Around the world cruise

About Pago Pago

So good they named it twice, the South Pacifics Pago Pago (pronounced Pango Pango) is both the name of the harbour which cuts fjord-like into American Samoas main island of Tutuila and also for the village at its western end.

But the larger, more interesting town is Fagotago at the eastern end.  Look out for an excellent natural history museum and the lively public market.  Also, just outside Fagatago is the former guesthouse where Somerset Maugham created his most famous character, Sadie Thompson in ‘Rain’.

Away from Pago Pago on this snaking, Chinese dragon-shaped island you will find the most spectacular mountain and coastal scenery of any South Pacific island plus some superb beaches.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Adelaide

The first thing to say about the easy-going South Australian city of Adelaide, which sits at the mouth of the Torrens River, is that it is a gourmet’s delight with a huge range of restaurants and cafés. Food and wine should always be high on the agenda for any cruise visitor to this European-influenced gateway to the outback.

Hot, dry summers (our winters) give the city an almost Mediterranean feel as people spill out onto the streets enjoying outdoor dining or wandering through the impressive Botanical Gardens, location of the Bicentennial Conservatory, the largest glasshouse in Australia. Another highlight of Adelaide cruises is the South Australian Museum, with the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal artefacts, well worth to visit.

From Adelaide, your cruise tour leads you to the wineries along the Murray River and Barossa Valleys – prime grape-growing regions. Only an hour away from the centre of the city, they make for fascinating side trips. You can also catch the ferry across the bay to Kangaroo Island where kangaroo, wallabies, koalas and platypuses can be viewed in their natural habitats.  More can be seen at the Cleland Wildlife Park and in the Coorong National Park.

With such a variety of destinations, cruises to Adelaide deliver all the adventure associated with experiencing a rich and varied culture.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Brisbane

Classic Australian pastimes such as surfing and swimming from sensational beaches – that is what you will find on the coastline surrounding Queensland’s capital and cruise port Brisbane. Cruises here bring to your holiday a balance of both nature and elegant grounds.

To the south are the high-rise hotels which make up the exciting Surfers’ Paradise and Gold Coast resorts, while to the north there is the beautiful and more sedate Sunshine Coast.

Cultural attractions in downtown Brisbane are located in and around the South Bank Parklands by the Brisbane River – site of the 1988 World Expo. In close proximity you will discover the Queensland Museum and the State Art Gallery, which features many Aboriginal works. Shore excursions from our cruises to Brisbane also include the Butterfly House and Maritime Museum.

The best shopping can be found at the Myer Centre complex on the city’s central commercial artery, Queen Street. While enjoying your Brisbane cruise walk south to admire the fine architecture around the former Treasury building and then discover the imaginatively landscaped Botanic Gardens. View typical shore excursions for this port

About Fremantle

Fremantle is the gateway to the western Australia capital – Perth. Perth has a distinctly relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with large areas of parkland leading down to the Swan River and easy access to the ocean. Remarkably, this Australian city is almost as close to Singapore as it is to Sydney which goes to demonstrate the vastness of this under-populated and still-untamed country.

Youthful, leisure-biased Perth is blessed with a temperate climate and its modern city centre is easy to walk around with many pedestrian-only shopping streets. Perth Zoo, home to much local wildlife, is worth a visit as is Kings Park, which is ideal for cycling and picnics.

Alternatively enjoy the yachting mecca that is Fremantle, head across to the holiday island of Rottnest for diving, snorkelling or plain sunbathing, or go on a tasting tour of the Swan Valley wineries – the choice is yours. View typical shore excursions for this port

About Melbourne

Cruises to cosmopolitan Melbourne, which is Australia’s second largest city, bring into your holiday a combination of distinctly European feel with the home country’s celebration of the outdoor life.

Set on the Yarra River and close to national parks and beaches, the city certainly loves its sport from Australian Rules Football and cricket to horse racing and grand prix motor-racing.

While, for culture-vultures, Melbourne cruise must-visits include the Victorian Arts Centre with its magnificent concert and theatre complex allied to the National Gallery housing Australia’s greatest collection of fine art; and the Melbourne Museum, the largest in the country with fascinating displays of Aboriginal artefacts.

One of the best ways to get an immediate feel for the city is to jump on a vintage tram which will rattle you around the key sights in the city centre.  Cruises to Melbourne also benefit from the town’s hugely diverse cultural mix which makes for an incredible variety of cuisine, from Greek and Spanish to Chinese and Vietnamese. Many also operate a BYO (Bring Your Own) policy, allowing diners to buy their favourite tipple cheaply elsewhere and then take it in to drink with their restaurant meal.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Perth

The western Australia capital of Perth has a distinctly relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with large areas of parkland leading down to the Swan River and easy access to the ocean.  Remarkably, this Australian city is almost as close to Singapore as it is to Sydney which goes to demonstrate the vastness of this under-populated and still-untamed country, as you will discover on our cruises to Perth.

Youthful, leisure-biased Perth is blessed with a temperate climate and its modern city centre is easy to walk around with many pedestrian-only shopping streets. Perth cruise passengers should visit the Perth Zoo, home to much local wildlife, as well as Kings Park, which is ideal for cycling and picnics.

Alternatively, Perth cruises take you down river to the yachting mecca of Fremantle, or you can head across to the holiday island of Rottnest for diving, snorkelling or plain sunbathing, or go on a tasting tour of the Swan Valley wineries – the choice is yours.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Sydney

One of the world’s great cities and harbours, Sydney always lives up to great expectations. When you are on one of our Sydney cruises, the first glimpse of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House will stay in your memory forever.

