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Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca – with Smithsonian Journeys

Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca – with Smithsonian Journeys

About This Cruise

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking 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 voyage in the heart of the Mediterranean explores four islands that, despite their differences, share a history of successive waves of civilizations that have washed over them from prehistoric times to the present. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, Italians, British, and Spanish—all have left their mark on the language, art, architecture, and cuisine of Sicily, Sardinia, Menorca, and Mallorca.

From Valletta, Malta, your discovery of these very special islands begins with two days on the largest of them, as you visit the Sicilian cities of Trapani and Palermo. Rounding Sicily's western tip, you arrive in Trapani for an excursion into the countryside and the ancient Doric temple of Segesta or to medieval Erice, perched on a high triangular plateau sloping down to the sea.

Le Boréal then brings you to Palermo, founded by the Phoenicians in 827 BC and becoming one of Europe’s greatest cities in the 12th century, when the Normans took control. Here you will visit Cappella Palatina, a Byzantine-Arab-Norman structure featuring dazzling mosaics and magnificent inlaid marble floors and walls. Or drive to nearby Monreale to explore its famed Norman cathedral.

Cagliari, Sardinia's capital, is your gateway to the archaeological site of Nora. Founded by Phoenicians in the 8th century BC, it was subsequently taken over by Carthaginians, then by Romans. Explore the  remains of Carthaginian warehouses, buildings from the time of the Roman Republic, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large baths with splendid mosaics, and a theater, almost intact, dating to the time of the Roman Empire.

On Menorca, second largest of the Balearic Islands, visit Mahon, the island's main port, where a tour of the town reveals Menorca's varied history through its architecture—classical Georgian sash-windowed town houses sharing pride of place with traditional Spanish homes. Visit the Museum of Menorca, and then drive to Torralba d’en Salord, a large and well-preserved Bronze Age talayotic settlement recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Palma de Mallorca on the island of Mallorca, explore the Gothic-style Bellver Castle, one of only a handful of circular castles in Europe, or board a vintage train through the orange and olive groves, almond and locust-bean trees, lush villages, and pine-covered mountains that define the island's landscape.

Your voyage ends in Barcelona, Spain.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Le Boréal is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    Refined, unhurried cruising with enrichment on board

  • Solo travellers

    Low or no single supplement on selected cabins

Type

Ocean, Luxury

Ship

Le Boréal

Departure Date

10 October 2026

Cruise Line

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 1800 814 008

Itinerary

Malta

Valletta

Malta's capital, the minicity of Valletta, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-color limestone. Houses along the narrow streets have overhanging wooden balconies for people-watching from indoors. Generations ago they gave housebound women a window on the world of the street. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta's compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. City Gate and the upper part of Valletta are experiencing vast redevelopment that includes a new Parliament Building and open-air performance venue. The complex, completed mid-2013, has numerous pedestrian detours in place along with building noise and dust. Before setting out along Republic Street, stop at the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures.

Italy

Trapani, Sicily

Trapani, the most important town on Sicily’s west coast, lies below the headland of Mount Erice and offers stunning views of the Egadi Islands on a clear day. Trapani’s Old District occupies a scimitarshaped promontory between the open sea on the north and the salt marshes to the south. The ancient industry of extracting salt from the marshes has recently been revived, and it is documented in the Museo delle Saline. In addition to the salt marshes,Trapani’s other interesting environs include the beautiful little hill town of Erice, the promontory of Capo San Vito stretching north beyond the splendid headland of Monte Cofano, the lovely island of Motya and the town of Marsala. Trips farther afield will take you to the magnificent site of Segesta or the Egadi Islands, reached by boat or hydrofoil from Trapani Port.

Italy

Palermo

Once the intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo has always been at the crossroads of civilization. Favorably situated on a crescent-shaped bay at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, it has attracted almost every culture touching the Mediterranean world. To Palermo's credit, it has absorbed these diverse cultures into a unique personality that is at once Arab and Christian, Byzantine and Roman, Norman and Italian. The city's heritage encompasses all of Sicily's varied ages, but its distinctive aspect is its Arab-Norman identity, an improbable marriage that, mixed in with Byzantine and Jewish elements, created some resplendent works of art. No less noteworthy than the architecture is Palermo's chaotic vitality, on display at some of Italy's most vibrant outdoor markets, public squares, street bazaars, and food vendors, and above all in its grand climax of Italy's most spectacular passeggiata (the leisurely social stroll along the principal thoroughfare).

