you to explore on your own, with the aid of an audio-guide.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a local hostaria overlooking Jesi, leisure before returning to Ancona and your ship.
- This is a moderate excursion with considerable walking in the museum, which has many steps and inclines. You will want comfortable shoes and layered clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Mosaics of Ravenna
Ravenna is an ancient city that in the early Middle Ages served as the center of Byzantine power in Italy. The churches built here in the 5th and 6th centuries were collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in large part because of their stunning mosaics. You will visit several of these churches and discover why Dante described them as "a symphony of color."
A short drive brings you to the center of Ravenna, where your guided walking tour begins at the Basilica of San Vitale, one of Ravenna’s greatest monuments. It is a fine example of Byzantine architecture at its most creative, and the beauty and richness of its marbles and the mosaics are simply stunning. After viewing their vivid colors and intricate detailing, you will understand what Dante meant. Nearby, in a small chapel, is the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the daughter of Roman Emperor Theodosius, containing the earliest surviving mosaics in Ravenna, which despite their age remain remarkably colorful— deep blues, moss-green, Roman gold, peacock-blue, and burnt orange.
As you continue your walk, pause briefly at the Tomb of Dante Alighieri, who died in exile in Ravenna in 1321, before reaching the Basilica of Sant ‘Apollinare Nuovo, where both walls are filled with grand mosaics: one depicts a procession of virgins, led by the Three Magi, marching toward Mary and Child on a throne; the other shows a large group of martyrs moving toward an enthroned Christ surrounded by angels.
- This is a moderate excursion, involving substantial walking (a total of approximately two miles) over a mix of flat and cobblestone surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended. Shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Borgo Condé Wine Resort
The wines of Emilia-Romagna are so well known and well regarded that we offer two different excursions from Ravenna focused on them. This one is a visit to the wine resort of Borgo Condé near the village of Fiuma.
Borgo Condé is a luxury resort offering a variety of accommodations on a 270-acre estate nestled among vineyards and olive groves. There is a vineyard on the estate that produces a variety of wines, which are served at the award-winning restaurants on site. Begin with a tour of the winery and the resort, offering a never-ending panorama of views over the lovely rolling hills that surround it. Then sit down to a leisurely meal of authentic Romagna cuisine made with local ingredients and paired with wines at each course.
After your meal, before return to your ship in Ravenna
- This is a relatively easy excursion, although there is a considerable amount of standing and some steps. Guests must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol. Layered clothing and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Brisighella Olive Oil
Brisighella, is a charming medieval town, a member of the consortium of I Borghi più belli d'Italia ("the most beautiful towns in Italy"), and known the world over for its fine olive oil.
Your visit begins with a guided walking tour of this picturesque city situated in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains about midway between Ravenna and Florence. Highlights of your tour will be the Rocca Manfrediana, a 14th-century fortress towering above the city with incredible views of the surrounding countryside; Brisighella's iconic Torre dell’Orologio, a clock tower originally erected in the 13th century and rebuilt in the 19th; and the hilltop Santuario del Monticino.
Following your tour of city, continue to Frantoio Cooperativa Terra di Brisighella, a cooperative olive mill that has produced some of Italy's finest extra virgin olive oil for centuries. This mill, like others in the region, earns the appellation Brisighella DOP, signifying that it conforms to the standards that guarantee its distinctive, slightly spicy flavor. At the end of your visit to the mill, enjoy a tasting of several different oils and a buffet lunch.
This is a moderate excursion with significant walking over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, some of which are steeply inclined. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. You will need sturdy walking shoes, and we recommend layered clothing and protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cà di Sopra Winery
The wines of Emilia-Romagna are so well known and well regarded that we offer two different excursions from Ravenna focused on them. This one is a tour and tasting at a boutique winery in the hills of Marzeno, near Faenza.
Cà di Sopra Winery is a family-owned farm with about 70-acres devoted to vines. The primary grape variety cultivated is the famed Sangiovese, but other varietals include Cabernet, Merlot, Albana, Chardonnay, Trebbiano, and Pinot Bianco. It was only in 2006 that Cà di Sopra switched from selling grapes to bottling their own wines, but they have quickly earned a reputation as a leading artisanal producer of fine wines, focused on terroir-driven, small-batch wines.
Your visit here begins with a tour of the vineyards and the cellar, followed by a simple lunch and a tasting of 4 wines.
- This is a relatively easy excursion, although there is a considerable amount of standing and some steps. Guests must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol. Layered clothing and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Venetian Handicrafts
Venice, like most cities, has a long tradition of artisanal crafts—pottery, woodworking, jewelry making, and so on. But in addition to these traditional crafts, there are two others that are uniquely identified with Venice: mask making and gondola building.
Follow your guide from San Basilio pier along the waterfront to Squero di San Trovaso, one of only two squeri (boatyards where gondolas are made) remaining in the city. During your visit, you will see skilled craftsmen at work, repairing damage and maintaining the gondola's seaworthiness. As you watch, your expert guide will explain the ancient methods being used, which are passed from generation to generation so that these black boats, so central to Venetian history, continue to be made entirely by hand.
As you leave the boatyard, stop for some refreshment at the Gelateria Da Nico and sample their famous Gianduiotto, a mixture of chocolate and hazelnut creams served in a tall glass. Then enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Dorsoduro and Santa Croce districts to visit a mask-maker's atelier. You will see the variety of masks for which Venice is known, from classic Bauta and Moretta to the long-nosed Plague Doctor design, and a master artisan will give a brief history of the masks, explaining their roles at Carnivale and in the theater. Observe as craftsmen demonstrate making a mask of papier-mâché and decorating it.