Even before the 2000 Olympics, cruises to Sydney had much to offer – hosting the games just made the city even better with improved facilities and extra dining and entertainment venues all round.

From the waterside restaurants fringing the historic Rocks district, the Sydney cruise tour takes you around Sydney Cove past the Circular Quay ferry terminal to that remarkable Opera House and the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Whitsunday Islands

Fabulous beaches, tropical forests, amazing swimming and snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef – the Whitsunday Islands are the perfect cruise holiday islands.

Situated south of Townsville and off the coast of tropical North Queensland, Whitsunday Islands cruises offer the perfect place for pure relaxation.

Named by Captain Cook in 1770, the Whitsunday’s number more than 20 islands, many uninhabited. Whitsunday is the largest, followed by Hook, but Hayman to the north and Hamilton to the south are the most developed. Beautiful white sand beaches are an idyllic setting for swimming and sunbathing while the resorts on Hamilton, Hayman and Lindeman islands provide superb retreats. With such a variety of islands, cruises to the Whitsunday Island will offer your holiday a combination of both nature and elegant grounds.

Catamarans, sailing boats and large yachts weave their way between the islands – many offering snorkelling, diving and whale-watching trips. Ferries provide a lifeline and are a great way to island hop while soaking up the sun.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Sihanoukville

Situated on the southern coast of Cambodia, sits the colourful Sihanoukville. This cruise destination, also known as Kampong Saom, is renowned for its long white beaches, fringed by pine trees.

Many lazy hours can be spent on Sihanoukville cruises, relaxing in the sun and gazing out to the nearby Gulf of Thailand. Ochheuteal Beach is one of the most beautiful and far stretching, so much so that it is almost deserted in places. View typical shore excursions for this port

About Tenerife

Visiting the largest of the Canary Islands, our Tenerife cruises bring you close to one of the world’s most dramatic and varied landscapes, ranging from verdant valleys and lush plantations to glorious beaches, vast pinewoods and the volcanic `moonscape’ of Mount Teide National Park.

Tenerife’s cruise port Santa Cruz has grown from a fishing village to a splendid city with classy bars and restaurants, varied shops, fine architecture and interesting museums.

With our cruises to Tenerife the action begins right outside the port gates, where you will find a café-lined boulevard leading to the Plaza de Espana, at the heart of the port’s main shopping area. Look out for bargain electrical goods and cut-price CDs, Tenerife’s speciality.

Prefer museums and galleries? Try the Museo de Bellas Artes, which contains works by Bruegel, or discover the island’s history, topography, flora and fauna at the Museo de la Naturaleza y El Hombre.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Hong Kong

Hong Kong may boast some 236 islands but most of the five million inhabitants of this former British Crown Colony are concentrated on just one, Hong Kong Island, and one city, Kowloon, on the facing peninsula. It is known as one of the most crowded and vibrant places in the world, making Hong King cruises a must see.

Be energised just walking down its teeming streets where you can buy anything from a handmade suit, fancy jewellery and the latest duty-free electronic gizmos to Asian antiques.

Also part of our cruises to Hong Kong is a journey between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island with Star Ferry, which gives you the experience of the world’s busiest crossings.

For one of the steepest journeys, try the tram which travels to the top of Victoria Peak, 1,300ft above the harbour. And for the ultimate taste sensation on your Hong Kong cruise, head for Aberdeens floating restaurants featuring every kind of Asian cuisine.

View typical shore excursions for this port

About Shanghai

Once known as the Paris of the East, Shanghai now calls itself the Pearl of the Orient. It is China’s largest and most cosmopolitan city and no other city can better capture the urgency and excitement of Chinas economic reform.

A port city, lying at the mouth of Asias longest and most important river, the Yangtze, Shanghai’s spectacular architecture is catching the worlds attention. Charming old houses are making way for new museums, theatres and shiny new high-rises. But there is a comfortable blend of modern and traditional.

You can admire the exquisite Yu Garden with its Teahouse and Bridge of Nine Turnings or the Temple of the Jade Buddha. At the Shanghai Museum, you can peruse its works of art, which simultaneously draw you through the pages of Chinese history. But today in Shanghai, you can also enjoy the fast-paced lives of Chinas most glamorous, cosmopolitan and open people.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Xingang

Beijing is a microcosm of modern China and all its contradictions. From the architecturally magnificent Forbidden City, the capital spreads outwards in concentric rings, the streets bustling with its vast populace. Huge avenues lined with towering skyscrapers and vaulting flyovers crisscross with old alleyways, temples and palaces.

Xingang cruises have so much to offer, you can but dip your toes into the culture and sights; the elegant grounds of the Summer Palace, the stately buildings of Tiananmen Square. For a different experience forego the city for The Great Wall which snakes, magnificently, through the surrounding countryside, desert, hills and plains. With such a variety of places to explore, cruises to Xingang will bring you a new concept of holiday. View typical shore excursions for this port

About Aruba

Talcum-soft beaches, world class shopping, glitzy casinos, stunning sea views and tracts of desert landscape scattered with giant boulders and exotic cacti are all yours to enjoy when you visit popular Aruba, jewel of the ‘deep’ Caribbean.

And you will find most of these attractions without straying far from the capital and cruise port, Oranjestad, a waterfront city endowed with a cosmopolitan population – of Portuguese, Spanish, Venezuelan, Indian, Pakistani and African as well as Dutch origin.

