The Rivieras; A Mediterranean Masterpiece

12 nights - 30 Jun 2026

Douglas Mawson | Mediterranean

CALL NOW

View prices as:

PER PERSON TOTAL PRICE

Select Package

Select Guest

Select Cabins

Aurora Stateroom Twin Share

CALL CALL

Balcony Stateroom Category C

CALL CALL

Balcony Stateroom Category B

CALL CALL

Junior Suite

CALL CALL

Select Cabins

Aurora Stateroom Twin Share

~~WAS £10979pp~~ From £8859PP

Balcony Stateroom Category C

~~WAS £11879pp~~ From £9579PP

Balcony Stateroom Category B

~~WAS £12479pp~~ From £10059PP

Junior Suite

~~WAS £18179pp~~ From £14619PP

Select Cabins

Aurora Stateroom Twin Share

CALL CALL

Balcony Stateroom Category C

From £7946

Balcony Stateroom Category B

From £8396

Junior Suite

From £13346

Select Cabins

Aurora Stateroom Twin Share

CALL CALL

Balcony Stateroom Category C

CALL CALL

Balcony Stateroom Category B

CALL CALL

Junior Suite

CALL CALL

Want to add a hotel stay or change your flights?

Just call our team of cruise specialists to help build your dream cruise holiday today!

call for free on 0808 202 6105

let us contact you

request a quote

Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by AE Expeditions under ATOL number 11462

Please click here to check the essential travel requirements before booking this cruise.

Included with Cruise & Fly -

Flights
Airport arrival and departure transfers to/from our group hotel on the first day and final day of your voyage package One night’s hotel accommodation, including breakfast, in Barcelona on Day 1Two night’s hotel accommodation, including breakfast, in Rome on Days 11 and 12 All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage Meals listed as included during shore excursions and land portions of the package
Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages
One shore excursion per person per port of call and city stay package
Enrichment experiences as listed, including Welcome and Farewell Events Onboard Wi-Fi Headsets are available for use during our ‘Your Choice’ experiences when needed

Itinerary

List Timeline

Barcelona

Bienvenido a España. On arrival at Barcelona Airport make your way to the Arrivals Hall to meet our representative, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team who will provide you with useful information regarding... Read More

Day 1

30 June 2026

Barcelona

More Info

Day 2

01 July 2026

Barcelona

More Info

Day 3

02 July 2026

Port-Vendres

More Info

Day 4

03 July 2026

Marseille

More Info

Day 5

04 July 2026

Nice

More Info

Day 6

05 July 2026

La Spezia

More Info

Day 7

06 July 2026

Livorno

More Info

Day 8

07 July 2026

Portoferraio

More Info

Day 9

08 July 2026

Bastia

More Info

Day 10

09 July 2026

Bonifacio, Corsica

More Info

Day 11

10 July 2026

Civitavecchia

More Info

Day 12

11 July 2026

Rome

More Info

Day 13

12 July 2026

Rome

More Info

Barcelona

Port-Vendres

Marseille

Nice

La Spezia

The port of La Spezia is our base today for one of the region’s favourite highlights. Today’s experience takes us to the Villages of the Cinque Terre. Literally translated as ‘the five lands’, these villages traverse a series of coastal ravines and rugged ridges along a nine-mile st... Read More

Livorno

Portoferraio

Bastia

Bonifacio, Corsica

Civitavecchia

Rome

*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

30 June 2026

Barcelona

01 July 2026

Barcelona

Socially, culturally and industrially, Barcelona shines as a beacon of difference in Spain. Proudly Catalonian first and Spanish second, its people are free-spirited, liberal thinkers with a passion for their freedom. In the last 30 years, Barcelonans have sculpted their city into one of Europe’s most venerated travel destinations. Its boulevard-style main street, Las Ramblas, is the name on every traveller’s lips, and Barcelona’s vibrant is as sought after as it was during the Spanish Empire’s monarchal peak. A palatial stronghold of the 15th century power couple, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, Barcelona greeted a jubilant Christopher Columbus upon his return to Spain and the rest as they say, is history. The city has never looked back. Our locally guided tour this morning celebrates the artists and authors who have long revered Barcelona as a masterpiece for centuries. Famed for its vibrant arts scene, Barcelona shows off its style with works scattered along its plazas and throughout its parks. Miró, Picasso, Vidal, and Montaner all called Barcelona home. But it is the name Antoni Gaudi, which attracts 21st century art aficionados worldwide. We start our day in Barcelona at his masterpiece of modernist architecture – La Sagrada Familia. We explore its intricate interior and exterior with our specialist guide and learn about the history and symbolism of this ongoing construction project, before descending to Plaza de España, Gran Via and the surrounding streets. Next is the elegant avenue of Paseo de Gracia, home to Barcelona’s most inspired modernist architecture. Having familiarised yourself with the city, your afternoon is free to explore Barcelona’s many attractions. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, stroll along Las Ramblas, visit one of the city’s renowned galleries, or shop to your heart’s content. Late afternoon, we transfer to the Douglas Mawson. This evening, we enjoy a Welcome Dinner onboard where we meet our Aurora Expeditions Team and crew.

