Brisbane to Hong Kong - 25 nights, March 2014

Embark on a drive through some of the outer suburbs of Brisbane before crossing the iconic Story Bridge with its amazing views of the city.

At the boat pier, you will board the grand timber Mississippi style paddle steamer for a cruise along Brisbane River, through the heart of Brisbane and the Wharf Area. Listen to the informative commentary that will introduce you to the city’s landmarks, its culture and people. View the multimillion-dollar mansions on the river at Norman Park, the historic building of Shafston House at Kangaroo Point and the Story Bridge. Marvel at the eclectic mix of historic and modern architecture, and travel past the extensive South Bank Parklands, developed on the site of 1988 World Expo. Savour a light morning tea as you experience the ambience and atmosphere aboard this majestic paddle steamer.
Before returning to the ship, a brief coach tour of Brisbane’s in-land sights will complete your overview of this fascinating city.


This excursion will operate by coach and paddle steamer. There is a walk of 500 yards from the coach to the paddle steamer and approximately three steps to board the vessel. If you wish to access the sun deck a further ten steps will need to be negotiated.

An air-conditioned minivan with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made. Minivans will take up to four guests. Take a guided walking tour exploring the narrow alleys and cobblestoned lanes of the Old Town. Traverse the zigzag bridge and see the charming pavilion teahouse. As well as some shopping time in the Old Town, the highlight of your stop here is the Yu Garden, a classic Ming Dynasty garden home with traditional halls and pavilions. Enjoy a family-style Chinese luncheon at a hotel in the city. Visit the Shanghai Museum, one of this city’s foremost treasures. Its collection of 110,000 historical objects and 430,000 reference pieces enjoy worldwide fame. No visit to Shanghai would be complete without seeing the wonderful Jade Buddha Temple, featuring a priceless Buddha statue carved from one piece of white jade.The temple was built in the Song Dynasty and is still an active venue for Buddhist events. Inspired by the widow of Dr Sun Yat-sen, the Children’s Palace is dedicated to furthering the talents of gifted children, allowing them to pursue their talents in music, dance, science, art and more. Meet these gifted young people and observe their many talents and skills.

There is approximately 3½ hours of walking on this tour, including some steps and inclines. The Jade Buddha is displayed on the second floor of the Temple. Should you wish to purchase any art and craft items at the Children’s Palace, it is recommended you take Chinese Yuan. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. The lighting in the Temple is low, and care should be taken. Photography is restricted in the Museum and Temple buildings.

There is approximately 3½ hours of walking on this tour, including some steps and inclines. The Jade Buddha is displayed on the second floor of the Temple. Should you wish to purchase any art and craft items at the Children’s Palace, it is recommended you take Chinese Yuan. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. The lighting in the Temple is low, and care should be taken. Photography is restricted in the Museum and Temple buildings.

Take a short cruise to Daydream Island Resort and Spa and indulge in a true island experience. You will have approximately five hours to do as little or as much as you want. Swim, snorkel, sunbath, relax, take a spa tour or enjoy a leisurely rainforest walk.

The island has a unique outdoor lagoon which contains a living reef of over 50 varieties of fish, rays, baby sharks and coral species collected under special license from the Barrier Reef. There are experienced marine biologists available to guide you through this amazing and very unique educational experience.

For those who crave a bit more adventure there will be scheduled complimentary activities available including a catamaran cruise, kayaking, tennis, beach volley ball and aqua aerobics. An activity list will be provided on arrival.

During the day a sumptuous barbeque buffet luncheon will be served at the Fishbowl Bar and Tavern.


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 catamaran. Walking is at guests' own discretion. The terrain includes sand and some uneven surfaces. Watershoes are recommended if swimming or snorkelling as there may be coral fragments or stones underfoot. Snorkelling equipment is available to hire. Guests are advised that the scheduled activities are subject to availability, so booking on arrival is recommended. These activities are supplied by independent suppliers and are not connected to Cunard. Guests are reminded to bring a towel, hat, swimwear, sunscreen and local currency.

The bustling street market in Stanley is ideal for those shoppers who like to practise their bargaining skills. Stanley Market has an array of shops and stalls, ranging from brand name clothing to sports shoes, art, woodcarvings, ornaments and leather goods. This is an ideal place to pick up some souvenirs for friends and relatives and you can also wander along the waterfront lined with bars and restaurants. At the western end of Stanley’s main street also lies Tin Hau Temple, one of the oldest in Hong Kong.

