Mediterranean
A002 - Azura - 12 April 2010 for 16 nights
Shore excursions by port
Please note: The excursion(s) listed are typical for this port. During the 12 weeks before departure,
confirmed excursions can be viewed and pre-reserved via the Cruise Personaliser.
Meander through Mijas
Discover the maze of white-washed streets that make up the enchanting hilltop town of Mijas. The ‘Jewel’ of the Costa Del Sol.
Discover the maze of white-washed streets that make up the enchanting hilltop town of Mijas. The ‘Jewel’ of the Costa Del Sol.
Leaving the vibrant city of Malaga, the coach will head west through the Guadalhorce Valley – the most fertile valley of Malaga, packed full with lemons, oranges and olive plantations before arriving at Mijas. A typical Andalucian village, perched high above Fuengirola, Mijas enjoys spectacular views of the coast and surrounding heavily wooded mountains. Wander through the narrow, cobble-stoned streets of this pretty village and you will see why artists are attracted to this place, with its wonderful panoramic views over the Mediterranean.
You’ll have some free time to browse at leisure through the narrow cobble-stoned streets. Take a look inside the local craft and souvenir shops, many of which display the colourful, local pottery, or enjoy a spot of people watching whilst you enjoy a cool drink in a local cafe.
Marbella and Puerto Banus
Two famous names, conjuring up images of the ‘smart set’, are waiting to be discovered on this half-day tour.
Two famous names, conjuring up images of the ‘smart set’, are waiting to be discovered on this half-day tour.
Plunge into the past on your guided walk through the old quarter of Marbella with its picturesque narrow streets, whitewashed houses and heavy-grilled windows. See one of the most beautiful squares in Spain, the Plaza de los Naranjos - Orange Tree Square, enjoy a little free time to browse through the boutiques and shops. Continuing your guided tour you’ll pass by the City Hall and the Nuestra Senora de la Encarnacion Church. Once a small fishing village, Marbella is now a fashionable and sophisticated resort, frequented by the rich and famous.
Puerto Banus is a designer resort of recent recreation. The exclusive designer boutiques, restaurants and yacht marina reflect the wealth of its clientele. During your free time here, wander at leisure along the promenade and take time out to people-watch.
The drive from Malaga is approximately 1 hour and takes you along the coast, past the popular holiday resort of Fuengirola.
Granada and Alhambra
The Alhambra is described as 'the Jewel of Moorish Spain' and its beauty will overwhelm you.
The Alhambra is described as 'the Jewel of Moorish Spain' and its beauty will overwhelm you.
Lying in the foothills of Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the Alhambra is the ‘Palace of the Sultans’ and one of the world’s finest examples of Islamic Art. Although damaged and restored over the centuries, it is not difficult to picture the place as it was in all its glory 600 years ago. The ceilings drip with stalactites in stucco and each room appears more richly decorated than the previous one. Marvel at the delicate marble columns, graceful arcades and fine craftsmanship in the sultans’ ‘paradise on earth’.
The Generalife is a small Summer Palace, the highlight of which is its garden and numerous fountains. The stately cypress trees, trimmed flowerbeds, myrtle bushes and fountains provide good photo opportunities. The view from here is splendid, gaze down over the Sierra Nevada down to the Darro Valley and across to the old quarter of Albaycin.
During your tour, a delicious buffet lunch will be offered at a leading hotel in Granada.
Leisurely Malaga
An ideal introduction to Malaga - at a leisurely and relaxed pace.
An ideal introduction to Malaga - at a leisurely and relaxed pace.
Birthplace of Picasso, Malaga boasts pretty streets, leafy boulevards and lush gardens. Find out why the city's cathedral is called 'La Manquita' - the one armed lady! Hear all about the old palace fortress and its two rings of walls and learn why Arab geographers praised the city as an ‘earthly paradise’.
Your guide will bring the city to life, show you the main streets and places of interest, and explain all about its rich and chequered past.
You’ll see sub-tropical gardens and the bullring on the eastern side of the city. The coach will wind its way upwards to the Castle of Gibralfaro, ‘The Mountain of the Lighthouse’, for a short photo stop. You may opt to stretch your legs or remain on the coach.
Enjoy the street life of Malaga sitting on the terrace at a local café, whilst enjoying a tea, coffee or soft drink.