02 July 2026

Port-Vendres

The intimate village of Port-Vendres provides access to inland treasures, giving us the opportunity to walk the streets of surrealist-style Figueres, wander the lanes of Collioure, or scale the walls, in true Robin Hood style, of Hollywood’s favourite movie set, the fortified town of Carcassonne. Well, perhaps stand in the shade of its turrets. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Collioure, Perpignan and the Rigaud Art MuseumOur morning is filled with art as we visit Perpignan and the Fauvist haven of Collioure. Perpignan, with its Mediterranean climate and year-round sunshine, is the vibrant capital of the region, known as ‘La Catalane’ for its blend of French and Spanish cultures. In 1963, Salvador Dali famously declared Perpignan station the “centre of the world” upon his arrival. Today, we visit the recently renovated Rigaud Museum, named after the Catalan artist who painted at the court of King Louis XIV. Housed in the combined Hôtel de Mailly and Hôtel de Lazerme, the museum boasts 4,300 square metres of exhibition space showcasing a diverse collection of Gothic, baroque, and 20th-century art. Enjoy these masterpieces in a serene setting, free from the crowds that often flock to the galleries in larger cities. A half-hour drive from Perpignan brings you to Collioure, a former pirate town and a treasure trove of maritime and medieval wealth. This Catalonian port, with its clear blue sky, colourful buildings, historic heritage and picturesque markets, has long attracted great artists like Matisse, Signac, Derain, and Picasso. The Musée d’Art Moderne preserves the town’s rich artistic history, highlighting the Fauvism movement that began here in the 20th century. Wander the Fauvism trail through cobblestoned alleys to see 20 reproductions of works by Matisse and Derain. For contemporary art enthusiasts, the Maison du Fauvisme offers a closer look at stunning pieces. Collioure is a must for art lovers and history buffs alike. For those wishing to linger longer, a popular coastal walk connects Collioure and Port-Vendres, offering a scenic three-kilometre walk, leading you back to where your ship awaits. Port-Vendres, offering a scenic two-mile walk, or little train journey, leading you back to where your ship awaits.Option 2 – Full-day experience: The Prince of Walled Cities – CarcassonneSurrounded by turreted walls and a deep moat, Carcassonne has attracted moviemakers since 1908, after French inventors the Lumiere brothers first produced short films using their newly developed motion-picture camera and projector, between 1895 and 1905. The setting for Charles Perrault’s classic tale of Puss in Boots, Carcassonne’s fortified walls offered a fairy tale ambience. Of course, life here was nothing like the ‘men in tights’ Robin Hood movie. The reality of flaming arrows, grapnels, catapulted stones and towers full of French soldiers shattering the peace as the town braced itself for invasion, provides modern-day visitors with a truer tale of life in the Middle Ages. Carcassonne is also a port on one of the world’s most successful engineering endeavours, the Canal du Midi. Running 240 kilometres from Toulouse to the coast, the canal opened the Mediterranean to barge traffic from the Atlantic, an important economic miracle at the time.

