Authentic Mediterranean shores

<p>Majestic volcanoes, fertile valleys, iconic ancient sites, and enchanting islands… Set off to discover the gems of Sicily, the shores of Malta, and the Amalfi Coast. Over the course of this 10-day journey, Le Boréal will take you to the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilizations, unveiling legendary sites. Along these sun-drenched shores, historic cities will open the doors to their ancient treasures and reveal their age-old secrets, while the untamed beauty of the Mediterranean coastline will showcase its full splendor.<p></p>You will begin your cruise in Valletta. This capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to many historical sites: St John's Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and the churches of Our Lady of Victory, Saint Catherine and il Gesù.<p></p>Setting sail from Malta, your next stop is Porto Empedocle, gateway to the fabled Greek temples of Agrigento, among the most captivating ruins in the entire Mediterranean.<p></p>Then you will head towards Trapani. 750 metres (2,460 feet) up, perched on a high triangular plateau sloping down to the sea, this medieval city is a labyrinth of polished, paved narrow streets and alleyways with superb views over the Aegadian Islands and the valley.<p></p>A cultural jewel of Sicily, Palermo is a splendid witness to three thousand years of history where you will be able to visit emblematic landmarks such as the 12th-century cathedral and Teatro Massimo, one of the largest theatres in Europe.<p></p>A little further north, you will discover the Aeolian islands. Lipari is the capital of the Aeolian volcanic archipelago and is renowned for its many natural and architectural gems.<p></p>Then, sail in front of Stromboli, an active volcano whose crater regularly erupts with lava flows.<p></p>Your ship will then head for the Amalfi Coast, the jewel of Southern Italy, where you will visit Salerno, a superb little town particularly renowned for its Duomo.<p></p>Le Boréal will set sail north-east, to the tip of the Italian boot, for Reggio de Calabre. Fall under the spell of the fragrance of bergamot, the citrus fruit that dominates the region, in this charming city with its Art Nouveau and Belle Époque influences, as well as the outstanding panoramas provided by the lungomare, the sea front promenade, of the Sicilian coastline and Etna.<p></p>You will take the sea to discover Taormina, overlooking Etna’s blanket of snow. Its streets will lead you to its famed ancient Greek theatre, where the quality of the acoustics is exceptional.<p></p>Then, you will set sail for Syracuse, one of the most prestigious Sicilian cities, whose monuments are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage.<p></p>Your cruise will come to an end in Valletta, former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.</p>