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Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

9 days from $8,710

Aboard a 184-guest or 264-guest small ship

Voyage by Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Discover the treasures that lie along the shores of the Adriatic as you sail between Athens and Venice along Croatia’s island-studded Dalmatian Coast. Encounter an array of World Heritage sites—from the walled town of Dubrovnik to Montenegro’s breathtaking Gulf of Kotor—as you explore the legacy of Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Byzantines across the Balkan Peninsula.

Ocean Cruising

or Call 855-330-1542

Highlights

Smithsonian Journeys / PONANT Experience: Each cruise will be accompanied by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. An excursion or activity is included in each port of call. You may have a choice of excursions in many ports, so that you can delve more deeply into subjects that interest you.  

  • Mostar and Ston: In the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina, tour the Ottoman outpost of Mostar, now a World Heritage site, and see the famous Stari Most bridge, destroyed during the Bosnian War and painstakingly reconstructed to its 16th-century form. Or visit the centuries-old saltworks in the walled town of Ston, and set out on a local boat to see how oysters and mussels are farmed here—and taste the fresh catch.
  • Sarande and Butrint: Venture to Albania to encounter sites long cut off from the rest of the world. Uncover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Butrint, set on a picturesque peninsula, or take a walking tour of Sarande and explore its ancient sites.
  • Hvar: Step into history on beautiful Hvar on a walking tour of the 17th-century squares and monuments of Hvar town; or travel into the countryside to view lavender fields and enjoy an easy hike to the beach.  
  • Dubrovnik: Enjoy a full day in exquisite Dubrovnik to see the famous landmarks of this iconic World Heritage-listed walled city.  
  • Kotor: Sail into Montenegro’s spectacular Bay of Kotor, a World Heritage site surrounded by towering peaks, and tour the historic town of Kotor.  
  • The Corinth Canal and Delphi (2027): Make a thrilling passage through the dramatic Corinth Canal, an ultra-narrow waterway that cuts through the rocky Isthmus of Corinth and is navigable only by small ship. Then, from the port of Itea, venture to the ancient site of Delphi, home to the mythical Oracle and considered by the Greeks to be the center of the world; or explore St. Lucas Monastery, a spectacular monument of Middle Byzantine architecture.

Itinerary

To see itinerary, please click on an option below.

Jun 18–25, 2026: 8 Days

Day 1 — Venice, Italy

Arrive in legendary Venice, built on the edge of a lagoon in the fifth century. Together the city and its lagoon—which played a major role in the power and defenses of the Venetian Empire—make up a World Heritage site. Transfer to the port and embark the ship this afternoon. (D)

Le Boréal

Day 2 — Hvar, Croatia

Since the 4th century B.C., Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians have all left their mark on the island of Hvar. Known for its fields of rosemary, lavender, and laurel, this fertile island has produced olives and wine since the ancient Greeks. Discover Hvar on your choice of two excursions today. Step into history on a walking tour of Hvar Town with a visit to the handsome Renaissance Franciscan Monastery and its museum, the Cathedral of St. Stephan and its four-story bell tower, and the Venetian Loggia. At the Benedictine Cloister, learn about Hvar lace, crafted by local nuns out the fibers of dried agave leaves, and see their handiwork at a small museum. Your final stop is the 17th-century Arsenal, which houses Europe's oldest Municipal Theater, established in 1612 and still in use today. Alternatively, head into the island’s interior on a scenic drive to the Stari Grad Plain to Hora and the Agroturizam Pharos, where a local family is continuing the traditions of the ancient Greeks today. This working farm produces a range of organic food and wines as well as processing lavender. Take a guided tour of their lavender distillery and learn about the importance of lavender to Hvar's economy and way of life. (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 3 — Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Ston, Croatia

