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 Albany

Western Australia’s first settlement, Albany is also set (in Princess Harbour) within one of the world’s finest natural harbours – King George Sound  – on a 1,000 million-year-old granite coastline with pristine beaches edged by forests of giant trees or vast farmland plains, all which can be explored on our Albany cruises.

Of the 6,000 plant species which have earned Western Australia the ‘Wildflower State’ tag, three-quarters are to be found within easy range of Albany. Although this cruise destination is now a modern town with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants in and around Main Street, it is also proud of its heritage. In addition, cruises to Albany give passengers the chance to see a full-scale reproduction of the brig (Amity), which in 1826 brought its original settlers of soldiers and convicts, standing on its original landing site.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 Cairns

Cruises to Cairns bring you into the capital of Far North Queensland, tourist gateway to the rainforest and the region’s only major cruise port. Although Cairns still has a small town feel, locals have adopted a quintessentially casual approach to life, probably due to the prevailing tropical conditions which place an emphasis on outdoor activities.

Cairns cruise visitors should follow suit and relax in one of the various open terraced bars, pubs and restaurants or take a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef for diving or snorkelling.

While you need to travel north from Cairns to find the top beaches, there are any number of other activities within easier reach. Shore excursions from Cairns cruises range from high adrenalin bungee jumping and white water rafting to the more sedate Kuranda Skyrail cable car high above the dense rainforest and the Tjapukai Aboriginal Centre, where didgeridoo and boomerang displays are top attractions.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Darwin

Cruises to Darwin welcome you into the ‘Crocodile Dundee country,’ for this is the gateway to the legendary Kakadu World Heritage Park.

Darwin is famous for the frontier spirit and rough humour of its inhabitants, who celebrate their favourite leisure activity with an annual Beer Can Regatta – racing rafts made of empty cans while emptying plenty more!

But, if you can tear yourself away from bushmen’s tales in rip-roaring pubs, you will find a cultural side to Darwin. Cruise passengers can visit excellent art galleries, an outstanding Museum of Arts and Natural Sciences and stunning Botanical Gardens with manicured lawns and more than 400 species of plants.

If you prefer your nature rawer, follow a bushwhacking trail to the spectacular rapids at Katherine Gorge or head for Kakadu and the crocs.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 Geraldton

Geraldton cruises will reveal a beautiful coastline, also known as the Batavia Coast after the Dutch East India company flagship Batavia, shipwrecked here in 1629. Geraldton has a strong maritime feel, thanks largely to the Fishermen’s Wharf where a multi-million pound fishing fleet brings in the delectable rock lobster. 

The city’s superb positioning lends itself to a host of activities, especially water sports. For art and culture enthusiasts Geralton cruise tours include a wide range of galleries showcasing local talent, or why not join a guided tour around the magnificent Saint Francis Xavier Cathedral?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 Port Douglas

Embark on one of our cruises to Port Douglas and stroll along the seemingly endless sands of the famous 4 Mile Beach. Wander among galleries laden with art influenced by the beauty of the local landscape.

Port Douglas cruise visitors will notice that shops have a nautical air about them and restaurant menus brim with fresh seafood delicacies. On the very north of Australia’s east coast, the peaceful town of Port Douglas is home to an eclectic mix of alluring attractions.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 Townsville

Queensland’s Townsville was one of the coast’s first really tropical cities. Its busy waterfront strip offers Townsville cruise visitors stretches of palms, beach and shady lawn to enjoy. The Strand promenade is lined with old houses and fig trees and looks out to Magnetic Island – a beautiful reef island situated five miles off shore. Next, cruises to Townsville will take passengers to the old gold rush town of Charters Towers for the chance to see what life must have been like back in 1870’s.

The city has a rich maritime history, much of it showcased in the Museum of Tropical Queensland. The centrepiece is an impressive full sized replica of the third front of Pandora, a British frigate linked to the tale of the Bounty Mutiny.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 Rio de Janeiro

Famous for its colourful carnival and its fabulous beaches, as well as the dramatic entry to its cruise port, Rio de Janeiro in the south-eastern corner of Brazil has much more to offer than sun and sand.

You can enjoy breathtaking views from the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain (the cable car journey up is even more spectacular!), or take a taxi up Corcovado Mountain in the Parque Nacional de Tijuca to view the city’s most famous landmark, the 30 metre-high statue of Christ the Redeemer.

Make time, too, to visit Praca Floriano, the vast square at the heart of the city which is home to its exquisite Teatro Municipal opera house and close to the city’s best art gallery, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes.

