Kids Club 
Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
Turkish shores and Greek archipelagos of the Aegean
Istanbul - Istanbul
Dates:
20/7/2022
to
30/7/2022
Other available dates
days
nights on board
In partnership with MAUD FONTENOY FOUNDATION.
Departing from Istanbul, PONANT brings you an itinerary along the coastlines in the Aegean Sea, to discover outstanding natural and historical sites. During this 11-day cruise, Le Bougainville will revisit the shores of Turkey and the Greek archipelagos of the Dodecanese and Cyclades.
Your voyage will start with a call at the Çesme peninsula. The imposing Ottoman fortress dominates the azurean sea and the small multicultural city, prized by the Smyrniots seeking freshness, reveals itself through the picturesque streets of Alaçati and the enchanting beaches.
You will continue your tour of the Turkish shores as you visit the town of Kusadasi, not far from the Ephesus site. An old fishing village with history going back 5,000 years, is now one of Turkey’s most famous seaside resorts.
Offering historical visits to the remains of the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus or the famous Castle of St Peter or the Museum Of Underwater Archaeology, and the chance for a relaxing break on its stunning beaches, Bodrum is sure to win your heart.
Head for the Dodecanese islands, at the crossroads of the Orient and the Occident. The beautiful neoclassical houses surrounded by vineyards, olive trees and cypresses make Symi one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago. You will then set a course towards Patmos, known as the 'Jerusalem of the Aegean Sea'. This island, where Saint John is said to have written the Apocalypse, offers unique landscapes combining white sandy beaches and rocky coves.
In the south-eastern Aegean Sea, the Cyclades archipelago invites you to enjoy the wild and appealing beauty of Milos and Paros. You will also make a detour via the island of Hydra, famous for its incomparable light and the calm of its small streets on which all motorised traffic is banned.
Then you will reach Istanbul, a rich historical UNESCO listed site, at the end of a magnificent cruise.
Ref : G200722
Your itinerary
In partnership with MAUD FONTENOY FOUNDATION. A cruise along the Turkish and Greek coasts of the Aegean Sea, from splendid natural landscapes to exceptional cultural sites at the crossroads of the Orient and...
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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.
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LE JACQUES-CARTIER
LE SOLEAL
21/10/2022 to the 1/11/2022
- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
L'AUSTRAL
4/11/2022 to the 20/11/2022
- New
LE LAPEROUSE
9/11/2022 to the 23/11/2022
*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 Wi-Fi Internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Hermès 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)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
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.
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's Club
Children aged 4 to 13 can take part in age-appropriate activities organised aboard the ship by the PONANT Kid’s Club activity leader: manual, physical or cultural activities, board games, DVD evenings.
These activities are held in the mornings, afternoons and evenings until 9.30 pm (10.30 pm on gala evenings). The times can fit in with your cruise schedule: please check with the activity leaders beforehand.
Each day, the Kid’s Club programme will be added to the standard daily programme to inform you of the details and times of activities planned for the young seafarers the next day!
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The activities on offer will depend on the number children signed up, their respective ages, and the weather conditions.
During the landings with the kids aged 6 and over, the younger children will not be able to attend the Kid’s Club aboard the ship.
Parents or accompanying adults must read the “General information about the PONANT Kid’s Club” document and sign a permission slip authorising the child/children in their care to be looked after by the Kid’s Club on board and during outings.
Maud Fontenoy Foundation
Since 2008, the Maud Fontenoy Foundation has been operating in France and internationally to protect our oceans. We organise educational activities focused on the environment for the younger generation and general public, with support from scientific partners and the French Ministry of National Education. The latter has made us responsible for its Sea Education programme and relaunch of the Sea Classes initiative. Our aim is both ecological and social: to protect the ocean and save people. We start from a strong principle that protecting the environment, particularly the ocean, is a humanitarian issue that affects all mankind, without exception. For us, the oceans are a powerful force, a potential for the future. Every year, 700,000 children benefit from our programmes.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- In partnership with MAUD FONTENOY FOUNDATION.
- A cruise along the Turkish and Greek coasts of the Aegean Sea, from splendid natural landscapes to exceptional cultural sites at the crossroads of the Orient and the Occident.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Istanbul (port of embarkation and disembarkation), the historical sites of Ephesus from Kusadasi, the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse on the Island of Patmos.
- A new call in Çesme, a charming coastal town known for its thermal baths, cultural treasures and idyllic setting.
- The port of call at Bodrum, an elegant seaside resort sometimes known as “the Turkish Saint-Tropez.”
- Discover Patmos, an unspoilt Greek Island.
- An immersive journey to the heart of the Cyclades and the discovery of Milos, Paros and Hydra.
- The possibility of visiting Istanbul before or after your cruise.
Ports of Call & Excursions
20 July 2022 - Istanbul
Embarkation 20/7/2022 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Departure 20/7/2022 at 5:00 pm
Located on the Bosphorus, Istanbul is one of the most beautiful of all Turkish cities. Named Byzantium when founded by the Greeks, and then Constantinople under the Roman Empire, this city is steeped in history and, for this reason, is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. Located on Sultanahmet hill, the great Blue Mosque, the mysterious Hagia Sophia and the vast Topkapi palace and its countless mosaics, dominate the Marmara Sea. In the Beyazit district, the Grand Bazaar allows to discover elegant covered passages. A little further away, delicate aroma of loukoum and spices will draw the visitors’ attention at the Egyptian Bazaar.
21 July 2022 - Çesme
Arrival 21/7/2022 early afternoon
Departure 21/7/2022 evening
Located on a peninsula in western Anatolia, Çesme is a popular seaside resort on the Aegean Sea. It owes its name, meaning fountain in Turkish, to the natural hot springs dotted around the city. Cesme’s cool summertime weather makes it the favourite holiday spot of Izmir locals. Built in 1508, the imposing Ottoman castle overlooking the port is home to the archaeology museum and will delight fans of history. Nearby, the former Ottoman caravanserai is now the site of a grand hotel. Traditional windmills and stone houses lined with narrow streets form the picturesque decor of the nearby village of Alacati, confirming the region’s Greek heritage, and invite visitors to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere at an outdoor café.