Cycle Andalucia
Cycle on paths and small roads, without heavy traffic, through the lush hilly landscapes, green river valleys and the wild countryside of a natural park.
Cycle on paths and small roads, without heavy traffic, through the lush hilly landscapes, green river valleys and the wild countryside of a natural park.
Setting off from Malaga by mini-van, you’ll begin to wind your way up the mountainside of the Montes de Malaga Natural Park. Sit back, relax and enjoy the superb views, keeping your eyes peeled along the way for the local wildlife, including deer, polecats and vultures.
After a short safety briefing, you will be supplied with your bike and safety equipment. You’ll be able to ride at your own pace so that you can admire the best viewpoints, flora, fauna and stop for photos along the way. Ease your way gently up the hills before descending steadily to the refreshment venue where you can take a well-earned rest. Admire the wonderful views of the Natural Park as you enjoy traditional ‘tapas‘ and a refreshing soft drink, tea or coffee.
A brief observation stop will be made to view the protected area of the Leonado Vultures.
Casa Picasso and Museum - SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Malaga - the birthplace of one of the 20th century’s most popular and contemporary artists, Pablo Picasso.
Malaga - the birthplace of one of the 20th century’s most popular and contemporary artists, Pablo Picasso.
Your walking tour will begin in the city’s old quarter at Picasso’s Birth House, as you wonder through the rooms your guide will bring to life Picasso’s early years. The people of Malaga are proud of the fact that Picasso was born in Malaga and on the 27th October 2003 the King and Queen of Spain inaugurated the long - awaited ‘Museo Picasso’.
Winding your way through the narrow streets you will head to Picasso’s Museum, the donation made by Picasso’s heirs, Christine and Bernard Ruiz-Picasso, became the cornerstone of this fantastic legacy, which constitute the Museum’s heart. The Museum chronologically represents the different stages in the work of Malaga’s favourite son. The 200 paintings, drawings, sculptures and etchings will provide a fascinating insight into the artist’s work.
What better way to end you tour than with a stop at a traditional bodega to enjoy a local sherry and tapas tasting before returning to the ship.
Sea Kayaking
It’s all about paddle power!
It’s all about paddle power!
Leaving the hustle and bustle of city life behind, head to the beach of Burriana in Nerja.
Upon arrival your guide will kit you out with your kayak, paddle and life vest, participants will be given a choice of double or individual kayaks, dependant on experience - novices are welcome. Before launching your kayak your guides will explain paddle techniques and the adventures that lie ahead.
Enjoy a unique perspective from the sea of the magnificent Nerja region and craggy cliffs of Maro. Numerous stops will be made en route to explain curiosities and elements of the landscape. Discover the small hidden caves, waterfalls and seagull habitat that can only be seen and enjoyed from a small craft, like a sea kayak.
Cool off in the crystal clear waters and discover some of the Mediterranean marine life.
Aqualand Waterpark
Come on – make a splash at Aqualand!
Come on – make a splash at Aqualand!
Take the plunge and head for Aqualand Waterpark in Torremolinos, the wettest and wildest waterpark. There’s something for everyone and you’re sure to enjoy a day of twisting, turning and splashing as you shoot down the slides and splash in the pools.
This year the park offers a new attraction: the “Boomerang”, it’s the most daring ride - don’t miss out. Try the Kamaikaze, it will have adults and children screeching with delight as you hurtle down the slide. The park also boasts an 18 hole crazy golf course for those wishing to stay on dry land.
Lunch has not been included in the fare, but can be purchased from the cafés within the Park.
The Best of Malaga
A cocktail of highlights featuring the best of Malaga’s sights.
A cocktail of highlights featuring the best of Malaga’s sights.
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city is the Gibralfaro Castle (external view), an 8th century Moorish castle, much of which still remains intact. A photo stop will be made to take in the magnificent panoramic views over the city, so don’t forget your camera.
A visit will be made to the Arabic Fortress of Alcazaba, perched high upon the hillside of the Gibralfaro Mountain and from where fine views of the African coastline can be enjoyed. Your guide will highlight how the Andalusian culture is ever-present within the Fortress, with its many fountains, channels and ponds. At the foot of this ancient Fortress, you can also view the excavated ruins of a Roman amphitheatre.