- This is a moderate to challenging excursion, involving a total of approximately 2.5 miles of walking over uneven surfaces, with many steps as you cross a number of bridges. It is not for those with limited mobility. As always, we recommend comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing and protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Cannaregio District and Jewish Ghetto
Venice's Cannaregio district, a less frequently visited area of the city north of the Grand Canal, is an authentic neighborhood of quiet streets and charming squares, removed from the busier and more crowded areas around St. Mark's Square.
Your experience of Cannaregio begins in the Jewish Ghetto, Europe's first ghetto, established in 1516 when the city's Jews were required to live within its confines. Curfews were imposed, and the ghetto was sealed at night. Its central square, the Campo di Ghetto Nuovo, is surrounded by historic synagogues, some of which were founded in the 16th century and are still in use. Visit inside a few of the synagogues and spend some time in the Jewish Museum of Venice before joining your guide for a walking tour of Cannaregio district, passing by landmarks that include the Scuola Grande della Misericordia and the Madonna dell’Orto Church before pausing at the end of the tour at a local taverna (bacaro) to enjoy a snack of wine and cicchetti (Venetian small plates).
Board a private motor launch for a cruise through the canals and the lagoon circumnavigating the entire city. Pass by the Arsenale, St. Mark’s Basin, and Canale della Giudecca, among other monuments, as you gain a new perspective on Venice from the water.
- This is a more challenging excursion than many, involving a total of approximately 2.5 miles of walking over uneven surfaces, with many steps as you cross bridges and climb the stairs within the synagogues. Not for those with limited mobility.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Prosecco Hills
This full-day tour begins with a wonderfully scenic drive through rolling hills, quaint villages, and wine-producing estates to reach the town of Valdobbiadene, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Prosecco Hills, known for lush vineyards, historic wineries, and stunning landscapes.
On arrival in Valdobbiadene, continue to one of the nearby Prosecco wineries, where you learn about the region's unique terroir and about the special qualities of the Glera grape, before touring the vineyards and the cellars. See where the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks (rather than in the bottle, as with Champagne), giving Prosecco its characteristic effervescence. The tour will be followed by a tasting of different styles of Prosecco—Brut, Dry, and Extra Dry—accompanied by bread and snacks. Leaving the winery, travel to Salis Ristorante Enoteca with spectacular views over the nearby town of Santo Stefano, where you will be served a lunch of typical foods of the Veneto.
- This is a relatively easy excursion with a total of less than a mile of walking over mostly flat terrain with some uneven surfaces. Note that the travel time is about 90 minutes each way.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Secret Gardens of Venice
When one thinks of Venice, gardens are not likely to come to mind. We think of Venice as a city of stone with very little green space. The truth, however, is that gardening has a long history in Venice, as owners of palaces looked to create islands of serenity amid the bustle of urban life. This tour showcases two of the city's finest.
Begin with a ride by private water taxi to Nani Bernardo Palace. Designed by architect Allesandro Vittoria on commission from the Bernardo family, the palace was built in the middle of the 16th century as a typical Renaissance palazzo with an entrance from the Grand Canal. In the 18th-century, a garden was added to the palace by demolishing a series of houses to create one of Venice's largest private green spaces. It remains today largely as it was then, featuring centuries-old plants, including Venice's tallest palm tree.
Board another water taxi to travel to the historic Palazzo Grimani ai Servi, which has been converted to an upscale restaurant. The hallway of the palazzo opens onto a tripartite garden in a 16th-century style, with a paved courtyard, a circular boxwood labyrinth enclosing seasonal blooms of roses and peonies arranged around a classic fountain. Tall pomegranate and olive trees surround the space, protecting it from the outside world. Before leaving this site, enjoy an aperitif of prosecco and assorted sandwiches.
This is a moderate excursion involving a total of approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven cobblestone surfaces. Guests also need to be able to negotiate getting into and out of water taxis. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, an underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Decks
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included Features:
- A program of onboard enrichment provided by two food and wine experts: Italian food writer Maureen Fant and wine expert and sommelier Laetitia Ouspointour
- Italian cuisine aboard prepared by special guest chef Denny Imbroisi.
- Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Valletta to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Comprehensive 8-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bougainville, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
- One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
- Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Venice at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
Not included:
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Notes:
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis
Program is subject to change without notice
Quintessential Collection
PONANT Quintessential Collection voyages are designed for travelers who want to engage with the world in order to understand it.
In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, these voyages include lectures and performances aboard ship by world class experts and musicians and one or two exceptional activities ashore that encourage guests to embrace the sights and sounds, tastes and smells of the local culture. They also offer pre- or post-cruise stay with excursions relevant to the theme. We believe that travel approached in this way has the power ato transform us and to make us better citizens of the world.
Special Guest Speaker
On our departures in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, we are joined by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts who will provide an insightful English-language lecture series that enhances your experience with valuable context and new perspectives. From enriching talks to casual conversations on board, their in-depth knowledge will bring you deeper into the history, culture, and natural world of your destination.
Timeless
With one included excursion per day and per guest*, and the presence of expert lecturers on board, Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation. A refined way to journey far from the everyday, both in mind and in spirit.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, or aboard local vessels.
- Your experts on board: The dedicated excursion team and one or more guest lecturers.
- Children: Children from one year of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on board Le Commandant Charcot).
