Dubai to Southampton - 20 nights, April 2014

Visit the highlights of Cairo at a more leisurely pace.

Your day will begin with a scenic drive alongside the Suez Canal and the desert road to Cairo. The road is dotted with 'dwelling places’; however none are suitably equipped with comfort facilities, so the journey will be non-stop.

Step back thousands of years as you view some of the most mysterious structures on earth, the Pyramids of Giza. You will be driven to an elevated site that provides a magnificent panoramic view of the three largest pyramids. The mightiest and most massive, the Great Pyramid of Cheops, is the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. Walk up close to either Chephren or Mycerinus Pyramid to truly appreciate their size and amazing construction.

The ravages of nature and man have left the massive Sphinx battered, but unbowed. The lion’s body and head of a man rise from the vast desert sands near the pyramids as an incredible monument to the days of the pharaohs.

Sit back and reflect on the morning as you enjoy refreshments of a glass of wine or beer and a buffet luncheon in one of Cairo’s leading hotels.

A short stop will be made at a Papyrus Institute, where the art of paper making from reeds, discovered by the Ancient Egyptians, will be demonstrated for you.

Note: Please refer to the important information section relating to this port, which can be found in the brochure. This tour does not include a visit to the Cairo Museum.

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).

Discover the history and natural beauty of the New Forest with its famous ponies, quaint villages and picturesque landscapes.

A short drive out of Southampton will bring you to the New Forest. The New Forest, originally created by William the Conqueror for deer hunting, is a mixture of open grazing, woodland and heath. The Forest has remained almost untouched for 1,000 years and is famous for its tiny villages with traditional thatched cottages and wild ponies which roam free on the land. Today it is managed by the Forestry Commission and in 2004 was designated a National Park.

Your scenic drive will take you through the heart of the New Forest, with its famous New Forest ponies, past a variety of beautiful landscapes to three of its prettiest villages; Hythe, Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

The historic marina village of Hythe is located alongside Southampton Water and on a clear day you can see across to where your cruise ship is berthed. The village also boasts the world’s oldest operating pier train.

The picturesque village of Beaulieu dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its Abbey, Motor Museum and Palace Manor House. Admire the lovely views across Beaulieu River as you pass through this quaint village.

The New Forest capital, Lyndhurst is a bustling village containing tea rooms, pubs, souvenir shops, local stores and ice cream vendors. You will have the chance to visit the New Forest Visitor Centre to view its exhibits, browse the local shops or relax in one of the tea rooms.

Note: The sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with a photograph stop at Hythe. There will be approximately 45 minutes free time in Lyndhurst. There is a small charge to visit the exhibits in the New Forest Visitor Centre.

Spend an afternoon and a night in the desert soaking up the extraordinary atmosphere under the stars.

Your exciting journey starts across the desert taking in the sights during a thrilling dune drive to stop at a camel farm.

Continue across the desert and watch the beautiful sunset before reaching the campsite where you will have the opportunity to participate in activities such as camel riding, sand boarding and try out a henna design on your hands or feet.

Having worked up an appetite, sit down to a delicious barbeque dinner, followed by a chance to try out a shisha - the famous Arabic water pipe. The evening entertainment includes a belly dancer performing her show around the campfire by starlight. Sleep in the desert beneath the star studded sky in tents enjoying the tranquility of the unusual surroundings.

A light breakfast will be served before your return to the ship.

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Guests should bring towels, toiletries, insect repellent and a change of clothes, as well as warmer clothing for evening time. Sleeping bags and mattresses will be provided and tents sleep up to two guests. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Children under 12 may not participate. Optional camp activities include camel riding and sand boarding, both of which require some degree of physical exertion. Sturdy walking shoes or trainers are recommended for those guests choosing to sandboard. After 11.30pm please respect the silence of the desert. The camp offers one shower each for men and women and toilets are functional but basic.

Experience ‘Atlantis, The Palm’, Dubai’s most spectacular hotel development on Palm Jumeirah.

Located on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah, a fully reclaimed island off the coast of Dubai and self-declared as the ‘8th wonder of the world’, Atlantis is truly a destination not to be missed. On arrival at this stunning hotel, begin your unique experience at The Lost Chambers, a labyrinth that will immerse you in an exotic array of sea creatures, mystical antiquities and ancient ruins. Explore 21 fresh water exhibits highlighting sealife from around the globe, as well as the Ambassador Lagoon, containing 65,000 fish and aquatic species in a 3 million gallon chamber; one of the largest in the world.

Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing buffet lunch in Kaleidoscope, one of Atlantis’ luxurious restaurants, offering a selection of food from around the world.

Note: The dress code is ‘casual’ and shorts are not permitted.

Get to know the historic city of Aqaba, and travel out to the stunning desert landscape of Wadi Rum for a Bedouin style luncheon.

Visit the Aqaba Museum and Fort, built in the Mamluk era, the permanent collection here includes ceramics showing both Egyptian and Chinese influences. In the heart of the city you will find the ruins of the old city of Ayla, as well as mosques, churches and the city walls.

