Ancient shores of the Mediterranean

£5,249pp
Voyage Code: PONANTEG301027
moon 9 nights
anchorLe Bougainville
calendar 30 Oct '27

Cruise overview

In the mild and bright mid-autumn, the Mediterranean is adorned with golden tones and light caresses its ancient shores. Light breezes carry the whispers of civilisations past as the sun kisses the gentle waves, giving them a soothing glow. Between Malta, Italy, Tunisia, Algeria and Spain, sail this legendary sea of exchanges and cultures on a fascinating voyage. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Mediterranean and succumb to the magic of its unique landscapes and historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Experience a cruise where every moment is a journey through history, culture and natural beauty. Take in the spellbinding atmosphere of ancient cities where time seems to stand still, and marvel at the remains of a glorious past, including majestic temples, ruins from antiquity and World Heritage-listed buildings. Discover breathtaking landscapes where the deep blue of the sea meets the golden tones of the Mediterranean coast, and enjoy the tranquillity of places steeped in charm and elegance.

Valletta
Siracuse, Sicily
Porto Empedocle
Tunis
Annaba (ex Bone)
Alger (Algiers)
Cartagena
Melilla
Motril
Málaga

Itinerary

Day 1

Valletta


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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Day 2

Siracuse, Sicily

Day 3

Porto Empedocle

Day 4

Tunis

Day 5

Annaba (ex Bone)

Day 6

Alger (Algiers)

Day 7

Cartagena

Day 8

Melilla

Day 9

Motril

Day 10

Málaga

Deluxe Stateroomfrom£5,249pp
Prestige Stateroom from£5,519pp
Deluxe Suitefrom£9,849pp
Prestige Suitefrom£10,939pp
Privilege Suitefrom£11,749pp
Owner's Suitefrom£18,789pp
Grand Deluxe SuiteCall for price

Deluxe Stateroom

from£5,249pp
Enquire now

Elegant and light-filled, the Deluxe Stateroom features a private balcony, queen-size bed, ensuite bathroom and refined contemporary décor, offering a comfortable and stylish retreat after days of exploration.

Amenities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Lounge Area
  • Vanity Area
  • Suite Benefits
  • Free Mini Bar
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Pillow Menu Available
  • Desk
  • Coffee Machine
  • Air Conditioning

Ship features

Le Bougainville delivers an expedition experience defined by comfort, innovation, and style.

Overview
Accommodation
Dining
Amenities
Wellness
Entertainment
Families
  • Eco-friendly hybrid propulsion system
  • Blue Eye underwater lounge for marine observation
  • Zodiac fleet for daily landings and exploration
  • Heated swimming pool and sun deck
  • Two elegant restaurants with indoor & outdoor seating
  • Spa and fitness area by Sothys
  • Theatre for lectures and performances
  • Open-air marina for water sports
  • All-inclusive dining & premium beverages
  • Expert expedition & naturalist team onboard
Le Bougainville Accommodation

Accommodation

Le Bougainville offers 92 staterooms and suites, each featuring ocean views, a private balcony, and chic nautical styling. Soft tones of cream and taupe create a serene ambience, while high-quality linens and luxury amenities ensure total comfort. Larger suites include spacious living areas and butler service, providing the ideal retreat after a day of adventure.

Le Bougainville Dining

Dining

Dining aboard Le Bougainville celebrates the art of French gastronomy with global influences. The Main Restaurant serves a refined selection of dishes inspired by the destinations visited, while the Grill Restaurant offers casual buffet and à la carte options beside the pool. Fresh seafood, fine wines, and artisanal pastries take centre stage, with open seating that encourages relaxed conversation among guests.

Le Bougainville Amenities

Amenities

Designed to bring guests closer to the sea, Le Bougainville’s public spaces are light-filled and elegantly appointed. The Observation Lounge offers panoramic views, while the Blue Eye Lounge, located below sea level, provides a mesmerising window into the underwater world. The Sothys Spa and gym offer a wellness retreat, and the Pool Deck provides space to relax beneath the open skies.

Le Bougainville Wellness

Wellness

The Sothys Spa offers massages, body wraps, and facials using marine-inspired products. A hammam, hair salon, and dedicated relaxation area complement the experience, while the adjoining fitness room features modern cardio equipment and offers yoga sessions.

Le Bougainville Entertainment

Entertainment

Evenings on Le Bougainville are relaxed and refined. The Theatre hosts cultural performances, documentaries, and expert-led lectures, while the Main Lounge becomes a social hub for live music and cocktails. The Blue Eye Lounge invites guests to unwind as ambient sounds and lighting mirror the rhythm of the ocean — a uniquely Ponant experience.

Le Bougainville Families

Families

Le Bougainville welcomes families seeking immersive, educational travel. Selected voyages feature the PONANT Kids Club, encouraging younger explorers to engage with nature through hands-on learning. Flexible dining, connecting cabins, and safe, intimate spaces make the ship ideal for family adventures.