Westbound Transatlantic Crossing - 12 nights, June 2013

Enjoy a visit to the magnificent Royal residence of Windsor Castle followed by free time to explore the historic town of Windsor.

Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, is one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history and dates back to the time of William the Conqueror.

Enjoy an audio tour around the opulent rooms of the Castle including the splendid State Apartments and grand St Georges Hall where the Queen entertains visiting heads of states. The rooms are furnished with some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Reubens and Gainsborough. You will be able to admire the world famous Queen Mary's Dolls' House, which took three years to complete and involved 1,500 craftsmen, artists and authors. The house has electric lighting, hot and cold running water and even flushing lavatories.

One of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England can be found in St George's Chapel. The chapel contains the tombs of ten sovereigns, including Charles I, Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour.

After visiting the Castle, there will be around one hour of free time to explore the town of Windsor with its Georgian shops, houses and inns.

Note: The transfer time to Windsor is 1½ hours. There is a ½ mile walk from the car park to the Castle entrance and two hours walking within the Castle. If the Royal Family is in residence some of the state rooms will be unavailable. St George’s Chapel is closed on Sundays. Queues may be experienced due to the strict security procedures. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

A seaport that is overflowing with history and atmosphere. Walking is the ideal way to explore the sites and tranquil gardens.

Set off from the quayside by bus with your kilted guide for a short drive to the heart of Halifax. Discover the downtown area the way it is seen best - on foot.

Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Public Gardens, encompassing 17 acres of Victorian paths, lush flowerbeds and sparkling fountains. Founded in 1866, these are the oldest Victorian gardens in North America.

Enjoy the bustle of Spring Garden Road, lined with boutiques and cafés and walk past elegant Georgian and Victorian arches, which help the city retain its historic charm. Stroll through the lovely Grand Parade Square and see the oldest Anglican church in Canada. Learn of the history of Province House and City Hall, overlooked by the picture-perfect Town Clock, perched on Citadel Hill.

At the end of your walking tour, you will have time to browse the quaint shops and heritage buildings of the Historic Properties, located on the Halifax waterfront.

After your guided tour, you may wish to remain in the city and return to the ship at your leisure or walk with your guide back to the ship.

Note: Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for this tour.

Visit Queen Victoria’s much loved home on the Isle of Wight, for an insight into the life she shared with Prince Albert.

Osborne House was the treasured summer home of Queen Victoria and her family; a secluded seaside retreat away from public life and the formalities of London.

Take the ferry to the Isle of Wight for the short drive to the impressive estate of Osborne House. Enjoy a tour of the main house and admire the beauty of the opulent interior with its architectural design and decoration. You will gain an insight into the private life of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as you wander around the Royal bedrooms and see the many family photographs which adorn the desks and walls.

One of the most impressive rooms in the house is the richly decorated Durbar Room, with its intricate ceiling inspired by medieval temple structures, which celebrates Queen Victoria's role as Empress of India. The room itself contains art, furniture and many trinkets sent as gifts to Queen Victoria from India.

To the rear of the house are the beautiful Italian-style terraces and at the bottom of the estate stands the wooden chalet style, Swiss Cottage, which belonged to the children. The children each had a vegetable garden where they planted and grew produce which they sold to the main house, providing them with a valuable lesson in gardening and commerce.

Note: The main house and gardens are wheelchair accessible, however the nursery and Swiss Cottage are not. Photography is not permitted inside Osborne House. To derive full enjoyment of the estate will involve two hours of walking. Luncheon is not included to allow for maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Beautifully situated on a lonely glacier, Peggy’s Cove lighthouse has long been an inspiration to artists and photographers.

Embark on a scenic drive along the winding coastal highway of the lighthouse route, passing picturesque fishing villages to Peggy’s Cove.

Upon arrival, you may choose to accompany your kilted guide on an optional walking tour of the Lower Cove, have your camera ready as you pass by the famous lighthouse, perched among a mass of boulders and admire a huge granite carving which depicts the life and the people of the area, by local artist William de Garthe.

Enjoy some free time to stroll around the harbour, passing colourful clapboard cottages and fishing shacks, and browse the small shops for souvenirs, local handicrafts and artwork.

Returning to Halifax, enjoy a short drive around the city to familiarise yourself with its many highlights.

Note: Sturdy walking shoes and protection from the rain are recommended in case of Atlantic mists. There are no sidewalks at Peggy’s Cove. The roads are narrow, but paved, and hilly in places and the rocks around the Cove may be slippery.

