Atlantic Islands - 12 nights, December 2013

Puerto de la Cruz lies at the mouth of the Orotava Valley. Tree-lined avenues, large modern hotels and a variety of shops have transformed this one-time quiet fishing village into the main tourist hub of the northern part of the island. Enjoy some free time to shop, or stroll along the promenade.

A visit will be made to the Orchid Garden, founded in 1774, where a vast variety of exotic species can be seen. This is the largest orchid collection in the Canaries. Enjoy a glass of wine in the garden during your stay.

Passing the university city of Laguna, the first capital of the island and the village of Tacoronte, you will descend to the small village of El Sauzal for a brief photography stop. Stopping next at Humboldt's viewpoint, take a look over the vast Orotava Valley with its impressive banana plantations.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The ground at the Orchid Gardens is uneven and gravel-covered in parts. There are also some slopes and steps to negotiate. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

Board your coach, sit back and relax while a local guide enlightens you on the countryside that you will pass though during your transfer to Santiago de Compostela.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The old, world-famous centre of European pilgrimage, its Romanesque cathedral, with an impressive Baroque façade, is the centre of life in Santiago de Compostela. The city has many other interesting buildings, such as the Old University, the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Maria del Sar and the Gelmirez Palace to name but a few.

This is the perfect opportunity to plan a day which suits your needs and makes the very most of your time in this fascinating city. You will have approximately four hours to explore independently.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer takes approximately 1¼ hours each way by coach. From the drop off point your guide will walk you (approximately 15 minutes) to the Obradoiro Square, the main square in front of the Cathedral. At a time specified by your guide, you will meet back at Obradoiro Square to walk back to the coach park for the transfer back to La Coruña. City maps will be provided on the coach. This is a transfer service only and no entrance fees or refreshments are included. Modest dress is required inside the Cathedral. During mass services, visits and photography are not permitted. Shops are generally closed on Sundays.

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.

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 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.

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.


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 operates on foot. 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 excursion only operates when the ship is berthed at Ocean Terminal.

Head into the city of La Coruña where your guide will bring to life the many city highlights. From the comfort of your seat, enjoy views of the Archaeological Museum and San Carlos Gardens (where the tomb of Sir John Moore is located). View the typical Galician 19 century buildings with their unique glass-paned balconies during your leisurely drive along the Avenida de la Marina.

Enjoy a photography opportunity at Europe’s oldest working lighthouse, the Tower of Hercules and the city’s most important monument. The original lighthouse was built in the 2 century A.D. and rebuilt in its present form in the 18 century.

Your scenic drive will also pass the Domus, Museum of Mankind, the excellent beaches of Orzan and Riazor, the Millenium Monument and through the City Centre.

Be tempted by an array of traditional Spanish tapas and a glass of wine, which will be served during while you enjoy stunning panoramic views over the city and Atlantic Ocean.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is minimal walking on this tour.

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 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.


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

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.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to and through the Mount Teide National Park is approximately 1½ hours. 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.

Board your coach, sit back and relax while a local guide enlightens you on the countryside that you’ll pass through during your transfer to Santiago de Compostela.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The old, world-famous centre of European pilgrimage, its Romanesque cathedral, with an impressive Baroque façade, is the centre of life in Santiago de Compostela. The city has many other interesting buildings, such as the Old University, the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Maria del Sar and the Gelmirez Palace to name but a few.

This is the perfect opportunity to plan a day which suits your needs and makes the very most of your time in this fascinating city. You'll have approximately 1½ hours to explore independently.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer takes approximately 1¼ hours each way by coach. From the drop off point your guide will walk you (approximately 15 minutes) to the Obradoiro Square, the main square in front of the Cathedral. At a time specified by your guide, you’ll meet back at Obradoiro Square to walk back to the coach park for the transfer back to La Coruña. City maps will be provided on the coach. This is a transfer service only and no entrance fees or refreshments are included. Modest dress is required inside the Cathedral. During mass services, visits and photography are not permitted. Shops are generally closed on Sundays.

After a short briefing, you will head off in your 4x4 jeep to be taken on a journey through some of the best scenery outside of Lisbon.

Staying on road, your drive will take you to the popular seaside resort of Cascais, where a short stop will be made. From here, your journey will continue to Cape Roca, Europe’s most easterly point, to enjoy the lovely views across the Atlantic Ocean.

Serra Sintra is your next stop, as you go off road and travel inland along the centenary tree-lined tracks. You’ll pass by the picturesque village of Ulgeria and on to the Memoria viewpoint where the Palacio da Pena can be seen in a distance, crowning a peak on the other side of the hills. A stop will be made en route to enjoy a light picnic snack of Portuguese aperitifs. You’ll continue driving along leafy lanes, passing by typical country villages, and enter the Monserrate Road to admire views of Monserrate Palace, Seteais Palace and Quinta da Regaleira Estate.

Heading back on road, a short stop will be made at the picturesque village of Sintra, before returning to Lisbon.

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 Jeep and on foot. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children may not participate.

Perched proudly on the hill southeast of Sintra, the Palace of Queluz is a wonderful piece of architecture. Dating back to 1747, the Palace was once a country mansion built by the infant Dom Pedro, later to be known as Dom Pedro III, it was then re-named Queluz Palace.

The gardens have become a focal point of the Palace with Baroque fountains, statues and places of recreation. You will be able to walk around and enjoy these at your own leisure.

Before heading into Cascais, you will have an opportunity to stop and photograph the viewpoint of Praia Do Guncho and admire the views over the bay. Take time to explore the streets of this small picturesque town or just sit and relax in one of the local cafe's and treat yourself to a coffee.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. There is no flash photography allowed within the Palace.

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.

After a short coach ride to Canico you’ll be met by your driver/guide who will always drive in the first car for the whole tour.

The tour takes you through Madeiran countryside. Driving up the old forest roads from Canico, you first reach the village of Camacha where there will be a comfort stop and some free time to visit a wickerwork workshop. You then continue along the narrow roads until reaching the top of the mountain Pico do Arieiro for a short break. The drive back down the mountain to the village of Santo da Serra is through lush and spectacular countryside. Enjoy the fresh air and the joy of driving these unique cars. At the Santo da Serra Golf Course, stop for a slice of cake and a coffee before returning to Canico via the viewpoint of Portela and the village of Machico.

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 car. Two guests can travel in each car. Request only one ticket per car and not the number in your party. Your car and keys together with driving instructions (map and safety features) will be distributed when you meet your guide. Guests must be 18 years or older and you must bring a clean, valid driving licence with photo ID. A security deposit of 500 Euros will need to be put on a credit card in case of accidents. A full tank of gasoline is included.