This cultural mix makes Oranjestad heaven for adventurous foodies and a great place to `shop the world’ as you can pick up Delft china, Dutch cheese, Danish silverware and Madeiran embroidery at low prices.

For local colour, visit Schooner Harbour, which is crammed with brightly painted boats and craft stalls, and Willemstad, famed for its 16th century Dutch houses.

And water babies will love Eagle Beach, Palm Beach and Baby Beach, all a short distance from the port.

View typical shore excursions for this port

About Curacao

The largest island in the Dutch Antilles, Curacao is home to more than 50 nationalities so has a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Its lovely capital and cruise port, Willemstad, is full of 17th, 18th and 19th century Dutch and Spanish Colonial architecture.

The two sides of the city are divided by Santa Anna Bay, a narrow channel flanked by pastel-tinted, gabled houses and spanned by the spectacular swing-aside Queen Emma pontoon bridge.

On one side you will find the 18th century Fort Amsterdam and Breederstraat, gateway to Willemstad’s main shopping and restaurant district where you can buy everything from Delft pottery to Italian silk ties, Japanese electrical goods, Indonesian batik clothing, locally-made black coral jewellery and, of course, the sapphire-blue liqueur to which Curacao has given its name.

Also worth a visit is the Floating Market, lined with boats from Colombia, Venezuela and other Caribbean islands selling colourful local produce and handicrafts.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Port Said

Take any cruise with Egypt on the schedule and you are guaranteed a fascinating time, for this North African country is the portal to wonders dating from the dawn of civilisation as you will discover on one of our Port Said cruises.

Cruises to Port Said, at the head of the Suez Canal, take you one step closer to Cairo. Egypt’s largest city is a maelstrom of traffic, glorious mosques and palaces and bazaars, where shopping is excellent - as long as you bargain, haggle and then haggle again!

Cairo also offers a fascinating selection of museums - the most famous being the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, which holds more than 100,000 relics and the Archaeological Museum, where you can gaze upon the face of Tutankhamun, the boy king.

Just outside the city is one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world - the Pyramids at Giza. Their sheer size, scale and age will amaze you, as will the enigmatic glance of their nearby guardian – the 65 ft high Sphinx.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Safaga

Arriving at Egypts Red Sea cruise port Safaga is an understated start to a day, which will forever live in your memory. For this quiet and otherwise unremarkable port town is your entry into upper Egypt and the very heart of the countrys existence - the Nile.

This great river will also take you to some of Egypt’s most fascinating antiquities. You can explore the lavish tombs, temples and palaces of the pharaohs in the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, Karnak and Luxor (once Ancient Thebes).

The huge and magnificent Karnak Temple complex is awe-inspiring. The rich detail in the wall paintings of the tombs depicts the unworldly lives of the Pharaohs and will take your breath away. The spectacular sound and light show at the Karnak Temple is rightly legendary, however, it is held at night and only available to passengers who opt for the overland tours.

Safaga is also close to the Egyptian beach resort of Hurghada and the clear waters along this coastline are rated among the worlds best sites for diving.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Sharm El Sheikh

A fast-developing Egyptian beach resort, Sharm el Sheikh has become a popular Red Sea cruise call, too. On the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Straits of Tiran, the sheltered waters are simply crystal clear and just asking to be swum, snorkelled or dived in from the pristine, sandy beaches. There are a variety of glass-bottomed and other boat trips on offer, too.

Even better for snorkellers and divers is the Marine National Park, the first in the Red Sea, at nearby Ras Mohammed. Here there are coral reefs and gardens which attract just the most beautiful exotic fish. Other visitors will want to visit St Catherines Monastery in the foothills of Mount Sinai where Moses received the Ten Commandments.  Founded in the 6th Century, it is the oldest Christian monastery in the world.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Suez

Lying at the Red Sea end of the Suez Canal, the busy Egyptian port of Suez can also be your starting point for exciting trips to Cairo and the Pyramids at Giza.

If your ship goes through the Canal, be out on deck throughout the transit, as it is one of the world’s most fascinating maritime experiences, creating the bizarre impression that you are sailing right through the dry heart of the desert.

The present, 101-mile-long Canal took 15 years to build, was completed in 1869 and shaved a mere 7,000 miles off the journey from England to India. It is the second to cross the Isthmus of Suez – the first was constructed in the 5th century BC and was in use until the 8th century.

Even if your ship is just calling at Suez, it is well worth strolling along the Corniche to watch the huge ships lined up to transit the Canal on their way to the other side of the world.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Athens

The Acropolis – ‘High City’ - will always be the top attraction from Athens cruise port Piraeus.

With its 2,500-year-old Parthenon, temple to Poseidon and Athena, Odeon of Herodus Atticus and Theatre of Dionysus, it quite literally stands out as an oasis of calm in the frenetic Greek capital.

As part of the major revamp the city had for the 2004 Olympics, 400 modern buildings were cleared from the ancient meeting place next to the Acropolis, the Agora, which was then restored and linked by walkways to the Acropolis, Hadrians Arch, the Academy of Plato and the Monastery of Daphne.

Other nearby ancient sites include the Roman Tower of the Winds and the Hill of the Muses where Socrates is said to have drunk hemlock. Below the Acropolis is the fun place to shop or barter, eat moussaka or Greek salad, drink wine or ouzo and, of course, to people-watch: the 3,000-year-old Plaka.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Honolulu, Hawaii

If you associate Hawaii with flower garlands, grass-skirted hula dancers, fabulous beaches and spectacular volcanic scenery, a call at the capital and main Hawaiian cruise port, Honolulu, will more than live up to your expectations.