22 July 2022 - Kusadasi
Arrival 22/7/2022 early morning
Departure 22/7/2022 late evening
The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. You can bathe there in clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk, in the shade of palms. In the historical district, you can take a mosey down the narrow streets and explore the colourful shops in the bazaar. Close by, the Ephesus archaeological site in the hillsides provides an opportunity to discover the ruins of one of the most famous cities of Antiquity.
23 July 2022 - Bodrum
Arrival 23/7/2022 midday
Departure 23/7/2022 late evening
Bodrum is located one of the bays of Mugla on the west coast of Turkey. At the harbour entrance, you’ll can’t miss The Bodrum Castle of The Knights of St. John, the town’s emblem. Here you will be able to visit the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology housed within the castle precincts. In the centre, the passages shaded by arbours abound with diverse craft shops and ice-cream cafés where you can sit out and enjoy refreshing citrus fruit sorbets. A few streets away, the archaeological site of the Halicarnasse mausoleum invites you to experience the old town’s past, just as the old theatre does, built on the slopes of the hillside looking out over the bay of Bodrum.
24 July 2022 - Symi
Arrival 24/7/2022 early morning
Departure 24/7/2022 late afternoon
A simply ravishing gem in the Dodecanese, Symi is located north-west of Rhodes. This island of cypress forests, vineyards and olive orchards, possesses a capital city of the same name that is as colourful as the surrounding countryside. The charm of the port district of Gialos is not to be missed: its quaysides are lined with picturesque houses with multi-coloured facades. You can get to the upper town by car or climb the 500 steps up the Kali Strata ramp. The second option offers superb viewing points of the coast and gorgeous turquoise waters.
25 July 2022 - Patmos
Arrival 25/7/2022 early morning
Departure 25/7/2022 evening
Patmos is one of the legendary must-see islands in the Dodecanese. This is where Saint John resided, presumed author of the last book in the Bible. The cave of the Apocalypse and the Saint John Monastery are dedicated to him. These sites, which are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are located at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer absolutely gorgeous swimming areas.
26 July 2022 - Adamas, Milos
Arrival 26/7/2022 early morning
Departure 26/7/2022 mid afternoon
Although Milos is especially renowned for the famous statue of Venus found in a field there and now displayed in the Louvre in Paris, this mineral island is also a geological treasure. Its volcanic origin is evident in its breathtaking landscapes and the colours of its cliffs, ranging from pure white to deep red. You’ll discover the wild beauty of the shorelines lined with the most beautiful beaches in Greece from a ship deck, and you’ll enjoy privileged access to emerald-green coves. Tiny fishing ports like Adamas hide there, with brightly-painted doors and terraces. Milos is a charming port of call in the heart of the Cyclades.
27 July 2022 - Paros
Arrival 27/7/2022 early morning
Departure 27/7/2022 late afternoon
Famous for its white marble, the island of Paros is located in the Cyclades. Along the quays of Parikia, its main town, you’ll see Byzantine churches and neoclassical buildings. To make the most of the turquoise waters, you can stop over in Naoussa. This little fishing port is bounded by a very beautiful cove.
28 July 2022 - Hydra
Arrival 28/7/2022 early morning
Departure 28/7/2022 late evening
This unusual gem belonging to the Saronic islands is located to the east of the Peloponnese. There are no cars here. Named after the island, the harbour town is layered up the slopes of a mountainous bay. You may be surprised to see beautiful stone mansions. These are traditional here, as are the multi-coloured caïques along the quays. Further along the shore, you will discover the Historical Archives Museum. Collections from Athens National History Museum are exhibited in the elegant villa Koundouriotis.
29 July 2022 - At sea
Arrival 29/7/2022
Departure 29/7/2022
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.
30 July 2022 - Istanbul
Arrival 30/7/2022 early morning
Disembarkation 30/7/2022 at 7:00 am
Located on the Bosphorus, Istanbul is one of the most beautiful of all Turkish cities. Named Byzantium when founded by the Greeks, and then Constantinople under the Roman Empire, this city is steeped in history and, for this reason, is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. Located on Sultanahmet hill, the great Blue Mosque, the mysterious Hagia Sophia and the vast Topkapi palace and its countless mosaics, dominate the Marmara Sea. In the Beyazit district, the Grand Bazaar allows to discover elegant covered passages. A little further away, delicate aroma of loukoum and spices will draw the visitors’ attention at the Egyptian Bazaar.
Charming Alacati
Alacati is located 10 km southeast of Cesme and famous for its excellent olive oil and windsurfing weather conditions.
You will depart the port by coach for a scenic drive to Alacati Bay. A photo stop is planned en route.
The town of Alacati has a rich history mostly due to its Greek past dating back to the 17th century. The Greek population was forced to leave in 1914, this region was then a land of agriculture but also a significant military zone with its strategic position. Alacati is now a popular holiday destination for the well-to-do of Izmir who have a country houses here.
The first thing you will see when you arrive in Alacati is its impressive windmills. You will stroll with your guide through the cobblestone streets and admire the beautifully restored stone houses enjoying the Bohemian atmosphere of the town. You will visit the Church Aios Constantinos built in 1874 and later converted to a mosque.
Enjoy a refreshment with cookies cooked with mastic gum which is made only in this region. Then, you will have free time before returning to your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking in cobblestones street. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered).
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover Cesme
Cesme is located at the very end of the peninsula bearing its name. The region was called Cesme because of the abundance of spring waters in and around the town, and because of the icy water flowing from its fountains. Cesme means “fountain” in Turkish.
Now a resort town well-known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear water, Cesme’richness also comes from its cultural heritage. After a short coach drive, you will start a guided walking tour of the Old Town. During your walk, you will discover its central square, its lively streets occupied by many shops, its historic houses, and of course its fountains.
