Superior Stateroom Deck 3
226 ft²
3
The jewels of the Aegean
Antalya - Athens
Dates:
17/05/2025
to
24/05/2025
days
nights on board
Sail the Greek and Turkish shores during an exceptional journey, an 8-day cruise aboard L’Austral, during which you will fall under the spell of these island jewels and secular cities, featuring ancient ruins and splendid scenery, which people the Eastern Mediterranean.
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, visit the archaeological site of Ephesus from Kusadasi, discover the monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse where the last book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle,from Patmos, or admire the sumptuous archaeological sites, from the Temples of Zeus, Apollo and Athena to the Terrace of the Lions, from Delos. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab). The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From Antalya, a former Roman port with picturesque alleyways and fine Ottoman residences, L’Austral will sail south for the Dodecanese archipelago. On the mythical island of Rhodes, let yourself be swept away by the charm of this medieval city with its gothic architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, the island of Patmos, known as “the Jerusalem of the Aegean Sea”, reveals itself to offer you a moment suspended between unique landscapes of white-sand beaches and rocky bays.
L’Austral will leave Greece to reach Kusadasi in Turkey. An old fishing village with history going back 5,000 years, not far from the Ephesus site, the town is now one of the country’s most famous seaside resorts.
In the south-eastern Aegean Sea, the Cyclades archipelago invites you to enjoy the wild and appealing beauty of its islands. Santorini, one of the pearls of the archipelago, awaits you for an enchanted interlude, unfurling the grandiose crater of its caldera. Then, Delos, a veritable open-air museum, offers a unique testimony of the succession of different civilisations during the Aegean period. Next comes Mykonos, its beaches and windmills, with Alefkandra, a district that is typical of the island, with houses built right on the water’s edge.
Further north, you will arrive in Nafplio, the departure point for discovering the Ancient Theatre ofEpidaurus and the Mycenae archaeological site, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Athens, the mythical city dominated by the Acropolis and its monuments, which form the most extraordinary architectural and artistic ensemble bequeathed to the world by Ancient Greece, will mark the end of this exceptional odyssey.
Ref : AU170525
Your itinerary
A cruise to discover the finest ancient sites of Greece, with one port of call in Turkey. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Napflion, the sacred island of Delos, the...
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Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Superior Stateroom Deck 3
(226 ft²)
Fully booked
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
(193 ft²)
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
(290 ft²)
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 5
(398 ft²)
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 6
(398 ft²)
Fully booked
Owner's Suite Deck 6
(484 ft²)
Fully booked
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
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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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
05/11/2025 to the 23/11/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
03/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
*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
- Dyptique 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)
- Three 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
Highlights
- A cruise to discover the finest ancient sites of Greece, with one port of call in Turkey.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Napflion, the sacred island of Delos, the monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse in Patmos, the historical sites of Ephesus from Kusadasi,
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- Discover the pearls of the Cyclades: Santorini, Delos, Mykonos and their ancient ruins, typical landscapes and beaches.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
17 May 2025 - Antalya
Embarkation 17/05/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 17/05/2025 at 18:00
On the Turkish Mediterranean coast, discover the seaside resort of Antalya. While the city sports magnificent fine sandy beaches, it is also known for its significant historical heritage. Many vestiges bear witness to the importance of this former Roman port, such as Hadrian's Gate, built in the year 130 in honour of the visiting emperor. In the old town, it is possible to admire magnificent Ottoman houses with flowery gardens, as well as the broken minaret, built on the ruins of a former Byzantine church. The city’s surroundings also provide an opportunity to discover major archaeological sites, such as that of the ancient city of Aspendos, renowned for its impressive Roman theatre.
18 May 2025 - Rhodes
Arrival 18/05/2025 early morning
Departure 18/05/2025 late afternoon
With its particularly agreeable climate, the island of Rhodes invites you to walk its pathways and discover its immaculate villages and sumptuous medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. At the centre of the island the mountains are covered in forest and on the western slopes we find vineyards and crops. Rhodes also owes much of its charm and its character to the Knights of St John who reigned over the island from 1310 to 1522 and built impressive defensive walls punctuated with majestic gateways. Do not miss this delightful island with its peaceful beaches and its large walkways, perpetuating the myth of the famous Colossus, the legendary statue that is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
19 May 2025 - Patmos
Arrival 19/05/2025 early morning
Departure 19/05/2025 evening
Patmos is one of the legendary must-see islands in the Dodecanese. This is where Saint John resided, presumed author of the last book in the Bible. The cave of the Apocalypse and the Saint John Monastery are dedicated to him. These sites, which are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are located at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer absolutely gorgeous swimming areas.
20 May 2025 - Kusadasi
Arrival 20/05/2025 early morning
Departure 20/05/2025 evening
The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. You can bathe there in clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk, in the shade of palms. In the historical district, you can take a mosey down the narrow streets and explore the colourful shops in the bazaar. Close by, the Ephesus archaeological site in the hillsides provides an opportunity to discover the ruins of one of the most famous cities of Antiquity.
21 May 2025 - Santorini
Arrival 21/05/2025 early morning
Departure 21/05/2025 evening
The spectacular volcanic island of Santorini stands out proud in the Cyclades. Its basalt cliffs offer particularly expansive views of the Aegean. To enjoy these views, you can head for the capital, Fira. Its floral belvederes of bougainvillea provide a bird’s-eye view of several thousand metres of coastline. Further away, the gorgeous village of Oia looks like a stairway of blue and white houses on the slopes of the volcano. In the south of the island, you will be able to visit the stunning ruins of Akrotiri, an ancient city destroyed by an eruption and covered with a thick layer of lava stone.
