Mediterranean Adventures - 12 nights, October 2013

Leaving the pier you’ll take a 20 minute scenic drive around the Bay of Gibraltar to the edge of a natural Cork Forest. En route you’ll have a brief photo stop allowing you dramatic views of the “Rock” framed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

Tucked away in the forest, you‘ll visit a typical Andalucian farmhouse dating from 1797 with a patio and traditional old barns. This building is part of a family-run cork and cattle farm.

Your guide will show you how the cork bark is harvested from the oak trees, a centuries-old method to create the perfect cork bottle-stopper. Andalucia produces half of the world´s cork and this area boasts a special high quality cork sold to the international wine trade market. Whilst you are at the farm, you’ll have the opportunity to view the deep red local Retinto breed of cattle, one of Spain's purest breeds, and sample some local tapas.

You may wish to browse for a memento of your tour at the traditional farm shop offering local products such as leather and cork goods, excellent quality olive oils and sherry, and beautiful handcrafted souvenirs all locally sourced.


This excursion operates by coach and on foot.There is approximately 45 minutes of walking over various surfaces with a few steps. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please carry your passport as this will need to be presented at the border.

Meet your guide at the pier for a walking tour of Cadiz, Cadiz is thought by some to be the oldest city in Europe, founded in 1100 BC by the Phoenicians who called it ‘Gadir’. As you stroll through the historical part of Cadiz, see the Town Hall, the impressive Cathedral and ‘Plaza de las Flores’ (Flower-Sellers Square). There will be time to enjoy a refreshing drink or browse the local souvenir shops.

Join your coach and make your way to city of Jerez de la Frontera - home of sherry wine, flamenco and Andalusia horses.

Upon arrival in Jerez you’ll see the most interesting buildings, squares and monuments from the comfort of your coach before continuing on foot to the Alcazar, an amazing 12th century Moorish Fortress. You’ll also have the chance to see the Cathedral of Jerez and the beautiful ‘Plaza de Arenal’ before some free time to rest your feet and sample a local sherry wine.



This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours’ walking during this tour. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

A wonderful way to see the city of Lisbon without having to walk around the city. Have your camera at the ready as you enter the area of Belem and view the Presidential Palace, The Monastery of Jeronimos, Tower of Belem and the Monument of Discoveries.

Drive through the exclusive residential district where many of the foreign embassies are located and then see the impressive 18th Century stone aqueduct, 11 miles long, which until recently was used to bring fresh water into Lisbon. A stop will be taken at Belvedere to admire the panoramic view across the city.

Afterwards, drive down the famous avenue of Liberty to Rossio Square, to see the Santa Justa Elavator, designed by an apprentice of the famous Gustave Eiffel. Finally you will see the one of the most impressive squares in Lisbon the Praca co Comercio (Black Horse Square).

This is a great tour for those wishing to relax and enjoy a scenic tour of Lisbon.


This excursion will operate by coach. The order of highlights may vary. There are steps into the Belem Tower for those requiring toilet facilities.

As you rise up towards the Top of the Rock Station aboard the cable car, enjoy views of the town, across to Africa and over to Spain. Walk from the Top of the Rock down to St Michael's Cave with your guide, who will point out views and places of interest along the way. Marvel at the amazing stalactites and stalagmites in the Cave.

Think of Gibraltar and the apes come to mind. The Rock's most popular tourist attraction, these tail-less apes roam about freely, much to the delight of photographers. (Please note they are wild animals, and are not to be touched or fed however friendly they may seem).

Take a guided walk of approximately 45 minutes through the unique system of the Great Siege Tunnels, carved through solid limestone. Excavated during the Great Siege of 1779-83, they allowed the mounting of gun emplacements along the north face of the rock towards enemy positions.


This excursion will operate by mini-coach, cable-car and on foot. Guests are advised that there is a lot of walking involved in this tour over uneven ground and steep gradients within the Tunnels. Sturdy, non-slip shoes are recommended. Please expect queues at the cable car.

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.

A leisurely walk along Cartagena’s seafront with your guide will allow you see some of Cartagena’s most famous sights as you head towards the historical Old Town.

The Peral Submarine is located in Cartagena’s harbour and was the first electric battery powered submarine, its operational abilities led some to refer to it as the first U Boat. You will also pass the Palace Hall, Punic Wall and some of the art nouveau buildings which were erected in the early 20th century due to a growth in the local mining industry.

Along the way you will visit five local Tapas bars where each chef will have prepared traditional tapas of the day which may include Albondigas, Spanish Omlette, Jamon or cheeses for you to sample with a glass of sangria or wine to wash it down.

Your final stop on the walking tour will be the recently restored Roman Theatre of Carthago Nova where you will have some time inside for photographs before walking back to your ship.


This excursion will operate on foot.There is approximately 1½ hours’ walking on this tour, flat comfortable shoes are recommended.