03 July 2026

Marseille

The old port of Marseille grants us access to the inspirational fields, streetside cafes and hilltop villages of Provence. The boots of Roman engineers, and the shoes of many an artist, have trodden its soils, but none as famous as the clogs of van Gogh and the slip-ons of Picasso. We spend a day in their shoes with a palette of experiences to choose from. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: An Artistes Impression of Aix-en-Provence‘Aix’, as it is simply known to its inhabitants, abounds with leafy boulevards, publics squares and grand avenues – a sign of its wealth and status. Paul Cézanne, who died in 1906, is considered to be one of the most influential artists of the 19th century and remains the favourite son of Aix. This morning, we are introduced to the world of the artist, when we visit the Terrain des Peintres. Cézanne often painted here in the later part of his life. As a centennial celebration of his work, these terraced gardens were converted into an open-air museum featuring reproductions of the artwork painted by the man himself at this very spot. Returning to the centre of Aix, we walk the popular pedestrian-only avenue of Cours Mirabeau. A verdant tunnel of foliage, this classic boulevard showcases the aristocratic facades of the city’s opulent hotels and Belle Époque villas with their wrought iron balconies and intricately carved doorways inviting visitors to stop and admire. There’s time to explore Aix further before we return to Marseille and reboard for lunch. Option 2 – Morning experience: Masterpieces of MarseilleEmbark on a captivating journey through Marseille, culminating in a visit to the magnificent Palais Longchamp, a local landmark that blends history, art and architecture in a much-colonnaded splendour. The Palais Longchamp was originally constructed to address a severe water shortage caused by a cholera epidemic in the 19th century, symbolising the city’s resilience and innovation. At the heart of the Palais stands the grand central fountain by sculptor Pierre-Jules Cavelier, celebrating the arrival of water from the Durance River. This dramatic centerpiece is framed by elegant colonnades and adorned with intricate sculptures by Antoine-Louis Bayre. Within the Palais, the Museum of Fine Arts showcases an impressive collection of 17th- and 18th-century paintings, drawings and sculptures, reflecting Marseille’s rich artistic heritage. Set amid a beautifully landscaped park, the Palais Longchamp remains one of Marseille’s most cherished and must-see attractions. Option 3 – Full-day experience: Van Gogh’s Arles and Carrières de LumièresThe most prolific ancient Roman architecture of Provence can be found in Arles. We explore its Roman amphitheatre, the forum square and Roman circus, before leaping forward a few centuries to meet the town’s most tortured soul. Treading the quaint cobbled streets of Arles, one can only wonder what made Vincent van Gogh so miserable. Inspired by the Provençal light, van Gogh produced over 300 paintings during his 15 months here. Many of his paintings depict classic sights dotted around town, which we recognise as we follow in his footsteps while the city bares its soul through his paintings. Lunch is enjoyed at a typical Provençal bistro en route to the spectacle that is Carrières de Lumières. Literally translated as the Quarry of Light, this abandoned quarry hosts a tribute to the numerous artists who once called this region home. A visual display of world-famous paintings envelops us in the world of art, accompanied by musical overtures which match the era.