With its alfresco, whitewashed shopping malls, elegant hotels and magnificent Waikiki Bay, this city is hedonism personified. You can spend a perfect day ashore browsing the designer boutiques and enjoying a lazy lunch in a waterfront hotel garden before retiring to the soft sands and warm waves that surround the island.

And if that is not enough, there are plenty of other things to do – including tours to historic Pearl Harbour or lovely Waimea Falls Park, where you can watch daredevil locals diving from the towering cliffs which surround the spectacular waterfall into the churning waters below.

If you are feeling daring yourself, you can also take a flight over the island’s stunning volcanic scenery in a helicopter or a light plane.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Cochin

The view of the harbour is immediately recognisable even if you have never cruised to this uniquely picturesque Indian port before. For the lines of fishing nets gracefully hanging down from bamboo frames along the waterfront have inspired artists and hotographers ever since this Chinese fishing style was imported into Indias Kerala region.

It is a magical welcome to a mystical place, especially its old town - Fort Kochi (Cochin). This not only has a 16th century Portuguese-built church but a 17th century synagogue for the small community that still remains from the Jewish settlers who arrived 2,000 years ago.

There is a bustling new town, Emakulam, too, but you probably still want to spend most of your time moving through the network of canals leading off the Vembavad Lake on which Cochin sits. On their banks and across their bridges, fishermen and their families live much as they have done for centuries.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Mumbai

Gateway to one of the world’s most vibrant cities, India’s cruise port Mumbai (formerly Bombay) offers so many memorable experiences it is hard to know where to begin.Perhaps a stroll along Marine Drive, the broad seafront promenade, which links the skyscrapers and bustle of Nariman Point with the serene greenery of Malabar Hill, is the best introduction to the sheer variety of this fascinating city.

Or climb to the top of Malabar Hill to visit the terraced Ferozeshah Mehta Gardens, which overlook the Arabian Sea and the famous Towers of Silence. Then make your way to Crawford’s Market (now Jyotiba Phulle), which will take you back in time to Victorian days - the frieze above its entrance was designed by Rudyard Kipling’s father, and Rudyard’s childhood home lies right opposite.

Bargain hunters should not miss the famous Chor Bazaar and the antique shops of Motton Street at its heart, where you can pick up fabulous memorabilia – and do not be afraid to bargain.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Rome

Standing in the Colosseum, visiting Vatican City and tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain are all unique experiences of a lifetime to be had in the Eternal City of Rome, reached from your Italian cruise port Civitavecchia.

Rome’s breathtaking monuments, palaces, churches and classical features are quite unlike anything you will find in any other European city. They will always leave you wanting to come back for more – hence the coin-tossing, which is said to guarantee your return.

The city’s other must-sees include the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon (probably the most complete ancient Roman building in the city) and the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s masterpieces.

While steeped in history, Rome is also a modern, bustling city with modern designer shops and chic boutiques at every turn. Reasonably priced department stores selling all the latest fashions can be found in the many pedestrianised shopping streets, while restaurants and cafés spill out onto piazzas offering authentic Italian dishes and sensational ice cream.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Hiroshima

Since the atomic blast on 6 August 1945, Hiroshima has undergone a remarkable rebirth. The Peace Memorial Park, located around the blast epicentre, has been built to commemorate the devastating explosion and to promote a peaceful world. The Atomic Bomb Dome, the city’s last remaining bomb-damaged building, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Regarded as one of Japan’s top three scenic views, why not visit nearby Miyajima Island, famed for its Itsukushima Shrine and floating tori monument? On our cruises to Hiroshima you can also enjoy a gentle stroll through Shukkeien, literally meaning ‘shrink scenery garden’, a lovely Japanese style garden originally constructed in the 17th century, making Hiroshima cruises a must.

View typical shore excursions for this port

About Aqaba

The Jordanian town of Aqaba nestles at the top of the Gulf of Aqaba which leads off the Red Sea. Boasting some excellent sandy beaches and one of the worlds best-preserved coral reefs, this is a popular resort with divers. But the main attraction of this area is the magnificent fortress city of Petra, buried by sand for more than 2,000 years until it was discovered in the desert near Aqaba in the 19th century and excavated in the 1950s.

Originally built by Bedouin, the ‘rose red’ city of Petra is a genuine wonder of the world. Make a dramatic entrance by walking through the Siq (gorge) up to the imposing Treasury with its exquisite facade. Further on are temples, tombs and a huge theatre. Elsewhere, visit Wadi Rum, a vast silent landscape of sandstone mountains, desert and ancient bedrocks.
View typical shore excursions for this port

About St. Maarten

Half French and half Dutch, St. Martin/Sint Maarten is one of the Caribbean’s most diverse and interesting islands.

Ships dock at the Dutch capital Philipsburg, a delightful warren of narrow streets called steegjies, where you will find interesting shops and leafy courtyard cafés. Start your exploration at Wathey Square, which is home to a fine collection of traditional West Indian ‘gingerbread’ houses as well as a colourful market.

If you would prefer to enjoy a little French ‘je ne sais quoi’, take an island tour to the pretty French capital Marigot, worth visiting for its colourful markets, lovely café-lined waterfront and the chic boutiques of Marina Port La Royale, where you can pick up unusual jewellery and leather goods. Or spend your day on a catamaran trip from Philipsburg for fabulous deep-sea snorkelling with lunch.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Reunion

Located in the Indian Ocean just east of Madagascar is the island of Reunion – this cruise destination reveals a haven of French culture and home to a wildly mountainous countryside. Discovered by the Portuguese, today the population is an interesting mix of ethnic and religious variety – from the French to the Africans, Malays and Indians.

