Southampton to Singapore - 84 nights, January 2014

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 7 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 lunch at the Polynesian Centre.


This excursion will operate by coach, minibus and on foot. 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. Passengers 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.

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.

After an exhilarating one hour bullet train ride from Shanghai you will arrive in the city that the great explorer Marco Polo considered ‘the most beautiful and elegant city in the world’- Hangzhou. The capital of Zhejiang Province is scattered with beautiful gardens, lavish temples and the scenic West Lake. Lingyin Temple is one of the largest temples in China and the name translates into English as ‘The Temple of Souls Retreat’. Explore some of the 70, elaborately decorated, halls of worship that once housed over 3,000 monks. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Chinese luncheon served in a local hotel. After luncheon, you’ll board your exclusive boat to cruise on the West Lake. West Lake has long been considered one of the scenic wonders of China and is situated at the heart of Hangzhou. Surrounded by gentle green hills, the lake’s willow-shaded causeways and fragrant cover of lotus blossoms have long been an inspiration for artists. A unique visit to the Chinese Medicine Museum will allow you to experience the healing traditions and different aspects of this ancient field of study. The Museum was built on the foundations of an ancient traditional Chinese Pharmacy and you’ll see examples of over 3,000 years of study and texts written before the second Century BC detailing lists of herbal remedies still used in the present day.

This tour will operate by coach, bullet train, boat and on foot. The drive to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is approximately 1½ hours. There is approximately 3½ hours of walking on this tour.

Enter the mystical world and World Heritage Site of Halong Bay aboard a junk boat. The warm, welcoming smiles of the friendly crew will set the mood as you embark on your voyage into the Bay of the Descending Dragon. Legend says that Halong is the translated name of a family of dragons, which came to help the Vietnamese fight against the northern invaders. The dragons spat jewels and jade out of their mouths and on hitting the sea, these treasures turned to islands which acted as a natural barrier against the invaders.

The Bay is truly a natural wonder with over 3,000 islands and endless limestone grottoes. The junk will stop to disembark guests for a visit to Thien Bung Cave or Dau Go Cave. There are 100 steps to climb up to the Cave and nearly 100 steps down to the exit. Those who do take the challenge will find themselves lost in the colourful and splendid dome of the Caves. The junk will then sail from the drop-off point to pick up guests at the exit of the Caves. Those who do not wish to participate should remain on board the junk.



This tour will operate by motorised junk and on foot. There are several steps to negotiate to board the junk. The junk boats are not air-conditioned and are fitted with very basic toilet facilities. There is no PA system on board the junk. At the end of your cruise, it is important that you remain seated inside the junk and do not venture out onto the open decks during disembarkation. Guests are not permitted to sit on the open top deck during the junk cruise. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. The Cave visit is weather dependent, in wet conditions this part of the tour will be omitted and additional time will be spent cruising the Bay.

Take a guided tour of the famous Sydney Opera House, the world-renowned building which is the cultural centre of Sydney’s performing arts. Marvel at this miracle of architecture and engineering; a work of art that came into existence against impossible odds - to become one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world.

Experience the vibrancy of Sydney, one of the world's most spectacular cities, where ornate architecture from Victorian times contrasts with sleek, modern buildings. See The Rocks (Sydney's birthplace), Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, Sydney Tower, Kings Cross and the artists’ haven of Paddington. Pass through part of Sydney's Botanical Gardens to reach Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for panoramic views of the Opera House, the city skyline, Harbour Bridge and Sydney Heads.

Travel through downtown Sydney for a stop at the coastal resort of Bondi Beach. Bondi is Australia’s most famous surf beach, a crescent of golden sand framed by rocky headlands. Soak up the atmosphere from one of the many cafés overlooking the beach or take a stroll along the pretty promenade.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a walk of approximately 500 yards from the coach to the Opera House and approximately 200 steps inside the Opera House. All surfaces are paved, however there may be some uneven ground at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair. There will be approximately 20 minutes free time at Bondi Beach. Due to a strict cancellation policy enforced by Sydney Opera House no refunds will be given to any cancellations made within a week of the call.

