Small Ship Mediterranean Cruises with PONANT

For travellers who want more than scenic coastlines and famous ports, PONANT EXPLORATIONS’ alliance with Smithsonian Journeys offers a more meaningful way to experience the Mediterranean. These thoughtfully-designed small ship voyages combine cultural immersion, expert-led learning, and access to historic sites that are often difficult to reach on larger vessels. The result is a style of cruising that prioritizes understanding a destination, not just visiting it.

Together, PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys create itineraries shaped by curiosity. Each voyage is designed to provide historical context, cultural insight, and engaging storytelling, allowing travellers to connect more deeply with the places they explore.

About PONANT EXPLORATIONS

For more than 35 years, PONANT EXPLORATIONS has been dedicated to creating journeys that are rooted in discovery, respect for destinations, and meaningful travel experiences. The company is widely recognized as a leader in high-end exploration cruising, offering thoughtfully-designed voyages aboard small ships that host fewer than 500 guests.

Service and comfort are central to the PONANT experience. Onboard, guests enjoy refined design inspired by French elegance, attentive service from a highly trained crew, and well-curated spaces that support both relaxation and enrichment. At the same time, PONANT places a strong focus on responsible tourism, incorporating advanced environmental technologies and sustainability initiatives across its fleet.

The Smithsonian Journeys Experience at Sea

Smithsonian Journeys cruises are designed for travellers who enjoy learning as part of their travel experience. Each voyage includes onboard enrichment led by two Smithsonian Journeys Scholars. These experts, often historians, archaeologists, geologists, or cultural specialists, offer lectures and informal discussions throughout the sailing, adding depth and perspective to each destination.

Shore excursions are included in every port of call and are carefully selected to highlight cultural, historical, and archaeological significance. Rather than rushing through destinations, these voyages encourage thoughtful exploration and meaningful engagement with the Mediterranean’s layered past.

Exploring the Mediterranean with PONANT & Smithsonian Journeys

Mediterranean sailings offered through this alliance often focus on island-rich routes and culturally significant ports, allowing travellers to experience several regions in a single journey. These itineraries highlight the civilizations that have shaped the Mediterranean over thousands of years, from ancient Greece and Rome to Norman, Byzantine, and Arab influences.

Sicily, Sardinia, and the Balearic Islands

Voyages through the western and central Mediterranean frequently explore Sicily and Sardinia, where well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins reveal the foundations of classical civilization. Guests may visit Norman cathedral churches in places such as Erice and Monreale, as well as admire intricate Byzantine-Arab mosaics in Palermo’s Cappella Palatina. Sailings may also include time in the Balearic Islands, with stops in Menorca and Mallorca, offering insight into the region’s maritime history and cultural identity. Several UNESCO World Heritage Sites are commonly featured along these routes, reflecting the Mediterranean’s enduring historical importance.

Mediterranean Island Voyages

Island-focused itineraries provide the opportunity to explore destinations such as Elba, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, and Malta in a single sailing. Travellers may walk the medieval streets of Bonifacio on Corsica, visit Napoleon’s former summer residence on Elba, or explore ancient cities such as Syracuse and Taormina. These journeys often combine archaeological exploration with local experiences, including opportunities to sample regional wines and traditional specialties that reflect each island’s character.

Life Onboard with PONANT EXPLORATIONS

PONANT’s small ships are designed to enhance both comfort and access. With fewer guests onboard, the atmosphere feels relaxed and personal, allowing for attentive service and a quieter onboard environment. The smaller ship size also makes it possible to reach ports and coastal areas that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships, adding to the sense of discovery.

Ships such as Le Boréal and Le Dumont d’Urville reflect PONANT’s focus on refined design, modern technology, and thoughtful public spaces. Interiors are inspired by French elegance, while onboard lounges and lecture areas are well-suited for enrichment programs and relaxed conversation. PONANT also places an emphasis on responsible travel, incorporating advanced environmental technologies and sustainability initiatives across its fleet.

Why Choose PONANT & Smithsonian Journeys?

This alliance is particularly appealing to travellers who value depth, context, and learning as part of their journey. It is well-suited for those who prefer small ship cruising, appreciate included shore excursions, and enjoy travelling with like-minded guests who share an interest in history, culture, and exploration.

Rather than focusing on entertainment or large-scale attractions, these voyages emphasize meaningful experiences, expert insight, and thoughtful pacing. Guests are encouraged to ask questions, engage in discussion, and develop a deeper understanding of the Mediterranean’s cultural and historical significance.

A Mediterranean cruise with PONANT EXPLORATIONS and Smithsonian Journeys offers a balanced approach to travel that combines comfort, education, and exploration. These small ship voyages are designed for travellers who want to go beyond surface-level sightseeing and gain a richer appreciation for the destinations they visit.

For those seeking an enriching and well-considered way to explore the Mediterranean, this partnership provides a compelling option that blends discovery with insight, all within an intimate small-ship setting.

READY TO SET SAIL ON A MEDITERRANEAN ADVENTURE?

When you’re ready to book your next travel plans, contact one of our Tier One Travel consultants. They will find the perfect place for your next vacation and will craft something incredible that is suited to your unique needs and will make sure your travel plans will be as stress-free as possible.