Southampton to Adelaide - 59 nights, January 2014

Your tour starts off with a drive into the mountains of Anaga, passing the fishing village of San Andres. On your way, marvel at the magnificent Canary flora, including the 'Dragon Tree' and terraces of tiny cultivated plots of land. Arrive at the El Bailadero viewpoint, where you will have the chance to capture on film some of the stunning scenery.

At the small village of Taganana, you will enter a scene of white houses and bare volcanic mountains, on a horizon of blue sky and shimmering sea. If you wish, you can walk with the guide up the hill to visit the simple church (except Sundays), which houses the figure of 'Our Lady of the Snows'. Local wine and cheese will be served at a restaurant in Taganana.

A brief stop will be made from the panoramic point of Pico del Ingles, where you will have a beautiful perspective (weather permitting) of the north and south side of the island, which is quite unforgettable.


This excursion is mainly a scenic drive, with a few steps and cobblestones at Taganana. The walking is optional. This excursion involves some steep, hairpin bends and is not recommended to anyone suffering from vertigo.

Travel to Klungkung Kertagosha, a building designed and built in 1710 by the best artisans in the country. The area contains a beautiful floating pavilion, Bale Kambang and the Royal Court of Justice, Kertagosa, with elaborate ceiling murals. Continue onto Gianyar, a town famous for Balinese hand-woven fabric.

In Kemenuh, visit a family of skilled carvers who turn slabs of teak and ebony wood into masks, religious figures and intricate wall decorations. Before you leave, you will have the opportunity to browse in the large gallery where you may purchase the finished products as well as enjoying refreshments of tea or coffee, a sandwich and Balinese cakes.

Finally, visit Ubud, an artists’ colony famous for its painters and artists’ studios, galleries and museums. You will also have the opportunity to visit Ubud Palace and Ubud Market in the centre of town.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours of walking on this tour.

Flat-topped Table Mountain, on the northern end of the peninsula, has long dominated Cape Town. When viewed from the city, the central massif has Devil's Peak on the left, Lion's Head on the right and Signal Hill in the foreground: together they form a sort of amphitheatre, which encloses the city centre.

The coach will take you to the lower cable-way station for the ascent to the summit of Table Mountain. The journey takes just under four minutes and the floor rotates 360 degrees during the ascent and descent, giving you a full panorama of the area. There is nothing to beat the mountain top for fabulous views of the city, Table Bay and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

The tour includes a short orientation tour of the 'Mother City' famed for its meticulously preserved Edwardian and Victorian buildings.


This excursion will operate by coach and cable car. The operation of this tour is dependent on weather conditions. In the event of inclement weather conditions, the tour will continue but omit the cable car ride. No refunds will be issued in this event. All guests must be able to negotiate steps onto and off the coach. You are advised to carry a jacket or sweater and wear flat, comfortable shoes and a sun hat. This tour is not suitable for those with a fear of heights. In the event of the cable car not operating - the South African Museum will be visited.

Tala Private Game Reserve spans more than 7,000 acres. Located 1¼ hours’ drive from Durban, Tala is where you may be lucky enough to catch sight of big game such as rhino, kudu, hippo, and giraffe. You will perhaps see some of the 16 species of antelope, including the rare Sable Antelope.

Relax with welcoming refreshments and soak up the views from the open veranda before your adventure begins.

During your game drive, travel in open vehicles with experienced game rangers, who will provide information on the animals and give you an insight into this exciting area.


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.

