New England and Canadian Wonders - 20 nights, September 2013

Discover the World Heritage City of Bath with its beautiful Georgian architecture, Roman history and stunning scenery.

The Roman City of Bath and the beautiful countryside which surrounds it, has been described as one of England's most beautiful places to visit. Bath is situated within the south west of England and is a 2,000 year old fabulous spa town, built around Britain’s only hot mineral springs.

Bath offers a multitude of fantastic places to visit and is very easy to navigate on foot. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, the city has some of the finest architectural sites in Europe and boasts a unique and diverse range of historic features, which attract people the world over.

Your visit will begin with a panoramic tour of the city, with your guide bringing the city to life as you pass the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus and the city’s parks, including Royal Victoria Park. There will be free time to explore at your own leisure, enjoy the many street performers, visit the Roman Baths Museum, discover Jane Austen’s connection to the city at the Jane Austen Centre or wander around the fabulous shops.

Note: The transfer time to Bath is approximately 1¾ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling). Bath is relatively flat but some streets are cobbled.

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.

Lonely lighthouses, abundant seafood, fog horns, salt-spray: this tour is the perfect way to capture the essence of Nova Scotia.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the highlights of Halifax, as you travel along the through the historic waterfront and financial district, before heading along the scenic lighthouse route to visit one of the world’s most famous seascapes, Peggy’s Cove. Have your camera ready, to capture the crashing surf and rugged granite coastline of this tiny fishing community.

The picturesque fishing village has long been a backdrop for tales of pirates, rum runners and shipwrecks, not to mention spectacular sunsets. Peggy’s Cove is also home to perhaps the world’s most photographed lighthouse. Enjoy some free time to explore and shop for souvenirs or join your kilted guide as they host a walking tour of the Lower Cove.

Then, it’s time to experience the true taste of Nova Scotia, as you dine on a full lobster luncheon.

Finally, before heading back to the ship, enjoy some free time to explore the scenic beauty and boardwalks of Fisherman’s Cove.

Note: There are no pavements at Peggy’s Cove. The roads are narrow but paved and hilly in places and the rocks around the Cove may be slippery. Guests wishing to have an alternative to lobster should advise the Shore Excursions team on board in advance of the call. The order of this tour 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.

Stroll along the magnificent Cliff Walk Trail and visit one of the most opulent mansions ‘The Breakers’.

Enjoy a walk along a portion of the Cliff Walk Trail, designated as a National Recreation Trail in 1975. With New England’s rocky shore and crashing surf on one side and Newport’s most extravagant mansions on the other, the trail has become one of Newport’s top attractions. Your guide will be happy to share the stories of America’s Gilded Age and the cast of characters that made Newport one the nation’s wealthiest summer resorts.

Passing Forty Steps, you will exit the Cliff Walk just past ‘The Breakers’ mansion. Designed by an American architect, Richard Morris Hunt, for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, ‘The Breakers’ is an Italian Renaissance palace. It was completed in less than three years and stands as one of the grandest of Newport cottages. Perhaps its most impressive feature is the Grand Hall, constructed from beautifully carved stone and marble and rising to almost 50 feet, ranking it the largest room in any Newport mansion.

Note: Due to the popularity of the Newport mansions, you may experience some queuing. Highlights may operate in reverse order. Photography is not permitted inside the mansion, but photography may be taken of the exterior. Guests are advised that there are some steps and stairs to climb at the mansion. The Cliff Walk will take up to one hour at a leisurely pace and includes some steps and inclines. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

A unique tour that combines a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island – two of the world’s most renowned landmarks.

On this tour you will stand at the base of ‘Lady Liberty’, delve into the history of this iconic statue and visit Ellis Island Museum to catch the spirit of the important role this island played in American history.

After a brief drive to Battery Park, at the southern tip of Manhattan, you will board the ferry and take in the sites of New York Harbour including beautiful views of the city including Brooklyn and its famous bridge, Staten Island, New Jersey and the Manhattan skyline in the distance.

Upon reaching Liberty Island, you will have time to walk around the base of this magnificent statue. There will also be a short time to visit the gift shop and enjoy some of the exterior exhibits. Your guide will provide detailed information about ‘Lady Liberty’, its completion in 1886 and her unique history.

Re-boarding the ferry, you will continue on to Ellis Island, another National Historic Landmark. Ellis Island was the main immigration centre for the United States from 1892 until World War II. More than 12 million immigrants were processed at the island, and today over 40% of Americans can trace some part of their ancestry back to Ellis Island. You will have approximately 1½ hour to explore the museum on your own.

