Ancient shores of the Mediterranean

Cruise overview

Sail along the Mediterranean shorelines and explore centuries of history during this exceptional journey between the eastern Spanish coast, North African shores and Sicily. During this 10-day cruise aboard Le Boréal, you will be amazed by the Mediterranean and its civilisations, a crossroads of exchange, the cradle of a unique way of life weaved together from fascinating cultures.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, attend a cavalcade at a finca in Cartagena, explore the history-laden streets of the Casbah, the jewel of Algiers ’s heritage, or marvel at Greek, Norman and Baroque influences during a walk on the island of Ortygia in Syracuse. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).

Malaga, a sun-kissed city on the Costa del Sol and the birthplace of famous painter Pablo Picasso, marks the start of your Mediterranean odyssey.

Andalusia soon makes way for Murcia. You will arrive in Cartagena, a former Roman colony where there is still a majestic amphitheatre. As you roam the city, you will discover the many monuments reflecting its numerous influences and rich history.

You will leave the Iberian Peninsula for the African shores of the Mediterranean. You will follow in the footsteps of the Andalusian sailors who, in 902, crossed the Mediterranean to found Oran. “The radiant”, as it is dubbed, will be your gateway to Algeria, its secrets and its elusive poetry.

Algiers shines in the distance. From its legendary bay, the houses of its Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, seem to leap onto the Haussmann-style buildings of the sea front. The architectural styles mingle, the different eras find harmony, and the energy of the metropolis is captivating.

Le Boréal resumes its journey to head for the Tunisian shores and capital, Tunis. Rome’s great rival, Ancient Carthage, is yours to discover as you visit its ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sicily, jewel of the Mediterranean, is the last port of call of this musical journey.  Trapani and its ancient past welcome you for a dive into the heritage of the Mediterranean’s largest island. In Palermo, the soul of Sicily exudes the perfumes of picturesque markets while history unveils itself. Its 12th-century cathedral and its Teatro Massimo opera house – one of the largest in Europe – make its city centre a real treasure chest with multiple cultural influences. In Syracuse, the Sicilian soul unfolds across the island of Ortygia – the oldest part of the city -, a maze of small streets dotted with churches, palaces, ancient remnants, sheltering a majestic cathedral in its very heart. 

Your cruise will come to an end in Valletta, capital of the island of Malta and former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.