The Rivieras; A Mediterranean Masterpiece
12 nights
Douglas Mawson
30 Jun '26Cruise overview
Welcome to AE Expeditions’ The ‘Rivieras’: A Mediterranean Masterpiece. The exclusive ‘Rivieras’ have for centuries inspired artists, architects, authors and actors. This voyage entertains us with tales of the famous faces who sculpted anonymous seaside villages and medieval towns into today’s vibrant slice of European glamour. We’ll follow their vision through the eclectic eras of the renaissance, the grand tour, la belle epoque, the Bon Vivants, the swinging sixties and more, as we explore the Mediterranean’s most sought-after stretch of coast.
Itinerary
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. This evening, we celebrate our journey together at a Welcome Event in true Spanish style. The artform of flamenco combines song, guitar and dance as it weaves its story, rousing an emotional reaction from its audience. Originally performed by the Roma peoples of Andalusia, flamenco creates a state of mind that is difficult to ignore. Its musical style, where the lyrics often express loneliness and heartbreak, can be compared to the US blues scene with the intensity of the performance stirring deep sentiment. Tonight, we immerse ourselves in tales of the past, told by Barcelona’s master storytellers in the form of music and dance as we embrace the fervour of flamenco. Accommodation: Barcelona Hotel Meals: Flamenco Welcome Event
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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Barcelona
Port-Vendres
Marseille
Nice
La Spezia
Livorno
Portoferraio
Bastia
Bonifacio, Corsica
Porto Santo Stefano
Rome
Rome
Aurora Stateroom Superior
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.
- 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
