St Petersburg and Baltic Explorer - 14 nights, July 2013

After a short transfer, arrive at Senate Square, the historical centre of Helsinki. From here, stroll past formidable buildings that make a strong impression on the Helsinki skyline, such as the Railway Station, Sanoma Building, the Finlandia Congress Hall and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

A stop will be made at a waterfront café for some light refreshments.

Continue your walk up to Toolo residential area and through Hesperia Park. Then head to The Rock Church, a unique church blasted into the solid rock. The walking part of the tour will conclude at the Rock Church, where a coach will await to return you to the ship.

Alternatively, you may choose to remain in the city for further independent exploration and shopping. If taking this option, you will be responsible for your own return to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a total of 2½ hours of walking over mainly paved and gravel surfaces. You are advised that the Rock Church may close without prior notice. The order of sites may vary.

This panoramic tour of St Petersburg will show you many of the interesting and historical sites of the city. The beautifully decorated St Isaac's Cathedral is well known for its magnificent, central golden dome, which dominates the city skyline. History surrounds the Hermitage and Palace Square, once the centre of Russian power with the Czar's residence, state offices and Alexander Column.

The blank shot that signalled the start of the Russian Revolution was fired from the Cruiser Aurora, which is now berthed as a museum on the north bank of the Neva.

The uniquely named Church of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood sits on an equally unique site, the place where Alexander II was assassinated. The striking multi-coloured onion domes, representative of the intricate pseudo-Russian style of architecture, create a memorable picture.

There will be a chance to browse for a variety of Russian craft items and enjoy some refreshments during a shopping stop.


This excursion operates by coach. There is minimal walking on this tour. Local currency is the Rouble, however the gift shop accepts credit cards and, unofficially, US dollars and Euros. Photograph stops are programmed, time and traffic permitting.

St Petersburg is home to some of the most stunning architecture in Russia, yet some of it remains a mystery to many, keep your eyes peeled as your tour begins with a panoramic drive through the city.

Yelagin Palace is one of the lesser know Palaces and was the home of Maria Fydorovna, the mother of Alexander I. It was designed by a young Carlo Rossi who later went on to become the undisputed master of neo-classicism in the city. Yelagin Palace has an intimate, cozy feeling and is completely accessible with all display rooms located on the ground floor. Join your guide as you walk through rooms including Empress’s Dressing Room, the exquisitely painted Porcelain Study and the Blue Parlour with its silk damask wallpaper. You’ll have some free time to enjoy a walk in the peaceful grounds where swans, geese and ducks can often be found down by the pond.

Make your way to the rear of the Palace and discover the Glass Museum located in the Orangery. This small but fascinating museum is divided into 2 sections showcasing precious glassware versus modern works of the glassmaker which will be presented by your guide.

Hidden Gems is a quieter, more tranquil option, perfect for anyone looking for a leisurely outing.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This excursion involves approximately two hours of walking over flat ground. There are approximately 20 steps in the Palace to the restrooms and 16 steps up to the terrace.

Sit back, relax and enjoy a scenic transfer passing Market Square, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, the Presidential Palace and the Finnish Ice Breaker fleet, docked for the summer.

Upon arrival at the kayak centre you'll receive a brief induction on basic kayaking techniques before you paddle off to explore the unique archipelago. With your knowledgeable guide, you'll discover the numerous islands and diverse birdlife, whilst admiring the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the Finnish archipelago.

Stretch your legs and tuck into a picnic snack on one of the islands, before heading back to the kayak base.


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 minibus and kayak. Participants should be competent swimmers and physically fit. There is a weight restriction of 120kg. Participants must be at least ten years of age and children under 14 years must ride in a double kayak with an adult. Double kayaks may be available on request.The kayaking will take approximately 2¼ hours. Passengers are advised to wear sports clothing with trainers or sandals, jeans are not recommended. The tour will operate in wet weather conditions, and a basic rain jacket will be provided, you may wish to bring additional wet weather clothing. Please bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a change of clothing.

Situated on the south coast, Kristiansand hosts charming small towns and a coastline dotted with tiny rocky islands and skerries. Boarding your boat at the pier, you’ll sail along the protected Blindleia shoreline, past picturesque white-painted houses in sheltered inlets — all set against a backdrop of lush green forests and rugged mountains.