This excursion will operate by coach and open vehicle. From the coaches, you are required to walk 500 yards, over rough ground and up a few steep steps to board one of a variety of ten and 30 seated game-drive vehicles. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats are essential. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. The roads in the game reserve are gravel with inclines and certain parts of the game-drive can be bumpy. Guests are not permitted to use cellular phones or smoke during the game drives. Pregnant women and children under 12 may not participate. Due to extremely limited capacity, early booking is recommended. Guests are advised that the 4x4 vehicles do not have seat belts fitted, it is not permitted for participants to stand up whilst the vehicles are in motion. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Journey to the Valley of a Thousand Hills to see modern and olden day African tribal cultures in the traditional and spectacular homeland of the Zulu. First shaped by the flow of the great Mgeni River, then by the culture of the Zulu tribes, and finally by the coming of European man, the Zulu drum still beats in these hills.

Phezulu, a recreated Zulu village, is a ‘must-see’, where you can enjoy a small taste of Africa. Dancing and singing are important parts of the Zulu culture and you will get a feel for their power as you watch a spirited display of traditional tribal dancing, complete with beating drums and Zulu dress. Afterwards, explore the Zulu cultural huts and gain fascinating glimpses into African tribal culture.

Become introduced to Phezulu’s impressive reptile park. Take home vivid images of Africa’s most renowned snakes and learn more about the country’s crocodiles.

Refreshments will be served during the tour and there will be time to browse through the curio shop for Zulu crafts and souvenirs.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Comfortable, non-slip shoes and a sun hat are essential. The tour involves steps and uneven ground. Highlights may operate in reverse order. It is Zulu custom for unmarried women to go topless. There are paved pathways and some uneven, sandy terrain, where the show will be held. The village has mostly gravel ground, which can be slightly muddy after heavy rainfall. There is a wooden boardwalk, with a few steps, through the snake & crocodile enclosure. In order to avoid congestion, the order of sites visited may be rotated. The village visited is a recreated village as there are no longer any authentic Zulu villages to visit.

Follow the palm tree-lined Victoria Embankment, towards the Golden Mile and pass by the Juma Mosque, famous for its massive golden dome and turrets. Continue, north up the coast to Ballito, a small holiday town located 25 miles north of Durban, that was originally a sugarcane farm. This stretch of the North Coast shoreline is known as the Dolphin Coast and sightings are commonplace, but not guaranteed.

Umhlanga Rocks is situated just north of the vibrant city of Durban on the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and has the fantastic accommodation, up-market office parks and shopping centres. The golden sandy beaches stretch northwards for more than 125 miles, all the way to the spectacular world heritage site, Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. Inland from Umhlanga, endless fields of sugarcane give way to the tumbling area of the 1000 Hills, the massive Inanda Dam and mystical hidden valleys of Zululand.

Visit a local hotel for high tea before departing back to Durban, stopping briefly at Currie Hill to take in the panoramic views of the city including the Old Market Square, representing the City Hall in Belfast and serving as Durban's municipal offices. Glimpse the Natural History Museum and Post Office before continuing past the Old Inland Revenue Building and Reserve Bank.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. To avoid congestion the order of sights may vary.

You’ll be transferred by coach to the Sydney Opera House with its distinctive roofline that has made it one of the most noteworthy buildings in the world. Make your way to your ‘A’ reserved seats for an unforgettable experience as part of an audience at this famous performing arts centre.

The opera performance for Queen Victoria (Saturday 23 February 2013) and Queen Mary 2 (Tuesday 19 March 2013) is La Boheme. Puccini’s heart-rending love story is transported to Berlin in the 1930s, where the high-spirited bohemians revel in the exotic seductions of the Spiegeltent. It's gloriously inventive lyricism endures as one of the opera world’s finest achievements.

Director Gale Edwards’ ravishing production, with marvel-making sets by designer Brian Thomson and sensual, daring costumes by Julie Lynch, transports the poet Rodolfo and the young seamstress Mimì from the Latin Quarter of 1830's Paris to Berlin in the 1930s. It is here where the high-spirited bohemians revel in the exotic seductions of the Spiegeltent. Romance and tragedy are heightened when the rise of the Nazis threatens to brutally sweep away the glittering pleasures and prizes of Café Momus.

