Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
Croatia's Dalmatian Coast by Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys
Venice - Dubrovnik
Dates:
09/07/2026
to
16/07/2026
days
nights on board
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
The eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, the Dalmatian Coast, is rich in the culture and art of the ancient, medieval, and Renaissance worlds and home to some of the most charming and welcoming towns and villages to be found anywhere. The relatively short distances traveled on this voyage (it is less than 350 nautical miles from Venice to Dubrovnik) means that you have ample time to explore each port of call and savor what it has to offer— the time to relax and soak in the sights and sounds, tastes and smells of a very special corner of the world.
After Venice, your first stop is in Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsula, where you may choose to tour the city, once the center of Venetian administration of the peninsula, or participate in a truffle hunt and tasting, or sample the vintages of the Matosecic wine cellar.
A menu of choices awaits you in Zadar: a tour of the ancient city's Roman ruins and medieval churches that includes a tasting of the local maraschino liqueur; or an exploration of the unique vegetation and marine fauna of the uninhabited Kornati Archipelago.
The third day of your voyage begins in Primošten with a visit to Krka National Park and its famous travertine waterfalls, after which you sail to Split, home of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Diocletian's Palace, a massive structure that encloses the entire medieval town. Le Bougainville remains docked here until midnight, affording the opportunity to linger ashore well into the evening.
On the incredibly fertile island of Hvar, known for its fields of rosemary, lavender, and laurel, tour the island’s charming principal town of Stari Grad, or get away from the coast and visit a lavender farm in the countryside, where you will encounter some of the most beautiful views available on Croatia.
About 30 miles from Hvar is the island of Korcula, where a morning tour of the quaint streets of this medieval city, once home to Marco Polo, includes a performance of the Moreška sword dance. During lunch, sail to nearby Mljet Island, which local legend identifies with Calypso and Odysseus’s seven-year dalliance, to explore Mljet National Park.
You will want to be on deck as Le Bougainville sails into the deep, fjord-like Bay of Kotor to the UNESCO World Heritage town of the same name. This delightful place is the pride of Montenegro, and you will have a full day to explore its richly varied history. Or, if you prefer, you may enjoy a leisurely day at a beach club, where you can relax, stroll the beach, and swim.
Set on a rocky peninsula jutting into the sea, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Dubrovnik, the final stop on your voyage, is, despite a devastating earthquake in 1667 and the ravages of many wars, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities.
Ref : VD1245US - EG090726
Your itinerary
A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call. Engaging lectures and...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
02/04/2026 to the 12/04/2026
LE CHAMPLAIN
03/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
LE BORÉAL
14/05/2026 to the 24/05/2026
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
- Engaging lectures and discussions on board with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including archaeologist Suzanne Pilaar Birch. A second Smithsonian Journeys Expert will be confirmed prior to departure.
- Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Venice, Split, Kotor, and Dubrovnik.
- Combine visits of historic cities with forays into the idyllic countryside or crystalline coast.
- Sample local wines and cuisine.
- Visit Krka and Mljet National Parks.
- Experience the nightlife of Split and Hvar.
- Engage with the contemporary culture of these cities, towns, and villages as you discover their past.
Ports of Call & Excursions
9 July 2026 - Venice
Embarkation 09/07/2026 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 09/07/2026 at 22:00
Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.
10 July 2026 - Rovinj
Arrival 10/07/2026 midday
Departure 10/07/2026 early evening
Rovinj is located in Istria, a region bordering Slovenia. This becomes apparent as you walk through its old cobblestoned town. There are many monuments of Venetian influence here. If you study the Balbi arch, you will see the winged lion, symbol of Venice. The bell-tower erected beside Saint Euphemia Cathedral was designed like the bell of Saint Mark in Venice. From the top of the tower, you can scan the entire historical district. To absorb its quaint atmosphere, take a walk in the ochre and sepia-coloured streets leading to bustling squares and terraces shaded by canvas awnings.
