Southampton to San Francisco - 27 nights, January 2014

Stand at the base of ‘Lady Liberty’ and 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, enjoy some 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.

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

This excursion will operate by bus, ferry and on foot.The ferry is not exclusive to Cunard and can become busy. 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. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.

South of San Francisco is the famed Monterey Peninsula, one of California's most scenic and historic areas. Your morning departure from San Francisco begins a day-long adventure down the breathtaking California Coast. Relax and enjoy the scenic drive through the quaint beach towns of Santa Cruz and Capitola en route to Monterey. Stops along the way provide an opportunity to view Monterey Bay and the rugged coastline. While in Monterey, you'll have time to explore the interesting sights and shops of Steinbeck’s Cannery Row and admire the beautiful views over Monterey Bay. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant accompanied by a glass of Californian wine, mineral water and coffee.

After lunch you’ll take the scenic 17 Mile Drive to the seaside town of Carmel. Known the world over, the 17-Mile Drive features spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean as well as beautiful estates and mansions interspersed among the holes of the championship Pebble Beach Golf Course. Upon arrival in Carmel, you’ll have some free time to browse the many local art galleries and speciality boutiques for which the town is famous.

Your return to San Francisco will be through Silicon Valley, the heart of the high tech corridor where the dot-com era was born.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Passengers are advised that there will be approximately 2 hours walking involved in this tour. Bookings for this tour may close earlier than other tours for San Francisco.

Stonehenge is Britain's most remarkable and intriguing prehistoric monument. It is as old as the great temples and pyramids of Egypt and remains as compelling today as it was to the people who built the first phase over 5,000 years ago. This mighty symbol is a wonder of the world drawing thousands of visitors each year to witness its awesome majesty and mystery.

The stone circle of shaped stones, lintels, unique jointing and absolutely perfect geometry make it the most sophisticated stone circle in the world. The stones are fenced off for their preservation and protection, however your guide will accompany you along the encircling pathway for close up views and will describe what has been concluded from observations and archaeological evidence.

After a short drive from Stonehenge, you will arrive at the magnificent medieval city of Salisbury, with its historic streets and alleyways, charming half-timbered buildings, traditional eating houses and medieval Cathedral. Salisbury Cathedral is a beautiful masterpiece of early English Gothic architecture which also boasts the tallest spire in Britain, Europe's oldest working clock and the world's best-preserved original copy of the Magna Carta. Enjoy free time to explore this lovely city at your leisure.


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

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer time to Stonehenge is approximately one hour. There will be approximately 2½ hours of free time in Salisbury. Luncheon and the Cathedral entrance fee are not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

After a short drive to the Holiday Inn Pier, you will board a transfer boat and head out to the Seaworld Explorer.

Step aboard the state-of-the-art Seaworld Explorer semi-submarine, developed in Australia for use on the Great Barrier Reef. The vessel does not submerge; you descend into the hull to sit in air-conditioned comfort five feet below the water's surface.

Glide over the Antilla, a 400 feet German freighter, destroyed during World War II. Delight in the surroundings as your skilful captain manoeuvres the semi-sub over the Caribbean's largest shipwreck.

Returning to shore, your mode of transport changes to bus. Stop to admire the magnificent view of the Palm Beach area at the lighthouse, on the northernmost tip of Aruba. You will visit the Casibari Rock Formations, before arriving at the Baby Natural Bridge carved by the surf from solid coral and limestone. You will also see the original Natural Bridge, which collapsed in 2005.

Finally, drive past the Gold Mill Ruins and back to Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba.


This excursion will operate by bus, semi-sub and on foot. This tour includes some walking over rough and uneven ground. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. There are 11 steep steps into the Seaworld Explorer’s hull. Viewing is dependent upon sea conditions. Children under the age of four may not participate. The road to the Natural Bridge ruins can be bumpy. Guests are advised not to climb on Casibari Rock or the Baby Natural Bridge.

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.

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

This excursion will operate by bus and on foot. 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.

Hop aboard your exclusive psychedelic ‘Magic Bus’, pop a flower in your hair and travel to Chinatown. This culturally vibrant pocket of San Francisco was an area of major influence and exposure to Eastern philosophies in the 1960’s. Next, visit the historic centre of the Beatnik Generation, North Beach, pass haunts such as the City Lights bookstore where Jack Kerouac and other pioneering figures of this generation spent their days.

