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- New
Escapade around the Peloponnese
Palermo, Sicily - Athens
Dates:
14/6/2021
to
18/6/2021
5
days
days
4
nights on board
nights on board
Starting from*
€2,180
30% Ponant Bonus
Guest Speaker 
Back-to-back offer For the very first time, PONANT is offering a short new 5-day cruise in the Mediterranean. Perfect for a short break that is rich in discoveries. From Sicily to the Greek coast, experience exceptional moments discovering fascinating sites.
Le Bougainville will leave Palermo, capital of Sicily. Its magnificent cathedral, churches and palaces, representative of Arab-Norman influences, are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Your ship will then cross the Ionian Sea towards the Delphi sanctuary of Greek gods which you will reach via Itea. Delphi is located on a grandiose site that is one of Greece’s most beautiful natural landscapes. You will walk in the footsteps of the pilgrims of old, who came here to consult the famous oracle.
You will sail along the astonishing Corinth Canal, a famous sea channel dug out by men in the 19th century and arrive in Nafplion, the departure point for visiting the famous Epidaurus Theatre and the Mycenae site, listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
Your cruise will end in Athens, the mythical city dominated by the Acropolis and its monuments that form the most extraordinary architectural and artistic collection bequeathed by Ancient Greece to the rest of the world.
Ref : G140621
Your itinerary
A gateway of 5 days from Palermo to Athens, to discover fascinating sites. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Arab-Norman Palermo (before your cruise), Delphi from Itea, the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus...
See detailed itinerary
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
You may also like...
You may also like...
*Price is per person, double occupancy, is based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of cabin to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Your account
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Services provided
- Individually-controlled airconditioning
- Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating staterooms available (Children welcome)
- Minibar
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Video on demand
- Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
- Desk with stationery
- Safe
- Hermès® bath products
- Dressing table, bath robes, Hairdryer
- Direct line telephone
- 110V American (two flat pins) /220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 24hr room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi
Choose your stateroom category
-
Deluxe Stateroom
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Prestige Deck 4
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Prestige Deck 5
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Prestige Deck 6
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
30% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
30% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
30% Ponant Bonus
27 m2
3
-
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
30% Ponant Bonus
38 m2
4
-
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
30% Ponant Bonus
38 m2
4
-
Privilege Suite Deck 5
30% Ponant Bonus
38 m2
3
-
Privilege Suite Deck 6
30% Ponant Bonus
38 m2
3
-
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
30% Ponant Bonus
45 m2
4
-
Owner's Suite
45 m2
4
Packing Checklist
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:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, 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.
Advice
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 gateway of 5 days from Palermo to Athens, to discover fascinating sites.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Arab-Norman Palermo (before your cruise), Delphi from Itea, the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Napflion, the Acropolis from the disembarkation port in Athens.
- An unforgettable crossing of the Corinth Canal.
- Possibility to visit Athens after your cruise.
Ports of Call & Excursions
14 June 2021 Palermo, Sicily
Embarkation 14/6/2021 from 16h00 to 17h00
Departure 14/6/2021 at 18h00
Palermo is the guardian of the Sicilian soul. Many have been attracted to this city, the largest capital of the Italian islands. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans... Palermo is a rich culmination of so many cultural influences as seen in the Moorish designs on the cathedral, and the Byzantine mosaics of the Palatine chapel, which is itself housed within the precincts of the Norman palace. You will fall under the spell of the palaces, baroque splendours that grace the town with their obsolete beauty. It is thrilling to stumble upon one of those fabulous markets, high in colour, and headily picturesque.
15 June 2021 At sea
Arrival 15/6/2021
Departure 15/6/2021
During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
16 June 2021 Itea
Arrival 16/6/2021 early morning
Departure 16/6/2021 mid afternoon
Tucked away in the Gulf of Corinth, this little port is situated in continental Greece, north-west 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 possible excursions
to this stopover
16 June 2021 Crossing the Corinth Canal
Arrival 16/6/2021
Departure 16/6/2021
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 passenger 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!
