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Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea

8-9 days from $8,350

Aboard a 184-guest small ship

Voyage by Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Climb aboard in Barcelona and sail the length of France’s southern coast, dropping anchor to explore medieval villages, ancient Roman sites, and charming Provençal towns. Continue along the Italian Riviera to the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, and explore gems of art and history in Tuscany on excursions to Pisa, Lucca, Florence, or Volterra.

Ocean Cruising

or Call 855-330-1542

Highlights

The 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.

  • Carcassonne, France: Spend a day discovering turrets and ramparts of the medieval walled city of Carcassonne, a World Heritage site that seems straight out of a fairy tale.
  • Provence and the Côte d’Azur: Explore charming Aix-en-Provence, encounter the Roman ruins and the haunts of Van Gogh in Arles, or explore the Papal Palace in Avignon. Alternatively, take in the views from the medieval hilltop village of Èze or visit the artists' colony of St. Paul de Vence and the Maeght Foundation. In 2027, opt to visit the enclave of Monte Carlo instead. 
  • Italian Riviera: Sail along the Italian Riviera to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino, and take a walking tour.
  • Cinque Terre and Tuscany: Cruise in local boats to Monterosso and Vernazza and enjoy time to explore the Cinque Terre villages. Or visit the historic Tuscan towns of Lucca and Pisa. Then encounter revered Renaissance art in fabled Florence or visit Roman ruins and the Etruscan Museum in Volterra.

Itinerary

To see itinerary, please click on an option below.

Sep 23–Oct 1, 2026: 9 days

Day 1 — Barcelona, Spain

Arrive in Barcelona and transfer to the port. Embark our ship and begin your voyage north toward France. (D) 

Le Champlain

Day 2 — Carcassonne, France

Dock in Sète and travel inland to the fortified medieval city of Carcassonne. Spend the day discovering the ramparts, turrets, and towers of this World Heritage site and learn about its restoration at the hands of 19th-century architect Viollet-le-Duc, said to have invented modern restoration techniques. (B,L,D) 

Le Champlain

Day 3 — Marseille and Provence

Anchor in Marseille, France’s oldest city, and travel into Provence on your choice of excursions. Tour the boulevards and squares of Aix-en-Provence, an elegant university town known for its baroque architecture and for its native sons Émile Zola and Paul Cézanne. Or visit Arles, once a bustling Roman city founded by Julius Caesar. See its impressive Roman amphitheater, and trace the steps of Vincent Van Gogh, who spent one of the most prolific periods of his career in the city. Or drive along the Rhône to Avignon, seat of the papacy for much of the 14th century. Visit the extraordinary Papal Palace and enjoy time to explore the charming old town. (B,L,D)

Le Champlain

Day 4 — Nice, St. Paul de Vence / Eze

Sail along the Côte d’Azur to Nice, named a World Heritage site in 2021. Explore this cosmopolitan seaside city, long considered a winter resort for Europeans. Alternatively, journey to the picturesque hilltop town of Eze for a stroll along its medieval streets. Or travel to St. Paul de Vence and view the modern art at the Maeght Foundation. (B,L,D)

Le Champlain

Day 5 — Portofino, Italy and the Italian Riviera

Cruise past the elegant resort towns that dot the rugged shores of the Italian Riviera. Anchor in Santa Margherita Ligure and travel to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino. Take a walking tour of its winding lanes, lined with houses painted in warm hues. Then enjoy time at leisure to explore this magical spot on your own. (B,L,D) 

Le Champlain

Day 6 — Cinque Terre or Lucca and Pisa

Set off in private boats from Portovenere to visit two of the villages of the Cinque Terre—Monterosso and Vernazza—on foot. Or travel into Tuscany to discover the historic walled town of Lucca and visit Pisa, once an important Roman port now known best for its famously leaning tower. (B,L,D) 

Le Champlain

Day 7 — Florence or Volterra

Immerse yourself in the spectacular Renaissance city of Florence, encountering some of its most iconic artistic treasures, from Brunelleschi’s dome to Michelangelo’s David. Tour the city’s piazzas and churches, and learn how the city’s Medici family shaped art history. Alternatively, ascend to hilltop Volterra and visit Roman ruins and the Etruscan Museum, where an impressive collection of artifacts traces the rich legacy of this ancient civilization. (B,L,D) 

