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Brilliant blue of Venice's lagoon

Iconic Treasures of the Adriatic

Athens to Venice - Example 13 Day Cruise aboard Le Lyrial
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Set sail to discover the Mediterranean and the Adriatic with PONANT. During this new 13-day cruise, Le Lyrial will take you along the Dalmatian shores to the cultural and natural wonders of Greece, Montenegro and Croatia. From Athens, you will sail to the small island of Hydra, famous for its incomparable light. Then will follow a call in Corfu, the most famous of the Ionian Islands. You will reach Montenegro after sailing in the Bay of Kotor, which is strangely reminiscent of Norwegian fjords. ts old town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its medieval architecture. You will continue to discover Croatia and as a grand finale, your voyage will draw to an end in Venice the Serenissima and its lagoon of which Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal and the palaces along the canals are the treasures.
Acropolis in AthensHydra, GreeceVisit charming RovinjKotorYour tour may include a visit to this abandoned church in Kotor, MontenegroDubrovnik, CroatiaCity of DubrovnikSt. Mary monastery Mljet National ParkExplore the historic island of KorculaKorcula, CroatiaStone streets of Stari Grad on Hvar islandView of Hvar harborThe town of Trogir maintains its historic facades throughoutWander through RovinjGondola on Canal Grande at Sunset, VeniceGolden hour in Venice's famed Piazza San MarcoBrilliant blue of Venice's lagoon
Highlights
  • Discover the wonders of the Adriatic from Athens to Venice
  • Visit numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Explore the most famous of the Ionian Islands
  • Visit the Florence of the South of Italy - Lecce
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Athens | Embark

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 colorful 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.

Day 2: Hydra

This unusual gem belonging to the Saronic islands is located to the east of the Peloponnese. There are no cars here. Named after the island, the harbor town is layered up the slopes of a mountainous bay. You may be surprised to see beautiful stone mansions. These are traditional here, as are the multi-colored caïques along the quays. Further along the shore, you will discover the Historical Archives Museum. Collections from Athens National History Museum are exhibited in the elegant villa Koundouriotis.

Day 3: Katakolon

This picturesque village stretches along the Ionian Sea in the west of the Peloponnese. Its main harbor offers a vast panorama of the coastline’s wooded hillsides. Dazzling white, the church of Saint-Nicolas houses a selection of sumptuous icons. You can also pay a visit to the archaeological site of Olympus on the slopes of Mount Kronos.

​The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Olympia & its Museum

Day 4: Corfu

Named after the island, Corfu is the most famous city in the Ionian islands. Protected by citadel fortifications, its old city, designated UNESCO World Heritage, displays unusual Greco-Byzantine and Venetian architecture. Above the water stands Saint George’s church, looking uncannily like a classical temple. The picturesque Pontikonisi, a stone’s throw from the southern point of the town, is the legendary island where Odysseus landed.

The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Achillion Palace & Corfu Town, Corfu's local delicacies

Day 5: Otranto

Located in the Apulia region, Otrante is the easternmost transalpine town. Behind its medieval ramparts, you will taste the sweet life of Salento, the “heel on Italy’s boot”. Inhabited since Antiquity, Otrante has today become a very pleasant seaside town. Yet its history is still visible as you meander through the little streets of its old center. With its magnificent 12th-century ornamental mosaic tiling, the Cathedral is one of its most beautiful treasures. During a stroll along the ramparts, you can sit and relax at a café terrace.

Day 6: Kotor

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 colorful costumes are often organized.

    Day 7: Dubrovnik

    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.

    The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Meet the winemakers, Treasures & Panorama of Dubrovnik, City walls & Lokrum Island kayaking

    Day 8: Mljet | Korcula

    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 saltwater lakes. On the largest lake, Veliko Jezero, a small island is a home to an old Benedictine monastery.

    This harbor 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.

    The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: The history of Korcula

    Day 9: Hvar

    Off the coast of Split, Hvar will surprise you with its traditions that haven’t changed since Antiquity. The country’s oldest town, Stari Grad, is here on this Dalmatian Island. The town nestles by a cove on the northwest 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. 