The tour continues with a walk to the birthplace and home of the 20th century’s most popular and contemporary artist – Pablo Picasso. Passing through the rooms of his house, your guide will bring to life Picasso’s early years and explain that, even as a toddler, Picasso began to draw his surroundings, which included pigeons and, bizarrely, Churros – a dough type pastry.
Leaving the birthplace of Picasso, enter a typical traditional bodega ‘El Pimpi’, where a glass of sherry and some olives will be served.
Selwo Marina Experience - NEW
Selwo Marine Park offers a combination of dolphins, sea lions, penguins and parrots all within one day.
Selwo Marine Park offers a combination of dolphins, sea lions, penguins and parrots all within one day.
At Selwo Marine Park you can discover the most exciting marine life in South America. A region of contrasts that begins in the warm Caribbean and takes you on to the ice lands of Antarctica.
Discover the only Dolphinarium and Ice Penguinarium in Andalusia, and enjoy the exclusive dolphin, sea lion and exotic bird shows. Amazonia a new habitat at Selwo Marina, will transport you to the fabled tropical jungle.
On Ice Island you can learn about how the King, Gentoo, Rockhopper and Magellan Penguins live from the most extensive range of penguin species in a zoological environment in Europe. A unique area to visit is the mangrove swamp where different species of tropical crocodiles awaiting for you.
An imaginatively designed children’s play area with slides, tunnels and caves is a great place for the children to explore. There are restaurants within the park to have a snack or lunch or a welcome break.
The Caves of Nerja - NEW
Journey into the underground world of stalagmites in the Caves of Nerja: a truly breathtaking experience.
Journey into the underground world of stalagmites in the Caves of Nerja: a truly breathtaking experience.
Discovered in 1959, the caves at Nerja boast the largest stalagmites in the world and a series of vast underground galleries.
Heading east towards Nerja, you will pass through the villages and towns of La Cala, Rincon de la Victoria and Torre del Mar, viewing some beautiful subtropical landscapes with sugar cane plantations, avocado groves and custard tree orchards along the way.
The caves boast the tallest stalagmites in the world, standing over 224 feet high, and contain immense underground galleries such as the Cataclysm Chamber, Hall of the Nativity and the Hall of the Cascade. It is said that humans inhabited the caves over 325,000 years ago.
During the tour you will also have a chance to photography one of the very few still working aqueducts within Europe. Afterwards, enjoy some free time in Nerja and visit the Balcon de Europa to take in the spectacular views along the rugged coastline of the Costas.
Guide to Symbols
Pop up symbol guide
Please note: The excursion(s) listed are typical for this port. During the 12 weeks before departure,
confirmed excursions can be viewed and pre-reserved via the Cruise Personaliser.
Pricing benefits
Prices shown are per person based on two adults sharing and include Early Bird Savings of between £115 to £241.
The Online Price shown includes an extra 5% discount.
Pricebreaker benefits
This cruise holiday is eligible for Pricebreaker benefits of:
What's included in the price?
Inside Single Stateroom
Sold out
Outside Single Stateroom
Sold out
Inside Stateroom
From £1,637 pp
Show all prices| Grade | Price | Online Price |
|---|
| OA | Sold out | Sold out |
| OB | £1,774 pp | £1,685 pp |
| OC | £1,734 pp | £1,647 pp |
|
*
OD | £1,723 pp | £1,637 pp |
| OE | Sold out | Sold out |
| OF | Sold out | Sold out |
| OG | Sold out | Sold out |
Outside Stateroom
From £2,079 pp
Show all prices| Grade | Price | Online Price |
|---|
| LB | £2,188 pp | £2,079 pp |
| LC | Sold out | Sold out |
Balcony Stateroom
From £2,193 pp
Show all prices| Grade | Price | Online Price |
|---|
| JA | £2,719 pp | £2,583 pp |
| JB | £2,639 pp | £2,507 pp |
| JC | £2,559 pp | £2,431 pp |
|
*
JD | £2,519 pp | £2,393 pp |
| JE | £2,479 pp | £2,355 pp |
| JF | £2,379 pp | £2,260 pp |
| JG | £2,308 pp | £2,193 pp |
Shared stateroom reductions
Single occupancy
Fare notes
Stateroom notes
* Spa Stateroom Package