Le Champlain

Day 8 — Bonifacio, Corsica

Follow the coast of Corsica to the fortress town of Bonifacio, perched on cliffs high above the sea. Set off into the labyrinthine streets of the medieval Citadel, visiting churches and historic monuments. Or choose to ride a local boat along the coast, exploring grottos tucked within the dramatically eroded limestone cliffs. (B,L,D)

Le Champlain

Day 9 — Civitavecchia, Italy

After breakfast, disembark in Civitavecchia, northwest of Rome, and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

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

A Mediterranean view from hilltop Eze, France

Slideshow

Optional Extensions

Pre-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 — Barcelona, Spain

Arrive in Barcelona, where you will be met and transferred to the NH Calderón Hotel, ideally located in the heart of the city on Rambla Catalunya. Check-in time is 3:00PM. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and offer suggestions for dining and independent exploration.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for a cocktail reception at the hotel to kick off your journey. Dinner is on your own.

NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón

Day 2 — Barcelona | Montserrat

After breakfast, 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. Return to Barcelona in the afternoon, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón

Day 3 — Barcelona | Embark

After breakfast and check-out, 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.

Following the visit, transfer directly to the port to embark your ship in the late afternoon.

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 airport on Day 1
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the pier on Day 3
  • Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1
  • Breakfast on Days 2 & 3
  • Lunch on Days 2 & 3
  • 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 pre-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.

Post-Cruise Ext.: Rome

Roman 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 program is carefully curated to give you a taste of the treasures of Rome and to introduce you to some of its most important monuments. The visit to Castel Gandolfo on the second day is a special treat, immersing you in the beauty of the countryside and in the relaxed atmosphere along the shore of Lake Albano.

Day 1 — Disembark | Civitavecchia | Rome

After breakfast aboard, drive into Rome, where your exploration of the Eternal City begins with a panoramic tour of its major monuments—the Caracalla Baths, Tiberina Island, Circus Maximus, and Villa Borghese Park. Then, leaving the coach behind, follow your guide on a walking tour of some of the most famous piazzas and fountains in Rome, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Navona Square.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, and walk the Via Sacra, the route followed by generations of Romans as they worshipped their emperors and celebrated their triumphs when Rome considered itself the center of the world, “Caput Mundi." Stroll among the monuments of Palatine Hill, erected to memorialize grand victories, and of course, marvel at the Colosseum, symbol of the Roman Empire. A masterpiece of classical architecture, the Colosseum is an enormous amphitheater in which some 50,000 spectators could watch as gladiators battled to the death, wild beasts were unleashed on human prey, and whatever other entertainments were organized for their amusement.

Rejoin your coach for a short ride to the historic Sina Bernini Bristol Hotel, your home for the next two nights. The evening is at leisure and dinner is independent.

Sina Bernini Bristol

Day 2 — Rome

Today's excursion is to the resort town of Castel Gandolfo, about an hour south of Rome on the shores of Lake Albano. Toward the end of the 1st century CE, the Roman emperor Domitian built an enormous residence here, some remains of which are still visible. But the focus of your visit will be on the Papal enclave, which served as the Pope's summer retreat from the 17th century.

Begin your tour of this spectacular 135-acre property with a drive through the estate's magnificent gardens, including a stop at the Papal farm, where organic produce is grown on site. Continue to the Apostolic Palace, the former Papal residence, converted to a museum by Pope Francis in 2016, for a guided tour, including access to the Pope's private apartments. At the end of your visit, enjoy time at leisure to browse the charming town of Castel Gandolfo before sitting down to lunch at a local restaurant with views over the lake.

On your return to Rome and the Hotel Bernini Bristol, the balance of the day is at leisure. Dinner is independent.

Sina Bernini Bristol

Day 3 — Rome | Depart 

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

Your hotel:

Located in heart of Rome, the historic Sina Bernini Bristol is one of the most famous 5-star hotels in the Eternal City. Once the hotel of choice for Russian Tsars, Princes of Wales, the Rockefellers, and the Vanderbilts, the Bernini Bristol enjoys a privileged location between Piazza Barberini and Via Veneto, just a few minutes’ walk from the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. The bedrooms are well appointed in classic and contemporary style. Each room features an Italian marble tile bathroom, satellite TV, a safe, minibar, and hairdryer. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views, as well as a spa and fitness center.

