Smithsonian Journeys 2024–2025 Ocean Cruises (Jan. 2024)

Ocean Cruising

2024–2025 Small-Ship Cruises by Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT SmithsonianJourneys.org

Enriching Voyages Accompanied by Our Experts Among the many wonderful reasons to embark on a small-ship cruise with Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT are the experts who travel with you. Each voyage is accompanied by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, offering you diverse and thought-provoking perspectives on your destination. You might explore Sicily with an archaeologist and a renowned culinary expert, or sail the Great Lakes with a maritime historian and a geologist. On next year’s voyage to Antarctica, we’ve lined up Dyan deNapoli, a penguin expert, TED speaker, and award-winning author who is better known as The Penguin Lady.

Smithsonian’s own Jim Preston, longtime head photographer for the National Air and Space Museum, will also be on board to share his expertise as you photograph incomparable wildlife and icescapes. In this catalog, you’ll find new voyages that will bring you to captivating ports across the globe—from Istanbul to the Canary Islands. We hope you will join us!

Lynn Cutter Senior Vice President, Smithsonian Travel

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Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Cruise Collection 4 6 8

Our Alliance With PONANT Life on Board Travel with Our Experts

EUROPE 10 Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage 11 London to Lisbon: Cruising Europe’s Western Shores 12 Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea 13 Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice 14 Cruising the Norwegian Fjords 15 Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea 16 Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily: Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights NEW! 17 A Circumnavigation of Sicily 18 Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea 19 Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea 20 Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba 21 Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca NEW! 22 Lisbon to the Canary Islands by Sea: Spain, Morocco, and the Atlantic Isles NEW! 23 Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal 24 Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean 25 Cruising the Aegean: Turkey and the Greek Isles NEW!

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THE AMERICAS Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage NEW! A Voyage Along the Great Lakes Panama and Costa Rica by Sea Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes

ANTARCTICA 33 Antarctica: The White Continent

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ASIA & THE PACIFIC Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW! New Zealand’s North and South Islands by Sea NEW!

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AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST Cruising from Morocco to Spain’s Andalusian Coast Cruising the Arabian Coast

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MORE RESOURCES The PONANT Fleet Calendar

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Our Alliance with PONANT The Smithsonian/PONANT Difference — Names You Can Trust For more than half a century, the Smithsonian Institution has offered travelers opportunities to immerse themselves in other cultures and discover the world’s natural history through diverse itineraries led by top-notch experts and guides.

With PONANT, we’ve taken the Smithsonian travel experience to the seas, offering voyages that are enriching, deeply rewarding, and designed to suit a range of interests.

Travel With Our Experts Our travelers tell us one of their favorite aspects of our journeys is the fun and engaging learning at the core of every trip. Much of this is provided by our world-class experts who bring meaningful enrichment and insider perspectives.

On each Smithsonian/PONANT departure, you will enjoy the companionship and knowledge of two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, who will provide an insightful onboard lecture series that imbues your experience with new perspectives. As you travel together, you’ll have plenty of chances to engage with your experts during informal conversations, at meals, and while exploring the sites.

Commitment to Sustainability Smithsonian Journeys is committed to sustaining the character and biodiversity of the places we visit by selecting partners and suppliers who meet our standards for responsible travel and supporting regional economies. PONANT was founded in 1988 by officers in the French Merchant Navy to offer high-end, small-ship cruises with a deep commitment to sustainable travel. This commitment is evident in their innovative, CLEANSHIP-certified vessels, designed to minimize impact on the ocean environment, but also in day-to-day operations, in which eliminating single-use plastics and reducing waste are a priority.

Small Ships and Big Experiences The PONANT ships are designed to accommodate just 184 to 264 guests.

On shore excursions, you’ll explore in small groups so that you can get up close to sites and experiences. The smaller ship size also allows PONANT to follow best practices for ecologically responsible tourism.

Each Departure Includes: • Two Smithsonian Journeys Experts • An included shore excursion or activity in each port of call—often with a choice of excursions • Airport transfers to and from the ship on cruise embarkation and disembarkation days • All meals aboard ship, as well as welcome and farewell cocktail receptions aboard ship • Complimentary open bar and free Wi-Fi aboard ship • Gratuities to ship personnel, porters, guides, and drivers

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Supporting the Smithsonian Mission When you travel with Smithsonian Journeys, your participation supports Smithsonian’s mission to shape the future by preserving natural and cultural heritage, advancing research, and sharing our resources with the world.

Reserve your Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT cruise now.

Book online or call one of our cruise specialists at

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Life on Board Aboard the PONANT fleet, you’ll experience the refined elegance of an intimate ship with a relaxed, informal ambiance. Accommodating just 184 to 264 guests, these nimble ships can access small ports, narrow waterways, and remote destinations, while providing guests attentive and personalized service.

The French ambiance is palpable on board from the decor of the inviting lounges and common spaces to the delicious cuisine. You’ll unpack once and set off on an unforgettable adventure with like-minded travelers, enjoying a range of amenities, enlightening lectures, and discussions that give you ample food for thought.

Fine Dining Dining is an art form aboard the PONANT fleet. The chefs draw from French culinary heritage as well as traditions in your destination to create inspired dishes using fresh ingredients procured at your ports of call. French favorites such as Ladurée macarons, butter made in Brittany, and a superb list of wines can be enjoyed in gracious dining rooms or alfresco on deck.

Accommodations The staterooms and suites aboard the ships are spacious, bright, and tastefully decorated. Large windows offer panoramic sea views and most staterooms feature balconies, as well as king size or twin beds, stylish en suite bathrooms, and amenities including 24-hour room service.

Leisure and Wellness You’ll have many choices for places to unwind on board. From cozy nooks to expansive lounges that open to the outdoors, and from the well-stocked library to the theater, each ship has a variety of welcoming common spaces. Onboard spas offer a range of treatments as well as a salon and a fitness center. And, depending on the ship, you can relax even more deeply in a sauna, hammam, or mineral bath.

Reserve your Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT cruise now.

Book online or call one of our cruise specialists at

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Sanjaya’s lectures were informative and fun and he was always available when we had questions.

- Smithsonian Journeys Traveler

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Travel with Our Experts

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Smithsonian Journeys Experts are scholars from around the world who have an in-depth understanding of their fields, whether it’s history and culture, the fine arts, geology, or the natural world. They are eager to share their passion, knowledge, and insights about the places you visit together— through fascinating lectures and during casual conversations over a meal or on tour. Our travelers continue to tell us that our experts are a major reason they come back to Smithsonian Journeys again and again. Meet some of our experts below, and visit our website to learn more about them.

1 Jonathan Øverby is a lyric baritone, conductor, and ethnomusicologist.

He has traveled and researched global roots music extensively abroad, including the traditional folk music of Scotland. For more than 30 years, he has dedicated his life’s work to performing, teaching, researching, and celebrating diverse genres of music.

Jonathan will join our Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage—see page 10.

Nadieszda Kizenko teaches Russian and East European history at the State University of New York at Albany, exploring the intersection of nations and empires, history and culture, and the role of religion in national and imperial identity. Nadia’s research, supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Social Sciences Research Council, and the National Council for Eurasian and East European Research, has allowed her to publish widely on questions of religion and empire. Nadia will join Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea—see page 15.

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3 Sanjaya Thakur is a professor of classics at Colorado College, where he also holds the Judson Bemis Professorship in the Humanities. He was the director of the Classical Summer School at the American Academy in Rome and an Elizabeth A. Whitehead Distinguished Scholar at the American School of Classical Studies in Athens. Sanjay has published numerous articles on the age of Augustus, Rome’s first emperor, and teaches subjects ranging from classical history to ancient athletics.

Sanjaya will join Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean—see page 24.

Nick Pyenson is curator of fossil marine mammals in the Department of Paleobiology at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. He has collaborated with scientists on every continent on prominent discoveries and published several books about whales. Nick is a National Geographic Explorer, a Kavli Fellow at the National Academies of Sciences, and the recipient of prestigious awards including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. Nick will join Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage—see page 26.

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Carrie Weaver is a research affiliate at the University of Pittsburgh who specializes in Mediterranean archaeology with a focus on funerary art and architecture and burial practices. She has excavated in Pompeii and Sicily and analyzed ancient human remains from Rome, Sicily, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Carrie has authored and edited several books on bioarchaeology, human transformation, and ancient Greece. Carrie will join our Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba—see page 20.

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Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain, Le Bellot, or Le Lapérouse

8 days from $6,880* / June 15–22, 2024 & May 30–June 6, June 21–28, July 4–11, 2025† Uncover the legacy of ancient civilizations from prehistory to the Vikings as you sail from Norway’s fjord-carved coast to the far-flung Shetland and Orkney Islands to the Scottish Highlands.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Glasgow, Scotland: Arrive in Glasgow and settle into your cabin in the afternoon. Set sail along the western coast of Scotland.

Day 2 — Scottish Highlands: Spend the day immersed in the beauty of the legendary Scottish Highlands. Take a scenic drive along lovely lochs, passing beneath Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom; and cruise the legendary Loch Ness. Alternatively, visit the Glenfinnan monument, view the locks of Neptune’s Staircase, and enjoy a tour and tasting at the Ben Nevis Distillery.

Day 3 — Isle of Skye: Discover the island on your choice of excursions. Visit Armadale Castle and its award-winning Museum of the Isles, as well as Eilean Donan Castle; or explore the Trotternish Peninsula with its traditional cottages, the Museum of Island Life, and Dunvegan Castle.

Isle of Skye

Day 4 — Orkney Islands: Set out to explore the archaeological treasures of the Orkneys, including the Ring of Brodgar, the third largest stone circle in the British Isles. See the ceremonial Stones of Stenness and visit the settlement of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe.

HIGHLIGHTS • Cruise through Norwegian fjords to the glaciers of continental Europe’s largest ice cap, and take a spectacular train journey on the Flåm Railway.

• Venture to the remote Shetland Islands and discover the 5,000-year-old ruins of Jarlshof, delve into local culture, or hike the Island of Mousa.

• Discover ancient sites in the Orkneys, from the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae to the Ring of Brodgar.

• Experience the mystique of the Isle of Skye, exploring Armadale Castle or the Trotternish Peninsula; and cruise legendary Loch Ness.

North Atlantic Ocean

Olden

Shetland

NORWAY

Orkney

Flam Lerwick

Stromness Kyle of Lochalsh Fort William

GLASGOW UNITED KINGDOM 10

BERGEN

Day 5 — Shetland Islands: Dock in Lerwick and journey to the archaeological site of Jarlshof, which reveals 5,000 years of human history. Then see breeding puffins, guillemots, and fulmars on the coast. Alternatively, take a walking tour of Lerwick, including the award-winning Shetland Museum and Archives, or ferry to the wildliferich Island of Mousa for a hike.

Day 6 — Olden, Norway: Arrive in picturesque Olden, perched at the end of a fjord. Choose to walk along Stryn Lake and then ride a cable car to the top of Mount Hoven. Or enjoy a scenic drive to Briksdal Glacier, and approach the glacier by electric “troll car.” Take a walk to the blue-hued face of the glacier and learn about the geological forces that keep the ice in constant motion.

Day 7 — Flåm: Board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent journey on the steepest standard‑gauge railway track in Europe. Navigate tunnels and switchbacks with ever-changing views of waterfalls, mountain hamlets, and snowcapped mountains; and make a brief stop at Kjosfossen waterfall.

Day 8 — Bergen: Disembark in Bergen and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a one-night extension in Bergen and/or a two-night extension in Edinburgh. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †All 2025 departures follow a slightly modified itinerary and the July 2025 departure runs in the reverse direction.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the June 2024 departure are geologist and writer Wayne Ranney and Jonathan Øverby, an ethnomusicologist, lyric baritone, and conductor. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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London to Lisbon: Cruising Europe's Western Shores Aboard the 184-guest Le Lapérouse

10 days from $6,640* / Aug. 30–Sept. 8, 2025 Experience centuries of history from the Roman era to the D-Day landings as you voyage along the coasts of England, France, Spain, and Portugal.

ITINERARY

Days 1 & 2 — London, England/English Channel: Arrive in London and settle into your cabin. Be on deck as you cruise the River Thames in the evening. Enjoy talks as Le Lapérouse plies the English Channel toward France.

Day 3 — Caen or the Normandy Beaches, France: Delve into the medieval history of Caen on a guided tour, or set out on an excursion to the Normandy beaches where Allied soldiers made their dramatic landing on D-Day. Days 4 & 5 — Saint-Malo or Mont St. Michel/At Sea: Arrive in Saint-Malo and discover its dramatic history on a tour of the walled city. Enjoy a concert of medieval and Celtic music and a tasting of local cider. Or visit the World Heritage site of Mont St. Michel, a fortified abbey perched on a tidal island. Enjoy the ship’s amenities and onboard lectures during a day at sea.

HIGHLIGHTS

Day 6 — Bilbao, Spain: Dock in Bilbao. Explore this dynamic city, from the avant-garde Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to the Old Town, where Renaissance and baroque buildings coexist with modernist architecture.