See the most important sites of Lexington and Concord and enjoy a glimpse of Boston too.

In 1775, the British advance travelled a route through Lexington to Concord where the opposing ranks met in battle and consequently this was designated the Battle Road. Today, Lexington remains a place that has the classical elements of a small New England town.

Visit Lexington Green, where Paul Revere rode to warn the Minutemen that the British were coming. Old North Bridge is the site in Concord where 400 Minutemen faced the British and fired the shot that started the Revolutionary War. Inside Old North Church, you will notice the unusually tall pew boxes, which kept out winter draughts and enabled worshippers to sit around communal foot-warmers.

Enjoy a delightful luncheon at the atmospheric Union Oyster House, America’s oldest continually operating restaurant.

The return route will take you through Cambridge and Harvard Yard, where you will have an opportunity to stroll past the hallowed halls of America’s oldest and most prestigious university. Your guide will also point out the country homes of renowned authors such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Louisa May Alcott.

Note: Guests with walking difficulties may opt to remain on the coach during the stops. There will be one square block to walk at Harvard and around 45 feet of walking at each stop.

The sound of sea shanties fills the air as the charming captain and crew await your arrival.

Tall ship, ‘Silva’ is located in the heart of Halifax’s waterfront. After a short walk you’ll board the classic tall ship and set sail, enjoy the fabulous views of Halifax from the deck.

Discover the historic seaside city with miles of shoreline guarded by George’s Island and its graceful lighthouse. Keep a look-out for marine life whilst the crew and captain haul the lines and raise the sails. Quench your thirst by sampling a selection of local beers such as Halifax’s own Alexander Keith’s India Pale Ale dating back to the 1800’s, or let your taste buds journey to the Annapolis Valley, Atlantic Canada's richest agricultural region when you sip the wine. There is also a wide range of culinary delights from succulent seafood favourites, such as Atlantic Salmon and Digby Scallops to locally produced cheeses and lamb tenderloin.

Enjoy a toe tapping performance by a local fiddler and when the music breaks there will be a commentary highlighting the points of interest along the way.

Note: To board the tall ship there is a 15 minute walk on flat paved ground. The gangway has a slight incline and once on board there are several steps down to the lounge area and facilities. The raising of the sails is weather dependant and it may be necessary for the ship engines to be used. The open deck has a canopy covering in case of inclement weather.

New York after dark – see the lights of Broadway and the ‘strings of pearls’ that suspend from the Brooklyn Bridge.

An experience not to be missed as you head to Brooklyn and take in the dazzling illuminated lights of Broadway.

You will see the spectacular art deco building of the steel-capped Chrysler building, and take in sites such as the Rockefeller Center, the Woolworth Building and in the distance the magnificent site of the Statue of Liberty.

You will travel from the East River to Brooklyn from where you will be able to take in the famous New York City skyline from beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.

A stop at Times Square gives you the chance to stroll and shop or just relax and sip a coffee and watch the world go by.

Note: You will have approximately one hour of free time on the tour during the stop at Times Square.

Sit back and relax in the comfort of your coach as your guide introduces you to Boston’s most important historical landmarks.

From the harbour you’ll head towards Copley Square, one of the city’s most attractive spots. The Square is surrounded by some of Boston’s most striking buildings, including the stunning Romanesque Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library, known for its magnificent Italian Renaissance-style exterior.

Along Newbury Street, you will see the elegant Victorian mansions, which have been converted into chic restaurants and boutiques. Enjoy the sights of the beautiful formal flowerbeds of the Public Garden and century-old swan boats, as you make your way past Boston Common to the heart of the old city.

You will see the gold dome of the Massachusetts State House perched atop Beacon Hill, whose cornerstone was laid in 1795 by Samuel Adams and Paul Revere. Following along the ‘Freedom Trail’, you will view the Old State House, where the Declaration of Independence was read on 18th July 1776, as well as the site of the Boston Massacre. You will also see the famous Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Bustling Fanueil Hall is now popular with tourists and locals alike, but was once a key meeting point for Boston’s revolutionaries. At the end of your tour, you may remain at Faneuil Hall Marketplace and return to the ship independently if you are on a morning departure only.

Note: This tour may occasionally pass through tunnels to avoid traffic and, depending on traffic conditions, it may not always be possible to make stops for photographs.

