Atlantic Islands - 12 nights, December 2013

This picturesque tour offers a new dimension to Madeira, with stunning views from a cable car and a thrilling toboggan ride.

A rack and pinion railway once took passengers up the hillside from Funchal and the return to the coast was by toboggan. The railway closed in 1939, but an Austrian company has constructed a cable car for the trip up to Monte, noted for its many fine properties and gardens. The Funchal station is situated in the old part of town, and the journey from Funchal to Monte takes 15 minutes. (The cable car access is similar to a ski lift. The car does not stop for boarding; it just slows in motion).

Experience the ancient wicker-sled transport on a thrilling 10 minute toboggan ride. The drivers run alongside the toboggans, pushing and steering and using their rubber-soled boots as brakes.

Your tour continues by coach to Pico Dos Barcelos, a flower-decked belvedere where you will have wonderful views towards the east of the island.

Making your way back to Funchal, you will make a stop at the wine lodge where you can sample the different types of Madeira wine, ranging from the dry Sercial to sweet Malmsey.

Note: The toboggan is a popular tourist attraction and there may be queues before boarding. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear, and follow the instructions of the toboggan drivers once seated. Toboggans hold up to three participants (two adults and one child).

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy a VIP tour of the medieval town of Romsey with its stunning Abbey, interesting history and links to Florence Nightingale.

Discover the medieval 7th century market town of Romsey. This quaint town with its tudor character and historical buildings is where the Prince and Princess of Wales began their honeymoon in 1981.

Your first stop will be at the country estate of Embley Park, former home of Florence Nightingale. Florence, also known as ‘The Lady with the Lamp’ was the founder of modern nursing which began during the Crimean War. You’ll be shown an interesting presentation illustrating her pioneering work on nursing and sanitary reforms which she achieved during her life before taking a guided tour of the west wing of the grand house and gardens. Florence is said to have had a calling from God whilst seated beneath a giant cedar tree in the grounds. Refreshments of tea, coffee and cake will be served in the library.

Nearby, at St Margaret’s Church, you’ll be able to see Florence’s grave with its ornate headstone. Thousands of people from all over the world come here annually on her birthday, the 12th May (International Nurses Day), to celebrate her contribution to health reformation.

On arrival in the historic town centre of Romsey, you will receive a VIP welcome from the Mayor, in his colourful official robes, before visiting the beautiful stone 10th century Romsey Abbey. Inside the Abbey you’ll discover the fine Norman architecture, elaborate stonework, magnificent stained glass windows and interesting memorials as you hear of its history and how it managed to survive the Dissolution of Monasteries in 1538.

Before returning to the ship, you’ll have around 30 minutes of free time to explore the historical town further or browse the boutiques and shops.

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Experience the world beneath the sea as you embark on a submarine dive.

The opportunity to submerge into the sea on board a submarine is a memorable and unique experience.

The clear waters and bountiful marine life surrounding the island of Lanzarote will enhance your experience aboard. The specially designed submarine is fitted with individual TV monitors and display panels and will unveil the underwater world outside. This ‘aquarium in reverse’ will provide you with a view of a world with marine life in its natural environment.

The attractive marina of Puerto Calero is home to some impressive sailing and motor yachts and a popular destination for round-the-world regattas. You will have a short time here before returning to Arrecife.

Note: This tour is unguided and will operate subject to weather conditions. The dive lasts approximately 45 minutes and the submarine is fully air-conditioned. It is necessary to climb down six steps into the submarine using a ladder. An escort will accompany you on the transfers to and from Puerto Calero. We regret that children under the age of two are not permitted to participate. Please note that a safety briefing will take place prior to embarking onto the submarine.

This simple transfer allows you to enjoy some time at Puerto Calero Marina.

Puerto Calero is an attractive marina and is home to some impressive sailing and motor yachts. It has also become a popular destination for round-the-world regattas.

Enjoy a short drive to the south west coast of the island where, upon arrival at Puerto Calero, the time will be yours to spend as you please.

The small marina is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely stroll and admire the fabulous boats and yachts. You may wish to purchase a drink from one of the bars or cafés that overlook the marina, and simply watch the world go by.

For those who like to shop, you will find a selection of boutiques offering designer labels including Lacoste, Boss, Ralph Laurent and Armani.

Following your visit, you will meet with your escort at the designated time and place for the return drive to the port.

Note: The level of walking on this tour is at guests’ discretion. There are steps to negotiate onto and off the coach. This tour is unguided and exclusive of any meals, refreshments or entrance fees. Euros are accepted for purchases. An English speaking escort will accompany the transfer. Please take note of the return meeting point and time as coaches cannot be held for latecomers.

Discover Southampton’s historic buildings and its links with the legendary Titanic on this fascinating walking tour.

Titanic pulled away from the White Star dock in Southampton at the start of her maiden voyage on 10th April 1912. Five days later in the early hours of 15th April she sank after striking an iceberg. The disaster made headlines across the world and had a devastating effect on the people of Southampton. Of the 724 crew which lived within in the area - only 175 returned home.

