Southampton to Shanghai - 72 nights, January 2014

Visit the highlights including the world-famous surfing beaches, the Polynesian Cultural Centre and the dramatic scenery.

Sit back, relax, and let the beautiful scenery of this stunning island unfold before you.

Pass by the Royal Palace, the only one of its kind in the States. Stop at the Pali Lookout, for fantastic views over pineapple fields, Northshore and Waimea Bay. See the Mormon Temple, a shimmering white building, said to be the best example in the Pacific.

A short shopping stop will be made at the Dole Pineapple Pavilion. This wonderful little outlet blends the traditional elements of Hawaii plantation life, with modern retail.

Experience Polynesia in an unsurpassed display of song, dance and lifestyle from seven South Pacific cultures at the Polynesian Centre. Meet the real people of Samoa, Hawaii, Marquesas, Tonga, New Zealand, Tahiti and Fiji. Discover some of the seven different authentic island settings, with informative demonstrations. See the Long Canoes, a floating show bringing the local traditions of Polynesia to life. An IMAX film show is also included.

Enjoy a delicious buffet luncheon at the Polynesian Centre.

Note: During your visit to the Polynesian Centre you can either explore independently or remain with the guide for a guided tour. Maps and an event schedule will be provided. Due to time restraints not all of the Centre can be seen on this visit. The Centre is accessible for wheelchairs and has its own wheelchairs available for rental. Guests are advised that there will be a moderate amount of walking involved over flat and even surfaces. There are steps to reach the IMAX theatre.

Experience the highlights of Lower Manhattan and the 9/11 Memorial by land and sea.

Beginning in Midtown, you will be transferred by coach from Manhattan Cruise Terminal to Pier 84 to board a water taxi. Absorb the imposing views of Manhattan as you cruise along the Hudson River, New York Harbour and get an up close view of the Statue of Liberty.

Battery Park is located at the southern tip of Manhattan and is the starting point of your walking tour to the World Trade Center. Around every corner are famous sights and locations like Broadway, and the famous “Charging Bull” Statue which has become the unofficial symbol of Wall Street.

The newly completed 9/11 Memorial consists of two massive pools set within the original footprints of the Twin Towers with 30-foot waterfalls cascading down their sides. Take some time to reflect and pay your respects to those that lost their lives there. A short stop at the Visitors Centre will give you chance to purchase souvenirs and also view the on-going construction of the site which, when finished will be home to New York’s tallest building, One World Trade.

A final walk through the financial district will allow you to see many of the iconic places that New York is so famous for including Wall Street, The NY Stock Exchange and Trinity Church.

Note: All guests and baggage are subject to security screening and inspections at the Memorial. No large bags will be permitted onto the Memorial. This is mainly an outside tour so please dress appropriately. The itinerary may be adjusted to ensure that you arrive at the Memorial as scheduled.

Enjoy magnificent views and stylish buildings on this leisurely tour around Brisbane and its surrounding area.

Brisbane has the look of a city that has recently grown-up. Much of the old and unsightly has been bulldozed and replaced with glittering glass and concrete towers, hotels and paved shopping malls.

On this leisurely drive around the cosmopolitan and lively City of Brisbane, you will have the opportunity to see many sights including the historical buildings of Parliament House, the Treasury Building, Customs House and the City Hall.

Continuing on to Mount Coot-tha look-out, you will be able to enjoy an unequalled panoramic view over the city’s modern, sleek skyscrapers and picturesque suburb. On a clear day you can see as far as the Glass House Mountains to the North, the Gold Coast Hinterland to the South and Moreton and Stradbroke Islands to the East.

Your journey will take you past South Bank Parklands, a 42-acre sub-tropical park built on the site of the 1988 World Expo, to Kangaroo Point Cliffs. A brief stop here will provide a vista of the city skyline with the meandering Brisbane River below.

The unusual blend of historic buildings, modern architecture and lush inner city parks make this a city not to be missed.

