Ships

L’Austral

State-of-the-Art Design

The highly acclaimed m.s. L’ Austral represents the newest generation of Five-Star small ships, featuring only 110 Suites and Staterooms, distinctive French sophistication and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.

Elegantly appointed Suites and Staterooms, 95% with Private Balconies

Each air-conditioned deluxe Stateroom and Suite (200 to 484 square feet), features a private bathroom with shower, luxurious Five‑Star hotel amenities and minibar with complimentary beverages; most have two twin beds that convert to one queen bed. Enjoy accommodation amenities including individual climate control, satellite flat‑screen television, safe, full-length closet, writing desk/dressing table, plush robes and slippers.

Chic and Casual Dining

International and regional cuisine is served in the stylish, spacious Le Coromandel dining room in single, unassigned seatings; alfresco in the casual Le Rodrigues Restaurant; or from 24‑hour room service. Complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages are served throughout the cruise. Continental and buffet breakfasts, buffet lunch, afternoon tea and a four‑course dinner are served daily.

Spacious Public Areas/World-Class Service and Facilities

In keeping with the low passenger density, the public areas are spacious and inviting, and they can accommodate all passengers comfortably. Enjoy views from the Panoramic Lounge; nightly entertainment in the Main Lounge; and lectures, cultural performances or film screenings in the state‑of‑the‑art theater. There is a library, Internet salon, Sun Deck, swimming pool, beauty salon, spa, Turkish bath‑style steam room, full range of fitness equipment, two elevators and an infirmary staffed with a doctor and nurse. The highly trained and personable, English‑speaking, international crew provides attentive service.

Respect for the Environment

The state-of-the-art propulsion system and custom-built stabilizers provide an exceptionally smooth, quiet and comfortable voyage. By design, each ship is energy efficient and environmentally protective of marine ecosystems and has been awarded the prestigious “Clean Ship” rating, an extreme rarity among ocean-cruising vessels. Each ship has two tenders.

Deck Plan


For reservations or questions, please email us at aia@studytours.org (and include your full name) or call us toll-free at (800) 748-6262 (toll: 603-756-2884). To reserve your space using the online form, click here.

support Us

The AIA is North America's largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to archaeology. The Institute advances awareness, education, fieldwork, preservation, publication, and research of archaeological sites and cultural heritage throughout the world. Your contribution makes a difference.