• Venture to the World Heritage site of Mont St. Michel or the walled city of Saint-Malo, and visit Normandy D-Day beaches.

Day 7 — A Coruña: Go ashore at A Coruña, a major shipping port that dates back to the age of the Phoenicians. Here, encounter the Tower of Hercules, the only Roman lighthouse still in use—built by Emperor Trajan and now a World Heritage site.

Day 8 — Vigo/Santiago de Compostela: Journey through Galicia to its World Heritage-listed capital of Santiago de Compostela. Take a walking tour and enjoy free time in this pilgrimage site before lunch at the Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos, commissioned in 1501 to welcome pilgrims.

Day 9 — Porto, Portugal: In Porto, see stunning azulejos (painted tiles) at the medieval cathedral, stroll through historic Ribeira to Dom Luis I Bridge, and enjoy a tasting at a traditional port cellar. Or take a guided architecture tour of the Church of São Francisco and the neoclassical Stock Exchange.

Mont St. Michel

• Admire the architecture of Bilbao, from Gothic and baroque buildings to Frank Gehry’s Iconic Guggenheim Museum.

• Explore Santiago de Compostela, and enjoy lunch in the 16th-century Hostal de Los Reyes Catolicos.

• Discover historic Porto on a walking tour, and visit a port cellar to sample the city’s renowned port wine.

UNITED KINGDOM LONDON

Day 10 — Lisbon: Disembark in Lisbon and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a two-night extension in Lisbon. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky.

Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Caen Saint-Malo

FRANCE

North Atlantic Ocean La Coruña Vigo

SPAIN

Bilbao

Leixões

PORTUGAL LISBON

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Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

9 days from $7,040* / May 21–29, 2024 & May 4–12, 2025† Discover historic castles, local lore, and breathtaking landscapes on a cruise from London along the southern coast of England, north to Ireland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland’s Hebrides.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — London, England: Arrive in London and embark the ship, sailing out of the city on the River Thames.

Day 2 — Dover: Take a tour of Dover Castle, whose underground tunnels were used during World War II. Alternatively, set out on an excursion to the medieval pilgrimage town of Canterbury, made famous by Chaucer’s tales, and visit its World Heritage-listed cathedral on a walking tour. Or go for a walk atop the famous White Cliffs of Dover, taking in sweeping views.

Day 3 — Isle of Wight: Discover the Isle of Wight, once the haunt of Charles Dickens and other literary greats. Visit the Osborne House, an opulent mansion left much as it was when Queen Victoria passed away here in 1901.

Day 4 — Isles of Scilly: Cruise to the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago of more than a hundred isles off the southwest tip of Cornwall. Visit Tresco Abbey Gardens to see some of the rare plants and flowers that flourish on these islands, or set off on a wildlife cruise on the lookout for rare Atlantic gray seals and sea birds.

Day 5 — Kinsale, Ireland: From the fishing village of Kinsale, embark on one of several excursions in the dynamic university town of Cork. Visit an 18th-century fort and prison in Cork Harbour before a city tour. Or enjoy a tasting tour of the Jameson Distillery before visiting the city highlights.

Giant's Causeway

HIGHLIGHTS • Soak up the lively spirit of Cork, visiting its fortress and its historic old town, or enjoying a tasting tour at the nearby Jameson Distillery.

• Visit Caernarfon Castle in Wales, or meander among rare plants from around the world at Bodnant Garden.

• Trace history in Belfast at the Titanic Belfast Museum, or venture to Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

• Experience the Scottish Hebrides, from Iona to the Isle of Mull.

Iona

Kinsale

Tobermory

GLASGOW

Add a two night post-tour extension in the Scottish Highlands or a one-night pre-trip extension in London (2025). *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Holyhead

UNITED KINGDOM LONDON Cowes

Isles of Scilly 12

Day 7 — Belfast, Northern Ireland: In Belfast, see the stately buildings of the city center, cross Queens University to the Botanic Gardens, and tour the Titanic Belfast Museum. Enjoy a pint and traditional dance, stories, and songs in a local pub; or follow Northern Ireland’s coast to its famous sites: Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, the World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway, and Dunluce Castle.

Days 8 & 9 — Iona and Isle of Mull, Scotland/Glasgow: On the island of Iona, where Christianity was established in Scotland in AD 563, tour Iona Abbey.

Then board a ferry to the Isle of Mull. Delve into the fascinating history of Clan Maclean at Duart Castle, and explore the charming port of Tobermory. Disembark in Glasgow and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Belfast

IRELAND

Day 6 — Holyhead, Wales: Arrive in Holyhead and travel to North Wales, a cradle of Celtic culture where Welsh remains the mother tongue. In the foothills of Snowdonia, visit Bodnant Garden during the bloom of spring. Or take a guided tour of Caernarfon Castle, one of four northern Welsh castles built by Edward I that have been collectively designated a World Heritage site.

Dover

†The May 2025 departure follows a slightly different order. See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the May 2024 departure are Miriam Davis, an expert in early British history, and Carol Ann Lloyd, a speaker and author who specializes in early modern history. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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HIGHLIGHTS • Explore the mystical Snaefellsnes Peninsula, from its black-pebble beaches to the iconic peak of Kirkjufell.

• Cross the Arctic Circle on a visit to the birdwatcher’s paradise of Grimsey; and in the Westman Islands, see still-warm lava fields, puffin colonies, and beluga whales.

• Encounter spectacular waterfalls and see geological forces in action.

• Discover the rugged Westfjords, learning about the local way of life in remote villages and the town of Isafjördur.

Grímsey

North Sea

Isafjördur Akureyri Grundarfjördur

ICELAND

REYKJAVÍK Heimaey Gullfoss waterfall

Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

8 days from $8,320* / June 15–22, 2024 & July 21-28, 2025† Encounter Iceland’s thrilling geological extremes—from glaciers to still-warm lava fields—on a voyage to remote fjords, waterfalls, volcanic islands, and dramatic landscapes imbued with mythology.

ITINERARY

Day 6 — Isafjördur: In the stunning and rugged Westfjords region, hear a performance of traditional Icelandic folk songs and visit the Isafjördur Maritime Museum. Alternatively, visit the abandoned village of Hesteyri to learn its history.

Days 1 & 2 — Reykjavík, Iceland/Heimaey: Board the ship in Reykjavík and sail toward the Westman Islands. On Heimaey, encounter Viking farmhouses, a puffin nesting ground, and see the world’s youngest island. Alternatively, spend the afternoon at the world’s first beluga whale sanctuary.

Days 7 & 8 — Golden Circle/Reykjavík: Set out for the sites of the Golden Circle: the World Heritage site of Thingvellir National Park; the two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall; and Geysir, a steaming geothermal area. Alternatively, enjoy a whale-watching cruise. The next day, disembark and transfer to the airport.

Day 3 — Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Discover natural wonders across this stunning peninsula, from a black-pebble beach to the pointed peak of Kirkjufell. Or set out on a whale-watching excursion.

Add a half-day extension to the Blue Lagoon (2024) or a three-night extension to Iceland's interior (2025).

Day 4 — Grimsey: Iceland’s northernmost inhabited island, Grimsey is bisected by the Arctic Circle. Set out to explore its lush, emerald hills and encounter thriving populations of seabirds, including puffins that come to nest on the island’s basalt cliffs.

Day 5 — Akureyri and Lake Myvatn: Visit the geothermal field of Namaskard, full of bubbling mud pots, steam vents, boiling springs, and fumaroles; and stroll among the surreal lava formations of Dimmuborgire. Stop at Godafoss, the “waterfall of the gods,” or enjoy the Icelandic tradition of soaking in natural thermals baths.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The July 2025 departure follows a slightly different itinerary. See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the June 2024 departure are astrophysicist Michelle Thaller and Elisabeth Ward, an expert in Scandinavian literature. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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HIGHLIGHTS • Venture deep into the fjord lands to spectacular Geirangerfjorden, and sail Lysefjorden to see iconic Pulpit Rock.

• Step into history at the Viking site of Ullandhaug, the oil town of Stavanger, and the 17th-century ironworks at Arendal.

• Admire art nouveau architecture on a city tour of Alesund, and meander among the wooden houses of picturesque Tvedestrand.

• Delve into lively Gothenburg, Sweden, visiting the city’s world-renowned Museum of Fine Art or the Volvo Museum, where every model since 1927 is on display.

Alesund Geiranger / Hellesylt Olden

NORWAY BERGEN OSLO Stavanger

Lysefjorden Arendal

North Sea

SWEDEN Göteborg

Cruising Geirangerfjord, Norway

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain or Le Bellot

8 days from $7,494* / July 20–27, 2024 & June 27–July 4, 2025† Sail into the heart of the Norwegian fjord lands, discovering Viking settlements, historic towns, and extraordinary landscapes of jeweltoned waterways and staggering peaks.

ITINERARY Day 1 — Bergen, Norway: Arrive in Bergen, the gateway to Norway’s fjords, and embark the ship this afternoon.

Day 2 — Alesund: Explore Alesund on a walking tour of the city’s art nouveau architecture, a visit to the Atlantic Ocean Park to learn about local marine life, or a guided outing by electric bike.

Day 3 — Geiranger and Hellesylt: Cruise into the World Heritage site of Geirangerfjorden and take a scenic drive to the Jostedal Glacier National Park Centre. Or follow Eagle’s Road through the mountains to a turf-roofed farm and enjoy a goat cheese tasting.

Later, visit the Geiranger Fjord Centre and spend free time exploring Hellesylt.

Day 4 — Olden: Arrive in Olden, your base for exploring nearby glaciers. Choose an easy hike to a viewpoint over Kjenndalen Glacier, and ride a cable car up Mount Hoven for spectacular views. Or take a scenic drive to Briksdal Glacier and walk beneath its face.

Day 5 — Stavanger and Lysefjorden: Explore the Viking site of Ullandhaug and the historic oil port of Stavanger. Alternatively, join a guided Nordic walking excursion or hear a recital at Utstein Monastery. Sail the Lysefjorden to breathtaking Pulpit Rock.

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Day 6 — Arendal: In Arendal, take a guided tour of the fascinating Naes Ironworks Museum. Stroll through charming Tvedestrand, where there is a bookshop on nearly every corner.

Day 7 — Gothenburg, Sweden: Take a panoramic tour of this lively Swedish city, and join a guide at its world-renowned Museum of Fine Arts and the Fürstenburg Gallery. Or visit the Volvo Museum, which features every Volvo model as well as the latest concept cars.

Day 8 — Oslo, Norway: Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a one- or two-night extension in Bergen; or a one-night extension in Oslo (2025). *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The June 2025 departure runs in the reverse direction and follows a slightly different itinerary. See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the July 2024 departure are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Terje Leiren, a professor emeritus of Scandinavian studies and history. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

HIGHLIGHTS • Explore two World Heritage-listed medieval old towns: Tallinn and Visby—on the Swedish island of Gotland.

• Meet Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa and take a walking tour of historic Gdansk, where he led Poland’s Solidarity movement.

• Discover the cliff-top Hammershus Castle and visit round churches and artisan workshops on the Danish island of Bornholm.

• Delve into the world-class capitals of Stockholm and Copenhagen.

FINLAND

Helsinki

SWEDEN Tallinn

STOCKHOLM Baltic Sea Visby

DENMARK COPENHAGEN Gudhjem

ESTONIA

Klaipeda

LITHUANIA

Gdansk

POLAND

Copenhagen

Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d'Urville or Le Lapérouse 8 days from $8,314* / July 18–25, 2024 & Aug. 13–20, 2025† Sail from Stockholm to the World Heritage site of Tallin, the Polish port of Gdansk, and beyond, discovering rich Baltic cultures shaped by Vikings, Hanseatic merchants, and 20th-century political movements.

ITINERARY Day 1 — Stockholm, Sweden: Arrive in Sweden’s magnificent “Venice of the North” and embark the ship. Be on deck as you cruise through the scenic Stockholm archipelago.

Day 2 — Helsinki, Finland: Stand on deck as the ship approaches Helsinki for a view of Suomenlinna, an 18th-century maritime fortress and a World Heritage site. You may choose to take a ferry to Suomenlinna for a guided tour.

Day 3 — Tallinn, Estonia: Explore Tallinn’s World Heritagelisted Old Town on a walking tour before embarking on a choice of activities in the city. Alternatively, delve into Estonia’s 20th-century history with a tour of Maarjamäe Palace.

Day 4 — Visby, Gotland, Sweden: Discover the walled Hanseatic town of Visby, photograph sweeping views from the Gallow Hill, and visit the renowned Gotland Museum and the botanical gardens.

Day 5 — Klaipeda, Lithuania: Stroll among half-timbered houses in seaside Klaipeda and enjoy a performance of traditional Lithuanian songs. Or, visit a cultural center that showcases Lithuania’s 20th-century history and venture to the countryside to visit a family-owned bee farm.

Day 6 — Gdansk, Poland: Meet with former Polish president Lech Walesa for a personal perspective on the history-making Solidarity movement, and take a walking tour of historic Gdansk.

