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Barcelona to Nice: A Mediterranean Canvas

Dining
+
Beverages
+
Wi-Fi
+
Shore excursions
£6,149pp
Voyage Code: AURORAART001D
moon 8 nights
anchor Douglas Mawson
calendar 5 Aug '27

Cruise overview

The sun-kissed skies and famed sands of the Spanish and French rivieras have attracted artists for centuries, inspiring works that capture the very essence of this breathtaking stretch of coastline. A voyage in their footsteps promises to be as eccentric and eclectic as the region itself. From the modest studios of Cézanne, Gauguin, and Van Gogh to the Provençal hilltop retreats and opulent seaside villas of Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, and Dalí, their stories showcase the region’s most popular and lesser-known treasures. As we sail, you’ll have the rare chance to create your own ‘Mediterranean Masterpiece,’ guided by our resident artist and onboard photographer. Whether you’re a budding artist, an enthusiastic photographer or simply looking to inspire your imagination, you’ll be encouraged to explore your creativity, all while indulging in the stunning scenery that has fuelled generations of artistic expression. Join us on this unforgettable journey, where you’ll not only discover the creative heart of the region but also craft your very own classic memory of the Mediterranean. Create your own Mediterranean Masterpiece **Sailing a coastline that has inspired generations of artists and the world’s legendary paparazzi, we invite you to explore your own creativity with a series of relaxed onboard art and photography sessions. Join our guest Artistic Director or Resident Photographer for afternoon sessions held onboard, with time beforehand to enjoy a morning ‘Your Choice’ experience ashore. Whether you’re sketching the scenery or styling your shots, you’ll receive gentle guidance, helpful tips, and encouragement in a casual, welcoming environment. Each session is designed for budding artists and hobbyists alike, with the focus on enjoyment rather than perfection. Our photography workshops are designed to enhance your technique and inspire a more artistic, expressive approach to your shots. Places are limited, and passengers may join one afternoon class per day (subject to availability) from Day 3 to Day 6. Spaces can be reserved through our passenger portal, which opens 60 days before departure. As places are limited, we kindly ask that you only book if you genuinely plan to attend so we can ensure as many aspiring artists and photographers as possible have the chance to take part. (Note: on occasion we offer full-day or half-day ‘Your Choice’ experiences due to distances or opening times. These excursions may not return to the ship in time to join an art session).

Barcelona
Barcelona
Port-Vendres
Marseille
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Livorno
Nice
Nice
Nice

Itinerary

Day 1

Barcelona

Bienvenido a España. On arrival at Barcelona airport make your way to the arrivals hall to meet our representative, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Barcelona. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship.


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

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Day 2

Barcelona

Day 3

Port-Vendres

Day 4

Marseille

Day 5

Beaulieu-sur-Mer

Day 6

Livorno

Day 7

Nice

Day 8

Nice

Day 9

Nice

Aurora Stateroom Superiorfrom£6,469pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Cfrom£6,629pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Bfrom£7,029pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Afrom£7,589pp
Balcony Stateroom Superiorfrom£8,229pp
Junior Suitefrom£9,829pp
Captain's Suitefrom£11,189pp
Balcony Stateroom Category A – SoloCall for price
Aurora Stateroom TwinCall for price

Aurora Stateroom Superior

from£6,469pp
Enquire now

Spacious mid-deck rooms with large picture windows offering natural light and ocean views.

Amenities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • TV
  • Safe
  • Desk
  • Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
  • Lounge Area
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Air Conditioning

Ship features

Douglas Mawson brings expedition capability and boutique comfort together, offering travellers an authentic yet luxurious way to experience the Earth’s wild frontiers.

Overview
Accommodation
Dining
Amenities
Wellness
Entertainment
Families
  • 154-guest expedition vessel
  • Ulstein X-Bow for stability and efficiency
  • 15 Zodiacs with four embarkation points
  • Observation lounge and glass atrium
  • Spacious lecture theatre and science centre
  • Outdoor hot tubs and wellness area
  • Sauna and gym with panoramic views
  • Dedicated mudroom and gear storage
  • Modern restaurant and casual lounge bar
  • Expert-led enrichment and daily briefings
Douglas Mawson Accommodation

Accommodation

Douglas Mawson offers 76 staterooms and suites designed for warmth, comfort, and practicality. Each features an en-suite bathroom, seating area, and flexible twin-or-double configuration. Interconnecting cabins suit families or groups, while Balcony Suites provide private outdoor space and premium amenities ideal for extended voyages.

Douglas Mawson Dining

Dining

The main restaurant offers open-seating dining with menus inspired by fresh regional ingredients. Daily meals include international and locally influenced dishes, complemented by complimentary house wines, beers, and soft drinks at dinner. Tea, coffee, and snacks are available throughout the day.

Douglas Mawson Amenities

Amenities

Public spaces include a light-filled observation lounge, library, and science centre. Outdoor decks provide excellent wildlife viewing, while the atrium delivers sweeping forward-facing views. Guests also enjoy a boutique, medical centre, and mudroom for excursion preparation.

Douglas Mawson Wellness

Wellness

After a day of adventure, unwind in the wellness area featuring a sauna, gym, and outdoor hot tubs. Spa treatments and yoga sessions are offered during sea days, ensuring balance between exploration and relaxation.

Douglas Mawson Entertainment

Entertainment

Rather than traditional shows, Douglas Mawson focuses on enrichment. Daily presentations by expedition leaders and guest experts cover geology, wildlife, and polar history. Evenings are relaxed, with social gatherings in the lounge and informal recaps of the day’s discoveries.

Douglas Mawson Families

Families

Although primarily tailored for adult travellers, families with older children are welcome. Interconnecting cabins and engaging educational activities make the Douglas Mawson ideal for multi-generational adventure.