Event 
Kid Explorers 
Superior Stateroom
30% Ponant Bonus
21 m2
3
From the City of the Gods to the City of the Doges with the Paris Opera Ballet
Athens - Venice
Dates:
1/8/2024
to
8/8/2024
days
nights on board
Classical, contemporary… Join the dance on this unique cruise resulting from a brand-new partnership with the Paris Opera Ballet and featuring ballerinas Valentine Colasante and Mathieu Ganio, accompanied by several dancers from the company.
Over 8 days, between Athens and Venice, come and experience a choreographic itinerary, with stage performances both on board and on land, dance and classical bar lessons, dance conferences, and screenings followed by discussions.
After your mythical and remarkable crossing of the Corinth Canal, you will fall under the spell of the island of Itea, not far from the marvellous archaeological site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Temple of Apollo stood here, constructed in the 4th century BC.
Next Corfu, the most famous Ionian island, will reveal the hidden treasures of its Greco-Byzantine and Venetian architectural heritage. It is the northernmost island in the Ionia Sea, both mountainous and woody, and its fascinating landscapes have inspired painters and writers such as Goethe, Alfred Sisley and Lawrence Durrell.
L’Austral will continue sailing north to the Adriatic Sea. The majestic, grandiose, iconic Bay of Kotor will stretch out before you. There is an air of the Norwegian fjords here in its sparkling blue waters. Nestling in the heart of a bay surrounded by rocky and woody summits, the city of Kotor will surprise you, as you stroll through the narrow little streets of its old town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its mediaeval architecture.
You will now leave the shores of Montenegro for Croatia. You will sail along the coast to reach the mythical city of Dubrovnik. In the aptly named “Pearl of the Adriatic”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be inspired by its millennia-old history, fascinated by its limestone cliffs sculpted by the wind and marvel at the heritage of its old town.
After a stopover on the magnificent island of Hvar, the last stage of your journey will take you to the charming city of Rovinj. An unexpected interlude, perfect for discovering this city with Venetian influences. Moreover, it proudly bears Venice’s symbolic winged lion on the Balbi's Arch.
As a grand finale, Venice the Serenissima, which is home, among other sites, to the mythical St Mark’s Square or the sumptuous Doge’s Palace, will mark the end of this enchanted moment.
Ref : AU010824
Your itinerary
An unprecedented partnership with the Paris Opera Ballet, and ballerinas Valentine Colasante and Mathieu Ganio, accompanied by several dancers from the company. Discover your programme without further delay -...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Our partner
Opéra national de Paris
A journey into the heart of the history of dance, this cruise promises a voyage discovering Opéra National’s classical and contemporary repertoire treasures thanks to the talent of six male and female dancers. With the theatrical landscapes of Greek and Croatian shores as a backdrop, you will experience the magic of ballet as close as it is possible to be ». Alexander Neef, Director General of the Opéra National de Paris
Find out moreChoose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Superior Stateroom
(21 m2)
From €3,920
30% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Stateroom
(18 m2)
From €4,240
30% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 4
(18 m2)
From €4,710
30% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 5
(18 m2)
From €4,940
30% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 6
(18 m2)
From €5,210
30% Ponant Bonus
Deluxe Suite
(27 m2)
From €7,240
30% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
(37 m2)
From €9,770
30% Ponant Bonus
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
(37 m2)
From €10,280
30% Ponant Bonus
Owner's Suite
(45 m2)
From €16,710
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*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.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (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 included
- 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
Valentine Colasante
Valentine Colasante spent her childhood between Italy and France in an artistic environment. She was very young when in 1998 she joined the Opéra National de Paris’ dance school where she trained for eight years. From then on she worked hard, pushing herself to the limits to become a complete artist. It all paid off when at the age of just 17 she was hired by the Opéra National de Paris’ prestigious ballet company in 2006. She very quickly rose up the ranks from Coryphée in 2010, Sujet in 2011 then Première danseuse in 2013.
On 5 January 2018 after her performance as Kitri in Don Quixote (Rudolf Nureyev), Valentine Colasante was promoted to Étoile.
She has since participated in numerous creative projects in artistic collaborations and on the Opéra National de Paris ballet company’s official tours, including performing in Australia (Sydney, 2007), China (Beijing, 2008), Russia (Novosibirsk, 2010), Malaysia (Singapore, 2011), USA (New York, 2017) and Spain (Madrid, 2019).
