Find inspiration for your next journey! Request a Free Catalog and Join our Newsletter.
Request a Free Catalog and Join our Newsletter.

Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca

8 days from $8,292

Aboard a 264-guest small ship

Voyage by Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT EXPLORATIONS

The western Mediterranean is dotted with islands where history and natural beauty intertwine. Set sail from baroque Valletta, Malta on a voyage to explore Greek and Arab-Norman treasures in western Sicily, the rose-colored capital of Sardinia, Bronze Age sites in Menorca, and medieval monuments of Palma de Mallorca. Along the way, sample local specialties, visit fascinating archaeological sites, and explore gorgeous coasts of limestone cliffs and secluded coves.

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. 

  • Valletta, Malta: Sail out of one of Europe’s most stunning harbors, the fortified city of Valletta. Be on deck to photograph the golden-hued city as you take to the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Trapani and Erice: During a day on Sicily’s western coast, meander through the cobbled lanes of hilltop Erice, visit the historic saltworks of Trapani, or tour the ancient Greek sites of Segesta. Then sample wines in Marsala or explore the archaeological part of Selinunte.
  • Palermo: Encounter Palermo’s World Heritage-listed Arab-Norman architecture and travel into orchard-covered hills to see the spectacular cathedral of Monreale. Alternatively, delve into the city’s centuries-old markets and sample local specialties, or travel to the delightful medieval port of Cefalù for a walking tour.
  • Sardinia: Tour the capital city of Cagliari from its baroque palazzi to its hilltop fortress and take in views from Monte Urpino. Then explore the remarkable ruins of ancient Nora, once a thriving port under the Carthaginians and the Romans.
  • Balearic Islands: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Balearic Islands, home to idyllic coves, soaring limestone cliffs, and a unique blend of Spanish and Catalan culture. Discover the remnants of an intriguing Bronze Age civilization on Menorca, and step into history in Palma de Mallorca, exploring medieval monuments in this cosmopolitan capital of the Balearic Islands.

Itinerary

To see itinerary, please click on an option below.

Oct 10–17, 2026: Valletta to Barcelona

Day 1 — Valletta, Malta

Arrive in Valletta, a World Heritage site known for its golden-hued baroque architecture. Settle into your cabin and take in the view as the ship cruises out of one of Europe’s loveliest harbors. (D)

Le Boréal

Day 2 — Trapani, Sicily

On Sicily’s western coast, dock in Trapani and set out on your choice of three excursions. Journey to the hilltop village of Erice, once a retreat for Trapani’s wealthy families. On a guided walk, admire picturesque homes, castles, and gardens and take in views of the Sicilian coast far below. Alternatively, drive to the ancient city of Segesta to see a hillside Greek theater and a magnificent Doric temple that stands alone amid grassy slopes. Or delve into Trapani’s 2,000-year-old tradition of sea salt production, following the Via del Sale to saltworks, windmills, and wetlands and visiting the Salt Museum. Later, discover the dramatic history of Marsala on a walking tour, and sample its namesake dessert wine during a tasting at a local winery. Instead, choose to visit Selinunte, a vast archaeological site with an Acropolis that affords incredible views. (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 3 — Palermo, Sicily

Spend today in Palermo, a city that still bears the vestiges of its many rulers, including the Carthagians, the Romans, the Arabs, and the Normans. On a panoramic city tour, discover its unique Arab-Norman architecture, built at the height of the city’s prosperity in the 12th century and recognized as a World Heritage site. Then set off on one of three excursions. Follow a guide through the mosaic-clad Capella Palatina, then travel through orchard-covered hills to see the spectacular Norman cathedral of Monreale. Or stroll Piazza Bellini to the Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio to see its Byzantine mosaics, then delve into Palermo’s celebrated gastronomy at one of the city’s oldest food markets. Tour the Palazzo Conte Federico, where you’re hosted by Countess Federico herself, and enjoy a tasting of Palermo's renowned street food. Or travel to the medieval port town of Cefalù for a walking tour including its cathedral, covered in splendid painting and gold mosaics, and the Osterio Magno, a Norman palace where ancient Roman artifacts have been discovered. (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 4 — Cagliari, Sardinia