22 May 2025 - Delos
Arrival 22/05/2025 early morning
Departure 22/05/2025 midday
This legendary Cyclades island of Delos stands just a few miles southwest of Mykonos. The ceremonial solemnity of this ancient holy sanctuary will not leave you indifferent. The sheer size and importance of this UNESCO World Heritage site which covers over half of the island is thrilling in itself. From the Stoa of Antigonos, the Terrace of the Lions, to the carved marble animal statues, you will make discovery after discovery, against a backdrop of the Aegean stretching to the horizon. The theatre steps on the hillside are a particularly good place from which to enjoy the expansive view.
22 May 2025 - Mykonos
Arrival 22/05/2025 midday
Departure 22/05/2025 evening
Nicknamed “little Venice”, Mykonos is famous for its Alefkandra district where houses are built right on the water’s edge. Their multi-coloured loggias are emblematic of this Cyclades island, as are the pelicans and windmills. You can get close up to the birds on the quaysides of the old port. Up on the hillside, you can see the windmill sails turning. In the cobbled streets of the pedestrian centre, bougainvillea bedeck immaculate facades. As you weave in and out of the little streets, snatches of coastline will undoubtedly call you to the island’s beaches, the quietest of which can be found on the northern coast.
23 May 2025 - Nafplion
Arrival 23/05/2025 early morning
Departure 23/05/2025 late afternoon
The engaging town of Nafplion is staggered up green hillsides of the Argolic Gulf, to the east of the Peloponnese. Do not be surprised by its extremely varied cultural heritage. Some of the must-see visits are the ancient agora on the plateau of Akronafplia, Italianate arcades in Syntagma square as well as the baroque fortress of Palamidi on a hillside of the same name. At the top of the hill, views of the gulf and the surrounding mountains are simply awesome. If you want to chill out by the water’s edge, walk along the Arvanitia promenade to a beautiful creek in the shade of cedars and cypresses.
24 May 2025 - Athens
Arrival 24/05/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 24/05/2025 at 07:00
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
The Acropolis of Lindos
Overlooked by its acropolis and enjoying a charming setting, Lindos is one of Rhodes’ natural jewels and has great appeal thanks to its captivating natural environment and its ancient history.
The Acropolis of Lindos, which forms a rocky promontory that towers over the town, has been used since the 6th century BC as a citadel and place of worship successively by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, the Knights of St. John, and the Ottomans. It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Rhodes.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive amidst orange and lemon groves, prosperous vineyards, and fields of gnarled olive trees. You will discover Lindos through the rocky cliffs of the acropolis surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Spread out below you is the village of Lindos and its pretty whitewashed houses; the streets are paved with intricately patterned black and white pebbles collected from the sea.
As you begin your climb up the footpath to the summit, the first ruins you will see are the walls built by the crusaders in the early 14th century atop ancient fortifications. When you reach the top, you will pass through ramparts constructed by the Knights of St. John to defend against the Ottomans, then enter the acropolis complex. Here, making the most of stunning 360° views, you will discover the remains of the 4th-century Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and the imposing columns of the Hellenistic Stoa, as well as a Byzantine church and other ruins of the Knights' citadel.
Returning to the town, you will have some free time to browse the shops brimming with attractive souvenirs.
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This excursion involves up to two hours of walking. The approach to the acropolis is steep. You should be in good physical condition to participate and we recommend you protect yourself against the sun. We recommend you wear walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The city of the Knights Hospitaller
Discover the Medieval City of Rhodes during a guided walking tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable for its Gothic architecture, which coexists with mosques and public baths dating back to the Ottoman period.
Wander through the cobbled streets to the impressive Palace of the Grand Master, constructed in the 14th century, and admire the Greek and Turkish mosaics from the island of Kos. Following the palace visit, you will walk along the famous Street of the Knights of Rhodes, edged with old inns, each dedicated to one of the Order’s different “Tongues”. In fact, between 1309 and 1522, the Inns of Provence, Auvergne, France, Germany, Italy, England and Spain all shared power in the city, with each having its own establishment, recognisable by the coat of arms on the building’s façade. Following an old road, the straight line of this street with its austere buildings crosses through the maze of winding little streets that surrounds it.
You will now have some free time to have a drink and stroll around the streets and shops.
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This visit involves walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and bring sun cream.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Patmos, island of the Revelation
The minuscule Greek island of Patmos, lost in the middle of the Dodecanese, has something mysterious about it. It was here, in the year 95, that John the Apostle, exiled on the island, had and recorded his vision of the apocalypse, leaving a lasting mark on this jagged piece of land. Centuries later, the fortified monastery devoted to the Apostle and the Cave of the Apocalypse still remains as enigmatic.
Sanctuaries, churches, convents… Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none are as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John, which tops the village of Chorá and its whitewashed walls. Founded in 1088, the monastery looks like a fortress, visible from miles around. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, has frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
The Cave of the Apocalypse is between Chorá and Skala. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist’s house – one can still see the place where he slept and the rock pulpit on which his disciple Prochorus wrote his dictation – and is now surrounded by a monastery as well as a theological school.