*Excluding Paul Gauguin
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Gastronomy
On board, renowned guest chefs – often at the helm of Michelin-starred restaurants – share their passion through exquisite menus and refined food and wine pairings. During two exclusive gala dinners specially designed for your cruise, these culinary masters will awaken your senses and elevate each moment. A live cooking demonstration and a fine wine tasting will complete this unforgettable experience, celebrating the very best of taste and the art of living.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
MALTESE HIGHLIGHTS (2 NIGHTS)
This specially designed program is an opportunity to get a sense of the extraordinarily rich history of this small island nation in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Learn about the importance of Malta as a crossroads of trade and as the headquarters of the Knights of St. John, as well as something of the island's Neolithic past as preserved in the prehistoric megaliths of Hagar Qim. Enjoy all of this while staying at one of the world's truly grand hotels.
Day 1 – Valletta, Malta
On arrival at the Malta International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the Phoenicia Malta hotel (or similar), your home for the next two nights. Official check-in time is 3:00 p.m. A local representative will be present at a hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and answer any questions you may have.
Join your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception this evening. Dinner is independent and at your leisure.
Day 2 – Valletta
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before joining a guided walking tour of Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a stroll to the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views over the Grand Harbor. Your visit to the extraordinary interior of the 16th-century Co-Cathedral of St. John affords the opportunity to see Caravaggio’s massive masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist. And during your tour of the Palace of the Grand Master, which serves today as the office of the president of Malta, you will see the richly decorated state rooms and tapestry chamber.
The balance of the day is at leisure, with independent lunch and dinner.
Day 3 - Valletta | Embarkation
After breakfast and check out of the hotel, drive inland to the city of Mdina, the capital of Malta until the Knights of St. John moved it to Valletta in the 16th century. Your walking tour includes the stunning Baroque Cathedral of St. Paul, built on the site where it is said Paul converted the Roman governor to Christianity in the months following his shipwreck on the island in the year 60. From Mdina, drive to the a nearby winery for a tasting of some of Malta's finest wines before stopping at a historic local restaurant for a lunch of traditional Maltese specialties.
After lunch, drive to the southern coast of the island to visit the Hagar Qim Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating to 3600 BC. Located on a hilltop overlooking the sea, Hagar Qim is among the earliest free-standing stone buildings in the world. Following your guided tour of this extraordinary site, transfer to the pier to embark your ship.
Your hotel:
The Phoenicia Malta, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is Malta’s landmark hotel with a storied history spanning over 60 years. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel is situated in an ideal location just outside the walled city of Valletta and its 16th-century bastions. From the hotel’s front door, the historic wonders of Valletta, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, are all within easy walking distance. The hotel boasts 136 rooms and suites combining old-world elegance and a fresh style. Its modern conveniences ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay.
Your program includes:
- 2 nights at The Phoenicia Malta (or similar), including breakfast
- Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day
- Transfer and luggage handling to the pier on embarkation day
- Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1
- Breakfast on days 2 and 3
- Lunch on Day 3
- Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
- Local English-speaking guide
- Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
- Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day
- Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 60 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.
Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are largely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
The duration of the visits is given as a guide only, and the order of the visits may change.
This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
Program is offered on a space available basis.
Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
The Phoenicia Malta
The Mall
Floriana FRN1478
Malta
Telephone: +356.2122.5241
Total : AU$1,960
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Baroque Town of Noto
Noto has origins in the ancient past, having been founded in the 5th century B.C. during the period of Greek colonization, but it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1693. The subsequent rebuilding of the city according to 18th-century ideas of architectural design and town planning has made Noto the quintessential example of Sicilian Baroque. The town is built on terraces connected by monumental flights of steps and is filled with churches and palaces with varying degrees of embellishment but sharing a common architectural theme.
Upon arrival, walk across the Public Gardens, where busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style are on display. The centrally located and resplendent Cathedral has been restored following the earthquake of 1990. You will also visit other impressive buildings, including the Churches of St. Domenico and St. Charles, the Ducezio Palace, and Villadorata Palace. Noto was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and the United Nations provides financial support for the reconstruction of the town’s monuments.
At the end of your walking tour of this beautiful town, stop at a local bar specializing in gelato and sorbet, where you will sample some of the treats for which Noto is famous – especially a granita with brioche and coffee.
- This excursion involves about 1 mile of walking over mostly easy terrain, with steps to enter churches. Comfortable shoes and using sunscreen/hats for sun protection is recommended. Appropriate dress is requested to enter churches (shoulders/knees covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walking Tour of Ortygia Island
Ortygia, a tiny island just off the coast, is the original center of the ancient city of Syracuse. Meet your guide at the pier and begin your exploration on foot of this tangle of narrow streets that open onto splendid piazzas.
At the Piazza Pancali discover the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Next, walk through the food market and delight in the sounds and smells as you discover a vast selection of the region’s produce, meats, seafood, and cheeses.
Walk through the Corso Matteotti and Archimedes Square en route to the stunning Piazza del Duomo. As the name suggests, this is the site of the Cathedral (Duomo) of Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as is the entire city. Originally built in the 5th century B.C. as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and later turned into a Christian Basilica, it features a Baroque façade, constructed during the restoration following the 1693 earthquake.
End at the Fountain of Arethusa, one of Ortygia’s most beautiful monuments, reflecting the legend that the nymph Arethusa was turned into a beautiful spring by Artemis to help her escape the pursuit of a crazed lover, before walking back to the ship.
- This excursion involves approximately 2 miles of walking over uneven terrain and cobblestones as well as some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is requested to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Archaeological Park & Sicilian Flavors
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
Leaving Syracuse, drive through the Sicilian countryside into the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea to Casa Bianca Lentini, one of the best farm-to-table agriturismo houses in the region, where you will be warmly welcomed by the Notarbartolo family and treated to an extraordinary meal prepared onsite from entirely locally-sourced products.
