Virtual Tours
Douglas Mawson
Category SSF - Seven Seas Suite Forward
Seven Seas Suite (Forward)
Photos are examples only. Actual cabin colors and features may vary.

14 Night Sailing the Med A Mediterranean Feast Cruise and Land Tour

From Valletta, (Malta) to Barcelona, (Spain)

Douglas Mawson
Aurora Expeditions
4 Stars
Cruise #: 14118631
Sail Date: Friday, Sep 24, 2027
Return Date: Friday, Oct 8, 2027
Room Types & Rates:
Oceanview
Call to Book1-800-543-1915
Balcony
Call to Book1-800-543-1915
Suite
Call to Book1-800-543-1915
*Prices are per person based on double occupancy
Includes taxes & fees

Save Email Print

Day by Day Summary and Map

14 Night Sailing the Med A Mediterranean Feast Cruise and Land Tour

Land Segment of Itinerary

Friday - Sep 24, 2027
Day
1
  • Valletta, Malta
Welcome to Malta. On arrival at Valletta Airport make your way to the Arrivals Hall to meet Aurora Expeditions representative, followed by a transfer to your group hotel. At the hotel, visit the hospitality desk in the lobby to meet the team who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Valletta. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship. Today offers time to relax in preparation for our journey. Accommodation: Valletta hotel ...
Read More

Land Segment of Itinerary

Saturday - Sep 25, 2027
Day
2
  • Valletta, Malta
Sitting in the center of the Mediterranean, Malta boasts unbeatable location, location, location. Its sunny charm and island lifestyle have made it a modern-day summer holiday destination, but historically, its strategic position has made it a target for invaders. The Maltese people, known for their convivial and family-oriented nature, have a long history of defending their homeland, from ancient Greek sieges to Napoleon's forces. Their remarkable bravery during World War II, particularly during the Second Siege of Malta, earned the nation the George Cross from King George VI. This honor is proudly displayed on the Maltese flag and coat of arms, symbolizing their enduring spirit and resilience. Our morning is spent in Malta's celebrated capital, Valletta, which remains a historical city with streets of fascinating sites telling more than their fair share of stories. Our local guide tells tales of the past and present at the Barrakka Gardens where we gain a perspective of the city's harbor from a naval point of view before exploring the Grand Master's Palace and Armoury, where we uncover an impressive collection gathered by the Knights of St John, while the multimedia show, Malta Experience, places thousands of years of Malta into perspective. Your afternoon is free to enjoy the facilities at your hotel or stroll the streets of Valletta at your own pace. Join a Welcome Reception this evening, where we honor the bravery of the Maltese people and hear wartime tales of courage against seemingly insurmountable odds, from a local expert. Accommodation: Valletta hotel ...
Read More

Land Segment of Itinerary

Sunday - Sep 26, 2027
Day
3
  • Valletta, Malta
  • Bus Travel
  • Mdina, Malta, Malta
  • Bus Travel