Born of volcanic origin the island is popular for an abundance of natural attractions. On our cruises to Reunion highlights include the peaks of the still-active Piton de la Fournaise, and Piton des Neiges, the islands highest point. Southwest of the mountains you will find the collapsed calderas of Cirque de Salazie, Cirque de Cilaos and Cirque de Mafate.

On Reunion cruises you can visit the capital Saint-Denis and enjoy its brassieres, bistros and continental café culture or swim in the lagoons of St-Gilles-les Bains. Garden lovers will delight in the Domaine du Grand Hazier, an 18th century sugar planters residence displaying a variety of tropical flowers and fruit trees.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Madeira

When you embark on one of our Madeira cruises it will become clear why this destination is known as the Garden Island - it is simply awash with colour from a breathtaking display of sub-tropical plants and flowers. So it is hardly surprising that large and colourful flower markets are one of the most arresting features of Funchal, Madeiras capital.

Cruise visitors here will discover that the market town is easily walkable although, the further inland you explore, the steeper and narrower some of the streets become. Locally made wicker furniture, lacework and tapestries all make good buys along with the ubiquitous Madeira wine.

Funchal is also the base for tours to the islands botanical gardens; the fishing village of Camara de Lobos where Churchill went to paint; Camacha, the wicker centre; the levada walks, part of an ancient irrigation system; and to Reids Hotel for traditional afternoon tea, making cruises to Madeira a must see.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Palma

Dominated by its iconic Gothic cathedral, the Majorcan capital and cruise port Palma has been transformed in recent years into one of the most sophisticated hotspots of the Mediterranean. Fine shops rub shoulders with authentic Balearic restaurants and tapas bars in this easy to navigate city.

From the harbour filled with expensive yachts, wander up to the magnificent cathedral and stand in awe when you realise it took 500 years to complete. Spreading out around this ancient structure with its impressive views is a collection of side streets and alleys which give a sense of the city’s cultural past and Moorish influences.

Walking from the old town you reach the thoroughfare of Passeig d’es Born with its many cafés where you can sample freshly baked spiral pastries called ensaimadas, a local speciality. It is also well worth exploring the unusual circular Castell de Bellver, overlooking the bay to the west.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Kota Kinabalu

When you call at Malaysia on a Kota Kinabalu cruise destination, you may be surprised to find yourself on the mysterious island of Borneo.  That is because Malaysia comprises not just the former Malaya peninsula, but two states in Northern Borneo as well - Sabah, the capital of which is Kota Kinabalu, and Sarawak.

Once called Jesseltown and largely rebuilt after World War II, Kota Kinabalu is now a cosmopolitan city of Malays, Indonesians, Indians, Chinese and Filipinos. With plenty to see and do, Kota Kinabalu cruises feature a wide range of shore excursions. The many interesting sites include the State Mosque with its 216ft-high minarets, the Sabah Museum and the outdoor market at Kampong Ayer Square.

As well as encompassing the towering 13,500ft Mount Kinabalu, the Kinabalu National Park contains a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including everything from rare orchids to deer and monkeys. There are also superb beaches at the nearby Tanjung Aru resort and fascinating tours to the stilted villages of the descendants of the head-hunter tribes, who gave Borneo its once fearsome reputation.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Kuala Lumpur

Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur may have got its name - meaning ‘muddy confluence’ - from the two rivers which meet in its centre, but cruise ships must dock at the deepwater cruise port Kelang, which is 90 minutes drive away.

This, though, is good news for Kuala Lumpur cruise visitors because along the way to the capital, you not only see the magnificent Salahuddin ‘Blue’ Mosque - the largest in southeast Asia with room for 16,000 worshippers - but also visit the Batu Caves where a stone staircase with 272 steps leads up to a Hindu Shrine. If you make the effort, you are rewarded with the company of scores of monkeys which live around the caves.

KL - as the capital is known throughout Malaysia - is a mixture of modern buildings (including the world famous Petronas Towers) and fascinating historic districts like Chinatown. While you are enjoying one of our cruises to Kuala Lumpur, it is well worth a visit to The National Museum as it tells the entertaining story of KL and Malaysian history.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Langkawi

Magnificent beaches, mystical folklore and majestic jungle covered hills make Langkawi one of Malaysia’s most popular tropical destinations.

Made up of a cluster of around 99 islands separated from the mainland by the Straits of Malacca this attractive archipelago was once a sanctuary for pirates. Today its hidden coves and deserted beaches remain beautifully unspoilt.

Pulau Langkawi is the largest island and is home to craggy mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, ancient caves and crystal clear lakes. Kuah, the main town, is great for a spot of duty free shopping and nearby you can make your way to Mahsuris Mausoleum – a shine erected in honor of Mahsuri, a beautiful maiden who was unjustly accused of adultery.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Penang

The reason exotic Malaysian cruise port Penang leaves such a lasting impression on visitors becomes clear when you visit its National Museum. Superbly laid out with some sumptuous exhibits, it portrays the rich history of the town and of the many and varied peoples and cultures which have played a part in its development:  Malays, Chinese, Indian, British - even Armenians.