One of the main highlights of Shanghai is the Yu Garden and Old Town area. Take a stroll around the Yu-Yuan Garden, a place of peace and tranquility in the heart of a bustling city. The Gardens date back to the fabled Ming Dynasty and were named 'Yu-Yuan' as ‘yu’ in Chinese means 'peace and health'. The Old Town area, with its vibrant markets, has been one of the city’s most popular gathering places for years. Take a moment to absorb the unique atmosphere as you wander through the small bazaar.

Your tour continues to visit the Jade Buddha Temple. Built in the style of the Song Dynasty, this popular Temple is graced with upturned eaves, bright yellow walls and symmetrical halls and courtyards. Gaze upon the revered 6½ foot-high, 455-pound Buddha statue made of white jade and precious gems. Originally brought to Shanghai from Burma, it is a sight to behold.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are advised that the tour of the Garden and Old Town will be conducted on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours of walking involved in this tour, including some steps at the Garden and Temple. Shopping time has not been allocated, other than during the visit to the Old Town. The lighting in the Temple is low, care should be taken. Photography is restricted in the Temple buildings.

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.

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.


This excursion will operate by coach. 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.

In 1994 the volcanoes Tavurvur, Vulcan and Rabalankaia erupted. None of the 80,000 evacuated residents of Rabaul were injured thanks to the organisation and attitude of the people. During your tour you’ll visit the only Volcanological Observatory in the country, which monitors all volcanic activity. Situated on a hill top overlooking Rabaul’s tranquil harbour you’ will enjoy fantastic views of the ocean, harbour and the surrounding active volcanoes.

Re-boarding your coach you we head towards the Japanese Monument, before taking a scenic drive around Rabual to the Submarine base. You will see where the Japanese forces first landed during the second World War and hid their supplies in a tunnel to use as a supply base. Remains of the tunnel can still be seen today.

Your final point of interest is Mount Tavurvur hot springs. See and smell the bubbling, steaming hot springs, surrounded by active volcanoes.


This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. Please be advised that you must not stand too close to the hot springs. This tour may run with a reverse itinerary. There is a moderate level of walking over rough and uneven ground at some of the sights.

Step aboard a traditional Chinese junk to enjoy a leisurely harbour cruise through the bustling Victoria Harbour, with coffee or tea served on board. The cruise sails out to the Eastern harbour area of Hong Kong, along the waterfront of Central, Wanchai, Causeway Bay and North Point before viewing the Shau Kei Wan Typhoon Shelter - home of the fishing families and their deep sea fishing junks.

A brief rest stop will be made at one of the city’s jewellery factories for you to see the wonderful craftsmanship of the goods. Continue to the small village of Stanley and Stanley Market, famous for its clothes, furniture, oriental souvenirs and great shopping.

Enjoy the sights and scenery as you travel up the famed Hong Kong Peak by funicular tram. Built in 1888, the impossibly steep tram is a ‘must do’ in Hong Kong and will provide you with wonderful views on your way up. At 1,308 feet it offers a great perspective of the city (weather permitting).

Aberdeen fishing village is home to hundreds of water people. Enjoy a brief sampan boat ride before taking a short walk to the renowned Aberdeen Marina Club, where you’ll be served a delicious, typical Chinese Dim Sum luncheon.


This excursion will operate by coach, junk, sampan and tram. There is approximately two hours' of walking during this tour including your visits. Please note this is a fast-paced and comprehensive tour and the order of highlights may vary.

Sit back and enjoy a panoramic drive through Da Nang’s bustling streets as your guide points out the city’s principal sights. Heading south, have your camera at the ready, as you enjoy a photography stop overlooking the Marble Mountains and lush countryside en route to Hoi An.

Upon arrival you’ll visit Cham Museum, founded in 1915 during French colonial rule. The museum features an extensive collection of artefacts and sculptures from the four main periods of Cham civilization: My Son, Tra Kieu, Dong Duong, and Thap Mam.

Vietnam’s principal trading centre, Hoi An reached its zenith in the 17th and 18th century. The town’s architecture boasts a fascinating mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Hindu, Japanese and Portuguese influences. Your guide will host you on a walking tour passing the local market, the Hoi An Museum and a traditional merchant’s house, built to withstand floodwaters in the rainy season.