Languages spoken : French and English
Photo credit : Matthew Brookes
Mathieu Ganio
Mathieu Ganio is the son of Dominique Khalfouni, former Etoile of the Opéra National de Paris’ Ballet company who became a principle dancer in Roland Petit’s Ballet National de Marseille, and Denis Ganio, also a soloist at the Ballet National de Marseille.
He first appeared on stage in 1986 at the age of two, alongside his mother during the creation of Roland Petit’s Ma Pavlova. Mathieu Ganio and his younger sister Marine Ganio, a Sujet in the corps de ballet at Opéra National de Paris, then accompanied their parents on a tour of the Roland Petit Ballet company.
Mathieu Ganio began dance lessons at the age of seven in the Ballet Studio run by Colette Armand, mother of the dancer Patrick Armand.
From 1992-1999, he trained at the École Nationale Supérieure de Danse de Marseille. In 1999, he entered the ballet school at the Opéra National de Paris, performing the role of Franz in Coppélia at the school’s end-of-year performance That year he joined the Ballet de l’Opéra company’s corps de ballet and was promoted to Coryphée in 2002 and Sujet in 2003.
On 20 May 2004, aged 20, Mathieu Ganio was made an Etoile following a performance of Don Quixote, bypassing the grade of premier danseur. It was a total surprise as he was not supposed to dance this role initially.
Mathieu Ganio is an ‘Officier des Arts et Lettres’ for his contribution to dance, and winner of the Benois de la Danse prize in 2005.
On the Ballet de l’Opéra’s official tours, he has performed in Switzerland (Geneva, 2009), Japan (Tokyo 2010, 2013 and 2020 / Nagoya, 2013), Australia (Sydney, 2012), USA (Chicago / Washington / New York, 2012), Malaysia (Singapore, 2012) and United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi, 2019).
Languages spoken : French and English
Photo credit : James Bort
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
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
Kid Explorers
PONANT has joined forces with the Maud Fontenoy Foundation to run its Kid Explorers children’s club.
As part of its commitment to safeguarding the oceans, during your cruise PONANT offers an activity programme for children aged 4 to 13 years old to familiarise them with issues related to protecting our oceans. We have special educational kits, activity sheets and themed videos all provided by the Foundation.
Every day a team of activity leaders organises creative activities (crafts, painting, etc.), fun educational workshops, board games, introduction to meditation sessions and more, as well as activities specific to the cruise itinerary and number of participants. There are also activities ashore to prolong the experience for your Kid Explorers such as walks, treasure hunts and swimming.
The activity programme is available every day up to 9.30pm (and as an exception until 10.30pm on gala evenings). To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to fit in with your cruise programme. For more information, contact the team organising the activities.
Activity schedules are posted daily in the logbook.
Every child receives a welcome kit with gifts enclosed.
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Activities will depend on the number and age of the children who register and the weather conditions.
Please note disembarkations are only for children aged 4 and over, and that those under 4 may not be left on the ship with the Kid Explorers Club.
Parents or guardians must read the ‘General information on the PONANT Kid Explorers Club’ and sign a form authorising the Kid Explorers Club to look after their child on board and for outings ashore.
Opéra national de Paris
Successor to the Royal Academy of Music founded by Louis XIV in 1669, the Opéra National de Paris is a national and international reference renowned for its opera, music and dance programming. A public institution under the Ministry of Culture and Communication, its main missions are: to make opera and dance works from our heritage accessible to as many people as possible; to promote creation and performance of contemporary works; to participate in development of lyrical and choreographic art in France; to stage shows in Paris, the provinces and abroad; and endeavour to broadcast its productions by audio-visual, particularly digital, means.
A journey into the heart of the history of dance, this cruise promises a voyage discovering Opéra National’s classical and contemporary repertoire treasures thanks to the talent of six male and female dancers. With the theatrical landscapes of Greek and Croatian shores as a backdrop, you will experience the magic of ballet as close as it is possible to be ». Alexander Neef, Director General of the Opéra National de Paris
For the first time in its history, the Opéra National de Paris has partnered with PONANT to share the beauty and excellence of its rich dance repertoire in an intimate environment. During this enchanting odyssey, ashore and aboard, join the dance and be part of moments suspended in time, between outstanding performances, unique encounters, lectures on dance, dance lessons and screenings, alongside two Étoile dancers and four others from the Opéra National de Paris’ ballet company. From Athens to Venice, discover a panorama of the history of dance through excerpts from major works in the company’s repertoire.