Note: All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with photography stops along the way.

Combine the city sights and panoramic views of the Gold Coast with high tea at the luxurious Palazzo Versace.

From Brisbane you will head south to the famous Gold Coast, where you will find Q1 Resort, one of the world’s tallest residential towers. A stop will be made to allow you to take the elevator up 77 floors to the Skypoint, Australia's only beachside observation deck, located at the top. Rising a sheer 755 feet into the sky you will be able to take in the 360 degree views of the Gold Coast that extend from the surf to the hinterland and beyond. After the amazing views from above, rejoin your coach and listen as your guide points out many of the interesting city sights before arriving at the Palazzo Versace.

Palazzo Versace is the evolution of the Versace lifestyle, a place of Renaissance splendour and elegance in a location of breathtaking beauty. In a spectacular waterfront setting, every aspect of architecture, ambience, furnishings and ornamentation reflects the level of opulence once confined to the grand hotels of Europe. Enjoy a delicious high tea of scones with jam and cream, selected cakes and finger sandwiches together with your choice of tea or coffee in one of the hotel’s stylish rooms.

After your high tea, you will have free time to explore the boutique shopping strip of Marina Mirage, which is located next to Palazzo Versace. Alternatively you may take a stroll along the beautiful beach front.

Note: Walking is at guests’ own discretion. There will be approximately 45 minutes of free time at Marina Mirage. This excursion is not recommended for guests who do not like heights.

Enjoy a VIP tour of the medieval town of Romsey with its stunning Abbey, interesting history and links to Florence Nightingale.

Discover the medieval 7th century market town of Romsey. This quaint town with its tudor character and historical buildings is where the Prince and Princess of Wales began their honeymoon in 1981.

Your first stop will be at the country estate of Embley Park, former home of Florence Nightingale. Florence, also known as ‘The Lady with the Lamp’ was the founder of modern nursing which began during the Crimean War. You’ll be shown an interesting presentation illustrating her pioneering work on nursing and sanitary reforms which she achieved during her life before taking a guided tour of the west wing of the grand house and gardens. Florence is said to have had a calling from God whilst seated beneath a giant cedar tree in the grounds. Refreshments of tea, coffee and cake will be served in the library.

Nearby, at St Margaret’s Church, you’ll be able to see Florence’s grave with its ornate headstone. Thousands of people from all over the world come here annually on her birthday, the 12th May (International Nurses Day), to celebrate her contribution to health reformation.

On arrival in the historic town centre of Romsey, you will receive a VIP welcome from the Mayor, in his colourful official robes, before visiting the beautiful stone 10th century Romsey Abbey. Inside the Abbey you’ll discover the fine Norman architecture, elaborate stonework, magnificent stained glass windows and interesting memorials as you hear of its history and how it managed to survive the Dissolution of Monasteries in 1538.

Before returning to the ship, you’ll have around 30 minutes of free time to explore the historical town further or browse the boutiques and shops.

Note: N/A

A tour by pedal power is a great way to discover Sydney’s numerous attractions.

A bicycle is a great way to get ‘out and about’ and see the wonderful sights that the exciting city of Sydney has to offer.

This leisurely, scenic ride will take you through beautiful parks and charming neighbourhoods using special bike paths. Your guide will give you an insight into local life as you pass scenery, points of interest and glimpse stunning beach views. There will be plenty of stops on the way to capture the sights on camera. A well deserved rest will be given half way through at a typical Aussie pub.

During your ride you will see over 30 of Sydney’s attractions including the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Tower and Hyde Park. This is a great tour to work off any extra pounds you may have gained whilst onboard!

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the ‘Guide to Symbols’ in this brochure. Equipment is provided, including helmets, which must be worn. A brief orientation and safety briefing will take place before the tour begins. The ride is suitable for all skill levels but participants must be over eight years old. Refreshments at the pub are at guests own expense.

Capture the beauty of the underwater world of Aruba and discover what lies beneath.