Sit back and adjust your eyes as you are thrown into a psychedelic trip back to 1960’s San Francisco. As you cross modern San Francisco towards Haight-Ashbury, retractable projection screens will cover the windows and fill the bus with music and video about how this bohemian neighbourhood became the epicentre of the ‘flower power’ philosophy that transformed a generation and was home to the ‘Summer of Love’.

Step off the bus and feel the love at the lush gardens of Golden Gate Park, hear how America’s largest urban park was the site of the first Human Be-In and Earth Day, if the weather is nice maybe even join a Drum Circle. The 60’s era video and music of the ‘Magic Bus’ will have you immersed in the era of one of America’s most memorable cultural movements and make you feel present in the past.

This tour will operate by bus. The majority of the tour is conducted by bus. This tour contains material referring to popular culture of the era. Wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on the ‘Magic Bus’. This tour has limited availability therefore early booking is recommended.

Your first stop on this magnificent Miami grand tour is a visit to the Everglades National Park, for an exhilarating airboat ride through the grassy waters. The Everglades’ natural beauty and wildlife reveals itself during a 30 minute exploration of this vast wilderness. Keep an eye out for the numerous native birds and fish, and perhaps a few alligators, which inhabit this curious corner of the country.
<>br> Heading downtown to the heart of Miami, enjoy the unique flavour and ambiance of a typical Cuban lunch served at a local restaurant.

Then it is all aboard the ‘Island Queen’ for an unforgettable 1½ hour sightseeing cruise around Biscayne Bay. Make sure you have your camera to capture the “Rich & Famous” on Palm Island, Hibiscus Island and Star Island.

You’ll re-join your coach and take a panoramic drive through the Art Deco District and fashionable South Beach, before returning to the port.

This excursion will operate by coach, airboat and on foot. The itinerary may operate in reverse.

Your adventure will begin with a brief transfer and a ferry boat ride over to De Palm Island.

After receiving your instructions and safety briefing, it is time for your Seatrek experience. You will make your way down a 20 step ladder that will lead you into the underwater world. Enjoy the sensation of walking on the ocean floor while your face and head remain completely dry. Admire the colourful fish, and see the plane wreck with its many marine inhabitants. Stroll at depths of 20 feet whilst breathing normally - you can even wear your glasses.

Afterwards, you will have time to unwind and enjoy De Palm Island at leisure. Enjoy a refreshing swim, or simply relax on the beach. At De Palm Island you will also find several small water slides and other fun activities to enjoy.

During your visit to the island, a generous buffet luncheon and an open bar will be on offer.


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

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

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

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

This excursion will operate by bus and ferry. This tour is not suitable for those suffering from conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart problems, epilepsy or sinus problems. Pregnant women and children under 10 may not participate. Participants will be required to sign a waiver. Water shoes are advised and participants must be competent swimmers. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any water activities. Wetsuits can be hired at an additional cost, and DVD's and photographs of your experience can also be purchased. US Dollars are accepted. There may be some on site activities that incur an additional cost, these are payable locally. Snorkel equipment is included.

This tour begins with a cruise to the infamous and notorious former federal prison - Alcatraz. Home to the likes of Al Capone and Robert ‘The Birdman’ Stroud, this austere island fortress retains its mystique even today. An award-winning audio tour allows you to explore at your own pace, while hearing actual interviews of former guards and inmates and the fabled escape attempts of those criminals who made their home on ‘The Rock’.

Returning by ferry to the city, you will board a coach for a scenic drive crossing the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge. You will arrive at the artists’ colony of Sausalito, a stark contrast to the prison island. The winding roads, cliff-side homes and houseboat havens make this one of the most unique areas in the region. You will have a short time to stroll at leisure and explore the many art galleries, boutiques and quaint shops in this bayside village.


This excursion will operate by coach, ferry and on foot. A $28 National Park admission fee is included in the cost of the excursion. Passengers are advised that this tour involves approximately two hours’ walking with frequent stops. The ground may be uneven with gravel surfaces and steps at Alcatraz. The tour may operate with a reverse itinerary. Bookings close seven days prior to arrival, cancellations after this time cannot be refunded.