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This excursion involves approximately a mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. It is not recommended for those with limited mobility. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Planeta Buonivini Winery
The Planeta family have been making wine on Sicily for 17 generations. Today you will visit one of their newest wineries, opened in 1998 in the Buonivini ("good wines") region in the hills south of Noto.
When you arrive at the winery, a guide will lead you on a leisurely walk through the vineyards, providing a description of the particular terroir of this estate and of the grapes grown here—primarily Nero d'Avola and Moscato di Noto. You will also learn about the estate's organic and sustainable practices, including their innovative "Invisible Winery." Tour the cellar, where the wines are produced, and then join a tasting of four of Planeta's wines and a variety of their olive oils paired with Sicilian mezze—almonds, bruschetta, cheeses, salamis, breads, etc.
- This is a relatively easy excursion, involving less than a half mile of walking and only the steps needed to get on and off the coach. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility. Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes and protection from the sun are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mt. Etna & Benanti Winery
Board your coach for a drive up the winding roads that work their way along the slopes of Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Begin with a drive through the small town of Naxos, which was founded by Greek colonizers in the 8th century B.C., and then pass the town of Giarre and the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana en route. Your destination on Mt. Etna is the Crateri Silvestri area, a collection of inactive craters that originated during a massive eruption in 1892. From here, the views across the Gulf of Catania and vineyards are breathtaking.
After taking time to appreciate the power of this site, continue to the Benanti Winery, Monte Serra Estate, where you will join vintners for a visit of the vineyards and the historic oak barrel room. Next, enjoy a typical Sicilian lunch and sample several of the winery’s finest vintages. It's a delightful experience that will leave you with an even greater understanding and appreciation of Sicilian flavors.
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This excursion includes about half a mile of walking along uneven and sometimes slippery terrain at Mt. Etna; some walking and steps at the winery. Altitude at Mt. Etna is about 6500 feet. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen/hats for protection from the sun. We also recommend you bring a sweater or windproof jacket for this excursion.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ancient Taormina & Sicilian Winery
Taormina clings to the side of Mount Tauro, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella and a snow-capped Etna in the background. A maze of narrow streets, splashed with the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders, Taormina has attracted many civilizations over the centuries. It is home to theaters and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of Byzantium, and villas belonging to European aristocracy of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Your exploration of Taormina's historic center begins along the Corso Umberto, where you will see a number of monuments from several eras, before spending some time at Teatro Antico, the Ancient Greek Theater. Built by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans as a gladiatorial arena, it is the second largest theater in Sicily. Because of its size and acoustic quality, it is still in use to host festivals and concerts in the summer.
After taking time to appreciate the power of this site, continue with a drive around the flanks of Mt. Etna to the Gambini Winery, where one of the vintners will lead a tour of the wine cellar and a wine tasting. Next, enjoy a brunch of Sicilian specialties, accompanied by several of the winery’s finest vintages. It's a delightful experience that will leave you with an even greater understanding and appreciation of Sicilian flavors.
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As this excursion involves a walk of about 1.5 miles over rough terrain with several stairways, we advise that you wear sturdy shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shoulders and legs should be covered if entering the Cathedral.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Catania, Street Food, and Fish Market
The port city of Catania, about 30 miles south of Taormina, is Sicily's economic and commercial hub. Its old town in the center of the city, rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1693, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most exuberant late-Baroque architecture to be found anywhere in Europe—particularly the Cathedral and the Palazzo Biscari.
On arrival in Catania, you will walk along the city's main street, passing both of these spectacular buildings. Stop for a sample of arancini, Sicily's emblematic street food of fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Your walk continues to the authentic center of the city: the Mercato del Pesce, Catania's famed street market. As the name suggests, there is an abundance of seafood of every description on sale here, but just about any other sort of food you can imagine is also available—oranges and almonds from nearby orchards, roasted peppers, cured meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads. The sights, sounds, and smells are absolutely exhilarating. You will then stop at a café for a taste a Sicilian-style cannoli - the perfect ending to your experience of Catania's food scene.
- This tour involves approximately 1.25 miles of walking over sometimes uneven cobblestone surfaces. It may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the Cathedral.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Baroque Lecce
The city of Lecce, located in the middle of the heel of Italy's boot, has long been touted as "the Florence of South Italy" because of its abundance of churches and noble palaces and has also been called "the golden city" because of the unique honey color of the local limestone that seems to shimmer if the rays of the sun strike it just so.
Begin at the Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Lecce's main square, where you will see the remains of a 2nd-century Roman Amphitheater large enough to accommodate as many as 20,000 spectators. But as impressive as this ancient site is, it is the Baroque and Rococo architecture of the 16th-18th centuries for which Lecce is known—especially for the ornate and flamboyant style known as "Barocco Leccese.” During your guided tour, you will visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, perhaps the finest example of Lecce's Baroque, with a facade covered in intricately detailed carvings of angels and mythological creatures. Next door to the Basilica is the Palazzo dei Celestini, once a monastery and now used as the Governor's Palace.
Follow your guide through winding alleyways to reach the Piazza Duomo, where Lecce's magnificent Cathedral dominates one of Italy's most beautiful squares. This is also where the Archbishop's Palace is located. The Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, was built between 1659 and 1670 by Giuseppe Zimbalo, who designed it with two façades. The main façade, facing the Archbishop's Palace, is relatively plain, while the façade facing the piazza is an explosion of Baroque, with Lecce's patron saint, Saint Oronzo featured in the middle of a triumphal arch. You will have some time at leisure to explore on your own before returning to Otranto and your ship.