Combine a visit to Europe’s most intriguing prehistoric monument, with the enchanting medieval city of Salisbury.

Stonehenge is Britain’s most remarkable and intriguing prehistoric monument. It is as old as the great temples and pyramids of Egypt and remains as compelling today as it was to the people who built the first phase over 5,000 years ago. This mighty symbol is a wonder of the world drawing thousands of visitors each year to witness its awesome majesty and mystery.

The stone circle of shaped stones, lintels, unique jointing and absolutely perfect geometry make it the most sophisticated stone circle in the world. The stones are fenced off for their preservation and protection, however your guide will accompany you along the encircling pathway for close up views and will describe what has been concluded from observations and archaeological evidence.

After a short drive from Stonehenge, you’ll arrive at the magnificent medieval city of Salisbury, with its historic streets and alleyways, charming half-timbered buildings, traditional eating houses and medieval Cathedral. Salisbury Cathedral is a beautiful masterpiece of early English Gothic architecture which also boasts the tallest spire in Britain, Europe’s oldest working clock and the world's best-preserved original copy of the Magna Carta. Enjoy free time to explore this lovely city at your leisure.

Note: The transfer time to Stonehenge is approximately one hour. There will be approximately 2½ hours of free time in Salisbury. Luncheon and the Cathedral entrance fee are not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Discover many of Boston’s treasures: historic buildings, gracious parks and charming churches.

Boston and Cambridge are inseparable cities, both bustling metropolis, divided only by the Charles River. Your tour will take you across the Charles River, where you’ll pass through Cambridge. You’ll have an opportunity to stroll through Harvard Yard, the heart of America’s oldest university.

Built in 1723, Old North Church is the oldest standing church in Boston and features chandeliers from England and tall box pews. It was here, on 18th April 1775, that Paul Revere ordered two lanterns will be hung to signal that the British Redcoats were approaching. You will have a short time to browse for souvenirs at the Old North Church Gift Shop.

Your fascinating narrated drive takes you past the ‘new’ State House, Trinity Church, Boston Public Library, Public Garden, the Boston Common and Beacon Hill. Follow the ‘Freedom Trail’ past the King’s Chapel, Old South Meeting House - where the Boston Tea Party began - as well as the Old Corner Bookstore. You will even get a glimpse of Quincy Market and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Note: This tour may occasionally pass through tunnels to avoid traffic. Guests are advised that there will be approximately one square block to walk during the tour to Harvard Yard. To access Old North Church there is a walk of 160 yards. The highlights of the tour may operate in reverse order.

Feel the pulse of Lower Manhattan and see the city’s premier highlights on this tour.

Travelling the dynamic streets of Manhattan by coach, your informative guide offers historic and factual commentary as you pass the celebrated sights of the city.

Absorb the sights as you sweep along Broadway, and visit the historical St Paul’s Chapel, where President George Washington paused to pray after his inauguration. A short stroll from St Paul’s Chapel will lead you to the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, here you can learn about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum through models, renderings, films and genuine artefacts.

Your journey through the ‘city that never sleeps’ will showcase famous locations such as Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange. A brief stop will also be made at Battery Park will allow you to snap a photo of the Statue of Liberty in the distance

Take a break from the main city sightseeing to enjoy the atmosphere at South Street Seaport. Photograph the nearby Brooklyn Bridge which, when it opened, had the longest span between its two supporting towers in history at 1595 feet. Today it remains an impressive icon of New York. Inspired by this great city’s energy, beauty and resolve, resume your sightseeing drive and make your way through New York’s uniquely fascinating avenues.

Note: Please remember to take US$ for shopping at the Seaport. The New York Stock Exchange is not open to the public and will be viewed externally only. Guests are advised there is a significant amount of walking and steps at St Paul’s Chapel and Trinity Church. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Infamous for witch hunts three centuries ago, Salem is known for its Witch Museum and historic waterfront.

In the mid-19th century, Salem evolved into an important manufacturing and retail centre, however in 1914 a great fire swept through the city leaving thousands of families homeless. Today Salem has developed into a colourful coastal city with one of the highest concentrations of historic sites and museums as well as wonderful shopping opportunities. Most notably, Salem is famous for its witch trials and you will see reference to this throughout the city.