The last stop will be the three windmills nestling on Chorá hill, which will give you breathtaking views over the island and the sea as far as the eye can see.
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This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town; access to the monastery is on foot via paved streets. Over the entire excursion, you will have to go up and down around a hundred steps. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Religious heritage of Patmos
Explore the religious treasures of Patmos during an excursion in the footsteps of Saint John the Evangelist. From the eponymous fortified monastery to the Cave of the Apocalypse via the Zoodochos Pigi convent, immerse yourself in the island's ancient heritage combining history, art and faith.
With its sanctuaries, churches and convents, Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none is as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John overlooking the village of Chora and its whitewashed walls. Built in memory of Saint John the Evangelist by Saint Christodoulos in 1088, the monastery, which looks very much like a fortress, was sanctioned by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, who gave the monk the entire island. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and Byzantine liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, boasts frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
Not far from there, another monastery awaits you: the Zoodochos Pigi convent, built in 1607. Its church and its museum are known for preserving very old icons and frescoes through which you will dive into the history and iconographic symbols. These days, 15 nuns live in this convent, obeying strict rules. They practise the art of sewing and embroidering ecclesiastical garments, as one of them will tell you.
Between Chora and Skala, the Cave of the Apocalypse will reveal itself. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist's house and visitors can still see the place where he slept as well as the rock pulpit on which his disciple, Prochorus, took his dictation.
- This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town. From there, access to the monastery will be on foot via paved streets. Appropriate attire is required when visiting religious sites: knees and shoulders must be covered. Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave. This excursion is limited to 30 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Images of Patmos
The island of Patmos, sufficiently remote for it to retain its wild character, shrouded in a mysterious aura thanks to the presence of the fortified Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, is a paradise for photographers. Here, nature, architecture and tradition all mingle to make each scene of life into a new landscape.
Perched on the heights of the island, the small medieval village of Chora dominates Patmos with its impressive fortress of ochre-coloured walls. All around, a narrow maze of whitewashed houses, centenary churches, and minuscule shops, offer, through the small streets and little squares, a whole landscape of contrasts, geometry, and sometimes panoramic views which will appeal to those who love beautiful images.
In Diakofti, on Petra beach, the Kalikatsos rock draws out unusual shapes on the pebbles and the neighbouring azure blue. Not far away, a small shipyard allows visitors to discover the construction of traditional boats.
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This excursion involves walking approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) on cobbled surfaces and sometimes uneven ground. We recommend you wear walking shoes as well as comfortable clothing, sun cream, sunglasses and a hat. This tour is conducted by a local English-speaking guide. Don't forget your camera to capture the magnificent views offered by this excursion. The observation of the workers and vessels in dry dock is not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 15 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ephesus, an ancient wonder
Listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, the incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges at the heart of its abundant natural environment. Here, temples, villas and streets paved in sparkling marble immerse you into the daily life of those who once lived in this ancient city.
Also known as the Turkish Pompeii, Ephesus is a veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean. Built in two parts due to the geography of the land, the city boasts an administrative quarter on its heights, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
Facing the harbour, the lower town is home to the religious and cultural buildings: the famous Celsus Library, the Roman villas, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Between the two, discover the dwellings of the notables, grouped along the slopes of Mount Pion and Mount Coressos, along with Hercules Gate, the ancient Scholastica Baths, the stunning Marble Road, and the Temple of Hadrian.
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This excursion involves 1.5 hours of walking over uneven ground with some stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ephesus & Roman Villas
The incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges. During a guided visit, this ancient city, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, will reveal its temples and its sparkling streets of marble, as well as the terrace houses where lived the rich inhabitants of this place also known as the Turkish Pompeii.
A veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean, Ephesus is spread over two parts, the upper and the lower, to adapt to the relief of the neighbouring mountains.
On the heights, discover the administrative quarter, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon, all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
As for the lower city, it houses the religious and cultural buildings that stood facing the ancient port. There, you will discover the famous Celsus Library – which you will have the opportunity to visit –, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Next, head for the Terrace Houses, where recent excavations unearthed the houses of rich Ephesians. Built during the reign of Augustus, and located on the northern slope of Bülbüldag next to Curetes Street and opposite the Temple of Hadrian, these houses were constructed with a peristyle, a courtyard surrounded by Ionic columns, and they are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes.
Finally, after a short walk, you will arrive at the Great Theatre, where Saint Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to abandon the worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith.
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This excursion involves walking for approximately 2.5 hours on uneven ground with steps. The ground may be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santorini’s towns: Oia and Fira
Fall under the spell of the breathtaking panoramas to be found in the charming villages of Oia and Fira. Nestling on the Santorini caldera, they are renowned for their delightful whitewashed architecture.
First port of call: Oia. After passing through various villages perched above the Aegean Sea, admire the sumptuous scenery offered by the successive lava flows that shaped these panoramas over the centuries. Oia, a little gem posed on the cliffside, dominates the ancient caldera on the northwestern tip of the island. With its white houses squeezed against each other, the village has architecture that is characteristic of the Cyclades as well as sumptuous views.
