Short Break - 2 nights, June 2013

Your scenic drive will take you to the heart of Bruges, close to the major attractions at a designated drop-off point in the city. Please bear in mind that this excursion is non-guided and exclusive of refreshments and entrance fees. City maps will be provided on the coach.

The historic city centre of Bruges was added to the Unesco's World Heritage List in November 2000. The current city boundaries still coincide exactly with those of the medieval city centre, and the spaces and structures that were so typical of Bruges in the past have been preserved.

Take your time to walk through busy squares, refreshing parks and quiet, intimate cobbled streets, not forgetting to visit the modest almshouses as well as the imposing patricians' homes.

Bruges is famous for its 13th Century Belfort, housing a municipal Carillion comprising 47 bells. The city still employs a full-time bell ringer, who puts on regular concerts.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a walk of approximately 20 to 30 minutes over cobbled stones from the city to the coach park, for the return drive to Zeebrugge. This is, unfortunately, unavoidable due to local traffic restrictions. This tour is non-guided and does not include any meals, refreshments or entrance fees.

Your scenic drive brings you to Bruges, where you will discover the highlights on a guided walk. The charm of this medieval city will capture you immediately as it is smaller and more contained than many other old Flemish cities, giving the impression that you have stepped back in time. Your guide will lead you through the narrow, twisting cobblestone streets, passing by picturesque scenes of ancient buildings, tree-lined canals and gabled facades. See the bustling marketplace, Belfry Tower, the Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood (exterior views only).

There is no doubt that Belgium is the country of beer as it offers more than 450 varieties of brew. Belgium’s widely varying landscape enables the most contrasting tastes and flavours and beer is deeply rooted in its culture and tradition. Belgian brewing has kept pace with technology and produces beers that correspond to consumer demand whilst still maintaining the traditional character and range of beers. Enjoy a tasting of four different beers from four unique glasses in a local beer café, before taking to the streets for 30 minutes of free time for shopping.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour over some cobblestoned streets and participants must be over 18 years old.

Ghent’s city centre is straight out of the Middle Ages. It was weavers from Ghent, joined by others from Bruges, who took up arms to defeat the French in 1302.

Your scenic one hour drive takes you along the highway passing the typical Flemish countryside, arriving at the medieval city of Ghent. Your guided walking tour starts at St Michael’s bridge, where you will have the most impressive view of the historical city centre. See the Old Port with gabled guild houses, the age-old Castle of the Counts and the famous ‘row of three towers’ - St Nicolas Church, Belfry Tower and St Bavo's Cathedral.

The highlight of this excursion will be a visit to the chocolate factory. A Belgian chocolatier will show you how chocolate bars are made, using only the finest, freshest and carefully selected ingredients. There will be an opportunity to purchase delicious Belgian chocolates or enjoy some free time for shopping to find the perfect souvenir.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a moderate amount of walking, over cobbled streets and approximately 20 steps at the chocolate makers.

Upon arrival in Brussels, drive past the King Boudewijn Stadium for a photograph stop at the Atomium. This was built for the World Fair in Brussels in 1958 and represents the atoms of an iron molecule. Further on, pass by the Royal Palace, the European Parliament and the Cinquantenaire Arcade.

Continue to the centre to commence your walking tour near the Central Station. Here you can walk through the Old Town to admire St Hubert Arcades and Butchers' Street with its plethora of restau¬rants and cafés. You will be astonished by the beauty of the Grand Place, often referred to as the most beautiful market square in the world. A few blocks further on, you will meet ‘Manneken Pis’ Brussels best known little boy.

During your free time stop for luncheon at one of the many tempting restaurants, and why not try some of the locally famous ‘moules and frites’ with a Belgian beer.

On the return transfer you will pass by the Koekelberg Basilica, before heading back to Zeebrugge.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer to Brussels is approximately 1¾ hours by coach and upon arrival there will be a scenic tour of 1½ hours before disembarkation for the walking tour. There will be walking over some cobble stoned areas in the city. Luncheon is NOT included on this tour to allow guests maximum flexibility.

Enjoy a narrated panoramic drive with scenes of the Flemish countryside, before arriving in Bruges for a walking tour followed by free time.

