Greek Islands, Sicily & Malta: Syracuse and Valletta
Ancient cities of the Mediterranean
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Athens (Lavrion) → Valletta
Seven nights take Le Dumont d'Urville as a Mediterranean crossing from Athens via the Ionian Sea to Malta. Ancient cities, Venetian fortresses and baroque harbour stages follow one another, with calls between the Peloponnese, Corfu and Sicily. Marina and Zodiacs open small coves, the Blue Eye underwater lounge gives the voyage a second, underwater stage. 184 guests, premium all-inclusive, a quiet late-season run without crowds.
Route highlights
- Athens (Lavrion): Acropolis and Parthenon as the opening of the crossing.
- Nafplio: The first capital of independent Greece, beneath the Venetian Palamidi fortress.
- Monemvasia: A medieval fortress town on a rock, hidden from the sea.
- Gythion: A quiet harbour at the entrance to the Mani, gateway to the southernmost tip of mainland Greece.
- Corfu: UNESCO old town with Venetian fortresses and French arcades.
- Syracuse: The island of Ortygia with baroque squares and ancient traces of the once mighty Greek colony.
- Valletta: Malta's UNESCO capital with fortress rings and baroque palaces of the Knights of St John.
The Route
Athens (Lavrion)
7 nights
Valletta
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Athen · Embarkation
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Nafplio
Nafplio was the first capital of independent Greece from 1827 to 1834, and remains one of the country's most elegant towns. Above the old quarter stands the Venetian fortress of Palamidi, reached by a famous flight of steps, while out in the harbour the little island castle of Bourtzi lies at anchor like a ship of stone. The neoclassical lanes, bright with bougainvillea and lined with cafés, seem to breathe history. Two World Heritage Sites lie close by: the ancient theatre of Epidaurus, celebrated for its perfect acoustics, and the citadel of Mycenae with its Lion Gate.
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Monemvasia
Monemvasia is a Byzantine rock-fortress town linked to the mainland by a single causeway. The medieval lower town with its vaulted lanes, Orthodox churches and views over the Ionian Sea is one of the best-preserved medieval sites in Greece.
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Gythio
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Korfu
Corfu blends Greek, Italian, French and English influences. The Old Town of Kérkyra (UNESCO) feels like Venice, the Achilleion palace of Empress Sisi stands in the hills, and the beaches of Palaiokastritsa are among the loveliest of the Ionian Islands.
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Gallipoli
Gallipoli (Italian for "beautiful city") on Apulia's Salentino coast juts out on a rocky island into the sea. Baroque houses, the bustle of the fresh fish market and the surrounding beaches make Gallipoli the southernmost gem of Italy.
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Syrakus, Sizilien
In antiquity, Syracuse was one of the most powerful cities in the Mediterranean and the home of Archimedes. Its centre on the island of Ortygia - a cathedral built on Greek temple foundations, baroque squares and the Arethusa Fountain - has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005.
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Valletta · Disembarkation
Le Dumont d'Urville
Le Dumont d'Urville has sailed since 2019 as the fourth Explorer ship. 184 guests, Blue Eye Lounge, Zodiac fleet. Named after the explorer who claimed Adélie Land for France in 1840.
In the eastern Mediterranean, Le Dumont d'Urville links Greek islands with the Turkish coast - a route through 3,000 years of maritime history.
The Ship
Cabins
Owner's Suite
The most exclusive suite on board, located on Deck 6. Separate bedroom, balneo bathtub, panoramic views, butler service and personalised attention from the crew.
Cabin layout
Prestige Suite with Balcony
Elegant suites on Decks 5 and 6. Separate living and sleeping areas, two dressing rooms, generous balcony. Round-the-clock butler service.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Suite with Balcony
Spacious suites on Deck 6 with a separate bathtub and shower, sitting area and a private balcony. Butler service included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin
Outside cabin with a large panoramic window on Deck 3. Ideal for solo travellers or couples. All on-board amenities included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin with Balcony
Comfortable outside cabins on Decks 3 and 4 with a private balcony. Convertible twin or double beds, shower bathroom.
Cabin layout
Prestige Cabin with Balcony
The most popular category: premium cabins on Decks 4-6 with a private balcony, sitting area and convertible beds. Unobstructed views of the destination.
Cabin layout
Deck plan · Le Dumont d'Urville
Cabin prices
Prices per person in double cabin (suites: based on double occupancy), all-inclusive. Subject to availability.
| Category | Price p.P. | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Stateroom - 3 | € 5.650 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 4 - 4 | € 5.930 | On request | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 - 5 | € 6.210 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 - 6 | € 6.550 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 3 - 3 | € 10.440 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 4 - 4 | € 10.440 | On request | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 10.440 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 10.440 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 Suite - | € 11.580 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 Suite - | € 11.860 | Available | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 12.420 | Available | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 12.420 | Available | Enquire |
| Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 14.960 | Available | Enquire |
| Owner's Suite - 6 | € 16.560 | Available | Enquire |
Prices as of: 14.08.2026
Standard inclusions of the ship voyage
On board
- Full board in gourmet and À-la-carte restaurants
- Afternoon tea and pastries
- Open bar: water, soft drinks, wines, champagne, spirits, beers, coffee and tea
- Minibar in cabin, regularly refilled
- 24-hour cabin service
- All gratuities for crew and service staff
- Complimentary WiFi onboard (standard usage)
- Butler service (in higher suite categories on select ships)
- Zodiac excursions with experienced guides (on Expedition voyages)
- Expert lectures by scientists, marine biologists and historians
- Water sports equipment: kayaks, stand-up paddling, snorkelling gear (subject to weather and region)
Not included
- Flights
- Travel to/from ship (transfers, pre- or post-programmes)
- Some special shore excursions
- Spa treatments
Frequently asked questions
How do I book this voyage?
Send us a non-binding enquiry via the form on this page. Our team replies personally within 24 hours with availability, cabin options and a tailored offer. No enquiry fee, no upfront payment.
What is included in the price?
The base price per person (twin cabin) includes the cabin in your chosen category, full board, all port fees and the onboard programme. Flights and transfers are quoted separately. 7 nights from EUR 5.390 p.p. With Ponant, selected wines and beverages at meals are included.
How many guests sail on the Le Dumont d'Urville?
A maximum of 184 guests - extraordinarily intimate compared to standard cruise ships. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention throughout the voyage.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes - all itineraries are subject to weather, port availability and the captain's decisions. This is part of the charm of small-ship cruising: flexibility allows for unexpected discoveries.
Are there specials for early bookers or solo travellers?
Yes. Early bookers receive discounts for timely booking. Solo travellers often benefit from a reduced or waived single supplement. Simply mention your preferences in the enquiry.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. As a German tour operator, ivent-sailing provides a travel protection certificate (Reisesicherungsschein) under German law. Your payment is fully insured.
What about flights and transfers?
We arrange flights and transfers on request as part of your personal offer. This allows us to find the best connections for your specific departure date and home airport.
Are there shore excursions?
Yes. All cruise lines offer shore excursions - from guided cultural tours to nature experiences. The concepts vary by fleet. We are happy to provide details on available excursions for your chosen voyage.
What water sports and activities are available?
Depending on the ship and route: snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, diving, and Zodiac landings (on expedition voyages). Many ships have a marina platform for direct access to the water. We will be happy to tell you exactly what is available on your voyage.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
