Find trip

Welcome to Aurora’s Barcelona to Nice: A Mediterranean Canvas

The sun-kissed skies and famed sands of the Spanish and French rivieras have attracted artists for centuries, inspiring works that capture the very essence of this breathtaking stretch of coastline. A voyage in their footsteps promises to be as eccentric and eclectic as the region itself. From the modest studios of Cézanne, Gauguin, and Van Gogh to the Provençal hilltop retreats and opulent seaside villas of Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, and Dalí, their stories showcase the region's most popular and lesser-known treasures.

As we sail, you'll have the rare chance to create your own ‘Mediterranean Masterpiece,’ guided by our resident artist and onboard photographer. Whether you're a budding artist, an enthusiastic photographer or simply looking to inspire your imagination, you'll be encouraged to explore your creativity, all while indulging in the stunning scenery that has fuelled generations of artistic expression. Join us on this unforgettable journey, where you’ll not only discover the creative heart of the region but also craft your very own classic memory of the Mediterranean.

Create your own Mediterranean Masterpiece

**Sailing a coastline that has inspired generations of artists and the world's legendary paparazzi, we invite you to explore your own creativity with a series of relaxed onboard art and photography sessions. Join our guest Artistic Director or Resident Photographer for afternoon sessions held onboard, with time beforehand to enjoy a morning 'Your Choice' experience ashore. Whether you're sketching the scenery or styling your shots, you'll receive gentle guidance, helpful tips, and encouragement in a casual, welcoming environment. Each session is designed for budding artists and hobbyists alike, with the focus on enjoyment rather than perfection. Our photography workshops are designed to enhance your technique and inspire a more artistic, expressive approach to your shots.

Places are limited, and passengers may join one afternoon class per day (subject to availability) from Day 3 to Day 6. Spaces can be reserved through our passenger portal, which opens 60 days before departure. As places are limited, we kindly ask that you only book if you genuinely plan to attend so we can ensure as many aspiring artists and photographers as possible have the chance to take part. (Note: on occasion we offer full-day or half-day ‘Your Choice’ experiences due to distances or opening times. These excursions may not return to the ship in time to join an art session).

Highlights

Visit museums, studios and galleries dedicated to iconic impressionists, fauvists, surrealists, modernists and Renaissance artists
Stroll streets laden with works of art in Barcelona, Marseille, Monaco, Florence, Pisa and Nice
Discover towns, villages and sites that inspired the world’s favourite artists
Awaken your creative talent during our onboard art and photography classes with guidance and encouragement from our Artistic Director and resident professional photographer**

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.