Ponant, the French cruise line, and Smithsonian Journeys, the travel arm of America's Smithsonian Institution, have revealed their captivating new itineraries for 2025. This marks their 4th year of collaboration, presenting their most ambitious program to date.
Featuring 30 new trips, this is the duo's largest offering in a single year. Drawing upon the museum's rich history, the expeditions aim to enrich the cruising experience, inspiring guests to become "global citizens" through travel. These journeys offer access to a diverse range of experts and experiences, allowing travelers to immerse themselves fully in local cultures, history, cuisine, and wildlife while enjoying luxurious accommodations.
One notable highlight is a two-week voyage from Lisbon to the Canary Islands aboard the Le Bellot cruise ship. This expedition showcases the scenic southern slopes of Iberia, the picturesque Algarve Coast of Portugal, the verdant valleys of Madeira, and the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands. Travelers can also explore world heritage sites in Seville, Spain, and Morocco, guided by Allen Fromherz, a professor of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern history. Scheduled from October 26 to November 8, prices for this voyage start at US$9,020 per person.
Another standout itinerary is a 9-day journey to Sicily aboard Ponant's Le Bougainville liner, departing from Valletta, Malta. This adventure includes visits to Agrigento, Tunisia, Taormina, Syracuse, and the Aeolian Islands, offering volcano treks, winery visits, and slope-side lunches. Prices for this experience, available from June 2 to 10 and August 29 to September 6, start at US$7,420 per person.
Additionally, an 8-day cruise through the Mediterranean aboard the L'Austral liner promises memorable experiences. This voyage, starting from Valletta, Malta, and ending in Tarragona, Spain, includes stops at Sicily, Sardinia, and the Balearic Islands. Highlights range from shopping in Palermo's historic markets to exploring Cagliari's architectural wonders and Menorca's cultural landmarks. Scheduled from October 3 to 10, prices for this journey begin at USUS$5,340 per person.
In addition to the new itineraries, Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys are reintroducing popular trips from 2024, including voyages to Panama and Costa Rica, the Greek Islands, and various destinations in the Mediterranean.