Barcelona to Valletta: Storied Shores of the Med, 21 May 2028

AE Expeditions
Dining
+
Beverages
+
Wi-Fi
+
Shore excursions
£9,779pp
AE Expeditions
Voyage Code: AURORASMA001D
moon 10 nights
anchorDouglas Mawson
calendar 21 May '28

Cruise overview

Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Barcelona to Valletta: Storied Shores of the Mediterranean 

Following ancient trade routes, we sail the islands of the western Mediterranean like stepping stones, calling at storied shores and natural harbours that for centuries welcomed merchants, pilgrims, adventurers, and mariners in search of safe anchorages and new opportunities.  

Along the way, we'll discover islands and coastal towns shaped by their strategic place at these maritime crossroads. From the British-influenced streets of Menorca and the scenic coves of Sardinia's Costa Smeralda to the cliff top citadel of Bonifacio, the archaeological site of Pompeii, and the mythical islands of Capri and Sicily, each destination reveals a chapter in the Mediterranean's deeply interconnected past. 

Rich in culture, layered history, and enduring traditions, this journey invites us to experience this sea as generations of travellers once did, moving from island to island and harbour to harbour along the great coastal highway that connected the storied shores of the Mediterranean.  

Barcelona
Mahón, Menorca
Porto Cervo
Bonifacio, Corsica
Golfo Aranci
Capri
Salerno
Catania
Siracuse, Sicily
Valletta

Itinerary

Day 1

Barcelona

Arrive at Barcelona El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport and transfer to our Embarkation Suite (conditions apply below). Explore Barcelona at your leisure before returning to our Embarkation Suite at the designated times for the group transfer to Douglas Mawson.  

Important information:   

Complimentary airport arrival transfers are provided as group transfers for expeditioners arriving at Barcelona El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport prior to 12:00pm on Day 1 only.  Passengers who arrive after the airport transfer cut-off will need to make their own way to the Embarkation Suite before 2:00 pm to complete mandatory check-in. For passengers already in Barcelona, we ask you to visit our centrally located Embarkation Suite with all luggage, which will be open for mandatory check-in between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.  Passengers have access to our centrally located Embarkation Suite, including luggage storage, Aurora Expeditions staff for voyage and city information and cabin check-in, WIFI, tea, coffee and light refreshments. Embarkation Suite location: to be advised closer to date of departure. As your luggage will be transported to the ship at 2.30pm and ahead of you, please ensure you place any items you require during the day in your day bag, including passports, cash/cards and medicines.  In the late afternoon join a mandatory group transfer to board the Douglas Mawson. After boarding, there’s time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings before we ‘throw the lines’ to begin our voyage.  

This evening, join your fellow travellers for an onboard Welcome Dinner, where your expedition team will introduce you to the expedition ahead and raise a toast to the adventures to come. 

Meals: Dinner onboard 


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

Mahón, Menorca

Day 3

at-sea At sea

Day 4

Porto Cervo

Day 5

Bonifacio, Corsica

Day 6

Golfo Aranci

Day 7

Capri

Day 8

Salerno

Day 9

Catania

Day 10

Siracuse, Sicily

Day 11

Valletta

Aurora Stateroom Superiorfrom£9,779pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Cfrom£10,029pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Bfrom£10,589pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Afrom£11,399pp
Balcony Stateroom Superiorfrom£12,389pp
Junior Suitefrom£14,819pp
Captain's Suitefrom£16,879pp
Balcony Stateroom Category A – SoloCall for price
Aurora Stateroom TwinCall for price

Aurora Stateroom Superior

from£9,779pp
Enquire now

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

AE Expeditions Douglas Mawson Aurora Stateroom Superior Bedroom ©AE Expeditions
AE Expeditions Douglas Mawson Aurora Stateroom Superior Bathroom ©AE Expeditions

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