A little over an hour’s drive from Aqaba lies a vast, timeless and hauntingly beautiful valley, called Wadi Rum, the largest and most magnificent of Jordan’s desert landscapes. In this sublime place, the uniquely shaped massive mountains raise out of the rose-red desert sand. Geologists think that this protected nature reserve resulted from a great crack on the surface of the earth caused by an enormous upheaval. Some of the ridges are a thousand feet high and are topped with domes worn smooth by the desert winds, the Wadi Rum area has been inhabited since prehistoric periods. It was here that T E Lawrence lived and helped the Arabs. Wadi Rum was the backdrop for the film ‘Lawrence of Arabia’.

Journey into a red landscape of soaring peaks and low valleys. Reaching the Captain’s Desert Camp you will enjoy a warm traditional welcome. Arabian tea and local delicacies are followed by luncheon in a huge Bedouin tent furnished with Bedouin carpets.

Note: There is minimal walking on this tour. For the afternoon departure the tour will operate in reverse order with luncheon served before the city tour, a shopping stop may be included if time permits.

Wonders await on this tour, which includes the Necropolis of Sakkara, the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

From Suez, head for Africa’s largest city, the teeming metropolis of Cairo. At a deluxe hotel near the great Pyramids of Giza a delicious buffet breakfast will be served, before you continue to Egypt’s first capital, Memphis, with its ancient cemetery of Sakkara.

At Sakkara, the world’s first monumental stone building, the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, was built almost 5,000 years ago. After visiting the complex continue to one of the mastabas (funerary chambers) built nearby.

Returning to Cairo, a buffet luncheon will be served at a leading five star hotel. The tour then continues to the Giza Plateau where the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramids of Giza still stands. A unique view of the three Pyramids from the Western Plateau affords great opportunities for photographs. Experience the stunning Pyramid of Chephren up close and enjoy time to explore the site on your own. Continue down the valley to visit the guardian of this mortuary complex, the mysterious Sphinx, watching the passage of time.

A final stop at the Papyrus Institute will introduce you to the process of paper making from reeds, an art discovered by the Ancient Egyptians. You will have a short time to purchase local handicrafts and papyrus from a selected bazaar.

Note: Please refer to the important information section relating to this port, which can be found in the brochure. This tour does not include a visit to the Cairo Museum. Flash photography is not permitted inside the mastabas.

Discover the beauty of the former Royal Palace, also referred as the ‘Versailles of Italy’.

Enjoy a short drive through the city of Naples and on to the provincial centre of Campania, to visit the Royal Palace of Caserta.

This architectural masterpiece was designed by Luigi Vanvitelli in the 18th century, with 1,200 rooms each connected by 34 staircases and illuminated by 1,970 windows. A guided tour of the Palace will show you its beauty, the grand staircases and vaulted frescoed ceilings.

Afterwards, you will be transferred by shuttle for a visit to the Palace park, which begins from the back façade of the Palace, flanking a long alley with artificial fountains and cascades. The park is a typical example of the baroque extension of formal vistas and was inspired by the park of Versailles. As you stroll through the grounds, admire the marble statues and enjoy the calming sound of the fountains’ cascading water.

The short shuttle ride will then take you to your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Note: This tour involves around one hour of walking, which includes uneven ground and steps. In addition, there is a 15 minute walk to and from the coach park to the Palace. Depending on the number of visitors, guests may experience a wait for the shuttle bus to the Palace park. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. This tour does not operate on a Tuesday as the Royal Palace is closed.

The crescent-shaped, palm-fringed Na’ama Bay has rightfully claimed the title of ‘best exotic destination in Egypt’.

Na’ama Bay has become a leading tourist resort, and is often referred to as the ‘capital of the Egyptian Riviera’. Enjoy a day relaxing and using the facilities of a deluxe hotel beach resort. The trip includes return transportation, admission and use of the swimming pool and private beach.

During your stay, take an inclusive hour-long glass-bottom boat trip and admire the amazing underwater world beneath you. Unique and wonderful corals of all shapes and sizes, as well as a multitude of rainbow-coloured schools of fish, present a panorama of unsurpassed beauty.

Enjoy a selection of dishes from the luncheon buffet, including refreshment of glass of wine or beer, mineral water, tea or coffee.

Note: There are independent suppliers on the beach that may offer water sports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard. Sun beds, umbrellas, changing room facilities and towels are included (subject to space availability around the pool). To join the glass-bottom boat there is a walk of 50 feet along a floating pontoon. There are no hand rails on the pontoon and the buoyancy changes with the slightest movement of the water. It is best to walk in the middle of it looking straight ahead, not down, thus avoiding losing your balance and falling in the water which at its deepest is shoulder high. Please remember to take swimwear, a hat and sun block. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Experience Dubai by seaplane and see the amazing buildings and highlights from a totally unique angle.