Floriana Square is also the place to catch Rio’s social life at its best – grab a beer at a pavement café and tap your feet to the rhythms of the Samba before exploring the shops along the 19th century Rua da Carioca.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 Vancouver

Vancouver, Canada's third-largest city, is dynamic and multicultural, and set in a spectacular natural environment. Cradled between the ocean and snow-capped mountains, its idyllic waterfront is dotted with fine beaches and it has an abundance of parkland.

Its dazzling Downtown district occupies a narrow peninsula and is lined with modern architecture and mirror-fronted skyscrapers. Beyond the city the Coast Mountains rise in steep, forested slopes and offer a profusion of outdoor activities.

Vancouver boasts a vibrant social atmosphere with venues for a wide range of entertainment activities. You’ll find a world-class museum, a symphony orchestra, opera, theatre and cutting-edge dance companies. There are up-and-coming rock bands and a burgeoning jazz scene. And the city has deservedly earned the nickname ‘Hollywood of the North’ as North America's third largest film and TV production centre, after LA and New York.

The surrounding area of Vancouver is an outdoors-type’s delight with hiking, kayaking, whale watching and fishing. As it’s also home to one of the largest natural parks in North America, it’s easy to experience the indigenous wildlife. And the produce from the local vineyards is well worth a look in.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Victoria

Victoria, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, is the capital city of British Columbia, Canada. Yet it’s a small, relaxed and pleasantly sophisticated place, with a quaint waterfront area and an undeniably English feel.

Filled with museums and art galleries, castles, landmarks, gardens and zoos, Victoria's attractions invite you into a world of history, entertainment and colour. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants, in combination with a very generous dose of natural beauty. Victoria’s population of 325,000 occupies a tiny island, one-fifth the size of England – but far more wild. So wild that parts of the island still don’t have any roads, and the only way to get around is by boat, or on foot.

You’ll find bright red double-decker buses and lovely cream teas. But for a taste of ‘colonial’ Victoria, head to the time-warped atmosphere in the Bengal Lounge in the Fairmont Empress. Enjoy a drink in a leather armchair in front of a roaring fire, while the Bengal tiger mounted above the mantelpiece keeps watch. In the words of Rudyard Kipling, Victoria is like "Brighton Pavilion, with the Himalayas for a backdrop".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 Cairo/Giza

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 Cairo cruises.

Port Said, at the head of the Suez Canal, is the key gateway for 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!

Cruises to Cairo also brings you close to 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, on a Cairo cruise you can explore 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 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 Lautoka

Fijis main cruise port, Lautoka, on its largest island (Viti Levu) is very much a working city, steeped in the sugar and timber industries which makes it an even more fascinating experience for visitors. There is a chance to capture the essence of Fijian life here.

Past the avenue of Royal Palms along the main street, the ornate Sikh and Krishna temples and mosques give away the presence of a large Indian population.  It is that contrast between Indian and Fijian lifestyles which gives an extra buzz to the city. Worth a visit are the bustling daily market and the thriving botanical gardens while, outside the city, the National Heritage Park and the Viseisei village - said to be the oldest settlement in Fiji - are the most popular tours on the spectacularly scenic northern side of the island.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 Nagasaki

On Nagasaki cruises you can look forward to rich cosmopolitan atmosphere and the beautiful seaside scenery.

Standing over the Nakashima River is Japans first Chinese-style stone bridge, the Spectacle Bridge, which reflects as ovals on the surface of the water. It is said that bridges here were only built on roads that led to temples, ornate structures that still adorn many of the streets.

Etched in the memory of Nagasaki is the 1945 atomic bomb that destroyed much of the city. Today it still lingers in poignant reminders, such as Peace Park and the A-Bomb Museum, all part of our Nagasaki cruise shore excursions. View typical shore excursions for this port

About Okinawa

Okinawa Island is the largest of the 160 Ryukyu Islands lying in the Pacific Ocean. The site of one of the most intense battles in military history, Okinawa has rebuilt itself since its near destruction in 1945.

In the coastal capital city of Naha you’ll find a mile-long stretch of shops and restaurants along ‘Kokusai Dori’. Shuri Castle, once the royal seat of the Ryukyu dynasty, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and displays a unique mix of Chinese, Okinawan, and Japanese styles. Many traditional crafts including pottery and laquerware are still produced on the island, but woven and dyed fabrics are the most distinctive elements that made Okinawa famous.

