Atlantic Islands - 12 nights, December 2013

This simple transfer will take you to the south coast of Lanzarote, to the longest established resort of Puerto del Carmen.

Upon arrival, the time is yours to spend as you please. Relax on the beach or enjoy the cafés, bars and restaurants. If you prefer some retail therapy, you will find a variety of shops selling items such as clothes, shoes, electrical items and souvenirs.

After your stay, you will meet back with your escort at the agreed time and place for the return transfer 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 coach. The level of walking on this tour is at guests' discretion. This tour is non-guided and does not include luncheon, refreshments or entrance fees. You are advised to carry local currency. An English speaking escort will accompany the transfer. Should you wish to hire sun beds or umbrellas, the approximate cost of these are five Euros each. Please take note of the return meeting point and time as coaches cannot be held for latecomers. There may be independent suppliers on the beach at Puerto del Carmen that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

Unique to Lanzarote, the dromedary camel will transport you in a wicker basket-chair situated either side of the camel's hump. The 20-minute camel ride will take you in a camel-train over the volcanic dunes, which lie at the entrance to the Timanfaya National Park.

The lava fields are seen on both sides of the road as you approach Fire Mountain and the scenery becomes more reminiscent of the surface of the moon with lava formations and volcanic craters. Demonstrations by uniformed staff will show you the violent forces beneath the earth's crust, proving that the volcano is not extinct, but only dormant.

At the wine growing area of La Geria, a stop will be made at a 'bodega' to allow you to taste one of the local wines. (Please note that there is no seating inside and seating outside is limited).


This excursion will operate by coach and camel. Guests are advised to take a wrap or jacket as it may be windy up on Fire Mountain. Please note that the National Park is a popular tourist attraction and delays may be encountered on entrance. Sensible, closed toe, walking shoes are recommended. This tour travels along some winding mountain roads. The ground at Fire Mountain is sloping in parts. Participants in the wine tasting must be 18 years of age or over.

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.

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.

A short drive out of Southampton will bring you to the New Forest. The New Forest, originally created by William the Conqueror for deer hunting, is a mixture of open grazing, woodland and heath. The Forest has remained almost untouched for 1,000 years and is famous for its tiny villages with traditional thatched cottages and wild ponies which roam free on the land. Today it is managed by the Forestry Commission and in 2004 was designated a National Park.

Your scenic drive will take you through the heart of the New Forest, with its famous New Forest ponies, past a variety of beautiful landscapes to three of its prettiest villages; Hythe, Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

The historic marina village of Hythe is located alongside Southampton Water and on a clear day you can see across to where your cruise ship is berthed. The village also boasts the world’s oldest operating pier train.

The picturesque village of Beaulieu dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its Abbey, Motor Museum and Palace Manor House. Admire the lovely views across Beaulieu River as you pass through this quaint village.

The New Forest capital, Lyndhurst is a bustling village containing tea rooms, pubs, souvenir shops, local stores and ice cream vendors. You will have the chance to visit the New Forest Visitor Centre to view its exhibits, browse the local shops or relax in one of the tea rooms.


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

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

As you travel northwards, enjoy a visit to the old capital of Teguise, declared a site of historic and architectural importance. You will also make a stop at the Haria viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of the northern headland and neighbouring islands.

Your journey will continue to the Aloe Vera Farm tucked away in the village of Orzola. Aloe vera is a typical plant of warmer regions and one that grows exceptionally well on the island of Lanzarote. The plant is used for a multitude of purposes from preventing wound infection to being a valuable ingredient of skincare, it can even be taken orally. During your visit you will have the opportunity to try some aloe juice or liqueur.

Afterwards, you will head to Manrique's Jardin de Cactus, filled with over 1,500 cacti from more than 100 different species found in Lanzarote, America and Madagascar. The Garden is a stone-built enclosure and provides a stunning background for these unusual plants. It is also in this area that the cochineal beetle has been cultivated. The beetle lives on cacti and its larvae are used to produce the valuable red colourant, cochineal, formerly found in drinks such as Campari.

During your visit, enjoy some time to wander around the garden and relax with a refreshment at the on-site café, before the return drive to the port.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves around 1½ hours of walking over some cobblestoned, uneven and gravel ground, including steps. Comfortable, flat 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).

En route to Reid's Hotel, you will enjoy a scenic drive to the viewpoint of Pico dos Barcelos for magnificent views over Funchal.

Built in the last century, Reid's Palace has always had a special place in the history of Madeira. Located on the outskirts of Funchal, perched on a cliff top headland overlooking the bay, Reid's is set in ten acres of lush semi tropical gardens, where hanging vines jostle for room with stunning displays of geraniums, hibiscus and salvias.

Upon arrival, you will be taken on a short walk through the Hotel gardens before tea is served, giving you an opportunity to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere.

The menu includes tea, scones and cakes.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The ground at the viewpoint is flat and cobbled, and the walk in the Hotel garden is over uneven ground with approximately 20 steps. There is a strict dress code at Reid's. Jeans, t-shirts, shorts, sports shoes or sandals are not permitted. Flat walking shoes are recommended. Tea will be served in a separate, private dining area.

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.

