Explore the Côte d'Azur up close in Saint-Raphaël with the opportunity to visit a nearby olive oil mill, where you will learn about the rich history of its production here and enjoy a sampling. From Toulon, the renowned wine of Le Lavandou beckons at the Domaine de l’Anglade, an exclusive winery where you and your fellow connoisseurs can sample their exquisite rosé and other vintage. Join your fellow explorers on a Moroccan tea and bread experience in Tangier, discovering the secrets of making the perfect mint tea and gaining a greater appreciation for the shared ritual. Almería’s distinct Moorish architecture is accentuated by natural gems like Cabo de Gata, a wetland filled with sand dunes and saltpans that create a striking contrast to the surrounding volcanic mountains. UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Menorca’s Talaiotic culture and Antoni Gaudí’s wondrous architecture in Barcelona add another layer of exploration to this expedition.
Nice rises from the pebbled coast to lush hills, yet the heart of the city is located between the old port city and the Aeroport de Côte d’Azur. To take it all in, enjoy a jaunt on the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean Sea. The Old Port, located in Vieux Nice (Old Nice), is a colorful and busy place, with various markets. There discover an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas. Stretch out on Nice’s recognizable blue lounge chairs on one of its iconic beaches. Some of these private beaches, like the Blue Beach or the Castel Beach, are among the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera.
Sep 17Saint-Raphael , France
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Saint-Raphael , France
Along France’s famed Côte d’Azur sits the resort town of Saint-Raphaël, filled with all the beauty of Mediterranean beaches and long-standing history. Its charming harbor surrounded by the forested hills of Massif des Maures creates a positively bucolic scene within a larger city. Admire the architecture of Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, built from sandstone in the 19th century. The town is surrounded by entrancing landscapes, from the Calanque de Maubois to Massif de l’Esterel. Whether you choose to dive into these environments with an invigorating hike or a leisurely boat ride, you will likely experience a deep connection with nature.
Sep 18Toulon, France
Arrive: 9:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Toulon, France
Best known as a naval base and harbor for warships and submarines, the port city of Toulon’s maritime heritage is on display at the Musée National de la Marine. But the limestone mountains beyond hint at further adventure. Take a ride on the téléphérique du Faron for impeccable views. Once topside, discover the many hiking trails along Mount Faron. Down at Plage du Mourillon, enjoy a quintessential beach day. Nearby bars and restaurants offer food and drink to replenish your energy. Discover the bustle and color of the Cours Lafayette Market. Filled with stalls and vendors selling seasonal produce, local clothing, home goods and flowers, it’s a treasure trove.
Sep 19Marseilles (Aix-en-Provence), France
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 10:00 pm
Marseilles (Aix-en-Provence), France
As your ship docks mere steps away from Old Marseille, its crowning jewel, Notre-Dame de la Gard Basilica, reaches into the sky to greet you. Pedal to Vieux Port, the city’s natural harbor, and take in the arts scene, shops and a traditional Marseillaise lunch, such as the classic bouillabaisse, a soup made with five different kinds of fish. Le Panier neighborhood, Marseilles’ oldest district, offers the perfect way to get lost in genuine culture. Meanwhile, in the nearby Aix-en-Provence, discover the picturesque Le Cours Mirabeau. Wander until you find the Atelier Cézanne, the art studio where famous post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne created most of his works.
Sep 20At Sea
At Sea
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
Sep 21Barcelona, Spain
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 10:00 pm
Barcelona, Spain
The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona, lives up to its reputation as a center of grand architecture and inspiring art. Antoni Gaudi’s Park Guell displays architecture as art, making for a whimsical and colorful stroll through Barcelona. Stretching from La Rambla to Via Laietana you will find the Gothic Quarter, the city’s historic center with intricate medieval buildings and streets turned into modern bars, clubs, and restaurants. A short way up La Rambla you’ll come across La Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets, filled with fruits, pastries, and many tasty samples of local fare.
Sep 22Mahon (Menorca), Spain
Arrive: 10:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Mahon (Menorca), Spain
The capital of the Spanish island of Menorca, Mahón (or Maó), is well-known for its British-style Georgian houses and its sheltered natural harbor. The best way to appreciate the land’s beauty is by navigating it on a small vessel. When visiting Mahón, considered the birthplace of salsa mahonesa (better known as mayonnaise), you must sample the local fare. From fresh seafood to refreshing gin to delectable cheeses, it’s a foodie’s paradise. Support local artisans by shopping for the island’s famous Menorquinas or Avarcas, a specialty shoe once favored among the peasants for keeping their feet cool now turned into a fashion statement.
