5th Opera Festival at Sea

<p>During an exceptional 11-day musical cruise aboard Le Dumont d’Urville, in partnership with Radio Classique and with the artistic director Alain Duault as special guest, sail these mythical waters to discover the natural treasures and cultural gems of the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts.<p></p>Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, admire the charms of the mythical village of Portofino; explore Lecce, known as the Florence of Southern Italy, from Otranto; or set off from Taormina to climb the mythical Mount Etna. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).<p></p>From Venice, La Serenissima, you will sail to Ravenna. Capital of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, the city bears witness to a thousand-year-old history where Roman and Byzantine cultures mingled and which can be seen today inside the city's religious buildings through its ancient mosaics.<p></p>After a stop in Ancona, you will set a course for the Puglia region and stop in Otranto. Inhabited since ancient times, the medieval town is now a very pleasant seaside resort whose history can be discovered by wandering through the narrow streets of the old town.<p></p>You will then head to 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>You will then stop at Porto Santo Stefano, a town built along a hillside and surrounded by a 17th century fortress, before sailing on to Amalfi and its coast, which are magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Perched between sky and sea, Amalfi presents amazing landscapes.<p></p>Your cruise will continue along the Tuscan shoreline to Livorno, a port city famous for its Renaissance fortifications. The Little Venice district, as it is known, offers a picturesque setting in which to enjoy fish and seafood.<p></p>Finally, your adventure along Italy’s shoreline will continue in Portofino. Built in a natural harbour protected by a pine forest, it is a picturesque and lively port that has successfully retained its authenticity and traditions.<p></p>Your cruise will end in Nice, the capital of the French Riviera.</p>