Part of the same Mediterranean mountain chain as Corsica, Sardinia is an island of granite peaks, arid grasslands, and salt marshes. It is known for its unusual prehistoric towers, called nuraghes, built of volcanic basalt and positioned all over the island. Sail into the harbor at Cagliari at midday and set out to tour Sardinia’s rose-colored capital city. Stroll through wide piazzas bordered by baroque palazzi and churches, and ascend to the impressive hilltop fortress. Take in views of the city from the lofty parklands of Monte Urpino, then journey to ancient Nora, once a thriving port under the Carthaginians and the Romans. On a tour of the remarkable ruins here, some of which are now submerged, learn about the innovative waterworks and drainage system designed thousands of years ago. (B,L,D) 

Le Boréal

Day 5 — At Sea

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as you make your way across the western Mediterranean, taking advantage of the ship’s superb amenities and joining your Smithsonian Journeys Experts for lectures and informal discussions. Opt for a treatment in the spa or a workout at the fitness center. Meet new friends for coffee or a drink in the lounge, and, if the weather permits, go for a swim in the pool or read a book on the sundeck. (B,L,D) 

Le Boréal

Day 6 — Mahon, Menorca, Spain

The easternmost of Spain’s autonomous Balearic Islands, Menorca is edged in beautiful beaches and rocky coves. Take a walking tour of the lovely capital, Mahón, and learn about the island’s history under many different rulers—from the Moors to the British Empire—at the Menorca Museum.  Less developed than much of the archipelago, Menorca harbors the 4,000-year-old ruins of a Bronze Age Talayotic civilization, now recognized as a World Heritage site. Venture to Torralba d’en Salord to see some of the best-preserved of these megalithic ruins, including unusual t-shaped stone monuments known as taulas. Gain insight into their purpose and cosmological significance as you explore the site. (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 7 — Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca

Your next stop is Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands. Here, limestone cliffs plunge into the sea and almond orchards and vineyards blanket the plains. See the intersection of history and modern-day charms on a tour of Palma de Mallorca, the cosmopolitan capital of the archipelago. Admire the Catalan Gothic architecture of the magnificent sandstone Palma Cathedral, constructed over 300 years beginning in 1230; and stroll along the seaside promenade, soaking up the lively ambiance of the town.  (B,L,D)

Le Boréal

Day 8 — Tarragona/Barcelona

Disembark in Tarragona and transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay in Barcelona. (B)

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

Panoramic view of Valletta, Malta

Slideshow

Optional Extensions

Pre-Cruise Ext.: Malta

Maltese Highlights — 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.

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.

The Phoenicia Malta

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.

The Phoenicia Malta

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 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.

Post-Cruise Ext.: Catalonia

Treasures of Catalonia: Barcelona and Montserrat — 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.

Catalonia enjoys one of the richest cultural heritages in Spain. This specially designed program introduces you to two fascinating elements of that heritage: the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on Montserrat and the modernist marvels of Barcelona.

Day 1 — Disembark | Montserrat

After breakfast aboard the ship, set out on a full-day excursion to the astonishing Monastery of Montserrat. A scenic drive north of Barcelona brings you to the charming town of Monistrol de Montserrat, where you’ll board a cog railway for the steep climb up the serrated limestone mountains to the monastery perched near the summit.

Your guided visit includes the ornate basilica, home to the beloved wooden statue of the Virgin that has drawn pilgrims since the 12th century, and the Montserrat Museum, which houses works by masters such as Monet, Picasso, Casas, and Rusiñol.

Enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch at the Abat Cisneros Restaurant, once the monastery’s stables, followed by free time to further explore this spiritual site on your own.  Arrive in Barcelona and check in to the NH Calderón Hotel, ideally located in the heart of the city on Rambla Catalunya.

NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón

Day 2 — Barcelona, Spain

After breakfast, set off on a guided tour showcasing Barcelona’s architectural treasures and historic heart. Begin with a leisurely walking tour through the Gothic Quarter, passing by the grand Cathedral, Plaça Reial, Plaça Sant Jaume, and Plaça del Rei. Continue to the Born district for a glimpse of the beautiful Santa Maria del Mar and some free time to explore.

Enjoy lunch at Brisa Restaurant, then board your coach for a panoramic drive passing the Arc de Triomf en route to La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece. Begun in 1884 and still unfinished, this extraordinary basilica continues to awe visitors from around the world. Your guided tour will bring Gaudí’s visionary architecture and the ongoing work to life. Return to Barcelona in the afternoon, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón

Day 3 — Barcelona, Spain

After breakfast, check out of the hotel for individual transfers to the airport for your onward flight.