Dock in Ploče today and head inland to Mostar, a historic town in the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Venture into the World Heritage-listed Old Town, an Ottoman garrison town in the 16th century. Visit the mosque and a typical Turkish house, and see the storied Stari Most, a graceful Ottoman bridge that was famously destroyed during the Bosnian War. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Alternatively, travel to the walled town of Ston on Croatia’s Pelješac Peninsula. Take a walking tour and visit the town’s saltworks, established in the 13th century and some of the oldest in Europe. Continue to Mali Ston, the shellfish capital of Croatia. Board a local boat to see the oyster and mussel beds and taste the fresh catch. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit a local winery and sample some of the best wines of the region. (B,L,D)       

Le Boréal

Day 4 — Dubrovnik, Croatia

Magnificently positioned on a rocky spur on the Adriatic coast, the walled city of Dubrovnik is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe—despite having suffered a devastating earthquake in 1667 and the ravages of many wars. Your walking tour begins on the Stradum, a wide pedestrian way lined with shops and cafés and a remarkable number of historic buildings. Venture into the exquisite cloister of the Franciscan Monastery and see the oldest pharmacy in Europe, founded in 1317 and still offering traditional salves today. Continue to the Cathedral of the Assumption, a treasure trove of reliquaries and artwork, including an altarpiece by Titian. Stroll past important cultural monuments, from Sponza Palace to the Onofrio Fountain, fed by a 15th-century aqueduct that carries potable water from a spring seven miles away. End the tour at the Gothic-Renaissance Rector's Palace, now a museum that tells the story of Dubrovnik’s days as the capital of the Republic of Ragusa, a maritime power that rivaled Venice in the late Middle Ages. Or take a short walk through Old Town, then drive along the lovely Zupa coastline to the picturesque seaside resort of Cavtat for a walking tour of the town founded by Greek settlers from Epidaurus. Continue to the Konavle region to the village of Ljuta. Visit a traditional water mill and learn its history with a demonstration of flour production. (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 5 — Kotor, Montenegro

Montenegro is one of the newest nations in the world, having gained its independence in 2006. The spectacular Bay of Kotor, deeply carved into the Montenegrin mountains, leads to the charming medieval town of Kotor, a World Heritage site known for the incredible Venetian and baroque architecture of its fortified Old Town. On a walking tour, admire 14th-century frescoes at the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and explore the town’s seafaring and naval traditions at the Maritime Museum. Then take a scenic drive to Perast for a walking tour of its historic old town and a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks. Alternately a full day tour includes a scenic drive towards the mountain of Lovćen to a viewpoint overlooking the World-Heritage protected Boka Bay. Continue to Cetinje, the old Royal capital and cultural center of Montenegro. After a walking tour, enjoy a lunch of traditional Montenegrin specialties. Descend the mountains to the coastal town of Budva, known for its perfectly preserved walls. End the tour in Kotor for a guided tour of the Old Town. (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 6 — Sarande and Butrint, Albania

A country the size of Maryland with a long Adriatic coast, Albania harbors no less than four World Heritage sites. These treasures were hidden from the world for much of the 20th century, during the brutal reign of communist dictator Enver Hoxha. Arrive in the port of Sarande and discover this fascinating and complex country on one of two excursions. Visit the World Heritage site of Butrint, where the vestiges of Byzantine and Venetian rule intermingle with ancient Greek and Roman ruins on a stunning peninsula. Or explore Sarande, starting with a visit to the Ottoman Lekursi Castle, built by Suleiman the Magnificent in 1537. Take in the views all the way to Corfu from the hilltop fortress, then visit a winery for a tasting of wine, brandy and local specialties. Continue on a walking tour of Sarande that includes the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city and its 4th-century fortifications, and the remnants of an early Christian monastery. (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 7 — Katakolon, Greece

From the charming fishing village of Katakolon, visit the World Heritage site of ancient Olympia. Learn about the early Olympic games that began here, and venture into the Sanctuary of Zeus. Discover an exquisite collection of sculptures and other artifacts found at the site--including a famous statue of Hermes attributed to the sculptor Praxiteles, who was active in the fourth century BC. Alternatively, drive into the countryside to a family-run agriturismo. Hear stories of the rural Greek way of life from a fourth-generation farming family, enjoy traditional Greek music, and learn the basic steps of the sirtaki dance.