Arriving at Tømmerstø, a maritime centre in a pretty setting, you’ll switch to a coach for a panoramic drive through scenic landscapes of green fields, hills and coves to Lillesand.

Lillesand is a lovely little town on the waterfront which is famous for its summer floral displays. There will be free time to stroll through the narrow streets, browse the shops and galleries or sit back in a café and enjoy the views of the old harbour and the pretty summer houses.



This excursion will operate by coach, boat and on foot. There are a few steps to board the boat. The public address system on the boat is not very audible on the open decks. There is a bar on board, should you wish to purchase refreshments. There is approximately 30 minutes of free time in Lillesand. This tour involves several tunnels.

Discover the daily struggles and affect that WWII had on Kristiansand during a visit to Stiftelsen Arkivet and the Kristiansand Cannon Museum.

Stiftelsen Arkivet was a former Gestapo headquarters, known as the country's most notorious place for physical/psychological violence and torture - gaining it the reputation as the ‘House of Horror’. The Gestapo prison cells and torture chambers in the basement have been recreated as they existed during WWII. The events which took place in the basement are illustrated with the help of full-sized exhibits and mannequins. Arkivet provides a chilling and heart rending glimpse into some of the horrendous conditions and atmosphere that the prisoners endured during the German Occupation.

The Kristiansand Cannon Museum (The Vara Battery) is an important part of Norwegian military history. The main attraction is a large battery canon built by the Germans to defend the coastline during WWII. It is the only complete surviving 380mm calibre Kruppcannon and at almost 66 foot in length, weighing 337 tons and a firing range of 34 miles (the range extends half way to Denmark) - it is one of the largest ever built. The large gun casement surrounding the cannon contains bunkers with interesting exhibits displaying artillery, uniforms and materials from WWII.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The Gestapo headquarters are located down several flights of stairs, however there is a lift available. There is uneven terrain at the Cannon Museum and an incline to reach the top of the cannon and one of the emplacements.

The Ericsson Globe Arena, resembling a giant golf ball, is the largest spherical building in the world. An exhilarating two minute glass gondola ride will take you to the top of the Globe. Make sure you remember your camera as when you reach 426 feet above sea level, the ‘bubble’ will make a brief stop for you to admire the magnificent views over the city and take some panoramic photographs.

Once back on firm ground enjoy a panoramic tour of the City’s main sights. Admire the enchanting medieval Old Town, Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace overlooking Stockholm’s inner harbour. You’ll also pass by the island of Djurgården, regarded as Stockholm’s amusement and recreation centre with great parklands, beautiful gardens and numerous museums including the world famous Vasa Museum. On the island of Kungsholmen, enjoy impressive views of City Hall, renowned for its architecture, mosaics and for being the site of the annual Nobel Prize Banquet.

This excursion operates by coach. This tour has very little walking included however guests must be able to negotiate the steps of the coach and 30 steps at the entrance to the SkyView.

Vaxholm, often referred to as the ‘Pearl in the Archipelago’, is part of a wonderful living archipelago community with approximately 60 islands and just over 10,000 inhabitants. Your guide will take you on a walk through this charming summer town, with its old buildings, beautiful ornate carvings and big verandas. The view from the port and across the water to the imposing Fortress is magnificent.

Then, join the car ferry for a short journey to the island of Rindö, a holiday paradise built around a defense station, the Oscar Fredriksborg Fortress. A few minutes by coach will take you across the island to the next ferry for a trip to Värmdö, located east of Stockholm.

At Siggesta Gård, a traditional Swedish luncheon will be served in the renovated barn dating from the latter part of the 19th century. Afterwards, continue to the historic town of Gustavsberg, famous for its porcelain production. A visit is included to the treasure trove of porcelain in the Porcelain Museum. Among the pieces, you can find dinner services decorated with elephant imagery and lotus edgings from the 1830’s, flowing blue designs from the 1850’s, majolica art pieces, grand vases and much more.

During some free time you can take a walk around the harbour with its many leisure boats or do some shopping.

