Mediterranean Discovery - 12 nights, November 2013

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.

The Roman City of Bath and the beautiful countryside which surrounds it, has been described as one of England's most beautiful places to visit. Bath is situated within the south west of England and is a 2,000 year old fabulous spa town, built around Britain's only hot mineral springs.

Bath offers a multitude of fantastic places to visit and is very easy to navigate on foot. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, the city has some of the finest architectural sites in Europe and boasts a unique and diverse range of historic features, which attract people the world over.

Your visit will begin with a panoramic tour of Bath, with your guide bringing the city to life as you pass the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus and the parks, including Royal Victoria Park. There will be approximately three hours’ free time to explore this historic city at your own leisure. Watch the many street performers, visit the Roman Baths Museum, discover Jane Austen’s connection to the city at the Jane Austen Centre, wander around the fabulous shops or simply sit back and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.


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 Bath is approximately 1¾ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling). Any walking is at guests’ own discretion. Bath is relatively flat but some streets are cobbled.

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.

Journey from the pier to the city centre harbour to board your catamaran for a relaxing cruise along Barcelona’s coastline, taking in some of the city’s most famous sights.

Sit back and relax with a glass of Sangria and some light snacks as you enjoy first class views of the city and the stunning coastline. During your cruise you will see some of the city’s most well-known icons including the Agbar and Maphre Towers, Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece; the Sagrada Familia and the old harbour, to name a few.

You may also choose to make the most of the weather and use this wonderful opportunity to sunbathe.


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 catamaran. This tour may be cancelled in poor weather conditions. Guests are reminded to wear sunscreen. There are approximately five steps to board the boat. Please wear your swimwear and bring a towel if you wish to sunbathe.

Lying in the foothills of Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the Alhambra is the ‘Palace of the Sultans’ and one of the world’s finest examples of Islamic art. Although damaged and restored over the centuries, it is not difficult to picture the place as it was in all its glory 600 years ago. The ceilings drip with stalactites in stucco and each room appears more richly decorated than the previous one. Marvel at the delicate marble columns, graceful arcades and fine craftsmanship in the sultans’ ‘paradise on earth’.

The Generalife is a small Summer Palace, the highlight of which is its garden and numerous fountains. The stately cypress trees, trimmed flowerbeds, myrtle bushes and fountains provide good photo opportunities. The view from here is splendid, gaze down over the Sierra Nevada, to the Darro Valley and across to the old quarter of Albaycin.

During your tour, a delicious buffet luncheon will be offered at a leading hotel in Granada.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The estimated journey time to Granada is two hours each way. There are around 400 steps at the Alhambra and Generalife to negotiate, with approximately two hours of walking involved on the tour.

Jutting out of the Bay of Cadiz, and almost entirely surrounded by water, Cadiz can lay claim to being Europe’s oldest city. Legend has it that Hercules was the founder of ancient Cadiz. Some of its 18th century walls still stand and the old quarter is famous for its picturesque charm.

One of the best ways of getting to know a city is by exploring on foot. Your guide will take you through narrow lanes, where flowers sprout from rusting cans mounted on walls beside religious paintings. At the Plaza de España, you will find a monument to the first Spanish constitution of 1812 and then pass by the Town Hall in the Plaza de San Juan de Dios. The golden cupola of the Cathedral looms high above long, white houses and you can hear how this house of worship was built from silver and gold from the New World. Relax awhile with a refreshment of sherry, beer or a soft drink at a local café.

Get the most from your visit by exploring the many highlights of this once highly fortified town in the company of a knowledgeable guide and at a leisurely pace.


This excursion will operate on foot. This tour is entirely on foot from the quay. 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).

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.

Valencia is Spain’s third largest city. Sit back and relax as you enjoy a panoramic tour to admire some of the culturally diverse districts of the city, including the Carmen Quarter, Torre de Quart and Case de Beneficence.

Your tour continues on foot from the city’s Central Market past the Bullring , Central Station and the 15th Century Silk Exchange which is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic civil architecture in Europe. Head off into the Spanish countryside to San José and the Caves of Valle d’Uxo. As you descend into the eerie depths, you’ll transfer into small boats to discover the natural beauty of the ‘Bat Cave’, ‘Diana’s Lake’ and the ‘Dry Zone’. Witness the ‘Cathedral’ with its stunning symphony of colours and sides that have been carved out by water over thousands of years.

As you travel back to your ship, you will be able to view the more modern ‘City of Arts and Sciences’, which was designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour of walking over uneven ground and 10-15 steps to negotiate at the caves. Flat, comfortable footwear is recommended.Photography is not permitted inside the caves. This tour is not recommended for anyone suffering with claustrophobia.

Your journey will take you through the beautiful New Forest National Park, where you will have the chance to see the famous New Forest ponies which graze on the wild heathland, before arriving at Exbury Gardens. Created in the 1920’s, Exbury Gardens are a spectacular 200 acre site, world famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and shrubs. So spectacular are the gardens that the Queen of England enjoys private visits every year.

The Gardens have been specially created to reflect the changing colours of nature throughout the different seasons. During the spring the magnolias, camellias, azaleas and wisteria burst into flower, whilst the Daffodil Meadow is a carpet of glorious gold. The spectacular collection of over ten thousand rhododendron specimens is at its best with its display of beautiful colours.