04 July 2026

Nice

The yacht-filled harbour of Nice plays host to the Douglas Mawson today, granting us a millionaire's access to the French Riviera. To most travellers this name depicts the shoreline connecting Antibes to Nice. Its wide Promenade des Anglais, named after the English upper class who placed Nice at the top of their Grand Tour bucket list, follows the Mediterranean coast past an array of Belle Epoque hotels, Art Deco apartments and sun umbrellaed beaches. At the limit of the ruling House of Savoy both physically and politically, the people of the riviera voted to join France in the 1860s rather than the new Kingdom of Italy, making this region a unique blend of both cultures. The angle of light, relaxed lifestyle and extravagant parties attracted as many artists and members of the literary alumni in the 20th century as it had aristocrats the century before. From Monet, Chaplin and Valentino in Antibes to Bonnard at Le Cannet, and Picasso – well just about everywhere – it became the place to be seen for the avant-garde. This pocket of sunshine and decadence still attracts artists, authors and actors, who paint its vistas, write its stories and come to Cannes to be adored.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: A Nice Place to PaintThe Grande Dame of the French Riviera hosts our locally guided walking tour this morning. Throughout Nice’s history, A-listers have flocked to it in abundance – Queen Victoria, the Russian Tsarinas, old money, new money, and entire Hollywood studios. Waiting in the wings to paint them, write about them, design their clothes, swimwear and perfumes, were Europe’s artists, authors and designers. We search for Queen Victoria’s favourite chocolate shop, stroll the streets of Nice’s old town, and soak up the ambience that is the Riviera’s favourite city. Our visit includes one of Nice’s top galleries. Considered one of Judaism’s greatest artists, Marc Chagall escaped Vichy France thanks to a US journalist, Varian Fry, and the organisation that would become the International Rescue Committee. After the war he returned with his artwork, some of which is displayed in his museum in Nice.Option 2 – Morning experience: The Principality of Monaco and Prince Albert’s collectionFrom the days of its early Genoese rulers, the ever-expanding Principality of Monaco has been a political curiosity on the map of southern Europe. Ruled as a business rather than a country by the Grimaldi family, this exclusive enclave offers an insight into the lives of the ‘filthy rich’. Ferraris replace Fiats, designer dogs are carried in handbags and champagne flows like water, all thanks to an economy, which has earned the respect of, rather than robbed from, the rich. Smaller than New York’s Central Park, Monaco’s 500-acre size, boasts the second highest GDP per capita in the world. Although the 9,500 native Monégasque are banned by law from gambling, it is the nation’s foreign-born citizens with their bulging bank accounts, multi-million-euro apartments and high-roller habits who boost the principality’s income, with over 30 per cent of its residents listed as millionaires.Our guided walking tour introduces us to this unique place, culminating with a visit to Prince Albert’s own car museum. Following in the footsteps of Grace Kelly at the superyacht-filled marina, we recall how she met Prince Rainier during a visit to Monaco suggested by a friend while filming To Catch a Thief. Within a year, they were wed, and Grace Kelly became a princess, with 140 official titles. Her tragic passing left Monaco in mourning, with her face, name and favourite things found throughout the principality, reminding us of her enduring legacy. Our tour includes the palatial precinct known locally as ‘The Rock’, and the Cathedral (also known as Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate), where Princess Grace and Prince Rainier were married and now rest. Moving to the waterfront, our journey takes a hairpin bend. From a wartime Ford Jeep to Prince Albert’s favourite Bugatti, the Prince’s private collection is packed with rare vehicles, Formula 1 winners and numerous Ferraris, Lamborghinis and the odd Rolls-Royce. Appealing to car aficionados and non-drivers alike, this decadent display is set to impress.Option 3 – Full-day experience: Picasso and Saint-Paul de VencePablo Picasso, as vibrant, colourful and surreal as his works, is one of the most captivating figures in art history. Though Spanish by birth, his heart found a home on the French Riviera and its enchanting hinterland. The two months Picasso spent at Antibes’ Castle Grimaldi marked one of his most prolific periods, where the blend of swimming, painting and socialising became a daily rhythm. Amid the post-war exuberance, Picasso thrived in the Riviera’s lively atmosphere, surrounded by friends, admirers, and a devoted 23-year-old girlfriend, all of whom adored him.Explore Picasso’s masterpieces at Castle Grimaldi, where his creativity flourished, before heading inland to the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence. Here, our local guide will captivate you with tales of the renowned artists who were drawn to this quintessential Provençal village, including Picasso, Modigliani, Dufy, and Matisse. Enjoy a delightful lunch in this hilltop village, where the vibrant colours and artistic heritage are as rich as its history. Marc Chagall, who returned from exile during World War II and lived in the village for 19 years, rests in the local cemetery, adding a final touch to the area’s artistic legacy.

05 July 2026

La Spezia

06 July 2026

Livorno

When Italians give birth they use the phrase, dare alla luce, which literally means to ‘give to the light.’ It is no coincidence that the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, widely acknowledged as having dragged Europe from the dark days of the Middle Ages into the light, was synonymous with the Rennaissance or The Rebirth. Rising from the ruins of the Roman Empire, Tuscany flourished into a wealthy trading and banking centre becoming Europe’s first capitalist state. The Duchy’s ruling family, the Medicis, sponsored its artistic scene with fervour. Artists transitioned from tradespeople to celebrities overnight, with da Vinci playing lute at their private parties and Michelangelo befriended by men who would become popes. The ruling classes commissioned works of art such as Donatello’s Penitent Magdalene, Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Raphael’s Madonna del Cardellino. Throughout the Duchy, art was showcased in piazzas, scattered throughout the streets and placed at the townhall steps. A form of propaganda and sign of power for all to see. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Full-day experience: The Rebirth of FlorenceAccessible to all who visit, Florence’s works of art are scattered throughout its streets as statues, fountains, chapels and bell towers, and all looked down upon by Brunelleschi’s magnificent domed cathedral. Even the gelato is sculpted in Florence! Carved from a single slab of marble, Michelangelo’s David is the ultimate Renaissance man, commissioned as the centrepiece for the city’s main square. Today it sits in its own gallery, but a replica at its original location tells its story almost as well. Our locally guided tour walks us through a day in the life of Renaissance man as we tread the streets where the early artists plied their trade, sought wealthy patrons and huddled in backstreet studios to learn from the masters. Option 2 – Full-day experience: San GimignanoWhen filmmakers look to Italy for locations, they need look no further than the Tuscan gem of San Gimignano. Tea with Mussolini, A Portrait of a Woman, Gladiator, Life is Beautiful, The English Patient and Under the Tuscan Sun all feature scenes shot here. San Gimignano itself is a work of art. The town’s medieval architecture serves as a backdrop for everything Tuscan, with artisan shopfronts displaying everything that is superb about Italian food, and cafes offering everything that is wonderous about Italian cuisine. Even its streets and cobblestone alleys wind in a way that makes every corner worthy of exploration. And did we mention its towers? It is the town’s 14 remaining medieval towers proudly rising above its skyline, which preserve the town’s feudal appearance and confirm San Gimignano as the superlative of Tuscan towns. After building up a thirst exploring San Gimignano’s medieval streets, we venture into the Tuscan countryside to a traditional winery. Here, we enjoy a guided tasting of regional wines before sitting down to a relaxed lunch; Tuscan style, surrounded by sweeping vineyard views and the flavours that define this celebrated region.