17 June 2021 Nafplion
Arrival 17/6/2021 early morning
Departure 17/6/2021 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.
3 possible excursions
to this stopover
18 June 2021 Athens
Arrival 18/6/2021 early morning
Disembarkation 18/6/2021 at 06h00
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.
Sacred site of Delphi
4 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute picturesque drive through olive groves before reaching the Archaeological Site.
Once arriving, you will take the Sacred Way that was followed by ancient pilgrims and visitors to the site. The path begins at the southeast corner of the site and winds its way up the hillside, past ancient treasuries and monuments, to the temple of Apollo.
It is an imposing temple of the Doric order whose existence was woven through the turbulent history of the site and endured numerous incarnations. The remains that you can see date back to the 4th century B.C. The Temple of Apollo was first built around the 7th century B.C. by the two legendary architects Trophonios and Agamedes. The exterior was decorated with shields captured from the Persians at Plataea. This temple was also of the Doric order and had 6 columns at the front, and 15 columns at the flanks. Today, you can see one complete column of the facade and portions of five more columns. Also visible are the foundations of the outer colonnade and the interior sekos.
You will continue your walk and pass the spare ruins of the Senate of Delphi, followed be a pile of rocks, marking the site of the early Delphi Oracle which according to legend was guarded by the snake Python. For those who wish, the Theatre can be visited.
A few steps from the sanctuary of Apollo, the Delphi museum has exhibited for over a century, the objects found at the archaeological site. He is one of the four largest museums in Greece, with Athens and Olympia. Vases, bronzes, sculptures found in temples, offerings made to Apollo by the pilgrims, objects of gold and ivory found under the slabs of the Sacred Way can be admired in this museum.
At the end of your visit, you will join your coach and enjoy magnificent views over the Bay of Itea before reaching the charming town of Delphi.
Once arriving, you will enjoy free time to browse the shops before your return on Itea.
- This tour involves 3 hours of walking over uneven ground with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Monastery of Saint Lucas & Arachova
4 h 00
From the pier, embark your coach for the one-hour drive to the Saint Lucas Monastery. On the way, you will pass by Delphi and Arachova villages.
The historic walled monastery is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art and is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in Greece. It was founded in the early 10th century by the hermit Saint Lucas, whose relics are kept in the monastery. The main shrine is the tomb of Saint Lucas, originally situated in the vault, but later placed at the juncture of the two churches, the church of Theotokos and the Catholic Church which is the oldest in the complex.
Continue your journey with the visit of Arachova village. Arachova is a mountain small village and its quaint houses are built up on the north slopes of Mount Parnassos, with 3300 inhabitants, at 800 – 1,100m altitude. In 2000 B.C. Homer mentioned in the Iliad two famous generals who took part in the Trojan War Epistrophos and Schedias from the old towns of Anemoria and Kiparissos. These towns were situated around where Arachova stands today. Later, in about 334 B.C. Philip the Second King of Macedonia destroyed both towns and their populations dispersed over the hills until a new town, Arachova, was built. Today the 'jewel' of Parnassos Arachova remains vital because it keeps its traditions alive and the residents remain simple and hospitable. From the first moment, you will feel a different wind blowing up here, and understand why the locals work so hard to upkeep the areas natural beauty. This town is famous for its carpets and blankets woven by hand and for its wines and cheeses.
After a short walking tour and time to browse through the narrow streets with the numerous souvenir and local product shops, you will return to the ship.
- This tour involves 1 hour of walking over uneven and flat cobblestones streets and many steps (approximately 50 steps on the Monastery). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended: shoulders and knees covered.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
4 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Epidaurus.
At a distance of 18.5 miles (30 km) east from Nafplion, lies Epidaurus known for its ancient theatre. Considered as one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of Medicine, Asklepios. The world-famous 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 welcome 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a drive 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 Lions 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 drive to Nafplion.
