Traversing 'The Med': A Mediterranean Feast
16 nights
Douglas Mawson
28 Sep '26Cruise overview
Welcome to AE Expeditions’ A Mediterranean Feast Sailing in the wake of historical trade routes, we cross a sea brimming with traditional fare. In eras where olive oil was liquid gold and wine favoured over water, the goods traded on these shores established rituals and lifestyles. From the coastal kitchens of Italy, France and Spain we sail the seas to the island treasure troves of Sardinia, Corsica and Mallorca where we journey to century-old farmhouses, traditional fishing villages, world-class wineries and woodfired kitchens as we immerse ourselves in the culture, traditions and cuisines of the communities who ensure their homeland remains a treasure waiting to be tasted.
Itinerary
Naples
Welcome to Naples. On arrival at Naples 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 Naples. 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 offers time to relax in preparation for our day exploring Naples tomorrow. Accommodation: Naples Hotel (or similar)
Naples, in the Campania region, is Italy’s third largest city. Its claim to fame is the spectacular location along one of the world’s most splendid bays, backed by the perfect cone of Mount Vesuvius. In addition to its beautiful setting, Naples’ surprises with other outstanding attractions such as the Royal Palace, San Carlos Opera House, the impressive National Archaeological Museum and the Castel Nuovo, dating from the 13th-century. The city’s central area is best explored on foot. Chaotic traffic conditions make driving around the city a very frustrating experience. Naples provides a convenient starting point for trips to such favored destinations as Pompeii, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius. The Isle of Capri can be reached via a 45-minute hydrofoil service. The region of Campania was home to Greeks settlers some 300 years before Rome was founded. Pompeii, too, was a Greek town before being conquered by the Romans during the 5th century BC. It was under the Romans that Pompeii flourished and grew prosperous. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the population of 20,000 was wiped out, but dozens of buildings were preserved under layers of cinder more than 20 feet deep. The most important finds from Pompeii are displayed in Naples’ National Archaeological Museum. A visit here will no doubt enhance a visit to ancient Pompeii.
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Naples
Naples
Olbia
Bastia
Nice
Toulon
Sète
Barcelona
Palma de Mallorca
At sea
Granada
Tangier
Cádiz
Portimão
Lisbon
Lisbon
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
