Mediterranean Adventures - 12 nights, October 2013

A maze of quaint cobbled streets, brightly painted houses, and overflowing flowerpots, Óbidos is picture perfect. In fact, so romantic is Óbidos, that in 1282 the entire town was given as a wedding present from King Dinis to his bride Isabel.

Encircled by medieval walls, Óbidos’ centrepiece is an imposing 12th century castle. This former fortress and royal palace was recently voted one of the ‘7 Wonders of Portugal.’ To help you get your bearings, you’ll embark on a short walking tour around some of the prettiest streets, passing the whitewashed church of Santa Maria.

Next, you’ll have free time to wander Óbidos at your own pace. Keen photographers are sure to love exploring the hidden corners, with each twist and turn revealing another photo opportunity.

For a spot of souvenir shopping, take a stroll along the town’s main street, Rua Direita. Here you’ll find an abundance of traditional shops selling all kinds of crafts and delicacies, from hand painted ‘azulejo’ tiles, to tasty local liqueurs. But perhaps you’d prefer to simply relax in one of the tiny street café’s, and soak up the charming atmosphere of this medieval town.

During your journey back to the ship, sit back and absorb the lovely views of the Portuguese countryside, before glimpsing the bustling city life of Lisbon’s main streets.


Awaiting tour info

The journey to Obidos is around 1¼ hours. This tour involves 2 hours of walking over flat, cobbled streets. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

A relaxing drive North will cross Gibraltar's unique runway to the border between this small colony and Spain. There will not be a stop here, but as you drive by there is a great opportunity to view this remarkable border and the Spanish mainland beyond.

Proceeding along the outskirts of town and passing the American War Memorial and the Trafalgar Cemetery, you will soon reach Europa Point. From this vantage point, admire the fine views of the coast of North Africa, twelve miles across the famous Straits of Gibraltar. From here, you can appreciate why this territory was, and continues to be, of such strategic importance to the British Navy.

Relax and enjoy refreshments at the renowned Rock Hotel. From this location overlooking a Genoese fishing village, you can admire the spectacular views to Spain and North Africa. Take in the scenery as you savour a delightful tea accompanied by a tempting selection of sandwiches, scones and cakes.


This excursion will operate by mini-coach.

A scenic drive from the port will take you along the coastal road to Cascais. This popular holiday resort is set in the picturesque bay of Cascais and is an ideal place to while away a few hours.

Upon arrival, the time is yours to do as you please. Wander along the streets, enjoy the views or browse in the local shops. Cascais offers plenty of cafés if you wish to purchase refreshments or luncheon.

After your visit, you will meet at the designated time and place to rejoin the coach for the return drive to the port.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This is an unguided transfer exclusive of refreshments, meals or entrance fees. Please note meeting points and return times as coaches cannot be held for latecomers. The travel time is around 45 minutes each way, with around 2-2½; hours of free time in Cascais. There is a slight incline of around 100 metres to negotiate to and from the coach parking area. The level of walking is at guests' discretion. Shops may be closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Euros are accepted for purchases.

Lisbon is the only European capital that is located nearby a rich and diverse bird and nature reserve. The Tagus Estuary is a wetland site of international importance and is specifically created to protect wintering, passage and the breeding populations of aquatic birds. The geography of the area also attracts a variety of non wetland birdlife.

The Tagus Estuary bird list includes more than 250 species that can be sighted. In the winter months you can spot up to 12,0000 waders at any one time and in the summer the Estuary is alive with breeding species. During migratory periods it is not unusual to observe at least 100 species in a day. The Estuary is abound with inter-tidal mud flats, salt pans, reed beds and cork oak woodlands which provide a wide biodiversity.

Your experienced Ornithologist guide has extensive knowledge of the birdlife of Iberia and the expertise to find those hard to find species.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour is not suitable for children. This tour involves walking over uneven and rough terrain which includes some steps. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Optics and field guides are included; however guests may take their own if preferred. Please dress suitably for bird watching and take a backpack and bottle of water. The drive to the River Tagus Estuary is around 20 minutes. The bird watching will last approximately 3½ hours.