Le Boréal

Day 8 — Athens, Greece / Return Home

Arrive at the port of Piraeus in Athens. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Included meals are denoted as follows: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Reception (R), Dinner (D)

Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic

Slideshow

Optional Extensions

Pre-Cruise Ext.: Venice

Venice: La Serenissima — 3 days, 2 nights

The itinerary below applies to the current year and serves as a sample for future voyages. Extension details for future departures will be posted as soon as they are available, and all booked travelers will be notified via email.

At the height of its imperial power, Venice proudly referred to itself as La Serenissima, the Most Serene Republic. Even today, the city remains a masterpiece of timeless grandeur, where gilded palazzos line winding canals and echoes of history linger in every piazza. From the shimmer of the lagoon at sunrise to the enchanting glow of twilight over St. Mark’s Square, Venice invites you to lose yourself in its beauty, artistry and romance.

Day 1 — Venice, Italy

Upon arrival at Venice Marco Polo Airport, you will be warmly greeted and escorted to Splendid Venice hotel by private water taxi—your first glimpse of the city's iconic waterways. In the afternoon, a dedicated hospitality representative will be available to assist with recommendations for dining and independent exploration, ensuring you make the most of your first day in Venice. As evening falls, gather with fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception at the hotel, where you can toast to the start of your journey. Dinner is at your leisure, offering the perfect opportunity to discover one of Venice’s many charming restaurants.

The Splendid Venice

Day 2 — Venice

After breakfast at the hotel, join your guide for an exploration of two of Venice's most emblematic crafts: fashioning the masks worn during the Venetian Carnival and manufacturing the gondolas for which the city is famous.

Your first visit is to the studio of an expert mask-maker, who will introduce you to the mysterious origins of the use of masks in Venice and their association with Carnival from the 13th century onward. You will learn how the masks are designed and produced and will see some of the magnificent variety of their decoration.

A walk through some lesser-known neighborhoods of the city will bring you to one of the few remaining squeri—the workshops where gondolas are built and maintained. In the past, these boatyards were located all along the Grand Canal, attesting to the importance of gondolas in the life of the city. A local artisan will describe the traditional methods of designing a boat to meet the individual needs of each gondolier and will explain the history of this uniquely Venetian method of transport. After your visit to the boatyard, transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

The Splendid Venice

Day 3 — Venice | Embark

After breakfast and checking out of the hotel, set out on a guided walking tour that brings Venice’s storied past to life. Begin in the heart of the city with a visit to the Doge’s Palace, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that served as the political and judicial hub of the Venetian Republic. Explore its grand chambers, adorned with priceless artworks and echoes of centuries of governance during Venice’s golden age as a maritime power.

As you exit the palace, stroll through St. Mark’s Square, pausing to admire the ornate façade of St. Mark’s Basilica. While interior access is no longer included, your guide will share the fascinating history of this iconic structure, originally built to house the remains of St. Mark, the city’s patron saint. Learn about the basilica’s unique blend of Byzantine and Venetian influences and its symbolic role in the city’s spiritual identity.

Following the tour, enjoy lunch at your leisure or take some time to explore Venice independently. Later, reconvene at the hotel to transfer to the pier for embarkation.

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 Splendid Venice (or similar)
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the ship on embarkation day
  • Welcome Reception on Day 1
  • Breakfast on Days 2 and 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 90 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.
  • This pre-tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility as it requires a lot of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and steps.
  • The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
  • 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.

Post-Cruise Ext.: Athens

The Heart of Athens — 3 days, 2 nights

The itinerary below applies to the current year and serves as a sample for future voyages. Extension details for future departures will be posted as soon as they are available, and all booked travelers will be notified via email.

Athens is the birthplace of democracy and philosophy and home to the most enduring symbol of classical civilization—the Parthenon. Join this specially designed program to explore the incomparably rich legacy of this amazing city. From its ancient ruins to its vibrant modern culture, Athens seamlessly blends history with contemporary charm, offering an unforgettable experience at every turn.