Cruises to Okinawa also gives you the opportunity to listen to a unique and attractive combination of original Okinawan sounds with American rock and jazz influences, learn their secrets in art and produce your own souvenir or simply enjoy a scenic drive of this beautiful island. View typical shore excursions for this port

About Osaka

Japan’s third largest city, Osaka offers your cruise holiday a combination of historical and cultural attractions with modern developments. Before World War II, Osaka was an exotic maze of crisscrossing waterways and traditional wooden buildings, but unfortunately most of these were destroyed in the bombings. Today however, the city has leapt into the architectural future with such buildings as the Imperial Hotel, the inverted U-shape of the Umeda Sky Building and the enormous Ferris wheel on top of the HEP Five complex.

In addition, cruises to Osaka will also offer you the chance to see the gentle side of Japan. Kyoto, the former capital, is a serene city of geometric gardens, geisha houses, cherry trees, temples and palaces. While on Osaka cruises witness the ritual of the tea ceremony or savour a teriyaki lunch in the loveliest of Japanese cities.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 Tripoli

Libya is slowly opening up to the outside world and there is the beginnings of a tourism industry, with cruise passengers among the first to enjoy some of the most fascinating sites to be found in North Africa or anywhere around the Mediterranean.

The capital and cruise port, Tripoli, is a typical North African city of narrow streets and lively souks. It also has a fascinating national museum but the real treasures are still out in the desert which covers most of this country.

First, along the coast to the east of the capital, is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in North Africa or Europe: Leptis Magna.  Its remarkably impressive scale and condition is down to the protection afforded by the layers of desert sand which buried it until discovery early last century. Along the coast to the west and near the border with Tunisia is another Roman city, Sabratha.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 Kemaman

The Malaysian town of Kemaman is situated on the south coast of the China Sea and is fast becoming the new gateway to the Asia-Pacific region. Although the town itself has few attractions, just outside lies Kuala Kemaman. This cruise destination is a little fishing village, which hosts a riverside jetty crowded with restaurants and boats. Here you can sample some of the local fish dishes including otak-otak and ikan baker.

Nearby you will also find Pekan, the royal town of Pahang - home to the region’s royal family and renowned for its silk weaving and batik. On cruises to Kemaman you can admire the elaborate Malay architecture and historical artefacts at the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum and see the fascinating Royal Palace. The Penang Silk Weaving Centre showcases the town’s traditional silk weaving methods – an intricate art that has been passed down from generation to generation.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 Kuantan

Cruises to Kuantan will take passenger to palm-fringed beaches, paddy fields and sleepy fishing villages, all reflecting a lifestyle that has changed little through the centuries. Kuantan is the capital of the Pahang region and a wonderful place to find traditional souvenirs from the industries that have developed here over the years: silk-weaving, pandan leaf basket-making, batik painting, wood-carving, jade necklace and silver filigree jewellery-making. The cultural mix is also diverse with a large Chinese population living side by side with Malays and Indians, making for a superb selection of ethnic restaurants for the Kuantan cruise visitors to enjoy.

Another highlight of Kuantan cruises is the beautiful Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque, completed in 1993, with its impressive blue dome and ornate minarets. From Kuantan, you can also visit the lotus-covered Lake Chini which - allegedly - has its own version of the Loch Ness monster.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 Guam

This most southerly of the Mariana islands once gave food and shelter to the explorer Ferdinand Magellan. Since then the island has had something of a chequered past with the Second World War among the more harrowing chapters.

Today its crystal clear waters, colourful coral, plentiful wrecks and an extraordinary diversity of fish make it a popular place for divers.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 Acapulco

Long a magnet for the rich and famous, Mexico’s top beach resort, Acapulco, boasts some of the most stunning beaches along the Pacific Coast Mexican Riviera. Situated on a spectacular sweeping bay lined by five star hotels, this jetsetters’ city makes the perfect cruise call as there is a huge range of attractions to suit all tastes and interests.

There are lively bars and cafés, chic boutiques and a pulsating nightlife but so much of Acapulco life centres around the ocean. There is a huge variety of watersports from surfing, jet-skiing and parasailing through to snorkelling, scuba-diving and deep-sea fishing.

But top of the list has to be the world famous cliff divers at La Quebrada, who plunge 130 feet from perilous cliffs into the raging waters below, timing their jumps precisely to coincide with the incoming waves so as to avoid landing with a bump in the shallows. Just marvel at the timing, grace and sheer bravery of the divers as they perform every lunchtime and evening
View typical shore excursions for this port

About Huatulco

Beach-lovers are spoilt for choice at Mexico’s first eco-tourism resort and new cruise port, Huatulco, for there are 22 miles of pristine sand stretched across nine sparkling bays, each hidden from the other. Even within these, there are secret coves and hidden lagoons to discover.