You will visit the Church of Agios Haralambos built in 1832. The church that was built as a place of worship for Greeks and all Orthodox. It was transformed into an art gallery after is restoration.
We will then walk to the Castle that was commissioned by Sultan Beyazid II in 1502 to defend the coast against pirates. This citadel offers an exceptional view of the port and the bay. It houses a small museum on the history of the region and the naval Battle of Chesma which took place in the bay of Cesme in the 18th century.
At the end of the tour we will walk back to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 1 ½ hours of walking on uneven surfaces and involves climbing many steps inside the Castle. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment stop is included on your tour.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ephesus & the house of Mary
From the pier, you will embark your coach for a 30-minute drive through a picturesque winding road lined with pine trees to reach the House of Virgin Mary, a protected pilgrimage site.
Clinging to the side of Bulbul Mountain outside of Ephesus, this house is believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary. According to the Vatican, Mary came here towards the end of her life in the company of St. John around 40 AD. Nowadays, every year, Christians and Muslims (who honour “Meryemana” as the mother of a great Prophet), make religious pilgrimages to the site. Below the house you will find a fountain, where a sacred spring feeds three fonts, each bestowing a unique blessing upon visitors.
From the house of the Virgin Mary, you will continue on to nearby Ephesus. Originally dedicated to Cybele, the goddess of fertility, during the prehistoric times, the city was claimed by the Ionians for Artemis and later to Diana by the Romans.
Ephesus is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman sites of the ancient world in the whole Mediterranean. Excavated since 1869, most of the main streets and public buildings have been unearthed and opened for visitors. Everything is here: town hall, dwellings, shops and even public toilets. A town of white marble dazzling in the sunshine, Ephesus is like a stone history book recounting the story of what daily life must have been like in the time of the Greeks and Romans.
During your tour, you will discover the Roman Ephesus. Most of the monuments were built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Due to its location, the city was developed into two sections: the upper part of the city was the administrative sector with the town hall, a civil basilica and the Odeon aligned on the north side of the State Agora. The lower section facing the port houses religious, commercial and cultural buildings, such as the famous Celsius Library, Roman Villas, commercial agora and its theatre, which accommodated up to 24,000 spectators, and the stadium.
Residences of the town’s nobility are grouped on the slopes of Mount Pion and Mount Coressos on either side of Couretes Street, which links the town’s two districts. The site is also famous for its Hercules Gate, the ancient Scholastikia baths, the Marble Street and Hadrian’s temple.
- This tour involves two and half hours of walking on uneven ground with some steps. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €50
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ephesus & Roman Villas
From the pier, you will embark your coach for a 30-minute drive to the Ephesus site, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean basin.
Originally dedicated to Cybele, the goddess of fertility, during the prehistoric times, the city was claimed by the Ionians for Artemis and later to Diana by the Romans. Ephesus is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman sites of the ancient world in the whole Mediterranean. Excavated since 1869, most of the main streets and public buildings have been unearthed and opened for visitors. Everything is here: town hall, dwellings, shops and even public toilets. A town of white marble dazzling in the sunshine, Ephesus is like a stone history book recounting the story of what daily life must have been like in the time of the Greeks and Romans.
During your tour, you will discover the Roman Ephesus. Most of the monuments were built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Due to its location, the city was developed into two sections: the upper part of the city was the administrative sector with the town hall, a civil basilica and the Odeon aligned on the north side of the State Agora. The lower section facing the port houses religious, commercial and cultural buildings, such as the famous Celsius Library, Roman Villas, commercial agora and its theatre, which accommodated up to 24,000 spectators, and the stadium.
You will start your tour at the upper gate of Ephesus, which is also known as the Magnesium Gate. Your guide will lead you on a leisurely downhill walking tour through Ephesus’ marble streets, passing and pointing out all the historically important buildings on the way.
You will move on to the recently excavated Terrace Houses complex which are also known as the houses of the rich Ephesians. Located on the northern slope of Bulbul Mountain next to Curetes Street and opposite the Temple of Hadrian, these houses were built in the peristyle form with a courtyard surrounded by Ionic colonnades. They are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes. Built in the period of Augustus, they were inhabited until the 7th century AD according to evidence from excavations.
Then, you will visit one of the most impressive sites of Ephesus, the Library of Celsus. Built in 135 BC by a son in homage to his father, this library is finely decorated with columns and sculptures.
Finally, after just a short walk away, you will join the Grand theatre where St Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to give up their worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith.
- This tour involves two and a half hours of walking on uneven ground with steps. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The visit of the Roman Villas will be guided by the archaeologist who leads the excavations. This tour is limited to 40 participants.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Bodrum Castle & Mausoleum
You will be taken to Bodrum’s old town by mini-bus. Here you will have an opportunity to explore this fascinating ancient fortress.
The Castle of St. Peter was built by the Knights of Rhodes between 1415 and 1513 in honour of the saint. On this occasion they used stone and marble from the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, for its construction. The highest point is the French Tower which rises to 47.5 metres (155 ft) above sea-level. There are four other towers each reflecting the architectural style of the nations who built them: the English Tower, the Spanish Tower, the German Tower and the Italian Tower. As they had such a powerful fleet, the Knights built a smallish wall looking out to sea and a much thicker, more fortified one facing the mainland. When the Ottomans took over the castle in 1523, they converted the chapel into a mosque and much later added a Hammam. After 1895 the castle was turned into a prison, and then in 1960 it became a museum housing numerous undersea archaeological discoveries. The terrace garden features an unusual collection of typical Mediterranean plants, some of which are steeped in the mythology of the ancient Greeks and Romans. For example, myrtle is the plant of love and Aphrodite.