- This is a moderate excursion with considerable walking (as much as 1.5 miles) over some uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable, flat-soled shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun (including a hat) are recommended. Conservative dress (shoulders and knees covered) is requested when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Nardò with Winetasting
The charming town of Nardò is located on the Ionian coast of Puglia, about an hour's drive across the Salento Peninsula from Otranto. Its historic center is a treasure trove of Baroque art and architecture that, although on a smaller scale, rivals that of the more famous Lecce. A guided tour starts at Piazza Salandra, where you are surrounded by 17th-century palaces, and proceeds through the streets of Old Town, pausing along the way to admire especially interesting buildings: the intricate Baroque façade of Chiesa di San Domenico; the one-time fortress of Castello Acquaviva d’Aragona; or the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta.
At some point during the tour, you will stop at one of the palaces for a tasting of Apulian wines, choosing from among the region's bold and full-bodied reds or crisp whites, accompanied by mezze of breads, cheeses, meats, and olives.
- This is a moderate excursion with a total of approximately one mile of walking over cobblestone surfaces and a few steps. We recommend layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Historic Otranto with Winetasting
Otranto came to prominence as a leading port for Roman trade across the Adriatic Sea and further east, and its importance only grew during the Middle Ages, when it served as an outpost of the Byzantine Empire in Italy. Today it is a picturesque coastal town with great beaches and a charming Old Town.
Your guided tour begins with a visit to Otranto's Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata, begun in 1088 and completed about a century later. The Cathedral is known for its magnificent mosaics, especially its intricately inlaid floor, which includes a representation of the Tree of Life, a depiction of human history from the Fall to Salvation, and a timeline of the career of Alexander the Great. The church also houses relics of the city's 800 inhabitants who were martyred when they refused to renounce their faith during the Ottoman invasion of the city in 1480. The nearby Aragonese Castle has a terrace with a panoramic view overlooking the sea, and the Byzantine Church of San Pietro, which dates back to the 9th century, contains well-preserved frescoes from the 10th-12th centuries that are among the finest Byzantine art in southern Italy.
After your tour of historic Otranto, travel a short distance inland to the village of Scorrano, where you will enjoy a private visit to one of the wine estates for which the town is known. Tour the cellar and olive mill, followed by a tasting of four varieties of wine and several oils, served with a selection of charcuterie and cheeses, along with breads produced using the estate's wheat.
- This is a moderate excursion with a total of approximately one and a half miles of walking over a combination of cobblestone and smooth surfaces. We recommend layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Trulli of Alberobello
Trulli—dry-stone structures with conical roofs, erected without mortar—are a defining feature of much of northern Puglia, but they are most closely identified with the village of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to about 1,400 of them.
After a little more than an hour's drive south from Bari, you will arrive at Alberobello and begin your tour in the main square, Piazza del Popolo. Follow your guide through the Monti district, where narrow, winding streets are lined with trulli selling local crafts and where you will find the Church of Saint Anthony, built in the shape of a trullo in 1926. Stop for a visit inside Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo, now a museum with displays of 18th-century furnishings and an exhibit on how trulli were constructed. Your tour continues in the Aia Piccola district, a smaller and quieter area. Along the way you will almost certainly hear how the trulli came to be built without mortar so that they could be easily dismantled to avoid royal taxes assessed on buildings. It was not until 1797 that these feudal dues were lifted from the towns of Puglia, freeing homeowners of the need to periodically dismantle and rebuild their homes.
- This is a moderate excursion requiring a significant amount of standing and walking (approximately 2 miles) over uneven cobblestone surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Art of Making Mozzarella
The area of Puglia south of Bari and centered on the towns of Gioia del Colle and Putignano is a major center of production of mozzarella cheese. This excursion takes you to a traditional Apulian Masseria (farm), where you will see the process of making the cheese from milking the cows to shaping the final product into balls.
As you travel to the Masseria, you pass through countryside populated by grazing animals, farm buildings, and an occasional structure in the unique conical trulli style. On arrival, you will be met by a guide who will give you a tour of the farm, beginning at the barns where the cows or buffalo are kept and ending at the workshop where the cheese is made. A master cheesemaker will demonstrate the process of heating the milk, adding natural rennet to form curds, heating the curds until the are elastic enough to work with, and then kneading and stretching them in hot water to produce the desired texture of fresh mozzarella. You may be invited to help shape the cheese into balls or braids. You will certainly be invited to sample some as you sit down to a snack of the new cheese with a selection of breads and local salamis, accompanied by a glass of wine.
- This is a relatively easy excursion requiring less than a quarter mile of walking over mostly flat surfaces. Dress should be very casual (you are visiting a farm), and insect repellant may be useful, especially around the barns. Driving time to the masseria is 90 minutes each way.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Bari Street Food
Bari, like the rest of the Italian Peninsula, has a rich and varied history, reflecting the influences of the various empires and peoples that have ruled over it, and the city is home to several important monuments reflecting that history. Bari has also long been famous for its robust culture of street food—a fame that has only grown over the past thirty years. This excursion combines a walking tour of the old town (Bari Vecchia) with stops along the way to indulge in the cuisine.
Depart the pier for a scenic drive along Bari's seafront, heading to the city center. Pause along the way for a photo stop at the Swabian Castle built by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II in the 12th century and modified by the Aragonese in the 16th. On arrival in Bari Vecchia, your guide will lead you on a walking tour through open piazzas and narrow alleyways, where you will see historic buildings, including the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Sabino and Bari's iconic Basilica di San Nicola, built in the 11th century to house the relics of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus). All along the way, you will be aware of the food culture of the city, as you walk through Strada Arco Basso, where local women make fresh orecchiette by hand, and as you stop to sample Bari's thick and rich focaccia; panzerotto, sort of a deep-fried mini-calzone; and cremoso dessert.