Day 1 — Athens, Greece

After breakfast aboard ship, join a tour this morning to the heart of Athens. Your first visit will be to the New Acropolis Museum, opened to the public in 2009 and designed to house and showcase all the artifacts found on the Acropolis since archaeological work at the site began. The result is the exhibition of some 4,000 objects dating from the Greek Bronze Age through the Roman and Byzantine periods. Your tour of the Acropolis itself includes the Propylaea, which serves as the entrance to the complex, the Temple of Athena Nike, or Wingless Victory, and the Erechtheion with its classical Porch of Maidens. And of course, there is the Parthenon, the most perfect example of classical architecture in the world, designed as a shrine to Athena and at one time housing a massive gold and ivory statue of the warrior goddess.

Following the excursion, enjoy time at leisure to stroll the pedestrian walkways of the Plaka, the ancient neighborhood at the base of the Acropolis. Here you will find a variety of shops and cafés where you can browse and have an independent lunch before checking into your hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure and dinner is on your own.

Hotel Grande Bretagne

Day 2 — Athens

Breakfast at the hotel is followed by an excursion to two of Athen's most important sites. First, explore the National Archaeological Museum, an incomparable treasure trove of Cycladic, Minoan, Mycenaean, and Classical Greek art. A few of the museum's most important exhibits include the bronze statue of Poseidon, the head of Hygeia (Goddess of Health), the bronze statue of the 'Jockey-boy' of Artemision, the Golden mask of 'Agamemnon,' and the brilliant Minoan-style frescoes from Santorini.

Next, a short drive brings you to the Ancient Agora, which once served as the political, cultural and religious center of the city.  Athenians would gather to buy and sell goods, but also to learn the news, to debate issues, or simply to gossip. This is where Socrates could be found daily posing his questions to fellow citizens.

The balance of the day is at leisure with independent lunch and dinner.

Hotel Grande Bretagne

Day 3 — Athens | Depart

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for flights homeward.

Your hotel:

Located in historic Syntagma Square, the 5-star Hotel Grande Bretagne is the perfect venue for a visit to Athens. Within walking distance of exclusive shopping areas, museums, and the business district, the hotel boasts 320 rooms and suites, two restaurants, and a spa. Its views of the city center, from the Parliament building to the Parthenon, are unrivaled.

Your program includes:

  • 2 nights at the Hotel Grande Bretagne (or similar)
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the pier to the hotel on disembarkation day
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3
  • Breakfast on Days 2 and 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 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.
  • 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 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.

Dates & Prices

Click on the departure date to see pricing. Click the for more information.

Dates

Availability

Price

Jun 18 - 25, 2026
Departed
from $8,710 $8,320

Special Offer

Early booking savings available for a limited time!

Ship: Le Boréal Experts: Florin Curta | Hugh Neighbour

Superior Stateroom

Superior stateroom (226 sq. ft.), picture window (cabins 302 thru 307) or porthole (300 and 301). Deck 3.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $8,710 $8,320 $16,490 $15,710
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Deluxe Stateroom

Deluxe stateroom (200 sq. ft.), picture window with door onto private partial wall balcony (43 sq. ft.). Deck 3.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $9,400 $8,550 $17,870 $16,170
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4

Prestige stateroom (200 sq. ft.), sliding glass door opens to private balcony (43 sq. ft.).

Occupancy Double Single
Price $10,390 $9,440 $19,850 $17,950
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5

Prestige stateroom (200 sq. ft.), sliding glass door opens to private balcony (43 sq. ft.).

Occupancy Double Single
Price $10,880 $9,880 $20,830 $18,830
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6

Prestige stateroom (200 sq. ft.), sliding glass door opens to private balcony (43 sq. ft.).