Note: Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. Guests will be required to pass through an airline-style security check before boarding the ferry. Some queuing may be experienced due to the popularity of both attractions. Food and beverages are available for purchase at both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Make the most of your day in Quebec and combine the city highlights with picturesque countryside.

From Dufferin Terrace, enjoy spectacular views of the St Lawrence River and beyond. After a brief city overview from your guide, you will have approximately 20 minutes of free time to visit the nearby Chateau Frontenac, a magnificent green-turreted castle or browse the local boutiques.

Heading to the heart of the Lower Town, Place Royale is a beautifully restored market square of typical 17th and 18th century stone architecture, and was the site of Champlain’s first settlement.
Crossing the bridge to Ile d’Orleans, admire the stunning scenery and quaint rural villages, before stopping at a local restaurant for luncheon.

Upon arrival at St Anne de Beaupré, enjoy some free time to explore the lovely grounds, Basilica, Scala Santa and Memorial Chapel.

At Montmorency Falls, view the thunderous waters cascading down a 272 foot cliff, a wonderful example of the force of Mother Nature. Enjoy breathtaking views and see where the Montmorency meets the great St Lawrence River.

From Cap Diamant, take a photography of the Battlefield Park and St Lawrence River from this panoramic lookout point.

Note: Please be advised that there is a ten minute walk on level ground at the top of the Falls. To avoid congestion, this tour will either visit the top or the bottom of Montmorency Falls.

Visit two of the most viewed areas in Nova Scotia – Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg, combined with a wonderful lobster luncheon.

This tour unveils some of the gems of Nova Scotia, from the power of the Atlantic Ocean and one of the most famous lighthouses; to a world heritage site known as the ‘prettiest town in Canada’.

Upon reaching Peggy’s Cove, your kilted guide will lead you on a walking tour of the Lower Cove and village including the famous lighthouse. Learn about the lobster fisheries and the various traps used at the cove and take the opportunity to see and touch a live lobster. You will have some free time to shop in the small nautical souvenir shops and take some wonderful photographs.

Lunenburg was once considered to be the busiest shipbuilding town in the world, and the birthplace of the world-famous racing schooner Bluenose. The town’s distinctive architecture and extraordinary scenic beauty is a colourful reminder of Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage. A lobster luncheon will be served at a local restaurant and then you will have some free time to browse the narrow streets and many galleries in this small quaint town.

On the return drive to the ship a brief stop, will be made at Mahone Bay, famous for its three waterfront churches. This is a real VIP tour to visit two of the best highlights in Halifax, Novia Scotia.

Note: Guests are advised that in Peggy’s Cove your executive coach will drop off at the Upper Cove and pick up at the Lower Cove, in order to make the best use of time at the site. Guests are advised to take local currency, Canadian dollars for souvenir shopping. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.

Capture the highlights of charming Newport and cruise onboard a classic wooden motor vessel for a relaxing harbour tour.

Your tour begins with a drive along the Ten Mile Ocean Drive offering you spectacular views of Newport’s rugged southern coastline and the famous Bellevue Avenue, where you can view fabulous ‘summer cottages’ of the rich both past and present. As you travel through Newport’s colonial district, you will see Trinity Church, the Tennis Hall of Fame and Redwood Library. You will also pass the Gothic-influenced Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, where Jacqueline Bouvier wed Senator John F Kennedy in 1953.

Afterwards, it’s onto the water to experience the spirit and feeling of the Vanderbilt lifestyle aboard M/V Gansett, a beautifully restored classic wooden vessel. During your relaxing 1¼ hour harbour tour you will learn all about Newport and why this scenic harbour is recognised as ‘The Yachting Capital of America.’ As you sail the calm waters of this picturesque and historic seaport, your guide will point out the major landmarks close to the shoreline.
A wonderful experience to see Newport, by land and sea.

Note Guests are advised that conditions on the water can change and extra layers of clothing are recommended. The order of highlights may vary.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pick up some valuable tips and techniques from your professional photographer guide, as you explore the Bay of Fundy.

This tour takes you off the beaten track and along the coast of the Bay of Fundy.

Photograph some of the most iconic images of New Brunswick, including a Bay of Fundy beach, working fishing wharf, waterfalls, and more. Your coastal adventure also includes a photograph stop at the world renowned Reversing Falls, where the mighty Bay of Fundy causes the Saint John River to change direction twice every day and flow upstream.

Note: Guests are advised that there is approximately one hour of walking over varied terrain, including uneven ground. There are 20 steps at Fallsview Park to the lower observation level. Due to the extreme nature of the Bay of Fundy tide, exact ‘tidal cycles’ of the river cannot be guaranteed. Please remember to bring your own camera.

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.