After this visit you will be taken to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus (ancient Bodrum). The Mausoleum was built as a tomb for the Carian King Mausolus between 353 and 350 BC, and was conceived by his wife and sister Artemisia II of Caria. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the tomb is today an open air museum, and they believe that it was originally around 55 metres (180 ft) in height. The structure and the elaborate reliefs which adorn the tomb were the work of Greek architects and the most talented sculptors of that period. The tomb survived intact for over 1,500 years until it was almost totally destroyed by an earthquake. The Knights of Rhodes did further damage when they removed any usable materials to build the Castle of Saint Peter in the 15th century.
- As this visit is entirely on foot over uneven terrain with many steps inside the castle, we advise you to wear comfortable shoes and to protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover Bodrum bay by local boat
From the pier, a 5-minute walk will take you to the cruise terminal to board a traditional Turkish boat.
Throughout its history, Bodrum has played an important role in maritime trade and shipping. In the olden days, numerous boatyards lined the coves around the bay, and the schooners built here were used by fishermen and sponge divers. However, because they were fast and easy to manoeuvre against pirates, they were soon being exported to carry merchandise throughout the Mediterranean, and as far as the Indian Ocean and French West Indies. Their shape evolved depending on the seas in which they were sailing, so for example in the Black Sea their hulls are much deeper to accommodate more goods. In Bodrum on the other hand, the hull has remained relatively shallow and close to the water to make it easier to fish. Every year the town hosts a unique event called the Bodrum Cup, an international regatta which attracts amateurs and professionals alike. The aim is to encourage and develop the use of these traditional sailing boats in the heart of the Gokova Gulf.
Comfortably installed under awnings to protect you from the sun, you will sail across Bodrum Bay to an anchorage where you can revel in the peace and quiet and enjoy a swim in the turquoise blue waters of the Aegean Sea. One refreshment will be served on board.
After a last swimming stop, you will return to the pier and stroll back to your ship.
- This tour involves easy walking to the wooden boat on a flat ground. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Even if a small cabin is available for changing, we recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes. A soft drink is included on your tour.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Photo safari in Patmos
This tour, covering the south side of the island, not only gives you the opportunity of discovering hidden places but also an opportunity to photograph the most amazing land and seascapes along.
From the pier, board your minibus to the old village of Chora, the island’s capital and a photographer’s paradise! Your first experience is a panoramic view right over the island and over the 11th century monastery built like a fort, standing with proud dominance. You will be guided through Chora’s labyrinth of winding cobbled streets and maze of arched alleyways. The settlement of white-washed houses dating from 16th century, reflects the light casting shadows and creating geometric patterns. The alleys, arches and doorways display a harmonious balance revealing subtle architectural details which, through your lens, can become exciting atmospheric images trapped in time.
You will continue with a short drive to the top of Profit Illias Mountain, the highest point of the island - 880 feet (269 m) above sea level.
Continue to Diakofti stopping off to photograph the view of the mystical rock of Petra and then go to a boatyard. Here you will have the opportunity to photograph the local islanders at work and the streamline shapes of vessels in dry dock.
After a local refreshment, and your camera full of great images, you will return to Skala port.
- This tour involves approximately 1.2 miles (2 km) of walking over uneven surfaces, narrow and cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. You will use your own camera on this tour. A supplement of €25 per person will be applied if there are less than 10 participants. This tour is conducted by an English-speaking guide. No translation will be provided. This tour is limited to 18 participants. The observation of the workers and vessels in dry dock is not guaranteed. The guide is not a photograph and do not give any information regarding the use of the camera.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
Saint John Monastery & Apocalypse Cave
From the pier, board your coach for a drive to the Saint John Monastery. Overlooking Skala port and the island’s southern region, this medieval monastery looks more like a fortress than a house of prayer. It was built to repel attacks by pirates.
In the year 95 AD, Saint John the Evangelist was banished from Ephesus and exiled to Patmos, which in the days of the Roman Empire was where those who were exiled were sent.
In 1088, the Byzantine Emperor Alexios Komnenos authorised Saint Christodoulos, an abbot from Asia Minor, to erect a monastery in memory of Saint John. The whole island was yielded to the monastery. The adjoining Theotokos Chapel has frescoes dating back to the 12th century. Other Byzantine treasures are found in the monastery. Today this holy place is a veritable museum of Byzantine art thanks to the countless frescoes, icons, holy objects and manuscripts contained within its walls.
After visiting the monastery, a short drive away, will take you to the Apocalypse Cave where the final chapter of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle. The Book of Revelation prophecy came to him through a symbolic vision and was written in Greek. This cave was the house of the evangelist and now is surrounded by a monastery and school of theology. You can see the resting place outlined in beaten silver where St John laid his head every night. To the right the rock is shaped like a pulpit and is where the disciple, Prochoros, wrote the revelation as dictated by John.
Finally, you will re-board your coach for the drive back to the pier.
- This excursion is not suitable for people who have difficulty walking. The coach will drop you near the old town, and access to the monastery is on foot via cobblestone streets. Altogether you will have to go up and down about 100 steps. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. It is not permitted to take photos inside the chapel or the cave.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Paros by boat & swimming
From the pier, board your motorboat and start your cruise around Antiparos Island.
Antiparos is a small and quiet island which houses only one village built around the Venetian fort, example of fortification of the 15th century. Hosting many sandy beaches, this island became famous the last couple of years, as many Hollywood actors and singers like Tom Hanks, Angelina Jolie and Madonna have their own properties.
During your boat trip, you will see many beaches where you will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Your first stop will be a sandy beach with its turquoise waters, where you will enjoy time for swimming and snorkeling. Your second stop will be at anchorage in a cove, from where you can go explore a cave while snorkelling.
After enjoying a final swim in crystal clear waters, you will have some refreshment.
Finally, you will return to the port of Alyki, where your coach will be waiting for you to get back to your ship.
- This tour involves some walking and some steps. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Passengers wishing to participate in this excursion must be able to embark and disembark without assistance. The boat is roof covered. The boat is equipped with toilets, ladders, fresh water shower and sunbeds. As the boat cannot go directly to the beaches, you will reach the beaches by swimming. Masks and snorkel are provided onboard. This tour is limited to 30 participants.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Parikia & Naoussa
From the pier, board your coach for a 10-minute drive to the famous Byzantine Church of Ekatontapyliani. Also named the “Lady of the hundred doors”, this church is one of the greatest early Christian monuments in Greece. The name was a creation of the 17th century scholars who wanted to compare the splendour of the church to that of the Temple of Hundred Doors (Ekatonpylon) in ancient Thebes of Egypt.