This multi-cultural heritage makes it a fascinating place to walk around. The town centre, Georgetown, is full of interesting shops and lively markets (including a night bazaar) but, although it is also Malaysias top beach resort, there is no question about Penangs major attraction: the Snake Temple.

This is full of still-poisonous reptiles but they are so sedated by the temple incense that they spend all their time dozing and are - they say - no danger to visitors. Look out, too, for the Key Lok Si, the largest and reputedly the finest Buddhist Temple in south east Asia.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Mauritius

Strict government controls here have ensured that this idyllic island has retained its charm.

No building can rise higher than the indigenous palm trees and the number of visitors is restricted to maintain the atmosphere of unspoiled paradise.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Walvis Bay

Pretty Walvis Bay only returned to Namibia’s control in 1995, after years spent as part of the South African Union. It was a welcome return for the Namibians due it being the only deep-water harbour on their coast, and also a major fishing town and prime production area for sea salt – its 3,500 hectares of salt flats produce 400,000 tons every year.

Though the town is well-endowed with restaurants, bars and shops, nature is the big attraction of Walvis Bay; this cruise destination’s lagoon, salt flats and sand dunes are home to a fabulous array of bird life including pelicans and flamingoes. On our cruises to Walvis Bay you can see the region at its best from the top of Dune Seven – the highest in the region making Walvis Bay cruises a must see.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Auckland

New Zealand’s biggest city and major cruise port, Auckland, sits between the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea, which is how it came to host the America’s Cup twice - in 1999 and 2002 - attracting investment to transform the harbour side into a superb meeting and eating place which all Auckland cruise visitors can now appreciate.

The Viaduct Harbour area now boasts outdoor restaurants ideally placed to view the hundreds of yachts attracted to this icon of sailing success. This ‘City of Sails’ is also home to New Zealand’s impressive National Maritime Museum which charts the nation’s seafaring history.

Harbour ferries offer a great way of viewing the city, either by crossing the bay to old-established Devonport or under the harbour bridge to the suburb of Birkenhead.  Otherwise cruises to Auckland take in all the sights from the revolving restaurant at the top of the Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the southern hemisphere at 328 metres. On Auckland cruises, shore excursions can take you to the remarkable geysers and mud pools of Rotorua.View typical shore excursions for this port

About the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands cruise destination is New Zealand’s finest maritime park and comprises 144 islands, myriad bays and beaches around the coastline.

The Bay, with its subtropical climate and pristine natural environment, has an abundance of marine life, including the big marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and many other species. And although it’s an aquatic playground for adventure activities and escapist relaxation, much of Northlands extensive coastline remains unspoilt.

The maritime and historic park is the original cradle of local European civilization, but it also boasts fine examples of the fascinating Maori culture. Cruises to Bay of Islands also include tours to several museums filled with fine examples of European and Maori history, which provide a unique insight into colonial New Zealand. In fact, you will find that the Maori culture is still very much alive in this region, as 32 percent of the population is Maori. The shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities that stem from this distinctive local culture, which embraces art, creativity, organic farming and alternative thinking, is quite unique, making Bay of Islands cruises a must see.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Muscat

The Sultanate of Oman’s capital, Muscat, has a magical feel. It is a combination of stunning deserts, mountains and beaches with all the comforts of a bustling, modern metropolis. It’s also the meeting point of Asian, African and Arabic civilizations and this unique blend of cultures makes Oman a special place to visit and explore.

The old port area, which is enclosed by gated walls, is where you will find the Sultan’s Main Palace, a fascinating place to wander around. Two well-preserved 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Mirani, guard the entrance to Muscat, and the city walls contain the original beautifully carved gates.

Muscat has many points of interest, so whether you want to explore natural freshwater pools, parks and nature reserves, shop in one of the many excellent souks, or relax on unspoilt, soft sandy beaches, this city has something for everyone.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Salalah

A real city of contrasts, Salalah combines the charms of contemporary resort life with older Arabic influences to dramatic effect. From its ancient ruins and abundance of frankincense to its stunning beaches and soaring mountainous landscape, there is a wealth of attractions and traditions to explore.

Many famous and fabled historic figures are reputed to have resided in the city. Visit the resting place of the biblical prophet, Job, or peruse the once palace of the Queen of Sheba. Salalah’s antiquity can be enjoyed further by a stroll through the lost city of Samhuran or crumbling remains of Al Blaid, which date as far back as the 12th century.

The natural beauty that surrounds the city is a pleasant surprise. For its desert location it is blessed with a temperate climate, which allows its lush green countryside to flourish. See the springs of Ain Sahnot or Ain Rzat, follow one of its many mountain streams or admire the impressive heights of the Jabal al Qar.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Papeete

Although this gorgeous South Pacific island of Tahiti has its share of beautiful coves, black sand, and lush, unspoilt mountainous landscapes full of cascading waterfalls and dramatic coastal blowholes, do not expect some kind of laid-back desert(ed) island settlement when you cruise into the main port and capital, Papeete.

One stroll around its harbour-full of private yachts, across roads packed with expensive cars, or past its streets-full of chic boutiques, designer label stores and pulsating bars and nightclubs, and you could believe yourself to be in the French Caribbean or even the French Riviera.

It is a lot of fun, though.  Especially around the cosmopolitan city market which is permanently busy with Tahitian, French, Indian, and Chinese furiously trading their wares. As it was his enthusiastic portrayal of Polynesian beauty that contributed so much to our knowledge and appreciation of Tahiti, a visit to the Paul Gauguin museum (and botanical garden) in Port Phaeton is always popular.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Singapore

Cruises to Singapore have much to offer. The city’s glorious parks have earned it a reputation as the Garden City of the Far East but you will also be cruising into one of the world’s busiest ports.

