Study Voyage: Côte d'Azur, Sicily & Malta
French elegance and the spirit of discovery
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Nice (Villefranche) to Valletta
A seven-night voyage from Nice to Valletta, linking the central Mediterranean islands of Elba, Corsica, Sardinia and Sicily in the reverse direction, accompanied by the Smithsonian Journeys programme. The Explorer ship for 184 guests anchors at UNESCO port cities and smaller islands. The marina with 16 Zodiacs, the Blue Eye underwater lounge with hydrophones and premium all-inclusive accompany the voyage.
Route highlights
- Nice (Villefranche): Bay on the Côte d'Azur as the starting port.
- Portoferraio: Main town of Elba, Napoleon's first exile.
- Bonifacio (Corsica): Town on white chalk cliffs at Corsica's southern tip.
- Cagliari (Sardinia): Sardinian capital with the Castello quarter and a Roman amphitheatre.
- Palermo: Sicilian capital with Norman-Arab heritage.
- Taormina: Greek theatre with views of Etna.
- Syracuse: Ortygia with an ancient theatre and a Baroque town.
- Valletta: UNESCO capital of Malta as the final port.
Early booking advantage: Voyages in 2027 fill quickly - premium cabins are often reserved 18-24 months in advance. An early booking enquiry is non-binding and secures your preferred cabin category.
The Route
Nice (Villefranche)
7 nights
Valletta
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Nizza · Embarkation
On the French Riviera on the Mediterranean lies Nice as the largest town of the Côte d'Azur in the Alpes-Maritimes. Its landmark is the Promenade des Anglais along the Baie des Anges, lined by the pastel-coloured Vieux Nice old town, the baroque Sainte-Réparate cathedral and the Castle Hill of Colline du Château with views across the entire bay.
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Portoferraio, Elba
Portoferraio is the capital of Elba and lies in one of the best-protected natural harbours of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Elba is known as Napoleon's place of exile (1814-15), as a hiking island and for its crystal-clear waters along granite shores.
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Bonifacio, Korsika
On white limestone cliffs at the southern tip of Corsica - Bonifacio literally hovers above the sea. The medieval citadel town lies just 12 kilometres from the Sardinian cape; below, boats anchor in the fjord-like harbour bay.
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Cagliari, Sardinien
Cagliari, capital of Sardinia, is crowned by its Pisan citadel overlooking the Molentargius lagoon. Excursions lead into the Gennargentu National Park, to the Nuragic complex of Su Nuraxi (UNESCO World Heritage) and to the white beaches of the Costa del Sud.
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Palermo, Sizilien
Palermo is Sicily's lively capital, with Arab-Norman monuments designated as UNESCO World Heritage. Excursions lead to Monreale (cathedral with 6,400 m² of gold mosaics) or to ancient Agrigento with the Valley of the Temples - one of the most striking Greek ruin sites outside Greece.
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Taormina, Sizilien
Taormina sits on a rocky spur above the Ionian Sea and is regarded as the loveliest spot in Sicily. The Greek-Roman theatre with Mount Etna in the background is one of the most spectacular ancient settings; ships moor at Giardini-Naxos at the foot of the hill.
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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
Climate & best time to sail
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air °C | 15 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 31 | 27 | 23 | 18 | 16 |
| Sea °C | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 18 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 43 | 37 | 25 | 32 | 30 | 15 | 7 | 20 | 52 | 66 | 58 | 52 |
Long-term monthly normals · Reference: Balearic Islands (Palma)
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 Mediterranean, Le Dumont d'Urville combines French cuisine with the cultural ports of Provence, Corsica and Italy.
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 | € 6.830 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 4 - 4 | € 7.530 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 - 5 | € 7.890 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 - 6 | € 8.310 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 3 - 3 | € 11.410 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 4 - 4 | € 11.410 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 11.410 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 11.410 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 Suite - | € 15.290 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 Suite - | € 16.070 | Available | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 16.840 | Available | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 16.840 | Available | Enquire |
| Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 18.460 | Available | Enquire |
| Owner's Suite - 6 | € 25.600 | Available | Enquire |
Prices as of: 14.08.2026
Standard inclusions of the ship voyage
On board
- Schiffsreise in der gewählten Kabinenkategorie
- Vollpension an Bord: Frühstücksbuffet, französische Brasserie-Küche zum Mittagessen, mehrgängiges Abendessen
- Große Auswahl an Getränken in Markenqualität (Mineralwasser, Softdrinks, Wein, Bier, Champagner, Kaffee, Tee, ausgewählte Spirituosen)
- Inhalt der Minibar
- 24-Stunden-Roomservice
- Unbegrenzter WiFi-Zugang an Bord
- Ein Landausflug pro Person und Anlaufhafen
- Vorträge und Begleitung der Naturforscher und Lektoren an Bord
- Abendunterhaltung, Vorträge und Shows
- Zugang zu Fitnessbereich und Sauna
- Nicht-motorisierte Wassersport-Aktivitäten (Kajak, Stand-up-Paddle)
- Bei Expeditionsreisen: Zodiac-Anlandungen und Ausfahrten
- Hafen- und Sicherheitsgebühren
Not included
- An- und Abreise zum Schiff (Flüge, Bahn)
- Flughafentransfers
- Reiseversicherung
- Trinkgelder für Crew (übliche Empfehlung 8 bis 10 Euro pro Person und Tag)
- Premium-Spirituosen und ausgewählte Edel-Weine
- Zusätzliche, optionale Landausflüge
- Spa- und Wellness-Anwendungen
- Persönliche Ausgaben (Wäscheservice, Boutique)
- Tauchgänge
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 6.570 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.
When is the best time to sail this voyage?
The best time to sail this route is May to October.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