Following your visit, you will board your coach for a panoramic drive to the traditional village of Lefkes.
Lefkes is the most mountainous village of Paros and the most verdurous one. It was the first capital of Paros. The village is located under a pineforest on the hill. Follow your guide on a walking tour through its narrow streets with white walls. See the old wash-houses that are still used by some housewives, the House of Literature, the picturesque Ramnos, a street with taverns and other stores and the wonderful view: the sea and Naxos in the background. The houses are built amphitheatrical. The first residents were immigrants that came from Crete and Naoussa and locals who chose to build their village on the mountain, in order to be protected from the pirates. The town hall was built with the famous marble of Paros.
Once leaving Lefkes, you will head for the picturesque village of Naoussa. The port of Naoussa is protected by a separate fortification, the Venetian Castle. The fortification was built in the 15th century by the dynasty of Sommaripas and emerges from the sea behind the small harbour with the traditional fish boats. Today, although half sunk, the castle offers a very impressive sight worth seeing.
Before rejoining your ship, you will have some free time to stroll around its narrow streets, little squares and traditional whitewashed houses.
- This tour involves approximately 2 hours of moderate walking mainly on flat ground, a few steps are to be expected at the Church of Ekatontapyliani. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
History of Hydra
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, port and waterfront unspoiled by motorised vehicles. This island offers a rugged charm and many scenes to discover.
From the pier, follow your guide on a walking exploration through the island's historical landmarks. Your first stop will be the Hydra Museum - Historical Archives where you may admire 19th century paintings of considerable artistic value as well as rich documental and photographic material detailing the long maritime tradition and history of the island.
Continuing your walk around the port, you will visit the Church of the Dormitian, which houses icons, chandeliers and other offerings from the wealthy seafarers of the island. It is even said one of the chandeliers was stolen from Louis XIV and given to the church.
Enjoy a coffee or a refreshment together with Hydra's local sweet " amygdaloto" at a promenade local coffee shop.
Next, take the road uphill to reach Koundouriotis Mansion, one of the finest examples of the traditional 18th and 19th century architecture of Hydra. Built in 1780 by the ship owner Lazaros Koundouriotis, it now houses various items from the National Historical Museum of Athens, such as traditional costumes, jewellery, fine embroideries, pottery and wood-carvings.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Hydra's little alleys and stone houses before your return to the port.
- This tour is entirely on foot, walking over uneven ground, cobble stone streets and steps (70-80 steps). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. The refreshment is included on your tour.
Total : €45
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.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Kids Club
Welcome, little sailors! Thanks to the PONANT Kids Club, children aged 4 and up can enjoy activities designed and organised by a team of activity leaders on board, including craft, board games, DVD evenings, discovering the occupations on board, or supervised outings and shore excursions for those over the age of six. Savour the magic of your destination with total peace of mind thanks to a range of activities specially designed for your children and announced each day in the daily programme.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer 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, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TRANSFER FROM ISTANBUL AIRPORT TO THE PIER WITH PANORAMIC DRIVE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Istanbul
Meet at Istanbul 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 proceed to a panoramic drive of this fascinating and mysterious capital. Created along the Bogazici (the Bosphorus), a 16.8-mile-long strip of water which connects the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea, Istanbul is a city with a European and an Asian side. Both have their own personalities, history and charm. Inhabited since the 7th century B.C., it is a city that has known many rulers and names including Byzantia, Constantinopolis and of course, Istanbul. Sultans and Emperors have called this city home – and it has been the capital of Roman, and Ottoman empires.
During your approximate 1-hour drive, you will have a chance to observe the historical part of Istanbul, the Balat district where different cultures met in the past (Jewish, Armenian and Orthodox). We will continue driving along the Golden Horn, that was an old trading harbour and a popular residential area during the Byzantine period. We will also see part of the city walls of Constantinople, the Bulgarian Church and the Greek patriarchal church which overlooks the famous Golden Horn.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide from the airport to the port.
Your programme does not include:
- Lunch.
- Visa fees, if necessary.
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
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 : €70
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
DISCOVER ISTANBUL THE MAGNIFICENT (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Istanbul
Meet at Istanbul Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Ciragan Palace Kempinski 5* (about 40-minutes’ drive).
Check-in.
End of the day and dinner at leisure.
Day 2 - Istanbul
After breakfast and check-out, you will depart the hotel to explore some of the beauties of Istanbul.
Created along the Bogazici (the Bosphorus), a 16.8-mile-long strip of water which connects the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea, Istanbul is a city with a European and an Asian side. Both have their own personalities, history, and charm. Inhabited since the 7th century BC, it is a city that has known many rulers and names including Byzantia, Constantinopolis and of course, Istanbul. Sultans and Emperors have called this city home – and it has been the capital of Roman, Ottoman and other empires.
Your day will start with the visit of Topkapi Palace. It was once the political centre of the Ottoman Empire and the royal residence of the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years.
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, so when Topkapi Palace is closed, Dolmabahce Palace will be visited. Showing an impressive architecture, Dolmabahce Palace is the final residence of the Ottoman Sultans and their families.
After this morning tour, you will enjoy lunch at a nearby local restaurant.
Not far away, in the afternoon, you will also visit the dramatic and beautiful Underground Cistern, built in the 6th century AD under Justinian I, as a secure water reservoir for the city. Even today, it is one of Istanbul’s most unusual tourist attractions!
Then you will taste the Turkish delicacies like baklava and coffee before being transferred to the pier of Istanbul to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Formerly home to Ottoman sultans, The Ciragan Palace Kempinski is a luxury hotel sits right on the shore of the Bosphorus, the scenic strait that separates Europe from Asia Minor.
