Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

From Venice to Athens Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,890*

July 16–23, 2024

Discover the treasures that lie along the Adriatic’s shores as you sail from Venice to Athens along Croatia’s islandstudded Dalmatian Coast. Encounter an array of World Heritage sites—from the walled town of Dubrovnik to Montenegro’s breathtaking Gulf of Kotor—exploring the legacy of Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Byzantines across the Balkan Peninsula.

Highlights Include

Hvar: Step into history on a walking tour of the 17th-century squares and monuments of Hvar town; or travel into the countryside to view lavender fields and enjoy an easy hike to the beach.

Mostar and Ston: In Bosnia and Herzegovina, tour the Ottoman outpost of Mostar, now a World Heritage site, and see the famous Stari Most bridge. Or visit the centuries-old saltworks in the walled town of Ston, and cruise in a local boat to see how oysters and mussels are farmed here—and taste the fresh catch.

Dubrovnik: Enjoy a full day in exquisite Dubrovnik to see the famous landmarks of this iconic World Heritage-listed walled city.

Kotor: Sail into Montenegro’s spectacular Bay of Kotor, a World Heritage site surrounded by towering peaks, and tour the historic town of Kotor.

Sarandë and Butrint: In Albania, uncover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Butrint or discover an Ottoman castle and an ancient Illyrian city on a walking tour of Sarandë.

Delphi and the Corinth Canal: Explore ancient Delphi, home to the mythical Oracle, or visit St. Lucas Monastery, a spectacular monument of Middle Byzantine architecture. Make a thrilling passage through the ultra-narrow Corinth Canal.

Add a one-night extension in Athens or a two-night extension in Venice.

*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 Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine. Visit our website for the additional expert.