07 July 2026

Portoferraio

Sailing south we arrive at the island of Elba. Elba’s rich history extends far beyond its famed connection to Napoleon Bonaparte. Portoferraio, the island’s capital, is perched on a dramatic promontory and is one of Elba’s oldest settlements, tracing its roots back to the Ligurians, Etruscans and Greeks. The town’s current form was shaped under the Tuscan Grand Duke, Cosimo I, who renamed it Cosmopoli and fortified it in 1548 to protect against pirate raids. These formidable defences, visible from the sea, successfully repelled the notorious Turkish privateer Dragut. Portoferraio is also celebrated as Napoleon’s residence during his exile from 4 May 1814 to 26 February 1815, adding a significant layer to its historical allure. Follow the footsteps of ‘the little emperor’ or enjoy a swim in ‘the Med’ before returning to the ship for lunch. There’s time this afternoon to explore Portoferraio before we sail to Corsica in the early evening.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Elba’s Exiled EmperorEmbark on a captivating tour of Elba Island, starting with a deep dive into Portoferraio’s Napoleonic heritage. Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to Elba in 1814 following his abdication as Emperor of France, a strategic move by the victorious Prussians and British to contain him. Despite the island’s confinement, Napoleon’s exile was marked by significant activity, including administrative reforms and fortification projects. Transfer to Villa San Martino, Napoleon’s secluded summer residence, where a modest country house was transformed into an elegant retreat rivalling the finest Parisian homes. Explore its restored salons, refined décor by Antonio Vincenzo Revelli, and the rooftop garden overlooking Portoferraio. After Napoleon’s departure, the villa later became the property of Russian noble and art collector Anatolio Demidoff. Continue with a scenic return to Portoferraio to visit Forte Stella and Forte Falcone, the historic fortifications strengthened under Napoleon to protect the harbour—offering sweeping views and a glimpse into Elba’s imperial past. (Note: this excursion originally visited Villa dei Mulini. This site is currently closed to the public due to major restoration work.)Option 2 – Morning experience: Capoliveri Village with Beach EscapeEmbark on a journey to Capoliveri, a village perched at 413 metres on Elba Island. This picturesque locale blends medieval architecture with rich history. Begin with a guided tour through narrow streets and archways, known as chiassi, before exploring the town at your own pace, browsing boutiques and taking in the atmosphere.Capoliveri’s coastline features cliffs and serene bays. Take time to visit the beach beneath the town, where there will be time for a swim. An area of the beach offers sun umbrellas and lounge chairs for rent (own expense), providing a comfortable spot to relax. After enjoying your time at the beach, board your coach and drive back to the ship in time for lunch.

