Grand New England & Canadian Wonders from Hamburg - 31 nights, August 2013

A unique tour combining a guided tour of Halifax by double decker and an unforgettable tour aboard the ‘Harbour Hopper’.

Begin your fun tour of the town by land aboard a double-decker bus to see the highlights of Halifax and its historical sites. Let your guide provide you with interesting information as you enjoy the scenery.

After touring the city by land, it is then time to see Halifax from its best vantage point – the water. Board an amphibious vehicle and let your captain plunge the vessel into the world’s second largest natural harbour for an exciting cruise along the Halifax waterfront. Sail past the dockyards and continue along the beautiful Halifax waterfront, taking in the incredible perspective of the city’s modern skyline.

At the end of your tour, you may remain in the downtown area to visit the sights at your own pace. Hop aboard any double-decker bus throughout the day to return to the ship at your leisure.

Note: The order of the tour itinerary may vary. In the event of small craft warnings, the cruise portion of the tour will be cancelled and you will receive a 25% refund. There is no walking during this tour, but guests must be able to negotiate 8 –10 steps onto the amphibious vehicle. Please note, the ride may be bumpy. This tour may operate in different order with guests boarding the Harbour Hopper first, then “Hopping” aboard a double-decker.

Cruise the Hudson River and take in the famous New York skyline. See many of the city’s famous sites on this land and sea tour.

On land, make your way to Lower Manhattan by coach, stopping at the historic 18th century South Street Seaport, complete with historic tall ships, museums, exhibits, shops and restaurants.

Board the Zephyr, a custom-built, luxury catamaran for a sixty minute tour of New York’s waterways. You will experience unparalleled views of the skyline and the port as your tour guide provides an informative narration whilst you cruise by the amazing spectacle of New York.

Sail by Brooklyn Bridge, see the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, World Financial Centre and the famous boroughs of Brooklyn, Staten Island and Ellis Island, the immigrant gateway to America. Have your camera ready for the highlight of the trip as your captain briefly lingers directly in front of the Statue of Liberty for a fantastic photograph opportunity.

After your harbour cruise, you will re-board your coach and take a scenic drive back to the ship which will include passing the 9/11 Memorial & One World Trade.

Note: Guests are advised that this itinerary may operate in reverse order and that it is not possible to disembark at the Statue of Liberty. The Zephyr has two enclosed climate-controlled decks and an open top deck. Guests should note that the tour duration is heavily dependent on local traffic conditions and may vary.

A fascinating tour that will trace over 400 years of history in the heart of Canada's oldest incorporated city.

Enjoy a scenic drive passing by the prominent landmarks and historic buildings as your guide introduces the many fascinating personalities and events that make Saint John the greatest little city in the east.

Stopping on the west side of the city, you will visit the Carleton Martello Tower, a great place to survey the harbour from the old stone fort. The tower was built during the War of 1812 as a precaution against an American attack, and although sixteen such towers were constructed across Canada in the early 19th century, this is one of the few remaining.

One sight not to be missed when calling at Saint John, is the famous Reversing Falls at Fallsview Park. From the bluffs, your guide will explain how twice daily the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy rise faster than the river can empty.

You will also drive past the Irving Mansion, Rockwood Park, Loyalist Burial Grounds, and Historic Trinity Royal. Walk through the Old City Market on Germain Street, where local folks have been purchasing fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and meats since 1876.

Note: Guests will have approximately 20 minutes to explore The Old City Market. There are also several steps to negotiate to enter the various levels at Carleton Martello Tower and view the Falls. Exact ‘tidal cycles’ of the river cannot be guaranteed. Sensible flat walking shoes are recommended for the tour.

Discover three centuries of history in this fascinating city and tempt your taste buds with tea at Château Frontenac.

The best way to explore the historic city of Quebec is on foot. The Old Town is the only walled city in North America and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

Located 200 feet above the waterway, Dufferin Terrace was the chosen location for Samuel de Champlain to build his fort in 1620. From here there are spectacular views over St Lawrence River and the town of Levis on the opposite shore, Ile d’Orléans, and the Laurentian Mountains. Built and rebuilt several times, Place Royale historic square remains the heart of the Lower Town and was once home to the wealthy merchants. Around the corner from Place Royale is the charming pedestrian area of Petit Champlain. Narrow cobblestone streets house an array of quaint boutiques, speciality shops, and outdoor cafés.