During the tour there will be the opportunity to take a delightful 20 minute ride on a small narrow gauge steam railway to see parts of the Gardens not accessible on foot.

The Gardens contain a quaint tearoom, which serves a delicious English cream tea (own expense), and an extensive gift shop selling an array of gifts and souvenirs.


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, mini steam train and on foot. There is up to three hours of walking, which is at guests' discretion. The railway and main paths of the Gardens are wheelchair accessible. There is a buggy tour available on the day for those with limited mobility (additional expense, payable direct).

Dolphin watching not only gives you the opportunity to get out into the fresh air on a boat trip in the Bay, but the thrill of seeing dolphins swimming playfully alongside the boat and leaping in the waves is unforgettable.

Your experienced captain and crew will point out the different species of dolphin found in these waters - the Common Dolphin, Striped Dolphin and Bottle-nosed. These mammals breed in the sheltered waters, which are rich in food, and young dolphins can often be seen - always a great attraction.

Sailing back towards the Rock, your captain will point out key landmarks and give you some interesting snippets about Gibraltar.

Afterwards, a coach will be waiting to take you back to the ship. Time permitting, you may opt to walk into town (550 yards away). In this case you will be responsible for making your own way back to the ship.


BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by mini-coach and boat. Guests are advised that whilst every effort will be made to find the dolphins, these animals are in their natural habitat and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Guests are advised to take a camera, binoculars and sun protection. This tour is weather dependent.

Your tour begins with a panoramic overview of both old and new Valencia. Passing The City of Arts you will head towards the heart of the city with its many historical buildings and monuments.

Upon arrival at the ‘City of Porcelain’, otherwise known as the Lladŕo Factory, you will be taken through the production chain, learning about the fascinating production of the Lladŕo porcelain. Lladŕo was started by three brothers in the 1950’s in a small workshop.

The family-run workshop saw the birth of the renowned stylised porcelain sculptures, which have earned Lladro well-deserved fame worldwide. Before your tour of the factory, you will be taken into the audiovisual room to acquaint yourself with the history of porcelain, the company and the steps in the handcrafted process of the creation of Lladŕo porcelain.

In the Museum are exhibits of the early Lladŕo pieces. There will be an opportunity to purchase any item of Lladŕo in the shop at the end of your tour.
Enjoy a taste of local flavours of the nut based drink, ‘horchata’, a typical nut based Spanish drink, before your return journey back to the port.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.Guests are advised that the visit to the Lladŕo factory involves a considerable amount of standing.

Setting off from Malaga by minivan, you will begin to wind your way up the mountainside of the Montes de Malaga Natural Park. Sit back, relax and enjoy the superb views, keeping your eyes peeled along the way for the local wildlife, including deer, polecats and vultures.

After a short safety briefing, you will be supplied with your bike and safety equipment. You will be able to ride at your own pace so that you can admire the best viewpoints, flora, fauna and stop for photographs along the way. Ease your way gently up the hills before descending steadily to the refreshment venue where you can take a well-earned rest. Admire the wonderful views of the Natural Park as you enjoy traditional 'tapas' and a refreshing soft drink, tea or coffee.

A brief observation stop will be made to view the protected area of the Leonado Vultures.


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 minibus and bicycle This bike ride involves an advanced level of activity; therefore you must be a competent rider, at least 16 years of age and in good health. You should bring along eye protection and wear closed toe shoes. Your tour includes a full explanation of equipment, complete safety instructions and a safety helmet (compulsory). Each individual bike will carry water. Personal belongings can be left safely in the escort van.

With your fellow cyclists, your guided bike ride will begin in the popular Ciutadella Park. Originally a fortress designed for King Felipe V, the Park now offers a small boating lake with stunning orange groves and a variety of parrots that live in the palm trees.

During the two and half hour bike ride, you will pass by the Zoological Museum, Parliament, Arc del Triumph and Palau de la Musica until you reach the Old Town's Gothic Cathedral. Here you will have some free time for shopping or to explore the Cathedral independently.

The tour continues through the famous and colourful avenue of Las Ramblas, passing through historic squares. Soak up the history and admire the beautiful old buildings as you cycle through the very narrow streets lined with unusual shops. From Columbus Square, the route will take you back to the Ciutadella Park, passing through the Moll de la Fusta, Passeig Maritim and Port Olimpic.


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 bike. You will transfer by coach to Citadel Park to prepare for your cycling tour and by coach back to the ship at the end of your tour. A safety briefing will be given and cycle helmets are compulsory. The cycle ride is mostly through pedestrian areas along cycle paths and is approximately five miles in distance, at an intermediate level of activity. The minimum age for participation on this tour is eight years old.

Take a short transfer to the harbour where you will reach the helipad and your waiting helicopter.

Hold tight for an exciting ten minute ride over the colourful city of Barcelona. Fly over some of the significant sites including the Forum, La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell and the Tibidabo hills. You will also fly over FC Barcelona's Nou Camp stadium, the Olympic grounds and facilities at Montjuic.

Your panoramic helicopter will be flying 1,500 feet over the city to provide you with a true bird's eye view of Barcelona.


This excursion will operate by coach and helicopter. This tour will operate subject to local weather conditions and may be cancelled at short notice. Each helicopter seats a maximum of six. Not all guests will have a window seat, but there is good visibility from all seats. If the ship is berthed in Terminal A, you may transfer to the heliport on foot (approximately ten minutes walk each way).