Ashore during legendary ports of call in Corfu and Dubrovnik, you will have the privilege of attending two outstanding performances on the break to get away from it all (3 August in Corfu’s municipal theatre; 5 August in Dubrovnik’s Marin Držić theatre). On this cruise, the full extent of the classical and contemporary repertoire will unfold before your eyes.
Aboard, your Mediterranean voyage offers unique opportunities to meet the Étoile dancers, Valentine Colasante and Mathieu Ganio, and those from the corps de ballet. Privileged moments await you to learn more about the life and careers of these prestigious artists. As the ship sails on, against the captivating backdrop of Greek and Croatian shores, you can attend the lectures and screenings which are followed by discussions. You will also have a chance to join introductory classical ballet classes.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- An unprecedented partnership with the Paris Opera Ballet, and ballerinas Valentine Colasante and Mathieu Ganio, accompanied by several dancers from the company. Discover your programme without further delay - click here!
- Unique moments, including live performances on board and on land, meet-and-greets, dance conferences, dance lessons, screenings during a cruise between the Aegean, the Ionian and the Adriatic Seas.
- Hourlong classical and contemporary performances at the Corfu and Dubrovnik Theaters.
- Privileged exchanges with the stars Valentine Colasante and Mathieu Ganio, and the dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Acropolis of Athens, the sanctuary of Delphi (from Itea), the old towns of Corfu, Kotor and Dubrovnik, the plain of Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, Venice and its lagoon.
- Exceptional panoramas of mythical cities and emblematic saillings in the Bay of Kotor and the Corinth Canal.
Ports of Call & Excursions
1 August 2024 - Athens
Embarkation 1/8/2024 from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Departure 1/8/2024 at 9:00 pm
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.
2 August 2024 - Crossing the Corinth Canal
Arrival 2/8/2024
Departure 2/8/2024
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!
2 August 2024 - Itea
Arrival 2/8/2024 early afternoon
Departure 2/8/2024 early evening
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.
3 August 2024 - Corfu
Arrival 3/8/2024 midday
Departure 3/8/2024 late afternoon
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.
4 August 2024 - Kotor
Arrival 4/8/2024 midday
Departure 4/8/2024 early evening
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 colourful costumes are often organised.
5 August 2024 - Dubrovnik
Arrival 5/8/2024 early morning
Departure 5/8/2024 evening
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.
6 August 2024 - Hvar
Arrival 6/8/2024 early morning
Departure 6/8/2024 late afternoon
Off the coast of Split, Hvar will surprise you by its traditions that have not changed since Antiquity. The country’s oldest town, Stari Grad, is here on this Dalmatian Island. The town nestles by a cove on the north-west 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.
7 August 2024 - Rovinj
Arrival 7/8/2024 midday
Departure 7/8/2024 late afternoon
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, symbol of Venice. The bell-tower erected beside Saint Euphemia Cathedral was designed like the bell of Saint Mark 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-coloured streets leading to bustling squares and terraces shaded by canvas awnings.
8 August 2024 - Venice
Arrival 8/8/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 8/8/2024 at 8:00 am
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.
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.
Up to 264 Guests
132 staterooms & suites
145 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Event
Experience exceptional moments with PONANT during cruises specially designed to commemorate key historical events or in conjunction with the world’s leading arts establishments. Without a doubt, commemorating the bicentenary of Emperor Napoleon’s death where it happened in Saint Helena, attending a concert featuring the Opéra de Paris’ most beautiful voices or celebrating a host of other events in style and comfort aboard our luxurious ships constitutes an unforgettable experience.
Kid Explorers
Welcome to all our young explorers! Thanks to the Kid Explorers Club by the Maud Fontenoy Foundation, children aged 4 and up can take advantage of a wide variety of activities orchestrated by a team of activity leaders: creative activities, board games, DVD evenings, finding out what the crew do, or supervised outings and walks ashore for the 4+ age group. Helping children to learn about the oceans and the need to protect them is at the heart of our approach. So why not savour the magic of your destination in peace and quiet knowing your child is busy with an activity programme, specially designed for them in partnership with the Maud Fontenoy Foundation and posted each day in the daily program.