Brisbane to Hong Kong - 25 nights, March 2014

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.

Your experience will begin with a visit to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. A brief tour of the facilities will provide a behind the scenes insight into the work of a dedicated rescue team who collect sick, injured and orphaned koalas and other native wildlife.

Nearby to the hospital is Australia Zoo which was established by the late ‘Crocodile Hunter’, Steve Irwin and is still run by his enthusiastic family. It is one of Australia’s leading environmental organisations, committed to the preservation of Australian wildlife and their habitat. You will have around three hours to explore the many enclosures at your own leisure. Discover the large numbers of native animals including freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, kangaroos, elephants, tigers and wombats. You will have the chance to meet the cuddly koalas, view majestic birds of prey and feed kangaroos, elephants or camels (food at your own expense).

The Zoo’s latest addition is their totally wild Africa exhibit. The open-plains are home to giraffe, zebra and rhinos. You’ll have the opportunity to watch these fascinating animals from onboard the special Africa Safari Shuttle. There will also be daily animal presentations. The highlight is the live crocodile show, where the crocodiles launch a strike from the water’s edge in the purpose built ‘Crocoseum’. A truly unforgettable day out.


This excursion will operate by coach. Please check on arrival at the zoo for details of the crocodile show, animal talks, feeding times and presentation schedules. The tour is unguided therefore walking is at guests' own discretion. The terrain is mostly flat pavement and there is a trolley train which runs continuously around the zoo. Guests with limited mobility can rent a motorized scooter for AUD$25 (payable on arrival). The zoo is fully wheelchair accessible.

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 two 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.

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.

Board a traditionally-styled Chinese Junk and cruise out to the Eastern Harbour of Hong Kong, passing the shimmering waterfronts of Central and the main banking and commercial area. See the pristine skyscrapers, lit up against the night sky, including the Bank of China, the HSBC headquarters and the International Finance Centre, the tallest building in Hong Kong.

The famous world of ‘Suzy Wong’ has now evolved into a prominent commercial district, adorned with giant neon signs along the rooftops and harbour-front buildings. During your cruise, you’ll see many sights of Kowloon’s bustling harbours.

Enjoy unlimited refreshments from the bar as you watch the sights and city lights pass by and witness the incredible Symphony of Lights Show.


This excursion will operate by junk and on foot. Guests are advised that there will be a walk of around 10-15 minutes to reach the junk if the ship is berthed at Ocean Terminal, therefore the duration of the tour may vary. Guests must be able to access a few steps onto and off the boat. Some sea swells may be experienced within the harbour and delays may be encountered due to water traffic. There is no meal or snacks served on the boat so guests are advised to have dinner before leaving on this tour.

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.

Your first stop will be at the Sam Tung Uk Museum which provides an authentic and fascinating insight into the lifestyles of villagers in the New Territories before modern development completely transformed this once entirely rural area.

The next visit is to Chuk Lam Sim Yuen (Bamboo Forest Monastery) which is one of the most impressive temple complexes in Hong Kong. The temple was completed in 1932 when, legend has it, Tou Tei, the earth god, told an elderly monk to build it. The temple contains three of the largest golden Buddhas in the territory.

An unexpected delight in this district is the Wishing Tree outside the Tin Hau Temple in Lam Tsuen. An ancient banyan, it is festooned with red and gold incense papers and other offerings thrown into its branches by the faithful - and the hopeful. Adjoining trees, thought to be equally lucky also bear their share of colourful wishing papers. According to tradition, at Chinese New Year, people pray for year-long peace by scribbling their dreams on slips of red paper tied to an orange with string. They then toss them into the air and if the lucky paper charm catches on the tree, it is said that the wish will be granted.

The Man Mo Temple is a dedicated temple to the gods Man (Literature) and Mo (Martial Arts). It was built a century ago to serve as a centre of worship for the community. Also situated here is the Tai Po Market which sells all kinds of fresh products, dried herbs and seafood.

The fortified village of Tsang Tai UK was built in the mid-19th century as a stronghold for the Tsang Clan. The corner towers feature curved gables topped with tridents. The fortifications kept human threats at bay, while the 3 pronged spikes deterred evil spirits.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour.

The Gold Coast is a major tourist destination with its sunny subtropical climate, surfing beaches, canal and waterway systems, its high-rise dominated skyline and rainforest hinterland.

You will have approximately five hours at your leisure to discover the Gold Coast district of Surfers Paradise. Browse through the many shops and designer arcades, enjoy a luncheon of Aussie fish and chips or sit in one of the many chic beachside restaurants. Soak up the sun's rays as you relax on the famous dazzling beach and enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea.

After a day of discovering the magic of the Gold Coast the coach will be waiting to bring you back to the ship.


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 coach. The journey to the Gold Coast takes approximately 1½ hours. Walking is at guests’ own discretion. The transfer service to and from the ship is included but any other costs will be at guests’ own expense. Please remember to bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen and local currency. Guests who wish to swim must stay within the flagged area. Independent suppliers on the beach may offer watersports, these are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard and are payable direct.

Board your River Cruiser for a relaxing cruise along the sunny shores and canals of the Gold Coast.

Enjoy refreshments of a delicious Devonshire tea as you pass the beautiful sites of the Gold Coast Waterway canal system and broadwater. You will see Marina Mirage, Seaworld and Palazzo Versace, Australia's only six star hotel. View some of the world's most beautiful high-rise apartments and the ever-changing Surfers Paradise skyline from the comfort of an air-conditioned canal cruiser.

On arrival at Surfers Paradise, there will be approximately 1½ hours of free time to enable you to discover the famous resort your own leisure. There is plenty to see and do, you may wish to browse through the many shops and designer arcades, take a dip in the refreshing sea or relax and soak up the sun at this premier beach location.


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 coach and motor-cruiser. There are a few steps to negotiate to board the canal boat and ten steps to access the upper deck. The cruise lasts approximately 1½ hours and is not exclusive to Cunard. The return journey by coach takes 1½ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility – there are many cafés and restaurants at Surfers Paradise. Guests are reminded to swim between the flags on the beach, to take swimwear, a towel and sunscreen. There are limited changing facilities available.

Your scenic drive will take you uphill to Victoria Peak for a photo stop of the famous concrete jungle, including the high rise buildings and the harbour. Victoria Peak is visited by millions of tourists and locals every year and offers unforgettable views.

Continue onto the beautiful Repulse Bay via the low block houses towards the southern side of Hong Kong Island. Sit back and relax in the comfort of the coach as you pass by views of the South China Sea and stunning beaches adorned with luxury apartments.

Return to Kowloon via the Western Tunnel and the highway to the New Territories and across the incredible Tsingma Bridge. A photograph stop will be made at Tung Chung town for the Ngong Ping 360 Skyrail before the return drive.


This excursion will operate by coach. This tour is designed for those who prefer no walking and the coaches will be filled to ensure that everyone has a window seat if they require one.

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 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.

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.