There’s water action everywhere with 21 different attractions at Fantasy Island, including Torpedo Slides, Grand Rapids, Aquamania, Double Spiral, Foams, Kamakazes, Superslides and a children’s pool with a set of mini slides in the shape of different animals. Hurtle down the rapids before encountering an exhilarating splashdown - soak up the excitement and shoot into mid-air reaching mind blowing speeds. Feel the sensation as you slide up and down in a spinning giant tube, and hang on tight in your boat as you tumble down to a splash pond below.

To give you flexibility during your day, lunch has not been included in the fare and can be purchased from the variety of cafés within the Park.

With so much to do, you’re guaranteed to have a great time!


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 coach and on foot and is not guided, but will be escorted by a hostess. Sun-loungers and umbrellas are available for hire and are payable direct. Please ensure that you take adequate sun-protection with you. Guests are advised that, for safety reasons, t-shirts and inflatable armbands should not be worn whilst using the water slides. The journey to the Waterpark takes approximately 45 minutes.

After a pleasant scenic drive through the rural countryside, you will arrive at Requena, a very pretty, old walled town, which has a unique cave system situated in the old part of the town.

Your walking tour of the town will commence with a stroll through the cobblestoned streets of the old town quarter of ‘La Vila’. You will be taken inside one of the oldest caves in the region that was used as a shelter, wine cellar and as a silo. Inside the cave your guide will give a fascinating insight into the history of the caves.

Next it’s onto a local wine cellar, where your guide will explain about the wine production and the culture of wine and ‘Cava’. To complete your tour you will have the chance to taste a glass of ‘Cava’, and, if you wish, purchase the wine or ‘Cava’.



This excursion will operate coach and on foot. This tour involves a lot of walking over rough and uneven ground and many steep steps; therefore it is not considered for guests with walking difficulties. Guests are reminded to wear sensible footwear. The drive to Requena takes approximately 45 minutes.

Spend a full day in Alicante, doing the things that you like to do. Why not visit the Castle of Santa Barbara, stroll through the charming Old Quarter taking in the Town Hall and the Cathedral, or admire the quaint streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz (the Holy Cross Quarter).

Perhaps you would prefer to simply relax and watch the world go by as you sip a refreshing ‘horchata’ in the shade of the palms of the beautiful Esplanade of Spain or take a dip in the crystal blue Mediterranean sea. If shopping is your thing, head for the famous El Corte Inglés Department Store. You could even treat yourself to a lunch of delicious seafood paella, whilst enjoying the view over the yacht harbour. The day is yours to truly spend as you wish. The options are endless.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.: Your guide will give a commentary during your journey to Alicante and provide any information you may require to help you enjoy your day to the full. A map and information booklet will be provided to help you plan your time. Please note no meals or entrance fees are included. The drive to Alicante takes approximately 1¾ hours each way.

Valencia’s architecture ranges from ancient Roman works to Santiago Calatrava’s cutting edge City of Arts and Sciences. As you drive around on your panoramic tour, you’ll head towards the city centre, passing by the impressive City of Arts and Science. Built especially for leisure, this area is located in the old Turia river bed; a brief photo stop will be made.

In the heart of the city, la Plaza de la Reina, discover the historical centre, where the fascinating old monuments and buildings are located. You’ll drive past the Cathedral with the Miguelete Tower, the Lonja, declared Heritage of Mankind by the UNESCO, the Central Market and many more attractions.

Enjoy some free time to shop or have a coffee in one of the many local cafés before heading for a scenic drive along Valencia’s seafront promenade.



This excursion operates by coach and involves very little walking.

One of Barcelona's famous landmarks is the 600-year-old Catalan Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Hercules. View the exterior of this marvellous building as well as absorbing the other sights of the Gothic Quarter.