Day 7 — Bornholm, Denmark: Spend today on the island of Bornholm, once a Viking stronghold. Choose to explore cliff-top Hammershus Castle, the fishing village of Allinge, a glassblowing workshop in Gudhjem, or the Østerlars round church.

Day 8 — Copenhagen: Disembark after breakfast and fly home.

Add a one- or two-night extension in Stockholm or Copenhagen. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The August 2025 departure follows a slightly different order, beginning in Helsinki. See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the July 2024 departure are Professor of Russian and East European History Nadia Kizenko and Hugh Neighbour, a former diplomat with expertise in history, culture, and current affairs. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily: Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville or Le Dumont-d'Urville 8 days from $7,510* / Sept. 8–15, 2024 & Aug. 27–Sept. 4, 2025† Venture to seven World Heritage sites as you sail from Malta to Tuscany and savor local gastronomy through vineyard visits, tasting tours, and cooking classes.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Valletta, Malta: Arrive in the World Heritage site of Valletta and board the ship. Take in the views as you cruise out of the city’s spectacular harbor.

Day 2 — Syracuse, Sicily, Italy: Visit the Greek and Roman theaters in the World Heritage-listed archaeological park of Ancient Syracuse, and enter the Ear of Dionysius cave. Visit the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum or enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch at a family-owned agriturismo. Alternatively, stop at a local winery; take a walking tour of Ortigia; or admire the Sicilian baroque architecture of Noto.

Day 3 — Taormina, Sicily: Set out on a guided walking tour of Taormina and discover the town's cathedral, Palazzo Corvaja, and the Greek theater. Or travel to Mount Etna to see its inactive volcanic craters and enjoy a tasting tour and lunch at a mountainside winery. Instead, embark on a foodie tour of Catania, sampling Sicilian specialties.

Day 4 — Calabria: In Reggio Calabria, at the tip of Italy’s toe, admire the Riace Bronzes at the National Archaeological Museum of Magna Grecia.

Visit ancient Scilla and the seaside village of Chianalea, or learn about the culturally significant bergamot at the Museum of Bergamotto. Take a cooking lesson, enjoy wine tasting and Calabrian dishes at Cantine Tramontana, or venture to historic Pizzo to try its world-famous tartufo.

Taormina shop

HIGHLIGHTS • Encounter Sicily’s Greco-Roman treasures, enjoy lunch at an agriturismo, and sample wines on the slopes of Mount Etna.

• Discover the lesser-known region of Calabria, Italy, exploring charming seaside villages and sampling Calabrian specialties like tartufo.

• Enjoy cuisine designed by Chef Denny Imbroisi, a top Italian chef who will join the September 2024 departure.

• Trace history in ancient Pompeii and on a VIP visit to the Roman Colosseum.

Day 7 — Rome: Embark on a walking tour from the Trevi Fountain to the Piazza Navona. After lunch, see the Roman Forum and enjoy a VIP visit to the Colosseum. Or begin the day at the Colosseum before a pizza-making workshop or a guided foodie tour. Alternatively, experience the Vatican and enjoy a specially arranged visit to the Renaissance Gardens.

Add a one- or two-night extension in Malta or a two-night extension in Tuscany.

Civitavecchia Naples Agropoli Mediterranean Sea di Taormina Reggio Calabria Sicily Syracuse

16

Day 6 — Naples, Pompeii, or Sorrento: Dock in Naples and discover the haunting ruins of Pompeii, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Continue your tour at Herculaneum, or enjoy lunch paired with volcanic wines at a vineyard on Mount Vesuvius. Alternatively, choose a pizza-making lesson at a working farm in the hills above Sorrento before touring Pompeii; or explore Naples’ historic center and discover its famous street food.

Day 8 — Livorno: Disembark in Livorno and transfer to the airport.

ITALY LIVORNO

VALETTA

Day 5 — Agropoli and Paestum: Sail to Agropoli and travel to the World Heritage site of Paestum, home to three well-preserved Greek temples.

Explore the site and its museum, or combine a tour of the temples with a visit to a traditional dairy farm. Learn about age-old cheese-making techniques and sample the farm’s world-renowned mozzarella.

MALTA

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The August 2025 departure is 9 days and follows a slightly modified itinerary.

See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the September 2024 departure are Al Leonard, an archaeologist and expert in culinary arts and wine, and Maureen Fant, an Italian food expert.

Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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A Circumnavigation of Sicily Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

9 days from $7,420* / June 2–10, Aug. 29–Sept. 6, 2025

Set sail from Malta to voyage all the way around Sicily, encountering captivating towns from Palermo to Taormina, simmering volcanoes, and important Greco-Roman archaeological sites from Agrigento to Syracuse.

ITINERARY

Days 1 & 2 — Valletta, Malta and Agrigento, Sicily, Italy: Embark the ship in Valletta and take in views of one of Europe’s loveliest harbors. Dock on Sicily’s southern coast and travel inland to the World Heritage site of Agrigento. Here, seven remarkably preserved temples built in the fifth and sixth centuries BC line a picturesque ridge in the Valley of the Temples. Take a guided tour and see artifacts at the Museum of Agrigento.

Day 3 — Tunis, Tunisia: Sail to the capital of Tunisia, and head out on an excursion to the ancient ruins of Carthage, a city founded by the Phoenicians in the ninth century BC. Meander the picturesque blue-and-white lanes of Sidi Bou Said, or gaze upon stunning Roman mosaics at the Bardo Museum.

Day 4 — Trapani: Anchor in Trapani and choose from three excursions.

Visit the ancient city of Segesta and venture to medieval Erice to see its two iconic castles. Spend the day in Trapani and Marsala, visiting the salt pans and enjoying lunch and a marsala tasting at a local winery. Or walk amid the ruins of temples more than 2,000 years old at Selinunte.

Day 5 — Palermo: In Palermo, focus on unique Arab-Norman architecture on a tour of the mosaic-clad Capella Palatina and the cathedral of Monreale.

Or delve into the city’s gastronomy on a visit to the local market and a tasting of street food. Alternatively, venture to the medieval port town of Cefalù for a walking tour.

Day 6 — Lipari and Stromboli: Just north of Sicily lie the Aeolian Islands.

Go ashore on the main island of Lipari and visit a museum to see artifacts discovered on the archipelago. Or tour a local winery to learn how both ancient and traditional methods are used to make wine, and enjoy a tasting. In the evening, glide by the island of Stromboli where glowing lava can often be seen sliding down the slopes of an active volcano.

Day 7 — Taormina, Sicily: From the beautiful town of Taormina, set out on a guided walking tour and visit the Greek theater or peer into the crater of Mount Etna and sample wines over a typical Sicilian lunch at a farm on its slopes.

Days 8 & 9 — Syracuse/Valletta, Malta: Your final stop is Syracuse, an ancient city once so powerful it rivaled Athens and Rome. Explore the archaeological park and see the Ear of Dionysius cave, or choose to travel to Noto to admire its Sicilian baroque architecture. Experience the wonders of the island of Ortigia in the afternoon. The next day, disembark in Valletta and transfer to airport.

Palermo

HIGHLIGHTS • Sail out of the spectacular harbor of Valletta, and visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.

• Explore superb archaeological sites from the ancient cities of Carthage and Syracuse to the ruins at Segesta or Selinunte.

• Discover the World Heritage-listed ArabNorman sites of Palermo or sample the city’s renowned street food.

• Taste volcanic wines on Mount Etna and on Lipari, and watch for glowing lava during a night cruise past Stromboli.

ITALY

Trapani

Add a two-night extension in Malta. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the August departure are art historian Gary Radke and Andrew Becker, an expert in the cultures, literatures, and languages of ancient Rome. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Palermo

Stromboli Lipari

Sicily Porto Empedocle

Syracuse

Tunis

TUNISIA

Taormina

Mediterranean Sea

VALLETTA MALTA

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HIGHLIGHTS • Venture to the medieval walled towns of Carcassonne and Lucca, and opt to visit the historic hilltop gems of Eze and Volterra.

• Discover the World Heritage sites of Arles and Avignon, or soak up the charms of Aix-en-Provence, the home of Paul Cézanne.

• Explore the French and Italian Rivieras, and ride a local boat to the villages of Cinque Terre.

• Trace the legacy of great artists, from van Gogh in Provence and Matisse in Nice to Michelangelo and Brunelleschi in Florence.

FRANCE Sète

Portofino

Nice Marseille

SPAIN

ITALY Porto Venere Livorno

CIVITAVECCHIA

BARCELONA Mediterranean Sea Manarola, Cinque Terre

Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea Aboard the 184-guest Le Lapérouse 8 days from $5,990* / Oct. 2–9, 2025 Sail the length of France’s southern coast to Italy, exploring Provence, the Côte d’Azur, the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre, and Tuscany; and stop in Corsica to explore the cliff-top town of Bonifacio.

ITINERARY Days 1 & 2 — Barcelona, Spain and Carcassonne, France: Arrive in Barcelona and embark the ship. Sail to Sète, France, and travel inland to the fortified medieval city of Carcassonne to tour this fairy-tale World Heritage site.

Day 3 — Marseille and Provence: Anchor in Marseille, France’s oldest city, and journey into Provence on your choice of excursions.

Tour the elegant university town of Aix-en-Provence, home of Émile Zola and Paul Cézanne. Alternatively, visit Roman sites and trace the steps of Vincent van Gogh in Arles, or continue along the Rhône to Avignon to explore the extraordinary Papal Palace.

Day 4 — Nice, Eze, or Monte Carlo, Monaco: Sail the Côte d’Azur to Nice, and enjoy a city tour and a wine tasting.

Alternatively, tour chic Monte Carlo and the hilltop town of Eze, or journey to St. Paul de Vence and visit the Maeght Foundation.

Day 5 — Portofino, Italy and the Italian Riviera: Cruise past the elegant resort towns that dot the rugged shores of the Italian Riviera.

Anchor in the picturesque fishing village of Portofino, and take a walking tour of its winding lanes, lined with houses painted in warm hues.

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Day 6 — Cinque Terre or Lucca and Pisa: Take in views of the five tiny villages known as the Cinque Terre on a private boat ride from Porto Venere and visit two of the villages; or travel into Tuscany to discover the walled town of Lucca and visit Pisa.

Day 7 — Florence or Volterra: Immerse yourself in the spectacular Renaissance city of Florence, encountering some of its most iconic artistic treasures. Or ascend to Volterra and visit Roman ruins and the excellent Etruscan Museum.

Day 8 — Civitavecchia, Italy: Follow the coast south and disembark in Civitavecchia. Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a two-night extension in Barcelona or a two-night extension in Rome. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include art and architectural historian Stephen Clancy. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville or 264-guest L'Austral 8 days from $5,810* / July 16–23, 2024 & June 18–25, 2025†

Trace the legacy of ancient empires on an eight-day cruise, exploring numerous World Heritage sites as you follow the spectacular Adriatic coast to the legendary ports of Venice, Hvar, Dubrovnik, and more.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Venice, Italy: Arrive in the World Heritage site of Venice and board the ship this afternoon.

Day 2 — Hvar, Croatia: Discover Hvar Town on a walking tour that includes the Franciscan Monastery, the Venetian Loggia, and the Benedictine Cloister.

Learn about Hvar lace, crafted by local nuns out of agave fibers. Or head into the interior on a scenic drive to the Hora Estate. Meet a local lavender grower and learn about the history of lavender cultivation on Hvar.

Day 3 — Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Ston, Croatia: From Ploce, head inland to Mostar in the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Venture into the World Heritage-listed Old Town, and see the storied Stari Most, a graceful Ottoman bridge that was famously destroyed during the Bosnian War. Alternatively, travel to the walled town of Ston to enjoy a walking tour of the Croatian town, sample local specialties, and enjoy a tasting at a winery.

Day 4 — Dubrovnik, Croatia: Set on a rocky spur on the Adriatic Sea, the walled city of Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities.

Enjoy a full day to discover its important sites, from Sponza Palace and the Cathedral of the Assumption to the oldest pharmacy in Europe.

Day 5 — Kotor, Montenegro: Enter Montenegro’s spectacular Bay of Kotor and explore the World Heritage-listed old town of Kotor. On a walking tour, visit the Lapidarium to see centuries-old stone sculptures and monuments that were rescued from earthquakes and wars.

Day 6 — Sarandë, Albania: Arrive in Sarandë and choose to tour the World Heritage site of Butrint, where Byzantine and Venetian monuments intermingle with Greek and Roman ruins on a stunning peninsula. Or stay in Sarandë to visit Lekursi Castle, take a walking tour, and enjoy a wine-tasting.

Day 7 — Itea and Delphi, Greece: Dock in Itea and venture to the World Heritage site of Delphi, once considered the sacred center of the Greek world.

Or tour the Byzantine St. Lucas Monastery and continue to Arachova, on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, to get a sense of local life. Back on board the ship, cruise the narrow Corinth Canal, a rare and thrilling highlight.

Day 8 — Athens: Disembark at Piraeus and transfer to the Athens airport.

Dubrovnik

HIGHLIGHTS • Immerse yourself in Hvar’s historic towns and lavender farms, and enjoy a full day in the walled city of Dubrovnik.