Once ashore, Singapore cruise passengers can enjoy a stroll through the famous Tiger Balm Gardens with its statues of characters from Chinese legend peeping out from the trees. Ornithologists will love the Jurong Bird Park, with its elaborate aviaries, waterfalls and restaurants, while East Coast Park offers hiking and cycling tracks, a marine theme park and beach water sports.

This vibrant city is also heaven for shoppers, as you will discover on our Singapore cruises. Head for Orchard Road for bargains on international brands, or soak up some local atmosphere and sample foodie treats while you browse the craft and souvenir stalls of Chinatown, Little India and Mosque Street.

For fake designer bargains, haggle your way around Bugis Street market. But don’t forget to leave time for a Singapore Sling amid the colonial splendours of the famous Raffles Hotel.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Cape Town

Few cities are blessed with a setting as spectacular as Cape Town, nestling as it does in the foothills of the 3,000ft flat-topped Table Mountain, just a few miles from the southern tip of Africa - the Cape of Good Hope.

On our cruises to Cape Town you will see straightaway why it is called the ‘Garden City’ of South Africa, as there is so much greenery in the many parks and botanical gardens mixed in among some well-preserved historical buildings. But you will be most impressed first of all by the Victoria and Alfred waterfront development right by Cape Town’s cruise port.

Imaginatively landscaped and linked by a series of bridges, the V&A has a mouth-watering array of classy shops, quirky boutiques and handicraft stores, as well as tasty cafés and restaurants, most with superb ocean views. Do not linger too long here on our Cape Town cruises as there is much to explore while further afield in the vineyards there are nature reserves and beaches around the city.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Port Elizabeth

Embark on a Port Elizabeth cruise and you will discover one of the largest cities in South Africa. With the warmth of your welcome, you’ll immediately understand why it’s called ‘the friendly city’.

Cruises to Port Elizabeth will take you close to one of the city's game reserves, Addo Elephant Park. Here you will find more than 300 Cape Elephants – so relaxed you can really get up close and personal. There are ostriches, antelope, 200 species of birds, and a few shy rhino too. Port Elizabeth also boasts a wonderful city museum, a must-see oceanarium with a very scary snake park, and some of the countries finest beaches.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Barcelona

The Catalonian capital of Barcelona provides a vivid mix of ancient and modern but is probably best know for the bizarre Art Nouveau architecture of Antonio Gaudi, in particular the iconic Sagrada Familia, Europe’s most extraordinary – and still unfinished – cathedral.

Boosted by hosting the Olympic Games in 1992, Barcelona’s Old Port area has been transformed into a thriving area of cafés and restaurants. From there, it is an easy stroll up the famous Rambla to the old town. Las Ramblas is thronged with street entertainers, stalls and bars and is most lively at night and weekends. Not to be missed is the La Boqueria food market with its extraordinary displays of fish, meat, fruit and vegetables.

Some of the best food in Spain can be found in the city – paella is a speciality – and the restaurant Cal Pep was recently named as one of the top 50 places to eat in the world.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Vigo

Spains busiest fishing port, Vigo sits on the rugged west coast of the province of Galicia. Over the centuries, this charming town and its resilient residents have been the target for many naval attacks including a couple from Sir Francis Drake.

In these more peaceful days, you will still find the best view of Vigo is from the fort (Castillo del Castro) built to defend it from the hill overlooking the harbour. From here, your Vigo cruise tour will lead you through the steep, narrow streets of the atmospheric old town (Barrio del Berbes) to see (and smell...) the daily fish market.

Try one of the oysters which are fresh from beds in Vigos ‘ria’ - one of the sunken sea-filled valleys for which Galicias coastline is renowned. And our Vigo cruises are also a chance to visit nearby Santiago de Compostela, the subject of pilgrimages since the Middle Ages.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Dubai

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Arabian Gulf’, Dubai is one of the seven emirates that comprises the United Arab Emirates. With a mix of traditional architecture and glittering modern buildings, Dubai is a place of fascinating contrasts that can best be described as the ‘Middle East meets Hong Kong with a little Las Vegas thrown in for style’. It is also the home of sand, sea and sun.

As you sail into the formidable city of Dubai, you can’t help but to gaze up in wonder at the magnificent Burj Al Arab Hotel. Designed to resemble a billowing sail, it stands at a height of 321 metres and dominates the Dubai coastline.

Visit Dubai’s waterfront and take a boat trip up Dubai creek, admire the beautiful architecture of the Grand Mosque, boasting the city’s tallest minaret, or barter for souvenirs in the many souks around the city. Don’t miss the Spice Souk and the glittering Gold Souq – crammed full of exquisite jewellery and at prices lower than anywhere else in the world. From designer clothes and custom-made sari’s, to perfumes and spices you can get anything you desire.

With guaranteed sunshine the multitude of water sports is spectacular, but your might like to try sand-skiing, 4-wheel drive desert safaris or camel riding. Or for something a little more relaxing enjoy a moonlit Bedouin barbeque, deep in the heart of the desert.

The nearby emirate of Sharjah, with its captivating architecture and spectacular souks, was selected by UNESCO as the cultural capital of the Middle East.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Los Angeles

Alive with glitz and glamour, Los Angeles – the City of Angels - is all about fulfilling the American Dream all the way from Hollywood and the original Disneyland to swish Beverly Hills, Malibu and then Hollywood Hills where the stars love to live out that dream in their spectacular mansions.