Your next destination will be a jewellery factory in the harbour-side area of Aberdeen, where you can see how pieces of hand-made jewellery are put together. You will, of course, have an opportunity to purchase any of the gems which take your fancy.

Visit Hollywood Road and Cat Street, small lanes filled with stalls selling curios and antiques - it’s a perfect place to find woodblock prints, china, porcelain, Buddha statues, snuff, perfume bottles and much more. Even if you decide not to purchase any of the unusual and interesting items on sale, the experience and atmosphere of being in amongst Hong Kong’s bustling streets and markets is sure to enthral you.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are advised to take care of personal possessions whilst in crowded areas. The authenticity of designer clothing cannot be guaranteed and Cunard cannot be held responsible for the quality of items purchased during this tour. Walking is involved at all stops.

Take a ride through the Bund, Shanghai’s old town waterfront. This area was formerly the financial hub of colonial Shanghai and showcases outstanding examples of foreign buildings from the pre-1950’s.

You will drive through the under-river tunnel to the Pudong Economic Area, glimpsing the contrasts between old quarters and modern developments. Stop for photographs at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, considered by some to be one of the most vulgar structures in the East.

Next pass by the Jinmao Hyatt Building, one of the tallest building in China, featuring 88 floors of shimmering glass and steel. Take the express elevator to the observation floor on the top of the building for amazing views of the sprawling city of Shanghai.

Stop at People’s Square, located on the site of an English colonial racecourse. Long considered the city’s commercial, cultural and political hub, People’s Square is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity to people-watch, take a short stroll or photograph the surrounding sights.

Return to the ship via the French Quarter, a former residential area for French colonists.


This excursion will operate by coach. Guests not wishing to take the high speed lift to the top of the Hyatt tower may remain on board the coach. Delays can be expected prior to boarding the lift to the observation floor due to its popularity. Walking at People's Square is optional. The tour sequence may vary depending on traffic conditions in Shanghai.

One of the city’s most popular spots is Victoria Peak, where visitors from all over the world come to see the spectacular views. Weather permitting, take the tram ride for a wonderful panorama of the city’s skyscrapers, harbour and the hills of Kowloon in the distance.

The first store selling artefacts was opened at Stanley Market in 1973. Since then, the site has developed into a busy tourist area selling clothing, handicrafts, leather, silk, cashmere, watches and souvenirs. As well as shopping, the village of Stanley offers an attractive waterfront, lined with small bars and restaurants.

The renowned fishing village of Aberdeen is home to hundreds of people who spend their entire life on the water. The renowned fishing village of Aberdeen is home to hundreds of people who spend their entire life on the water. Take this wonderful opportunity to take a short sampan boat ride, taking in the fascinating sights by water. A quick stop will be made at a Jewellery factory to freshen-up and browse the collection of hand-made jewellery.

One of the first traditional-style temples built 100 years ago, Man Mo has a great canopy dominating the temple with huge hanging coils of incense. The incense is donated by those making offerings to the Taoist gods of literature (Man) and war (Mo).

During your tour, you will also see modern high-rise skyscrapers, a busy harbour and traditional ways of life on the water.


This excursion will operate by coach, sampan boat and on foot. This tour involves approximately two hours of walking in total, including visits.

Take in the interesting sights during your 90-minute coach ride to Zhujiajiao. En route, visit the Tianhou Silk Factory. Your guide will show you through the workshops and explain how silk is made. There will also be an opportunity to shop for silk products and gifts in the factory’s gift store.

The ancient town of Zhujiajiao is well known throughout China as its history dates back over 1,700 years. Endowed with the elegant name ‘Pearl Stream’, the little town of Zhujiajiao is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in the area. Old bridges, bubbling streams and willow trees add to the allure of this small water town. A typical Chinese style luncheon will be served in a local restaurant.

En route back to Shanghai you will visit the Qicai Silk Factory. Walk with your guide through the workshops and listen as they explain the silk making process. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to shop for silk products and gifts in the factory’s gift shop.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The surfaces in Zhujiajiao are very rough and uneven with cobbled streets and steps. There is approximately 2-2½ hours of walking involved on this tour. The gift store at Qicai Silk Factory will accept major credit cards and foreign currency. Some shops accept US Dollars, however it is advisable to take Chinese Yuan.

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.

An air-conditioned car with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made. Cars will take up to 2 guests. 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.

Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only one ticket per party should be booked and the full cost will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour. 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.