• Sail beneath towering peaks in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, and tour the historic town of Kotor.

• Uncover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Butrint in Albania.

• Cruise through the Corinth Canal, and discover the ancient ruins of Delphi.

VENICE

Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Venice (2024), a four-night pre-tour extension in Italy (2025), or a one- or two-night post-tour extension in Athens. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The June 2025 departure follows a slightly modified itinerary. See website for details.

CROATIA Hvar

ITALY

Ploce Dubrovnik Kotor

MONTENEGRO ALBANIA

Saranda Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the July 2024 departure are journalist Jim Laurie and art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Corinth Canal Itea

GREECE

ATHENS

19

HIGHLIGHTS • Ride a local boat into stunning grottoes along the limestone sea cliffs of Corsica, or set off into medieval Bonifacio on a walking tour.

• Tour the baroque treasures of Cagliari, Sardinia and visit Napoleon’s villa in exile on rugged Elba.

• Discover spectacular Greco-Roman ruins in ancient Syracuse and Taormina, or enjoy a Sicilian lunch and wine tasting at a winery on Mount Etna.

• Admire the Arab-Norman architecture of Palermo or venture to medieval Cefalù for a walking tour.

FRANCE

NICE

Corsica Bonifacio

Portoferraio

ITALY

Sardinia Cagliari Mediterranean Sea

Palermo

Sicily Taormina Syracuse

VALLETTA

MALTA

Bonifacio, Corsica

Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

8 days from $6,480* / May 26–June 2, 2025 Uncover layers of history as you cruise to the islands of the central Mediterranean, encountering Greco-Roman treasures, medieval fortresses, and Napoleon's villa in exile.

travel to the spectacular cathedral of Monreale. Alternatively, tour the Palazzo Conte Federico and stroll through an open-air market, or explore the medieval port of Cefalù.

ITINERARY

Day 6 — Taormina: Experience charming Taormina on a guided walking tour that includes the Greek theater—still in use today.

Or journey to Mount Etna to see its inactive volcanic craters and enjoy a Sicilian lunch and a tasting at a winery.

Day 1 — Nice, France: Arrive in Nice and board the ship.

Day 2 — Portoferraio, Elba, Italy: Dock in Portoferraio and visit Villa San Martino, Napolean’s summer residence during his brief exile on the island. Continue to the charming fishing village of Porto Azzurro, then travel to a traditional wine farm to sample local wines, cheeses, and charcuterie.

Day 3 — Bonifacio, Corsica, France: Drop anchor at the fortress town of Bonifacio, perched on cliffs high above the sea. Set off into the labyrinthine streets of the medieval Citadel, visiting historic landmarks by foot and by mini train. Or ride a local boat along the coast to Lavezzi Island, venturing into magnificent grottoes and coves.

Day 4 — Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy: Sail into the harbor at Cagliari and set out to tour Sardinia’s rose-colored capital city from its baroque palazzi to its hilltop fortress. Take in views from Monte Urpino, then explore the ancient port of Nora and learn about the innovative waterworks designed here thousands of years ago.

Day 5 — Palermo, Sicily: In Palermo, discover a unique blend of influences in the city’s Arab-Norman architecture. Admire the mosaics in the Norman cathedral, visit the Capella Palatina, then 20

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Day 7 — Syracuse: Cruise to the once-powerful ancient city of Syracuse and tour its Greek and Roman amphitheaters. Venture into the Ear of Dionysius cave, and see Greco-Roman artifacts. Or choose to visit Noto, known for its Sicilian baroque architecture. Later, delve into the mythology of the island of Ortigia.

Day 8 — Valletta, Malta: Sail into Valletta’s beautiful harbor before disembarking the ship. Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a two-night extension in Nice and/or a two-night extension in Malta. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include Mediterranean archaeologist Carrie Weaver. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca Aboard the 264-guest L'Austral

8 days from $5,340* / Oct. 3–10, 2025 Sail across the western Mediterranean from Sicily to the Spanish coast, discovering medieval, classical, and prehistoric sites amid the engaging towns and stunning limestone landscapes of Sardinia and the Balearic Islands.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Valletta, Malta: Arrive in Valletta, a World Heritage site known for its golden-hued baroque architecture. Settle into your cabin and take in the view as the ship cruises out of the beautiful harbor.

Day 2 — Trapani, Sicily: Dock in Trapani and set out on your choice of excursions. Explore the picturesque hilltop village of Erice; encounter ancient Greek monuments at Segesta; delve into Trapani’s 2,000-year-old saltworks; take a walking tour of Marsala and sample its namesake dessert wine; or enjoy the views from the Acropolis of ancient Selinunte.

Day 3 — Palermo: Discover Palermo’s unique, 12th-century Arab-Norman architecture, recognized as a World Heritage site. Tour the Capella Palatina and travel to the Norman cathedral of Monreale, or admire the Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio Monreale, delve into Palermo’s celebrated gastronomy at a historic food market, and meet the contessa at the Palazzo Conte Federico before a tasting of local specialties. Or, choose to explore the medieval port town of Cefalù.

Day 4 — Cagliari, Sardinia: Sail into the harbor at the rose‑colored capital city of Cagliari and ascend to the impressive hilltop fortress. Take in views from Monte Urpino, then journey to ancient Nora, a thriving port under the Carthaginians and the Romans. On a tour of the ruins, learn about the innovative waterworks designed thousands of years ago. Alternately, stroll past the baroque palazzi and churches of Cagliari and visit the Archaeological Museum.

Day 5 — At Sea: Make your way across the western Mediterranean, taking advantage of the ship’s superb amenities and joining your Smithsonian Journeys Experts for lectures and informal discussions.

Day 6 — Menorca, Spain: The easternmost of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Menorca is edged in beautiful beaches and rocky coves and harbors the ruins of a Bronze Age civilization. Take a walking tour of the lovely town of Mahón, and learn about the island’s history at the Menorca Museum. Venture to Torralba d’en Salord to explore its unusual megalithic ruins.

Day 7 — Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca: During a day on Mallorca, step into history on a tour of Palma de Mallorca, the cosmopolitan capital of the Balearics. Admire the Catalan Gothic architecture of the magnificent sandstone Palma Cathedral, constructed over 300 years beginning in 1230. Also visit the Fundacio Miro.

Day 8 — Tarragona/Barcelona: Disembark in Tarragona and extend your stay in Barcelona or depart for the Barcelona airport.

Add a two-night extension in Valletta and/or a two-night extension in Barcelona. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Valletta, Malta

HIGHLIGHTS • Visit the historic saltworks of Trapani, Sicily, or meander through the medieval lanes of hilltop Erice.

• Delve into Palermo’s centuries-old markets on a tasting tour and encounter the city’s World Heritage-listed Arab-Norman architecture.

• Experience Cagliari, Sardinia from its baroque palazzi to its hilltop fortress, and explore the remarkable ruins of ancient Nora.

• Explore intriguing Bronze Age ruins on Menorca, and step into history amid the medieval monuments of Palma de Mallorca.

TARRAGONA SPAIN Mahon Palma de Mallorca Balearic Islands

ITALY

Sardinia Cagliari Trapani

Palermo Sicily

VALLETTA MALTA Mediterranean Sea 21

Lisbon to the Canary Islands by Sea: Spain, Morocco, and the Atlantic Isles Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

14 days from $9,020* / Oct. 26–Nov. 8, 2025 On a voyage along the southern shores of Iberia to the isles of the eastern Atlantic, encounter a fascinating range of cultures, sites, and geography. Explore Lisbon’s picturesque hills and the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve, the historic cities of Andalusia and the souks of Morocco. Then take to the open Atlantic, sailing to the spectacular volcanic landscapes of Madeira and the Canary Islands.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 — Lisbon and Lagos, Portugal: Arrive in Lisbon and embark the ship. Tour the Tower of Bélem and the Monument to the Discoveries, and visit the renowned Gulbenkian Museum. Sail south to the stunning Algarve, and ride a local boat to the astonishing Benagil Cave or visit the cliff-top Fortress of Henry the Navigator. Alternatively, take a walking tour of Lagos and stop for a wine tasting.

Day 4 — Cadiz and Seville, Spain: Dock in Cadiz and continue overland to Seville. Visit the Real Alcázar and the Gothic cathedral—both part of a World Heritage site—and enjoy an Andalusian tapas lunch and a stroll through the picturesque Barrio de Santa Cruz district. Or stay in Cadiz for a guided walk followed by a flamenco performance and a tapas lunch.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Day 5 — Tangier or Tetouan, Morocco: Sail to Tangier, an ancient city on the Strait of Gibraltar. Visit the Tangier American Legation Museum and learn about local heritage at the Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures. Or travel to Tetouan to tour its World Heritage-listed medina.

HIGHLIGHTS • Explore caves, cliffs, or fortresses on Portugal’s Algarve coast, and see the World Heritage sites of Seville.

• Venture into the enchanting medinas of Rabat and Tetouan or tour the museums of Tangier and Casablanca’s stunning Hassan II mosque.

• Dock in Madeira, discovering the island’s lush valleys, fishing villages, and terraced vineyards on a variety of excursions.

• Visit four of the Canary Islands, encountering massive craters and soaring peaks, landscapes recently forged by lava, and charming towns.

PORTUGAL LISBON SPAIN Lagos

Atlantic Ocean Madeira Funchal

Casablanca Canary Islands

Santa Cruz Santa Cruz de Tenerife Arrecife de Lanzarote de La Palma La Gomera

LAS PALMAS

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Cadiz

Tangier

MOROCCO

Day 6— Casablanca or Rabat: In Casablanca, see the new medina (or Habous district) and the impressive Hassan II Mosque. Or spend the day in the World Heritage site of Rabat, exploring the Royal Palace, the Mohamed V Mausoleum, Hassan Tower, and the picturesque kasbah.

Days 7–9 — At Sea/Funchal, Madeira, Portugal: Take to the open sea, listening to talks by our experts and enjoying the ship’s amenities. Arrive in Madeira, the capital of Funchal. Ride a cable car from the hillside village of Monte and admire exotic species at the Botanical Gardens before a tasting of Madeira wines. Alternatively, follow the gorgeous coast to fishing villages and Europe’s highest cape; or take a walk through lush valleys along 19th-century irrigation channels.

Days 10–14 — Canary Islands, Spain: Explore four of the Canary Islands.

On La Palma, choose from a variety of excursions that showcase magnificent volcanic formations and local culture. Explore natural treasures hidden within the mountains of Tenerife or tour the World Heritage site of San Cristóbal de La Laguna and learn about local wine-making traditions. Encounter geothermal wonders at Timanfaya National Park on Lanzarote or delve into art and culture at the Fundacíon Cesar Manrique. Discover the mountainous beauty of the island of San Sebastian de la Gomera. Disembark the next day in Las Palmas. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include Allen Fromherz, professor of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern history. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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HIGHLIGHTS • Admire the architecture of Seville, from the Gothic cathedral to the 14th-century Mudéjar Alcázar to the charming homes of the old Jewish quarter.

• Take a tour of the Alhambra in Granada, and meander through Generalife Palace and Gardens.

• Immerse yourself in the beauty of Mallorca, an island of idyllic coves, soaring limestone cliffs, and almond orchards; and delve into history in Palma de Mallorca.

• Savor paella at a local restaurant in Valencia, and explore the city’s modernist Mercado Central, a gastronomic hub.

BARCELONA

SPAIN PORTUGAL LISBON Lagos

Valencia

Marbella Cadiz Málaga

Palma de Mallorca Balearic Islands Mediterranean Sea

Atlantic Ocean

Alhambra gardens

Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal Aboard the 184-guest Le Lapérouse 9 days from $6,960* / Sept. 16–24, 2025 Follow the Iberian coast from the southern shores of Spain to Lisbon, exploring captivating cities and World Heritage‑listed architecture in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Granada, and Seville.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Barcelona, Spain: Arrive in Barcelona and embark the ship this afternoon.

Day 2 — Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands: Anchor in Mallorca and tour the cosmopolitan capital of the Balearic Islands and see the Catalan Gothic architecture of the Palma Cathedral.

Days 3 & 4 — Valencia/At Sea: On a walking tour of this architectural hub, see paintings by Goya and Maella at the cathedral, and explore the World Heritage-listed La Lonja de la Seda and the modernist Mercado Central. After a paella lunch, visit the City of Arts and Sciences, designed by the Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. Enjoy the ship’s many amenities during a day at sea.

Day 5 — Málaga and Granada: From Málaga, travel to the former Moorish stronghold of Granada. Visit the royal chapel, final resting place of Ferdinand and Isabella. Then experience the exquisite palaces and courtyards of the magnificent Alhambra, a World Heritage site, and visit the beautifully landscaped Generalife Palace and Gardens.

Day 6 — Marbella and Ronda: Visit the whitewashed old town of Marbella and a see a collection of sculptures by Salvador Dalí.

Or travel to the World Heritage site of Ronda, built atop a deep

gorge, and delve into the twisting streets of its Moorish-influenced historic center.