As you enter this historical old town, the beautiful medieval atmosphere is immediately evident. Cobble-stoned streets twist and turn and centuries-old buildings hover over the canals. A guided walk takes you through the picturesque city passing the Market Place with its merchant guild houses, the Belfry Tower, Town Hall and the Gothic-style Chapel of the Holy Blood (exterior views only).

Enjoy free time to visit the charming Christmas Markets. Browse the stalls selling hand-made decorations, gifts, chocolates and local delicacies. The traditional step-gabled buildings decorated with sparkling lights, the huge Christmas tree and the ice rink in Market Square all add to the delightfully festive atmosphere.

Your guide will lead you to the 'Lake of Love' to your coach for the return journey.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour requires a moderate level of walking over cobbled streets. Luncheon has NOT been included to allow maximum flexibility.

Ypres was reduced to rubble by constant bombardments during the Great War. Now restored to its former grandeur, Ypres contains numerous poignant sites and monuments linked to the war.

There are many battlefields where German and allied armies fought without decisive victories. Take time to remember those who lost their lives at Tyne Cott Cemetery.

Menin Gate is a famous British War memorial and is by far the most important evidence in Ypres of the British presence. The names of 54,896 missing soldiers are engraved on its walls.

‘In Flanders Fields’ Museum is not a traditional war museum. It is not about commanders and strategists, but about ordinary people who endured the war, the soldiers, nurses, fugitives and children. ‘In Flanders Fields’ Museum is active in keeping the veterans’ stories alive for future generations. The innovative hi-tech methods used within the Museum earned it the title of ‘Best European Museum’.

A short visit will be made to St George’s Memorial Church, which stands as a memorial to the thousands who died in the three battles of the Ypres Salient.

Enjoy free time in Ypres browse through the shops or relax in one of the quaint cafés or restaurants for luncheon.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Luncheon has not been included in this tour to allow flexibility. There is approximately 1½ hours’ total walking with steps in the Museum, Menin Gate and the Cemetery.

A short drive out of Southampton will bring you to the New Forest. The New Forest, originally created by William the Conqueror for deer hunting, is a mixture of open grazing, woodland and heath. The Forest has remained almost untouched for 1,000 years and is famous for its tiny villages with traditional thatched cottages and wild ponies which roam free on the land. Today it is managed by the Forestry Commission and in 2004 was designated a National Park.

Your scenic drive will take you through the heart of the New Forest, with its famous New Forest ponies, past a variety of beautiful landscapes to three of its prettiest villages; Hythe, Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

The historic marina village of Hythe is located alongside Southampton Water and on a clear day you can see across to where your cruise ship is berthed. The village also boasts the world’s oldest operating pier train.

The picturesque village of Beaulieu dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its Abbey, Motor Museum and Palace Manor House. Admire the lovely views across Beaulieu River as you pass through this quaint village.

The New Forest capital, Lyndhurst is a bustling village containing tea rooms, pubs, souvenir shops, local stores and ice cream vendors. You will have the chance to visit the New Forest Visitor Centre to view its exhibits, browse the local shops or relax in one of the tea rooms.


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. The sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with a photograph stop at Hythe and Beaulieu. There will be approximately 45 minutes free time in Lyndhurst.

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 narrated panoramic drive will provide scenes of the Flemish countryside, before arriving in Bruges for a walking tour, followed by free time for shopping.

As you enter this historical old town, the beautiful medieval atmosphere is immediately evident. Cobble-stoned streets twist and turn and centuries-old buildings hover over the main canals. You’ll take a guided walk through the picturesque city passing the Market Place with its merchant guild houses, the Belfry Tower, Town Hall and the Gothic-style Chapel of the Holy Blood (exterior views only).

You’ll have time to browse independently around Bruges. The shops are plentiful and overflowing with souvenirs, delicious Belgian chocolates, finely made tapestries and, of course, the world-famous lace - so the opportunities are hard to resist.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot and requires a moderate level of activity. There is approximately 2 hours’ total walking, some of which involves steps and cobblestones.

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).