- This tour involves approximately 2 hours of extensive walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Epidaurus, Mycenae & Palamidi
7 h 00
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Epidaurus.
At a distance of 18.5 miles (30 km) east from Nafplion, lies Epidaurus known for its ancient theatre. Considerate as one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of Medicine, Asklepios. The world-famous 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 welcome 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a drive 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 Lions 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.
After lunch, you will board your coach to return to Nafplion for a visit to the Palamidi Castle. The fortress is very well preserved and this great mass of masonry, with walls and fortifications that made it impregnable, broods menacingly over the town. From this vantage point you can admire the panoramic view of the entire Nafplio Basin including the town of Nafplion and the Bourtzi offshore. This castle was built by the Venetians and the Turks as a fortress and until relatively recently served as a prison.
Finally, re-board your coach for a short drive to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 3 hours of walking, steep inclines and standing on uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ancient Corinth & Corinth canal
4 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ½-hour drive to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
Back in the ancient times, Corinth was amongst the richest cities and this is quite evident by its remains, including the huge Agora (market square) and the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo. The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, are still continuing today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations extended also to the fortress on Acrocorinthos. But also, the prehistoric settlements, the Theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepeion, the cemeteries, the Quarter of the Potters, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 4 miles (6.3 km) long, 70 feet (21 m) wide and has sloping sides, which reach 170 feet (52 m). The depth is at 26 feet (8 m). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean Seas to provide a short cut seems to date back to at least Roman times. You will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos from atop.
Following your short stop to admire the canal, you will board your coach for a 45-minute drive back to Nafplion.
- This tour involves approximately 1 ½-hour of extensive walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's Zodiac® inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Until 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
112 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, lecturers 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, the stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or your shore visits, these experts will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Back-to-back offer
CONSECUTIVE CRUISES
Take advantage of our special consecutive cruises offers*
- When this cruise is in 2nd position get a -20% discount
- When this cruise is in 3rd position get a -30% discount
- When this cruise is in 4th position get a -40% discount
- When this cruise is in 5th position get a -50% discount
- When this cruise is in 6th position get a -60% discount
*Reduction does not apply to the first cruise and relates to the port/port fare excluding port taxes, non available for Ocean Voyages and subject to availability. The offer is only available on selected cruises. Please, contact us.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Before your cruise
During the cruise
After your cruise
TRANSFER FROM PALERMO AIRPORT TO THE PIER
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Palermo
Meet at Palermo airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach and be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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 : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sacred site of Delphi
4 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute picturesque drive through olive groves before reaching the Archaeological Site.
Once arriving, you will take the Sacred Way that was followed by ancient pilgrims and visitors to the site. The path begins at the southeast corner of the site and winds its way up the hillside, past ancient treasuries and monuments, to the temple of Apollo.
It is an imposing temple of the Doric order whose existence was woven through the turbulent history of the site and endured numerous incarnations. The remains that you can see date back to the 4th century B.C. The Temple of Apollo was first built around the 7th century B.C. by the two legendary architects Trophonios and Agamedes. The exterior was decorated with shields captured from the Persians at Plataea. This temple was also of the Doric order and had 6 columns at the front, and 15 columns at the flanks. Today, you can see one complete column of the facade and portions of five more columns. Also visible are the foundations of the outer colonnade and the interior sekos.
You will continue your walk and pass the spare ruins of the Senate of Delphi, followed be a pile of rocks, marking the site of the early Delphi Oracle which according to legend was guarded by the snake Python. For those who wish, the Theatre can be visited.
A few steps from the sanctuary of Apollo, the Delphi museum has exhibited for over a century, the objects found at the archaeological site. He is one of the four largest museums in Greece, with Athens and Olympia. Vases, bronzes, sculptures found in temples, offerings made to Apollo by the pilgrims, objects of gold and ivory found under the slabs of the Sacred Way can be admired in this museum.