At the end of the tour, you will have some time at leisure to explore on your own, perhaps ducking into a local gelateria.
- This is a moderate excursion requiring a significant amount of standing and walking (as much as 2 miles) over uneven, cobblestone surfaces, and some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Renaissance Treasures of Urbino
Begin with a drive through the hills of Montefeltro to the very heart of the Marche region and the city of Urbino—birthplace of Raphael, home to one of the most important collections of Renaissance art in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.
Your time in Urbino begins with the magnificent Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, commissioned by Duke Frederico da Montefeltro in 1454 with the intention of building a masterpiece to rival the palaces of any other Renaissance ruler. Visit the courtyard and several of the rooms used by Frederico for state functions and where he welcomed the leading scholars and artists of his day, including Piero della Francesca, Leon Battista Alberti, and Giovanni Santi, Raphael's father. The palace also houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, with works by Piero della Francesca, Titian, and, of course, Raphael.
Following your visit to the Ducal Place, a guided walking tour of the city, includes Piazza della Repubblica, Urbino's central square, Raphael's birthplace, and the Duomo di Urbino, the city's beautiful neoclassical cathedral. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Ancona and your ship.
- This is a moderate excursion requiring a significant amount of standing and walking (approximately 1.5 miles) over uneven but mostly flat surfaces and some steps. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended. Driving time to Urbino is approximately 90 minutes each way.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Medieval Town of Jesi
Jesi, a hill town in the Le Marche about a 45-minute drive from Ancona, is probably best known as the birthplace of the 13th-century Holy Roman Emperor, Fredreick II. It is also, however, an intriguing medieval town in its own right.
Begin your visit to Jesi in the Piazza Federico II, the oldest square in the city, located where a Roman Forum once stood in the center of the medieval city. Within the massive walls that still enclose the old town, you will find Jesi Cathedral, dedicated to the Saint Patron, San Settimio; the Palazzo della Signoria, a fine example of Renaissance architecture; and Palazzo Ricci, dating to the 15th century. Just outside the walls of the town, explore the Palazzo Pianetti, a Rococo palace owned by the town that houses the Pinacoteca Civica, a gallery that includes several masterpieces by the High Renaissance artist, Lorenzo Lotto.
After your tour of Jesi, stop in to a local cantina for a light lunch and a sampling of some of the best wine from the Le Marche region.
- This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven and cobble stone surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
A San Marcello Winery
This excursion into the countryside west of Ancona takes you to a region of le Marche famous for the production of Lacrima di Morro D’Alba wine, and to the boutique winery of Tenuta San Marcello. This small family business emphasizes eco-friendly practices, avoiding herbicides and chemical fertilizers, dry-framing the grapes, harvesting them manually, and processing then quickly to minimize the need for sulfur. This way of making wine, they believe, assures that the end product authentically represents the terroir of the region.
Your tour of the winery is a fully immersive experience, including a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar with an expert guide, an explanation of the "skins contact" fermentation process used here, and a lunch with wine pairings.
- This is a relatively easy excursion, although there is a considerable amount of standing and some steps. Guests must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol. Layered clothing and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Frederik II Museum
Emperor Frederick II (1194-1250) was one of the most remarkable men of the Middle Ages. Born in the city of Jesi, Frederick became King of Sicily, Germany, and Jerusalem, and was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 1220, at the age of 26. This excursion is an exploration of the museum dedicated to him in his hometown.
Established in 2017, the Museo Federico II Stupor Mundi is a state-of-the-art, multimedia experience that guides visitors through Frederick's many interests and accomplishments. Divided into 16 exhibition rooms, each devoted to a different aspect of his life, and each equipped with interactive installations, the museum tells of Frederick's work as a statesman, military strategist, legal reformer, and scholar. A museum docent will provide an introduction to the museum and then allow you to explore on your own, with the aid of an audio-guide.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a local hostaria overlooking Jesi, leisure before returning to Ancona and your ship.
- This is a moderate excursion with considerable walking in the museum, which has many steps and inclines. You will want comfortable shoes and layered clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Mosaics of Ravenna
Ravenna is an ancient city that in the early Middle Ages served as the center of Byzantine power in Italy. The churches built here in the 5th and 6th centuries were collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in large part because of their stunning mosaics. You will visit several of these churches and discover why Dante described them as "a symphony of color."
A short drive brings you to the center of Ravenna, where your guided walking tour begins at the Basilica of San Vitale, one of Ravenna’s greatest monuments. It is a fine example of Byzantine architecture at its most creative, and the beauty and richness of its marbles and the mosaics are simply stunning. After viewing their vivid colors and intricate detailing, you will understand what Dante meant. Nearby, in a small chapel, is the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the daughter of Roman Emperor Theodosius, containing the earliest surviving mosaics in Ravenna, which despite their age remain remarkably colorful— deep blues, moss-green, Roman gold, peacock-blue, and burnt orange.
As you continue your walk, pause briefly at the Tomb of Dante Alighieri, who died in exile in Ravenna in 1321, before reaching the Basilica of Sant ‘Apollinare Nuovo, where both walls are filled with grand mosaics: one depicts a procession of virgins, led by the Three Magi, marching toward Mary and Child on a throne; the other shows a large group of martyrs moving toward an enthroned Christ surrounded by angels.