08 July 2026

Bastia

Our journey today takes us to a slice of France in the Mediterranean. Though it has been part of France since 1769, Corsica maintains a distinct identity, blending Italian and French influences due to its historical ties with both nations. Known for its rugged landscapes, winding roads and craggy coves, Corsica’s 340,000 inhabitants have a strong sense of regional pride, tested annually by an influx of three million tourists. The island’s status as a territorial collectivity grants it greater autonomy within the French Republic, allowing for the preservation of its Corsican language and customs. This blend of French governance and Corsican heritage creates a rich, multifaceted culture that sets the island apart from mainland France.Our first port of call sits on the northern tip of this ‘holiday’ island; Bastia. Founded in 1378 by the Genoese, Bastia retains a flamboyant mix of French and Italianate flavours more than much of the island, making it quintessentially Corsican. This Baroque coastal town's historic centre exudes the timeless, salty atmosphere of an ancient Mediterranean port. Its name derives from "bastion” - referring to the Genoese fortress built as a stronghold against rebellious islanders. The Terra Vecchia (Old Town) is best explored on foot where vibrantly coloured houses once served as recognisable markers for sailors upon their return from sea voyages, a tradition still honoured today.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiencesOption 1 - Morning experience: Cap Corse West Coast DiscoveryEmbark on a breathtaking journey through the west side of Cap Corse, discovering the island’s wild beauty and coastal charm. From Bastia, travel across the spectacular Teghime Pass, enjoy free time in Nonza, the hidden gem of Cap Corse, and take in the scenic Patrimonio wine region. Conclude your adventure with a delightful visit to Saint-Florent, before returning via the Teghime Pass — this time from a different angle — for even more stunning views of Corsica’s contrasting coasts.Option 2 - Morning experience: Wine Tasting in the PatrimonioExperience the charm of Corsica’s Patrimonio wine region, renowned for its unique terroir. Located in the northwest corner of the island, Patrimonio’s rugged, scrub-covered landscape features soils distinct from the rest of Corsica, enriched by chalky clay and limestone. The region benefits from a wide temperature range between day and night and is influenced by the cooling sea winds from the Ligurian Sea. Patrimonio, one of France’s pioneering organic viticulture regions, was granted AOC status in 1968, making it the island’s oldest appellation.On this tour, you’ll explore a local winery and gain insight into the winemaking process. Learn about the main grape variety, Nieluccio, along with Sangiovese, Grenache, and Sciaccarello for reds and rosés, and Vermentino for whites. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards and cellars, followed by a tasting session of the region’s exceptional wines. Discover the historical roots of Corsican winemaking and savour the distinctive flavours crafted by dedicated winemakers who uphold traditional practices and organic cultivation.Option 3 - Afternoon experience: The Living Heritage Company - LN Mattei DistilleryDiscover the LN Mattei Distillery, a Corsican heritage landmark since 1872. Founded by Louis Napoléon Mattei, it’s renowned for Le Cap Corse Mattei, an aperitif blending quinquina wine with local fruits like citron and myrtle. Mattei’s vision to highlight Corsican produce continues with a diverse range of spirits, including Cap Corse Mattei Grande Réserve, Eaux de Vie, and new liqueurs. In 2021, the distillery introduced two distinctive gins: LN Mattei Distilled Dry Gin, which won a Gold Medal at the 2022 Concours Général Agricole, and L'Immortel Gin. Located on Domaine Mavela, the distillery’s traditional methods and seasonal rhythms are showcased through the meticulous hand-picking of fruits, careful ingredient preparation, and the creation of “mistelle” from Corsican grapes.A tour of the LN Mattei Distillery highlights its artisanal expertise and commitment to quality. Finish your visit with a tasting of their exceptional spirits, reflecting the craftsmanship that has earned the distillery the title of ‘Living Heritage Company.’

09 July 2026

Bonifacio, Corsica

Our second Corsican port of call is a unique city built high on cliffs overlooking ‘the Med’. Strategically positioned for trade, Corsica’s southern town of Bonifacio was once a key commercial hub. During your visit, choose from our 'Your Choice' experiences: spend the morning exploring Bonifacio with your afternoon free to discover its charming streets on your own, or venture inland to delve into the island’s burgeoning wine culture. Each option provides a unique way to immerse yourself in Corsica’s vibrant heritage. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Bonifacio Thanks to its stunning natural setting, the ancient fortress town of Bonifacio has attracted travellers for centuries. Protected by vast chalk walls, the town stretches along a narrow promontory, supported by orange-hued limestone cliffs that have been hollowed out by centuries of pounding waves. We join our guide for a tour of the tangled medieval alleyways of the Bosco quarter in search of traditional wares. We spend time at the 14th century Convent of St. Francis, where we find an ancient cemetery dedicated to mariners, and also the church of Saint-Dominique, built in 1270 by the Knights Templar. Our tour takes us through tiny, narrow streets flanked by traditional houses. This ancient trading port’s facades and streets tell fascinating tales of pirates and sieges, among them the 12th century church of Sainte Marie-Majeure, which sits above an underground cistern that was a source of water during times of siege. We visit a house that hosted emperors Napoleon Bonaparte and Charles V on the aptly named Two Emperors Road; and we visit the Chapel of Saint-Roch, built on the spot where the last victim of the plague died in 1528, after plague decimated the island. This experience returns to the ship around midday. Should you wish to linger longer in this hilltop wonder or enjoy lunch on board before returning to explore further, a town-to-ship shuttle will operate this afternoon. Option 2 – Full day experience: Sartene and Corsican wines We combine the definitive Corsican village of Sartene with a visit to a traditional Corsican vineyard today. As the only island vineyards in France and with over 2,000 years of heritage, Corsica’s wines are distinctive. The diversity of soils, sun-drenched hillsides and the unique microclimates offer robust red and white wines. Traditional Corsican red wine comes from Nielluccio and Sciacarello grapes, and white wine from Vermentino and Biancu Gentile. We learn about these ancient grape varieties when we visit a winery in the Ortolu Valley. Our journey continues through the rugged Corsican interior to the village of Sartene. Sartene clings to a hillside, offering striking architecture and wonderful views, which hide a conflicted past. Two hundred years ago, the village’s plaza had a guillotine that was used during times of political and social unrest. Throughout its past, Sartene endured numerous invasions by pirates and by the Genoese, before conceding to the French in 1768. Today, life here is a little gentler. Our local guide walks us through Sartene’s charming, cobbled streets, where we visit the Church of Sainte-Marie-de-l’Assomption, which holds the sacred hood, chain and cross that were carried through town during the Good Friday Procession, and we have time to explore the village’s shops and side streets, before returning to Bonifacio. This experience returns to Bonifacio mid-afternoon. Should you wish to explore this hilltop wonder independently, a town-to-ship shuttle will operate this afternoon.