From the Lower Town enjoy a short funicular ride to Château Frontenac. Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River, the castle-like Chateau is the most well known landmark in Quebec. It was here that Roosevelt, Churchill and Mackenzie King met to discuss their strategy during World War II. Take the time to enjoy your visit and taste the castle lifestyle by having tea. The Château's legendary charm will add a special flavour to your memories of Quebec.

At the end of your tour, time permitting, you may wish to remain in the town and return to the ship independently.

Note: Guests are advised there is approximately 2½ hours of walking and standing on this tour.

Enjoy a drive around Boston’s historic city sights aboard an amphibious DUCK, and then take a splash into the Charles River for a scenic cruise.

Step aboard your DUCK and enjoy a drive through Boston’s Back Bay district, as you meander through the Parisian-inspired boulevards you’ll pass beautiful Victorian brick and brownstone mansions. Lining Newbury Street are the fabulous boutiques, unique galleries, and trendy cafés. Look out for the century-old swan boats at the Public Garden and have your camera at the ready as you pass the famous Bull & Finch Pub that inspired the TV series Cheers.

In the heart of the city, overlooking Boston Common lies the elegant neighbourhood of Beacon Hill. On entering Old Boston, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, admire the golden dome of the Massachusetts State House, whose cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams and Paul Revere in 1795. You’ll also see the Old South Meeting House where colonists gathered on the eve of the Boston Tea Party.

Then it is time for your driver to become your Captain as your DUCK splashes into the Charles River. Cruising along the river you’ll see Craigie Drawbridge and the Longfellow Bridge linking Boston with Cambridge.

Upon returning to dry land you’ll return to the ship via Quincy Market.

Note: Guests are advised that the duck tour is approximately 35 minutes in duration. At the end of the tour, you may leave the tour at Quincy Market for independent shopping. This applies to morning departures only and guests will be responsible for making their own way back to the ship.

Explore one of Newport’s magnificent mansions, with over 250 years of social and architectural history.

Driving through Newport, have your camera ready as you pass by the restored homes and historic buildings of the 1700’s in colonial Newport.

Enjoy a fabulous opportunity to explore one of the area’s most sumptuous palaces. Dependant on the day, you will visit either ‘The Elms’ or ‘Rosecliff’; both are fine examples of the opulent lifestyle of Newport society. Marvel at the endless blanket of green lawns, manicured gardens and the unbroken horizon of blue sky that form a spectacular backdrop for these grandiose residences. Listen as your guide recounts tales and fascinating folklore from this glorious bygone era.

Enjoy a leisurely scenic drive along the world famous Ten Mile Ocean Drive and Bellevue Avenue, admire the awesome palatial ‘cottages’ that hug the coastline and take in the rugged beauty of Newport’s spectacular southern scenes.

Note: Due to the popularity of the Newport mansions, you may experience some queuing. Highlights of the tour may operate in reverse order. Photography is not permitted inside any of the mansions, but exterior photographs may be taken. Guests are advised that there are some steps and stairs to negotiate. Internal guiding may be done in person by a guide or audiotape; on some occasions visits are self guided.

Visit the most photographed lighthouse in the world at Peggy’s Cove in ‘style’ a chauffeur driven limousine.

Be welcomed by your personal driver/ guide and step inside your limousine for a drive to Peggy’s Cove. Your guide will lead you down to the lower Cove whilst giving you the history of the area and lighthouse. You may even have the opportunity to touch a real live lobster.

See the beautifully carved imagines of life and the people in a piece of granite stone, created by local resident, William deGarthe. Have your camera ready to take a photograph of the amazing rock formations forged during the last Ice Age.

Your return drive by limousine, takes you for a brief stop at Acadian Maple to learn why Nova Scotia produces the best maple syrup, along with a photograph stop at the Halifax Citadel.

Note: The limousine is not exclusive, each vehicle accommodates six passengers. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. The lower Cove is an optional walk with your guide. Guests are advised that the drive to Peggy’s Cove is along narrow and windy roads, also the sidewalk and rocks around Peggy’s Cove can be slippery.

Spend a day in the elegant seaside resort of St. Andrews by-the-Sea – your own way.

Sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery as you travel through the countryside of New Brunswick and along the coast of the Bay of Fundy. Along the way, your guide will entertain you with fascinating stories, historical accounts, and tall tales of life in the Bay of Fundy.

Upon arrival in elegant St. Andrews by-the-Sea, a resort set on the shores of the Bay of Fundy, your coach will become a complimentary, hourly shuttle around Saint Andrews most popular sites.

Visit local attractions such as the Fundy Discovery Aquarium where you can see sharks, seals and rays up close. You can spend some time wandering through the award winning Kingsbrae Gardens and view their superb collection of over 50,000 perennials, engaging animals and much more.

A myriad of shops are waiting on Water Street, located in the beautiful Historic Downtown area where you can pick up locally made artwork, crafts and linens. Stroll along Water Street where you can grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants and enjoy views of the bay and harbour.

For a peek into the past, visit Sheriff Andrews House for a taste of what life would have been like in the 1800’s, or visit the Ross Museum which is home to an extensive collection of 19th century furniture.

Whatever you choose to do, it’s your day – your way.

Note: Shuttle timetables will be provided upon arrival in Saint Andrews. No entrance fees or meals are included. There is approximately 1½ hours of walking at your own leisure.

Named the ‘greatest little city in the east’, experience the best of Saint John by land and sea.

Your local guide will take you on an exploration of the city’s highlights. Have your camera at the ready as you pass through the colourful streets of Saint John’s historic uptown and capture the breathtaking views from Fort Howe. Witness the mighty Saint John River meeting the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy, creating the renowned Reversing Falls.

Board the Voyageur II, a true Mississippi riverboat which sailed the mighty Mississippi River before finding a home on the Saint John River.

During your cruise along the river, you’ll enjoy a refreshing drink as your guide takes you back in time, interpreting the native settlements, lumbering operations and telling stories about the steamboats that once used the Saint John River as a highway. You may even catch a glimpse of some of the colourful wildlife that call this ecosystem home.

Note: Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. There is approximately 50 metres of walking over even surfaces at Fallsview Park. Due to the extreme nature of the Bay of Fundy tide, exact ‘tidal cycles’ of the river cannot be guaranteed.

Wall Street to Harlem, Hudson to the East River and all in between. This tour offers a great insight into New York.

John D Rockefeller first opened the open-air observation deck in 1933 to the amazement of New Yorkers. Designed in homage to ocean liners of the day, it quickly became ‘the’ place to view the city. After renovation caused the observation deck to close in 1986, ‘Top of the Rock’ re-opened in 2005 to a huge fanfare and has reclaimed its status as one of the best places to see some fantastic views of the city.

After you come back down to Earth, continue your tour with a drive through the financial district to visit St Paul’s Chapel and the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site. St. Paul’s Chapel is currently the home to exhibits and memorabilia relating to the 9/11 attacks. A short stroll from the Chapel will lead 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.

The tour then takes in such highlights as Harlem, Central Park, Greenwich Village and Soho. A wonderful day out to see what this amazing city has to offer.

Note: Please note the order of the tour may vary due to traffic in the city. We recommend you take US$ for luncheon at Seaport. There is approximately 2½ hours of walking on this tour.

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 to the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, here you can learn about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum through models, renderings, films and genuine artifacts.

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.

Be prepared to be scared, on this spooky walk around Old Quebec Town.

As night falls and the skies darken, your guide strikes a match and lights the lantern. Make sure you stay close as there have been tales of mysterious happenings!

As you wander down the narrow cobblestone streets, listen to over 300 years of murders, executions, mysterious ghostly sightings, tragedies and haunting. The ancient buildings and historic surroundings set the stage for a truly unique experience.

Note: While the tour is not designed to frighten but rather to fascinate, it is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.

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).

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.

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic city streets lined by charming Victorian homes.

Whether you’re an experienced cycling enthusiast or a beginner, this relaxing tour is the perfect way to connect with Halifax’s natural and architectural beauty.

The stylish 21 speed bikes, are fully adjustable offering you a very comfortable ride. Once you’ve received an orientation, your guide will lead you away from the bustling port to the welcoming tranquillity of Point Pleasant Park, with its relaxed pace. Winding your way through the park, you’ll head to the cities South End, which was home to some of Halifax’s most prominent historical figures. Ride past the home of the famous Titanic millionaire, George Wright.

Note: The tour is a combination of quiet paved streets, with a few small inclines and gravelled area or beaten pathways. The distance travelled is approximately six miles. When operating at the weekend or during a public holiday the itinerary may vary, due to park restrictions. All participants must be at least 4’ 10” and safety helmets will be provided and are mandatory. Guides will give a safety and equipment orientation before departing. This tour is recommended to those who consider themselves to have a good level of physical fitness. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.