New England & Canadian Wonders to Hamburg - 21 nights, September 2013

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.


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 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.

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).

The 27 mile long Loop Road to Cadillac Mountain will take you past famous sights like Jordan Pond House, Otter Cliffs and Thunder Hole, where ocean swells converge against the granite cliffs creating a thunderous roar.

Enjoy the stunning views (weather permitting) from the summit of the Mountain; at 1530 feet, it is the highest point on North America’s eastern seaboard. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the beauty of the National Park and surrounding areas.

From the comfort of your coach, you will have impressive views of Acadia’s rugged coastline along Ocean Drive.

Enjoy a stop at The Looking Glass, with its commanding view of Frenchman Bay. This restaurant is located on the sight of Fairview, the stately manor home of Mary Roberts Rinehart, a famous mystery writer of the late 19th and early 20th century. Enjoy a piece of Maine’s traditional blueberry pie with tea or coffee.

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 strong winds may be experienced at Cadillac Mountain. Highlights of this tour may operate in reverse order.

Enjoy a scenic drive through picturesque Bar Harbor, before heading out along the 27 mile Park Loop Road from Hull's Cove to Cadillac Mountain. En route you will pass Jordan Pond House, Otter Cliffs and Thunder Hole. Most of the Acadia National Park was donated by the Rockefeller family, and traveling through the park you will see hand cut stone bridges and other evidence of the family's elaborate carriage trails. A brief stop will be made at the Jordon Pond House to enjoy the view of the Penobscot Mountains and Bubble Mountain from the observation deck before continuing to the summit of 1,530 foot Cadillac Mountain.

After all that fresh mountain air, enjoy a traditional luncheon of Maine lobster bake overlooking the waters of Frenchmen’s Bay. Your lobster feast begins with a 1¼ pound lobster drizzled with butter and accompanied by fresh bread, coleslaw, potato and corn on the cob. Homemade blueberry cake is served for dessert. Dine al fresco, weather permitting.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. On foggy days the tour does not visit Cadillac Mountain, an extended visit to Jordan Pond House or Acadia National Park Visitor Center will be made instead. Flat sensible walking shoes are recommended on this tour. Luncheon at the restaurant will be self service. Steak can be requested as an alternative to the lobster luncheon.

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.


While the tour is not designed to frighten but rather to fascinate, it is not suitable for children. This tour involves two hours of walking over varying terrain including cobbled streets, steps and some slight inclines. Please bring along an umbrella or jacket in case of rain. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

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

Once you’ve received an orientation, you’ll follow your guide and make your way up into the charming and historical South End area. Here, you’ll see the home of the Titanic Millionaire, George Wright and the Point Pleasant Park. You’ll weave your way back through the tree lined streets and into the heart of the city, before returning to the ship.

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.

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.

Children under the age of six years may not participate. The tour is a combination of quiet paved streets, with a few small inclines and gravelled areas or beaten pathways. The distance travelled is approximately 6 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.

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.

The lovely, walled Lower Town of Quebec is full of 18th century charm and history and you can best see this at Place Royale. Listen as your guide enlightens you with tales of Samuel de Champlain’s first settlement in Quebec. Around the corner from Place Royale is the charming pedestrian only area of Petit Champlain. Along its narrow cobblestone streets, you will find an array of quaint boutiques, shops and cafés. From Lower Town to Upper Town, enjoy a short funicular ride to reach the historic walled city. The wonderful vantage point at Dufferin Terrace offers impressive panoramas of the St Lawrence River and beyond, so be sure to take your camera. Board your elegant carriage in the Park des Gouverneurs and ride through the historic streets, passing the Quebec fortifications, the Parliament Building, an imposing Second Empire style building overlooking the city. Continuing along Grande Allée, the Champs-Elysées of Quebec lined with quaint shops, sidewalk cafés and boutiques. Enter the Battlefield Park, then continue through St Louis Gate, along St Louis Street towards the Chateau Frontenac to finish your carriage ride.