- This is a moderate excursion, involving substantial walking (a total of approximately two miles) over a mix of flat and cobblestone surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended. Shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting churches.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Borgo Condé Wine Resort
The wines of Emilia-Romagna are so well known and well regarded that we offer two different excursions from Ravenna focused on them. This one is a visit to the wine resort of Borgo Condé near the village of Fiuma.
Borgo Condé is a luxury resort offering a variety of accommodations on a 270-acre estate nestled among vineyards and olive groves. There is a vineyard on the estate that produces a variety of wines, which are served at the award-winning restaurants on site. Begin with a tour of the winery and the resort, offering a never-ending panorama of views over the lovely rolling hills that surround it. Then sit down to a leisurely meal of authentic Romagna cuisine made with local ingredients and paired with wines at each course.
After your meal, before return to your ship in Ravenna
- This is a relatively easy excursion, although there is a considerable amount of standing and some steps. Guests must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol. Layered clothing and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Brisighella Olive Oil
Brisighella, is a charming medieval town, a member of the consortium of I Borghi più belli d'Italia ("the most beautiful towns in Italy"), and known the world over for its fine olive oil.
Your visit begins with a guided walking tour of this picturesque city situated in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains about midway between Ravenna and Florence. Highlights of your tour will be the Rocca Manfrediana, a 14th-century fortress towering above the city with incredible views of the surrounding countryside; Brisighella's iconic Torre dell’Orologio, a clock tower originally erected in the 13th century and rebuilt in the 19th; and the hilltop Santuario del Monticino.
Following your tour of city, continue to Frantoio Cooperativa Terra di Brisighella, a cooperative olive mill that has produced some of Italy's finest extra virgin olive oil for centuries. This mill, like others in the region, earns the appellation Brisighella DOP, signifying that it conforms to the standards that guarantee its distinctive, slightly spicy flavor. At the end of your visit to the mill, enjoy a tasting of several different oils and a buffet lunch.
This is a moderate excursion with significant walking over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, some of which are steeply inclined. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. You will need sturdy walking shoes, and we recommend layered clothing and protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cà di Sopra Winery
The wines of Emilia-Romagna are so well known and well regarded that we offer two different excursions from Ravenna focused on them. This one is a tour and tasting at a boutique winery in the hills of Marzeno, near Faenza.
Cà di Sopra Winery is a family-owned farm with about 70-acres devoted to vines. The primary grape variety cultivated is the famed Sangiovese, but other varietals include Cabernet, Merlot, Albana, Chardonnay, Trebbiano, and Pinot Bianco. It was only in 2006 that Cà di Sopra switched from selling grapes to bottling their own wines, but they have quickly earned a reputation as a leading artisanal producer of fine wines, focused on terroir-driven, small-batch wines.
Your visit here begins with a tour of the vineyards and the cellar, followed by a simple lunch and a tasting of 4 wines.
- This is a relatively easy excursion, although there is a considerable amount of standing and some steps. Guests must be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol. Layered clothing and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Venetian Handicrafts
Venice, like most cities, has a long tradition of artisanal crafts—pottery, woodworking, jewelry making, and so on. But in addition to these traditional crafts, there are two others that are uniquely identified with Venice: mask making and gondola building.
Follow your guide from San Basilio pier along the waterfront to Squero di San Trovaso, one of only two squeri (boatyards where gondolas are made) remaining in the city. During your visit, you will see skilled craftsmen at work, repairing damage and maintaining the gondola's seaworthiness. As you watch, your expert guide will explain the ancient methods being used, which are passed from generation to generation so that these black boats, so central to Venetian history, continue to be made entirely by hand.
As you leave the boatyard, stop for some refreshment at the Gelateria Da Nico and sample their famous Gianduiotto, a mixture of chocolate and hazelnut creams served in a tall glass. Then enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Dorsoduro and Santa Croce districts to visit a mask-maker's atelier. You will see the variety of masks for which Venice is known, from classic Bauta and Moretta to the long-nosed Plague Doctor design, and a master artisan will give a brief history of the masks, explaining their roles at Carnivale and in the theater. Observe as craftsmen demonstrate making a mask of papier-mâché and decorating it.
- This is a moderate to challenging excursion, involving a total of approximately 2.5 miles of walking over uneven surfaces, with many steps as you cross a number of bridges. It is not for those with limited mobility. As always, we recommend comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing and protection from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Cannaregio District and Jewish Ghetto
Venice's Cannaregio district, a less frequently visited area of the city north of the Grand Canal, is an authentic neighborhood of quiet streets and charming squares, removed from the busier and more crowded areas around St. Mark's Square.
Your experience of Cannaregio begins in the Jewish Ghetto, Europe's first ghetto, established in 1516 when the city's Jews were required to live within its confines. Curfews were imposed, and the ghetto was sealed at night. Its central square, the Campo di Ghetto Nuovo, is surrounded by historic synagogues, some of which were founded in the 16th century and are still in use. Visit inside a few of the synagogues and spend some time in the Jewish Museum of Venice before joining your guide for a walking tour of Cannaregio district, passing by landmarks that include the Scuola Grande della Misericordia and the Madonna dell’Orto Church before pausing at the end of the tour at a local taverna (bacaro) to enjoy a snack of wine and cicchetti (Venetian small plates).
Board a private motor launch for a cruise through the canals and the lagoon circumnavigating the entire city. Pass by the Arsenale, St. Mark’s Basin, and Canale della Giudecca, among other monuments, as you gain a new perspective on Venice from the water.