Cruise Segment of Itinerary

Day 3 - Sunday - Sep 26, 2027
Day
3
Cruise Begins
  • Cruise Begins
  • Valletta, Malta
A second day in Valletta gives us the chance to experience more of Malta, when we venture into the island's rural heartland, where we experience the resilient and welcoming spirit for which the regional Maltese are known. Upon check-out we visit Mdina, Malta's former capital and one of the island's most atmospheric historic sites. Known as the 'Silent City', Mdina is a hilltop settlement with roots dating back over 3,000 years. The city's mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, quiet streets, and commanding views make it a 'must see'. A short introduction from our local guide will outline the city's history, from its time as a Roman municipium to its later role as a stronghold for Malta's nobility. Afterwards, you'll have free time to explore at your own pace, perhaps visit St. Paul's Cathedral, walk the bastions, wander the shops, or enjoy lunch (own expense) in an authentic Maltese restaurant. We'll then continue to a nearby boutique winery, located in the countryside just outside Mdina. With most Maltese wineries being small, family-owned estates, our visit offers an insight into country's rural lifestyle. We'll tour the vineyard and cellar, learn about their production methods, and enjoy a guided tasting of several wines. It's a relaxed and informal setting, offering a chance to experience another side of Maltese life, before we return to Valletta to board the Douglas Mawson and begin our voyage. This evening, enjoy a 'Welcome Dinner' where we meet our Aurora Expeditions team and crew. ...
Read More
Monday - Sep 27, 2027
Day
4
Siracusa, Italy
  • Siracusa, Italy
Syracuse's delightful jumble of Greek, Roman, medieval, and Baroque layers make every street corner and every ancient site a story unto itself. Greek ruins rise from citrus orchards; Baroque churches stand stoic and medieval streets lead down to the sea. They meet, a plethora of stories waiting to be heard. The 'Your Choice' experiences offer a variety of sights, sounds, and smells! For those visiting the sights of Syracuse or Noto this morning, we suggest a stroll to the island of Ortigia this afternoon. The small Baroque Island of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, has been inhabited for over 3,000 years and is celebrated for its Greek heritage. As a UNESCO landmark, Ortigia features stunning church facades, vibrant outdoor restaurants, and elegant piazzas. Surrounded by sea, it offers a pleasant afternoon visit, blending historical charm with a coastal vibe. ...
Read More
Tuesday - Sep 28, 2027
Day
5
  • Messina, Italy
We follow the coastline of Sicily overnight with an early morning arrival at the gateway to the island of Sicily: Messina. The city of Messina guards the mouth of the straits of the same name - a mere 15-minute ferry crossing from the Italian mainland. The recipient of more than its fair share of disasters, Messina has faced many invasions. However, it is the city's notorious bad luck - two major earthquakes and a tsunami, that destroyed the entire town. Famous as the finish line for Monty and Eisenhower on their wager as to who would reach Messina first, this stoic city acts today as our gateway to Europe's highest active volcano and its surrounding coastal gems. Our experiences today offer a variety of activities. Visit a winery on the slopes of Mt. Etna, take a seat at an ancient Roman amphitheater for one of the best views in Sicily, or follow Francis Ford Coppola's iconic trilogy on a 'Godfather' tour. As always it is Your Choice. ...
Read More
Wednesday - Sep 29, 2027
Day
6
  • Palermo, Italy
Once infamous as the center of the Sicilian Mafia, Sicily's capital, Palermo, now proudly claims to be 'a clean city', offering travelers the chance to enjoy its ancient sites, colorful markets, and vibrant Sicilian lifestyle once more. Steeped in history, culture, and Mediterranean charm, Palermo was founded by the Phoenicians as early as the 8th century BCE. Its strategic location at the crossroads of civilizations has seen it influenced by Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish cultures, making it a fascinating city to explore. Beyond its historical and architectural treasures, Palermo is known for its lively atmosphere, with bustling piazzas, a vibrant street food scene, and sun-drenched beaches. The city's resilience, rich history, and diverse cultural mix, make Palermo a captivating destination for travelers seeking to explore Sicilian heritage. This morning's 'Your Choice' activities offer a variety of ways to discover the city's story, leaving your afternoon free to explore at your own pace. To make things easy, a complimentary shuttle will run throughout the afternoon, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride into town and back. ...
Read More
Thursday - Sep 30, 2027
Day
7
At Sea
  • At Sea
Enjoy a leisurely day at sea as we sail from Italy's largest island to its second-largest. This is a day made for relaxation to do as much or as little as you please. Perhaps unwind in the sauna, lounge on the Sun Deck, or find a quiet corner in one of the ship's observation lounges. You might also discover a new favorite read in the well-stocked library, while this afternoon you're invited to join your master storyteller for a fascinating presentation on the culinary traditions of the region - a true feast for the mind and senses. ...
Read More
Friday - Oct 1, 2027
Day
8
Cagliari, Italy
  • Cagliari, Italy
The Mediterranean's second-largest island, Sardinia, is unique and enigmatic. Its coastline, beaches, granite cliffs, and mountainous inland showcase sprawling resorts and medieval villages - all a testimony to the island's eventful history as the center of the Mediterranean's east-to-west trading route. A succession of conquerors gifted to the islanders animals, seeds, and plants to be raised and populated. Understandably the most popular plants were vines, which now support a burgeoning wine business with Sardinian wines popular in Europe. Cagliari, Sardinia's vibrant capital, is a city where history and modern life blend seamlessly. Living here means enjoying a Mediterranean lifestyle framed by stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and bustling markets, shaped by an impressive list of conquerors like the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, and Spaniards. Its maze-like streets open onto energetic piazzas where neighbors debate politics, share laughter, and savor bold local flavors. The sea isn't just a backdrop, it's part of daily rhythm, with fishermen's boats arriving early and markets pulsing with fresh catch. The 'Your Choice' experiences showcase Cagliari and its surrounds with a sample of the best the region has to offer. A complimentary afternoon ship-to-shore shuttle is offered so you may explore Cagliari independently should you wish. ...