At the end of your visit, you will join your coach and enjoy magnificent views over the Bay of Itea before reaching the charming town of Delphi.
Once arriving, you will enjoy free time to browse the shops before your return on Itea.
- This tour involves 3 hours of walking over uneven ground with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Monastery of Saint Lucas & Arachova
4 h 00
From the pier, embark your coach for the one-hour drive to the Saint Lucas Monastery. On the way, you will pass by Delphi and Arachova villages.
The historic walled monastery is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art and is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in Greece. It was founded in the early 10th century by the hermit Saint Lucas, whose relics are kept in the monastery. The main shrine is the tomb of Saint Lucas, originally situated in the vault, but later placed at the juncture of the two churches, the church of Theotokos and the Catholic Church which is the oldest in the complex.
Continue your journey with the visit of Arachova village. Arachova is a mountain small village and its quaint houses are built up on the north slopes of Mount Parnassos, with 3300 inhabitants, at 800 – 1,100m altitude. In 2000 B.C. Homer mentioned in the Iliad two famous generals who took part in the Trojan War Epistrophos and Schedias from the old towns of Anemoria and Kiparissos. These towns were situated around where Arachova stands today. Later, in about 334 B.C. Philip the Second King of Macedonia destroyed both towns and their populations dispersed over the hills until a new town, Arachova, was built. Today the 'jewel' of Parnassos Arachova remains vital because it keeps its traditions alive and the residents remain simple and hospitable. From the first moment, you will feel a different wind blowing up here, and understand why the locals work so hard to upkeep the areas natural beauty. This town is famous for its carpets and blankets woven by hand and for its wines and cheeses.
After a short walking tour and time to browse through the narrow streets with the numerous souvenir and local product shops, you will return to the ship.
- This tour involves 1 hour of walking over uneven and flat cobblestones streets and many steps (approximately 50 steps on the Monastery). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended: shoulders and knees covered.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
4 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Epidaurus.
At a distance of 18.5 miles (30 km) east from Nafplion, lies Epidaurus known for its ancient theatre. Considered as one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of Medicine, Asklepios. The world-famous 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 welcome 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a drive 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 Lions 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 drive to Nafplion.
- This tour involves approximately 2 hours of extensive walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Epidaurus, Mycenae & Palamidi
7 h 00
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute drive to Epidaurus.
At a distance of 18.5 miles (30 km) east from Nafplion, lies Epidaurus known for its ancient theatre. Considerate as one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of Medicine, Asklepios. The world-famous 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 welcome 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a drive 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 Lions 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.
After lunch, you will board your coach to return to Nafplion for a visit to the Palamidi Castle. The fortress is very well preserved and this great mass of masonry, with walls and fortifications that made it impregnable, broods menacingly over the town. From this vantage point you can admire the panoramic view of the entire Nafplio Basin including the town of Nafplion and the Bourtzi offshore. This castle was built by the Venetians and the Turks as a fortress and until relatively recently served as a prison.
Finally, re-board your coach for a short drive to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 3 hours of walking, steep inclines and standing on uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ancient Corinth & Corinth canal
4 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ½-hour drive to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
Back in the ancient times, Corinth was amongst the richest cities and this is quite evident by its remains, including the huge Agora (market square) and the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo. The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, are still continuing today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations extended also to the fortress on Acrocorinthos. But also, the prehistoric settlements, the Theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepeion, the cemeteries, the Quarter of the Potters, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 4 miles (6.3 km) long, 70 feet (21 m) wide and has sloping sides, which reach 170 feet (52 m). The depth is at 26 feet (8 m). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean Seas to provide a short cut seems to date back to at least Roman times. You will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos from atop.
Following your short stop to admire the canal, you will board your coach for a 45-minute drive back to Nafplion.
- This tour involves approximately 1 ½-hour of extensive walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
ATHENS, THE BYZANTINE & CHRISTIAN 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) 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.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.