Beyond the Icons: 14-Night Aurora Malta to Lisbon Voyage

Valletta to Lisbon: The Mediterranean Beyond the Icons is a 14-night small-ship voyage aboard Douglas Mawson, sailing from Malta on May 31, 2028 and arriving in Lisbon on June 14. As the name suggests, it skips the most crowded hotspots in favor of lesser-visited coasts and islands. It suits curious travelers who’ve done the classic Mediterranean and want history, nature and food with fewer crowds. Early summer usually brings warm, settled weather.

Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage city and a memorable place to start. In Sicily, Agrigento is home to the Valley of the Temples, among the best-preserved Greek temples anywhere, and Palermo blends Arab, Norman and Baroque influences in its architecture and street food. Sardinia follows with Cagliari, a stretch of the Iglesiente Coast and San Pietro Island, and Alghero, a walled town with Catalan roots.

After a day at sea, Palma de Mallorca shows off its Gothic cathedral overlooking the bay. Almería, on Spain’s southeast coast, is topped by a Moorish fortress, the Alcazaba. Melilla, a Spanish city on the North African coast, is known for its modernist architecture, and Tangier, near where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, has a long, layered history. Portimão on Portugal’s Algarve coast is the last stop before Lisbon. Three sea days are spread through the voyage, and as an expedition-style trip, the itinerary can shift with weather.

Douglas Mawson is a small, purpose-built expedition ship more often found in polar waters, and Aurora brings that same style here, with an expert expedition team, Zodiac outings where conditions allow, and an emphasis on nature and culture rather than shopping. Ask us what’s included in your fare, as inclusions vary.

We can help you add time in Malta beforehand or Lisbon afterward. Share your dates and cabin preferences and we’ll check current fares and availability for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Morocco on a Mediterranean cruise?
It depends on your citizenship. Many visitors, including U.S. citizens, can currently enter Morocco visa-free for short stays, but rules change, so we’ll confirm before you travel.

How many sea days are on the Valletta to Lisbon voyage?
The itinerary includes three days at sea: after Palermo, after Alghero and after Palma de Mallorca. They’re good days to rest and attend the expedition team’s talks.

What’s the weather like in the western Mediterranean in early June?
Early June is usually warm and sunny, with comfortable sea temperatures and long days. It can be hot in southern Spain, so bring sun protection.