Read More
Saturday - Oct 2, 2027
Day
9
Olbia, Italy
  • Olbia, Italy
Following Sardinia's eastern seaboard, we reach the coastal city of Olbia in time to spend the afternoon on your favorite 'Your Choice' experience. Olbia, perched on Sardinia's northeastern coast, has been a crucial Mediterranean trading port linking the island to mainland Italy for centuries. Today, it serves as the vibrant gateway to the world-famous Costa Smeralda - a stretch of dazzling beaches, luxury resorts, and exclusive marinas, including the iconic Porto Cervo. From bustling harbor to stylish seaside playground, Olbia bridges Sardinia's rich trading past with its glamorous present, welcoming visitors to explore one of the Mediterranean's most coveted coastlines. ...
Read More
Sunday - Oct 3, 2027
Day
10
Bonifacio, France
  • Bonifacio, France
Although his parents sent him to military college on the mainland before he turned ten, Napoleon Bonaparte famously declared that to know Corsica 'is to be born there'. A land of vertical granite cliffs and craggy bays, Corsica is a slice of France with a twist. Passed between the powers of Pisa, Genoa, and France, even its language is a combination of Italian, spoken in a Tuscan dialect, and Latin. Corsica's strategic location has it firmly within the realms of trade, and few of its towns were as commercially important as Bonifacio, located at its southern tip. The 'Your Choice' experiences offer a morning in town with your afternoon free to explore solo, or a trip inland with the opportunity to learn about the islands thriving wine culture. This afternoon, a complimentary shuttle will be available for those who wish to return to Bonifacio's hilltop old town and soak up a little more of its unmistakable Corsican charm. ...
Read More
Monday - Oct 4, 2027
Day
11
At Sea
  • At Sea
We connect Sardinia and Menorca with a leisurely day at sea, sailing from Italy's largest island to the Balearic archipelago. This is a time to relax and enjoy the rhythm of the open water. Throughout the day, our hosts and onboard team will share engaging presentations on the historic trade routes and the role of food and drink in shaping the cultures of these island nations. As night falls, we'll be surrounded by a night sky full of stars, just as it was for ancient mariners who once navigated these same waters by starlight. ...
Read More
Tuesday - Oct 5, 2027
Day
12
Mahon, Spain
  • Mahon, Spain
The heart of this easternmost Balearic island beats to its own drum - albeit a mellow one. Over 210 kilometers (130 miles) of sandy beaches, fjord-style calas, and crescent shaped coves protect a rural inland crisscrossed by some 64,373 kilometers (40,000 miles) of stone walls and farms. Unlike the neighboring island of Mallorca, nightlife is non-existent in Menorca. Instead, you will find handicraft industries such as costume jewellery, leatherwork, dairy farming, and Menorcan horse centers popular among locals and tourists. After a century of British rule, Menorca was handed to Spain in 1802, yet the British influence remains. Not only is this evident in some of Menorca's architecture but in its drinking culture too, as the island is believed to be the first place to produce gin in the Mediterranean. Aurora's 'Your Choice' experiences showcase the islands capital and head inland seeking traditional insights. ...
Read More
Wednesday - Oct 6, 2027
Day
13
  • Palma de Mallorca, Spain
An autonomous region of Spain, the economy of the Balearic Islands has ebbed and flowed in line with the waters to which they owe their fame. Recent years have brought an influx of tourists on flight inclusive packages and Europeans seeking an 'expat' lifestyle on a budget. But there is more to these islands than a suntan and a smile. Their history paints a portrait of brave islanders defending their lands from far more sizeable empires. The Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, British, and Spanish have all left their mark, gifting this eclectic archipelago a story waiting to be told. We spend the morning on a 'Your Choice' experience, with a complimentary town to ship-shuttle for those wishing to linger in Palma longer, before sailing west to the Spanish coast mid-afternoon. ...
Read More
Thursday - Oct 7, 2027
Day
14
  • Barcelona, Spain
Socially, culturally, and industrially, Barcelona shines as a beacon of difference in Spain. Proudly Catalonian first and Spanish second, its people are free-spirited, liberal thinkers with a passion for their freedom. In the last 30 years, Barcelonans have sculpted their city into one of Europe's most venerated travel destinations. Its boulevard-style main street, Las Ramblas, is the name on every traveler's lips, and Barcelona's vibrant life is as sought after as it was during the Spanish Empire's monarchal peak. A palatial stronghold of the 15th-century power couple, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, Barcelona greeted a jubilant Christopher Columbus upon his return to Spain and the rest as they say, is history. The city has never looked back. Our tour today celebrates the capital of Catalunya. Famed for its vibrant arts scene, Barcelona shows off its style with works scattered along its plazas and throughout its parks. Miro, Picasso, Vidal, and Montaner all called Barcelona home. But it is the name Antoni Gaudi, which attracts 21st-century art aficionados worldwide. We spend time at his masterpiece of modernist architecture - La Sagrada Familia, to be inspired by the symbolism of this ongoing construction project, before motorcoach cruising the Plaza de Espana, Gran Via, and the elegant avenue of Paseo de Gracia, home to Barcelona's most inspired modernist architecture. Having familiarized yourself with the city, your afternoon is free to explore Barcelona's many attractions, before we transfer to our group hotel in the late afternoon. Accommodation: Barcelona hotel ...
Read More
  • Cruise Ends

