Cities and Splendours of the Adriatic - From Dubrovnik to Venice in Luxury

Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon. The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.

You will sail towards the popular island of Hvar, for a day in Stari Grad, an intimate port of call that is off the beaten track. Let your feelings guide you and discover this pretty city located at the end of a fertile plain, planted with vines and olive groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The organisation of its parcels, marked out by dry stone walls that punctuate the landscape, goes back to ancient times. Wander around the small streets at your leisure, discovering the town’s pretty boutiques and gourmet restaurants. 

Bol is a destination in the Dalmatian archipelago, best kept secret. This picturesque village is located on the southern coast of Brac Island. Its traditional architecture has unbelievable charm: little houses with white facades and red tiled roofs provide the perfect setting for laid-back meanders. Beyond the port, the waterfront promenade leads onto the beaches which are shaded by pines and cypresses. The most famous of them is Zlatni Rat, “the golden horn”. From the belvedere on Vidova Gora mountain, you can see its unusual contours and get an eyeful of the other Adriatic islands.

We have no doubt that the authenticity of this little island in Kvarner bay will charm you beyond belief. Dating from Adriatic Antiquity, its name means “wooded lands” in reference to the pinewoods, cypresses and cork oaks surrounding the main town. This town is called Rab, like the island. Here, you will see architecture of Venetian influence, inherited from the Middle Ages, illustrated by the bell-tower. Below, the ramparts provide views embracing the entire coastline, punctuated by deserted creeks.

Viewed from above, the Brijuni archipelago forms rounded shapes in dazzling colours against the blue hues of the Adriatic. This group of 14 Istrian islands has been inhabited by man since the Bronze Age, thanks to its mild climate and favourable geographical position. The architectural heritage of these islands is very significant, since Roman ruins from the 1st century BC can be found here. Vestiges from the Byzantine and Venetian periods round off this deep-dive into the past which continues right up to the 19th century with the arrival of the Austrian industrialist Paul Kupelwieser. By purchasing Veliki Brijun, the largest island in the group, he actively contributed to the reputation of the archipelago among the Austro-Hungarian aristocrats of the Belle Époque. Later on, great political leaders such as Marshal Tito, the former president of Yugoslavia, would mingle here with the great writers of the time, including James Joyce or Thomas Mann. The islands were granted national park status in 1983, for their natural beauty and their biodiversity. Discover this unique corner of paradise on a bike or in a kayak, via land or from the refreshing waters of the Mediterranean.

The Pearl of the Adriatic, lying at the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula, Pula is undoubtedly the most Roman of all Croatian towns. Some of the greatest pages in history were written here, as the breathtaking ancient remains testify. Take your pick exploring the amphitheatre, the Twin Gates, the Gate of Hercule and the triumphal Arch of the Sergii. Stroll through the busy lanes in the old town, enjoying the warm welcome of the locals, and perhaps you will be tempted to try the famous Kvarner scampi or Istrian ham.

On the Slovenian coast, the picturesque town of Piran stands on a tongue of land bathed by the Adriatic. Its old town, girded by fortifications, provides a medieval atmosphere embossed with Venetian nuances. From Tartini square, you can explore a whole interweave of mysterious streets located on the hillside, leading you to Saint George’s church, built on a hillock overlooking the shoreline. After admiring the view, don’t miss a good look at the nave, and its rich decorations of frescoes and panelling. You will also see that the tower built behind the church reproduces the famous bell-tower of Saint Mark’s square. During your peregrinations, make sure you try a borek, a sort of pasty which can be sweet or savoury, filled with meat or fruit.

Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Vessel Type: Luxury

Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins

Built: 2017/2018

Le Bougainville is the third ship in the PONANT Explorers series, designed to merge elegant French style with advanced expedition technology. Carrying up to 184 guests across 92 luxurious staterooms and suites, it offers an intimate atmosphere with a focus on comfort and open connection to the sea. The ship’s sleek design invites light and space, featuring expansive lounges, panoramic decks, a swimming pool, theatre, and wellness facilities that create a relaxed yet sophisticated onboard experience.

True to the French spirit of exploration, Le Bougainville celebrates both discovery and refinement. Guests can savour world-class cuisine in elegant dining venues, enjoy a quiet moment in the ship’s stylish lounges, or embark on Zodiac excursions directly from the marina platform. Equipped with the latest environmental technologies, the vessel embodies responsible luxury travel—offering guests the chance to explore the world’s most extraordinary destinations in style and harmony with nature.

Vessel Type: Luxury

Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins

Built: 2017/2018

Le Dumont d’Urville is one of PONANT’s state-of-the-art Explorer-class yachts, designed to combine refined French sophistication with immersive expedition travel. Hosting a maximum of 184 guests across 92 elegantly appointed staterooms and suites, the ship offers an intimate cruising experience defined by comfort, style, and innovation. Expansive lounge areas, a panoramic theatre, and multiple bars create inviting spaces to relax and socialise, while the infinity pool seamlessly blends into the sea views. From the marina platform, guests can easily embark on Zodiac excursions or enjoy water activities in serene surroundings.

Every detail aboard Le Dumont d’Urville reflects a celebration of nature and discovery. Guests enjoy world-class gastronomy, a serene spa and fitness area, and advanced technology that supports environmentally responsible exploration. Purpose-built for navigating diverse destinations — from Nordic fjords and Mediterranean coastlines to Caribbean islands and Arctic waterways — this sleek, modern vessel embodies the art of travel at sea: luxurious, sustainable, and deeply connected to the natural world.