On the Mexican Riviera coast, southeast of Acapulco and where the foothills of the Sierra Madre meet the Pacific Ocean, Huatulco is in the state of Oaxaca, an area of great natural beauty three-quarters of which has been designated as ecological preservation areas by the Mexican Government.

Once a small fishing village, Huatulco has been developed out of the surrounding jungle and now offers visitors a range of amenities from shops and restaurants to golf and every kind of watersport. Look out for the galleries and shops featuring handmade Oaxacan arts and crafts – they make delightful gifts.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Zihuatanejo

Full of life and beautiful scenery, Zihuatanejo (pronounced zee-watt-a-NEH-ho) has retained its charm as a small, sleepy fishing village. Dotted with golden, sandy beaches and surrounded by warm, calm waters, this is the perfect place to relax with a frozen margarita and soak up the sun.

If you’re feeling more energetic, then there are a whole range of water sports to be enjoyed, including snorkelling and scuba diving. Or else take to the water on a trimaran or a fishing boat.

Heading away from the beach, you may wish to soak up the authentic atmosphere as you stroll down the cobbled streets of the village and mingle with the friendly locals. For a real taste of Mexico, a trip to the farmers market is a must. The downtown area of El Centro is also great for souvenir shopping, as is the promenade, Paseo del Pescador.

 A trip to the neighbouring resort of Ixtapa is also worth a visit, with its vast tropical gardens and marina.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 Christchurch

With Christchurch cruises, as you arrive in Lyttelton, there’s a chance that its narrow harbour may remind you of a Scottish Lock. From here, cruise passengers head straight to Christchurch, a city blessed with a lively entertainment scene, strong cultural heritage, beautiful parks and gardens and a great selection of shops. The city’s tram system links all the major attractions of the Cultural Precinct. On a Christchurch cruise must-sees include Christchurch Cathedral, the botanic gardens, the Arts Centre and Art Gallery. Cruises to Christchurch will reveal areas you would never imagine possible, bringing you a new concept of holiday.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Dunedin

Dunedin cruise destination is the home to New Zeland’s only true castle – Larnach Castle. Argued to be one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere, the impressive Dunedin Railway Station is a fine example of the ornate architecture found throughout the city.

This ‘Edinburgh of the South’ is well deserving of its title. Cruises to Dunedin will take you through a fascinating journey of history where you can discover the town’s Scottish roots and enjoy a taste of Scotland in the local style. As you wander through this warm-hearted and captivating city, there are Scottish influences throughout, including a statue of the famous poet Robert Burns, the woodland gardens of Glenfalloch and Dunedin’s First Church.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Napier

In 1931 Napier was dramatically changed by an earthquake. The waterlocked city suddenly grew in size and, as a result of the rebuilding, many of the buildings here today are art deco in style. Embark on one of our cruises to Napier end discover the aesthetics of this era. A walk around the town takes you on a journey through the soft pastels, zigzags, geometric shapes and rising suns.

For those considering spending a few hours ashore, Napier cruise itinerary also includes a visit to Hawke’s Bay. Nature has been kind to Hawke’s Bay, putting the region at the forefront of New Zealand’s wine industry.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Tauranga

Tauranga is a Maori name, translated as resting place for canoes. Situated on a narrow peninsula and surrounded by water, Tauranga cruise destination lies within the Bay of Plenty, an area with beautiful natural harbours and endless beaches.

Highlights of Tauranga cruises include a real ‘back to nature’ tour of Oraka Wapiti Deer Park, Waikato Stud and Longlands Farm. Bars and restaurants are dotted along The Strand, an area ideal for strolling around. At Rotorua listen to the pulsating rhythms of a traditional Maori Haka and see the seething, bubbling cauldron of geysers and mud pits.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Wellington

New Zealand’s capital and cruise port Wellington, is blessed with a wonderful setting, overlooking a glittering harbour filled with bobbing sailing boats.

Behind the gleaming modern skyscrapers of its centre, you will find the city’s history well preserved in some outstanding old buildings. Embark on one of our cruises to Wellington and visit the second-largest wooden building in the world, the old Government Building – which was built in 1876.

To see New Zealand’s story brought most vividly to life, your Wellington cruise tours include a visit the Te Papa Museum, a multi-level extravaganza of hands-on learning where you can explore a Maori meeting house, take a virtual reality bungee jump or even experience an earthquake.

When Wellington cruises have so much to offer, make time, too, to enjoy lunch with a view on the city’s lively waterfront, then take a four minute ride in the Kelburn cable car to see the marvellous views from the top of Mount Victoria.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 Apia

Step straight into a film set for ‘South Pacific’ when you arrive in the Samoan capital, Apia – it’s a magical first impression. On the main Samoan island of Upolu, there’s an intriguing mix of historic churches and monuments, bustling flea and fish markets and laid-back residential districts that have a welcoming, traditional village feel to them.  