10 July 2026

Civitavecchia

Disembarking at the port of Civitavecchia, we transfer to Rome for a two-night stay in this ancient city.On arrival at Rome, we enter its inner circle at The Vatican City. Choose between our Vatican City experiences, with the option to enjoy a relaxed visit to St Peters, or a combined visit to St Peters, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. A former circus where Nero staged barbaric spectacles to entertain the masses, the Vatican City became consecrated ground when Rome’s first Christian emperor, Constantine declared the land to be ‘the hill of the martyrs’. This sovereign state, gifted independence from Italy in 1929, encapsulates St Peters Cathedral, the Vatican museums and a labyrinth of corridors, apartments and gardens housing the Pope and his staff.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences Option 1 – Full day experience: Christendom’s most renowned churchArriving in Rome, we enter Vatican City to visit Christendom’s most renowned church; St. Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. At the age of 72, Michelangelo designed its majestic dome to soar above the tomb of the first apostle, St. Peter, and the resting place of his successors; the Popes. Yet it is his earlier work, the Pietà, sculpted when he was only 22, that captures the Basilica’s grandeur in the most intimate and moving way: the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of her son.Outside, St. Peter’s Square, framed by Bernini’s sweeping colonnades, can accommodate over 300,000 people, making it the stage for some of the most significant moments in Catholic history. Here, Popes have celebrated Mass and addressed the faithful for centuries, continuing a tradition that underscores the Basilica’s role as the spiritual heart of the Church.Our local guides bring this extraordinary site to life on a guided walking tour, sharing the stories behind its religious buildings, artistic treasures, and even the scandals that have shaped its history. Having stood in awe at this incredible site, we enjoy a Roman style lunch, before continuing to the hotel to check-in mid-afternoon.Option 2 – Full day experience: Treasures of the VaticanDriving to Rome, we enter the Vatican City and meet our guides at Christendom's most famous church, St Peters Basilica, a Michelangelo masterpiece. At 72 he designed the cupola to cover the sky above the bones of the first apostle, St Peter, and his successors – the Popes. Yet it is his sculpture of the Virgin Mary cradling the body of her son, the Pieta, which he created at only 22 years of age, that so succinctly distils the grandeur of St Peters to a personal experience so succinctly.Next door, the 55 gallerias that make up the Vatican Museum, house the world's greatest artistic treasure chest. Ranging from the Vatican library with its 65,000 manuscripts including the original love letter from Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn, to the sarcophagus of Saint Helen, Constantine’s mother. Each sala builds on the wonders of the previous. There are rooms decorated by Raphael, barrel vaulted ceilings covered with ancient maps, endless halls lined by statuesque marble sculptures and corridors of secret souvenirs collected by various Popes over centuries of rule - capped off by Michelangelo’s masterful frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. When viewed in real life, The Sistine Chapel will take your breath away. Having walked the Vatican City, we enjoy a Roman style lunch, arriving late afternoon at our hotel.Accommodation: Rome HotelMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