Upon arrival at the Everglades, you’ll board your airboat for a 30 to 40 minute journey through this unique eco-system. With a flat bottom and large driving propeller at the stern, the airboat is able to skim the surface of the shallow waters and traverse this fascinating area. The native Seminole Indians gave the name ‘Sea of Grass’ to this region covered with sawgrass.

Within the Everlades, you'll see a vast array of wildlife including alligators, exotic birds and native fish while gliding over an endless river of grass. The area is known for its rich bird life of large wading birds like the Roseate Spoonbill, Wood Stork, Great Blue Heron and a variety of egrets. Throughout the journey, your experienced guide will introduce you to the unique eco-system of the park. This amazing area is also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles live side by side.

Following your airboat ride, you’ll have a short while to explore the park on your own, including a fascinating reptile exhibit and show. The show will provide you with an informative, interactive opportunity to become familiar with the features of the American alligators.



This tour will operate by coach and airboat. Guests must be able to negotiate one large step down to board the airboat. A gift shop and restrooms are available at the airboat facility. Please note airboat engines are very loud and foam earplugs will be provided.

A short drive from the port will take you to Aruba's Butterfly Farm, one of the island's top ecological attractions. As you step into the tropical greenhouse garden look out for the many colourful butterfly varieties. You will also learn the interesting facts about the species and its life cycle.

Afterwards, your journey will take you to the Ayo Rock Formations, once considered a sacred site by the island's original inhabitants. Enjoy a walk around the two towering boulders, unusual in design.

Your drive will continue along the north coast and on to the Baby Natural Bridge situated next to the former Natural Bridge, which was Aruba's premier attraction until its collapse in 2005. See how the powerful forces of the sea have over the years carved through coral and limestone. Take time to view this unique spot before the return drive to Oranjestad.


This excursion will operate by bus and on foot. This tour involves walking over rough and uneven ground. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Guests are advised not to climb on Ayo Rock or the Baby Natural Bridge. The road to the Natural Bridge ruins can be very bumpy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Located around 1 - 1½ hours drive from New York in Central Valley is Woodbury Common, one of the most popular premium outlets with named brands offering savings of up to 25% - 65%. It is said to be one of the world’s largest collection of designer outlets.

Upon arrival, you’ll have around 3½ - 4 hours to ‘shop till you drop’. Stroll through the charming Colonial American village setting and visit more than 220 outlet stores which include names such as Diesel, Giorgio Armani, Gap, Miss Sixty, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Versace, Adidas, and many more.

During your visit, you may also choose to enjoy the outdoor areas and entertainment centres. There are numerous restaurants and eateries available in the complex for you to purchase luncheon and refreshments.

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

This excursion will operate by bus. This tour is unguided but will be accompanied by a local escort. The level of walking is at guests’ discretion; however guests must be able to negotiate steps on to and off the bus. There are 10 steps to negotiate at the entrance of the Woodbury Common. Please remember to take US Dollars for purchases. Credit and Debit cards are also accepted for purchases.

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.

John D Rockefeller first opened the open-air observation deck in 1933 to the amazement of New Yorkers. Designed in homage to ocean liners of the day, it quickly became ‘the’ place to view the city. After renovation caused the observation deck to close in 1986, ‘Top of the Rock’ re-opened in 2005 to a huge fanfare and has reclaimed its status as one of the best places to see some fantastic views of the city.

After you come back down to Earth, continue your tour with a drive through the financial district to visit St Paul’s Chapel and the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site. St. Paul’s Chapel is currently the home to exhibits and memorabilia relating to the 9/11 attacks. A short stroll from the Chapel will lead to the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, here you can learn about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum through models, renderings, films and genuine artifacts.

Seaport, New York’s original working seaport, now features a museum, a collection of antique sailing ships and inspiring views of Brooklyn Bridge. Here, you will have time to sightsee and purchase some luncheon.

The tour then takes in such highlights as Harlem, Central Park, Greenwich Village and Soho. A wonderful day out to see what this amazing city has to offer.

Please note the order of the tour may vary due to traffic in the city. We recommend you take US$ for luncheon at Seaport. There is approximately 2½ hours of walking on this tour.