From the city of gods, UNESCO Croatia to the canals of Venice Cruise
Duration: 8 nights
Prices include: Welcome dinner Flights Transfers Breakfast
Holiday At A Glance
- 8 Nights/9 Days cruise
- All-inclusive
- Flights and transfers included
- Excursions per port of call
- Fantastic cruise for explores of many countries
From the city of gods, UNESCO Croatia to the canals of Venice Cruise
Embark on a journey to uncover the cultural and artistic treasures of the Aegean, Adriatic, and Ionian Seas with our cruise partner. Throughout this 9-day cruise, L’Austral will guide you through the captivating landscapes of Greece, Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia.
Each port of call offers an included excursion per person, allowing you to choose from a selection curated by our cruise partner. During your voyage, explore Lecce, often referred to as the Florence of Southern Italy, from Otranto; marvel at Split and the ancient Diocletian's Palace; or enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque town of Piran. The variety of experiences promises unforgettable moments and diverse adventures.
As you set sail, the sun’s final rays will illuminate the legendary and historic city of Athens. The ancient sites and charming streets of this millennia-old city will gradually fade from view as you embark on a journey to the hidden gems of the Aegean, Adriatic, and Ionian Seas.
After a breathtaking passage through the Corinth Canal, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the island of Itea, located near the remarkable archaeological site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the Temple of Apollo, built in the 4th century BC, stands as a testament to ancient history.
In Epirus, you’ll explore the coastal town of Parga, nestled by the Ionian Sea. Its 14th-century Norman fortress overlooks a quaint fishing port, offering a glimpse into its storied past.
Your journey continues to the stunning Puglia region of Italy, with a stop in Otranto. Be sure to visit Lecce, renowned for its lavish Baroque architecture, earning it the title "Florence of the South." Further north, Vieste will greet you from its limestone cliff, its rich history and whitewashed houses exuding undeniable charm.
Split invites you to discover its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where treasures like Diocletian's Palace and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius await.
In Zadar, you'll explore the remnants of a fortified Roman town, including the grand Land Gate on the peninsula.
On the Slovenian coast, the medieval town of Piran extends into the clear waters of the Adriatic, its unique charm shaped by five centuries of Venetian rule.
As a grand finale, Venice, the Serenissima, awaits with its iconic St. Mark’s Square and the opulent Doge’s Palace, marking the perfect end to this enchanting journey.
Your Ship
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, and discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambience of a veritable private yacht.
- Up to 264 guests
- 132 Staterooms and Suites
- 145 Crew members
- Spa
- 2 x restaurants
*Food and Drink
Breakfast, lunches and dinners served on board are included in the price of the cruise, from the dinner on the first day to the breakfast on the final day. Beginning with boarding and during the entire duration of the cruise, beverages are served on request and at any time of the day. The Open Bar offers a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck Champagne, spirits, coffee, tea). Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.
Highlights:
- A cruise between the Aegean, the Ionian and the Adriatic Seas, discovering four Mediterranean countries: Greece, Croatia, Italy and Slovenia.
- 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.
- Vieste, a brand-new port of call in Puglia, to discover a town of singular beauty.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Acropolis of Athens, the sanctuary of Delphi (from Itea), the Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Venice and its lagoon (your disembarkation port).
- Crossing the Corinth Canal.
- From Otranto, the possibility of visiting Lecce, “the Florence of southern Italy”.
Itinerary at a glance:
24 May 2025 - Athens
25 May 2025 - Crossing the Corinth Canal
25 May 2025 - Itea
26 May 2025 - Parga
27 May 2025 - Otranto
28 May 2025 - Vieste
29 May 2025 - Split
30 May 2025 - Zadar
31 May 2025 - Piran
1 June 2025 - Venice
Dates:
24th May - 1st June 2025
We also offer other Luxury cruises in and around the Adriatic- enquire online to find out more.
24 May 2025 - Athens
Embarkation 24/05/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 24/05/2025 at 18:00
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.
crossing the Corinth Canal
5 May 2025 - Crossing the Corinth Canal
Arrival 25/05/2025 early morning
Departure 25/05/2025 early morning
The Corinth Canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, turning the Peloponnese into an island as it separates the region from the Greek mainland. Inaugurated in 1893, the canal is a little over six kilometres long and enables merchant vessels and passengers to avoid a long 400-km detour around the peninsula. The two sides of the canal reach a height of approximately fifty metres. From the exterior decks, don’t miss this unique opportunity to watch the ship as it navigates along the narrow strip of water encased between tall, ochre cliffs. What an experience!