This excursion will depart by coach and ferry. The terrain on this tour is relatively flat with some uphill walking and cobblestoned streets in Vaxholm. At Siggesta the terrain is flat.

For the returning visitor or a serious art lover, the Hermitage Depositary is a must. St Petersburg State Hermitage presents a unique project and a world first, by opening the Restoration and Storage Centre to visitors. This tour unveils the treasures of the Hermitage Museum….and more.

In the company of a knowledgeable guide, you'll enjoy a special early opening at the Hermitage Museum, to get ahead of the crowds. One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, the Hermitage was founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great. Its collections, of which only a small portion are permanently on display, comprise of nearly three million items, including the largest collection of paintings in the world. Perhaps only the British Museum and the Louvre can rival the Hermitage in scale and importance. (Routes around the Hermitage are determined by museum curators therefore we cannot guarantee which works of art will be seen on the day)

Next, you'll embark on a journey north to Staraya Derevnya, the 'Old Village' district, where a traditional Russian luncheon will be served at the Hermitage Depositary Café. A highlight of your tour is a visit to the modern Restoration and Storage Centre of the Hermitage. Housed in a closed, high-security storage facility, these chambers hold a wealth of priceless treasures ranging from world-class works of art, to royal carriages, original palace furniture and other fascinating items.

Don't miss this opportunity to join a small group of fellow guests to visit the Hermitage and view some of its collections that have long been hidden from the eyes of the general public.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 4½ hours of walking, including numerous steps. Palace Square is cobbled and uneven in places. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Sit back and relax on a scenic drive through Copenhagen, en route, enjoy a brief photo stop at Copenhagen’s most famous resident, the Little Mermaid. During your panoramic drive you’ll pass by the Church of our Saviour, with its spectacular winding staircase on the spire, the lively waterfront of Nyhavn, the Old Stock Exchange and Christiansborg Castle, where Danish Parliament sits. Enjoy a brief photo stop at Amalienborg Palace, the Royal residence.

Upon arrival at the Carlsberg Brewery, discover the history of Carlsberg, its brewing techniques and sample some of “probably the best lager in the world”. During your visit indulge in a traditional Danish lunch plate.

Then it’s time to head out of town, across the bridge to the island of Amager. At the very end of the island is the picturesque village of Dragør. With your guide, stroll along the charming harbour front and through the narrow streets to admire the traditional yellow painted houses with red roofs.

Returning to the hustle and bustle of city life, you’ll change your mode of transport and hop aboard a canal boat for a leisurely cruise along Christianshavn, before returning to your ship.


This excursion will operate by coach, canal boat and on foot. The order of highlights may vary. There is approximately two hours of walking included throughout the day, over flat terrain.

Visit one of the largest open-air museums in Norway - Vest-Agder. Approximately 30 houses have been re-erected here and the area divided into four sections, giving you an impression of the various districts. Your tour will concentrate on the various farmhouses from the Setesdal region, as well as ‘Bygaden’ – the town street – where you will find 11 houses, which have been moved from the town centre. The next stop is Søgne, where you will take a stroll through Høllen, the former fishermen’s street.

Part of your tour will take you on a panoramic drive around Kristiansand. Take in the sights from the comfort of your coach, including the typical Norwegian architecture, charming wooden houses as well as the new residential areas, the small harbour and the Christiansholm Fortress. Pass by one of the oldest Olav churches in Norway, commemorating Norway’s patron saint. The return journey to Kristiansand will be by the coastal road, passing idyllic summer cottages along the way.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves approximately 45 minutes of walking. There are some steps and thresholds at the entrance to the houses at the open-air museum. This tour involves several tunnels.

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 five guests.
Situated in the town of Tsarskoye Selo, the grand blue Catherine Palace was named in honour of Peter the Great’s wife, Catherine. The Palace was built in the mid 18th century during the reigns of Elizabeth and Catherine II, the Baroque façade is nearly 1,000 feet long with decorative white and gold ornaments, and the grounds comprise of some 1,482 acres of manicured gardens and parklands. You’ll visit various rooms of the Palace’s sumptuous interior and glimpse part of the vast gardens.

