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Peregrine Travel Centre

10th Annual Piano Festival at Sea – Italy, Greece & Turkey Luxury Cruise

10th Annual Piano Festival at Sea – Italy, Greece & Turkey Luxury Cruise

From AUD $13,570

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Description

In partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE and with featured guest Alain Duault.
In springtime, as the flowers pepper the landscapes with their bright colours and the sun illuminates the decor with its soft light, PONANT invites you on an exquisite interlude in the Mediterranean, between Valletta and Antalya. During a 11-day journey, set off aboard L’Austral to discover the riches of the Mediterranean Sea, a link between peoples, a crossroads of civilisations.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, meet a famous puppeteer in his workshop in Syracuse, visit the Meteora monasteries from Volos or, from Kusadasi, one of the Mediterranean’s best preserved ancient Greco-Roman cities, admire the archaeological site of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab). The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments.
Southern Italy promises suspended moments where the beauty of the shores combines with the beauty of its historical remnants, which remain fascinating. In Syracuse, the Sicilian soul unfolds across the island of Ortygia – the oldest part of the city -, a maze of small streets dotted with churches, palaces, ancient remnants, sheltering a majestic cathedral in its very heart. In Puglia, Gallipoli, meaning “beautiful town” in Greek, reveals its Hellenic origins and offers up its singular atmosphere, where life is good.
In the tranquillity of May, you will discover Greece as you have never seen it. From the mountainous island of Corfu, you will arrive in the small port of Itea from where it is possible to visit the mythical site of Delphi or even the Hosios Loukas monastery, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After crossing the Corinth Canal, you will be welcomed by Athens and its famous acropolis, and the remains of the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion, for an unforgettable port of call. From Volos, Greece will never cease to surprise you: in Thessaly, the formation known as the Meteora hosts Eastern Orthodox monasteries that rub shoulders with the sky and are at one with the rock. 
Kusadasi opens the gateway to Turkey and its treasures. The Ephesus archaeological site will tell you the great history of the Mediterranean, through this ancient city, among the oldest in the Magna Graecia of Asia Minor. From Alanya, you will explore two other majestic ancient sites, Perga and Aspendos, before arriving in Antalya, the end of your cruise.

Trip Name
10th Annual Piano Festival at Sea - Italy, Greece & Turkey Luxury Cruise
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship Length: 142 metres Passenger Capacity: 264 (200 in Antarctica) Built: 2011 This superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins is the result of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. L'Austral has a unique atmosphere, a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being. A sleek silhouette softened by elegantly smooth contours and large, arched windows opening up to the sea and the light: so many features come together to give L’Austral her distinctive shape. Precious materials, discreet elegance and a perfect balance between chic and casual, combine to make you feel as if you are on your own private yacht. A design blending tradition and innovation, where a nautical mood has been subtly recreated. Precious materials in smoothing neutral tones are brought to life with splashes of cheerful reds. So many personal touches create the spirit of a “private yacht”. Cuisine Loyal to the great French tradition, the haute cuisine on board is worthy of the finest restaurants, where discreet, attentive service is the hallmark. Our two restaurants welcome you for breakfasts, lunch and dinner. The Gastronomic Restaurant, with a capacity of 268 persons, is situated on Le Liberté Deck and serves you French and international cuisine accompagnied by fine wine. On the Grill Restaurant, you will have the opportuniny to eat outside and enjoy buffet lunch and themed dinner. Life On Board Whether you want to join other guests in the theatre or games area (Wii™ consoles, etc), or relax on your own in a quiet corner of the library, L'Austral has been designed to meet the needs of every guest. Everything has been done to preserve the independence of each guest to suit their personal tastes: lounges for lectures and shows, a spa in partnership with Sothys™, but also more intimate spaces such as the library and internet corner. Comfortable cabins, nearly all with private balcony, are available for families either as triples or as communicating cabins. There is also a games area with Wii™ consoles, children’s menus, and a baby-sitting service. Just as if you were on a private yacht, your time is your own to do as you please. Fitted with the latest equipment (Kinesis Wall, running machine) and in partnership with the famous Sothys™ brand, the Beauty Centre on L'Austral welcomes you for some unforgettable moments of relaxation and pampering (beauty treatments, hairdresser).