Enjoy a short drive from Oranjestad to the Holiday Inn Pier where you will board a transfer boat that takes you out to the Seaworld Explorer. This fully air-conditioned state of the art semi-submarine is the best way to explore Aruba’s beautiful underwater world. It does not submerge; you descend into the hull of this cruising underwater observatory to explore sea life through clear glass windows.

Your skilled captain and knowledgeable narrator will guide you through the beautiful Arashi Reef, filled with intricate coral formations and hundreds of tropical fish.

The wreck of the Antilla, a German freighter destroyed during World War II, lies on its side in 60 feet of water, where it is only partially submerged. At over 400 feet in length, it is the largest wreck in the Caribbean.

From the wreck, you will return to the shore by boat and drive back to the ship.

Note: Children under the age of four may not participate. Guests must negotiate 11 steep steps into the Seaworld Explorer’s hull.

Combine a visit to Europe’s most intriguing prehistoric monument, with the enchanting medieval city of Salisbury.

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’ll 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.

Note: 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).

Take a scenic train journey though the lush countryside and relax on a gentle boat ride along the Tarcoles River and surrounding mangroves.

Take a journey deep into Costa Rican culture and countryside on board the newly-restored cars of the Pacific Railroad train. Learn how this train was used to transport the country’s valuable coffee harvests from the highlands to the coastal ports. Pass though small towns and the beautiful rural countryside as you enjoy your delightful rail journey.

After arriving to Ceiba, which is famous for its tropical mangoes and oranges, you will board a coach and head to the Tarcoles River. Tarcoles is surrounded by many different varieties of mangrove and is teeming with wildlife. You will see cormorants, pelicans and frigates as you glide over the calm waters in your riverboat. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the shy crocodiles, huge iguanas and lizards as well as herons, egrets and storks in search of a bite to eat on the riverbanks.

At the Mangrove Station, you will be treated to some delicious local refreshments.

Note: There is very little walking involved although there are four large steps to board the train. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

A unique opportunity to meet the weird and wonderful sloth and enjoy a relaxing canoe ride and nature trail.

At the Aviarios del Caribe Sanctuary, you will board your five-man canoe for 30 minutes of gliding through the lush tropical vegetation that surrounds the Estrella River. In this area, it is common to see monkeys, sloths, river otters, caiman, birds, butterflies and amphibians.

On your return, a short video introduces the unique sloth. Sloths are tree-dwelling creatures related to the anteater and armadillo family. Their slow and gentle nature, long limbs and small heads make them very peculiar and totally enchanting creatures. Meet the individual animals in the Sanctuary to learn their stories and hopes for their future.

After your visit with the sloths, you will be invited to take an easy, guided walk through the forest, followed by some tropical fruits and refreshments.

Note: The forest trail and canoe ride is optional. Guests are requested not to use flash photography near the sloths. Donations to the Sanctuary are welcome. The itinerary may operate in reverse order.

By day San Francisco is an exciting city, but by night this ’jewel in America's crown’ takes on a new sparkling dimension.

Your adventure begins as you enter the gates of San Francisco's famed Chinatown for a guided evening walk, where you’ll discover the hidden treasures of one of the largest Chinese communities outside of Asia. Your senses come alive with sights and sounds as you explore the secrets of these narrow streets and alleyways. Sights include the Chinese markets, theatres, herb shops, temples and more. You’ll even visit a fortune cookie factory for good luck!

Afterwards, hop onboard your coach to view exciting San Francisco by night. Drive past the glittering lights of Fisherman's Wharf and view Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower, the Broadway Strip and the historic Ferry Building. Cross the Bay Bridge to Treasure Island and savour a breathtaking view of the city by night before returning to your ship.

Note: This tour may repeat some of the areas seen on the San Francisco City Highlights Tour.

Enjoy a scenic drive to the enchanting Ho’olawa Valley and hike in the lush tropical rainforest.