11 July 2026

Rome

An intriguing tale of historical drama and legendary myths make Rome every trivia buff’s dream. Scandalous and sanguine, Roman lifestyle swung from democratic to autocratic, slavery to liberation, paganism to Christianity. The Roman empire’s public relations machine flaunted its sovereignty with triumphant arches and fluted columns, monolithic mausoleums, statue-ridden stairways and masterfully engineered temples. Enhanced by the wealth of the Catholic Church, the city added to its opulence and grandeur with baroque fountains, obelisk-centred piazzas and Christendom’s domed cathedrals. The story of ancient Rome’s insurmountable empire, its dramatic demise and the rise of the powerful Catholic Church is one of Europe’s most compelling stories. A tour of Rome is a highlight of any visit to Italy, especially for those of us whose homeland is anything other than ancient. Imperial relics rekindle the era when Rome’s population of one million surpassed any other city worldwide. Our local guides merge the city’s past and present through their stories on every street corner, along every alley and in every piazza. Choose a shorter, comprehensive tour or lace up your walking shoes and experience Rome from street level on a locally guided walking tour. In the afternoon, enjoy some time for independent exploration before we gather for a Farewell Event, Roman style. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences Option 1 - Morning experience: Highlights of Rome – Walking and Driving TourRome tells its tale as we tour its major sights on this morning experience. We encounter the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus, viewing them from a nearby terrace while our guide inspires us with stories of Rome’s past. Gifted to the people of Rome as a museum to house the generous number of sculptures and statues left scattered throughout the city, the Capitoline Museum was the brainchild of Pope Sixtus IV. We visit the museum with our art historian guides to piece together the city’s past through its numerous artworks before our journey continues with a drive to our central drop off point. We walk to the Trevi fountain to ensure you have the chance return to Rome (do not forget your coin) before rejoining our coach for the drive back to the hotel, where the afternoon will be yours to enjoy at leisure.Option 2 – Half day plus experience: Roaming Rome Walking TourLace up your walking shoes, slip on a hat and slap on sunscreen to join this comprehensive locally guided tour. Established in an era when few Romans owned transportation, the centre of historical Rome is perfect for walking. With every square foot offering a fascinating fact, the list of sites we experience is limitless. Architectural highlights include the chariot stadium of Circus Maximus, and ancient sites such as the Colosseum, the Forum, Trajan's column, and the engineering marvel; the Pantheon. Artistic gems and political enigmas include the Trevi Fountain, the Piazza Venezia, Vittoria Emanuelle II Monument and the Piazza Navona. Each site tells a story as we take time to witness its place in the past with our expert guides telling tales of the emperors, gladiators and plebs, Renaissance men, Popes and militia who made Rome their home. Accommodation: Rome HotelMeals: Breakfast, Farewell Event canapés

12 July 2026

Rome

After breakfast, check-out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Meals: Breakfast

Whats Included with
AE Expeditions

From the start, AE Expeditions was destined to be different. Their passion for adventure, exploring wild places and sharing the experience with friends burns just as brightly as it did 30 years ago, as does their preference for small-group, personal expeditions.

Daily shore excursions, guided walks, Zodiac cruises and some activities^

Entry fees to historic or tourist sites

An experienced team of destination specialists, activity leaders, and local guides*

Daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and snacks

House wines, beer and soft drinks included with dinner

Captain’s Farewell drinks including four-course dinner, house cocktail, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages

Complimentary 3-in-1 polar jacket on polar voyages

Complimentary use of Muck boots during the voyage

Complimentary Starlink wifi onboard

An informative and entertaining lecture program by our team of experts

Complimentary use of fitness centre

Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)

Comprehensive pre-departure information and Antarctic or Arctic Primer booklet

Explore Douglas Mawson

Douglas Mawson Cabins & Suites

Aurora Stateroom Twin

The Douglas Mawson features two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring windows, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.

King or twin bed
Private en-suite
Porthole window
Closet space
Room safe
Mini bar*
Desk area
Room-controlled thermostat
42" flat-screen TV
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Cabins 311 & 309 have a sofa.

FLOORPLANS

Facilities

Sofa Bed
King or Twin Configuration
Vanity Area
Shower
Toiletries Provided
TV
Safe
Desk
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
Dining Area
Hair Dryer
Telephone
Air Conditioning

Balcony Stateroom Superior

With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Deck 4 & 6
King or twin beds
Private en-suite (wheelchair accessible available)
Full size window
Closet space
Room safe
Mini bar*
Private balcony
Desk area
Room-controlled thermostat
42" flat-screen TV
1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

FLOORPLANS

Facilities

King or Twin Configuration
Vanity Area
Shower
Toiletries Provided
TV
Safe
Desk
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
Hair Dryer
Telephone
Air Conditioning

Captain's Suite

The largest of all our rooms, the singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite.