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

A tranquil setting amidst the bustle of commercial Halifax, the Public Gardens encompass 17 acres of lush flowers, duck ponds, sparkling fountains and Victorian footpaths.

The Halifax Citadel is one of Canada's most visited national historic sites and lies on a natural drumlin overlooking the entire city with super views of the harbour. Explore the restored barracks, magazines and corridors, or take in an audio-visual show on the Fort's history.

The Historic Properties area on Halifax waterfront is a collection of restored buildings, including stone warehouses built to hold privateers' booty at the turn of the 18th century. Many of the buildings now house quaint pubs, cafe's and lovely shops that feature local handicrafts.

En route through downtown Halifax, you will pass Province House, the Halifax Metro Centre, the Halifax Clock Tower along with the financial and residential areas.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. At the Citadel there is a fair amount of walking on uneven ground with steps to negotiate to at the panoramic viewpoint. Guests may stay on board the coach during the stops. Total walking time is expected to be around 45 minutes.

An overnight stay in Quebec would not be complete without a visit to the famous Sugar Shack, a traditional log cabin restaurant. Upon arrival you will be greeted by staff and guided through a unique Maple Museum, where you will learn how the maple sap is transformed into the delicious syrup.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with live French Canadian folkloric music, song and dance. A traditional Quebecois all you can eat family style meal will be served. The evening wouldn’t be complete without sampling a real Quebecois hot maple taffy poured over snow, just one of the many highlights of the evening.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and the dress code is relaxed and casual. The meal includes tea and coffee and two alcoholic beverages. Please carry Canadian Dollars if you wish to purchase additional drinks.

Boston and Cambridge are inseparable cities, both bustling metropolis, divided only by the Charles River. Your tour will begin by crossing the Charles River, to Cambridge where a short stroll through the quaint student neighborhood brings you to 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.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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.

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.

Acadia National Park is an enchanting place of mountains, islands and ocean with some stunning natural scenery. As the trail heads off from the scenic Park Loop, your naturalist guide will lead you on a hike through 2 miles of the Park, explaining its eco-system, its geology, natural history, local legends and lore.

Have your camera ready to capture the spectacular views of the coast and countryside from the summit of Cadillac Mountain.

The return drive takes you past Victorian mansions, built by some of the country’s most prominent citizens decades ago.

This excursion will operate by coach or minibus and on foot. The stop at Cadillac Mountain will not be made in adverse or foggy weather conditions and will be substituted with a stop at the Visitor Centre. Depending on weather conditions, the walk covers 1½ to 2 miles, travelling at a moderate pace over level, maintained trails. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers and bring a water/wind proof jacket.

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 will 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.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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).

All aboard your double kayak for a 2½ hour journey around the rugged and majestic Porcupine Islands and Frenchman Bay. As you paddle out of the harbour, you’ll leave the hustle and bustle of Bar Harbor to explore the beautiful shorelines and open stretches of water.,br>
With your guide, enjoy stunning scenery and spectacular views of Mount Desert Island and look out for the Harbour Seals; porpoises; birdlife of all kinds, including Bald Eagles, osprey and Black Guillemots. A dry bag is provided, so bring along your camera to record your experience of them from the water.

ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by kayak. Children may not participate. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

One of the most scenic drives on the east coast is the 27 mile drive on Park Loop Road, offering spectacular coastal, mountain and forest scenery.

Have your camera at the ready to capture the wonderful views from Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard. Here, you can admire the natural beauty of the coastline and Mount Desert Island. You will have free time to browse the small gift shop for souvenirs.

From your coach you can see Acadia’s storm-beaten coastline as you drive along Ocean Drive.

A traditional Maine lobster bake awaits you at a beautiful setting in Bar Harbor. Fresh, home-made clam chowder and steamed Maine mussels followed by a 1¼ pound Maine lobster drizzled with butter and served with potatoes and corn on the cob. For dessert, enjoy fresh Maine blueberry pie along with tea or coffee. Bon appetite.

This excursion will operate by coach. The stop at Cadillac Mountain will not be made in foggy or adverse weather conditions; alternatively, time will be spent at the Visitor Centre. Guests are advised to wear layers as it can be windy at Cadillac Mountain. Additional drinks may be purchased during luncheon, please bring US$.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the Acadia National Park’s spectacular coastal, mountain and forest scenery. Pass through the quaint town of Bar Harbor to view some of the charming Victorian mansions built by America's rich and famous at the turn of the century.

Following a brief photograph stop at the summit of Cadillac Mountain, you will return back to sea level to embark the Margaret Todd, a 151 foot schooner, for a relaxing sail around Frenchman Bay. Your captain will navigate this magnificent vessel around the Porcupine Islands, offering panoramic views of the seaside village of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park with the imposing Cadillac Mountain as a backdrop. Your captain will provide commentary on the geological points of interest as well as wildlife such as porpoise, seal, osprey and Bald Eagle that are often sighted in the area.

This excursion will operate by coach and schooner. The sailing portion of the tour will be approximately 1½ hours depending on wind and weather. Please be advised the schooner may be under both sail and motor power depending on wind conditions. The itinerary may operate in reverse order and will operate rain or shine, so dress in layers and bring along a rain jacket. Do not forget your binoculars. The stop at Cadillac Mountain will not be made in adverse or foggy weather conditions. The Captain’s narration may be omitted in adverse weather or replace by a park ranger's narration.

Your journey will take you through the beautiful New Forest National Park, where you will have the chance to see the famous New Forest ponies which graze on the wild heathland, before arriving at Exbury Gardens. Created in the 1920’s, Exbury Gardens are a spectacular 200 acre site, world famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and shrubs. So spectacular are the gardens that the Queen of England enjoys private visits every year.

The Gardens have been specially created to reflect the changing colours of nature throughout the different seasons. During the spring the magnolias, camellias, azaleas and wisteria burst into flower, whilst the Daffodil Meadow is a carpet of glorious gold. The spectacular collection of over ten thousand rhododendron specimens is at its best with its display of beautiful colours.

During the tour there will be the opportunity to take a delightful 20 minute ride on a small narrow gauge steam railway to see parts of the Gardens not accessible on foot.

The Gardens contain a quaint tearoom, which serves a delicious English cream tea (own expense), and an extensive gift shop selling an array of gifts and souvenirs.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach, mini steam train and on foot. There is up to three hours of walking, which is at guests' discretion. The railway and main paths of the Gardens are wheelchair accessible. There is a buggy tour available on the day for those with limited mobility (additional expense, payable direct).

Located in the Chelsea neighbourhood of Manhattan, a little more off the beaten track, is Chelsea Market, the ultimate indoor speciality food market. Here you can gain a glimpse into the local life of Manhattan.

A guided walk around the bustling indoor market will allow you to learn the history of the 112 year old building, admire the surrounding artwork and granite sculptures as you become immersed in the atmosphere. The highlight of your visit is the opportunity to sample a selection of tasty foods ranging from sweet to savoury.

After your food sampling, work it off by walking the High line, an old elevated railway situated 30 feet above the city’s west side. Today it has been transformed into a park with street artwork and views that look down over the busy city streets and it is amongst New York’s most visited attractions.

Heading back to Chelsea Market, you will sample a selection of wine and enjoy a brief last minute wander through the Market before heading back to the pier.

Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in New York should not book a shore excursion for this port.  New York excursions are available for guests visiting New York as a port call.

This excursion operates by minibus and on foot. This tour involves around two hours of walking and standing at Chelsea Market. The terrain is relatively flat. The walk at High Line is around 30 minutes over varying terrain. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. US Dollars are accepted for purchases.

The 27-mile-long Loop Road to Cadillac Mountain will take you past famous sights such as Jordan Pond House and Otter Cliffs. Most of the land here was donated by the Rockefeller family.

Make your way to the summit of the 1,530-foot high Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on North America’s eastern seaboard. From this vantage point, you will have wonderful views (weather permitting) of Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park. The Park itself is an enchanting place of mountains, islands and ocean with some stunning natural scenery. There will be an opportunity to purchase local souvenirs in the small gift shop here.

From the comfort of your coach, marvel at the impressive views of Acadia’s rugged coastline along Ocean Drive.

Become acquainted with the sights of Bar Harbor town, before savouring the views along the scenic coastal road. During your tour, you will pass through the quaint town of Bar Harbor to view some of the charming Victorian Mansions built by some of the country’s most prominent citizens, many of which have been converted into quaint bed and breakfast inns.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The stop at Cadillac Mountain will not be made in foggy or adverse weather conditions; alternatively, time will be spent at the Visitor Centre. Guests are advised to dress warmly as it can be windy on Cadillac Mountain. The terrain is uneven in places, however guests may remain onboard the coach, if they wish. Highlights of the tour may operate in reverse order.

Perched on a hill overlooking the St Lawrence River, the Château Frontenac is the best known landmark in Quebec. It was here that Roosevelt, Churchill and MacKenzie King met to discuss strategies during World War II and it remains one of the most prominent landmarks of this old walled city. Located 200 feet above the waterway is Dufferin Terrace where Samuel de Champlain built his fort in 1620. From here, you will have a spectacular view of the St Lawrence River and distant Laurentian Mountains. The typical stone buildings surrounding the historic square, Place Royale, were once the homes of wealthy merchants. Place Royale is the birthplace of French civilisation in North America and is consequently one of the oldest settlements in the continent. Built and re-built several times, the square remains the heart of the Lower Town as well as being home to North America’s oldest standing Catholic church. From the Lower Town to the Upper Town you will enjoy a short funicular ride to reach Chateau Frontenac. The funicular first went into operation in 1879 and was reconstructed in 1946 following a fire. It was then revamped with modern technology in 1998 and is the only one of its kind in North America.

This excursion will operate by foot and funicular. There is approximately, 2½ hours of walking on this tour, however the distances are short and there is minimal uphill walking. Please bring along an umbrella or jacket in case of rain. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

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.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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.

Your morning starts with a panoramic tour of Hamburg, where for more than 400 years the Jewish community have influenced the city’s development. En route you will pass by some of the main highlights including City Hall, Germany’s oldest Stock Exchange, and the old warehouse quarter, which was built in Gothic redbrick architecture and houses fine spices, coffee and tea from all over the world. You will also pass through the elegant shopping area of Jungfernstieg.

During your panoramic tour, you will pass by the Jewish Cemetery that dates back to the early 1600’s, as well as the site where the new synagogue stood, until its destruction during World War II. The site is now Hamburg’s Holocaust Memorial, where a voluntary group works towards ‘a world without hate’.

Situated outside Hamburg is the Neuengamme Concentration Camp Memorial. The historical site commemorates over 100,000 people who were imprisoned in the largest concentration camp in north west Germany during World War II. Time permitting, free time will be given at the main exhibition entitled ‘Traces of History: Neuengamme Concentration Camp 1938–1945 and its Post-war History’, which focuses on the history of Neuengamme Concentration Camp and its satellite camps. Before departing a short drive will be made at the Memorial.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Hamburg should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Hamburg excursions are available for guests visiting Hamburg as a port call.

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours of walking included over flat paved ground. The advertised itinerary may operate in reverse. Please be advised that the Museum exhibits sensitive material including some graphic images and displays on the atrocities of war.