- This is a more challenging excursion than many, involving a total of approximately 2.5 miles of walking over uneven surfaces, with many steps as you cross bridges and climb the stairs within the synagogues. Not for those with limited mobility.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Prosecco Hills
This full-day tour begins with a wonderfully scenic drive through rolling hills, quaint villages, and wine-producing estates to reach the town of Valdobbiadene, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Prosecco Hills, known for lush vineyards, historic wineries, and stunning landscapes.
On arrival in Valdobbiadene, continue to one of the nearby Prosecco wineries, where you learn about the region's unique terroir and about the special qualities of the Glera grape, before touring the vineyards and the cellars. See where the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks (rather than in the bottle, as with Champagne), giving Prosecco its characteristic effervescence. The tour will be followed by a tasting of different styles of Prosecco—Brut, Dry, and Extra Dry—accompanied by bread and snacks. Leaving the winery, travel to Salis Ristorante Enoteca with spectacular views over the nearby town of Santo Stefano, where you will be served a lunch of typical foods of the Veneto.
- This is a relatively easy excursion with a total of less than a mile of walking over mostly flat terrain with some uneven surfaces. Note that the travel time is about 90 minutes each way.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Secret Gardens of Venice
When one thinks of Venice, gardens are not likely to come to mind. We think of Venice as a city of stone with very little green space. The truth, however, is that gardening has a long history in Venice, as owners of palaces looked to create islands of serenity amid the bustle of urban life. This tour showcases two of the city's finest.
Begin with a ride by private water taxi to Nani Bernardo Palace. Designed by architect Allesandro Vittoria on commission from the Bernardo family, the palace was built in the middle of the 16th century as a typical Renaissance palazzo with an entrance from the Grand Canal. In the 18th-century, a garden was added to the palace by demolishing a series of houses to create one of Venice's largest private green spaces. It remains today largely as it was then, featuring centuries-old plants, including Venice's tallest palm tree.
Board another water taxi to travel to the historic Palazzo Grimani ai Servi, which has been converted to an upscale restaurant. The hallway of the palazzo opens onto a tripartite garden in a 16th-century style, with a paved courtyard, a circular boxwood labyrinth enclosing seasonal blooms of roses and peonies arranged around a classic fountain. Tall pomegranate and olive trees surround the space, protecting it from the outside world. Before leaving this site, enjoy an aperitif of prosecco and assorted sandwiches.
This is a moderate excursion involving a total of approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven cobblestone surfaces. Guests also need to be able to negotiate getting into and out of water taxis. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection are recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
THE FOOD AND WINE OF LA SERENISSIMA (2 NIGHTS)
This specially-curated post-cruise program is designed to extend your experience of the cuisines of Sicily and the Italian Adriatic to include the very special culinary traditions of Venice, 'the most serene republic'. On day one, explore the food and wine of two of the Venetian Lagoon's many islands, and on the following day, prepare your own meal with guidance from professional chefs—the perfect ending to your pursuit of epicurean delights.
Day 1 – Venice | Cruising the Lagoon
After breakfast aboard, disembark Le Bougainville and meet your guide, who will lead you on a leisurely cruise aboard a private motor-launch through the Venetian Lagoon to discover some of the more than 40 islands that share this large salt-water lake with the city itself. Your first stop will be on the island of Mazzorbo to tour the Venissa Wine Resort, home to a medieval walled vineyard that cultivates the rare Dorona grape, found only in the region around Venice. Learn about the history of this grape and this vineyard and enjoy a tasting of two wines from the most recent vintage.
After the tasting, continue your cruise as you sail to the tiny island of Burano, known for the brightly colored houses that line its cobblestone streets and for the fine lace that is produced here. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore on your own before sitting down to a lunch of local specialties at the award-winning Trattoria da Romano, known for its seafood and risotto. Return to Venice and transfer to the hotel Splendid Venice, your home for the next two nights. Dinner is independent.
Day 2 – Venice | Cooking Class
Today is devoted to discovering Venetian culinary traditions under the tutelage of the chefs of one of Venice's oldest trattorias, Ristorante Antica Besseta. When you arrive at this cozy, out-of-the-way restaurant furnished in 19th-century elegance with Thonet chairs and marble tabletops, you will be divided into four teams, each led by a chef trained by executive chef James Cassan. Your team will then be assigned one of four courses typical of Venetian cuisine and made with produce mostly from the region of the Lagoon: Antipasto, of shrimp and asparagus; Primo, of pasta with salsa di pomodoro; Secondo, of fillet of sea bass; and Tiramisu as the dessert. When all is done, enjoy an aperitif followed by the lunch you have prepared.
Return to your hotel via water taxi. The balance of the day is at leisure and dinner is independent.
Day 3 – Venice | Depart
After breakfast at the hotel and check out, transfer to the airport for flights homeward.
Your hotel:
The Splendid Venice is a 4-star property in the center of the city, near St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace. It features 165 rooms, a restaurant, two lounge bars, 24-hour room service, marvelous views of the surrounding area, and all of the services you would expect from a luxury hotel in a major European city.
Your program includes:
- 2 nights at The Splendid Venice (or similar)
- Transfer and luggage handling from the ship to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day
- Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on the day or departure
- Breakfast on days 2 and 3
- Lunch on days 1 and 2
- Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
- Local English-speaking guide
- Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
- Transfer from the hotel to the airport on any day other than the scheduled program departure day
- Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
- It is imperative that your flight details are communicated at least 60 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
- Hotel check-out on the last morning is by 10:00am. Late check-out may be arranged, depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
- The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
- This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
- Program is offered on a space available basis.
- Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
The Splendid Venice
S. Marco Mercerie, 760
30124 Venice, Italy
Telephone: +39 041 5200755
Total : AU$3,010
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.