Around the island are some of the South Pacifics best (black sand) beaches. And to prove this really is a ‘Treasure Island’, visit Vallima just outside Apia, where Robert Louis Stevenson settled and spent the last five years of his life. There is an excellent museum nearby, dedicated to this splendid storyteller.
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About Christmas Island

Just a few miles north of the Equator lies Christmas Island. One of 33 low-lying coral islands in the Republic of Kiribati (pronounced Kiribas), residents of this region can be counted in the low tens of thousands, far outnumbered by the huge population of exotic wild birds on Christmas Island alone.

The entrance to the island harbour is protected by two deserted promontories called London and Paris, while the other side of the island faces the evocatively named Bay of Wrecks. Once ashore, enjoy a number of lovely beaches and spot countless types of bird life, including the Christmas Island Warbler, found only on this island.
View typical shore excursions for this port

About Rabaul

The inside of a large caldera is an unusual place to house a town, but this is exactly where you will find Rabaul. On cruises to Rabaul you will see that the natural curve has created a sheltered harbour, mostly filled by Blanche Bay, and the region is rich and fertile, suggesting the reasons for settlement here.

The surrounding landscapes rise and fall with volcanic cones, including Vulcan and Tavurvar, which are still active. Along the dusty streets, locals sit on the pavements selling local produce and colourful ‘belim’ sacks. Stately plantation houses lie in wider New Guinea.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 Port Victoria

Port Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles, lies on Mahé, the largest island in the chain. Explore lush tea, coconut and tropical fruit plantations and enjoy great beaches. One of the world’s smallest capitals, Port Victoria is a pretty town with fine colonial Law Courts and a silver clock tower, erected in 1903 and modelled on the tower at London’s Vauxhall Bridge.

Visit the sensational botanical gardens – home to fruit bats, giant tortoises and a host of rare and exotic plants including the native Coco de Mer palms. At the open-air bazaar, you can buy locally-grown tea and spices, exquisite coral jewellery and intricate wood carvings. Famous for its beaches, Anse Royal is best for snorkelling, while Beau Vallon Bay is the most popular with sunbathers.
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 Moorea

Moorea has often been likened to James Michener’s mythological island, Bali Ha’i. A jewel in the Polynesian Sea, its lush, jagged vistas, encircled by deep blue ocean, resemble a vast star shaped garden, branching out into eight valleys.

You can walk bare foot on clean, quiet beaches, bask in the warm caress of the sun and swim in crystalline lagoons. You can explore the tropical landscapes and watch locals plait and braid baskets using local palm trees.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 Durban

Surrounded by miles of spectacular sandy beaches, Durban is arguably South Africa’s most multi-cultural city with a large Indian population adding to its rich diversity.

The country’s third largest city is blessed by a subtropical climate that provides more than 200 sunny days a year, giving it a real holiday feel whenever you visit.

Situated in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban cruises offer a myriad of outdoor activities such as canoeing, cycling, surfing, diving, sailing, hiking and golf.  Dolphin shows are on offer at the Seaworld attraction while hiring a rickshaw to travel along the beachfront is a fun way to soak up the atmosphere from a Durban cruise.

On our cruises to Durban you will have the opportunity to visit the bustling Victoria Street market to pick up a bargain or head for the city hall which houses an art gallery and natural science museum.View typical shore excursions for this port

About East London

East London is situated at the mouth of the Buffalo and Nahoon Rivers in one of the most romantic regions of South Africa. With unspoilt beaches, waterfalls tumbling into the sea and pristine forest areas, the nearby Wild Coast is like a pre-historic subtropical Eden offering incredible scenery to people on board an East London cruise. Of its many private reserves Inkwenkwezi is within easy reach of the city.

Driving through the dry, natural grasslands, game viewing is one of the truly exhilarating activities you can experience with our East London cruises. Adding to East London’s intriguing setting, the city museum offers a historical look at natural life here. The most fascinating exhibit being the coelacanthus - a prehistoric predator fish estimated to be about 350 million years old, once thought to be extinct.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 St. Helena

Napoleon could hardly have been exiled to a more remote place than the tropical island of St. Helena. This cruise destination was a British dependency for more than 330 years. The island is 700 miles from its nearest South Atlantic neighbour - Ascension Island. A genuine away-from-it-all destination, there is no shortage of places to visit, historic sites to explore and dramatic scenery to admire when choosing one of our cruises to St Helena.

