Eastern lights and islands of the Aegean Sea

22 Dec 2027
7 Nights
Le Lapérouse
Africa
View Itinerary

ITINERARY

Oraia (beautiful) is the word Greeks use to describe Nafplion. The town's old section, on a peninsula jutting into the gulf of Argos, mixes Greek, Venetian, and Turkish architecture; narrow streets, often just broad flights of stone stairs, climb the slopes beneath the walls of Acronafplia. Tree-shaded plazas surround neoclassic buildings. The Palamidi fortress—an elegant display of Venetian might from the early 1700s—guards the town. Nafplion deserves at least a leisurely day of your undivided attention, and you may want to spend several days or a week here and use the city as the base from which to explore the many surrounding ancient sights.

Undoubtedly the most extraordinary island in the Aegean, crescent-shape Santorini remains a mandatory stop on the Cycladic tourist route—even if it's necessary to enjoy the sensational sunsets from Ia, the fascinating excavations, and the dazzling white towns with a million other travelers. Called Kállisti (the "Loveliest") when first settled, the island has now reverted to its subsequent name of Thira, after the 9th-century-BC Dorian colonizer Thiras. The place is better known, however, these days as Santorini, a name derived from its patroness, St. Irene of Thessaloniki, the Byzantine empress who restored icons to Orthodoxy and died in 802. You can fly conveniently to Santorini, but to enjoy a true Santorini rite of passage, opt instead for the boat trip here, which provides a spectacular introduction. After the boat sails between Sikinos and Ios, your deck-side perch approaches two close islands with a passage between them. The bigger one on the left is Santorini, and the smaller on the right is Thirassia. Passing between them, you see the village of Ia adorning Santorini's northernmost cliff like a white geometric beehive. You are in the caldera (volcanic crater), one of the world's truly breathtaking sights: a demilune of cliffs rising 1,100 feet, with the white clusters of the towns of Fira and Ia perched along the top. The bay, once the high center of the island, is 1,300 feet in some places, so deep that when boats dock in Santorini's shabby little port of Athinios, they do not drop anchor. The encircling cliffs are the ancient rim of a still-active volcano, and you are sailing east across its flooded caldera. On your right are the Burnt isles, the White isle, and other volcanic remnants, all lined up as if some outsize display in a geology museum. Hephaestus's subterranean fires smolder still—the volcano erupted in 198 BC, about 735, and there was an earthquake in 1956. Indeed, Santorini and its four neighboring islets are the fragmentary remains of a larger landmass that exploded about 1600 BC: the volcano's core blew sky high, and the sea rushed into the abyss to create the great bay, which measures 10 km by 7 km (6 mi by 4½ mi) and is 1,292 feet deep. The other pieces of the rim, which broke off in later eruptions, are Thirassia, where a few hundred people live, and deserted little Aspronissi ("White isle"). In the center of the bay, black and uninhabited, two cones, the Burnt Isles of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, appeared between 1573 and 1925. There has been too much speculation about the identification of Santorini with the mythical Atlantis, mentioned in Egyptian papyri and by Plato (who says it's in the Atlantic), but myths are hard to pin down. This is not true of old arguments about whether tidal waves from Santorini's cataclysmic explosion destroyed Minoan civilization on Crete, 113 km (70 mi) away. The latest carbon-dating evidence, which points to a few years before 1600 BC for the eruption, clearly indicates that the Minoans outlasted the eruption by a couple of hundred years, but most probably in a weakened state. In fact, the island still endures hardships: since antiquity, Santorini has depended on rain collected in cisterns for drinking and irrigating—the well water is often brackish—and the serious shortage is alleviated by the importation of water. However, the volcanic soil also yields riches: small, intense tomatoes with tough skins used for tomato paste (good restaurants here serve them); the famous Santorini fava beans, which have a light, fresh taste; barley; wheat; and white-skin eggplants.