11 July 2026 - Zadar
Arrival 11/07/2026 early morning
Departure 11/07/2026 late afternoon
The old fortified city of Zadar stands on peninsula in Northern Dalmatia. It has survived since Antiquity, as the ruins of a Roman forum illustrate. Beside these ruins, the architecture of the church of Saint Donat is Byzantine while the bell-tower of the Cathedral of Saint Anastasia is of Italian design. Your walks in the old town will be punctuated by diverse encounters with history. As you reach the shoreline, you’ll be brought back to modern day because this front is animated by two contemporary architectural creations. Maybe you will hear the sound of the “Sea Organ” music played by the surf and the “ Sun Salutations ” solar light installation reflecting its luminous rays.
12 July 2026 - Primosten
Arrival 12/07/2026 early morning
Departure 12/07/2026 midday
Located south of Sibenik, Primosten is a picturesque village on the Dalmatian Coast, whose charm is distilled, via its narrow streets, through pretty stone houses and an architectural heritage influenced by the Venetian Republic. Built on a rocky peninsula, the historic city was connected to land by a mobile bridge from which it earned its name in the 16th century: in Croatian, primostiti means “to bridge”. The high point of the village, the Church of St. George watches over the stunning bay enveloped in crystal-clear waters while, to the north of the peninsula, the charming beach of Raduca reveals itself between the skies and the pine forest. Further on, the vines of the renowned babić varietal, protected from erosion by low stone walls, complete this idyllic setting.
12 July 2026 - Split
Arrival 12/07/2026 early afternoon
Departure 12/07/2026 late evening
On the Dalmatian coast, the town of Split offers cultural visits in a seaside atmosphere. Close to the seafront shaded by palm trees, the historical centre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a unique building: the Diocletian’s Palace. Here you will explore its galleries, courtyards with carved columns, as well as a former mausoleum converted into a church, namely Saint Domnius Cathedral. If you get peckish, stop off at a terrace in the Pjaca, the main square in the old town, where you can try a palacinka, a kind of pancake topped with melted cheese.
13 July 2026 - Hvar
Arrival 13/07/2026 early morning
Departure 13/07/2026 late evening
Off the coast of Split, Hvar will surprise you by its traditions that have not changed since Antiquity. The country’s oldest town, Stari Grad, is here on this Dalmatian Island. The town nestles by a cove on the north-west coast, surrounded by dry stone wall structures on the Stari Grad plains. These have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site because they were built in the time of the Ancient Greeks. From these parcels of land come wines and olive oil manufactured manually. In the upper part of town, it is possible to discover hams and cheeses made by local producers.
14 July 2026 - Korcula
Arrival 14/07/2026 early morning
Departure 14/07/2026 midday
This harbour town has a very special location, presiding on a spur on the north-eastern coast of the island of Korçula. The ramparts in its medieval district provide perfect vantage points over the Pelješac peninsula. To get there, you can take the monumental staircase in the Revelin Tower. Another way is to climb the steps in the shade of palm trees from the MorskaVrata (Marine portal). As you make your way through the little streets, you’ll see the bell-tower of Saint Mark’s cathedral rise above you. This landmark will help you locate the house where Marco Polo was born. The island also has some of its own famous wines like the red Plavac and the white Posip.
14 July 2026 - Mljet
Arrival 14/07/2026 early afternoon
Departure 14/07/2026 early evening
Discover Mljet Island off the Pelješac peninsula. Known for its national park and its protected forests, this Croatian splendid, pristine island offers many opportunities for walking with bays linked to two salt water lakes. On the largest lake, Veliko Jezero, a small island is home to an old Benedictine monastery.
15 July 2026 - Kotor
Arrival 15/07/2026 early morning
Departure 15/07/2026 late afternoon
Situated in one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, the medieval city of Kotor is a small town full of charm, truly imbued with the traditions and stories of another time. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, this village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has preserved many historical monuments from this epoch. During your stop, be sure to admire the impressive castle that dominates the town, and let yourself fall under the charm of its maze of small streets and intimate squares on which folk festivals featuring magnificent colourful costumes are often organised.