In Fira, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which exhibits pieces discovered during excavations in Akrotiri - an ancient settlement of Santorini - including a gold ibex figurine as well as many frescoes. You will reach the port of Fira by cable car and embark on a tender to access your moored ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 2h30 of walking, with a few stairs. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Akrotiri site & Oia
There are two important treasures on the most famous, and perhaps the most spectacular, Greek island. First, the rare prehistoric site of Akrotiri and its city, which were buried under ashes during an eruption. Then, Oia, a gem of a village suspended above Santorini’s iconic caldera.
Nicknamed the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea”, the Akrotiri site is famous for its ruins dating back to the Neolithic age, i.e. 5,000 years before our era. Destroyed by a volcanic eruption and buried beneath the ashes, the city, probably one of the oldest known in the Mediterranean to this day, was rediscovered in 1967, during archaeological excavations that continue to attract researchers and scientists fascinated by the mysteries surrounding this site.
As you take the road to Oia, an immaculate and labyrinthine village perched on a cliff and plummeting into Greece’s most famous caldera, you will be able to admire the lava flows that have shaped the scenery. Then, once you reach this jewel of the Cyclades, amidst its typical architecture, you can take the measure of the forces that were at work here, opposite the crater forming the northwestern tip of the island.
Finally, you will arrive in Fira and make the most of its cable car to get to the port, with breathtaking views over the azure Mediterranean below.
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The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion. This excursion involves walking more than two and a half hours on cobbled streets and uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable non-slip walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. In addition to the extensive amount of walking on this tour, there is a 5 to 10-minute walk from the bus parking area in Oia and a lengthy walk from the bus stop to the cable car station in Fira.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The archaeological site of Delos
Delos is considered “the most sacred of all islands” in Ancient Greek culture; according to legend, it is the birthplace of Apollo-Sun and his twin sister Artemis-Moon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is both the oldest and largest open air archaeological site in Europe.
Emerging from a carpet of burned grass, the ruins - of many houses, temples and sacred sanctuaries - are spread across the foot of Mount Cynthus, the island’s only hill, which rises 113 metres (370 feet) high. At its summit stands the sanctuary of Zeus and Athena dating from the 3rd century BC while, on its slopes, you will glimpse a whole series of cultural buildings dedicated to various western divinities. Fixed by two thousand years of neglect, the city forms an impressive white stone maze in which to stroll around, like the pilgrims and merchants of the past, when Delos was significant across the Aegean Sea.
You will then reach the Apollonian sanctuary, known as the Temple of the Athenian, where you will be able to admire the different temples devoted to the gods, their altars, their votive offerings and other buildings. Next, discover the Terrace of the Lions and its famous white marble sculptures overlooking and protecting the city.
You will continue the visit with the Theatre Quarter, the most luxurious of the ancient city with the residences known as the “House of Dionysos”, “House of Cleopatra” and “House of the Dioscuri”. You can appreciate the mosaics decorating the floor of the houses from Hellenistic times, as well as the streets, workshops and shops, which made Delos a very lively city.
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This excursion is all on foot. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. The museum recently opened after undergoing renovation.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walking tour of Mykonos
From the pier, follow your guide and start your walking tour through the narrow streets of Mykonos town.
Your first stop will be in front of Paraportiani Church dating back to 15th century. This unique church, is in fact an asymmetrical conglomeration of 4 churches and mixes 4 different architectural styles: Byzantine, vernacular, traditional and western style. It is the most important element of the “kastro” or the castle area, the oldest part of the town.
Continue towards Little Venice to discover the old houses situated on the edge of the sea.
After, you will get back to your ship.
- This is a walking tour and involves some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. All the visits are outside visits. Paraportiani church is closed to the public due to safety reasons.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
L'Austral
Innovative design, sleek shape and profile, refined interior decoration, friendly, intimate atmosphere: French designers and decorators have managed to give this ship a unique style and veritable signature of its own. Combinations of fine materials, colours and tones harmoniously livened up with touches of bright colour, elegant lines, discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambiance of a veritable private yacht.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
MAGICAL CAPPADOCIA (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy a few days discovering Cappadocia’s unique scenery in the heart of Turkey. The exceptional landscapes, as beautiful as they are mystical, will fascinate you, as will the history of this striking region. From fairy chimney rock formations to cave dwellings and underground cities, embark on a journey where shimmering colours mingle with the aromas and magic of the Orient.
Day 1 – Kayseri / Uçhisar
Meet at Kayseri airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the Argos In Cappadocia Hotel 4*.
Check-in.
Rest of the day and dinner are at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Cappadocia
Optional activity - Hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia
Very early in the morning (weather permitting), you will set off for a hot-air balloon ride to the heart of unique landscapes. The sunrise will take on another dimension.
Dawn is the best time to enjoy this unique experience, as the cooler, calmer air ensures peaceful and stable flights, as well as soft landings. Another advantage is that the superb colours and contrasts at daybreak provide ideal conditions for taking beautiful photos.
The excellent flying conditions allow the hot air-balloons to gently drift over spectacular and surreal landscapes featuring fairy chimneys, dovecotes hewn into the unique rock formations, orchards and vineyards, and impressive valleys.
The flight time will be around 45 minutes (subject to weather conditions and approval from local authorities).
The duration of your flight is around 45 minutes.
After your flight, you will return to your hotel to freshen up and breakfast.
You will visit Pasabag, boasting the most striking fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, crowned with double and sometimes even triple rock caps. Even for this region, these formations are truly unique! The locals call them mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. As you wander around Pasabag, you will see many vineyards.