Set in the heart of Costa Blanca, Elche is surrounded by thousands of palm trees, which were originally introduced by the Phoenicians in around 300 BC. Enjoy a stroll along the paths between the ponds and the abundant plants, shrubs, trees and cacti in the Priest’s Garden. The Garden’s focal point is the magnificent eight trunked ‘Imperial Palm’. Treat your taste buds to a specially-prepared tasting of local produce such as dates, fig bread, dried apricots and date liqueur, while you admire a demonstration of how a palm tree is pruned.

In the old town centre, a short visit will be made to the Basilica de Santa Maria. This delightful, blue-domed baroque church, built in the 17th century is where the yearly passion play, the ‘Mystery of Elche’ is held.

Stroll through the tranquil Municipal Park, before enjoying some free time to explore Elche on your own.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to/from Elche is approximately 1¼ hours each way. This tour involves walking over flat, hard-packed sand and pavements for approximately three hours.

Sit back and relax as you drive south through the Murcian countryside to the once thriving mining town of La Unión. The Romans were the first people to begin extracting minerals from the mines here and with a landscape that is dotted with zinc, iron, lead and pyrite you will have some stunning photograph opportunities.

Cartagena was founded by the Phoencians in 227BC but flourished as part of the Roman Empire, when it was known as Cathargo Nova. Around the city there is an abundance of Phonecian, Roman, Byzantine and Moorish remains and as your city panorama continues around Town Hall Square and Calle Mayor (main street) you will see the contrasting architecture.

One of the most interesting remains of the city is the Roman Theatre Museum. Once inside, enjoy a guided walk around the Museum and learn more about the many influences that the inhabitants of this important region had. If you don’t feel like walking, there is the option to watch a DVD about the Museum and Roman Theatre while you wait for the group.


This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 40 minutes of optional walking at the Roman Theatre Museum.

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.

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.

For a truly memorable experience, take the opportunity to see the Spanish-Andalusian horses perform their spectacular show. These beautiful, pure breed creatures have incredible grace, speed and stamina and their experienced riders display wonderful skills of horsemanship. The prestigious Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art was established in the 1970’s in the grounds of a splendid 19th century palace, and ever since the ‘dressage and dance’ performances have enthralled audiences. The show starts promptly at midday and lasts for approximately 1½ hours.

Whether it is sherry-fino, amontillado or oloroso, you will want to sample this fine fortified wine here in its hometown. One of the famous ‘bodegas’ of Jerez opens its doors and invites you to see the blending process of this popular tipple. Your visit is rounded off with a tasting session of three different varieties within the unique atmosphere of the cellar itself.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The drive to Jerez is approximately 45 minutes each way. Cameras and videos are not permitted around the horses; only in the grounds. Please note there are approximately 25 steps up to the seating area of the Horse Show.

On a short panoramic tour of the city, you will pass through the Paseo de Gracia, the widest avenue in town. Here, you will see plenty of Modernist houses designed by Gaudi; including the unusual La Pedrera House and other important architects of the period.

Designed by Gaudi; in 1882 and never completed, the Church of Sagrada Familia stands as witness to Gaud's creative, although controversial genius. Construction began again in 1939, but faltered due to confusion over Gaudi's plans. Join your guide for an interior visit and learn about Gaudi's vision for the Church. The final construction is meant to include 18 towers in total and is based on the 12 apostles, four evangelists, the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.

Park Guell was designed by Gaudi in the early part of the 20th century. Take a leisurely stroll through this hillside garden suburb of Barcelona, fashioned after the English model of a 'Garden City'.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves some walking, including steps uneven surfaces and cobblestones throughout Park Guell. Due to parking restrictions there is a 15 minute walk each way to the Sagrada Familia. Comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended.

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 will 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.


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 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).

From the Monument of Columbus, enter the colourful boulevard known as La Rambla. The walking tour then begins from the oldest part of Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter, surrounded by the remains of Roman walls. This is an 'island' within the urban metropolis with narrow, tortuous streets of ancient stone and magnificent historical buildings.

Moving into the Gothic Quarter, you will cross Placa Reial to arrive at the site of the Palau de la Generalitat, a 15th century Gothic structure with a renaissance facade. After visiting Placa Nova with its twin semi-circular towers of the well-preserved Roman Walls, and following the remaining ruins, you will arrive at the Cathedral, a Gothic structure dating from the 14th and 15th centuries.

At the Boqueria Food Market, you will have a chance to browse the many food stalls and soak up the atmosphere of the place.

Following the visit, there will be some free time for independent sightseeing and shopping before rejoining your coach back to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a substantial amount of walking over some cobbled surfaces and steps. Comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. On festive days, a guided visit inside the Cathedral is not permitted, however there will be time to explore independently. Modest dress is required inside the Cathedral; shoulders should be covered and no shorts or mini-skirts are allowed. Boqueria Food Market is closed on Sundays; you will have free time to explore the Gothic Quarter instead. The order of highlights may vary.

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.