Admire the Phuoc Kien Temple, devoted to Thien Hau, Goddess of the Sea and the Japanese covered bridge. Enjoy some free time at Hoi An's open market to browse the local products for sale and pause at an ancient merchant house for a refreshing cup of green tea.

A traditional buffet luncheon featuring local specialities will be served.


This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately three hours of walking included. The drive between Chan May and Da Nang is approximately one hour and from Da Nang TO Hoi An a further 45-minutes each way. Comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight waterproof jacket are recommended.

Take in the scenic countryside of Halong, passing villages surrounded by bamboo fences and limestone walls, en route to the Yen Tu Buddhist Zen Monastery. At the Monastery, you will hear the history of Vietnamese’s Buddhist Zen, started in the 13th century, when the Tran Kings climbed into this primitive forest and dedicated their life to Buddhism, following their victory over the Kublaikhan troop.

Drive into the countryside of Halong and stop at a small village. Chat with the farmer at a local home, interact with the children over a cup of green tea, find out how they live and why they worship their ancestors and learn how they make and sell handicrafts from bamboo or clay, following family traditions.


This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There are approximately 30 steps to negotiate at the Zen Monastery and approximately two hours’ total walking time. The ground in the village may be rough and uneven in places. Shoes must be removed when entering the Monastery.

Embark on a scenic drive to the imperial city of Hue. Your first stop is at the Imperial Citadel, built between 1804 and 1835 by Gia Long, the first Nguyen Emperor. The Citadel was modelled on Beijing’s Forbidden City. With your guide, you’ll start your walking tour through the magnificent Noon Gate. As you stroll through the tranquil site you’ll see the serene lotus pond, the Royal Library and the complex’s central pavilion. Admire the Palace of Supreme Harmony, with its dynastic urns and memorial thrones dedicated to the various Nguyen Emperors.

Enjoy a visit to Vietnam’s most revered and visited Buddhist shrine,Thien Mu Pagoda. Founded in 1601 by Nguyen Hoang, the ‘Heavenly Lady’ pagoda was a hot bed of anti-government protest during the 1960’s. Today it is a serene sanctuary where monks recite sutras in the main temple. Afterwards, take time to relax and sample some regional specialities and Vietnam’s formal ‘imperial cuisine’ served as a buffet luncheon.

Located in the hills outside of Hue, is the Tu Duc Royal Tomb. Explore the royal grounds, which features a royal palace in miniature, a pavilion overlooking a lake, gardens and the former royal hunting grounds. En route back to the ship a brief shopping stop will be made at a village renowned for its straw hats. The traditional conical palm hats are fashioned with 16 bamboo rounds representing the prime time of youth. The insides of some hats are inscribed with poems.



This tour will operate by coach and on foot. The tour includes approximately 2½ hours of walking with some steps to negotiate. The drive between Chan May and Hue is approximately 1½ hours. Comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight waterproof jacket are recommended.

Your adventure begins from the harbour, where you will board Atlantis' modern, jet-driven passenger shuttle for a quick boat ride to the dive site. You will then transfer to the Atlantis VI Submarine just off the south east coast of Aruba, where your thrilling dive begins.

Enjoy the opportunity to get a fantastic close up view of the exotic marine life while diving to depths of up to 120 feet. Be amazed by colourful schools of tropical fish, huge sponge gardens and the mystical beauties of the coral fields. The educational and entertaining narration of the experienced and professional crew will highlight this unique experience. All of this is in air-conditioned comfort without getting wet. See the myriad of colours and wonderful blue of the ocean through your window onto this world of water.

At the end of your once-in-a-lifetime voyage, you will receive an official dive certificate as proof that you have participated in the incredible experience that has thrilled over six million guests.


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 boat and submarine. Children under the age of four may not participate. There is a short walk, approximately 100 metres, to reach the shuttle boat. Guests must negotiate a steep 12 step ladder into and out of the Submarine.

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.


This excursion will operate by coach. All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with photography stops along the way.