16 July 2026 - Dubrovnik
Arrival 16/07/2026
Disembarkation 16/07/2026 at 08:00
Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon. The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, an underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Decks
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included Features:
- A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including archaeologist Suzanne Pilaar Birch. A second Smithsonian Journeys Expert will be confirmed prior to departure
- Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Venice to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Comprehensive 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bougainville, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
- One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
- Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Dubrovnik at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
Not included:
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Notes:
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis
- Program is subject to change without notice
Special Guest Speaker
On our departures in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, we are joined by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts who will provide an insightful English-language lecture series that enhances your experience with valuable context and new perspectives. From enriching talks to casual conversations on board, their in-depth knowledge will bring you deeper into the history, culture, and natural world of your destination.
Timeless
With one included excursion per day and per guest, and the presence of expert lecturers on board, Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation. A refined way to journey far from the everyday, both in mind and in spirit.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, or aboard local vessels.
- Your experts on board: The dedicated excursion team and one or more guest lecturers.
- Children: Children from one year of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on board Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
A VENETIAN SOJOURN (2 NIGHTS)
This specially curated pre-cruise program is designed to acquaint you with some of the special charms of Venice but also leave ample time for you to pursue other aspects of the city at your own pace and following your own interests. A panoramic tour via water taxi on the first morning serves to orient you to Venice and its neighborhoods, while an excursion on the following day introduces you to some of the city's finest craftsmen—a perfect beginning to your voyage in the Adriatic Sea.
Day 1 – Venice
Arrive at the Venice airport, where you will be met and escorted to the Starhotel Splendid Venice, your home for the next two nights. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and answer any questions you may have. This evening, gather with fellow travelers for a sunset aperitif on the hotel terrace. Dinner is independent.
Day 2 – Venice | Cruising the Lagoon
After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide for a leisurely cruise via private water taxi of some of the 118 islands that make up the city of Venice. Begin by cruising past the island of Murano, for centuries the center of the Venetian tradition of glassmaking, and past San Michele, the city’s historic cemetery island. Continuing along the Fondamente Nuove, enjoy sweeping views of Venice’s skyline, before following the broad Canale della Giudecca through a more tranquil neighborhood. Proceed along a section of the iconic Grand Canal, Venice’s main artery, lined with ornate palazzi—the legacy of the city’s maritime empire. A highlight of the excursion is a stop at the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. Here, you disembark to explore its serene church and perhaps climb the bell tower for breathtaking views across the basin to St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and the domes of the Basilica.
Return to the hotel, where the balance of the day is at leisure. Lunch and dinner are independent.
Day 3 – Venice | Embark
Venice, like most cities, has a long history of craftsmanship—pottery, woodworking, jewelry making, and so on. But in addition to these traditional crafts, there are two that are uniquely identified with Venice: mask making and gondola building. This morning's excursion begins with a leisurely stroll through the Dorsoduro and Santa Croce districts to visit a mask-maker's atelier. In the workshop, you will see the variety of masks for which Venice is known—from classic Bauta and Moretta to the long-nosed Plague Doctor design—and a master artisan will give a brief history of the masks, explaining their roles at Carnivale and in the theater. Observe as craftsmen demonstrate making a mask of papier-mâché and decorating it. Leaving the mask maker, follow your guide along the waterfront to one of the two remaining squeri (boatyards where gondolas are made). During your visit, you will see skilled craftsmen at work, repairing damage and maintaining the gondola's seaworthiness. As you watch, your guide will explain the ancient methods being used, which are passed from generation to generation so that these black boats, so central to Venetian history, continue to be made entirely by hand.
Return to the hotel, where time is at leisure for lunch and independent activities until you transfer to San Basilio Port to embark Le Bougainville and set sail.
Your hotel:
The Splendid Venice is a 4-star property in the center of the city, near St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace. It features 165 rooms, a restaurant, two lounge bars, 24-hour room service, marvelous views of the surrounding area, and all of the services you would expect from a luxury hotel in a major European city.
Your program includes:
· 2 nights at The Splendid Venice (or similar)
· Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day
· Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the ship on the day of embarkation
· Welcome Reception on Day 1
· Breakfast on days 2 and 3
· Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
· Local English-speaking guide
· Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
· Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program departure day
· Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
· It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.
· Early check-in can be arranged, depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
· The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
· This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
· Program is offered on a space available basis.
· Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
The Splendid Venice
S. Marco Mercerie, 760
30124 Venice
Italy
Telephone: +39 041 5200755
Total : £1,570
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.