Sep 23Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
You know you have arrived in Palma de Mallorca, a major city of the Balearics of Spain, when you are met with majestic limestone cliffs plunging into glimmering blue water. On shore, its rich history is evident in its wonderful buildings, castles, and cathedrals. Take in the landmark Gothic cathedral, La Seu, with its enormous rose window and its wrought-iron canopy over the main altar designed by famed Spanish architect Antonio Gaudí. Go for a run or bike ride along the seaside promenade that connects Palma de Mallorca to the neighboring villages of Portitxol and Es Molinar. Beyond the city, explore the lush Sierra de Tramuntana Valley, the island’s major mountain range and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sep 24Ibiza, Spain
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 10:00 pm
Ibiza, Spain
Dalt Vila, also known as Ibiza Town, is one of the Balearic’s most picturesque cities and a fabulous place to wander around. It’s home to an old port and historic city ramparts and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island of Ibiza has some of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the Mediterranean, including Ses Figueretes and Playa D’en Bossa. Wherever you choose to swim or sunbathe, you will find inviting clear blue waters and golden sands lined with beach bars. For a more relaxing excursion, head toward S’Espalmador, a small, uninhabited island between Ibiza and Formentera.
Sep 25Alicante, Spain
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Alicante, Spain
The area surrounding Alicante has been inhabited by people for more than 7,000 years, starting with the first tribes of hunter-gatherers of the region. Visit the Plaza de San Cristobal in Alicante’s Old Town where buildings dating back to between the 15th and 18th centuries display an array of architectural styles that show the city’s evolution. Overlooking the famous Playa del Postiguet, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara on Mount Benacantil offers exquisite views. Find your way to the Alicante Central Market to sample delicious, local seafood, produce, meat and other Spanish delicacies.
Sep 26Cartagena, Spain
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Cartagena, Spain
Along the south of Spain on the Mediterranean coast sits Cartagena, founded in 227 BCE and inhabited for more than two millennia. From the 2,000-year-old Roman theater to the ARQUA Marine Archaeology Museum, it’s a place rife with stories for the curious mind to dive into. Driving down dirt roads about 30 minutes outside of Cartagena, you find yourself at the tip of Cape Tiñoso, where the impressive Batería de Castillitos resides. Bring yourself back to the present with shopping, bars, cafes and restaurants on Calle Mayor. While Cartagena only has one beach, Cala Cortina, it’s an oasis jewel located within a tiny cove.
Sep 27Almeria (Granada), Spain
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 10:00 pm
Almeria (Granada), Spain
With so much to see in the Andalusia region of Spain, Almería is often overlooked. But it holds an enchantment all its own, with fairytale castles amid colorful modern buildings. On Cabo de Gata Natural Park you find a spectacular beach of unspoiled sands and blue water with a backdrop of sand dunes, cacti and mountains. About 30 kilometers northwest of Almería you also find Desierto Tabernas, Europe’s only desert and setting of the famous Sergio Leone starring Clint Eastwood. Discover a local eatery in the quaint fishing town of Garrucha to sample the port’s famous red prawns, fresh-caught from the harbor.
Sep 28At Sea
At Sea
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
Sep 29Tangier, Morocco
Arrive: 7:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Tangier, Morocco
A Moroccan port in the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier has acted as the connection between Europe and North Africa since Phoenician times. It’s also a less-traveled port, so it offers a more authentic feel to city life in Morocco. Wander the medina to lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets leading to the Grand Socco marketplace. The Kasbah Museum, the old sultan’s palace restored to its former glory, contains a dazzling array of detailed maps, mesmerizing courtyards and signature Moorish architecture. Explore the Caves of Hercules, near Cap Spartel just outside of Tangier city limits.
Sep 30Malaga, Spain
Arrive: 8:00 am
Malaga, Spain
The Spanish city of Málaga along the Mediterranean’s Costa del Sol combines the simple, cosmopolitan feel with the quiet sleepiness of local fishing villages. A dive into the past starts with the ruins of the Roman amphitheater, its ancient stones creating the path that leads to Alcazaba Castle. When the sun goes down, the party starts at Plaza de la Constitucion. Energy thrums through the city streets as the residents come out for the night. Make your way to Granada to visit the famous Alhambra Palace, an outstanding example of Moorish architecture that attracts travelers from all around the world.
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FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
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FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
FREE afternoon and high tea
FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
FREE L'OCCITANE bath amenities
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FREE reusable water bottle
FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites
Exclusively on Polar Expeditions
FREE cultural immersion
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FREE enrichment lectures and destination briefings
FREE shore landings led by expert field guides
FREE escorted sightseeing safaris by Zodiac
FREE polar plunge
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FREE use of knee boots
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FREE 1-night post-cruise hotel stay on select Antarctica expeditions
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FREE cultural immersion includes culinary experience ashore, such as local market visits, specialty tastings and more
FREE Josper Grill Dining Experience at 7AFT Grill
FREE culinary presentations and wine tastings
FREE cooking demonstrations and cuisine tastings
FREE events hosted by a Tastes & Traditions Expert on select expeditions
FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages backpack
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FREE cultural immersion
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