Step back in time to 1692, when witchcraft hysteria overwhelmed superstitious Salem Village, when young women fell ill and innocent townspeople were accused of sorcery. The Witch Museum offers a theatre with stage settings, a narrator and the voices of actors and actresses who, accurately and dramatically, present the truth of the hangings in the dark period of the Witchcraft Trials.

Salem’s Derby Wharf dates back to the fabled China Trade period after the Revolution, when Salem’s Yankee Clipper ships sailed around the globe to Canton and the South Seas. In this period, Salem was the wealthiest city in the United States. You will have time to independently explore the historic buildings along the waterfront and browse the unique shops on the wharf.

Note: Guests with walking difficulties may opt to remain on the coach during the stops. There will be approximately 40 minutes of walking and standing involved at the Witch Museum.

Visit two of the most famous sites in New York – Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

A relaxing, enjoyable and interesting tour starting with a brief stop at Central Park and a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious museums.

You will head off to the ‘Upper West Side’, where you will see many homes of celebrities as well as the Lincoln Center featuring the Metropolitan Opera House. A brief stop will be made at the famous Dakota building, where John Lennon lived, followed by a short walk to Strawberry Fields, the area of Central Park devoted to him. Central Park is over 150 years old, has over 25 million visitors each year and more than 200 movies have been filmed within the Park. Continue by coach along the world famous Fifth Avenue, famous for all its designer shops and department stores.

Founded in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most visited museums in the world featuring over two million works of art. The institution’s permanent collection spans history, from a transported Egyptian temple to a large collection of 19th and 20th century European paintings. There is also the chance to see many special and temporary exhibits while visiting the Museum. Enjoy 2½ hour’s free time with an audio guide to explore the exhibits. There are several cafés in the museum where you can purchase a coffee or snack.

Note: Guests are advised to wear comfortable, flat, walking shoes. Please be aware that there is approximately 2½ hours of walking and standing throughout the tour.

A tour that takes you back in time and presents the close connection that Halifax has with the birth of the Cunard Cruise Line.

Cruising on a Cunard Line ship would not be complete without a close look at Samuel Cunard’s Halifax connection. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the son of a master carpenter and timber merchant, Samuel Cunard became the world's foremost shipping magnate in the nineteenth century.

His company created and operated the finest passenger liners and transformed navigation of the world's oceans. On this tour you will learn of Samuel Cunard’s transatlantic steamship service, which was inspired by his ferry system in Halifax. The tour also focuses on the city’s compassionate relief efforts and recovery operations after the Titanic tragedy.

You will also visit the renowned Cunard and Titanic exhibits at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. See the property where Samuel Cunard’s childhood home once stood; visit St Paul’s Church, the oldest Protestant church in Canada and where Samuel Cunard was baptized. Journey to the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the largest resting place of the Titanic victims and drive by the beautiful home of George Wright - the only Haligonian to perish on the Titanic.

Note: Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. In the event that St Paul’s Church is unavailable due to a funeral or wedding, a stop will still be made offering a photograph opportunity of the exterior of the Church along with historical information from your guide.

Get a taste of the ‘Big Apple’ on this leisurely sightseeing adventure and discover New York’s most celebrated landmarks.

Begin your sightseeing drive of Manhattan and view the Rockefeller Center, Times Square, the Theatre District, the Empire State Building and St Patrick’s Cathedral from the comfort of your air-conditioned coach. You will travel through quintessential New York neighbourhoods such as trendy Greenwich Village, Little Italy, the Financial District and Fifth Avenue with its designer stores and boutiques. You will also see glimpses of Central Park, which covers some 843 acres at the core of this bustling metropolis, and provides the people of the city with a green oasis.

The highlight of your New York exploration will be a visit to St Paul’s Chapel, where President George Washington paused to pray after his inauguration. St Paul’s Chapel is currently the home to exhibits and memorabilia relating to the 9/11 attacks. A short stroll from St Paul’s Chapel will lead you to the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, where you can learn about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum through models, renderings, films and genuine artefacts.

Following your stop at the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, you’ll resume your travels on the pulsing streets of the city. With your hunger to discover the ‘Big Apple’ satisfied, you’ll return to your ship.

Note: There will be approximately 30 - 45 minutes of walking during the stop at St Paul’s Chapel and the 9/11 Memorial. Guests should note that the tour duration is heavily dependent on local traffic conditions and may vary. The majority of this tour is spent on the coach. Tour sequence may vary. Depending on traffic or street closures, some sights may not be accessible.