Your tour continues to the huge Catalunya Square - the main square of the city - before taking the Passeig de Gracia to the city's most unique attraction, the Church of Sagrada Familia (photograph stop only). Started in 1882 and still unfinished, this church with its profuse decoration is a sight that should not be missed.

Visit the Spanish Village at Montjuic, built for the 1929 Universal Exposition. Stroll through the Andalusian or Castilian streets in the 'Village', where free time will be given for you to browse independently and shop for souvenirs.

Leaving the Spanish Village, and time permitting, enjoy a panoramic view of the Olympic Ring surrounding the Olympic Stadium.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2 - 2 1/2 hours' total walking involved on this tour, including steps. Due to parking restrictions there is a 15 minute walk each way to the Sagrada Familia.

The fascinating Centre of Cartagena History is situated in the Tower of Homage, one of the few buildings that remain from the Castle of Conception. Here, up-to-date technology helps you to enjoy a relaxing ‘journey’ through the different civilisations. Enjoy panoramic views over the city and see the site of the Roman Theatre, discovered by chance in 1897.

Enter the Punic world in The Interpretation Centre of the Punic Wall, which protects the remains of the wall once used to defend Cartagena. An informative audio-visual presentation will highlight the Punic Wars from the viewpoint of one of the characters. A visit will be made to the 16th century crypt to see the now faint frescoes of Death, the Great Leveller, dancing on the Papal Crown.

The Roman period is well represented by two visits beneath the modern city. The Decumano will show you a tract on the main Roman thoroughfare, lined with the remains of the thermal baths and shops.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Please note three hours of walking is involved on this tour. Order of highlights may vary.

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.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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.

Sailing from the 2007 America's Cup port, the crew will rig the sails and your catamaran will glide peacefully along the Valencian bay.

Dependant on the wind direction you will either head north passing Malvarrosa Beach or South towards Saler Beach. Sit back, relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery or simply lay back on the nets and bask in the sun.

The catamaran will drop anchor for you to enjoy a dip in the inviting crystal-clear waters.

During your time on board a light luncheon will be served accompanied by wine and soft drinks.


BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, passengers 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.



This excursion will operate by coach and catamaran. Guests are advised that there is a 15 minute non guided transfer to the catamaran berth. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and a towel. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities.

The ‘Oceanografic’, which was designed by the Spanish architect Felix Candela, is Europe's biggest marine park, and home to 500 species of fish and other sea creatures from every ocean of the world. It's a fascinating underwater world where you can take a virtual stroll from one side of the Atlantic to the other through a shark tunnel or get a real feel for marine life in the touch pool. You will see everything from white whales and walruses to dolphin displays and an underwater auditorium with a Red Sea aquarium as its backdrop.

You’ll have approximately 3½ hours to enjoy and explore the park independently. A selection of restaurants, cafés and shops can also be found at the Park.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The pathways are flat and easily accessible. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and take sun protection.The time of the dolphin show is scheduled by the park on the day of the call therefore we cannot guarantee in advance that this may be seen, every effort will be made by the guide to enable you to see the performance.

Your tour begins with a drive towards the Olympic Village passing by the Citadel Park, the Arch of Triumph. Your informative guide will point out all the highlights and give explanations along the way.

You will arrive at the Olympic Village where you will be given some free time to enjoy the beautifully renovated marina, with shops and restaurants and promenade.

You will continue along the marina avenue towards Passeig de Gracia, a wide boulevard lined with lovely Art Nouveau buildings that connects the Gothic Quarter to the village of Gracia.

On your way to Montjuic you will pass by Placa Espanya, the Fair and Congress Palace and Maria Cristina Avenue.

Before returning to your ship, enjoy a panoramic photograph stop from scenic Montjuic's mirador with some of the best views over the city.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a ten minute walk at the viewpoint at Montjuic. Guests must be able to negotiate steps on to and off the coach.

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.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach. The sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with a photograph stop at Hythe and Beaulieu. There will be approximately 45 minutes free time in Lyndhurst.