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Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ An Adriatic Renaissance 

This unique voyage traces the ebb and flow of time, from the fortified city of Valletta to the island haven of Venice, following the paths of legendary figures who have shaped this coast. From the St John’s Knights Hospitaller to the adventures of Marco Polo and the spiritual journeys of centuries of pilgrims, our trip embodies the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure.   

Whether visiting the ancient city of Split, the imperial harbours of Dubrovnik and Ravenna, or the charming town of Alberobello and the hilltop Republic of San Marino, we encounter tales of heroism, intrigue and enduring legacies. Here, the stories of knights, merchants, legions and explorers combine to celebrate their courage, curiosity and resilience, leading us to the modern-day wonder that is the Adriatic’s ‘Renaissance’. 

Highlights

Discover southern Italy’s lesser-known gems of Matera, Alberobello, Lecce and Chianalea
Explore the fortified cities of Dubrovnik, Gallipoli and Klis
Immerse yourself in the rich history of knights, merchants and legions in Valletta, Split, Bari and Ravenna
Meet the vintners and craftsmen who turn local produce into gold at Gruda, Marche, Rovinj and Pula
Witness the modern-day renaissance of the Adriatic, from the timeless elegance of Venice to the cultural richness of Istrian villages and the medieval Republic of San Marino

Itinerary

Staterooms and Prices

Choose your departure

Our Ship

The Douglas Mawson

Our new purpose-built small ship, the Douglas Mawson.
Capacity
154 Passengers Maximum (130 on Expedition)
Year built
2025
Cabins
86
Length
104.4 m
Decks
8
Speed
10-12 Knots

Loyal Travelers

We love celebrating our loyal expeditioners who return to explore with us. After your first Aurora Expeditions voyage, you’ll automatically achieve Bronze Adventurer status. The more voyages you embark on, the higher you climb—progressing to Silver and eventually Gold!

Solo Travelers

Voyages with Aurora Expeditions are such a fantastic choice for solo travelers, giving you the chance to experience the world’s most remote and incredible destinations with like-minded travelers and our expert guides, while on board our small, social and welcoming ships.

Your Choice Experiences

Our ‘Your Choice’ curated excursions and enrichment program are included in your voyage. They offer you a choice of experiences designed to bring cruising to a whole new level. Experience a medley of culture, traditions, and history as you travel beyond the ordinary, immersing yourself in each destination and creating lasting memories.