Embark Barcelona, Spain

Begin your expedition in Barcelona, with time to explore the city before transferring to Douglas Mawson in the late afternoon. Once onboard, settle into your cabin, meet the expedition team and complete the ship’s safety briefing before sailing from Barcelona. The first evening concludes with a welcome dinner and an introduction to the Mediterranean journey ahead.

Meals: Dinner onboard

Discover the quieter side of the Balearics in Menorca, an island known for its traditional crafts, distinctive horse culture and relaxed pace of life. Centuries of British influence can still be seen in Mahon's architecture and local traditions, not least its enduring association with gin, which was first produced on the island during British rule.

Enjoy a day at sea as you sail from Menorca towards Corsica. The onboard team brings the destinations ahead to life through presentations on their history and culture, while there is plenty of time to relax, enjoy the observation lounge, visit the library or make use of the ship’s facilities.

Arrive by Zodiac at Porto Cervo on Sardinia’s celebrated Costa Smeralda before travelling to Palau and taking to the water again to explore the protected La Maddalena Archipelago. Cruise between granite islands and secluded coves, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in clear turquoise waters and perhaps spot bottlenose dolphins. It is a day that combines a glimpse of glamorous Porto Cervo with some of northern Sardinia’s finest coastal scenery.

Sail into one of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic natural harbours, where Bonifacio’s ancient citadel rises above towering limestone cliffs. Explore on foot along part of the Stradavecia Path, with spectacular views across the Strait of Bonifacio towards Sardinia, before enjoying free time to discover the old town, historic churches and waterfront. It is a destination particularly well suited to arrival by small ship, with the approach from the sea revealing the extraordinary setting of the town.

Explore the beautiful waters of Golfo Aranci by Zodiac and small boat, cruising beneath Capo Figari and around Figarolo Island. The bay is known for its resident bottlenose dolphins, offering the possibility of seeing them feeding and socialising in the wild. Depending on conditions, there may also be time for a swim in one of the sheltered inlets before sailing east towards Capri.

Arrive by tender at legendary Capri, an island that has attracted visitors since Roman times. Ride the funicular to Capri Town before choosing between the colourful Gardens of Augustus, with sweeping views across the island, or a scenic walk along the Pizzolungo, passing the Natural Arch and dramatic Faraglioni rocks. Back onboard, sail past the island’s famous coastline and towards the Amalfi Coast as the ship continues to Salerno.

From Salerno, travel to Pompeii, one of the world’s great archaeological sites. Buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, its remarkably preserved streets, houses, temples and everyday objects provide an extraordinary glimpse into life in a Roman city nearly 2,000 years ago. Explore with a local guide or independently before returning to the ship and sailing south towards Sicily.

Thanks to the ship’s small size, dock close to Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, and explore its lively streets and food market with a local guide. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Neapolis Archaeological Park to discover its vast Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre and ancient limestone quarries, including the remarkable Ear of Dionysius. Return onboard for the final sailing towards Malta and a farewell dinner.

Your Mediterranean expedition concludes in Valletta. After breakfast onboard, disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.