Day 7 — Cadiz and Seville: Dock in Cadiz and travel to Seville, the capital of Andalusia. Here, visit two World Heritage sites: the Real Alcázar and the Cathedral of Seville, and enjoy a tapas lunch.

Alternatively, enjoy a walking tour of Cadiz followed by a flamenco performance.

Days 8 & 9 — Lagos, Portugal/Lisbon: From the port town of Lagos, set out to discover the stunning Algarve coast. Tour the Old Town, visit the stunning rock formations and caves of Ponta da Piedade, and enjoy a tasting of local wines. Or travel to Sagres on Cape St. Vincent, to learn about the legacy of Prince Henry the Navigator. Disembark in Lisbon after breakfast the next morning.

Add a two-night extension in Lisbon or Barcelona. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include Dianne Konz, an expert in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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HIGHLIGHTS • Explore the World Heritage site of Patmos and the Greek Orthodox Monastery of St. John.

• Uncover layers of history on Rhodes, discovering the legacy of ancient Greeks, Romans, and the knights of the Crusades.

• Cruise into the spectacular natural caldera of Santorini and opt to sail a catamaran or visit the village of Oia. • Meander among the ruins of Delos, the mystical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and enjoy an afternoon at leisure on Mykonos.

GREECE ATHENS

Nafplion

Mykonos Patmos Delos Amorgos Santorini

Rhodes

Aegean Sea

Mykonos

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d'Urville

8 days from $5,940* / July 6–13,† Oct. 12–19, 2025 Set sail on the Aegean Sea, exploring World Heritage sites from Patmos to Delos and visiting gem-like isles in two island groups: the Dodecanese and the Cyclades, plus the Peloponnese Peninsula.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Athens, Greece: Arrive in Athens, board the ship, and set sail on the Aegean Sea. Day 2 — Patmos: In Patmos, set out on a tour of the Monastery of St. John, and discover its incredible collection of Byzantine art.

Continue to the Cave of the Apocalypse and see the grotto where St. John is said to have received the visions of the apocalypse.

Day 3 — Rhodes: Rhodes bears evidence of the ancient Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans, and Venetians who occupied the island over the centuries. Take a walking tour that includes the Street of the Knights, or travel to Lindos to visit the hilltop Acropolis and its Temple of Athena.

Day 4 — Santorini: Make sure you’re on deck as the ship sails into the breathtaking Santorini caldera. Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri; sail a catamaran and go for a hike; or explore the whitewashed, cliff-top village of Oia. Day 5 — Amorgos: On rugged and beautiful Amorgos, meet monks at an 11th-century monastery and take a guided tour of picturesque Chora. Or walk through olive groves and see a demonstration of a traditional olive press. Visit a typical Cycladic home to learn the age-old practice of distilling essential oils.

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Day 6 — Delos and Mykonos: Your guided visit to the World Heritage site of Delos includes the Sanctuary of Zeus and Athena, the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Terrace of the Lions, and the amphitheater.

Spend the afternoon on Mykonos, where windmills, sugar-cube houses, and azure bays epitomize the beauty of the Greek Isles. You may wish to stop in an ouzeri to nibble mezethes and sip ouzo.

Day 7 — Nafplio or Mycenae and Epidaurus: Dock in Nafplio and visit the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae, home to the legendary Lion Gate and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Then explore Epidaurus and visit its renowned theater. Or choose to stay in Nafplio and take a walk before visiting a wine shop for a sampling of local specialties.

Day 8 — Athens: Disembark in Athens and transfer to the airport.

Add a two-night extension in Athens. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The July 2025 departure follows a slightly different route. See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the July departure include Sanjaya Thakur, an expert in the classics. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Cruising the Aegean: Turkey and the Greek Isles Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville 8 days from $6,060* / Apr. 15–22, 2025 Legends of the classical world come to life as you voyage along Turkey’s western coast and across the Aegean, exploring ancient wonders from Troy to Mycenae and soaking up the charms of the Greek Isles.

ITINERARY

Days 1 & 2 — Istanbul, Turkey/Troy or Gallipoli: Board the ship in Istanbul and sail across the Sea of Marmara. The next day, go ashore at Canakkale to explore the ruins of ancient Troy, site of the famous siege that was finally broken by the Trojan Horse. Alternatively, cross the Dardanelles by local boat and drive to Gallipoli National Park, site of the World War I battlefield where Ataturk’s forces defeated the Allies in 1915. Visit Allied and Turkish cemeteries at Anzac Cove, and tour the Gallipoli War Museum.

Day 3 — Kusadasi and Ephesus: Dock in Kusadasi and drive to the World Heritage site of Ephesus, once home to the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Tour this beautifully preserved site, including the vast Library of Celsus and the working theater, known for its excellent acoustics.

Walk the Sacred Way, where traces of an innovative water and sewer system are still visible, and visit the Terrace Houses, equipped with running water and heating systems and decorated with frescoes and mosaics.

Day 4 — Patmos, Greece: Your first port of call in the Greek Isles is Patmos, the rugged island to which St. John the Theologian was banished. Tour the Monastery of St. John, and view its impressive collection of Byzantine art. Venture into the Cave of the Apocalypse to see the grotto where St. John is said to have received the visions of the Apocalypse that later became the Book of Revelation.

Day 5 — Santorini: Enter the spectacular Santorini caldera and explore the island’s ancient past at the archaeological site of Akrotiri and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. Alternatively, sail a catamaran to the volcanic isle in the center of the caldera, and go for a hike; or visit the cliff-top village of Oia and enjoy a wine tasting.

Day 6 — Delos and Mykonos: Discover the World Heritage site of Delos, the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and one of the most sacred places in the ancient Greek world. View the magnificent Terrace of the Lions and tour the 5,500-seat theater. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on Mykonos, with free time to explore the island’s iconic windmills and sugar-cube houses.

Days 7 & 8 — Nafplio/Mycenae and Epidaurus/Athens: Anchor in the lovely Peloponnese port of Nafplio. Tour Mycenae, the Bronze Age capital of King Agamemnon, and see the fabled theatre of Epidaurus; or stay in Nafplio for a walking tour that includes the Folkloric Foundation, the intimate Komboloi Museum, and a tasting at a local wine shop. Disembark in Athens the following morning and transfer to the airport.

Library of Celsus, Ephesus

HIGHLIGHTS • Step back in time in the iconic ancient cities of Ephesus, Mycenae, and Troy.

• Trace the exile of St. John the Theologian on the World Heritage site of Patmos, and visit the Cave of the Apocalypse.

• Spend a day on stunning Santorini, visiting ancient Akrotiri, sailing a catamaran in the caldera, or sampling wines in cliff-top Oia. • Gain insight into Greek mythology on the sacred island of Delos, and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore Mykonos.

ISTANBUL Canakkale

Add a three-night pre-tour extension in Istanbul and/or a two-night post-tour extension in Athens. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

GREECE ATHENS Nafplion

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include archaeologist David Price Williams.

Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Aegean Sea

TURKEY

Mykonos Delos

Kusadasi Patmos

Santorini 25

A humpback breaching

Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage Aboard the 264-guest Le Soléal

9 days from $6,650* / July 5–13, July 20–28, 2024 Includes one-way air from Sitka to Seattle

Set sail on Alaska’s Inside Passage on a small-ship voyage from Vancouver to Sitka, discovering majestic scenery and an intriguing cultural mosaic as you explore dramatic fjords, icebergs and glaciers, bays teeming with whales and dolphins, and the enduring traditions of Alaska Native communities.

ITINERARY Day 1 — Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada: Arrive in the vibrant city of Vancouver and embark the ship, setting sail on the Strait of Georgia this evening.

Day 2 — Johnstone Strait: Follow Johnstone Strait along the shores of Vancouver Island, watching for wildlife. This deep, glaciercarved channel is home to the world’s largest pod of resident orcas, as well as salmon, baleen whales, and harbor seals.

Day 3 — Alaska’s Inside Passage: Enter the Inside Passage this morning, on the lookout for Dall’s porpoises, bald eagles, and humpbacks. Your first port of call is Metlakatla, a native Tsimshian settlement. Visit with local residents to learn about the culture’s rich

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artistic heritage, and take in a traditional performance by Tsimshian dancers.

Day 4 — Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska: Explore the magnificent Misty Fjords National Monument, where waterfalls tumble over near-vertical cliffs, splashing thousands of feet to the sapphire fjords below. Be on the lookout for brown bears on the rugged shores, and watch for orcas and harbor seals.

Day 5 — Petersburg: Visit Petersburg, a charming fishing village only accessible by small boats. View ancient petroglyphs left by the native Tlingit people and witness a traditional dance. Go hiking in Tongass National Forest, a 17-million acre wilderness that harbors glaciers and the world’s largest temperate rainforest.

Day 6 — Kake and Endicott Arm: In the ancient village of Kake, view one of the largest totem poles in the world. With luck, observe black bears fishing for salmon at a nearby creek. Cruise the narrow fjord of Endicott Arm, which ends in the arctic-blue ice of Dawes Glacier.

HIGHLIGHTS • Search for humpback whales feeding off the ship’s bow and brown bears foraging for their next meal.

• Delve into the region’s diverse cultural heritage, learning about the native Tsimshian and Tlingit peoples.

• Navigate among spectacular icebergs at the foot of Dawes Glacier.

• Walk through Sitka National Historical Park, where trails are lined with intricately carved totem poles.

Point Adolphus Elfin Cove Endicott Arm Kake Petersburg

SITKA

Metlakatla Inside Passage

North Pacific Ocean

Day 7 — Point Adolphus and Elfin Cove: As the ship rounds Point Adolphus, be on deck to observe the humpbacks that come to feed in the rich waters here. In Elfin Cove, a local resident joins you on board to discuss everyday life in this remote fishing outpost.

Days 8 & 9 — Sitka and Seattle, Washington: Set out on a local boat to explore the wildlife-rich islands surrounding Sitka or take a walk through town, visiting craft shops and the oniondomed St. Michael’s Cathedral. Meander among historic totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park, or visit the Alaska Raptor Center.

The next day, transfer to the airport for your charter flight to Seattle, where you’ll connect with your flight home.

Flight Seattle

Misty Fjords

ALASKA Johnstone Strait

VANCOUVER CANADA

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the July 20 departure are Nick Pyenson, curator of fossil marine mammals at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, and Jim Zimbelman, senior geologist emeritus at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Visit our website for more details.

Add a five-night extension in the Canadian Rockies and/or a four-night extension in Denali. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

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Niagara Falls

A Voyage Along the Great Lakes Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

8 days from $7,650* / Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 11–18,† 2024 & Sept. 17–24, 2025 Experience the Great Lakes in their summer or autumn splendor, exploring the islands and coasts of Ontario and Michigan and discovering natural wonders and historic sites from Georgian Bay to Mackinac Island.

ITINERARY Day 1 — Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Arrive in Toronto and settle into your cabin. Set sail on Lake Ontario in the evening.

Day 2 — Niagara Falls and Lake Erie, U.S.: Transit the Welland Canal to Port Colborne for a visit to Niagara Falls, a group of three waterfalls that straddle the border between Ontario and New York.

Board a specially designed vessel for an exhilarating ride to within feet of Horseshoe Falls, the largest and most powerful of the three falls. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruising Lake Erie.

Day 3 — Detroit and St. Clair River: Sail through Detroit, taking in panoramic views of the skyscrapers of the former “Motor City,” and admire Ambassador Bridge, which spans the river—and two countries. Cruise the St. Clair River, used by French fur traders in the 18th century to facilitate trade with American Indian tribes, on the way to Lake Huron.

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Day 4 — Lake Huron: Parry Sound and Georgian Bay, Canada: One of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Huron separates Michigan’s Upper Peninsula from Ontario and offers a variety of coastal landscapes. Dock in Parry Sound and set out on a cruise aboard the Island Queen among the Thirty Thousand Islands of Georgian Bay—the largest freshwater archipelago in the world.

Or opt to take a nature walk in Killbear Provincial Park, a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve, and learn about the area’s flora and fauna on a visit to the visitor center.

Day 5 — Manitoulin Island: On Manitoulin Island, learn about the area’s First Nations heritage at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation; see traditional crafts being made and take part in a cleansing ritual.

Or choose to hike to the highest point on the island for incredible views before sampling a selection of local wines, beers, and cheeses.

Alternatively, go kayaking on the upper Kagawong River, walk to the viewing platform for Bridal Veil Falls, and stop at a family-owned business for a coffee and chocolate tasting.

Day 6 — Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, U.S.: Located on the northern coast of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Here, embark on one

HIGHLIGHTS • Cruise into the spray of Niagara Falls, and transit a 1,377-foot lock on the Welland Canal.

• Navigate the Thirty Thousand Islands of Georgian Bay by boat, or discover the unusual geology of Killbear Provincial Park.

• Go hiking on Manitoulin Island, kayak through wetlands on Kagawong River, or visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.

• Tour the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum or Museum Ship Valley Camp in Sault Ste. Marie, and explore timeless Mackinac Island.

CANADA

Sault Ste. Marie Mackinac Island

Little Current Lake Huron

Parry Sound

TORONTO MILWAUKEE Lake Michigan of two excursions: take a scenic drive to Tahquamenon Falls State Park for a visit to the stunning Upper Falls for a walk.