In the capital, Jamestown, there is a 17th century castle and an 18th century church (St. James) which is the oldest Anglican church in the southern hemisphere. But the best-known site is the 699-step, 180-metre-high Jacobs Ladder which was built in 1829 and now has the Jamestown Museum at its foot. While one of our St Helena cruises you can even say “hello” to the islands oldest resident, 200-year-old Jonathan the Tortoise at the Governors residence (Plantation House) as well as visit Napoleons original tomb and his last residence, Longwood House, now a museum.View typical shore excursions for this port

Burnie

The city of Burnie overlooks Emu Bay, on the north-west coast of Tasmania. The emus that gave the town its original name have long gone and now Burnie’s emblem is the rhododendron after the 9,000 flowering bushes that thrive in the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens.

From Burnie, your cruise tour leads you to Tasmania’s second city, Launceston, where Australia’s largest collections of Victorian and Edwardian buildings stand proud. With so much that Burnie cruises have to offer, spend your time exploring the scenic Cataract Gorge Reserve, just 15 minutes walk from the city centre, or sampling some of the Tamar Valleys fine wine. At the Queen Victoria Museum, enjoy an extensive collection of pieces from Australian colonial art, contemporary craft and design and Tasmanian history.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Bangkok

Much of Laem Chabang’s old laid-back charm remains, despite its rapid transformation into the country’s ‘Riviera’ - a major gateway for visiting cruise passengers. Located on Thailand’s east coast, this tranquil region of fruit orchards, gem mines and oyster and orchid farms, is now also a great place for swimming, snorkelling and experiencing traditional Thai village life, as you will discover with any of our Bangkok cruises.

You will be hard pressed to know what to do first when you visit the fascinating nearby capital of Bangkok, a cruise destination known by its old temples, fine palaces and extravagant art.

For a taste of Old Asia, our Bangkok cruise passengers can explore the fabulously ornate buildings of the Grand Palace, where you will see Buddha statues exquisitely worked in ivory, crystal, silver and gold. Or the Royal Barge Museum – home to the splendid vessels used in royal processions.

Cruises to Bangkok also offer fascinating experiences for shoppers. The city has everything from fake designer good to fine antiques. Barter your way around the markets of Sukhumvit Road and Siam, or browse the traditional shops on Chinatown’s Chareon Krung Road.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Ko Samui

With its white beaches and inviting seas, Ko Samui has become a bustling island resort. On a Ko Samui cruise you can journey inland from Na Thon and see the two scenic waterfalls of Na Muang, meaning purple - named after the coloured rocks at their base.

Coconut plantations can be found on the coastal plains, where monkeys scale the palms to pluck coconuts for their handlers. North east lies the remarkable Big Buddha statue at the top of the ceremonial dragon-steps of Wat Phra Yai, all which can be seen on our cruises to Ko Samui.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Phuket

Thailand’s Phuket is one of its most popular resorts and a wonderful place to enjoy a ‘chill out’ day. Embark on one of our Phuket cruises and experience the lush scenery this destination has to offer, its colourful markets and soft white beaches.

Bustling Patong Beach has the best range of shops, market stalls and places to eat but Kalim Beach, north of Patong, is removed from the main hustle but still close enough to be lively. While enjoying your Phuket cruise you can try parasailing or jet skiing, or simply relax with an exquisite beach massage.

Snorkellers will be in heaven at unspoiled Karon Beach, and you can encounter land-based wildlife at the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project near Bang Pae Waterfalls, or at Phuket’s elephant sanctuary, where you can ride one of these magnificent creatures along a woodland trail and reward it with a lunch of bananas.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 College Fjord

A glacier calving is an incredible event. When thousands of tons of ice peel away from a glacier a sharp boom is created that sounds like a massive detonation of high explosives. This in turn, is followed by a huge roar as newly born icebergs plunge into the sea. And an afternoon cruise in Prince William Sound’s spectacular College Fjord offers the possibility of witnessing this amazing event.

This narrow 20-mile long fjord in the northern region of the Sound was created by glacial activity over millions of years. Today it boasts a collection of 16 glaciers and from the right angle (on board Arcadia) it’s possible to see eight of the College Fjord glaciers at once.

Discovered a little over a hundred years ago College Fjord was happened upon while an expedition was looking for a short-cut to the Klondike gold fields. Included on this expedition were professors from Harvard and Amherst, who whimsically decided to name the glaciers after elite, east coast colleges (universities), including Amherst, Wellesley and Yale.