Few cityscapes are as spellbinding as the view of Hong Kong from the Peak, the green-swathed mountain that looms above Central’s tight-packed ranks of skyscrapers. Cool, clear and removed from the city's bustle, the area has long been one of the city's most exclusive retreats. Ride up on the famous Peak Tram, built in 1888, a wonderful way to reach the Peak Tower, a small complex of shops, cafés and other minor attractions at the tram's upper terminal.

After returning to ground level, proceed to the Peking Garden Restaurant where your traditional eight course Beijing duck dinner will be served in a bustling and lively atmosphere.

The multimedia spectacle Symphony of Light Show employs coloured lights, lasers, holograms and searchlights synced to music to transform 33 buildings along Victoria Harbour. Hailed as the World’s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show by Guinness World Records, the show commemorates the energy, spirituality and diversity that is Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is one of the world’s great movie capitals, and the Avenue of Stars is the island’s answer to Hollywood’s famous Walk of Fame. The Avenue also features a towering Hong Kong film awards statuette and a life-size statue of the legendary Bruce Lee. Temple Street night market is lined with row after row of brightly lit stalls hawking inexpensive goods. The wares range from clothing, jewellery and accessories to CDs, electronic gadgets and luggage.


This excursion will operate by coach, tram and on foot. There is approximately two hours of walking on this tour.Guests may be required to queue at the Peak Tram station and the order of sights may operate in reverse to avoid congestion. One soft drink or local beer will be included.

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.

Take a leisurely drive through the city, where you will pass the Botanical Gardens, the historic Parliament House, the Treasury Building, City Hall and Old Customs House. See the South Bank Parklands and Cultural Centre, which combine the State's Art Gallery, Performing Arts Complex, Museum and Library in a splendid riverside setting. Before arriving at the Koala Sanctuary, stop at Mt Coot-tha Lookout to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, founded in 1927, is the world's oldest and largest Koala Sanctuary and contains over 130 koalas. Set in beautiful, natural surroundings, the sanctuary is also home to many other species of native Australian wildlife including Kangaroos, Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, Echidnas, Kookaburras, Emus, Cassowarys, various species of Reptiles and a Platypus.

You may wish to hold and have your photograph taken cuddling a Koala (additional expense payable locally), or hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies that roam freely around the grounds. There are daily talks, shows and presentations given throughout the visit to teach you more about these unusual animals.


This excursion will operate by coach. The visit to the Sanctuary is unguided therefore walking is at guests' own discretion. The terrain consists of pavements, a slated wooden boardwalk and compacted gravel/turf. Guests with colds or flu are advised not to handle the koalas. Please check on arrival at the sanctuary for the times of the daily shows.

The Great Barrier Reef is truly one of the great wonders of the natural world. This flourishing living reef was formed millions of years ago and is now home to hundreds of different types of colourful fish and coral.

Join your air-conditioned luxury catamaran for a scenic transfer to the Knuckle Reef pontoon. You will have approximately three hours to indulge in a variety of activities at the reef. The submerged paradise can be explored during a ride in the semi-submersible or from the pontoon’s underwater viewing chamber - these options allow you to spot the tropical fish and intricate coral gardens without getting wet. For those wishing to get closer to the world’s richest marine habitat there will be plenty of time to swim and snorkel or simply relax on the shaded sun-deck and admire the views.

During your visit, you’ll enjoy a buffet luncheon accompanied by tea or coffee.


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 catamaran. The fare includes a fee which goes towards the management and protection of the reef. There are approximately ten steps to access the catamaran, semi-submersible and viewing chamber. Please bring a towel, sunscreen and swimwear. Do not carry valuables as there are no lockers available. There is a no smoking policy on the catamaran and reef pontoon. The tour operates in all weather and cancellation is at the discretion of the Harbour Master. Those prone to seasickness should take the necessary precautions. Independent suppliers at the pontoon offer watersports such as scuba and guided snorkel tours, these are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard and are payable direct. Qualified scuba divers require proof of certification. Please remember to carry a credit card or local currency for any additional purchases.

Enjoy a Shanghai-style dinner at a local restaurant, before joining the Shanghai Acrobatic Troup for a breath-taking performance. The troupe was founded almost half a century ago and is renowned in international circus acrobatic circles. In an exuberant 1½ hour long performance that combines breathtaking acrobatics, martial arts, enchanting music, and spectacular lighting and set design, the award-winning troupe captures a celebration of ancient and modern Chinese culture. The 40-member company includes phenomenal gymnasts, dancers and jugglers who focus their bodies and minds to work in perfect harmony. Following the show, enjoy a drive along the Bund, to see the city’s glittering night lights.

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. The dress code for the evening is smart casual.

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.