Your hotel:

The NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón is a premium 4-star hotel, perfectly situated on Rambla Catalunya, just steps from top restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Guests can enjoy modern rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, a fitness center, and a welcoming lobby bar.

Your program includes:

  • 2 nights at NH Calderón Hotel (or similar)
  • Transfers and luggage handling from the ship to the hotel on Day 1
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3
  • Breakfast on Days 2 & 3
  • Lunch on Days 1 & 2
  • Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
  • Local English-speaking local guide
  • Gratuities for drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:

  • Transfers from the airport on days other than the scheduled program arrival day
  • Personal expenses and any services or meals not mentioned as included

Please note:

  • It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the program start to secure your transfer.
  • Early check-in and/or late check-out are available subject to availability and at a supplement. Extra nights can be arranged upon request.
  • The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • This post-cruise program is sold as a package. No refunds will be made for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
  • Program is subject to change and offered on a space-available basis.

Dates & Prices

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

Dates

Availability

Price

Oct 10 - 17, 2026
Available
from $8,292

Special Offer

Early booking savings available for a limited time on select categories!

Ship: Le Boréal Experts: Fabien Montcher | Alexander Smith

Superior Stateroom

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

Occupancy Double Single
Price $8,292 $15,894
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

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 $8,932 $16,480 $13,050
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4

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

Occupancy Double Single
Price $9,384 $17,340 $13,720
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5

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

Occupancy Double Single
Price $9,657 $17,860 $14,130
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6

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

Occupancy Double Single
Price $10,024 $18,560 $14,680
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

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 $13,405 $25,000 $19,750
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

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 $14,413 $26,920 $21,270
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

Prestige Stateroom - 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 $14,865 $27,780 $21,940
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240

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 $14,980 $29,180
Pre Ext. $1,620 $2,310
Post Ext. $1,570 $2,240
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

Fabien Montcher
Departure: Oct 10 - 17, 2026

Fabien Montcher

Historian

Fabien Montcher is associate professor of history and director of the Center for Iberian Studies at Saint Louis University. He specializes in the history of …

Fabien Montcher is associate professor of history and director of the Center for Iberian Studies at Saint Louis University. He specializes in the history of knowledge and politics with an emphasis on Iberia from the 1400s to 1800s. His research interests include the Spanish and Portuguese monarchies, the history of empires, the history of history, Mediterranean history; as well as the history of art, food and the environment.

After training as a professional historian in both France and Spain, Fabien moved into American academia to pursue and expand the range of questions that shape his scholarship. He authored a book on Late Renaissance politics, Mercenaries of Knowledge, and is currently writing a new monograph on the political history of citrus fruits. His research has been supported by numerous academic organizations, including the UCLA Clark Library, the American Council of Learned Societies, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Spanish Ministry of Culture, and the Institute for Advanced Study at Princeton. Fabien also cultivates an unquenchable curiosity and enthusiasm for all things related to wine.

+ Show more

Alexander Smith
Departure: Oct 10 - 17, 2026

Alexander Smith

Archaeologist

Dr. Alex Smith holds a PhD in Archaeology from Brown University’s Joukowsky Institute for Archaeology and the Ancient World. He is an Associate Professor of …

Dr. Alex Smith holds a PhD in Archaeology from Brown University’s Joukowsky Institute for Archaeology and the Ancient World. He is an Associate Professor of Anthropology at the State University of New York – Brockport. Dr. Smith was trained in Late Iron Age Mediterranean archaeology, specializing in the Balearic Islands and the Post-Talayotic period, as well as historical archaeology of the United States and the Western Mediterranean. He is the co-director of the Menorca Archaeological Project (MAP) at Torre d’en Galmés, uncovering a well-preserved medieval alqueria, built within and around the remains of the Late Iron Age site. He has previously co-directed and continues to work on projects in Sardinia and has experience excavating in Rome, Petra, the Caribbean, and Guatemala.

He also currently directs a historical archaeological project in rural New York (Frost Town Archaeology) that investigates the industrial heritage and ecological impact of logging in the region. A specialist in GIS and spatial analysis, Dr. Smith is deeply invested in diachronic spaces and the changing use of sites over time, including in the contemporary era. His research is also deeply invested in public access and equity in academia. 