Occupancy Double Single
Price $11,470 $10,410 $22,010 $19,890
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Deluxe Suite

Deluxe suite (290 sq. ft.), sliding glass door to private balcony (54 sq. ft.), sitting area with daybed. Deck 6.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $15,810 $14,320 $30,690 $27,710
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Prestige Suite - Deck 5

Prestige suite (398 sq. ft.), sliding glass door to larger private balcony (86 sq. ft.), two bathrooms, sitting area and sofa convertible to fixed queen.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $21,250 $20,230 $41,570 $39,530
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Prestige Suite - Deck 6

Prestige suite (398 sq. ft.), sliding glass door to larger private balcony (86 sq. ft.), two bathrooms, sitting area and sofa convertible to fixed queen.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $22,330 $21,260 $43,730 $41,590
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860

Owner's Suite

Owner's suite, extra large suite (484 sq. ft), sliding glass door to private terrace (97 sq. ft.). Large sitting area with half bath, master bathroom has a separate shower, tub, and double sinks. Deck 6.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $25,590 $50,250
Pre Ext. $1,920 $2,640
Post Ext. $1,770 $2,860
Le Boréal deck plan image

A deposit of 25% of the cruise price is required to reserve space on a cruise. Deposits are applied toward final payment of the cruise price.

Rates include port taxes and fees. Most shore excursions are included in the rates.

Pre- and post-program options and optional excursions, where applicable, are available at an additional cost.

Prices are based on rates of exchange, airfare & fuel (where applicable), tariffs, taxes, and other costs as of the tour publication date. We reserve the right to correct errors and to increase program prices to cover increased costs, tariffs, and taxes received after prices are published and to reflect currency fluctuations.

Experts

Florin Curta
Departure: Jun 18 - 25, 2026

Florin Curta

Historian & Archaeologist

Florin Curta is professor of medieval history and archaeology at the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he taught from 1999 to 2025. He is …
Florin Curta is professor of medieval history and archaeology at the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he taught from 1999 to 2025. He is a specialist in the history and archaeology of the Middle Ages, with a particular interest in East Central and Eastern Europe between ca. 500 and ca. 1250. He offers courses on England and France in the Middle Ages, the Holy Roman Empire, Byzantium, the Vikings, medieval Iberia, Italy, and Russia, as well as East Central and Eastern Europe in the Middle Ages. He also taught medieval archaeology, both in class and in the field, using sites in various countries in Europe, from Spain to Sweden, and from Ireland to Romania. Florin Curta has published extensively on the early Slavs, the political and cultural history of East Central and Eastern Europe and, more recently, the economic and social developments of the region during the early Middle Ages. Croatia and Dalmatia figure prominently in his research agenda, whether in terms of the presence of the early Slavs in the area or of such aspects as trade and Christianization in the early Middle Ages. Florin Curta has lectured at several universities in Europe, Latin America, and in the United States. He was interviewed for History Channel documentaries on the Roman Empire and for a documentary on the Slavs done by From Sarajevo to Red Africa Travel.

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Hugh Neighbour
Departure: Jun 18 - 25, 2026

Hugh Neighbour

Foreign Affairs Specialist

Hugh Neighbour brings many years of experience as a United States diplomat and an officer in the U.S. Navy, mostly working overseas. He specialized in …

Hugh Neighbour brings many years of experience as a United States diplomat and an officer in the U.S. Navy, mostly working overseas. He specialized in political and economic affairs, and was posted in Latin America, Asia/Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Hugh was awarded the Secretary of State’s Career Achievement Award as well as a number of Department of State awards for distinguished service. 

Since retiring from the U.S. State Department, Hugh has worked as a consultant in Washington and internationally, served as an official observer for several elections overseas, and lectured aboard high-end cruise ships. Several times a year, Hugh directs a course in advanced foreign area studies to select groups in the Washington region. Hugh will offer a fresh, up-to-date perspective on the history, culture, and current affairs of the fascinating peoples and places you will visit.

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Allan Langdale
Departure: Sep 29 - Oct 7, 2027

Allan Langdale

Art & Architectural Historian

Allan Langdale grew up on Vancouver Island wondering what the rest of the world was like and has spent much of his adult life finding …

Allan Langdale grew up on Vancouver Island wondering what the rest of the world was like and has spent much of his adult life finding out. Allan is an art and architectural historian, photographer, filmmaker, and travel writer who received his Ph.D. in art history from UC Santa Barbara. He has taught courses in Italian Renaissance art, Greek, Roman, Byzantine (including Georgian and Armenian architecture), and Indian and Islamic art and architecture. He currently teaches art history at UC Santa Cruz as a lecturer.