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 VALLETTA
 The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.
Day 2 - Day 2 SYRACUSE, SICILY
 Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.
Day 3 - Day 3 GALLIPOLI
 Gallipoli, which comes from the Greek kalle polis, meaning beautiful town, is very aptly named. Located on the heel of the boot, the town known as “the pearl of Puglia” has many attractions. The whiteness of its façades recalls its Greek origins while its architecture echoes its multiple influences. Its old town, perched on a limestone island, concentrates the cultural heritage of this city with a thousand faces, alternately a Roman colony, then Byzantine, the property of the Popes, Norman, under the rule of Taranto… By itself, it tells the story of the different civilisations of the Mediterranean Sea. 
Day 4 - Day 4 CORFU
 Named after the island, Corfu is the most famous city in the Ionian islands. Protected by citadel fortifications, its old city, designated UNESCO World Heritage, displays unusual Greco-Byzantine and Venetian architecture. Above the water stands Saint George’s church, looking uncannily like a classical temple. The picturesque Pontikonisi, a stone’s throw from the southern point of the town, is the legendary island where Odysseus landed.
Day 5 - Day 5 ITEA & CROSSING THE CORINTH CANAL
 Tucked away in the Gulf of Corinth, this little port is situated in continental Greece, north-west of Athens. Take an easy stroll along the old cobblestone quays, while gazing at the summits encircling the Bay of Itea. We wouldn’t be surprised if you are tempted by a visit to the Delphi Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located on a plateau on the slope of Mount Parnassus, just ten kilometres from Itea. A listed UNESCO World Heritage site, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience whose ancient ruins are surrounded by steep mountains. The Corinth Canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, turning the Peloponnese into an island as it separates the region from the Greek mainland. Inaugurated in 1893, the canal is a little over six kilometres long and enables merchant vessels and passenger to avoid a long 400-km detour around the peninsula. The two sides of the canal reach a height of approximately fifty metres. From the exterior decks, don’t miss this unique opportunity to watch the ship as it navigates along the narrow strip of water encased between tall, ochre cliffs. What an experience!
Day 6 - Day 6 LAVRIO (ATHENS)
 Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
Day 7 - Day 7 VOLOS
 Volos, one of the biggest port cities in Greece, is located at the foot of Mount Pelion. According to mythology, Mount Pelion was a place of celebration for gods and heroes, and the home of the centaurs. The beauty of the place and the magical atmosphere that reigns here can indeed only have been inspired by the gods: the clear water that flows from a multitude of sources bathes the plane trees, apple trees, oaks, beech trees, gardenias, camellias, and hydrangeas that thrive in the fertile soil of Thessaly. Do not miss your chance to visit picturesque village of Milies in the hills, and to discover its traditional architecture. 
Day 8 - Day 8 KUSADASI
 The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. You can bathe there in clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk, in the shade of palms. In the historical district, you can take a mosey down the narrow streets and explore the colourful shops in the bazaar. Close by, the Ephesus archaeological site in the hillsides provides an opportunity to discover the ruins of one of the most famous cities of Antiquity.
Day 9 - Day 9 AT SEA
 During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 10 - Day 10 ALANYA
 On the Turkish Riviera, discover Alanya. This peninsula bordered by the Taurus Mountains enjoys a prime location in the Mediterranean Sea, which made it a strategic position for the rulers of the region during antiquity. Perched on rocky cliffs, its castle dating from the Seljuk period is an open-air museum overlooking the turquoise beaches. Also from the Ottoman period are the splendid, red-tiled villas and the octagonal Red Tower dating from 1226, the symbol of the city. Analya is now a popular seaside resort, and you can enjoy the beach where Cleopatra - the most famous Egyptian queen - is said to have bathed...
Day 11 - Day 11 ANTALYA
 On the Turkish Mediterranean coast, discover the seaside resort of Antalya. While the city sports magnificent fine sandy beaches, it is also known for its significant historical heritage. Many vestiges bear witness to the importance of this former Roman port, such as Hadrian's Gate, built in the year 130 in honour of the visiting emperor. In the old town, it is possible to admire magnificent Ottoman houses with flowery gardens, as well as the broken minaret, built on the ruins of a former Byzantine church. The city’s surroundings also provide an opportunity to discover major archaeological sites, such as that of the ancient city of Aspendos, renowned for its impressive Roman theatre.
Day 12 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $13,570Superior Stateroom
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $14,320Deluxe Stateroom
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $15,080Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $15,830Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $16,740Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $27,110Deluxe Suite
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $30,130Prestige Suite Deck 5
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $30,890Prestige Suite Deck 6
07-05-202517-05-2025AUD $41,870Owner's Suite

Inclusions

    • In partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE and with featured guest Alain Duault.
    • A journey between Malta, Italy, Greece and Turkey, discovering some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful antique sites in early spring.
    • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Valletta, Syracuse and Noto, Corfu, the sanctuary of Delphi and the Hosios Loukas monastery, the Acropolis in Athens, the Meteora from Volos and the historical sites of Ephesus from Kusadasi
    • Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
    • An port of call in Gallipoli to immerse yourself in the gentle way of life of the Puglia region and discover the ancient history of this former Greek city.
    • Sicily with the call at Syracuse.
    • Crossing the Corinth Canal.

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