The cast is outstanding. Soprano Nicole Car makes her much anticipated Sydney role debut as Mimì and the magnificent Italian tenor Gianluca Terranova, who shone as Alfredo in Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour – La Traviata, stars as Rodolfo. Their youthfulness and chemistry will bring a blaze of passion to the immortal love story set against the backdrop of a fast-changing world. The acclaimed Christian Badea, who studied with Herbert von Karajan and Leonard Bernstein, returns to conduct the enduringly popular opera.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles. The Opera House describe the performance as not being traditional but it is instead sassy and similar in period and costuming to the show Chicago. Please note Act 2 contains partial nudity.

The opera performance for Queen Mary 2 (Thursday 7 March 2013) is Orpheus in the Underworld. Sparkling melodies, cartoonish delights, pyrotechnics and fast-paced dance routines make this production of Offenbach’s operetta a treat for all ages.

The worlds of musical theatre and comic opera collide when the sensational song-and- dance man Todd McKenney (The Boy From Oz, Annie) takes the lead of Aristaeus/Pluto in Jonathan Biggins’ topical version of Orpheus in The Underworld. The stylish fooling and newly-minted satire by Biggins and Phil Scott re-ignites Offenbach’s 1850s parody to make its vision of lust and power ripe for the times. The sparkling melodies, cartoonish delights, pyrotechnics and fast-paced dance routines make the production a treat for all ages.

The designer Mark Thompson’s imaginative towers and temples, and gorgeous and witty costumes, create a setting as vibrant and bright as a Broadway musical. The production brings together a dream cast of thrilling and diverse voices: soprano Emma Matthews (Eurydice), tenor Andrew Brunsdon (Orpheus), baritone Luke Gabbedy (Jupiter) and mezzo-soprano Suzanne Johnston (Public Opinion), who makes a welcome return to the Sydney stage.

With its frenzied pace, sight gags and a show-stopping finale, it is sure to be the most fun-filled event of the summer season.

Performed in English with surtitles. The Opera House has described this performance as comic Opera however they have stressed that this performance is quite crass and vulgar and they recommend that guests who attend be of an open mind.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The opera being performed on 23rd February and 19th March is La Boheme by Puccini. The opera being performed on 7th March is Orpheus in the Underworld by Offenbach. Guests on Queen Mary 2 are requested to double check the performance running on their date of choice so there are no surprises on arrival. Dress code is semi-formal. Photography is prohibited during the performance. The Opera House has over 200 steps and passengers must walk 110 yards to reach the Opera House. Pre-booking is highly recommended as bookings will close on 4th January 2013. Any bookings received after this time will be waitlisted until further capacity can be obtained. Opera tickets are non-refundable after 4th January 2013.

Passing through the centre of Funchal, your journey will take you steeply out of town along a winding road from which there are spectacular views over the harbour. Drive through the village of Monte, perched in the hills overlooking Funchal, then up through eucalyptus and mimosa trees to Terreiro da Luta.

The beautiful views open out considerably on both sides until the road comes to an end at the summit of Pico do Arieiro, a vantage point at 5,937 feet, from which there are magnificent views on a clear day. The route turns inland to Ribeiro Frio, where you can visit the carefully cultivated grounds of the trout hatchery.

Descend through Faial to the village of Santana, famous for the traditional houses with thatched roofs and densely planted vineyards. Visit the vineyards and enjoy some wine tasting at Quinta do Furão, where luncheon will be served.

At São Jorge visit the Rosarium at Quinta do Arco. With more than one thousand different kinds of rose bushes, enjoy the beauty and colour of this unique garden and wine lodge.

Continue along the north-eastern coast to the village of São Vicente, where a stop will be made to allow you to explore some of the surrounding area before retuning to Funchal.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There will be some steps to negotiate on this tour. The ground is flat but cobbled at most viewpoints or stops. The journey is along winding mountain roads.