This starry lifestyle is fun for visitors, too, though.  Watch the surfers at the fabulous surfing beaches of Santa Monica, give those cards a hammering at Rodeo Drive’s exclusive shops, or be impressed by the high quality of the exhibits at the smart Downtown museums and art galleries.

The filmmaking capital of the world exudes style and offbeat artistic expression. Check out all the movie star hand and foot imprints on the sidewalk outside the famous Mann’s Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard or stroll the boardwalk at bohemian Venice Beach with its wacky street artists, musicians, roller skaters, cyclists and the outdoor weightlifting at Muscle Beach.View typical shore excursions for this port

About San Francisco

Cruising under the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco is one of the world’s greatest travel experiences for it acts as gateway to a fascinating city set across dozens of hills overlooking the bay.

The hippies are long gone but San Francisco’s scenic beauty, laid-back ambience and more than 3,000 restaurants make it a joy to visit. The famous Fisherman’s Wharf harbourfront restaurant and multi-coloured boats complex, where seals happily sunbathe on its wooden decking, faces out towards the former island prison of Alcatraz which is now a major tourist attraction just like the city’s colourful Chinatown district and upmarket shopping centre in Union Square.

And no visit to San Francisco would be complete without a trip on the city’s 130-year-old tram system carrying you up and down the improbably steep streets made famous by that stomach-churning Steve McQueen car chase in the movie Bullitt.

From the city, you can also visit the pretty resorts of Sausalito and Monterey.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Halong Bay

Often referred to as the ‘Bay of the Descending Dragons’, Halong Bay is your gateway to Hanoi. Local legend has it that the gods sent down a family of dragons to protect Hai Phong from invaders, especially the Chinese, and defend their land.

While the dragons’ watched over the land, their mighty tails carved the rocky seabed and Halong Bay was created. Cruises here will reveal the natural wonder of Vietnam, with 3000 or more incredible islands rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

These tiny islands are dotted with beautiful beaches and dramatic grottoes, created by the natural forces of the wind and waves. In 1994 Halong Bay was designated a World Heritage site. Hanoi is a city that carefully combines Vietnam’s rich history with today’s rapid and changing cultures. Here you will find a lovely combination of lakes, temples, monuments, shaded boulevards and cosmopolitan cafés. Halong Bay cruise itineraries include a visit to the Fine Arts Museum, a tour to see Ho Chi Minhs embalmed body and a journey to the Old Quarter, for anything from beautifully coloured silk to traditional medicines.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Nha Trang

Set against a backdrop of lushly-forested mountains, with a beautiful waterfront and wide, golden beaches, the Vietnamese seaside resort of Nha Trang is now well on its way to becoming a sophisticated modern town.

Still, on cruises to Nha Trang you will find plenty of old fashioned charm, though, in the colourful markets, lively restaurants and broad streets of its bustling downtown area, which lies close to the clear turquoise seas, uncrowded sands and excellent diving and snorkelling facilities of the main City Beach.

And when you tire of sunbathing, the region surrounding the city is rich in history. Embark on one a Nha Trang cruise and discover the fascinating story of the Chams, an ancient Hindu / Moslem ethnic minority who run their society along matriarchal lines, with property passing from mother to daughter.

One of their most important sacred sites – the Towers of Po Nagar, which date from the 7th century – lie close to the city. Also worth seeing while enjoying one of our Nha Trang cruises is the exquisite Long Son Pagoda.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Phu My

In amidst the swarming streets and markets of Ho Chi Minh City, stand numerous landmarks bound in history and tradition: from museums that tell the stories of war to ornamental pagodas that are filled with characters from Buddhist and Taoist religions, all of which can be seen while enjoying one of our cruises to Phu My.

From Phu My, your cruise shore excursion leads you to the fascinating tunnel network at Cu Chi, used by the Viet Cong during the war. At their height they stretched from the South Vietnamese capital to the Cambodian border.View typical shore excursions for this port

About St. Lucia

St Lucia has a fascinating if bloody history with the French and British spending years fighting over it. One look at this luscious island will show you why.

Cloaked in verdant rainforests, its skyline dominated by the dramatic twin peaks of Les Pitons and its gardens a riot of hibiscus and bougainvillea; St. Lucia is the epitome of a Caribbean paradise.

Here you can watch parrots and hummingbirds skim through the trees, bask on beautiful beaches, visit charming fishing villages, view stunning volcanic scenery and glory in the Caribbean’s best botanical gardens.

If it is your first visit, an island tour to the dramatic Soufriére volcano will show you the island’s full beauty.  Boat trips to spot dolphin and whales are also available, as are biking, jeep and hiking tours of the rainforest.  But do leave time to explore the shops of Castries, where you can pick up bread, wine and even ketchup made from bananas.View typical shore excursions for this port

About St. Vincent

Although he never landed on the island, Columbus sailed past in 1498 on 22nd January, which happens to be St Vincents Day in the Spanish calender, and so gave the island its name.

The Carib Indians were initially left to their own devices by the Europeans and external contacts were limited, however they did intermarry with the survivors of a slave ship that was wrecked on the coast. There’s a strong British influence here as the islands official British roots go back to the mid 18th century.

Notable sights include La Soufriere a 4,000 ft volcano that last erupted at the end of the 1970’s. In Kingstown the botanical gardens are well worth a visit, there’s even a descendent of the original breadfruit tree planted by Captain Bligh.View typical shore excursions for this port