Harvard, the second largest but most striking of the glaciers, sits at the mouth of the fjord with a 1½ mile wide face. Columbia, the largest, covers an area of over 400 square miles, and in 2001 was one of the fastest moving glaciers in the world – moving nearly 30 metres per day and discharging icebergs at a rate of approximately 1.7 cubic miles per year.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Juneau

The Alaskan capital of Juneau is full of contrasts with an interesting mix of ancient Alaskan traditions, western commercialism and bustling city life. Its dramatic hillside location and historical downtown buildings provide a frontier feeling, but the city's cosmopolitan nature comes through in fine museums, noteworthy restaurants, and its outdoorsy populace.

It’s a wonderful holiday spot full of fun activities and fascinating sites and the shopping is fantastic. There are plenty of densely forested wilderness areas, quiet bays for sea kayaking, and even a famous drive-up glacier.

Above and beyond the 4,000 foot mountains that create a dramatic backdrop for the city, lies the Juneau Icefield. This colossal ice mass is the pool from which about 30 glaciers flow, the most famous being Mendenhall Glacier. This glimmering blue-white ice giant is truly an impressive sight, and it is the most easily accessible glacier in Alaska. For an up-close and personal experience, try one of its many trails, which vary in length and difficulty.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Ketchikan

Ketchikan, the Salmon Capital of the World, is a fascinating, enjoyable and picturesque old city. Nestled at the base of beautiful Deer Mountain, the historic downtown area is centred on one road and is wedged between the water and forested mountains. It’s built into steep hills and partly propped on wooden pilings, with boardwalks, wooden staircases and totem poles dotted throughout. In fact, this small city contains more totem poles than anywhere in the world.

Ketchikan is a bustling community and its lifeblood is found in its collection of boat harbours, floatplanes and fishing fleets that stretch along the lapping waters of the Tongass Narrows. The friendly locals like to share their history and art, and give you a taste of their ancestors' way of life. The Totem Heritage Center salvages totem poles from deserted Tlingit communities and restores them to their original condition. The Center will also introduce you to the mysteries behind these towering, majestic totem poles.

The Deer Mountain Hatchery offers a fascinating look into salmon cultivation, where over 300,000 King and Coho salmon are raised every year. The hiking is fantastic with a variety of walking adventures on extremely well-maintained trails and the kayak trips are excellent in the well-protected waters. Don’t miss a climb up the Upland Way stairs for spectacular views over the city centre.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 Seattle

Seattle is located in a magnificent setting on the sparkling shores of Elliott Bay, with Lake Washington behind and the snowy peak of Mount Rainier off in the distance. Its modern skyline of glass skyscrapers is testament to the prosperity brought to the city by its many success stories including Boeing, Microsoft, Amazon and Starbucks, yet it still retains its pleasant down-to-earth ambience.

Seattle offers the perfect mix of urban attractions and outdoor recreation. You’ll find funky coffee houses, hundreds of good restaurants, and myriad cultural venues, as well as a nationally acclaimed arts scene with vibrant movie and music industries. Recreation abounds with golfing, hiking and all manner of outdoor activities available within close proximity to the city centre.

Seattle’s major landmark is the Space Needle, which was built for the 1962 World's Fair, and proudly stands at 605 feet tall. The Northwest Seaport Maritime Heritage Center is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and features an 1897 schooner. And the large Woodland Park Zoo and Seattle Aquarium are well worth a visit. Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continually operated markets in the US, sells almost everything and is a great place to explore – keep an eye out for low-flying fish at the famous Pike Place Fish stall.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Sitka

Sitka, on the waters of Alaska's Inside Passage, is undoubtedly Alaska's most beautiful seaside town. Located at the heart of the world’s largest temperate rainforest – the Tongass National Forest – it is surrounded by island-studded waters, stately spruce forests, jagged mountains and a towering volcano.

Sitka’s rich history is a unique blend of Tlingit culture and Russian heritage, which combines comfortably with the Alaskan wilderness to provide a diverse and unequalled experience. Tlingit Indians lived around Sitka for centuries before the Russians arrived, and in 1867 Sitka was the location for the transfer ceremony, for the Russian sale of Alaska to the US – for $7.2 million – less than 2 cents per acre!

Due to its mild climate, rich habitat and low human population, Sitka is a great place to view wildlife. The nearby waters are very picturesque and not only are they popular feeding grounds for humpback whales, they are also perfect for kayaking adventures as well as world-class salmon and halibut fishing. 