Continue to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum to learn about the maritime history of the area, and visit the lightkeeper’s quarters Whitefish Point Light Station. Or experience the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks, and visit the Museum Ship Valley Camp to learn about the maritime history of Lake Superior.

Day 7 — Mackinac Island and Lake Michigan: Step back in time on tiny Mackinac Island, a former fur trading center that retains an atmosphere of yesteryear. Tour the historic island by horse-drawn carriage, viewing its Victorian-style buildings and iconic Grand Hotel. Then explore the museum of Fort Mackinac before an afternoon sail on Lake Michigan.

Port Colborne Lake Erie

UNITED STATES Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the August 2024 departure are maritime history author Frederick Stonehouse and geology and oceanography professor Katryn Wiese. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Day 8 — Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Disembark in Milwaukee and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The October 2024 departure runs in the reverse direction.

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HIGHLIGHTS • Make a full daylight transit of the Panama Canal, one of the greatest wonders of engineering in history.

• Visit the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center on a special tour guided by Smithsonian staff.

• Explore World Heritage-listed Darién National Park, and visit a village of the indigenous Emberá people to learn about their rich culture.

• Go snorkeling among coral reefs in Panama’s remote San Blas Islands.

Caribbean Sea

COSTA RICA PUNTARENAS Quepos

COLÓN

Fuerte Amador

PANAMA

San Blas Islands Panama Canal Playa Muerto Darien National Park

Pacific Ocean Panama Canal locks

Panama and Costa Rica by Sea Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

8 days from $6,054* / Jan. 6–13, 2025 Delve into the tropical forests of Panama and Costa Rica and cross the legendary Panama Canal, learning about Smithsonian’s scientific studies in the region as you explore a range of pristine ecosystems.

ITINERARY Day 1 — Colón, Panama: Embark the ship in Colón, and sail east along Panama’s coast.

Day 2 — San Blas Islands: Enjoy a day to explore the San Blas Islands, governed by the indigenous Kuna people. Stroll the long white sand beaches, and go swimming and snorkeling.

Day 3 — Panama Canal: Today, set off on a journey that inspired the imagination of many 20th-century adventurers: a daytime transit of the Panama Canal. This marvel of engineering was completed by the United States and opened in 1914. Delve into the dramatic history of its construction and engineering as you pass through three levels of locks.

Day 4 — Playa Muerto, Darién National Park: Venture into the World Heritage site of Darién National Park, where indigenous peoples live among extraordinary landscapes. Ride Zodiacs to Playa Muerto, a small coastal village of the Emberá people, and meet the chief for an introduction to his timeless culture.

Day 5 — Panama City: Enjoy a full-day excursion that includes a guided tour of the Biomuseo, designed by architect Frank Gehry, 30

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and a walking tour in the charming colonial district or in Panama Viejo. Then take an exclusive tour of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center, an open-air museum dedicated to marine science and conservation.

Day 6 — At Sea: Enjoy a day to relax at sea, taking advantage of the ship’s superb amenities.

Days 7 & 8 — Quepos, Costa Rica and Puntarenas: After docking in Quepos, explore stunning Manuel Antonio National Park, where the rainforest borders a pristine white beach. Or choose to take a mangrove boat ride or a float trip down the Savegre River. The next day, disembark the ship in Puntarenas and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a three-night extension in Costa Rica. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include Hugh Neighbour, a former diplomat with expertise in history, culture, and current affairs.

Visit our website for more details on our experts.

HIGHLIGHTS • Experience Dominica, the Caribbean’s Nature Island on a hike to spectacular viewpoints, a boat ride on the Indian River, or a tour and tasting at a family-owned chocolate factory.

• Go island-hopping in the mostly uninhabited French archipelago of Les Saintes, watching for wildlife and swimming and snorkeling.

• Take a jeep tour of Bequia in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, or sail a catamaran around neighboring islands.

• Swim and snorkel or dive off the tiny island of Mayreau and in Tobago Cays Marine Park.

GUADELOUPE Caribbean Sea

Les Saintes Portsmouth

DOMINICA

SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Port Elizabeth, Bequia Mayreau Tobago Cays

SAINT LUCIA VIEUX FORT Bridgetown

BARBADOS

GRENADA

Saint George's

The Pitons, St. Lucia

Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

9 days from $5,780* / Jan. 30–Feb. 7, 2025 Sail across the spectacular Windward Islands, exploring rainforests, snorkeling reefs, and encountering history and culture from Dominica to St. Vincent and the Grenadines to Barbados and beyond.

ITINERARY Day 1 — Vieux Fort, St. Lucia: Arrive in St. Lucia and board the ship in Vieux Fort.

Day 2 — Portsmouth, Dominica: Explore the Caribbean’s Nature Island on a variety of excursions. Hike the Syndicate Nature Trail, view the cacao farms on the northeastern coast and enjoy a tour and tasting at a sustainable chocolate factory, or watch for wildlife as you cruise among the mangroves of enchanting Indian River.

Day 3 — Les Saintes, Guadeloupe: Go sailing on a local boat amid the islands known as Les Saintes, and stop to swim and snorkel.

Alternatively, take a guided tour of Fort Napoléon and Marigot Bay. Day 4 — Bequia Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Discover Bequia on a jeep tour, exploring picturesque Port Elizabeth, the ruins of 18th-century Hamilton Fort, and the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary. Or set off on a catamaran and drop anchor off a tiny island to snorkel and swim.

Days 5–7 — Mayreau Island, Grenada, and Tobago Cays: During a day on tiny Mayreau, swim, stroll the beach, snorkel, or dive among the reefs; and enjoy a beach barbecue lunch.

Discover Grenada, the Isle of Spice, on an island tour, a visit to Grand Etang National Park, or a snorkeling excursion at an underwater sculpture park. Continue to Tobago Cays Marine Park for snorkeling and swimming among vibrant marine life within its fringing reef.

Days 8 & 9 — Bridgetown, Barbados and Vieux Fort, St. Lucia: Arrive in Bridgetown, the World Heritage-listed capital of Barbados, known for its colonial architecture. Go snorkeling and swimming among sea turtles or take a historical tour of the island. Toast your Caribbean adventure with a glass of the island’s famous rum. The next day, disembark in St. Lucia and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Add a two-night extension in St. Lucia. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts The experts on this cruise include field geologist and geophysicist Carola Stearns. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

12 days from $11,450* / Oct. 18–29, 2024 & Oct. 1–15, 2025† Explore unique cultures rooted in Old Europe as you follow the St. Lawrence River through Québec and continue along the Canadian Maritimes, experiencing worldclass cities and stunning islands illuminated by fall foliage.

ITINERARY Days 1 & 2 — Toronto, Ontario, Canada and St. Lawrence River: Arrive in Toronto and board the ship. Spend the next day enjoying the ship’s many amenities and attending lectures by your Smithsonian Journeys Experts.

Days 3 & 4 — Montréal & Québec City, Québec: On a walking tour of Old Montréal, admire the ornate interior of the Notre-Dame. Alternatively, take in sweeping city views from Parc du Mont-Royal and set out on a street art tour.

Sail to Québec City and enjoy a stroll.

Day 5 — Tadoussac: The salty, rich waters near Tadoussac draw 13 cetacean species that come to feed from May to October. Visit the Marine Mammal Interpretation Center for a closer look at the local marine life, then set out in Zodiacs on a whale-watching excursion.

Québec City

HIGHLIGHTS • Experience Montreal and Québec with expert guides, soaking up their Old World charm and vibrant contemporary culture.

• Go whale watching in Tadoussac, and see the natural wonders of Percé.

• Get acquainted with French-derived Acadian culture on the remote Îles de la Madeleine.

• Explore the World Heritage-listed fishing town of Lunenberg.

CANADA Tadoussac

Percé Québec Cap-aux-Meules Saint-Lawrence River Montreal Eastport

TORONTO Lake Ontario

Lunenburg

BOSTON

UNITED STATES

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Atlantic Ocean

Day 6 — Percé: Cruise toward the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and go ashore in the town of Percé. Admire views of the stunning natural arch known as Percé Rock just offshore, or hike the trails of the Percé Global Geopark.

Day 7 — Îles de la Madeleine: Enjoy a cider tasting at a family-owned apple orchard, discover the islands’ Acadian roots at the Musée de la Mer, and take in coastal views from Cap Hérissé Lighthouse. Or hike amid dunes in Pointe de l’Est National Wildlife Area.

Days 8 & 9 — At Sea/Lunenburg, Nova Scotia: Enjoy a relaxing day on the water, watching for marine and birdlife on deck. Spend the next day in the delightful fishing village of Lunenburg, a World Heritage site. Take a walking tour and visit a fishing museum.

Days 10–12 — Eastport, Maine, U.S. and Boston, Massachusetts: Explore the quaint shops and colorful galleries of historic Eastport. Chat with an artist-inresidence at a local museum, admire fall foliage on a scenic hike, or embark on a whale-watching excursion. Gather for a farewell dinner on board, and disembark in Boston on your final morning.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The October 2025 departure is 15 days and follows a modified itinerary. See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the October 2024 departure include naturalist and educator David Catlin. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG/PONANT I 877.338.8687

Antarctica: The White Continent Aboard the 264-guest L’Austral

12 days from $12,960* / Feb. 18–Mar. 1, 2025

Includes a pre-cruise hotel night in Buenos Aires and round-trip air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia Immerse yourself in a magnificent realm of ice on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Antarctica, and encounter astonishing wildlife—from thousands of penguins to breaching whales—on excursions with our naturalists.

ITINERARY

Days 1 & 2 — Buenos Aires, Argentina and Ushuaia: Arrive in Buenos Aires and check into your hotel. The next day, fly to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica.

Enjoy an excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park and discover the park’s flora and sub-Antarctic landscapes with our guides. After lunch, embark the ship and set sail on the Beagle Channel, named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his South American voyages.

Days 3 & 4 — Drake Passage: Cross the legendary Drake Passage, enjoying the ship’s amenities and deepening your knowledge of Antarctica with your Smithsonian Journeys Experts and the team of naturalist guides on board.

Days 5–9 — Discovering the Antarctica Peninsula: Spend four days exploring the outer shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula, where massive glaciers calve icebergs of all shapes and sizes. In this seemingly harsh environment, a vast array of wildlife flourishes, including millions of penguins and seabirds, as well as numerous species of seals and whales. At this time of year, we may get the chance to observe humpback and minke whales, pods of orcas, elephant and leopard seals, giant petrels, and great skuas. Go ashore on volcanic islands to walk among fur seals as well as gentoo and chinstrap penguins and their newly hatched chicks.

Continue further south into the realm of ice, encountering playful Adélie penguins and unusual marine life. Cruise past tabular icebergs that dwarf the ship, ice floes where Weddell seals loll, and icebergs that glow ethereal shades of turquoise.

Along the way, learn about the history of Antarctic exploration, from Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated expedition to the ventures of explorers such as Jean-Baptiste Charcot and Adrien de Gerlache. You may have the chance to visit a research station. Keep in mind that your course is dependent on weather, sea, and ice conditions. Every cruise is unique, and your seasoned captain and crew are experts at making the most of the conditions at hand.

Days 10 & 11 — Drake Passage: Relax and reflect on board as you return across the Drake Passage, keeping an eye out for seabirds and marine life.

Day 12 — Ushuaia and Buenos Aires, Argentina: Disembark in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires to connect with your flight home.

Add a four-night pre-tour extension in Patagonia and/or a two-night post-tour extension in Buenos Aires.

Cruising Antarctica by Zodiac

HIGHLIGHTS • Encounter spectacular polar panoramas, navigating among towering glaciers, lavasculpted mountains, and immense icebergs.

• Observe various species of penguins and watch for breaching whales.

• Enjoy excursions by Zodiac with expert naturalists, maneuvering among icebergs and stepping onto the continent itself.

• Experience the unusual flora of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Buenos Aires

ARGENTINA

USHUAIA Drake Passage

Limited to 200 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts The experts on this cruise are penguin expert and author Dyan deNapoli and Jim Preston, longtime head photographer for the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

South Shetlands

Weddell Sea

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

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Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea Aboard the 264-guest Le Soléal

8 days from $7,970* / May 21–28, 2024 & Apr. 12–20, 2025† Sail the Sea of Japan along the coast of Honshu, exploring lesser-known towns and villages that harbor the hallmarks of Japan’s rich culture: from traditional crafts and Japanese gardens to historic castles and shrines.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Osaka, Japan/Maizuru: Arrive in Osaka and transfer to Maizuru, a port city on the Sea of Japan. Embark the ship late in the afternoon.

Day 2 — Matsue and Yasugi: Encounter a world-class collection of Japanese modern art at the Adachi Museum of Art. Then stroll among blooming peonies at Yushien Garden or explore 17th-century Matsue Castle—one of the few original castles that remain in Japan. Delve into the art of Japanese papermaking, or washi, at a museum dedicated to a master craftsman, and try your hand at this ancient art.