Italy

Cagliari

Known in Sardinia as Casteddu, the island's capital has steep streets and impressive Italianate architecture, from modern to medieval. This city of nearly 160,000 people is characterized by a busy commercial center and waterfront with broad avenues and arched arcades, as well as by the typically narrow streets of the old hilltop citadel (called, simply, “Castello”). The Museo Archeologico makes a good starting point to a visit. The imposing Bastione di Saint Remy and Mercato di San Benedetto (one of the best fish markets in Italy) are both musts.

No summary for this day yet.

Spain

Mahón, Menorca

The capital of Menorca since 1721, Mahon has a impressive natural deep water harbour, which is one of the largest in the world. This, coupled with its strategic location, has made it a stronghold for many nations throughout history. Mahon has an abundance of historical buildings, the oldest being the Arch of Saint Roc which is all that remains of the wall that once encircled the whole town. The island was occupied by the British during the 18th century and Lord Nelson is thought to have stayed there. Indeed, San Antoni Mansion, located on the north side of the harbour, houses a collection of Nelson memorabilia. The legacy of colonial rule can be seen in the muted Georgian style of some of the buildings, but Mahon still boasts attractive examples of neo-Classical, Baroque and Romanesque architecture. With narrow streets to explore, pleasant shaded squares and welcoming pavement cafés, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please be aware that most shops in town close for a siesta between 1330 and 1730.

Spain

Palma de Mallorca

If you look north of the cathedral (La Seu, or the seat of the bishopric, to Mallorcans) on a map of the city of Palma, you can see around the Plaça Santa Eulàlia a jumble of tiny streets that made up the earliest settlement. Farther out, a ring of wide boulevards traces the fortifications built by the Moors to defend the larger city that emerged by the 12th century. The zigzags mark the bastions that jutted out at regular intervals. By the end of the 19th century, most of the walls had been demolished; the only place where you can still see the massive defenses is at Ses Voltes, along the seafront west of the cathedral.A torrent (streambed) used to run through the middle of the old city, dry for most of the year but often a raging flood in the rainy season. In the 17th century it was diverted to the east, along the moat that ran outside the city walls. Two of Palma's main arteries, La Rambla and the Passeig d'es Born, now follow the stream's natural course. The traditional evening paseo (promenade) takes place on the Born.If you come to Palma by car, park in the garage beneath the Parc de la Mar (the ramp is just off the highway from the airport, as you reach the cathedral) and stroll along the park. Beside it run the huge bastions guarding the Almudaina Palace; the cathedral, golden and massive, rises beyond. Where you exit the garage, there's a ceramic mural by the late Catalan artist and Mallorca resident Joan Miró, facing the cathedral across the pool that runs the length of the park.If you begin early enough, a walk along the ramparts at Ses Voltes from the mirador beside the cathedral is spectacular. The first rays of the sun turn the upper pinnacles of La Seu bright gold and then begin to work their way down the sandstone walls. From the Parc de la Mar, follow Avinguda Antoni Maura past the steps to the palace. Just below the Plaça de la Reina, where the Passeig d'es Born begins, turn left on Carrer de la Boteria into the Plaça de la Llotja (if the Llotja itself is open, don't miss a chance to visit—it's the Mediterranean's finest Gothic-style civic building). From there stroll through the Plaça Drassana to the Museu d'Es Baluard, at the end of Carrer Sant Pere. Retrace your steps to Avinguda Antoni Maura. Walk up the Passeig d'es Born to Plaça Joan Carles I, then right on Avenida de La Unió.

Spain

Barcelona

The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Famíliaand his other unique creations, are part of a visit to Spain's second-largest city. Modern art museums and chic shops call for attention, too. Barcelona's vibe stays lively well into the night, when you can linger over regional wine and cuisine at buzzing tapas bars.

Overview

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking 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 voyage in the heart of the Mediterranean explores four islands that, despite their differences, share a history of successive waves of civilizations that have washed over them from prehistoric times to the present. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, Italians, British, and Spanish—all have left their mark on the language, art, architecture, and cuisine of Sicily, Sardinia, Menorca, and Mallorca.