Itea
25 May 2025 - Itea
Arrival 25/05/2025 midday
Departure 25/05/2025 early evening
Tucked away in the Gulf of Corinth, this little port is situated in continental Greece, northwest of Athens. Take an easy stroll along the old cobblestone quays, while gazing at the summits encircling the Bay of Itea. We wouldn’t be surprised if you are tempted by a visit to the Delphi Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located on a plateau on the slope of Mount Parnassus, just ten kilometres from Itea. A listed UNESCO World Heritage site, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience whose ancient ruins are surrounded by steep mountains.
2 available excursions to this stopover
Parga
26 May 2025 - Parga
Arrival 26/05/2025 early morning
Departure 26/05/2025 evening
An ancient port in the Epirus region, picturesque Parga is located on the western coast of the Greek mainland. Ancient classical ruins and the Venetian citadel bear witness to the town's colourful history and the diverse influences that shaped it. Take the time to discover this ancient fishing village built like an amphitheatre, by strolling along the picturesque maze of pedestrian streets lined with small, typical Greek houses decorated with flowers and many lively taverns.
2 available excursions to this stopover
Otranto
27 May 2025 - Otranto
Arrival 27/05/2025 early morning
Departure 27/05/2025 late afternoon
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 centre. 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.
2 available excursions to this stopover
Vieste
28 May 2025 - Vieste
Arrival 28/05/2025 early morning
Departure 28/05/2025 late afternoon
You will be captivated by the charm of Vieste, the “pearl of the Gargano region”, in the heart of Puglia in Italy. This old fishing village clinging to chalk cliffs has unique views over the Adriatic Sea. Its archaeological treasures and its historic centre will delight history enthusiasts, while nature lovers will be able to admire the crystal clear waters of the surrounding coves and beaches, as well as its famous limestone monolith called the Pizzomunno. The village’s paved alleys and small squares come alive all day long, making Vieste the ultimate in romantic destinations.
Split
29 May 2025 - Split
Arrival 29/05/2025 early morning
Departure 29/05/2025 late afternoon
On the Dalmatian coast, the town of Split offers cultural visits in a seaside atmosphere. Close to the seafront shaded by palm trees, the historical centre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a unique building: the Diocletian’s Palace. Here you will explore its galleries, courtyards with carved columns, as well as a former mausoleum converted into a church, namely Saint Domnius Cathedral. If you get peckish, stop off at a terrace in the Pjaca, the main square in the old town, where you can try a palacinka, a kind of pancake topped with melted cheese.
1 available excursion to this stopover
Zadar
30 May 2025 - Zadar
Arrival 30/05/2025 early morning
Departure 30/05/2025 late afternoon
The old fortified city of Zadar stands on a peninsula in Northern Dalmatia. It has survived since Antiquity, as the ruins of a Roman forum illustrate. Beside these ruins, the architecture of the church of Saint Donat is Byzantine while the bell-tower of the Cathedral of Saint Anastasia is of Italian design. Your walks in the old town will be punctuated by diverse encounters with history. As you reach the shoreline, you’ll be brought back to the modern day because this front is animated by two contemporary architectural creations. Maybe you will hear the sound of the “Sea Organ” music played by the surf and the “ Sun Salutations ” solar light installation reflecting its luminous rays.
Piran
31 May 2025 - Piran
Arrival 31/05/2025 early morning
Departure 31/05/2025 early afternoon
On the Slovenian coast, the picturesque town of Piran stands on a tongue of land bathed by the Adriatic. Its old town, girded by fortifications, provides a medieval atmosphere embossed with Venetian nuances. From Tartini Square, you can explore a whole interweave of mysterious streets located on the hillside, leading you to Saint George’s church, built on a hillock overlooking the shoreline. After admiring the view, don’t miss a good look at the nave, and its rich decorations of frescoes and panelling. You will also see that the tower built behind the church reproduces the famous bell-tower of Saint Mark’s Square. During your peregrinations, make sure you try a borek, a sort of pasty which can be sweet or savoury, filled with meat or fruit.
Venice
1 June 2025 - Venice
Arrival 01/06/2025 at night
Disembarkation 01/06/2025 at 07:00
Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s Square, the basilica, Doges Palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzin
Included:
- Flights
- accommodation in a stateroom,
- the full meal plan,
- the Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar,
- free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day*,
- activities offered during expedition cruises (see section "Expedition cruises")
- access to all the common areas.