Along with several articles, Allan wrote the definitive architectural field guide to the little-known region of Turkish Cyprus, In a Contested Realm (2012) and also made the award-winning documentary film The Stones of Famagusta: the Story of a Forgotten City (2008). His travel books include Palermo: Travels in the City of Happiness (2015) and The Hippodrome of Istanbul / Constantinople: An Illustrated Handbook of its History (2019).

A popular Smithsonian Expert, Allan has traveled extensively in the eastern Mediterranean, the Black Sea region, the Middle East—including Jordan and Egypt—and India.

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Cynthia Paces
Departure: Sep 29 - Oct 7, 2027

Cynthia Paces

Historian

Cynthia Paces is a historian of modern Europe with extensive experience in Eastern Europe, whose teaching and scholarship center on places where cultures meet. A …

Cynthia Paces is a historian of modern Europe with extensive experience in Eastern Europe, whose teaching and scholarship center on places where cultures meet. A professor of history at The College of New Jersey since 1998, she has incorporated topics such as urban history, collective memory, family life, public health, religion, and nationalism into her research and teaching, and uses art, architecture, literature, film, music, and everyday life to understand the past. Cynthia’s recent book, Prague: The Heart of Europe, offers a sweeping history of the city from the ninth century to the present day and emphasizes the complex relationship among its Czechs, Germans, and Jews. She is also the author of Prague Panoramas: National Memory and Sacred Space in the Twentieth Century and co-editor of 1989: The End of the 20th Century.

Cynthia has traveled extensively in the former Yugoslavia and neighboring countries and taught seminars on the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, Muslims in Europe, and sacred spaces in global contexts. She regularly leads students on history study tours to destinations across Europe and Central Asia.

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Ship

Le Boréal

Le Boréal photo

Slideshow Deck Plan

Guest Capacity: Up to 264 Guests Crew Size: 145 crew members Length: 466 feet Width: 59 feet Flag: France

The Le Boréal launched by PONANT is the newest generation of five-star small ships, featuring a sleek design and chic decor that resembles a high-end boutique hotel and complimentary WiFi throughout the ship. Spacious, Ocean-view Suites and Staterooms Ninety-five percent of the 132 large, deluxe, air-conditioned, outside staterooms and suites (from 200 to 484 square feet) feature private balconies. Most accommodations have two twin beds that convert to one queen-size bed. Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower (bathtub in limited number of staterooms) and the luxurious amenities of a fine hotel, including individual climate control, satellite flat screen television, wireless Internet access, safe, minibar, full-length closet, writing desk/dressing table, and plush robes. Chic and Casual Dining International and regional cuisine are served in the stylish, spacious La Licorne dining room in single, unassigned seating, alfresco in the casual indoor-outdoor La Boussole restaurant or from 24-hour room service. Continental and buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, afternoon tea, and a four-course dinner are served daily. Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included. Spacious Public Areas, World-Class Service, and Facilities Enjoy views from the Panoramic Lounge; nightly entertainment in the Main Lounge; and lectures, cultural performances and film screenings in the state-of-the-art theater. There is a library, Internet salon, Sun Deck, swimming pool, beauty salon, spa, Turkish bath-style steam room, full range of fitness equipment and two elevators. The infirmary is staffed with a doctor and nurse. The highly trained and personable English-speaking international crew provides attentive service. Two elevators service all stateroom decks. Respect for the Environment The state-of-the-art propulsion system and custom-built stabilizers provide an exceptionally smooth, quiet and comfortable voyage by minimizing vibration and engine noise. The ship company is proud of its 'Clean Ship' standing, an extreme rarity among ocean cruising vessels, as its commitment to energy efficiency and environmental protection of marine ecosystems is of paramount importance.