Hike for a mile each way along two streams that wind through verdant rainforest with a great variety of trees, flowers, bamboo, ferns and vines. The streams cascade down the mountain with several waterfalls from three to twelve metres high and every falls has a large pool perfect for those who want to swim. It is unusual for a Hawaiian valley to have so many waterfalls so close together, so this valley is a rare treat to visit. You will sample wild fruits and herbs along the trail and be able to try wild Shampoo Ginger (Awapuhi) in your hair during the summer.

Throughout your tour you will learn of Hawaii’s geology, botany, culture and history from your friendly and knowledgeable tour guides.

Note: Guests will be supplied with rain wear, insect repellent and water shoes. Wear a swimsuit under comfortable clothing, hiking or tennis shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses and bring a towel. Guests should be in reasonable physical condition and should expect to hike up and down some short distances that involve using their hands in steep places. Minimum age is six years old; all guests under the age of 18 years should be accompanied by an adult. Before booking this excursion you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

An once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the thrill of sailing as part of a team on an America’s Cup yacht.

The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy and ultimate yachting regatta. Usually the domain of billionaires and elite yacht owners, America's Cup Class yachts NZL 68 and NZL 41 offer the unique opportunity to race an authentic America’s Cup yacht, the equivalent to driving a Formula 1 race car.

Your two hour sailing experience starts in the Viaduct Harbour where you meet the professional crew and are taken through a safety briefing. The sails are hoisted and you will become the crew, encouraged to take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or if you prefer you can simply sit back and enjoy the action as you sail down the beautiful Auckland Harbour.

Experience is not required and the yachts are suitable for everyone from experienced racers to the most apprehensive first time sailor.

Note: A 15 minute walk along flat terrain is required to reach the berth of the America’s Cup yacht. Soft soled, non-slip shoes should be worn. Toilet facilities onboard the vessels are basic. Pregnant women and children under ten cannot participate. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the ‘Guide to Symbols’ in this brochure.

A tour that combines two of the most popular attractions – the Iao Valley State Park and a working Tropical Plantation.

Your tour begins with a guided one hour drive to Iao Valley State Park. View one of the main highlights of the Park, the ‘Iao Needle’, a 2,250 foot cinder cone pinnacle that dominates the surrounding lush terrain. You will enjoy a walk in the Park where you will see impressive views of the Valley and beyond.

Next you will visit one of Maui's most interesting sights, the Maui Tropical Plantation. During your visit to this working plantation, you will take a 35 minute narrated tram tour, through fruit fields and flower orchards and along the way you will also see fields of coffee beans, bananas, macadamia nuts, papayas, mangoes and orchids.

You will also have the chance to see a coconut husking demonstration. There will be a short time at the plantation to do some souvenir shopping.

Note: Guests are advised to wear flat, comfortable walking shoes.

Tour the ancient castle of Shimabara, before strolling through a Samurai house that preserves the ways of the warrior class.

Sit back and relax as your panoramic drive takes you east out of Nagasaki, passing the Ariake Bay to the mountainous Shimabara peninsula.

The city of Shimabara is a classic 17th century ‘castle town’, with its formidable Shimabara Castle. Tour the impressive castle and visit the small museum, which features an exhibit on early Christianity in Japan, as well as feudal swords and armour. Take part in a walking tour of Shimabara where a few Samurai houses have survived feudal times in the Teppo-cho district.

After a Japanese luncheon served at a local restaurant, visit the remains of the small village of Mizunashi Honjin, buried by ashes during an eruption of Mount Fugen in 1991. A few roofs remain visible above the ash and debris. The village has been preserved as a memorial to those who lost their lives.

Upon your return to Nagasaki your final stop will be at the Peace Memorial Park.

Note: The journey to Shimabara peninsula is approximately two hours. Views of Ariake Bay are weather dependant. There is approximately two hours of walking involved on this tour and comfortable, non-slip shoes and bottled water are recommended. Only Japanese Yen will be accepted by local vendors.