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An abandoned theatre in Taormina, Sicily

From Malta to the Adriatic Coast

Valletta - Venice - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard Le Bougainville
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Embark on a 9-day cruise across the Ionian and Adriatic Seas aboard Le Bougainville. Enjoy included excursions at each port, from exploring the medieval vestiges of Dubrovnik to climbing Mount Etna from Taormina. Departing from Valletta, Malta, your journey will lead you to Sicily, Puglia, Montenegro, Croatia, and Italy's stunning coastlines. Experience the charm of Tivat in Montenegro, the allure of Hvar in Croatia, and the medieval splendor of Trogir. Discover hidden gems like Primosten's fishing village and Rab's pristine forests before concluding your unforgettable voyage in the majestic city of Venice.
Explore Malta's capitalMediterranean blue Dubrovnik from aboveBeautiful view from Trogir fortress, CroatiaGondola on Canal Grande at Sunset, VeniceAn abandoned theatre in Taormina, Sicily
Highlights
  • Explore Valletta's UNESCO World Heritage sites, from grand streets to Barrakka Gardens
  • Discover Taormina's historical landmarks and Greco-Roman theatre ruins with stunning views
  • Experience Otranto's charming seaside town with a 12th-century ornamental Cathedral
  • Wander around Stari Grad's UNESCO World Heritage Site, vineyards, and olive groves
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Valletta | Embark

Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and sits on a peninsula in the northeast of the island. Visitors can explore the many grand streets and narrow alleyways, from the Tritons fountain to the Saint-Elme fort. The tall houses feature painted loggias and carved corbels. Notable sites include the Grandmaster's palace, adorned with coats of arms and frescoes, Saint John's Cathedral, and the ramparts that have protected the city since the 16th century. The Barrakka Gardens provide a green and floral experience.

Day 2: Taormina, Sicily

Taormina is a picturesque town on the eastern coast of Sicily, located in the province of Messina. It is known for its historical landmarks, secluded beaches, and trendy shopping scene, making it a great vacation spot. You can explore the medieval center of Taormina, perched 300 meters above sea level, providing a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. One of the town's most fascinating sites is the well-preserved Greco-Roman theatre ruins, which attract many tourists. The stunning location of the theatre, overlooking the turquoise bay, adds to the area's natural beauty.

Day 3: Otranto

Located in the Apulia region, Otrante is the easternmost transalpine town. Behind its medieval ramparts, taste the sweet life of Salento, the “heel on Italy’s boot.” Inhabited since Antiquity, Otrante has today become a charming 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. You can relax at a café terrace while strolling along the ramparts.

Day 4: Tivat

Much of Tivat's elegance comes from the beauty of its marina, Porto Montenegro, which attracts many influential personalities. The port's promenade, emphasized by its line of palm trees facing the mountains of the Bay of Kotor, is a unique setting. Built in the 14th century, the town was successively governed by the Venetians and the Austro-Hungarians before the creation of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia following the First World War. Today, Montenegro's most prosperous city welcomes visitors, particularly those visiting its old town or walking along its magnificent beaches.

Day 5: Stari Grad, Hvar Island

Sail towards the famous island of Hvar for a day in Stari Grad, an intimate port of call that is off the beaten track. Let your feelings guide you and discover this pretty city located at the end of a fertile plain, planted with vines and olive groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The organization of its parcels, marked out by dry stone walls punctuating the landscape, goes back to ancient times. Wander around the small streets leisurely, discovering the town’s pretty boutiques and gourmet restaurants. 

Day 6: Dubrovnik

Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, and this ancient city is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You may 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, 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.

Day 7: Trogir | Primosten

Built on an island linked to the Dalmatian coast,  the picturesque city of Trogir dates from Antiquity. Enjoy its colorful streets and be pleasantly surprised by its Greco-Roman plan, affording it UNESCO World Heritage status. Today, the former Cardo Maximus is the main street of the historical center. You can meet at your leisure in the fashion, 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.

Located south of Sibenik, Primosten is a picturesque village on the Dalmatian Coast. Its charm is distilled via its narrow streets, pretty stone houses, and an architectural heritage influenced by the Venetian Republic. Built on a rocky peninsula, the historical city was connected to land by a mobile bridge from which it earned its name in the 16th century: in Croatian, primos titi 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.

 

Day 8: Rab

The authenticity of this little island in Kvarner Bay will charm you beyond belief. Dating from Adriatic Antiquity, its name means “wooded lands” about the pinewoods, cypresses, and cork oaks surrounding the main town. This town is called Rab, and it is like an island. Here, you can see the architecture of Venetian influence, inherited from the Middle Ages, illustrated by the bell tower. Below, the ramparts provide views embracing the entire coastline, punctuated by deserted creeks.

Day 9: Venice | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
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. Inevitably, they 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, ramble through its squares, and 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 Bougainville

Le Bougainville Ship
Le Bougainville
Le Bouganville Restaurant

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Holiday Offers 26562
Book by January 3, 2025, and save 10% off on select 2024, 2025 and 2026 sailings. Applicable on new bookings only, booked and deposited between November 25, 2024, and January 3, 2025. Subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to Aug 13, 2025 departure

Per person starting at
$5,520 2-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Cabin
Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² Private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Deluxe Suite
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 6m² private balcony
Cabin
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m² Capacity: up to 4 passengers per cabin 8m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Owner's Suite
Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds

Notes

Please note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and are subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners
  • 8 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. 
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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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
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