Le Dumont d’Urville

Le Dumont d’Urville photo

Slideshow Deck Plan

Guest Capacity: Up to 184 Guests Crew Size: 118 crew members Length: 430 feet Width: 59 feet Flag: France

Launched in 2019, Le Dumont d'Urville is among a new fleet of luxury expedition ships launched by PONANT. These ships combine revolutionary design and a new standard of luxury. Spacious, Ocean-view Suites and Staterooms Each of the 92 elegant suites and staterooms features a private balcony, while Grand Deluxe Suites have a bay window and spacious private terrace. The deluxe, air-conditioned staterooms and suites (up to 484 square feet) have two twin beds that convert to one queen-size bed. Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower (bathtub in limited number of staterooms) and the luxurious amenities of a fine hotel, including individual climate control, satellite flat screen television, wireless Internet access, safe, minibar, full-length closet, writing desk/dressing table, and plush robes. Chic and Casual Dining International and regional cuisine are served in the stylish, spacious indoor-outdoor restaurant in a single, unassigned seating; at the casual pool deck grill; or from 24-hour room service. Continental and buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, afternoon tea, and a four-course dinner are served daily. Wine is served at your table during lunch and dinner and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included throughout the cruise. Spacious Public Areas, Intimate Atmosphere, and World-Class Service The warm and inviting public areas accommodate all passengers comfortably. Enjoy sweeping views from the Observation Lounge and Main Lounge, both of which open to the outdoors, and lectures, cultural performances, or film screenings in the state-of-the-art theater. For your convenience, Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. The ship also features the first luxury underwater observatory, the Blue Eye, a multisensory underwater observation lounge that incorporates decor and technology to immerse you in the beauty of the ocean's ecosystem. Here, you can observe fascinating marine life through the large subaquatic windows while digital screens and the specially designed global listening system relay the sights and sounds beneath the ocean surface.  Other amenities aboard ship are a Sun Deck, swimming pool, beauty salon, spa and sauna, fitness room, and two elevators. In addition, there is a three-level marina platform with complimentary kayaking and snorkeling equipment, as well as 10 easily accessible Zodiacs.  The highly trained, English-speaking international crew are personable and attentive, and the ship has an infirmary staffed with a doctor and nurse. Respect for the Environment The newest additions to a fleet that has been awarded the prestigious "Clean Ship" designation, a rarity among ocean-cruising vessels, these expedition ships are designed with energy efficient, advanced eco-friendly features that protect fragile marine ecosystems while providing a safe and comfortable voyage. 

Tour Details

Activity Description

Expectations: This cruise includes half day excursions, many of them walking tours that include standing and walking for extended periods of time. During the coastal cruise the ship will pull up to a pier for disembarkation via a gangway. In certain ports, the ship will be at anchor and disembarkation will be by tender. Morning and afternoon excursions off ship will include walks at archeological sites and on cobblestone streets, walkways and city hills. Stairs may not have handrails and there will be limited or no access to elevators. Some guided walks will depart directly from the pier and others will require a motor coach to reach the site. The ship does have elevators.  

Appropriate for: Travelers who are physically fit, walk on cobblestone streets, and on steep or uneven paths. ​

Reading List

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Travel Insurance

For the convenience of our travelers, Smithsonian Journeys includes a basic medical expense and evacuation plan through Trip Mate, a Generali Global Assistance & Insurance Services brand, at no additional charge. This plan provides post-departure Medical and Dental coverage of $250,000 per person and Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage of $1,000,000 per person (U.S. Residents Only). Note: For full details regarding these coverages please review the following Plan Documents here.

In addition, we recommend that travelers purchase a travel protection plan to help protect their travel investment from unforeseen events such as cancellation due to illness, flight delays due to adverse weather, baggage loss, and more. For your convenience, Smithsonian Journeys offers an optional Travel Protection Plan administered by Trip Mate, a Generali Global Assistance & Insurance Services brand. For those interested, optional "Cancel for Any Reason" coverage is available for an additional charge. Note: Certain eligibility requirements apply and Cancel for Any Reason coverage is not available to New York residents. For full details regarding this coverage please review the following Plan Documents here.

To learn more about the Travel Protection Plan, you may visit https://www.generalipartner.com/smithsonianjourneys or call the administrator, Trip Mate, a Generali Global Assistance & Insurance Services brand at (866) 501-3252.