Take a scenic 40 minute seaplane flight for a bird’s eye view of the extensive new developments in the mega-polis of Dubai. See such highlights as the iconic Burj Al Arab as well as Palm Jumeirah, one of the 3 largest man-made islands in the world and self-declared as the '8th wonder of the world'.

Take the opportunity to grasp the full symbolism of another astonishing project, a cluster of islands reclaimed along Dubai’s coast, collectively known as ‘The World’ islands. Fly over Dubai Marina, the world’s largest man-made marina then photograph Burj Khalifa, which at 2600 feet is presently the tallest structure in the world. Fly over scenic Jumeirah Beach and the bustling Sheikh Zayed Road then return to port.

Note: The running of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Seat belts must be kept fastened at all times during the flight. All current cabin baggage rules and restrictions that apply for commercial flights also apply for this tour. Guests are required to carry clear passport copies on this tour due to security requirements of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.

See the amazing sights and structures of Dubai from the top of the world’s tallest building.

Drive along the picturesque Jumeirah area, making a photograph stop at the famed Burj Al Arab, the iconic sail-shaped hotel. Palm Jumeirah is the first in a trilogy of three Palm tree-shaped islands reclaimed off the coast of Dubai, drive onto the ‘trunk’ raod for a closer inspection of its villa encrusted fronds and see the jewel in its crown, Atlantis, The Palm from a distance. Continue along to Dubai Marina and the sky scraping condominiums of Jumeirah Beach Residence and see how the desert land has transformed into a vibrant community in a matter of years.

Continue onto Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s new business district, for a look at some of the stunning architectural marvels. Visit the city’s `Mall of Emirates´ where a refreshment stop is made at Ski Dubai, the region’s only indoor ski dome offering fresh real snow all year round.

Reach the downtown Burj Dubai district for to visit Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Enter the complex and board a high-speed lift which ascends to the observation deck at 10 metres per second. As the doors open on level 124, floor-to-ceiling glass walls provide breath-taking 360-degree views of the city, desert and ocean sprawled beneath.

Note: There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour over mostly paved surfaces with some inclines and a motorised walkway.

Enjoy a visit to the magnificent Royal residence of Windsor Castle followed by free time to explore the historic town of Windsor.

Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, is one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history and dates back to the time of William the Conqueror.

Enjoy an audio tour around the opulent rooms of the Castle including the splendid State Apartments and grand St Georges Hall where the Queen entertains visiting heads of states. The rooms are furnished with some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Reubens and Gainsborough. You will be able to admire the world famous Queen Mary's Dolls' House, which took three years to complete and involved 1,500 craftsmen, artists and authors. The house has electric lighting, hot and cold running water and even flushing lavatories.

One of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England can be found in St George's Chapel. The chapel contains the tombs of ten sovereigns, including Charles I, Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour.

After visiting the Castle, there will be around one hour of free time to explore the town of Windsor with its Georgian shops, houses and inns.

Note: The transfer time to Windsor is 1½ hours. There is a ½ mile walk from the car park to the Castle entrance and two hours walking within the Castle. If the Royal Family is in residence some of the state rooms will be unavailable. St George’s Chapel is closed on Sundays. Queues may be experienced due to the strict security procedures. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Enjoy an evening of eating, dancing and shopping on this evening tour of the souks.

Dubai is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, communities and commerce and this is an ideal opportunity to view another side to the city that never sleeps.

Drive past the picturesque creek en route to two of the city’s oldest souks at the twin city of Deira. Travel via an underwater tunnel to visit the aromatic Spice Souk then stroll through to the most popular tourist landmark in Dubai, the Gold Souk.

After the souk visits, continue onto one of the most popular Lebanese restaurants in the city and experience the local flavours with dinner and entertainment. Enjoy the restaurant’s resident band and singer as they perform popular Arabic numbers and the exotic belly dancer whose sinuous moves may send your head spinning.

Note: There is approximately 45 minutes of intermittent walking over mostly flat and paved surfaces. Guests wishing to stay later at the restaurant for late night entertainment are welcome to stay, but will be responsible for making their own way back to the ship. Arabic restaurants allow smoking indoors. During dinner food will be served course by course, family-style with two or more guests sharing a course from a common serving bowl or plate.

Enjoy the highlights of Palma and enjoy a real Flamenco show whilst tasting some delicious tapas.

Here’s an exciting opportunity to watch a live Flamenco show. Expect energy, passion and emotion - these dancers mean business!

Leaving the pier, you’ll travel across the promenade by coach to view the exterior of Palma’s Gothic style Cathedral and its Almudaina Palace.

Your guide will take you on foot into the labyrinth of narrow streets in the beautiful Old Town to admire the Palaces that are nowadays home to Spain’s more affluent families.

Next, you’ll travel to La Granja, a historical Manor house known since Roman times for it natural spring. Savour a typical tapas luncheon with wine and Sangria, whilst enjoying a flamboyant Flamenco show of Spanish ballet with hints of modern music including the Spanish guitar and drum box.

Note: This tour includes one hour of walking and at some points during the tour is over uneven ground and cobblestones so comfortable, flat shoes are recommended.

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.

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