One of the many highlights will be the Amber Room with its walls decorated with real amber of different hues. The long classical gallery of heroic Roman and Greek busts that run alongside the exterior of the Palace was designed as a covered walkway for Catherine the Great by the Scottish architect, Charles Cameron.



Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only 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. You may be expected to queue to gain entrance to Palaces in all weather.

Catherine Palace - The Palace is expected to be crowded. Protective overshoes are provided for inside Catherine Palace, which can make the floors slippery and care should be taken. Flash photos are not permitted inside and photography is prohibited in the Amber Room. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside.

Try something unique to Stockholm - a guided walk conducted along the roofs of the city! Buckle up in your safety harness and take your first steps along the narrow rooftop path. Admire the fantastic views and the fascinating stories that your guide will narrate.

Your walking tour begins with a ride in a lift to the top floor and then attic steps to the roof of the Old Parliament building, 43 metres up. Admire the most breathtaking 360 degree views over Stockholm, including the historic old town of Gamla Stan and across 8 of the 14 islands on which the city was built. As you walk in single file along the path you are in touching distance from the spire of Riddarholmen Church, built by the Franciscan monks and the final resting place of most Swedish Kings.

Back on terra firma, you’ll continue your adventure to the Old Town. Have your camera at the ready to capture the historic elegance of the exterior of the dominating Royal Palace. As you stroll along the narrow cobbled streets you’ll pass by a number of small boutiques from handicraft workshops, art galleries to antique shops. In the heart of the old town is the Great Square, Stortorget, and the former Stock Exchange, now the home of the Swedish Academy which meets annually to decide the laureate of the Nobel Prize for Literature.

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.

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 on foot. Participants must be over 18 years of age, minimum height of 150 cm and weigh no more than 18 stone. The tour is not recommended to those who have a history of cardiovascular problems, fear of heights or a tendency to faint. It is strictly prohibited to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The tour is recommended only for those in good physical condition. Flat, enclosed walking shoes are recommended.

A panoramic tour of the city will take you past Copenhagen’s most notable landmarks. Glimpse the famous Tivoli Gardens, the new Carlsberg Glyptotek, the Town Hall and Rosenborg and Christiansborg Palace. Copenhagen's famous Gefion Fountain, set amidst the parkland of the Kastel, depicts the Nordic legend of the Goddess Gefion. The winter residence of the royal family, Amalienborg Palace is situated on one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Nyhavn is the colourful and lively waterfront district, once a favourite haunt of sailors. Nowadays, the canal district is lined with 500-year-old gabled houses, pavement cafés and bars.

On the Island of Amager, you’ll visit the charming village of Dragor, one of the best preserved in Denmark. Dragor was an international marketplace for Hanseatic merchants who came here every year to buy their herrings.

A coffee stop will be made and includes a typical Danish pastry.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The tour involves approximately one hour of walking, over cobbled streets.

Frederiksborg Castle is located north of Copenhagen and considered by many to be the most beautiful Castle in Denmark. A guided tour will take you into impressive interior rooms and to the spectacular Neptune Fountain in the main courtyard.

Not far from Frederiksborg you will find Fredensborg Castle - the Queens Summer residence, this impressive palace is surrounded by the idyllic Esrum Lake, where you will have time to stretch your legs and take a photograph of this impressive palace.

A scenic drive along the Esrum Lake, one of the largest in Denmark leads to Havreholm Castle. The Castle is nestled between farmland, forests and lakes. The Castle, which now serves as a restaurant, was built in 1872 by the merchant Valdemar Culmsee – who owned a large paper industry which has been in their family for several generations. A traditional Danish pastry and coffee will be served in one of the magnificent drawing rooms decorated beautifully for Christmas.

Located at the narrowest point between Denmark and Sweden, Elsinore is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kronborg Castle, famously known as Hamlet’s Castle. Kronborg was built to demonstrate Denmark’s power and prosperity and is visible in the distance as you head towards the coastal road for a scenic drive back to Copenhagen.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour includes a visit to Frederiksborg Castle and exterior views of Hamlet’s Castle and Fredensborg. This tour involves approximately two hours of walking including several steps.