Or get immersed in brilliant blossoms at the Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park and visit Kotobuki-jo, a “castle of sweets.” Set sail for Korea this evening.

Days 3 & 4 — Busan or Gyeongju, South Korea/At Sea: In the port city of Busan, visit the seaside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, tour the Busan Museum of Arts, and venture into Jagalchi Fish Market. Attend a traditional Korean tea ceremony at Hongbeopsa Temple. Or spend the day in Gyeongju, cradle of the eighth-century Silla Kingdom. See the royal burial mounds at Tumuli Park and examine Silla artifacts at the Gyeongju National Museum. During a leisurely day at sea, enjoy the ship’s amenities and attend talks by your experts.

Day 5 — Kanazawa or Shirakawa-go, Japan: On a guided tour of Kanazawa, walk through the lively Omicho Market and past the traditional teahouses of the Edo-period geisha district, and meet the artisans at a gold-leaf workshop. Or experience the world-renowned Kenrokuen Garden. Witness an authentic Japanese tea ceremony at the Gyokusen-an teahouse and visit the stunning Nomura Samurai Residence and the Kutani Kosen Kiln. Alternatively, journey to the World Heritagelisted mountain villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama.

Day 6 — Sado Island: Visit the Edo-era fishing village of Shukunegi and the Ogi Folk Museum, and taste rice wine at the 150-year-old Hokusetsu Sake Brewery. Or venture to the northern part of the island to explore Senkaku-wan Bay Ageshima Yuen Park and the Sado Kinzan Gold Mine. Attend an exclusive presentation of taiko drumming by the world-famous drumming group, Kodo.

Day 7 — Sakata and Yamagata: Tour the Honma Museum of Art and view images of post-war Japan at the Ken Domon Museum of Photography; then visit the Sankyo Rice Storehouse. Or discover a 600-year-old pagoda on sacred Mount Haguro and ascend to the thatched shrine of Sanjin Gosaiden. Alternatively, explore Mount Chokai and Tamasudare Falls on a nature walk or visit the Kamo Aquarium.

Day 8 — Hakodate, Hokkaido: Disembark in Hakodate, on Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido, and return home.

Tea ceremony

HIGHLIGHTS • On the May 2024 voyage, enjoy onboard performances throughout the cruise by Reison Kuroda, a master player of the shakuhachi (traditional bamboo flute).

• Dock in Busan, South Korea and discover the city’s markets, museums, and temples; or travel to the World Heritage site of Gyeongju.

• Explore breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, and tour a samurai home and an Edo-period teahouse.

• Learn the art of papermaking or washi; visit a gold-leaf workshop; and sample a sake at a historic brewery.

HAKODATE

Add a four-night extension in Tokyo and Kyoto. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings. †The 2025 departure is 9 days and follows a different itinerary. See website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on the May 2024 departure are John Freedman, an Asian studies expert, and Timon Screech, a historian of Japanese art. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

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Japan Sea

Sakata

SOUTH KOREA Busan

Ogi Kanazawa Sakaiminato

MAIZURU JAPAN

New Zealand’s North and South Islands by Sea Aboard the 184-guest Le Jacques Cartier 10 days from $8,212* / Jan. 7–16, 2025 Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s natural majesty on a voyage from the wildliferich Otago Peninsula to Auckland by way of the magnificent sounds of Fiordland National Park and the traditional homelands of the M ori.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Christchurch, New Zealand: Arrive in Christchurch, known as New Zealand’s Garden City, and board the ship in nearby Lyttelton.

Day 2 — Dunedin: Your first port of call is Dunedin, nestled at the base of the beautiful Otago Peninsula. Set off on a scenic train ride through the Taieri River Gorge; or explore Nature’s Wonder Reserve in a specially designed vehicle, looking for little blue and yellow-eyed penguins as well as breeding colonies of New Zealand fur seals. Alternatively, tour Dunedin, visiting its world-class botanical gardens and taking in the view from Mount Cargill.

Day 3 — At Sea/Dusky and Doubtful Sounds: Enter Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage site known for its dramatic fjords, vertical cliffs, and old-growth forests. Sail into remote Dusky Sound and get a close-up look at wildlife such as the Fiordland crested penguin. Navigate Secretary Island and nearby Thompson Sound, and view the spectacular waterfalls of narrow Doubtful Sound.

Day 4 — Milford Sound: Experience incomparable Milford Sound, which meanders inland between the steep slopes of the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Spend the morning immersed in the sound’s natural majesty, taking in the views from on deck and keeping an eye out for fur seals and an array of native birdlife.

Days 5 & 6 — At Sea/Picton: During a leisurely day at sea, take advantage of the ship’s many amenities. Go ashore at Picton to explore the Marlborough wine region, known especially for its crisp sauvignon blancs. Enjoy tasting tours at three wineries and visit a local chocolate maker. Or view an impressive collection of World War I and II aircraft at the Omaka Heritage Aviation Centre in Blenheim before a visit to a brewery and a confectionery shop.

Day 7 — Napier: On the North Island, delve into the rich culture of the M ori people on a tour of their ancestral lands led by a M ori guide. Take part in a traditional greeting ceremony in the coastal village of Waimarama, and spend time with families, learning about their daily life, music, and age-old customs. Admire the art deco architecture of Napier before returning to the ship.

Day 8 — Whakatane: Dock at Whakatane and head inland on one of two excursions. Encounter colorful mineral springs and geysers in Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and Te Puia; and learn more about M ori culture through craft demonstrations and dances. Or witness truffle-hunting dogs at work at a family-run farm, and sample truffle-infused foods paired with local wine and beer.

Days 9 & 10 — Auckland: Arrive in lovely Auckland and embark on a unique city tour. Or ride the ferry to beautiful Waiheke Island for a tour of several wineries and lunch. Disembark the next day and transfer to the airport.

Add a four-night pre-tour extension in New Zealand’s North Island.

Milford Sound

HIGHLIGHTS • Ride a historic railway through the Taieri River Gorge, or spot penguins and fur seals at a nature reserve on the Otago Peninsula.

• Experience World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, exploring the magnificent Dusky, Doubtful, and Milford Sounds.

• Enjoy a tasting tour in Marlborough wine country, or examine World War I and II aircraft at the Omaka Heritage Aviation Centre.

• Learn about the ancient culture of the Māori, spending time with families, witnessing traditional dances, and taking part in timeless ceremonies.

Tasman Sea

Whakatane

NEW ZEALAND

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise are conservation biologist Lori Blanc and Jim Zimbelman, senior geologist emeritus at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Visit our website for more details on our experts.

AUCKLAND

Napier Picton

LYTTELTON Milford Sound Doubtful Sound Dusky Sound

Dunedin South Pacific Ocean

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HIGHLIGHTS • Explore the ancient medina of Tetouan, a World Heritage site, or delve into local culture in Tangier.

• Take a tour of the Alhambra, Granada’s stunning Moorish palace; and visit the ancient town of Ronda, built dramatically on a cliff top.

• Tour the World Heritage sites of Seville, or enjoy a flamenco performance in Cadiz.

• Sail the Strait of Gibraltar and discover the cliffs and caves of Portugal’s Algarve region.

Marbella, Spain

Cruising from Morocco to Spain’s Andalusian Coast Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

8 days from $5,090* / Apr. 13–20, 2025 As you sail from Casablanca to Spain’s southern coast, delve into the historic medinas of Rabat and Tangier and discover a palpable undercurrent of Moorish culture in the vivacious cities of Andalusia.

ITINERARY

Day 1 — Casablanca, Morocco: Arrive in Casablanca and settle into your cabin aboard the ship.

Days 2 & 3 — Tangier or Tetouan: Sail to Tangier, an ancient city on the Strait of Gibraltar. Visit the Tangier American Legation Museum, a tribute to the long relationship between the U.S. and Morocco, and learn about local heritage at the Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures. Alternatively, choose an excursion to Tetouan and tour its World Heritage-listed medina.

Day 4 — Málaga, Spain and Granada: Spend the morning discovering Granada, seat of the last Moorish kingdom in Spain.

Visit the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, and explore the incomparable palaces and courtyards of the Alhambra.

Day 5 — Marbella or Ronda: Arrive this morning in Marbella.

Visit its whitewashed old town and a see a collection of sculptures

by Salvador Dalí, or travel to Ronda, a World Heritage site built atop a deep gorge. Uncover layers of history amid the twisting streets of its Moorish-influenced center, and see the Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring and one of its most beautiful.

Day 6 — Seville or Cadiz: Anchor in Cadiz and continue overland to Seville. Stroll through the Murillo Gardens and visit the Real 36

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Alcázar, the Gothic Cathedral, and La Giralda bell tower—together considered a World Heritage site. Meander through the charming cobbled lanes of the Barrio de Santa Cruz, the city’s former Jewish quarter. Alternatively, set out on a walking tour of Cadiz’s old town, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Europe, and enjoy a thrilling flamenco performance and a traditional tapas lunch.

Days 7 & 8 — Portimão, Portugal/Lisbon: From the fishing port of Portimão, travel inland to the town of Silves, once the seat of the Moors in Portugal. Visit the Castelo de Silves, a Moorish fortress with imposing red stone walls, and meander along cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses. Continue to the picturesque mountain village of Monchique before heading back to Portimão for free time to explore the stunning Algarve coast. Disembark in Lisbon after breakfast the next morning.

Add three-night pre-tour extension in Morocco or a two-night post-tour extension in Lisbon. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise are Alia Kate, an expert in international relations, and art historian Rafael Chacón.

Visit our website for more details on our experts.

Cruising the Arabian Coast Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville 9 days from $6,765* / Jan. 16–24, 2025 Trace the northern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, discovering world-class cities and ancient cultures, desert islands and dramatic fjords—from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Doha and Muscat.

ITINERARY

Days 1 & 2 — Dubai, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E): Arrive in Dubai and embark the ship. Set out on a guided tour of this boundary-pushing city, from the traditional spice and gold souks to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Visit the Dubai Museum, housed in a historic fort; then delve into Emirati culture at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding and enjoy Bedouin-style lunch.

Days 3 & 4 — Abu Dhabi/Sir Bani Yas: In Abu Dhabi, the capital of the U.A.E, see the impressive exhibitions at the Louvre Abu Dhabi and admire the building’s stunning architecture—designed by Pritzker Prize-winner Jean Nouvel.

Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, home to 82 marble domes and more than a thousand columns inlaid with gemstones; and meander through Masdar City, a planned city that showcases clean-tech solutions and sustainable urban design.

Alternatively, stop in at the Emirates Palace for high tea and a private tour. The next day, set off on a wildlife safari in Sir Bani Yas island and learn about the conservation work being done on a reserve for animals indigenous to the Gulf region and to East Africa.

Days 5 & 6 — Doha, Qatar/At Sea: Delve into dynamic Doha, a burgeoning center of culture and style filled with striking high-rises and age-old souks.

Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, designed by I.M. Pei, and venture into the colorful Souk Waqif, built on the site of an ancient marketplace. Learn about Qatari history and culture at the new National Museum, another architectural marvel. Visit the mecca of architecture and culture known as Katara village and see the glamorous residences of the Pearl-Qatar. Enjoy talks by your Smithsonian Journeys Experts on a day at sea.

Day 7 — Khasab, Oman: Oman’s remote Musandam Peninsula is a place of deep fjords and craggy peaks, with fishing villages perched on the shore. Arrive in the lively town of Khasab, and set out to explore the peninsula in a traditional sailing dhow. Glide into narrow fjords, on the lookout for dolphins.

Day 8 — Fujairah, U.A.E.: In the commercial hub of Fujairah, visit the oldest and largest castle in the Emirates, and learn about its colorful history. Examine archaeological finds in the museum, and visit a mud-and-stone mosque in the oasis of Al Bithnah. Gather for a festive farewell reception and dinner this evening.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

HIGHLIGHTS • Encounter enthralling art, architecture, and design, from the Burj Khalifa and the Louvre Abu Dhabi to I.M. Pei’s Museum of Islamic Art in Doha.

• Venture into the souks of Dubai and Doha, and visit historic forts and mosques in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

• Learn about conservation efforts during a wildlife safari on Sir Bani Yas island.

• Explore the dramatic fjords of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula by traditional sailing dhow.

Day 9 — Muscat, Oman: After breakfast, disembark in Muscat and transfer to Nizwa. Visit the imposing Nizwa Fort and explore Nizwa Souq, one of the oldest in the country. After lunch, return to Muscat for an evening at leisure and dinner before transferring to the airport for your evening flight home.

Add a one-night extension in Dubai or a two-night extension from Muscat. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on the number of staterooms available at the time of printing. See our website for current pricing. Book early for higher savings.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Our experts on this cruise include archaeologist David Price Williams.

Visit our website for more details on our experts.

37

The PONANT Fleet The PONANT fleet perpetuates the travel philosophy of Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT: small-capacity yachts perfect for fostering enriching experiences and a unique ambiance of casual sophistication, well-being, and camaraderie.

The PONANT fleet includes the PONANT Explorers (184 guests each) and the PONANT Sisterships (264* guests each). Each ship shares an elegantly understated aesthetic, as well as European sensibility and craftsmanship.