Your interesting walking tour commences at Ocean Terminal, which is located adjacent to the site of the original White Star dock. A leisurely stroll will take you through Queen’s Park and past the luxury flats which used to be the old South Western Hotel. This hotel was where the First Class passengers stayed before embarking on the majestic liner. Close by are the old White Star offices where Southampton residents gathered in their hundreds, waiting day after day for news of loved ones.

A walk along Oxford Street will take you past some of the drinking establishments used by the ill fated crew including The Grapes pub, which is where filming took place for the famous ‘Titanic’ movie. At the end of the street are the ruins of Holyrood Church where a memorial to the Titanic crew stands. As you wander past the ancient Southampton walls and through the main shopping precinct, with its eclectic mix of shops, you’ll hear poignant tales of the Titanic heroes and survivors.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the SeaCity Museum. This interactive Museum is filled with information and interesting memorabilia of the fateful disaster and illustrates the impact the liner has had on the city.

Note: There is two hours walking on mostly flat ground with some slight inclines. The return journey will be by shuttle bus. Guests can opt to remain in the city centre and make their own way back to the berth by shuttle bus at their own convenience. This tour only operates when the ship is berthed at Ocean Terminal.

Discover the spiritual history that surrounds Fatima and the appearance of the ‘Virgin Mary’ or ‘Lady of the Rosary’ in 1917.

This full day tour takes you to through the Tagus Plains and the bullfighting region of Vila Franca, before reaching Fatima, an international pilgrimage site.

According to local lore, three peasant children from a nearby village observed a ‘Lady of the Light’ hovering above a small oak tree at the Cova Da Iraia (the cove of peace). This was believed to be the blessed ‘Virgin Mary’ and after returning on the same day for over five months, a miracle was said to have been written in the sky in front of over 70,000 witnesses. Today, many people from around the world make the famous pilgrimage to Fatima in search of the miracles.

Visit the famous Basilica with its spectacular stained-glass windows and paintings. Inside the Basilica you will see the resting place of the legendary three peasant children, Lucia Santos and her two cousins, Jacinat and Francisco Marto, at the Chapel of Apparitions.

Take some free time and enjoy luncheon on your own then browse some of the local shops for souvenirs.

Note: Comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended. There is approximately four hours of walking over flat ground on this tour.

Tour some of the most scenic spots of Tenerife by jeep and regain your sense of adventure.

A short transfer from the ship will bring you to your jeeps, ready and waiting to take you on an island discovery.

Embark on your adventure towards the Cañadas del Teide, passing by the attractive Esperanza Forest for photograph stop. Further photography stops will be made before stopping for a snack to enjoy a coffee and pastry.

The National Park of Las Cañadas is an enormous crater covering an area of 13,571 hectares, from which emerges the majestic cone of Mount Teide. The mountain is Spain’s highest and can be seen from almost everywhere on the island. The Park also extends as far as the Ucanca Valley, the largest plain in the Park, along with its lava fields. View the rock formation known as ‘God’s Finger’ at the Mirador del Dedo de Dios, where a stop will be made for photographs, before your return drive to the ship.

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Due to restrictions in the National Park, the jeeps are not permitted to go off road. There is a high step onto the jeeps. Jeeps are open top and open sided and seat 8 guests each on inward facing, bench style seats. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. The minimum age for participation is 6 years of age.

One of the best ways to get to know a city is on foot. Follow your guide to explore many of the city’s most popular attractions.

From the quayside, you will take a leisurely walk along the Avenida Montoto and the Paseo de la Darsena before arriving at San Carlos Gardens. Your guide will explain about Sir John Moore, an English General, who was killed in La Coruña. You will see his tomb at the San Carlos Gardens, one of the most romantic corners of the city.

On your stroll around the old city, you will pass by the convent of Santo Domingo, which contains a chapel dedicated to La Coruña’s patron ‘La Virgen del Rosario’. Sitting on the highest part of La Coruña is the church of Santa Maria del Campo, built between the 12th and 15th centuries. You will see other fascinating sights such as the church of Santiago and Santa Barbara, Azcarraga and Maria Pita Squares.

Your walking tour will finish at Maria Pita Square. Before leaving you, your guide will give directions to the nearest shops and café bars as well as advising you how to make your way back to the ship.

Note: This tour is entirely on foot and involves some steps, slight inclines and uneven, cobbled ground.

Enjoy all the major highlights of Lisbon from the comfort of your coach. View the Belem area and many more city sites.

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 Eiffel of the famed Eiffel Tower in Paris. 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.

Note: The order of highlights may vary. There are steps into the Belem Tower for those requiring toilet facilities.

This scenically rewarding excursion contains some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring scenery in the whole archipelago.