    The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Hvar & its religious heritage, Palmizana Island by boat, Hvar 4WD Adventure, Sea Kayaking

    Day 10: Trogir

    Built onan island linked to the Dalmatian coast,  the picturesque city of Trogir dates from Antiquity. You will certainly be won over by its colorful streets and pleasantly surprised by their Greco-Roman plan, affording it UNESCO World Heritage status. Today, the former cardo Maximus is the historical center’s main street. You can mosey at your leisure in the fashion shops, art galleries and cake shops. Don’t miss the three naves in the stunning Saint Lawrence Cathedral. From the top of its keep, the Kamerlengo fortress provides a spectacular view of the old town and coastline.

    The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Split & the Diocletian Palace, Trogir, The medieval town, Sea Kayaking

    Day 11: Primosten

    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.

    The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Dalmatian coast & Inland, Off-road safari
     

    Day 12: Rovinj

    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, a symbol of Venice. The bell tower erected beside Saint Euphemia Cathedral was designed like the bell of St. Marc 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-colored streets leading to bustling squares and terraces shaded by canvas awnings.

    Day 13: Venice | Disembark

    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.

    Ship/Hotel

    Le Lyrial

    Le Lyrial Lobby
    Le Lyrial Observatory Lounge
    Le Lyrial Restaurant

    Dates & Prices

    My Preferred Start Date

    This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Mediterranean Small Ship Cruises.
    Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
    Cabins on the Le Lyrial
    Superior Stateroom
    Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, desk, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
    Cabins on the Le Lyrial
    Deluxe Stateroom
    28 cabins, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Located on Deck 3. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, desk, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
    Le Lyrial Prestige Stateroom
    Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
    35 cabins, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
    Le Lyrial Prestige Stateroom
    Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
    37 cabins, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
    Le Lyrial Prestige Stateroom
    Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
    1 cabin, 200 sq. ft. + 43 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
    Cabins on the Le Lyrial
    Deluxe Suite
    3 cabins on Deck 6, 290 sq. ft. + 54 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually-controlled A/C, en suite shower, sofa, armchair and pedestal table, Wi-Fi access, TV, and stereo.
    Le Lyrial - Prestige Suite
    Prestige Suite - Deck 5
    11 cabins, 398 sq. ft + 86 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with shower, desk, sofa, armchair & table, 2 TVs, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
    Le Lyrial - Privilege SuiteLe Lyrial - Privilege Suite
    Privilege Suite
    8 cabins, 398 sq. ft + 86 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with shower, desk, sofa, armchair & table, 2 TVs, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
    Le Lyrial - Grand Deluxe SuiteLe Lyrial - Grand Deluxe Suite
    Grand Deluxe Suite
    1 cabin, 484 sq. ft. + 96 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with jacuzzi and shower, desk, TV, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
    Le Lyrial - Grand Privilege SuiteLe Lyrial - Grand Privilege SuiteGrand Privilege Suite on the Le Lyrial
    Grand Privilege Suite
    7 cabins, 398 sq. ft. + 86 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with bathtub and shower, desk, minibar, TV, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
    Le Lyrial - Owner SuiteOwner's Suite on the Le LyrialLe Lyrial - Owner Suite
    Owner Suite
    On Deck 6, 592 sq. ft. + 129 sq. ft. private balcony. Individually controlled A/C, ensuite bathroom with jacuzzi and shower, desk, sofa, table with 4 chairs, armchair and table, 2 televisions, stereo, Satellite telephone, Wi-Fi access.
    Included
    • 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners
    • 12 Nights Accommodations
    • Accommodations as listed
    • Ground transportation as listed
    • Activities as listed
    • Meals as listed
    • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
    • Port Fees
    • Unlimited Wifi
    • Onboard Entertainment 
    • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
    • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
    • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
    • 24h Room Service (special selection)
    • English-Speaking Lecturer 
    • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
    • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
    • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
    • Port and Safety Taxes 
    Excluded
    • Travel Insurance
    • Personal Expenses
    • Flight costs (please request a quote)
    • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
    • Visa Fees
    • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
    • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
    • Luggage Handling 
    • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
    • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
    • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
    • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses

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