+ Show more

Aneta Georgievska-Shine
Departure: Aug 12 - 19, 2027

Aneta Georgievska-Shine

Art Historian

Aneta Georgievska-Shine is a scholar of the Renaissance and the baroque eras, yet as an art historian, her interests range from ancient to contemporary art.  …

Aneta Georgievska-Shine is a scholar of the Renaissance and the baroque eras, yet as an art historian, her interests range from ancient to contemporary art.  In addition to her affiliation with the University of Maryland, she frequently presents lectures for museums and art institutions in the Washington D.C. area, including the Walters Art Museum, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Virginia Museum of Fine Art, and the Smithsonian. Her publications include scholarly books and numerous articles in U.S. and international journals, as well as essays in exhibition catalogs. Her most recent book, Vermeer and the Art of Love, was named one of Christie’s “best art books to look forward to in 2022” and made the prestigious CHOICE Outstanding Academic Titles list.

A popular Smithsonian Journeys Expert, Aneta has led numerous journeys to France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, as well as Central and Eastern Europe. In addition to expertise in art history, she brings a deep knowledge of the history, politics, and languages of Central and Eastern Europe. Aneta is a native speaker of Macedonian and has working knowledge of several other European languages.

+ Show more

Sanjaya Thakur
Departure: Aug 12 - 19, 2027

Sanjaya Thakur

Classicist

Sanjaya Thakur is professor and chair of classics at Colorado College and has held a number of national leadership positions in the field of classical …

Sanjaya Thakur is professor and chair of classics at Colorado College and has held a number of national leadership positions in the field of classical studies. He  served as the director of the Classical Summer School at the American Academy in Rome from 2021 to 2023 and was the Elizabeth A. Whitehead Scholar at the American School of Classical Studies in Athens from 2022 to 2023. Sanjaya has published numerous articles, primarily on the literature and history of the age of Augustus, Rome’s first emperor. He teaches a wide range of courses on Greek and Roman history, Latin literature, ancient athletics, and Greek and Roman art and archaeology. He also co-directed and organized an Associated Colleges of the Midwest faculty seminar entitled Mediterranean Trivium that was based in Italy.

Sanjaya earned two master's degrees in classical studies and classical art and archaeology as well as a PhD from the University of Michigan. An avid traveler, he has led many study tours through Greece, Italy, and Spain.

+ Show more

Ship

Le Bougainville

Le Bougainville photo

Slideshow Deck Plan

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

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 a 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 is 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. 

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.

Tour Details

Activity Description

Expectations: Ocean-going cruise that may pull into a pier for embarkation and shore excursions and may use tenders at some ports. Excursions will be at a moderately active pace during the morning or afternoon. Some days will require early morning departures (8:30 or 9:00a.m.). Daily activities of three to four hours each day. Some touring is done on foot and includes standing and walking for periods of time (one to three hours) during outdoor activities and tours, city tours, and historic sites. Walking one to two miles will be over sometimes uneven terrain. Swimming and snorkeling will be from catamarans, speedboats and beaches.

Appropriate for: Travelers who are physically fit, lead active lives, are comfortable participating in several hours of daily activities, and expect some physical exertion. 

Reading List

*As an Amazon Associate, Smithsonian Journeys earns from qualifying purchases.

Highly Recommended

The Great Sea: A Human History of the Mediterranean
By: Abulafia, David
Buy Now
Sicily: Three Thousand Years of Human History
By: Benjamin, Sandra
Buy Now
DK Sicily: Must-See Sights. Culture & History. Detailed Maps & Tours. Covers Palermo, Taormina, Mount Etna, & m (Travel Guide)
By: DK Travel
Buy Now
DK Sardinia (Travel Guide)
By: DK Travel
Buy Now

Also Recommended

Palermo: Travels in the City of Happiness: Art, Architecture, and History in Sicily's Ancient Capital
By: Langdale, Allan
Buy Now
Sicily
Buy Now
The Leopard: A Novel
By: Di Lampedusa, Giuseppe
Buy Now
Sardinia in Ancient Times (Classic Reprint)
By: Miley, John David
Buy Now
The Wine-Dark Sea (New York Review Books Classics)
By: Sciascia, Leonardo
Buy Now
The Food of Sicily: Recipes from a Sun-Drenched Culinary Crossroads
By: Lanza, Fabrizia
Buy Now
In Sardinia: An Unexpected Journey in Italy
By: Biggers, Jeff
Buy Now
Bitter Honey: Recipes and Stories from Sardinia
By: Clark, Letitia
Buy Now
The Vacationers: A Novel
By: Straub, Emma
Buy Now
History of the World Map by Map (DK History Map by Map)
By: DK
Buy Now

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.