Back in town you’ll find fact filled museums, hand-carved totems and Saint Michael's onion-domed Cathedral, which houses animportant collection of Russian Orthodox art and treasures. The Raptor Center is a veterinary project, which rehabilitates of birds of prey, but it also showcases these birds in action – eagles in flight are simply majestic.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Skagway

Skagway is a Southeast Alaskan paradise, full of culture and brimming with life. As you walk through parts of the city you’ll feel like you are back in 1898 at the height of the Alaskan gold rush, when the city was known as the ‘Gateway to the Klondike’.

The frontier-style storefronts of the saloons and bars along the rustic boardwalk date back to the late 19th century and form part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. They are perfectly preserved and filled with unusual and interesting artefacts and local heritage.

However, the great restaurants and wonderful shopping facilities will bring you well and truly back into this century. This unique blend of old and new, coupled with incredibly beautiful natural surroundings, enhances the atmosphere of Skagway all the more.

A visit to Skagway would not be complete without a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad. Re-live the adventure of the 20,000 gold-seekers who braved the Chilkoot and White Pass trails in 1898 as you ascend the pass on a narrow gauge railroad, and enjoy the spectacular views from the comfort of the train. The railway is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, a designation shared with the likes of the Panama Canal and the Eiffel Tower.

 View typical shore excursions for this port

About Tracy Arm

Tracy Arm, located 50 miles southeast of Juneau, is a 653,179-acre wilderness area filled with spectacular glacier-carved fjords. On your morning cruise through you’ll find huge icebergs, mountain peaks that reach higher than 7,000 feet and vertical wall of chiselled granite streaming with countless waterfalls.

But the highlights of this 25-mile-long fjord off Holkum Bay are twin Sawyer Glaciers, North Sawyer and South Sawyer, arguably the bluest and most beautiful glaciers in Alaska. Framed by snow-capped mountains, it’s a fantastic place to watch glaciers calve, and to follow the gallery of icebergs that float down the length of the fjord.

As Tracy Arm is located inside the Tongass National Forest of Alaska, the largest temperate rainforest in the world, the wildlife viewing is unparalleled. The steep cliffs are dotted with sure-footed mountain goats, while black and brown bears stroll the shores and harbour seals relax on ice floes. Other wildlife includes wolves, bald eagles, moose, wolverines and Sitka black tailed deer. Dolphins and whales are also common in the fjord and Holkum Bay is a stopping ground for many different species of migratory waterfowl and sea birds.View typical shore excursions for this port

About Whittier

Whittier is a small town of about 400 residents located on the edge of Prince William Sound in Alaska. It stands on the edge of a long fjord in the northwest corner of the Sound, bordered by rocky shores, rainforests, and glaciers. Its clear waters are teaming with salmon, orcas, otters, and all manner of wildlife, making it an ideal starting point for a kayaking adventure in the protected sound.

Whittier is also the portal to Anchorage – Alaska’s vibrant, eclectic and frontier-spirited metropolis. Wedged between the two arms of Cook Inlet and the imposing Chugach Mountains, this sprawling city, Alaska’s largest, is located in the heart of the great Alaskan wilderness. Nearby you’ll find North America’s highest peak, Mt. McKinley, and the massive Denali National Park.

Boasting a full repertoire of cultural attractions you’ll discover a thriving arts scene, top class museums and an outstanding Alaska Native Heritage Center. There’s also an excellent choice of restaurants and micro breweries, and even a charming small zoo.

You can hike on mountain trails, go mountain biking and pan for gold in old mines, and wildlife viewing is available right in the city centre. Anchorage experiences promise to be larger-than-life and create memories that will last a lifetime.
View typical shore excursions for this port

About Yakutat Bay

Located on the scenic Gulf Coast of Alaska, and abutting the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Yakutat Bay is the only sheltered deep-water port in the Gulf of Alaska. Numerous glaciers and glacial ice fields surround the Yakutat Bay area, but the best known glacier in area is Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in North America.

This giant, 6-mile wide, 300-foot tall slab of ice at the edge of Yakutat Bay stretches a staggering 76 miles inland to the slopes of Mount Logan, Canada's tallest peak. The glacier is so big that you can see it as you enter the bay – 30 miles away. Your afternoon of cruising through this magnificent bay promises to be spectacular journey.

In May 1986 Hubbard Glacier moved forward and blocked the outflow of nearby Russell Fjord. Trapping many seals, sea lions and dolphins, the water behind the glacier dam rose to a height of 90 feet above sea level. When the ice dam finally broke on October 8th it released an estimated 5.3 billion cubic meters of water back into the bay – believed to be one of the greatest water discharges ever recorded in North America.

On the shores of the bay lies Yakutat City, the largest city in the USA (by area). With a population of less than 1,000, it covers almost 9,500 square miles, making it the 8th largest city in the world.

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