Tobruk Sheep Station is one of the most beautiful, authentic, rural and outback experiences in Australia. Set on 150 acres on a high plateau above the Hawkesbury River and surrounded by State Forests, it has amazing views across to the Blue Mountains. After a 70 minute drive through Sydney's north west rural region you will be greeted by a Stockman on horseback, who will guide you to the Drover's Camp where your adventure begins.

Start the morning with traditional camp fire billy tea and damper (Australian soda bread) before sitting back to watch the show.

The Outback Show is an exciting and engaging experience, which includes skilful demonstrations and performances, all delivered with a sense of fun and entertainment. Enjoy the interesting activities such as sheep mustering, working dog displays, whip cracking, boomerang throwing and a wool room presentation.

Luncheon will be an authentic Aussie rump steak barbeque accompanied by bread, potatoes, salad and sauces followed by a traditional Aussie dessert, all washed downed with a choice of drinks including spring water, wine, beer, tea, coffee or fruit juice.

The sheep shearing demonstration includes both blade and mechanical shearing and a brief outline of the history of the shearing industry and the Aussie Shearer. At the end of the demonstration, you can try your hand at shearing.

A truly memorable day.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a total of 45 minutes of walking over uneven, unpaved terrain. Comfortable, enclosed shoes are recommended.

Board your boat for the renowned Jumping Crocodile Cruise, which will take you along the Adelaide River in search of saltwater crocodiles. The Adelaide River is home to 1,600 deadly crocodiles and offers some of the best crocodile viewing in the world.

As your boat glides along the murky waters of the Adelaide River, you will hear all about the crocodile's habitats and habits as well as experiencing superb close-up views of these ancient predators. Have your camera ready to witness their raw power as they launch themselves out of the water to snatch the food offered by your guide.

Alongside the saltwater crocodiles you may also see a wonderful array of birdlife. Relax with a complimentary soft drink as you look out for the diverse range of wildlife which resides in the area.

After your exhilarating cruise, you will continue to the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre to discover more about the northern coastal wetlands, one of the rarest and most threatened land systems in the world. The Centre is located on one of the highest points on the Adelaide River floodplain with a magnificent panorama across the Marrakai Plains and an interesting hands-on facility which explains the eco-system of the area.


This excursion will operate by coach and boat. There are a few steps to negotiate at the gangway of the boat. Wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on the boat due to the width of the gangway.

Stellenbosch is named after its founder, Governor Simon van der Stel, who discovered the broad fertile valley of the Eerste River in 1679. Today, this is one of South Africa's premier wine-producing regions.

Stellenbosch has one of the most beautiful settings of all South Africa's inland towns. Its original oak-lined streets, clear water furrows and classic architecture have all been preserved, and some of which have been declared national monuments. The best way to explore Stellenbosch is on foot and during a short guided walking tour the guide will introduce you to this University town.

Visit the Stellenbosch Museum, which comprises of four different houses, depicting different eras of the town's architectural and social heritage. Afterwards, enjoy some free time.

Your tour is rounded off with a visit to a privately-owned wine estate in the Stellenbosch area, where you can participate in a wine-tasting session and gain a glimpse of the fascinating skills practiced in the cellar.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are steps to negotiate at the wine estate and there will be approximately 30 minutes of walking during the guided tour and free time, when walking is optional. The itinerary may operate in reverse order to avoid overcrowding.

Enjoy an orientation tour of the Mother City with its meticulously preserved Edwardian and Victorian buildings, before proceeding to the Company Gardens, which are situated in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk through these scenic surroundings, passing St George’s Anglican Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament and the National Art Gallery.

The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest building in South Africa, take a tour of the Castle, including a visit to the Military Museum and the William Fehr collection. This cultural history museum contains a collection of old Cape Dutch porcelain, historic paintings and many antique pieces of furniture.