From Valletta, Malta, your discovery of these very special islands begins with two days on the largest of them, as you visit the Sicilian cities of Trapani and Palermo. Rounding Sicily's western tip, you arrive in Trapani for an excursion into the countryside and the ancient Doric temple of Segesta or to medieval Erice, perched on a high triangular plateau sloping down to the sea.

Le Boréal then brings you to Palermo, founded by the Phoenicians in 827 BC and becoming one of Europe’s greatest cities in the 12th century, when the Normans took control. Here you will visit Cappella Palatina, a Byzantine-Arab-Norman structure featuring dazzling mosaics and magnificent inlaid marble floors and walls. Or drive to nearby Monreale to explore its famed Norman cathedral.

Cagliari, Sardinia's capital, is your gateway to the archaeological site of Nora. Founded by Phoenicians in the 8th century BC, it was subsequently taken over by Carthaginians, then by Romans. Explore the  remains of Carthaginian warehouses, buildings from the time of the Roman Republic, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large baths with splendid mosaics, and a theater, almost intact, dating to the time of the Roman Empire.

On Menorca, second largest of the Balearic Islands, visit Mahon, the island's main port, where a tour of the town reveals Menorca's varied history through its architecture—classical Georgian sash-windowed town houses sharing pride of place with traditional Spanish homes. Visit the Museum of Menorca, and then drive to Torralba d’en Salord, a large and well-preserved Bronze Age talayotic settlement recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Palma de Mallorca on the island of Mallorca, explore the Gothic-style Bellver Castle, one of only a handful of circular castles in Europe, or board a vintage train through the orange and olive groves, almond and locust-bean trees, lush villages, and pine-covered mountains that define the island's landscape.

Your voyage ends in Barcelona, Spain.

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Suite

Owner's Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 96 ft² balcony
  • Two sliding panoramic windows
  • A bathroom with shower and spa bath
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
  • A private return transfer
  • Butler service
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival
  • A fruit basket every day
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A living-dining room with a sofa, armchair, second TV, a table for four, and a courtesy sliding door
  • Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Prestige Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 86 ft² balcony
  • Two sliding panoramic windows
  • Two bathrooms with showe
  • Priority boarding, depending on port of embarkation (Prestige Suite Deck 6)
  • Butler service (Prestige Suite Deck 6)
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival and a fruit basket every day (Prestige Suite Deck 6)
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A living room with a convertible sofa into a king-size or two single beds, armchairs, second TV, and a courtesy sliding door

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Deluxe Suite

In addition to the services available to all our suites and cabins :

  • A private 5m2 balcony
  • A bathroom with shower and small bathtub
  • Butler service
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival
  • A fruit basket every day
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • An armchair and sofa

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Outside

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 43 ft² balcony
  • A sliding panoramic window
  • Bathroom with shower
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Outside

Lower Decks Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 43 ft² balcony
  • A porthole and glass door
  • Bathroom with shower
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Outside

Window or Porthole Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • One king-size bed or two single beds (180 x 200 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A window (except for stateroom 300: a round porthole only)

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

french

La Licorne

At the back of deck 2, you will find a gourmet restaurant with a wine cellar, offering French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

buffet

La Boussole

In a relaxed atmosphere, the grill restaurant located on deck 6 welcomes you for breakfast and buffet lunches as well as themed dinners.

room

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

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Lounge

The Main Lounge Room

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

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Lounge

The Observatory Lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

Bar

The Outdoor Bar

Enjoy a drink in the outdoor lounge area with 50 seats and take in the view of the sea and the pool bridge.

Theatre

Theatre

Comfortably seated, you will attend the conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as the various shows, concerts, and performances organised by professional dancers and musicians on board.

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.

Art and literature

Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.

Sun Deck, Pool Deck

Swimming Pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is conducive to moments of relaxation in the sun.

Reception

Excursion Reception and Office


If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

Studio, Photographers

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

Shop

Boutique

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

Spa

The Spa

Onboard our ships, in the heart of an intimate and privileged environment with the ocean as your backdrop, discover a new way to enjoy the Spa experience.

In association with SOTHYS™ Paris, we are offering you a selection of expert face and body treatments. The “savoir-faire” and expertise of our hair professional partner DAVINES® will be able to satisfy all your expectations.

Gym

The Fitness Centre

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

Salon

The Hairdressing Salon

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.