Valletta to Venice: An Adriatic Renaissance
11 nights
Douglas Mawson
17 Jul '26Cruise overview
Welcome to AE Expeditions’ An Adriatic Renaissance This unique voyage traces the ebb and flow of time, from the fortified city of Valletta to the island haven of Venice, following the paths of legendary figures who have shaped this coast. From the St John’s Knights Hospitaller to the adventures of Marco Polo and the spiritual journeys of centuries of pilgrims, our trip embodies the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure. Whether visiting the ancient city of Split, the imperial harbours of Dubrovnik and Ravenna, or the charming town of Alberobello and the hilltop Republic of San Marino, we encounter tales of heroism, intrigue and enduring legacies. Here, the stories of knights, merchants, legions and explorers combine to celebrate their courage, curiosity and resilience, leading us to the modern-day wonder that is the Adriatic’s ‘Renaissance’.
Itinerary
Valletta
Welcome to Malta. On arrival at Valletta 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 Valletta. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship. Today offers time to relax in preparation for our journey. Join us for a Welcome event this evening, where we honour the bravery of the Maltese people and hear wartime tales of courage against seemingly insurmountable odds, from a local expert. Accommodation: Valletta Hotel Meals: Welcome Event canapés
Malta’s capital, the minicity of Valletta, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-color limestone. Houses along the narrow streets have overhanging wooden balconies for people-watching from indoors. Generations ago they gave housebound women a window on the world of the street. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta’s compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. City Gate and the upper part of Valletta are experiencing vast redevelopment that includes a new Parliament Building and open-air performance venue. The complex, completed mid-2013, has numerous pedestrian detours in place along with building noise and dust. Before setting out along Republic Street, stop at the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures.
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Valletta
Reggio di Calabria
Gallipoli
Bari
Dubrovnik
Split
Ancona
Ravenna
Rovinj
Venice
Venice
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