The property includes two grand buildings: a restored 19th century Ottoman palace reserved for special suites and banquet facilities, and a modern annex housing most of the rooms, suites and restaurants. Situated right on the water, the garden has the grandest open area, stretching along nearly a mile of seafront.
The Istanbul hotel’s old-style interior architecture blends the two structures. The grandeur of the historic palace continues into the modern building with antique furniture, abundant velvet and satin upholstery, wooden panelling, ornate rugs and textiles and marble detailing.
This 5-star hotel features a heated outdoor infinity pool with views of the Bosphorus. It has a spa and wellness centre.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Standard Park room at Ciragan Palace Kempinski 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (1 mineral water +1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 local glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner on day 1.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- Turkey’s unit is the Turkish Lira.
- Underground Cistern: this place is not suitable for people suffering from claustrophobia.
- When Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, Dolmabahce Palace will be visited.
- This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- During religious festivals and public holidays, the Spice Bazaar and the Grand Bazaar will be closed. Museum hours are also subject to change.
- The Topkapi Palace visit does not include access to the Harem.
- Women must cover their heads when visiting religious sites, we recommend to bring a scarf in particular to visit the relics room of Topkapi Palace.
- This program is done mostly on foot and involves some stairs. We advise you to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Contact of your hotel:
The Ciragan Palace Kempinski
Yildiz Mh., Ciragan Cd. No: 32
34349 Besiktas – Istanbul
Turkey
Telephone number: +90 212 326 46 46
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 : €340
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Charming Alacati
Alacati is located 10 km southeast of Cesme and famous for its excellent olive oil and windsurfing weather conditions.
You will depart the port by coach for a scenic drive to Alacati Bay. A photo stop is planned en route.
The town of Alacati has a rich history mostly due to its Greek past dating back to the 17th century. The Greek population was forced to leave in 1914, this region was then a land of agriculture but also a significant military zone with its strategic position. Alacati is now a popular holiday destination for the well-to-do of Izmir who have a country houses here.
The first thing you will see when you arrive in Alacati is its impressive windmills. You will stroll with your guide through the cobblestone streets and admire the beautifully restored stone houses enjoying the Bohemian atmosphere of the town. You will visit the Church Aios Constantinos built in 1874 and later converted to a mosque.
Enjoy a refreshment with cookies cooked with mastic gum which is made only in this region. Then, you will have free time before returning to your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking in cobblestones street. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered).
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover Cesme
Cesme is located at the very end of the peninsula bearing its name. The region was called Cesme because of the abundance of spring waters in and around the town, and because of the icy water flowing from its fountains. Cesme means “fountain” in Turkish.
Now a resort town well-known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear water, Cesme’richness also comes from its cultural heritage. After a short coach drive, you will start a guided walking tour of the Old Town. During your walk, you will discover its central square, its lively streets occupied by many shops, its historic houses, and of course its fountains.
You will visit the Church of Agios Haralambos built in 1832. The church that was built as a place of worship for Greeks and all Orthodox. It was transformed into an art gallery after is restoration.
We will then walk to the Castle that was commissioned by Sultan Beyazid II in 1502 to defend the coast against pirates. This citadel offers an exceptional view of the port and the bay. It houses a small museum on the history of the region and the naval Battle of Chesma which took place in the bay of Cesme in the 18th century.
At the end of the tour we will walk back to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 1 ½ hours of walking on uneven surfaces and involves climbing many steps inside the Castle. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment stop is included on your tour.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ephesus & the house of Mary
From the pier, you will embark your coach for a 30-minute drive through a picturesque winding road lined with pine trees to reach the House of Virgin Mary, a protected pilgrimage site.
Clinging to the side of Bulbul Mountain outside of Ephesus, this house is believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary. According to the Vatican, Mary came here towards the end of her life in the company of St. John around 40 AD. Nowadays, every year, Christians and Muslims (who honour “Meryemana” as the mother of a great Prophet), make religious pilgrimages to the site. Below the house you will find a fountain, where a sacred spring feeds three fonts, each bestowing a unique blessing upon visitors.
From the house of the Virgin Mary, you will continue on to nearby Ephesus. Originally dedicated to Cybele, the goddess of fertility, during the prehistoric times, the city was claimed by the Ionians for Artemis and later to Diana by the Romans.
Ephesus is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman sites of the ancient world in the whole Mediterranean. Excavated since 1869, most of the main streets and public buildings have been unearthed and opened for visitors. Everything is here: town hall, dwellings, shops and even public toilets. A town of white marble dazzling in the sunshine, Ephesus is like a stone history book recounting the story of what daily life must have been like in the time of the Greeks and Romans.
During your tour, you will discover the Roman Ephesus. Most of the monuments were built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Due to its location, the city was developed into two sections: the upper part of the city was the administrative sector with the town hall, a civil basilica and the Odeon aligned on the north side of the State Agora. The lower section facing the port houses religious, commercial and cultural buildings, such as the famous Celsius Library, Roman Villas, commercial agora and its theatre, which accommodated up to 24,000 spectators, and the stadium.
Residences of the town’s nobility are grouped on the slopes of Mount Pion and Mount Coressos on either side of Couretes Street, which links the town’s two districts. The site is also famous for its Hercules Gate, the ancient Scholastikia baths, the Marble Street and Hadrian’s temple.
- This tour involves two and half hours of walking on uneven ground with some steps. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €50
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ephesus & Roman Villas
From the pier, you will embark your coach for a 30-minute drive to the Ephesus site, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean basin.
Originally dedicated to Cybele, the goddess of fertility, during the prehistoric times, the city was claimed by the Ionians for Artemis and later to Diana by the Romans. Ephesus is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman sites of the ancient world in the whole Mediterranean. Excavated since 1869, most of the main streets and public buildings have been unearthed and opened for visitors. Everything is here: town hall, dwellings, shops and even public toilets. A town of white marble dazzling in the sunshine, Ephesus is like a stone history book recounting the story of what daily life must have been like in the time of the Greeks and Romans.