After lunch, your discovery tour will continue with the Zelve Open-Air Museum, south of Avanos. It encompasses three valleys home to a multitude of crumbling cave dwellings, painted and carved churches, wine-making rooms and wheat grinding mills. Right at the back of the third valley are the deepest and most intact cave dwellings, with many details indicating what life must have been like here a thousand years ago.
Next, in Avanos, the capital of Turkish pottery, a workshop will teach you more about this wonderful local handicraft inherited from the Hittite period.
To wrap up this day spent amid fairy chimneys and Byzantine vestiges, you will stop for a wine tasting at a local vineyard with some of the oldest perched vines in the world. There, you will be able to taste fruity wines made from local grapes.
Back to your hotel.
Dinner in a local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 – Cappadocia
Breakfast at the hotel.
Your day will then be spent discovering this unique and colourful natural environment through some of the most well-known sites in the region (a ten to twenty-minute transfer between each visit).
On the road between Uchisar and Goreme, you will start by visiting Pigeon Valley. A short walk will enable you to discover the dovecote tradition in Cappadocia. The locals carve them out of the tuff formations called “fairy chimneys”.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After a short transfer (approximately ten minutes), you will reach the Goreme Open-Air Museum, the most visited site of the monastic communities in Cappadocia, and one of the most famous sites in the centre of Turkey.
It is a complex comprising more than 30 churches and chapels carved out of rock and containing superb frescoes dating from the 9th century to the 11th. While the exterior seems relatively unremarkable, the interiors are designed in a typical Byzantine style, with a central dome and a floor plan in the shape of a cross or a rectangle. The largest and most well-preserved church in Goreme is Tokali Kilise. Its interior walls are covered in some of the most beautiful frescoes in the region, depicting scenes from the New Testament.
In the early evening, you will be attending a whirling dervish ceremony called “semah”. During this ritual dance, accompanied by Sufi music and symbolising a prayer and divine communion, the Mevlevi Order disciples spin around in a trance-like state.
Dinner at the hotel and overnight.
Day 4 - Cappadocia / Konya
Breakfast at the hotel.
You will head to Kaymakli to visit the UNESCO-listed, largest underground city in the region. Between the 6th and 10th centuries, the city was carved out of volcanic rock, up to a depth of more than 90 metres (295 feet). It is possible to go as deep as eight levels down through an intricate labyrinth of tunnels.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will reach Mustafapasa (Sinasos). Located 5 km (3 miles) south of Urgup, it is one of the most beautiful villages in Cappadocia. The town is famous for its Greek architecture. Greeks and Karamanlides (Turkish-speaking Christians) make up the majority of the population. The rest are Muslim Turks. Its sculpted wooden doors and facade decorations are very typical.
You will then stop at the Sultan Han Caravanserai. This roadside inn built in the 13th century afforded caravaners a place to rest and recover from the day's journey. Caravanserais, or hans in Turkish, supported the flow of commerce across a network of trade routes connecting Asia, North Africa and South-Eastern Europe. The Sultanhani han is one of the most well-preserved along the Silk Road linking Konya to Persia.
You will then be taken to your hotel in Konya.
Check-in in your room.
Dinner and overnight at your hotel.
Day 5 - Konya/Antalya
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
Konya, located at an altitude of 1,000 metres (3,281 feet), is a holy city, the cradle of Sufism and the former capital of the Seljuk Empire. It is there that, in the 13th century, the mystic poet Jalal al-Din Rumi – also called “Mevlana”, meaning ‘erudite’ – founded the Mevlevi Order, also known as the “whirling dervishes”. Today, the city boasts prestigious religious monuments that attract a great many pilgrims, but it is also a significantly urbanised modern metropolis.
You will be taken for a four-and-a-half-hour drive to Antalya (with stops), where you will lunch in a local restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the pier for your embarkation.
Your hotels:
The 4* Argos In Cappadocia Hotel is a former monastery in the village of Uchisar, now turned boutique hotel. Its interior reflects the cave-dwelling tradition yet offers every modern-day comfort. The hotel has been beautifully renovated by integrating the new structures into the heart of the vestiges with the utmost respect for the environment. Guests come here to press pause and take a break from the frantic pace of the modern world. Each room is unique and offers a private space. They are carved right out of the rock, celebrating the region’s cave-dwelling tradition. Lush gardens and sun-drenched terraces reveal picturesque panoramic views.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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3-night accommodation in Suite rooms at l’hôtel Argos In Cappadocia 4*, (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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1-night accommodation in an hotel in Konya, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea). Excepted for meals in Konya, no alcoholic beverages available around the Mevlana Museum Complex.
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide and a local French-speaking guide during visits.
Your programme does not include:
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The optional activity : 45-minutes hot air balloon flight.
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Personal expenses.
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Lunch and dinner on Day 1
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your arrival flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Turkey’s unit is the Turkish Lira. -
The distance between Cappadocia and Antalya is about 540 km (335 miles) and takes about 8 hours to cover by road. Since no domestic flights are possible on the itinerary dates, the package includes an overnight stay in Konya to make your trip more enjoyable.
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Konya is a holy city and its region is one of the most conservative in Turkey. The traditional local restaurants, particularly those located near religious sites, do not sell alcoholic beverages. It is possible to order alcoholic beverages in the bars and restaurants of certain international hotels.
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For the Mevlana Museum visit, clothing must cover the shoulders and legs. Women must cover their head, so a scarf is recommended.
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Kaymakli Underground City: this visit is not recommended for anyone suffering from claustrophobia, respiratory problems, or who has difficulties walking. The passageways are very narrow and low, requiring visitors to hunch over (but not crawl). There is adequate light. Good walking shoes are recommended.
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The hot-air balloon ride is subject to weather conditions. It may be postponed to the following day. In the event of a cancellation, the activity will be reimbursed.
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The hot-air balloon ride requires the ability to stand in the basket for the duration of the flight (approximately one hour) and to crouch down with bended knees during the entire landing. The maximum weight for taking part in this activity is 90-100 kg. This activity is not recommended for anyone with respiratory problems.
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Official in-room check-in time at 3:00 p.m.
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Official time of check-out from the room at 12:00 p.m.
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This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotels:
Argos Cappadocia
Uchisar-Nevsehir
TURKEY
Telephone number: (90) 384 219 31 30.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £1,540
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.DISCOVER ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES IN ANTALYA PROVINCE (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Antalya
Meet at Antalya Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Ramada Plaza Antalya 5*.
Check-in.
Rest of the day and dinner are at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Antalya
After breakfast and check-out, you will reach the Aspendos, located at about 1-hour at drive from Antalya. It was a major port city in the Roman period. Its Roman theatre is the best-preserved of any on the Mediterranean coast.
The theatre was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Marcus Aurelius and dedicated to "the gods of country and the imperial house" and holds over 20,000 souls. Today, an international Opera and Ballet Festival is organised in the theatre.
After a 30-minute drive, you will continue with the visit of Perge, capital of ancient Pamphylia. Its fantastic ruins date back to around 1000 BC. Walk around a stadium that once housed performances and gladiatorial bouts in front of a roaring crowd of 12,000 spectators, one of the best-preserved stadiums in Anatolia. Walk through the Roman Gate, which was the entrance to the city, into the Baths Complex, and around the Hellenistic Gateway and walls, which are the only pre-Roman structures as yet unearthed.
Then, you will reach Antalya Old City where the lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will enjoy a short walking guided in Antalya's old city.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Antalya to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and Bey Mountains, the hotel Ramada Plaza Antalya 5* is a few steps away from the historical old city Kaleiçi. Displaying a contemporary architecture, the resort offers a peaceful atmosphere inspired by the Mediterranean Sea. Each room features complete and modern amenities. It's the perfect place to enjoy pleasant break relaxing by the swimming pool and testing one of the restaurants.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further details.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Standard room at the hotel Ramada Plaza Antalya 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
-
The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on day 1.
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Personal expenses.
-
Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
Turkey's unit is the Turkish Lira.
-
This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotel:
Ramada Plaza Antalya
Gençlik Mah. Fevzi Çakmak mah. No:22
Antalya/Turkey
Telephone number: (90) 242 249 11 12
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £440
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.The Acropolis of Lindos
Overlooked by its acropolis and enjoying a charming setting, Lindos is one of Rhodes’ natural jewels and has great appeal thanks to its captivating natural environment and its ancient history.
The Acropolis of Lindos, which forms a rocky promontory that towers over the town, has been used since the 6th century BC as a citadel and place of worship successively by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, the Knights of St. John, and the Ottomans. It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Rhodes.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive amidst orange and lemon groves, prosperous vineyards, and fields of gnarled olive trees. You will discover Lindos through the rocky cliffs of the acropolis surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Spread out below you is the village of Lindos and its pretty whitewashed houses; the streets are paved with intricately patterned black and white pebbles collected from the sea.
As you begin your climb up the footpath to the summit, the first ruins you will see are the walls built by the crusaders in the early 14th century atop ancient fortifications. When you reach the top, you will pass through ramparts constructed by the Knights of St. John to defend against the Ottomans, then enter the acropolis complex. Here, making the most of stunning 360° views, you will discover the remains of the 4th-century Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and the imposing columns of the Hellenistic Stoa, as well as a Byzantine church and other ruins of the Knights' citadel.
Returning to the town, you will have some free time to browse the shops brimming with attractive souvenirs.
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This excursion involves up to two hours of walking. The approach to the acropolis is steep. You should be in good physical condition to participate and we recommend you protect yourself against the sun. We recommend you wear walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The city of the Knights Hospitaller
Discover the Medieval City of Rhodes during a guided walking tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable for its Gothic architecture, which coexists with mosques and public baths dating back to the Ottoman period.
Wander through the cobbled streets to the impressive Palace of the Grand Master, constructed in the 14th century, and admire the Greek and Turkish mosaics from the island of Kos. Following the palace visit, you will walk along the famous Street of the Knights of Rhodes, edged with old inns, each dedicated to one of the Order’s different “Tongues”. In fact, between 1309 and 1522, the Inns of Provence, Auvergne, France, Germany, Italy, England and Spain all shared power in the city, with each having its own establishment, recognisable by the coat of arms on the building’s façade. Following an old road, the straight line of this street with its austere buildings crosses through the maze of winding little streets that surrounds it.
You will now have some free time to have a drink and stroll around the streets and shops.
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This visit involves walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and bring sun cream.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Patmos, island of the Revelation
The minuscule Greek island of Patmos, lost in the middle of the Dodecanese, has something mysterious about it. It was here, in the year 95, that John the Apostle, exiled on the island, had and recorded his vision of the apocalypse, leaving a lasting mark on this jagged piece of land. Centuries later, the fortified monastery devoted to the Apostle and the Cave of the Apocalypse still remains as enigmatic.
Sanctuaries, churches, convents… Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none are as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John, which tops the village of Chorá and its whitewashed walls. Founded in 1088, the monastery looks like a fortress, visible from miles around. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, has frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
The Cave of the Apocalypse is between Chorá and Skala. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist’s house – one can still see the place where he slept and the rock pulpit on which his disciple Prochorus wrote his dictation – and is now surrounded by a monastery as well as a theological school.
The last stop will be the three windmills nestling on Chorá hill, which will give you breathtaking views over the island and the sea as far as the eye can see.
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This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town; access to the monastery is on foot via paved streets. Over the entire excursion, you will have to go up and down around a hundred steps. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Religious heritage of Patmos
Explore the religious treasures of Patmos during an excursion in the footsteps of Saint John the Evangelist. From the eponymous fortified monastery to the Cave of the Apocalypse via the Zoodochos Pigi convent, immerse yourself in the island's ancient heritage combining history, art and faith.
With its sanctuaries, churches and convents, Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none is as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John overlooking the village of Chora and its whitewashed walls. Built in memory of Saint John the Evangelist by Saint Christodoulos in 1088, the monastery, which looks very much like a fortress, was sanctioned by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, who gave the monk the entire island. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and Byzantine liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, boasts frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
Not far from there, another monastery awaits you: the Zoodochos Pigi convent, built in 1607. Its church and its museum are known for preserving very old icons and frescoes through which you will dive into the history and iconographic symbols. These days, 15 nuns live in this convent, obeying strict rules. They practise the art of sewing and embroidering ecclesiastical garments, as one of them will tell you.
Between Chora and Skala, the Cave of the Apocalypse will reveal itself. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist's house and visitors can still see the place where he slept as well as the rock pulpit on which his disciple, Prochorus, took his dictation.
- This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town. From there, access to the monastery will be on foot via paved streets. Appropriate attire is required when visiting religious sites: knees and shoulders must be covered. Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave. This excursion is limited to 30 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Images of Patmos
The island of Patmos, sufficiently remote for it to retain its wild character, shrouded in a mysterious aura thanks to the presence of the fortified Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, is a paradise for photographers. Here, nature, architecture and tradition all mingle to make each scene of life into a new landscape.
Perched on the heights of the island, the small medieval village of Chora dominates Patmos with its impressive fortress of ochre-coloured walls. All around, a narrow maze of whitewashed houses, centenary churches, and minuscule shops, offer, through the small streets and little squares, a whole landscape of contrasts, geometry, and sometimes panoramic views which will appeal to those who love beautiful images.
In Diakofti, on Petra beach, the Kalikatsos rock draws out unusual shapes on the pebbles and the neighbouring azure blue. Not far away, a small shipyard allows visitors to discover the construction of traditional boats.
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This excursion involves walking approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) on cobbled surfaces and sometimes uneven ground. We recommend you wear walking shoes as well as comfortable clothing, sun cream, sunglasses and a hat. This tour is conducted by a local English-speaking guide. Don't forget your camera to capture the magnificent views offered by this excursion. The observation of the workers and vessels in dry dock is not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 15 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ephesus, an ancient wonder
Listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, the incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges at the heart of its abundant natural environment. Here, temples, villas and streets paved in sparkling marble immerse you into the daily life of those who once lived in this ancient city.
Also known as the Turkish Pompeii, Ephesus is a veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean. Built in two parts due to the geography of the land, the city boasts an administrative quarter on its heights, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
Facing the harbour, the lower town is home to the religious and cultural buildings: the famous Celsus Library, the Roman villas, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Between the two, discover the dwellings of the notables, grouped along the slopes of Mount Pion and Mount Coressos, along with Hercules Gate, the ancient Scholastica Baths, the stunning Marble Road, and the Temple of Hadrian.
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This excursion involves 1.5 hours of walking over uneven ground with some stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ephesus & Roman Villas
The incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges. During a guided visit, this ancient city, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, will reveal its temples and its sparkling streets of marble, as well as the terrace houses where lived the rich inhabitants of this place also known as the Turkish Pompeii.
A veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean, Ephesus is spread over two parts, the upper and the lower, to adapt to the relief of the neighbouring mountains.
On the heights, discover the administrative quarter, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon, all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
As for the lower city, it houses the religious and cultural buildings that stood facing the ancient port. There, you will discover the famous Celsus Library – which you will have the opportunity to visit –, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Next, head for the Terrace Houses, where recent excavations unearthed the houses of rich Ephesians. Built during the reign of Augustus, and located on the northern slope of Bülbüldag next to Curetes Street and opposite the Temple of Hadrian, these houses were constructed with a peristyle, a courtyard surrounded by Ionic columns, and they are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes.
Finally, after a short walk, you will arrive at the Great Theatre, where Saint Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to abandon the worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith.
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This excursion involves walking for approximately 2.5 hours on uneven ground with steps. The ground may be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santorini’s towns: Oia and Fira
Fall under the spell of the breathtaking panoramas to be found in the charming villages of Oia and Fira. Nestling on the Santorini caldera, they are renowned for their delightful whitewashed architecture.
First port of call: Oia. After passing through various villages perched above the Aegean Sea, admire the sumptuous scenery offered by the successive lava flows that shaped these panoramas over the centuries. Oia, a little gem posed on the cliffside, dominates the ancient caldera on the northwestern tip of the island. With its white houses squeezed against each other, the village has architecture that is characteristic of the Cyclades as well as sumptuous views.
In Fira, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which exhibits pieces discovered during excavations in Akrotiri - an ancient settlement of Santorini - including a gold ibex figurine as well as many frescoes. You will reach the port of Fira by cable car and embark on a tender to access your moored ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 2h30 of walking, with a few stairs. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Akrotiri site & Oia
There are two important treasures on the most famous, and perhaps the most spectacular, Greek island. First, the rare prehistoric site of Akrotiri and its city, which were buried under ashes during an eruption. Then, Oia, a gem of a village suspended above Santorini’s iconic caldera.
Nicknamed the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea”, the Akrotiri site is famous for its ruins dating back to the Neolithic age, i.e. 5,000 years before our era. Destroyed by a volcanic eruption and buried beneath the ashes, the city, probably one of the oldest known in the Mediterranean to this day, was rediscovered in 1967, during archaeological excavations that continue to attract researchers and scientists fascinated by the mysteries surrounding this site.
As you take the road to Oia, an immaculate and labyrinthine village perched on a cliff and plummeting into Greece’s most famous caldera, you will be able to admire the lava flows that have shaped the scenery. Then, once you reach this jewel of the Cyclades, amidst its typical architecture, you can take the measure of the forces that were at work here, opposite the crater forming the northwestern tip of the island.
Finally, you will arrive in Fira and make the most of its cable car to get to the port, with breathtaking views over the azure Mediterranean below.
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The return ticket for the cable car to the port is included in the price of this excursion. This excursion involves walking more than two and a half hours on cobbled streets and uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable non-slip walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. In addition to the extensive amount of walking on this tour, there is a 5 to 10-minute walk from the bus parking area in Oia and a lengthy walk from the bus stop to the cable car station in Fira.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The archaeological site of Delos
Delos is considered “the most sacred of all islands” in Ancient Greek culture; according to legend, it is the birthplace of Apollo-Sun and his twin sister Artemis-Moon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is both the oldest and largest open air archaeological site in Europe.
Emerging from a carpet of burned grass, the ruins - of many houses, temples and sacred sanctuaries - are spread across the foot of Mount Cynthus, the island’s only hill, which rises 113 metres (370 feet) high. At its summit stands the sanctuary of Zeus and Athena dating from the 3rd century BC while, on its slopes, you will glimpse a whole series of cultural buildings dedicated to various western divinities. Fixed by two thousand years of neglect, the city forms an impressive white stone maze in which to stroll around, like the pilgrims and merchants of the past, when Delos was significant across the Aegean Sea.
You will then reach the Apollonian sanctuary, known as the Temple of the Athenian, where you will be able to admire the different temples devoted to the gods, their altars, their votive offerings and other buildings. Next, discover the Terrace of the Lions and its famous white marble sculptures overlooking and protecting the city.
You will continue the visit with the Theatre Quarter, the most luxurious of the ancient city with the residences known as the “House of Dionysos”, “House of Cleopatra” and “House of the Dioscuri”. You can appreciate the mosaics decorating the floor of the houses from Hellenistic times, as well as the streets, workshops and shops, which made Delos a very lively city.
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This excursion is all on foot. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. The museum recently opened after undergoing renovation.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walking tour of Mykonos
From the pier, follow your guide and start your walking tour through the narrow streets of Mykonos town.
Your first stop will be in front of Paraportiani Church dating back to 15th century. This unique church, is in fact an asymmetrical conglomeration of 4 churches and mixes 4 different architectural styles: Byzantine, vernacular, traditional and western style. It is the most important element of the “kastro” or the castle area, the oldest part of the town.
Continue towards Little Venice to discover the old houses situated on the edge of the sea.
After, you will get back to your ship.
- This is a walking tour and involves some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. All the visits are outside visits. Paraportiani church is closed to the public due to safety reasons.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
ATHENS, THE ACROPOLIS MUSEUM AND PLAKA
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Athens
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will be taken by coach for an exploration of one of the oldest cities in Europe, Athens.
You will enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of the city. You will make your first stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, a 19th-century reconstruction on Roman foundations, in which the first modern Olympic Games took place. This stadium is also known as the Kallimármaro which means “the beautiful marbled”, because it is the only major stadium in the world built entirely of white marble. It was also restored to host some competitions during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
You will arrive at the Acropolis Museum, which was opened in June 2009. The architecture of the whole venue has been designed to emulate the cult of the Temple of Athena. At the foot of the sacred hill, the building’s rear facade of concrete and glass seems to billow out with the weight of its history, and it is from here that you will have your first view of the Parthenon. The museum provides a magnificent setting for the treasures discovered on the hill. The first gallery houses the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens and the glass floor provides a view of the archaeological excavations, giving you the impression of being in the very heart of these ancient ruins.
At the end of the morning, you will be taken to the Plaka Old District located at the bottom of the Acropolis, in the historic heart of Athens. You will have some free time (about 45 minutes or more depending on your flight return) to explore on foot Plaka’s pedestrian shopping streets where you will find jewellery stores, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Lunch.
- Tips for the guide and the driver.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : £120
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.