Not Included:
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
Notes:
- This voyage is offered on a space-available basis
- The program is subject to change without notice
Breakfast
Get off to a good start every day on board.
- Hot drinks and pastries are served from 6:30 to 10:30 for early risers and late risers.
- Enjoy your breakfast in the cabin with room service, in the restaurant or outside if weather permits
- Enjoy pastries cooked on board, bread made daily by our French baker, home-made cakes and muffins, pancakes, waffles, eggs, cheeses and cold cuts, detox juices, and more.
Morning Midday
Departure alert for excursions or trips
Because we want your activities to go smoothly, your cruise director alerts you before departure for any excursions you have booked if you are on a Yachting cruise, or for Zodiac® trips, if you have opted for an Expedition cruise.
Lunch
On board, enjoy our varied buffet. Among the wide choice of salads, vegetables, meat and fish, desserts and pastries, choose a starter, a main dish and a dessert that have been specially cooked for you based on the theme of the day (Corsica, Mediterranean, Asian, barbecue, Italian, etc.)
A restaurant on land is booked for day trips.
On board
Want to stay on board to enjoy a moment of relaxation?
- Attend a talk given by one of our prestigious guests of honour.
- Book a massage or treatment at the spa.
- Relax by the pool or in the library, keep fit in the gym or enjoy some quiet time by selecting the cruise photos taken by the teams from the PONANT Studio on the l’Application or on the computers.
Afternoon Tea time
Zodiac® excursions or trips
Your afternoon continues with the terrestrial trips that you have booked to complement your Yachting cruise.
On Expedition cruises, enjoy guided trips by our naturalist guides and discover new lands.
An afternoon snack
- Around 4 p.m., after having enjoyed a few sweet treats with cold or hot drinks accompanied by music in the Grand salon, it's time to get ready for dinner. Our Hairdresser Advisors will offer you personalised services in the Hairdressing Salon.
- Enjoy the peace and quiet of your cabin to watch one of the 60 movies available in multiple languages on your TV, to book a tour through the app or to immerse yourself in a book on your private balcony.
- Browse in the shop or stroll through the ship's various social spaces, in the observatory lounge (on the PONANT EXPLORERS and Le Ponant), the panoramic lounge (on the Sisterships) or the Blue Eye on the PONANT EXPLORERS, with a glass of champagne or a delicious cocktail in your hand.
A gourmet dinner
Your late afternoon continues in front of a beautiful sunset to the sound of beautiful melodies played on the piano, with an aperitif. Every day, discover a new cocktail recipe. Dinner follows, cooked by our chefs in keeping with the tradition of grand French fine dining.
Evening24/7
An evening of entertainment
Your evening follows on with entertainment in the Grand Salon or the Theatre. Enjoy an evening dancing, a classical concert, a show performed by our professional dancers or a film
Ship:
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 ambience of a veritable private yacht.
Common Areas:
The main lounge - Deck 3
- 2,740 square feet
- Interior capacity: 110
- Exterior capacity: 30
- Tea rooms, bar, programme of live musical entertainment, dance floor
- Access to the exterior terrace
The theatre - Deck 4
- 2,690 square feet
- Capacity: 250
- Conference room, concert hall/multi-purpose auditorium
- Audiovisual equipment
The wellness area - Deck 5
- Spa in partnership with SOTHYS™: massage and treatment cubicles, beauty salon cubicle, balneotherapy cubicle
- KÉRASTASE / L’Oréal Paris hair salon
- Free access hammam (open during the day)
- Fitness studio (open during the day)
Recreation area - Deck 5
- Studio: Special area for viewing and ordering photos/videos
- Kids Club (games area + Wii and PS4)
The panoramic lounge - Deck 6
- 1,185 square feet
- Library, internet space, bar, live entertainment on certain evenings
- Direct access to the panoramic terrace
Exterior bar - Deck 6
- Lounge area with seating for 50
- Overlooking the pool deck
Services Provided:
- 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 stateroom
Cabins/Staterooms:
There are 15 different types of Stateroom or Suite on offer, the stateroom included in the price is Superior Stateroom Deck 3 (226 Square feet)
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- One king-size bed or two single beds (180 x 200 cm)
- A bathroom with shower
- A window (except for stateroom 300: a round porthole only)
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From Price | Price from £6500 - £7000 pp |
Enquire Now
Have a question, or want to discuss how we can personalise this holiday for you, please call one of our travel experts or enquire online.
0333 8805655