Land Segment of Itinerary

Day 14 - Thursday - Oct 7, 2027
Day
14
Barcelona, Spain
  • Barcelona, Spain
Friday - Oct 8, 2027
Day
15
  • Barcelona, Spain
This morning, check out of your hotel and farewell your fellow travelers as you transfer to Barcelona airport for your onward flight.
Save Email Print
Save Email Print

Other Sail Dates and Itineraries on Douglas Mawson

Sail Date Itinerary Name Interior
From
Oceanview
From
Balcony
From
Suite
From
Details
Save Email Print
Save Email Print
Save Email Print
Save Email Print
Save Email Print
Overlay Title

Request a Call - We will call you right back

We are sorry, there are no travel agents available right now to return your call. Please complete the form below and one of our travel agents will call you back as soon as they are online. Thank you and we look forward to serving you.

  • Albania ( +355 )
  • Algeria ( +213 )
  • American Samoa ( +1 )
  • Andorra ( +376 )
  • Anguilla ( +1 )
  • Antigua and Barbuda ( +1 )
  • Argentina ( +54 )
  • Armenia ( +374 )
  • Aruba ( +297 )
  • Australia ( +61 )
  • Austria ( +43 )
  • Azerbaijan ( +994 )
  • Bahamas ( +1 )
  • Bahrain ( +973 )
  • Bangladesh ( +880 )
  • Barbados ( +1 )
  • Belgium ( +32 )
  • Belize ( +501 )
  • Benin ( +229 )
  • Bermuda ( +1 )
  • Bhutan ( +975 )
  • Bolivia ( +591 )
  • Bonaire
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina ( +387 )
  • Botswana ( +267 )
  • Brazil ( +55 )
  • British Virgin Islands ( +1 )
  • Brunei ( +673 )
  • Bulgaria ( +359 )
  • Burkina Faso ( +226 )
  • Burundi ( +257 )
  • Cambodia ( +855 )
  • Cameroon ( +237 )
  • Canada ( +1 )
  • Cape Verde ( +238 )
  • Cayman Islands ( +1 )
  • Central African Republic ( +236 )
  • Chile ( +56 )
  • China ( +86 )
  • Christmas Island ( +61 )
  • Cocos (Keeling) Islands ( +61 )
  • Colombia ( +57 )
  • Comoros ( +269 )
  • Cook Islands ( +682 )
  • Costa Rica ( +506 )
  • Croatia ( +385 )
  • Curacao
  • Cyprus ( +357 )
  • Czech Republic ( +420 )
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo ( +243 )
  • Denmark ( +45 )
  • Djibouti ( +253 )
  • Dominica ( +1 )
  • Dominican Republic ( +1 )
  • Ecuador ( +593 )
  • Egypt ( +20 )
  • Equatorial Guinea ( +240 )
  • Eritrea ( +291 )
  • Estonia ( +372 )
  • Ethiopia ( +251 )
  • Falkland Islands ( +500 )
  • Faroe Islands ( +298 )
  • Fiji ( +679 )
  • Finland ( +358 )
  • France ( +33 )
  • French Guiana ( +594 )
  • French Polynesia ( +689 )
  • Gabon ( +241 )
  • Gambia ( +220 )
  • Georgia ( +995 )
  • Germany ( +49 )
  • Ghana ( +233 )
  • Gibraltar ( +350 )
  • Greece ( +30 )