The staterooms and suites feature panoramic sea views, and almost all feature a private balcony. Life aboard ship is relaxed and refined, and an air of casual sophistication enhances the unique experience of feeling that you are aboard a private yacht.

The new Explorer ships feature a world exclusive: the first ships ever to be equipped with an underwater, multi-sensory lounge, called Blue Eye, located within the hull, eight feet beneath the water line. Two large windows provide views of the underwater marine life, and guests can also hear and sense this life through unique wave technology. *Le Lyrial accommodates 244 guests.

The PONANT Explorers and Sisterships Ship Amenities

Stateroom Amenities

• Two restaurants • Theater • Two lounges with bars • Four spacious deck spaces for passengers • Fitness center, spa, and pool • Shop • Infirmary • Three elevators • Marina • Blue Eye underwater lounge (exclusive to Explorer ships)

• Private balconies (except Superior Staterooms on Sisterships) • A king bed or two twin-size beds • Individually controlled air conditioning • En suite bathroom with bath products, hair dryer, and bathrobes • Direct-dial satellite telephone • Free Wi-Fi • Flat-screen satellite TV • Movies on-demand • iPod™ player, desk, minibar, and safe • 24-hour room service • Butler service for specific suites on Sisterships • Connecting staterooms available

Please see our website for more details, including photo galleries.

Reserve your Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT cruise now.

Book online or call one of our cruise specialists at

877.338.8687 38

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39

DECK 7 SPA

DECK 7 FITNESS SPA

Fitness - Ponant Yacht Spa - Sundeck

DECK 7

FITNESS

DECK 6

SPA

The PONANT Explorers Fitness - Sundeck DECK 7- Ponant Yacht Spa

Le Bellot, Le Bougainville, Le Champlain, DECK 6 Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques Cartier, & Le Lapérouse

Ship Specifications

• Guest capacity: up to 184 passengers • Crew size: 110 • Length: 430 ft/Beam: 59 ft/Draft: 15 ft Fitness - Ponant Yacht Spa - Sundeck • Cruising speed: 12.5 knots FITNESS • Guest decks: 5 Suite Privilege Suite stateroomsOwner’s Deluxe Stateroom ART(including GALLERY / PANORAMIC Panoramic lounge - 14 Deluxe PrestigeSuite staterooms 10 Prestige convertible into 5 Luxury suites) - 2 Deluxe suites - 2 Privilege suites - 2 Grand Delux • Flag: French PHOTO VIDEO LOUNGE DECK 6 Deck 5 Deck 5-6 Deck 3-4-5-6 Deck 3 • Launched: 2018 (Le Champlain & Fitness Ponant Yacht Spa Sundeck Grand Deluxe Suite Prestige Suite Prestige Stateroom Le Lapérouse), 2019 (Le Bougainville Deck 6 Deck 5-6 Deck 4-5-6 DECK 5 & Le Dumont-d’Urville), ART GALLERY / PANORAMIC Panoramic (including 10 Prestige staterooms convertible - 2 Deluxe suites - 2 Jacques PrivilegeCartier) suites - 2 Grand Delux VIDEO LOUNGE into 5 Luxury suites)2020 (Le Bellot & Le DECK 6 lounge - 14 Prestige stateroomsPHOTO FITNESS

ART GALLERY / PHOTO VIDEO

SPA

6

PANORAMIC LOUNGE

BRIDGE

DECK 5

ART GALLERY / PANORAMIC Panoramic lounge - 14 Prestige staterooms (including 10 Prestige staterooms convertible PHOTO VIDEO LOUNGE into 5 Luxury suites) - 2 Deluxe suites - 2 Privilege suites - 2 Grand Delux WC

Bridge - 29 Prestige staterooms (including 1 for person of reduced mobility and 26 Prestige staterooms convertible into 13 Prestige suites) - 1 Deluxe Suite - 2 Privilege su BRIDGE

DECK 5

Panoramic lounge - 14 Prestige staterooms (including 10 Prestige staterooms convertible into 5 Luxury suites) - 2 Deluxe suites - 2 Privilege suites - 2 Grand Delux WC

DECK 4 5

Bridge - 29 Prestige staterooms (including 1 for person of reduced mobility and 26 Prestige staterooms BRIDGE convertible into 13 Prestige suites) - 1 Deluxe Suite - 2 Privilege su

DECK 5 DECK 4

WC RESTAURANT

Bridge - 29 Prestige staterooms (including 1 for person of reduced mobility and 26 Prestige staterooms BRIDGE convertible into 13 Prestige suites) - 1 Deluxe Suite - 2 Privilege su

4

(including 1 for person of reduced mobility) - 1 Deluxe suite Restaurant - 23 Prestige stateroomsWC

DECK 4

RESTAURANT (including 1 for person of reduced mobility and 26 Prestige staterooms convertible into 13 Prestige suites) - 1 Deluxe Suite - 2 Privilege su Bridge - 29 Prestige staterooms

DECK 3 Restaurant - 23 Prestige staterooms (including 1 for person of reduced mobility) - 1 Deluxe suite GRILL DECK 4 RESTAURANT SHOP

3

DECK 3

EXCURSION DESK

MAIN LOUNGE

POOL

Restaurant - 23 Prestige staterooms GRILL RESTAURANT

THEATER

RECEPTION (including 1 for person of DESK reduced mobility) -

WC SHOP

1 Deluxe suite

EXCURSION DESK

Reception Desk - Excursion Desk -feature Main Lounge - Pool Deck Suites - Shopon- Medical Center Theater - 13Suite Deluxe - 1 Deluxe suite NOTE : Le3Champlain and Le Lapérouse three Grand Deluxe Decks 5 & 6, and- one Owner’s on staterooms Deck 6.

MAIN LOUNGE POOL THEATER DECK 40

RECEPTION reduced mobility) - 1 Deluxe suite Restaurant - 23 Prestige staterooms (including 1 for person of SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG/PONANT I 877.338.8687DESK

DECK 2

GRILL

WC SHOP

EXCURSION DESK

The Sisterships

Ship Specifications

L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial, & Le Soléal Owner’s Suite Deck 6

Deluxe Suites Deck 6

Deluxe Staterooms Deck 3

Prestige Suites Deck 4-5-6

Prestige Staterooms Deck 3

Superior Staterooms Deck 3

626 624 622 620 618 616 614 612 610 608

Owner’s suite

GRILL RESTAURANT

POOL

6

• Guest capacity: up to 264 passengers • Crew size: 140 • Length: 466 ft/Beam: 59 ft/Draft: 15.3 ft • Cruising speed: 14 knots • Guest decks: 6 • Flag: French • Launched: 2010 (Le Boréal), 2011 (L’Austral), 2013 (Le Soléal), 2015 (Le Lyrial)

602 Deluxe Suite INTERNET

539 625 623 621 619 617 615 611 609 607 605

603 601 Deluxe Deluxe Suite Suite

PANORAMIC LOUNGE

PANORAMIC TERRACE

LIBRARY

HAMMAM 508 506 504 502

536 534 532 530 528 526 524 522 520 518 516 514 512 510 IMAGE & PHOTO DESK

5

BRIDGE 509

4

539 537 535 533 531 529 527 525 523 521 519 517 515 511

507 505 503 501

434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408

406 404 402

THEATRE 437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401

3

EXCURSION DESK

334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308

RECEPTION DESK

337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309 307 305 303 301 300

306 304 302

MAIN LOUNGE SHOP

NOTE: Le Lyrial features one Owner’s Suite, one Grand Privilege Suite, three Deluxe Suites, one Grand Deluxe Suite, eight Privilege Suites, and one Prestige Stateroom on Deck 6.

41 MARINA

GASTRONOMIC RESTAURANT

Let the Journey Begin Reserve your Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT cruise now. Book online or call one of our cruise specialists at

Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Cruises

877.338.8687

2024–2025 Departures Page

Voyage

Ship

10

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

Le Champlain Le Bellot Le Lapérouse

June 15–22, 2024 May 30–June 6, July 4–11, 2025 June 21–28, 2025

11

London to Lisbon: Cruising Europe's Western Shores

Le Lapérouse

Aug. 30–Sept. 8, 2025

12

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

Le Bellot

May 21–29, 2024; May 4–12, 2025

13

Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

Le Bellot

June 15–22, 2024; July 21–28, 2025

14

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

15

Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

Le Dumont-d'Urville Le Lapérouse

July 18–25, 2024 Aug. 13–20, 2025

16

Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily: Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights NEW

Le Bougainville Le Dumont-d'Urville

Sept. 8–15, 2024 Aug. 27–Sept. 4, 2025

17

A Circumnavigation of Sicily

18

Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea

Le Lapérouse

Oct. 2–9, 2025

19

Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

Le Bougainville L'Austral

July 16–23, 2024 June 18–25, 2025

20

Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba

Le Bougainville

May 26–June 2, 2025

21

Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca NEW

L'Austral

Oct. 3–10, 2025

22

Lisbon to the Canary Islands by Sea: Spain, Morocco, and the Atlantic Isles NEW

Le Bellot

Oct. 26–Nov. 8, 2025

23

Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal

24

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

25

Cruising the Aegean: Turkey and the Greek Isles NEW

26

Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage NEW

28

A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

Le Champlain

30

Panama and Costa Rica by Sea

Le Bellot

31

Cruising the Caribbean's Windward Islands

Le Champlain

Jan. 30–Feb. 7, 2025

32

Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes

Le Champlain

Oct.18–29, 2024; Oct. 1–15, 2025

33

Antarctica: The White Continent

L'Austral

Feb.18–Mar. 1, 2025

34

Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW

Le Soléal

May 21–28, 2024; Apr. 12–20, 2025

35

New Zealand's North and South Islands by Sea NEW

Le Jacques Cartier

Jan. 7–16, 2025

36

Cruising from Morocco to Spain's Andalusian Coast

Le Bellot

Apr. 13–20, 2025

37

Cruising the Arabian Coast

Le Bougainville

Jan. 16–24, 2025

42

Ancient Civilizations by Sea

Le Dumont-d'Urville

Le Champlain Le Bellot

Le Bougainville

Le Lapérouse Le Dumont-d'Urville Le Bougainville Le Soléal

New Date Available

Ancient Civilizations by Sea Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville 13 days from $10,140* / Mar. 27–Apr. 8, 2025

Witness an astonishing sweep of history and culture on a voyage that spans the Pyramids of Giza, the archaeological wonders of Turkey and Greece, and the rich culinary traditions of Cyprus. See King Tutankhamun's treasures and transit the historic Suez Canal. Trace history at the Minoan Palace of Knossos on Crete and the Greco-Roman city of Ephesus in Turkey; and visit the World Heritage site of Paphos in Cyprus.

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SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG/PONANT I 877.338.8687

Dates

July 20–27, 2024 June 27–July 4, 2025

June 2–10, Aug. 29–Sept. 6, 2025

Sept. 16–24, 2025 July 6–13, Oct. 12–19, 2025 Apr. 15–22, 2025 July 5–13, July 20–28, 2024 Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 11–18, 2024; Sept. 17–24, 2025 Jan. 6–13, 2025

Mar. 27–Apr. 8, 2025

More Ways to Travel with Smithsonian Journeys In addition to our small-ship cruises with PONANT, Smithsonian Journeys offers more than 130 travel itineraries that span the world and provide a variety of ways to explore a destination. All of our trips feature a unique blend of enriching insights, exceptional experiences, engaging experts and travel companions, and personal attention.

Active Journeys NEW! Classic Land Journeys Cultural Stays River Cruises Custom Tailor-Made Journeys Private Jet Journeys Student Travel

For more information, visit us online at SmithsonianJourneys.org

Terms and Conditions Pricing in this catalog is subject to change, and will vary depending on availability at the time of your reservation. Airfare is not included in the price unless specified on the itinerary page. Please see full Terms and Conditions online at SmithsonianJourneys.org/ponant-terms-conditions.

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: iStock, Dreamstime, Fotolia, Shutterstock. Front Cover: Santorini, Greece–PONANT Studio/Nathalie Michel. Back Cover: Hummingbird in Costa Rica–Dreamstime/Adam Wolszczak. Additional PONANT Studio Images: pp.2–3/Nathalie Michel; p.5/Nicolas Matheus; p.6 top/Olivier Touron; p.6 bottom/Alexis Harnichard; p.7 top/Christophe Dugied; p.7 bottom/Tamar Sarkissian; p.14/Mike Louagie; p.33/Nathalie Michel; p.38 top left/ Christophe Dugied; p.39 top right/Olivier Blaud; pp.38–39 bottom left/Christophe Dugied; p.39 bottom right/Nick Rains; p.40/Mike Louagie; p.41/Nathalie Michel. Additional photos: Smithsonian Journeys Experts.

Printed December 2023.

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Smit hson ian Institution P.O. Box 2 3182 Washin gton, DC 20026

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Let the Journey Begin SmithsonianJourneys.org/PONANT | 877.338.8687 Cover: Santorini, Greece | Back Cover: Hummingbird in Costa Rica