During your tour, you will discover the Roman Ephesus. Most of the monuments were built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Due to its location, the city was developed into two sections: the upper part of the city was the administrative sector with the town hall, a civil basilica and the Odeon aligned on the north side of the State Agora. The lower section facing the port houses religious, commercial and cultural buildings, such as the famous Celsius Library, Roman Villas, commercial agora and its theatre, which accommodated up to 24,000 spectators, and the stadium.
You will start your tour at the upper gate of Ephesus, which is also known as the Magnesium Gate. Your guide will lead you on a leisurely downhill walking tour through Ephesus’ marble streets, passing and pointing out all the historically important buildings on the way.
You will move on to the recently excavated Terrace Houses complex which are also known as the houses of the rich Ephesians. Located on the northern slope of Bulbul Mountain next to Curetes Street and opposite the Temple of Hadrian, these houses were built in the peristyle form with a courtyard surrounded by Ionic colonnades. They are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes. Built in the period of Augustus, they were inhabited until the 7th century AD according to evidence from excavations.
Then, you will visit one of the most impressive sites of Ephesus, the Library of Celsus. Built in 135 BC by a son in homage to his father, this library is finely decorated with columns and sculptures.
Finally, after just a short walk away, you will join the Grand theatre where St Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to give up their worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith.
- This tour involves two and a half hours of walking on uneven ground with steps. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The visit of the Roman Villas will be guided by the archaeologist who leads the excavations. This tour is limited to 40 participants.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Bodrum Castle & Mausoleum
You will be taken to Bodrum’s old town by mini-bus. Here you will have an opportunity to explore this fascinating ancient fortress.
The Castle of St. Peter was built by the Knights of Rhodes between 1415 and 1513 in honour of the saint. On this occasion they used stone and marble from the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, for its construction. The highest point is the French Tower which rises to 47.5 metres (155 ft) above sea-level. There are four other towers each reflecting the architectural style of the nations who built them: the English Tower, the Spanish Tower, the German Tower and the Italian Tower. As they had such a powerful fleet, the Knights built a smallish wall looking out to sea and a much thicker, more fortified one facing the mainland. When the Ottomans took over the castle in 1523, they converted the chapel into a mosque and much later added a Hammam. After 1895 the castle was turned into a prison, and then in 1960 it became a museum housing numerous undersea archaeological discoveries. The terrace garden features an unusual collection of typical Mediterranean plants, some of which are steeped in the mythology of the ancient Greeks and Romans. For example, myrtle is the plant of love and Aphrodite.
After this visit you will be taken to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus (ancient Bodrum). The Mausoleum was built as a tomb for the Carian King Mausolus between 353 and 350 BC, and was conceived by his wife and sister Artemisia II of Caria. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the tomb is today an open air museum, and they believe that it was originally around 55 metres (180 ft) in height. The structure and the elaborate reliefs which adorn the tomb were the work of Greek architects and the most talented sculptors of that period. The tomb survived intact for over 1,500 years until it was almost totally destroyed by an earthquake. The Knights of Rhodes did further damage when they removed any usable materials to build the Castle of Saint Peter in the 15th century.
- As this visit is entirely on foot over uneven terrain with many steps inside the castle, we advise you to wear comfortable shoes and to protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover Bodrum bay by local boat
From the pier, a 5-minute walk will take you to the cruise terminal to board a traditional Turkish boat.
Throughout its history, Bodrum has played an important role in maritime trade and shipping. In the olden days, numerous boatyards lined the coves around the bay, and the schooners built here were used by fishermen and sponge divers. However, because they were fast and easy to manoeuvre against pirates, they were soon being exported to carry merchandise throughout the Mediterranean, and as far as the Indian Ocean and French West Indies. Their shape evolved depending on the seas in which they were sailing, so for example in the Black Sea their hulls are much deeper to accommodate more goods. In Bodrum on the other hand, the hull has remained relatively shallow and close to the water to make it easier to fish. Every year the town hosts a unique event called the Bodrum Cup, an international regatta which attracts amateurs and professionals alike. The aim is to encourage and develop the use of these traditional sailing boats in the heart of the Gokova Gulf.
Comfortably installed under awnings to protect you from the sun, you will sail across Bodrum Bay to an anchorage where you can revel in the peace and quiet and enjoy a swim in the turquoise blue waters of the Aegean Sea. One refreshment will be served on board.
After a last swimming stop, you will return to the pier and stroll back to your ship.
- This tour involves easy walking to the wooden boat on a flat ground. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Even if a small cabin is available for changing, we recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes. A soft drink is included on your tour.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Photo safari in Patmos
This tour, covering the south side of the island, not only gives you the opportunity of discovering hidden places but also an opportunity to photograph the most amazing land and seascapes along.
From the pier, board your minibus to the old village of Chora, the island’s capital and a photographer’s paradise! Your first experience is a panoramic view right over the island and over the 11th century monastery built like a fort, standing with proud dominance. You will be guided through Chora’s labyrinth of winding cobbled streets and maze of arched alleyways. The settlement of white-washed houses dating from 16th century, reflects the light casting shadows and creating geometric patterns. The alleys, arches and doorways display a harmonious balance revealing subtle architectural details which, through your lens, can become exciting atmospheric images trapped in time.
You will continue with a short drive to the top of Profit Illias Mountain, the highest point of the island - 880 feet (269 m) above sea level.
Continue to Diakofti stopping off to photograph the view of the mystical rock of Petra and then go to a boatyard. Here you will have the opportunity to photograph the local islanders at work and the streamline shapes of vessels in dry dock.
After a local refreshment, and your camera full of great images, you will return to Skala port.
- This tour involves approximately 1.2 miles (2 km) of walking over uneven surfaces, narrow and cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. You will use your own camera on this tour. A supplement of €25 per person will be applied if there are less than 10 participants. This tour is conducted by an English-speaking guide. No translation will be provided. This tour is limited to 18 participants. The observation of the workers and vessels in dry dock is not guaranteed. The guide is not a photograph and do not give any information regarding the use of the camera.