  • Greenland ( +299 )
  • Grenada ( +1 )
  • Guadaloupe
  • Guam ( +1 )
  • Guatemala ( +502 )
  • Guinea ( +224 )
  • Guinea-Bissau ( +245 )
  • Guyana ( +592 )
  • Haiti ( +509 )
  • Honduras ( +504 )
  • Hong Kong ( +852 )
  • Hungary ( +36 )
  • Iceland ( +354 )
  • India ( +91 )
  • Indonesia ( +62 )
  • Ireland ( +353 )
  • Israel ( +972 )
  • Italy ( +39 )
  • Ivory Coast ( +225 )
  • Jamaica ( +1 )
  • Japan ( +81 )
  • Jordan ( +962 )
  • Kenya ( +254 )
  • Kiribati ( +686 )
  • Kuwait ( +965 )
  • Kyrgyzstan ( +996 )
  • Latvia ( +371 )
  • Lebanon ( +961 )
  • Lesotho ( +266 )
  • Liberia ( +231 )
  • Liechtenstein ( +423 )
  • Lithuania ( +370 )
  • Luxembourg ( +352 )
  • Macau ( +853 )
  • Madagascar ( +261 )
  • Malawi ( +265 )
  • Malaysia ( +60 )
  • Maldives ( +960 )
  • Malta ( +356 )
  • Marshall Islands ( +692 )
  • Martinique
  • Mauritania ( +222 )
  • Mauritius ( +230 )
  • Mexico ( +52 )
  • Micronesia ( +691 )
  • Moldova ( +373 )
  • Monaco ( +377 )
  • Mongolia ( +976 )
  • Montenegro ( +382 )
  • Montserrat ( +1 )
  • Morocco ( +212 )
  • Mozambique ( +258 )
  • Namibia ( +264 )
  • Nauru ( +674 )
  • Nepal ( +977 )
  • Netherlands ( +31 )
  • Netherlands Antilles ( +599 )
  • New Caledonia ( +687 )
  • New Zealand ( +64 )
  • Nicaragua ( +505 )
  • Niger ( +227 )
  • Nigeria ( +234 )
  • Niue ( +683 )
  • North Macedonia ( +389 )
  • Northern Mariana Islands ( +1 )
  • Norway ( +47 )
  • Oman ( +968 )
  • Pakistan ( +92 )
  • Palau ( +680 )
  • Panama ( +507 )
  • Papua New Guinea ( +675 )
  • Paraguay ( +595 )
  • Peru ( +51 )
  • Philippines ( +63 )
  • Pitcairn Islands ( +870 )
  • Poland ( +48 )
  • Portugal ( +351 )
  • Puerto Rico ( +1 )
  • Qatar ( +974 )
  • Reunion
  • Romania ( +40 )
  • Rwanda ( +250 )
  • Saint Helena ( +290 )
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis ( +1 )
  • Saint Lucia ( +1 )
  • Saint Pierre and Miquelon ( +508 )
  • San Marino ( +378 )
  • Saudi Arabia ( +966 )
  • Senegal ( +221 )
  • Serbia ( +381 )
  • Seychelles ( +248 )
  • Sierra Leone ( +232 )
  • Singapore ( +65 )
  • Sint Maarten
  • Slovakia ( +421 )
  • Slovenia ( +386 )
  • Solomon Islands ( +677 )
  • Somalia ( +252 )
  • South Africa ( +27 )
  • South Korea ( +82 )
  • Spain ( +34 )
  • Sri Lanka ( +94 )
  • Sweden ( +46 )
  • Switzerland ( +41 )
  • Taiwan ( +886 )
  • Thailand ( +66 )
  • Turkey ( +90 )
  • United Arab Emirates ( +971 )
  • United Kingdom ( +44 )
  • United States ( +1 )
  • Uruguay ( +598 )
  • US Minor Outlying Islands
  • US Virgin Islands ( +1 )
  • Vietnam ( +84 )
+1
Overlay Title