Early travelers described Rhodes as a town of two parts: a castle or high town (Collachium) and a lower city. Today Rhodes town—sometimes referred to as Ródos town—is still a city of two parts: the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that incorporates the high town and lower city, and the modern metropolis, or New Town, spreading away from the walls that encircle the Old Town. The narrow streets of the Old Town are for the most part closed to cars and are lined with Orthodox and Catholic churches, Turkish houses (some of which follow the ancient orthogonal plan), and medieval public buildings with exterior staircases and facades elegantly constructed of well-cut limestone from Lindos. Careful reconstruction in recent years has enhanced the harmonious effect.

Bodrum blends ancient wonder with coastal elegance, making it a standout stop on any Aegean cruise. From its striking castle and historic ruins to stylish boutiques and sun-drenched beaches, this Turkish gem offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking culture, relaxation, or seaside adventure, Bodrum warmly welcomes you with its charm, history, and effortless Mediterranean flair.

As the largest Turkish city on the western Mediterranean coast, Antalya is a mix of antiquity and modernity. It is popular with tourist all year round for its warm climate and sandy white beaches.

Explore Ship

Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria was Egypt's capital for over 1,000 years. Now, it is visited by tourists looking to enjoy some diving and those interested in the Great Library, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Day 1

Athens

22 Dec 2027

Athens

Day 2

Náfplion

23 Dec 2027

Náfplion

Santorini

24 Dec 2027

Santorini

Sailing in the Santorini Caldera

24 Dec 2027

Sailing in the Santorini Caldera

Day 4

Rhodes

25 Dec 2027

Rhodes

Bodrum

26 Dec 2027

Bodrum

Antalya

27 Dec 2027

Antalya

As the largest Turkish city on the western Mediterranean coast, Antalya is a mix of antiquity and modernity. It is popular with tourist all year round for its warm climate and sandy white beaches.

At Sea

28 Dec 2027

At Sea

Day 8

Alexandria

29 Dec 2027

Alexandria

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.

Explore Le Lapérouse

Le Nautilus

At the back of deck 4, you will find a gourmet restaurant complete with wine cellar, offering French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy a menu crafted by the Ducasse Conseil teams at the gourmet restaurant. At Nautilus as well as Céleste, the freedom of a generous buffet blends with the elegance of table service: your chef offers you a selection of expertly prepared hot dishes, accompanied by carefully chosen fine wines by your sommelier.

Grill Restaurant- Le Nemo

In a relaxed atmosphere, the grill restaurant located on deck 3 welcomes you for breakfast and buffet lunches as well as themed dinners.

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

Excursions

There are many ways to see the world. But to truly discover it? Unexplored shores, authentic encounters, iconic wildlife... Our experts imagine the most beautiful travel stories for you.

Unforgettable moments

Holding your breath to better perceive that of a distant whale, stepping foot on Antarctica for the first time, watching through binoculars the passage of a polar bear in the Arctic, marvelling at the splendour of the Mediterranean architectural heritage... Moments of pure emotion as time seems to suspended.

Unique exchanges

Share the art of living, wisdom and hospitality of communities with strong ancestral traditions. Exchanges about their philosophy in connection with the environment are an endless source of teachings.

Explore further

Navigating close to the almost inaccessible coasts of Greenland, exploring the confidential shores of Oceania, reaching the most remote seas of Antarctica, taking new paths in the Mediterranean or Northern Europe: our experts are constantly seeking new travel experiences to offer you.

Experts by your side

Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy... Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.

Captains

Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlife appears on the horizon, do not hesitate to accept their invitation to join the outer decks for magnificent observations. Gala dinners are also unmissable opportunities to meet your captain and share with them your passion for travel.

Expedition leaders

Alongside the captain, the expedition leader conducts your exploration. They supervise the team of naturalist guides, ensure the safety of the proposed experiences, and adjust the highlights of your journey according to the navigation conditions, to reveal all the riches of these fascinating ecosystems.

Photo ambassadors

During some trips, having renowned photographers on board offers you the unique opportunity to participate in workshops, and conferences, and receive personalised advice to enhance your images.

Activity guides

Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, polar hiking on foot or snowshoes, cross-country skiing, dog sledding... Whether it's for an introduction or to deepen your practice, experience immersive activities led by certified guides, ambassadors of local cultures and communities.

Guests and partners

Dancers, musicians, writers, journalists, researchers, adventurers... Experts and prestigious partners share their passion, whether it is artistic or scientific.

Speakers

Art historians, journalists, ethnologists, naturalists... Every journey is a unique opportunity to learn more about the regions visited.

The Hydraulic Platform

Deck 2
Much easier onboard access than on any other cruise ship
Easier disembarking and embarking by Zodiac when participating in expeditions
Swimming and bathing in the sea and various nautical sports, such as kayaking and paddle-boarding

The Observatory Lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

Swimming Pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun. From the marina platform, embark on your sea excursions or water activities in complete tranquility.

The Main Lounge Room

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

The Theatre

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as the various shows, concerts, and performances organised by professional dancers and musicians.

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.

Art and literature

Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.

The Blue Eye

Located below the waterline of the ship, the Blue Eye is an innovative underwater lounge. Its design, inspired by the beauty of cetaceans, pays tribute to oceanographic environments.

Boutique

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

Excursion Reception and Office

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

Open Bar

From the moment of boarding, unlimited drinks are included at any time of the day. A drink with friends at the bar, a refreshment upon returning from an excursion, or quietly on the balcony of your cabin: enjoy a wide selection of beverages (mineral water, soft drinks, cruise wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea).

The offer does not include premium alcoholic beverages listed on the bar menu.

The Spa

Onboard our ships, in the heart of an intimate and privileged environment with the ocean as your backdrop, discover a new way to enjoy the Spa experience.

In association with SOTHYS™ Paris, we are offering you a selection of expert face and body treatments. The “savoir-faire” and expertise of our hair professional partner DAVINES® will be able to satisfy all your expectations.

The Gym

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

The Hairdressing Salon

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

The Kids Explorers Club

During your cruise, PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers a program of activities dedicated to children, from 4 to 13 years old on our entire fleet.

A team of experienced facilitators on board offers daily manual activities, educational workshops, board games, introductory meditation sessions, and much more, as well as content specific to each itinerary and the number of participants.

Kid Explorers have the opportunity to extend this experience on land with the possibility of enjoying a tailor-made excursion, swimming outings, walks and scavenger hunts.

This program of activities will be offered to children every day. (The exact times will be communicated to you by the activity leaders.)

To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to your cruise itinerary. For more information, please contact the entertainment team beforehand.

The program of entertainment and activities is communicated daily in the logbook.

A welcome kit with gifts is offered to each child on board.

Le Lapérouse Cabins & Suites

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
A private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A chaise lounge
A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Lower Decks Balcony Stateroom

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A chaise lounge
A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Owner's Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 430 ft² terrace with hot tub and lounge area with 2 deck chairs, sofa, and armchair
Two sliding panoramic windows
A bathroom with shower, spa bathtub, and smart mirror
Butler service
A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
A private return transfer
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit on arrival
A fruit basket every day
A living room with a convertible sofa into a double bed, armchair, and TV
One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Prestige Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 86 ft² balcony with four armchairs
Two sliding panoramic windows
Champagne and fruit on arrival (Suite Prestige deck 6)
Priority boarding (Suite Prestige deck 6)
Butler service (Suite Prestige deck 6)
A fruit basket every day (Suite Prestige deck 6)
One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A living room with a convertible sofa into a king-size or two single beds, armchair, TV, and a courtesy sliding door
Two bathrooms with showers

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Privilege Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
Butler service
A fruit basket every day
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Deluxe Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

On Decks 3, 4, and 6, a private 6m² balcony with two armchairs; on Deck 5, a private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
On Deck 3, a panoramic glass door and porthole; on Decks 4, 5, and 6, a sliding panoramic window
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
An armchair and sofa
A bathroom with shower
Champagne and fruit on arrival for suites on Decks 5 and 6

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Grand Suite

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

A private 344 ft² terrace with two deck chairs and a dining table for four people
Two sliding panoramic windows
A bathroom with shower and spa bathtub
Butler service
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit on arrival
A fruit basket every day
One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A living room with a convertible sofa into a double or single bed, armchair, and TV

Included in all staterooms