Total : €70
According to availability, price per passenger.
Saint John Monastery & Apocalypse Cave
From the pier, board your coach for a drive to the Saint John Monastery. Overlooking Skala port and the island’s southern region, this medieval monastery looks more like a fortress than a house of prayer. It was built to repel attacks by pirates.
In the year 95 AD, Saint John the Evangelist was banished from Ephesus and exiled to Patmos, which in the days of the Roman Empire was where those who were exiled were sent.
In 1088, the Byzantine Emperor Alexios Komnenos authorised Saint Christodoulos, an abbot from Asia Minor, to erect a monastery in memory of Saint John. The whole island was yielded to the monastery. The adjoining Theotokos Chapel has frescoes dating back to the 12th century. Other Byzantine treasures are found in the monastery. Today this holy place is a veritable museum of Byzantine art thanks to the countless frescoes, icons, holy objects and manuscripts contained within its walls.
After visiting the monastery, a short drive away, will take you to the Apocalypse Cave where the final chapter of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle. The Book of Revelation prophecy came to him through a symbolic vision and was written in Greek. This cave was the house of the evangelist and now is surrounded by a monastery and school of theology. You can see the resting place outlined in beaten silver where St John laid his head every night. To the right the rock is shaped like a pulpit and is where the disciple, Prochoros, wrote the revelation as dictated by John.
Finally, you will re-board your coach for the drive back to the pier.
- This excursion is not suitable for people who have difficulty walking. The coach will drop you near the old town, and access to the monastery is on foot via cobblestone streets. Altogether you will have to go up and down about 100 steps. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. It is not permitted to take photos inside the chapel or the cave.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
Paros by boat & swimming
From the pier, board your motorboat and start your cruise around Antiparos Island.
Antiparos is a small and quiet island which houses only one village built around the Venetian fort, example of fortification of the 15th century. Hosting many sandy beaches, this island became famous the last couple of years, as many Hollywood actors and singers like Tom Hanks, Angelina Jolie and Madonna have their own properties.
During your boat trip, you will see many beaches where you will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Your first stop will be a sandy beach with its turquoise waters, where you will enjoy time for swimming and snorkeling. Your second stop will be at anchorage in a cove, from where you can go explore a cave while snorkelling.
After enjoying a final swim in crystal clear waters, you will have some refreshment.
Finally, you will return to the port of Alyki, where your coach will be waiting for you to get back to your ship.
- This tour involves some walking and some steps. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Passengers wishing to participate in this excursion must be able to embark and disembark without assistance. The boat is roof covered. The boat is equipped with toilets, ladders, fresh water shower and sunbeds. As the boat cannot go directly to the beaches, you will reach the beaches by swimming. Masks and snorkel are provided onboard. This tour is limited to 30 participants.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Parikia & Naoussa
From the pier, board your coach for a 10-minute drive to the famous Byzantine Church of Ekatontapyliani. Also named the “Lady of the hundred doors”, this church is one of the greatest early Christian monuments in Greece. The name was a creation of the 17th century scholars who wanted to compare the splendour of the church to that of the Temple of Hundred Doors (Ekatonpylon) in ancient Thebes of Egypt.
Following your visit, you will board your coach for a panoramic drive to the traditional village of Lefkes.
Lefkes is the most mountainous village of Paros and the most verdurous one. It was the first capital of Paros. The village is located under a pineforest on the hill. Follow your guide on a walking tour through its narrow streets with white walls. See the old wash-houses that are still used by some housewives, the House of Literature, the picturesque Ramnos, a street with taverns and other stores and the wonderful view: the sea and Naxos in the background. The houses are built amphitheatrical. The first residents were immigrants that came from Crete and Naoussa and locals who chose to build their village on the mountain, in order to be protected from the pirates. The town hall was built with the famous marble of Paros.
Once leaving Lefkes, you will head for the picturesque village of Naoussa. The port of Naoussa is protected by a separate fortification, the Venetian Castle. The fortification was built in the 15th century by the dynasty of Sommaripas and emerges from the sea behind the small harbour with the traditional fish boats. Today, although half sunk, the castle offers a very impressive sight worth seeing.
Before rejoining your ship, you will have some free time to stroll around its narrow streets, little squares and traditional whitewashed houses.
- This tour involves approximately 2 hours of moderate walking mainly on flat ground, a few steps are to be expected at the Church of Ekatontapyliani. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Total : €60
According to availability, price per passenger.
History of Hydra
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, port and waterfront unspoiled by motorised vehicles. This island offers a rugged charm and many scenes to discover.
From the pier, follow your guide on a walking exploration through the island's historical landmarks. Your first stop will be the Hydra Museum - Historical Archives where you may admire 19th century paintings of considerable artistic value as well as rich documental and photographic material detailing the long maritime tradition and history of the island.
Continuing your walk around the port, you will visit the Church of the Dormitian, which houses icons, chandeliers and other offerings from the wealthy seafarers of the island. It is even said one of the chandeliers was stolen from Louis XIV and given to the church.
Enjoy a coffee or a refreshment together with Hydra's local sweet " amygdaloto" at a promenade local coffee shop.
Next, take the road uphill to reach Koundouriotis Mansion, one of the finest examples of the traditional 18th and 19th century architecture of Hydra. Built in 1780 by the ship owner Lazaros Koundouriotis, it now houses various items from the National Historical Museum of Athens, such as traditional costumes, jewellery, fine embroideries, pottery and wood-carvings.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Hydra's little alleys and stone houses before your return to the port.
- This tour is entirely on foot, walking over uneven ground, cobble stone streets and steps (70-80 steps). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. The refreshment is included on your tour.
Total : €45
According to availability, price per passenger.
DIRECT TRANSFER FROM ISTANBUL PORT TO ISTANBUL AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Istanbul
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer 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 and 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
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.