Your program includes:

  • 2 nights at the Sina Bernini Bristol (or similar).
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the pier to the hotel on Day 1.
  • Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3.
  • Lunch on Days 1 and 2.
  • 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:

  • Late check-out is 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 program involves a lot of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and steps, and is not suitable for guests with mobility issues.
  • 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

Sep 23 - Oct 1, 2026
Available
from $10,785

Ship: Le Champlain Experts: Ross King | Leslie Schumacher

Deluxe Stateroom

Deluxe stateroom (204 sq. ft.), picture window with door onto private partial wall balcony (43 sq. ft.). Deck 3.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $10,785 $20,561
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4

Prestige stateroom (204 sq. ft.), sliding glass door opens to private balcony (43 sq. ft.).

Occupancy Double Single
Price $11,930 $22,850
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5

Prestige stateroom (204 sq. ft.), sliding glass door opens to private balcony (43 sq. ft.).

Occupancy Double Single
Price $12,518 $24,026
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6

Prestige stateroom (204 sq. ft.), sliding glass door opens to private balcony (43 sq. ft.).

Occupancy Double Single
Price $13,190 $25,370
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Deluxe Suite

Deluxe suite (291 sq. ft.), sliding glass door to private balcony (65 sq. ft.), sitting area with sofa. Decks 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $18,219 $35,429
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Prestige Suite - Deck 5

Prestige suite, two room suite (409 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 $24,509 $48,008
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Prestige Suite - Deck 6

Prestige suite, two room suite (409 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 $25,769 $50,528
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Privilege Suite

Privilege suite, (344 sq. ft.), sliding glass door to larger private balcony (86 sq. ft.), sitting area with sofa convertible to single twin. Decks 5 and 6.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $27,029 $53,048
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Grand Deluxe Suite

Grand Deluxe suite, extra large two room suite (484 sq. ft.), sliding glass door to spacious private terrace (323 sq. ft.), a large sitting area with half bath, master bedroom has a separate shower, tub, and double sinks. Deck 6.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $29,654 $58,298
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340

Owner's Suite

Owner's suite, extra large two room suite (484 sq. ft), sliding glass door to spacious private terrace (323 sq. ft.) with outdoor hot tub. Large sitting area with half bath, master bathroom has a separate shower, tub, and double sinks. Deck 5.

Occupancy Double Single
Price $29,700 $58,390
Pre Ext. $1,630 $2,280
Post Ext. $2,220 $3,340
Le Champlain 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

Ross King
Departure: Sep 23 - Oct 1, 2026

Ross King

Art Historian & Author

Dr. Ross King is the bestselling author of books on Italian and French art and history, including "Brunelleschi's Dome" (2000), "Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling" …

Dr. Ross King is the bestselling author of books on Italian and French art and history, including Brunelleschi's Dome (2000), Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling (2002), and Leonardo and The Last Supper (2012). His study of the origins of French Impressionism, The Judgment of Paris, was published in 2006, and Mad Enchantment: Claude Monet and the Painting of the Water Lilies in 2016. He is the co-author with Anja Grebe of Florence: The Paintings & Frescoes, 1250-1743 (2015), the most comprehensive book ever undertaken on the art of Florence. His current project is a two-volume history of Italy, The Shortest History of Ancient Romeand The Shortest History of Italy, covering some 3,000 years of history from Romulus and Remus to the present.

Ross has also appeared in a number of television documentaries, such as The Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance (PBS, 2003), Raphael: A Mortal God (BBC, 2004), The Great Cathedral Mystery (Nova, 2014), Florence's Invisible City (BBC, 2016), and, most recently, Ken Burns's Leonardo da Vinci (2024).

Ross serves on the Council of Academic Advisors for Friends of Florence, a fundraising charity ensuring the survival of Florence's art and architectural treasures. He has participated in numerous Friends of Florence tours throughout Italy and Sicily, and is a regular participant in Italian Renaissance seminars at the Aspen Institute, including programs on Giotto, St. Francis, and Dante. He has lectured in many American museums, including the Smithsonian, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Frick Collection, and the National Gallery of Art. When not traveling for work or pleasure, Ross lives near Oxford, England, with his wife Melanie.

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Leslie Schumacher
Departure: Sep 23 - Oct 1, 2026

Leslie Schumacher

Foreign Affairs Specialist

Leslie Rogne Schumacher is a professor at Harvard University, where he teaches courses on international relations, global leadership, and civil discourse. He also serves as faculty …

Leslie Rogne Schumacher is a professor at Harvard University, where he teaches courses on international relations, global leadership, and civil discourse. He also serves as faculty affiliate in Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science & International Affairs. Leslie previously held positions in the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania; Cornell University; Wells College; and the Sant’Anna Institute in Sorrento, Italy. He continues to sit on the Fulbright Committee for European Programs at Cornell. From 2016 to 2019, Leslie served as the fourth David H. Burton Fellow at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.

Leslie earned his PhD in European and Middle Eastern history from the University of Minnesota and is widely published in the fields of Mediterranean studies, British history, refugee affairs, and diplomacy and international relations. Following the publication of his first book, The Eastern Question in 1870s Britain: Democracy and Diplomacy, Orientalism and Empire (2023) he was elected a fellow of the Royal Historical Society. His forthcoming book, Transnational Nationalism in the Mediterranean Sea: Origins and Aftermaths (2026), explores nationalist views of the Mediterranean in Italy, Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, and Libya. His passion for outreach education led him to work on refugee resettlement efforts in Greater Philadelphia, for which he was rewarded with an appointment as a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. He also serves as academic director of the Great Books Summer Program. 

Leslie is a popular speaker and is regularly consulted by major media outlets on foreign policy, European and Middle Eastern affairs, and immigration policy. In his spare time, he and his wife, a professor at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design and an expert on ancient Pompeii, enjoy traveling, biking, hiking, skiing, and reading. They divide their time between Cambridge, Quebec, Italy, and Poland.

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Dianne Konz
Departure: Sep 1 - 8, 2027

Dianne Konz

Cultural Historian

Dianne Konz is an independent scholar specializing in Iberia and the Western Mediterranean. She has led numerous Smithsonian Study Tours to Spain and Portugal, and …
Dianne Konz is an independent scholar specializing in Iberia and the Western Mediterranean. She has led numerous Smithsonian Study Tours to Spain and Portugal, and has been a Smithsonian destination speaker for Iberia, Italy, and Morocco on several cruises. Dianne has lived and studied in Spain and Italy, and has a special passion for integrating the cultural arts –painting, architecture, literature, music, and gastronomy –with history, politics, and geography. Her areas of expertise include Roman Iberia and the growth of urban culture, the Moorish invasion and subsequent Islamic Golden Age, and the Christian Reconquest as a foundation of modern Spain. Dianne has also traveled extensively in France and has a special interest in the French Modernists. Her current research includes the interaction between French and Spanish artists of the late 19th- early 20th centuries. Dianne received her doctorate in Spanish from the University of Texas at Austin, and has taught at UT as well as at George Washington University.

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David Scott Silverberg
Departure: Sep 1 - 8, 2027

David Scott Silverberg

Geographer

David Scott Silverberg is an expert in earth sciences, geography, and conservation biology. Born in New York, David has lived most of his life abroad, …

David Scott Silverberg is an expert in earth sciences, geography, and conservation biology. Born in New York, David has lived most of his life abroad, working in more than 125 countries—including 16 years in Norway, seven years in Germany, 10 years in northern Italy, and four years in Morocco. He is an active mountaineer and has explored the Himalaya, Andes, Atlas, Alps, and beyond.

A fellow of the Explorers Club and the Royal Geographical Society, David is a passionate experiential educator who has designed and taught graduate and undergraduate field programs around the world for numerous universities. He served as executive director of Earthwatch Institute Center for Field Research, and helped launch Americorps as the associate director for environment programs at the White House. David received his PhD from MIT and his post-doc from Harvard University.

With support from the National Science Foundation, National Geographic Society, and the American Alpine Club, David has produced numerous peer-reviewed papers on the formation of the Alps and the Himalaya. His current research investigates the geographic determinants of culture and history as well as the effects of biodiversity loss and changes in climate, land cover, and oceans. He has published many articles and books about the Himalaya, Alps, and Apennines, covering topics ranging from ecology to bridge engineering to wine and cuisine.

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Ship

Le Champlain

Le Champlain 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 2018, Le Champlain 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, complimentary 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 sound 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 will involve embarkation and disembarkation at piers for shore excursions as well as boarding tenders and other landing craft for some activities. Days can be full, with activities starting as early as 8:00 am and lasting four or more hours. Many activities, such as walking tours, museum visits, and site visits, necessitate standing and walking for extended periods of time (two or more hours). Participants should be prepared to walk up to two miles per day, sometimes on uneven terrain, such as cobblestones in towns, historic sites, and unpaved trails; and to climb or descend stairs with or without handrails, as elevators will not always be available. 

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

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.