This excursion will operate by horse drawn carriage, funicular and on foot. This tour includes approximately two hours of walking over cobblestone streets, although the distances are short and there is minimal uphill walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The carriage ride takes approximately 40 minutes. Please bring an umbrella or jacket in case of rain.

The sparkling Lac (lake) Beauport, surrounded by emerald forest, is an unforgettable location to soak up the beauty of the Laurentian Mountains. Nestled in the foothills of the mountain range, the surrounding colours of the foliage in autumn create an impressive view.

Take a step back in time as you cross the bridge to the Ile d’Orleans, where you will enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque villages of traditional, rural Quebec. First settled by the French over 350 years ago, the island is a veritable open-air museum, boasting more than 600 heritage buildings. A stop will be made at an authentic Sugar Shack, were you can learn about the production of maple products and sample the sweet maple taffy. While at the Sugar Shack enjoy coffee and homemade apple pie.

At the Montmorency Falls admire the 272 foot high waterfall, the highest in the province and 1½ times as high as Niagara Falls.

Please be advised that there is a ten minute walk on level ground at the top of the Falls.

Enjoy an orientation drive of Hamburg including many of the city sights before transferring to Lüneburg.

Lüneburg city is rich in tradition and historically connected with salt – the ‘white gold’ of the Middle Ages. The salt mines made Lüneburg a rich and powerful town and an important member of the Hanseatic League. To fully appreciate the beauty, take a tour of the Old Town on foot. The many important historical buildings testify to the prosperity of the city in the Middle Ages. Even today, salt plays an important role in Lüneburg’s status as a spa town; many illnesses are treated through salt and water therapies.

During your walk through the city and small cobbled alleyways, you will see buildings such as the historical town hall Rathaus, which was built around 1240.

Enjoy some free time, exploring the medieval, quaint town centre with its numerous shops.


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 excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Journey time to Luneburg is estimated at 45 - 60 minutes each way. The orientation drive will be around 45 minutes. There is approximately two hours of walking included on this tour with steps. Flat, comfortable, walking shoes are recommended. Whilst comfort stops at restaurants are usually free of charge, a donation is common. Please be aware that there is usually a charge of approximately Euro 50 cents at public facilities.

Take a drive through the dynamic streets of Manhattan and absorb the sights as you sweep along Broadway. Enjoy a visit to 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 will learn about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum through models, renderings, films and genuine artefacts. You’ll walk through the financial district and view iconic sights such as Wall Street, and the New York Stock Exchange (exterior view only). A brief stop will also be made at Battery Park where you can view the Statue of Liberty in the distance.

Afterwards, rejoin your bus for a drive through the vibrant areas of Greenwich Village and Soho and onto the Chelsea area, also known as the ‘Meatpacking District’. Here, you’ll walk 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 meandering pathways, street artwork and views that look down over the bustling city streets, and it is amongst New York’s most visited attractions.

After the High Line, enjoy some free time to mingle with the locals at the bustling Chelsea Food Market, before heading back to the pier.

This excursion will operate by bus and on foot. This tour involves around 2½ - 3 hours of walking over relatively flat terrain. The walk at High Line is around 30 minutes over varying terrain. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. US Dollars are accepted for purchases.

Setting off from the port, your Old Town Trolley will take you on a ride through Boston. Your driver-guide will bring Boston’s history to life, weaving together colourful anecdotes, humorous stories, and historical information.

During your trolley ride, you will pass by the site of the famous Boston Tea Party, often described as the spark that ‘ignited the American Revolution’. Continue through the city and view some of the highlights including, the Old State House, Boston Common, Trinity Church, the well known Cheers Bar, and Fenway Park. Head to the Historic North End, home to the Old North Church and the Paul Revere House and cross the harbour to Charlestown, where you’ll see the beautiful Bunker Hill Monument and view the celebrated war ship, the USS Constitution.

At the end of the tour, you will be given the option to disembark your trolley at Quincy Market area for some free time. For those guests who choose this option, complimentary transport will be provided for your return to the ship.

This excursion will operate by trolley. This tour involves limited walking however passengers must be able to negotiate four steps onto and off the trolley. There are no stops during the tour.

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$.

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.

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.

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.