Ancient Civilizations by Sea: Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey

From Aqaba to Malta Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

13 days from $9,440*

Apr. 2–14, 2024

Experience a vast sweep of history on a voyage from the Red Sea to Malta, encountering the palaces of the Bronze Age Minoans on Crete, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Greco-Roman city of Ephesus. Explore the holy sites of three world religions in Jerusalem’s Old City, and discover the legacy of the knights of the Crusades in Rhodes. Along the way, float in the Dead Sea, sail the Suez Canal, and enjoy a delectable culinary adventure in the charming villages of Cyprus.

Highlights Include

The Holy Land: Explore the ancient mountaintop fortress of Masada, then descend to the Dead Sea for lunch and a swim. Or discover the archaeological site of King Solomon’s copper mines and see the marine life of the Red Sea at an underwater aquarium. Spend a day discovering the sacred sites of Jerusalem’s Old City.

Giza, Egypt and the Suez Canal: Encounter the extraordinary Pyramids and the Sphinx on a guided visit. Gain insights into ancient Egypt during a talk by a renowned professor, then see King Tut’s treasures—and much more—at the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum.

Cyprus: On a culinary tour of western Cyprus, learn how halloumi is made and knead your own Cypriot sourdough. Taste wine made from the island’s varietal grapes, and savor a traditional mezze lunch. In Paphos, discover the underground Tombs of the Kings and the stunning mosaics of the House of Dionysos.

Rhodes and Ephesus: Explore the legacy of ancient Greeks, Romans, and the knights of the Crusades as you visit the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Masters. Travel to beautiful Lindos to visit its hilltop Acropolis and its temples. Then sail to the Turkish coast for a visit to the World Heritage site of Ephesus.

Crete: Venture to the storied Palace of Knossos, the political center of Minoan civilization and legendary home of King Minos and the Minotaur. Then browse an impressive collection of ancient Greek artifacts at the Archaeology Museum in Heraklion.

Add a three-night extension in Jordan or a one-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.

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 journalist Adam Tanner. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi

A Stay in the United Arab Emirates

10 days from $5,490

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available Nov. 28—Dec. 7, 2023

On the shores of the Persian Gulf, the glittering cities of the United Arab Emirates have sprung up in just the past few decades, becoming world-class centers of culture and innovation where not long ago there were only Bedouin villages and sandy trading ports. Delve into the past, present, and future of this exciting country on a journey that takes to you to two of its emirates: Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Highlights Include

Old and New Dubai: Venture into enchanting souks where gold and spices have been traded for centuries, meander through the labyrinthine lanes of the historic center, and explore Emirati culture with local scholars at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding. Then trace the city’s evolution at the Dubai Frame and zoom up to the highest floors of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Arabian Desert: Discover the second largest desert in the world, setting out on a wildlife drive to spot indigenous flora and fauna such as the Arabian oryx.

Abu Dhabi: See exquisite examples of Arabian artistry at the Qasr al Watan presidential palace and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Drive along the seaside Corniche and see the skyscrapers of this innovative city, and visit the 18thcentury fort of Qasr al Hosn. Enjoy Emirati hospitality as you share a meal with a family in a private home.

Cutting-edge Museums: Experience some of the most exciting museums to open in recent years, known for their extraordinary architecture as well as their unparalleled exhibitions. Visit the soaring Dubai Frame, and take a guided tour of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.