Your tour starts off with a drive into the mountains of Anaga, passing the fishing village of San Andres. On your way, marvel at the magnificent Canary flora, including the ‘Dragon Tree’ and terraces of tiny cultivated plots of land. Arrive at the El Bailadero viewpoint, where you’ll have the chance to capture on film some of the stunning scenery.

At the small village of Taganana, you will enter a scene of white houses and bare volcanic mountains, on a horizon of blue sky and shimmering sea. If you wish, you can walk with the guide up the hill to visit the simple church (except Sundays), which houses the figure of ‘Our Lady of the Snows’. Local wine and cheese will be served at a restaurant in Taganana.

A brief stop will be made from the panoramic point of Pico del Ingles, where you will have a beautiful perspective (weather permitting) of the north and south side of the island, which is quite unforgettable.

Note: This excursion is mainly a scenic drive, with a few steps and cobblestones at Taganana. The walking is optional. This excursion involves some steep, hairpin bends and is not recommended to anyone suffering from vertigo.

This lovely little tour introduces you to the traditions and crafts of Madeira along with its glorious flowers and wines.

Funchal Market is a social and commercial occasion; the market is an integral part of Portuguese life. As you wander around the stalls, you will find an array of tropical fruits, unusual vegetables, colourful flowers and local crafts.

See one of the island’s largest inland villages, Camacha, which is the centre of the osier industry producing the well-known Madeira wickerwork. You will have time to browse in the showrooms and perhaps purchase a few souvenirs. Some light refreshments will be offered during your stop in Camacha.

A visit to a leading embroidery factory in Funchal presents exquisite examples of handicrafts, which have been made following Madeira traditions since the last century. Crafts can be purchased and a sample of the Madeira Wine will be served.

A brief stop will be made at a local wine lodge for another opportunity to taste the famous wine.

Note: The market and wine lodge are situated in Funchal. You are advised that a walk up a slope and some steps will be need to be negotiated to reach the wine lodge.

Rising over 12,000 feet – Mount Teide is one of the most famous sights in all of the Canary Islands.

Your tour begins with a drive towards the old colonial capital of La Laguna, situated in the Aguirre Valley amidst beautiful surroundings. From La Laguna, your route turns along the base of the mountain range, through the Esperanza pine forests and foothills to the Teide National Park. A short stop will be made at El Portillo Restaurant for refreshments before heading into the heart of the Park.

Declared a national park in 1954, the Cañadas del Teide National Park includes an enormous volcanic crater, which has been dormant since 1909 and is over 29 miles in circumference. From the crater, rising 12,300 feet, is Mount Teide - the highest mountain in all of Spanish territory. Take in the views of this impressive peak and the surrounding arid landscape in the crater, which is often said to resemble the set of a western movie.
Enjoy some free time at the Parador hotel centre before reboarding the coach for your return journey. En route to the ship several stops will be made for photographs, giving you the opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

Note: This excursion will travel up some mountain roads to approximately seven thousand feet above sea level. Warm clothing is recommended. It is forbidden to remove any stones or plants from the National Park. The cable car at Mount Teide is NOT included. Walking is mainly flat over gravel and paved areas. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.

Discover the delights of this wonderful town at your own pace.

Your transfer will take you north, to Puerto de la Cruz, a popular resort with a charming atmosphere.

However you choose to spend your time in Puerto de la Cruz, you will not be disappointed. Perhaps start off by exploring the old colonial part of town, where many of the houses still retain their beautiful architecture and distinctive Canarian balconies. Stop for a coffee in the shady square before exploring the narrow winding streets.

Puerto de la Cruz has a wonderful promenade, great for strolling and browsing the many souvenir shops. You may choose to explore the Botanical Gardens, situated on the edge of the town, where you can discover plants and trees from all five continents.

There is a whole host of attractions for you to enjoy, during your stay in Puerto de la Cruz.

Note: This tour is un-guided and does not include luncheon or refreshments. Please carry local currency. The transfer time is approximately 30-40 minutes each way and maps will be provided on the coach. Please make note of the return time and meeting point, coaches cannot be held for latecomers.

Experience the thrill of seeking out whales and dolphins in their natural habitat and take a dip in the clear waters.

Sunbathe on the catamaran’s netting, whilst sipping a refreshing drink, or enjoy the coastal views as you sit in the shade. Take the plunge off the diving platform into the crystal-clear waters of a nature reserve, where you will stop for a swim.

Although there is never a 100% guarantee of whale or dolphin sightings, the crew are always optimistic and will make every effort to seek them out. Throughout the trip, soft drink refreshments and wine, beer will be served. A small snack will also be offered during the tour.

Note: Guests who are prone to seasickness are advised to take the necessary precautions. Remember your swim attire, a towel and sun protection. Shoes must be removed before boarding the catamaran. This tour is un-guided. As whales and dolphins are viewed in their natural environment, please follow the catamaran crew’s instructions at all times. If whales are spotted, you will not be permitted to swim close to them. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities.