This voyage in the heart of the Mediterranean explores four islands that, despite their differences, share a history of successive waves of civilizations that have washed over them from prehistoric times to the present. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, French, and Italians—all have left their mark on the language, art, architecture, and cuisine of Elba, Corsica, Sardinia, and Sicily. We are excited to be partnering with Smithsonian Journeys to bring you this specially designed cruise that will include two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Highlights of the voyage include visits to UNESCO World Heritage sits such as Palermo, Monreale, Taormina, Syracuse, and Noto. Experience the charm of the medieval clifftop town of Bonifacio on Corsica and take a leisurely stroll through Napoleon's summer residence on Elba. Spend three days on Sicily and visit ancient cities and ruins, explore markets and try a variety of street food, and travel to stunning coastal towns. Enjoy the culture of this region with all your senses and take advantage of opportunities to savor the wines, cheeses, meats, breads, with tasting events in Noto, Taormina, Palermo, and Portoferraio.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1. Depart U.S./Canada
Day 2. Arrive Nice, France / Embark Le Bougainville
Day 3. Elba, Italy
Day 4. Corsica, France
Day 5. Sardinia, Italy
Day 6. Sicily / Palermo
Day 7. Sicily / Taormina
Day 8. Sicily / Syracuse
Day 9. Valletta, Malta / Disembark / Return homeTrip Highlights
- Travel aboard the luxurious 92-stateroom Le Bougainville
- Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
- Visit five islands in one itinerary (Elba, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, and ending in Malta)
- Visit well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins in Syracuse, Taormina, and Sardinia
- View stunning Byzantine-Arab mosaics in the Cappella Palatina in Palermo and the Norman Cathedral of Monreale
- Wander through the medieval clifftop town of Bonifacio on Corsica
- Stroll Napoleon's summer residence on Elba
- Five UNESCO World Heritage sites: Palermo, Monreale, Taormina, Syracuse, Noto