Proceed to Signal Hill, where you will have the opportunity to photograph the views, before returning to the ship via the stunning seaside residential suburbs of Camps Bay, Bantry Bay and Sea Point.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour includes walking of approximately two hours over some cobble-stoned areas and an incline at Signal Hill.

Titanic pulled away from the White Star dock in Southampton at the start of her maiden voyage on 10th April 1912. Five days later in the early hours of 15th April she sank after striking an iceberg. The disaster made headlines across the world and had a devastating effect on the people of Southampton. Of the 724 crew which lived within in the area - only 175 returned home.

Your interesting walking tour commences at Ocean Terminal, which is located adjacent to the site of the original White Star dock. A leisurely stroll will take you through Queen’s Park and past the luxury flats which used to be the old South Western Hotel. This hotel was where the First Class passengers stayed before embarking on the majestic liner. Close by are the old White Star offices where Southampton residents gathered in their hundreds, waiting day after day for news of loved ones.

A walk along Oxford Street will take you past some of the drinking establishments used by the ill fated crew including The Grapes pub, which is where filming took place for the famous ‘Titanic’ movie. At the end of the street are the ruins of Holyrood Church where a memorial to the Titanic crew stands. As you wander past the ancient Southampton walls and through the main shopping precinct, with its eclectic mix of shops, you’ll hear poignant tales of the Titanic heroes and survivors.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the SeaCity Museum. This interactive Museum is filled with information and interesting memorabilia of the fateful disaster and illustrates the impact the liner has had on the city.


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 operates on foot. There is two hours walking on mostly flat ground with some slight inclines. The return journey will be by shuttle bus. Guests can opt to remain in the city centre and make their own way back to the berth by shuttle bus at their own convenience. This excursion only operates when the ship is berthed at Ocean Terminal.

Your coastal drive heads towards Swakopmund, and then east to the Namib-Naukluft Park. The Namib is one of the oldest deserts in the world, home to the world's highest-shifting sand dunes and adorned with a kaleidoscope of vivid colours. Upon arrival, explore the unique plant life and terrain of this arid region.

Continue through the Swakop River Valley and the Moon Landscape. This vastly-eroded valley has an appearance similar to that of the moon's surface, created by the winds that reduced mountains to spectacular rock formations and sand. Proceed for a visit to Welwitschia Valley, where thousands of Welwitschia plants are scattered about. A stop will be made to view these fascinating plants, along with a variety of interesting lichen plants before enjoying a glass of sparkling wine.

Re-board your off-road vehicle for the return drive along the dune belt to Dune 7, and on to Walvis Bay. En route, a brief visit will be made to the Walvis Bay Lagoon and the tidal flood plains.


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.

This excursion will operate by 4x4 vehicles. It is extremely hot and dry in the desert therefore sun hats, sun block, sunglasses and bottled water are essential. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 12 may not participate.

Board your River Cruiser for a relaxing cruise along the sunny shores and canals of the Gold Coast.

Enjoy refreshments of a delicious Devonshire tea as you pass the beautiful sites of the Gold Coast Waterway canal system and broadwater. You will see Marina Mirage, Seaworld and Palazzo Versace, Australia's only six star hotel. View some of the world's most beautiful high-rise apartments and the ever-changing Surfers Paradise skyline from the comfort of an air-conditioned canal cruiser.

On arrival at Surfers Paradise, there will be approximately 1½ hours of free time to enable you to discover the famous resort your own leisure. There is plenty to see and do, you may wish to browse through the many shops and designer arcades, take a dip in the refreshing sea or relax and soak up the sun at this premier beach location.


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 coach and motor-cruiser. There are a few steps to negotiate to board the canal boat and ten steps to access the upper deck. The cruise lasts approximately 1½ hours and is not exclusive to Cunard. The return journey by coach takes 1½ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility – there are many cafés and restaurants at Surfers Paradise. Guests are reminded to swim between the flags on the beach, to take swimwear, a towel and sunscreen. There are limited changing facilities available.