On arrival in Brussels drive past the King Boudewijn Stadium and make a photograph stop at the Atomium. This was built for the World Fair in Brussels in 1958 and represents the atoms of an iron molecule.

Near the Central Station walk through the Old Town area to admire the St Hubert Arcades and Butchers' Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes. You will be astonished by the beauty of the Grand Place, adorned in its Christmas finery. A few blocks further, meet Manneken Pis, Brussels' best known little boy.

During your free time, visit the annual Christmas Market. No fewer than 220 wooden chalets will be present for the Christmas market. A huge array of Christmas goods, craft products and delicacies will be on sale in the beautifully illuminated shopping area. A 160 feet high giant wheel gives fantastic views of the city and the traditional Christmas tree and decorations.

As the year-end draws near, the Christmas markets blossom in many cities and towns in Belgium. This market with its cheerful lights, delicious aromas and vast number of stalls promises a truly festive atmosphere.

After a short walk back to the coach, pass by the Royal Palace, the European Parliament, the Cinquantenaire Arcade and the Koekelberg Basilica before heading back to Zeebrugge.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour requires a moderate level of walking over cobbled streets. Luncheon has NOT been included to allow maximum flexibility.

Your scenic drive takes you into Bruges, where you will disembark your coach at a designated drop-off point in the city, close to the major attractions. Enjoy Bruges as you please for half a day. Please bear in mind that this excursion is non-guided and exclusive of refreshments and entrance fees. City maps will be provided on the coach.

At the time specified by your escort, your coach will depart from the designated pick-up point for the return drive to Zeebrugge.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a walk of approximately 20 to 30 minutes over cobbled stones between the city to the coach park, for the return drive to Zeebrugge. This is, unfortunately, unavoidable due to local traffic restrictions. This tour is non-guided and does not include any meals, refreshments or entrance fees.

Your scenic drive takes you along the highway with scenes of the Flemish countryside as your companion. On arrival in Ghent, take a walking tour through the old city passing by the interesting guild houses with their steep, gabled fronts.

The Flemish city of Ghent was considered the most powerful next to Paris in the 16th Century and was an important Medieval and Renaissance art centre. The past seems to still be alive and you can feast your eyes during a walk in the heart of the city. Take a stroll over St Michael’s Bridge, which overlooks the old river port and enjoy a view of the well-known ‘Row of Three Towers’, consisting of St Nicholas Church Tower, the Belfry Tower and St Bavo’s Cathedral Tower.

During your visit inside St Bavo’s Cathedral, you will have an opportunity to admire the church’s highlight – the famous painting of ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’, by the brothers Van Eyck. Also of particular note is the ornately carved wooden pulpit.

Enjoy some free time browsing independently through Ghent. Find the perfect memento of your visit in the many shops offering delicious Belgian chocolates, handmade lace and wonderful little souvenirs and handicrafts.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are cobble-stoned streets and small steps leading into St Bavo's Cathedral. Appropriate attire is required for the visit to the Cathedral. From 2012, a five year project to renovate the panels of the 'Lam Gods' will be undertaken. During that process, some panels may be replaced by copies.

Your narrated panoramic drive offers picturesque scenes of the Flemish countryside, before arriving in Bruges for a walking tour, canal ride and free time for shopping.

As you enter this historical old town, the beautiful medieval atmosphere is immediately evident. Cobble-stoned streets twist and turn and centuries-old buildings hover over the main canals. Take a guided walk through the picturesque city passing the Market Place with its merchant guild houses, Belfry Tower, Town Hall and the Gothic-style Chapel of the Holy Blood (exterior views only).

A true highlight of your tour of Bruges will be a relaxing canal boat ride along the serene waterways of this romantic, historical city.

Take time to browse independently around Bruges where the shops are plentiful and overflowing with souvenirs; including delicious Belgian chocolates, finely made tapestries and, of course, the world-famous lace - so the opportunities are hard to resist.


This excursion will operate by coach, canal boat and on foot. This tour requires a moderate level of activity. Guests are advised that there are steps to be negotiated when boarding and disembarking the canal boat. There is approximately two hours' total walking, some of which involves steps and cobblestones.

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.