Embark on a drive through the breathtaking scenery of the New Forest to Beaulieu, one of England’s top visitor attractions. On the journey, you will pass by a quaint village and glimpse some of the wild ponies and livestock which the New Forest is famous for.

Beaulieu has many highlights including the National Motor Museum, an Ancient Abbey, Palace Manor House and a variety of gardens including a Victorian, kitchen and wilderness garden.

Within the fascinating National Motor Museum you can see some of the earliest examples of motoring from the 1890s through to legendary world-record breakers, such as Campbell’s jet powered Bluebird which broke the world land speed record in 1964. The museum has a 1930s street scene which shows the shops, vehicles and tradesmen of the period which will bring back memories of a bygone era.

During 2013 you'll be able to witness the fascinating BOND IN MOTION exhibition, which houses the world’s largest collection of original James Bond vehicles. Celebrating 50 years of Bond, with 50 vehicles from the films, this exhibition includes iconic on-screen favourites such as Goldfinger’s Rolls-Royce Phantom III, Zao’s Jaguar XKR loaded with weapons from Die Another Day and Bond’s Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace.

Admire the remains of the lovely 13th century Abbey with its timeless beauty and tranquil atmosphere. One of the buildings now houses a monastic exhibition which illustrates the daily life of the Cistercian Monks.

The grand Palace Manor House has been the stately home of the Montagu family since 1538. With its combination of 14th century Gothic and 19th century Scottish Baronial architecture, the House offers an insight into the past with many fascinating family treasures, portraits and photographs.


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 grounds are spread out over a vast area, however there is a monorail which connects the main attractions. There will be approximately three hours of free time to explore the Beaulieu Estate at your own leisure.

Driving east towards Camacha, admire the beautiful views over the bay of Funchal as you stop at Pináculo. Camacha is one of the largest inland villages of Madeira, and the centre of the wicker industry. At the warehouse and working showrooms, view the range of wicker work that is created, from baskets and chairs to elephants and giraffes.

From Camacha, head north to Pico de Arieiro, where, on a clear day, you can appreciate magnificent views over the north, south and centre of the island. A warm welcome awaits you at the Casa do Abrigo Restaurant at Poiso, where a traditional Madeiran luncheon will be served.

At the village of Monte, notable for its many fine properties and gardens, admire the view over Funchal. Its twin towered 18th century church is a landmark throughout the city, and is home to the statue of Our Lady of Monte, credited with being the source of many miracles.

For a true taste of Madeira, experience the exciting toboggan ride back into Funchal, ending in Livramento. The downhill ride in wicker sledges was formerly the established form of transport in Madeira, and your short ride will be something to remember. Back in Funchal, proceed to a wine lodge and complete your Madeira experience by tasting some fine Madeira wine, world famous for over 400 years.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Infants aged 3 years and younger are not permitted to participate in this tour due to restrictions on the Toboggan. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear, and follow the instructions of the toboggan drivers once seated. The toboggan is a popular tourist attraction and there may be queues before boarding. There are 74 steps at the Church of Our Lady of Monte, (optional visit, time permitting). There is slight uphill walk and some steps to reach the wine lodge.

With its many monuments, squares and avenues, Lisbon is a spectacular city to explore. You will stop at one of the most important riverside monuments, The Tower of Belem. A 16th century masterpiece dedicated to the discoveries and the church of Jeronimos Monastery.

Sintra was described by Lord Byron as 'Glorious Eden' for its dense and subtropical vegetation. You will have free time to explore the main square and the 15th century Royal Palace. There are local craft shops surrounding the square or just relax in one of the many cafés that spill out onto the pavements. Luncheon will be served in a local restaurant.

Heading into Cascais, you will have an opportunity to photograph the wonderful views over the bay at Praia Do Guincho. Discover the small houses that surround the bay dating back to the 20th century. You will have free time to browse the small picturesque streets to pick up a local souvenir before heading back towards Lisbon along the beautiful coastal road passing through Estoril. This has become a favourite beach resort for many over the past few years and is at the mouth of the Tagus River.

An excellent tour enabling you to visit a number of spectacular and historical sites all in one day.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately two hours of walking in total on the tour. Streets in Sintra are steep and cobbled.

The natural bathing pools surrounded by lava rocks and filled with crystal clear ocean water are undoubtedly the main attraction of Porto Moniz.

An hour’s drive takes you to the delightful village of Porto Moniz, a remote coastal village located at the north-westernmost point of Madeira. The natural pools are known for their excellent bathing conditions and you will have approximately three hours of free time to spend here and explore at your leisure. Relax, swim and sunbathe at the lava pools or simply soak up the breathtaking scenery as you wander around this charming village. You may also choose to browse the souvenir stores or relax with a drink or snack in one of the nearby restaurants or cafes.


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. This tour is non-guided and does not include any meals, refreshments or entrance fees. You are advised to carry Euros, and bring a bathing suit, towel and sunscreen. The entrance fee to the pools is approximately Euro 1.50 per person to be paid directly. Lockers, showers and changing rooms are available. The drive from Funchal passes through a number of tunnels.

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.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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.

A perfect combination. See the sights of the city centre and then sit back and enjoy a fascinating river cruise along the River Tagus, savouring light refreshments as you glide past an array of famous monuments.

A panoramic tour will show you Lisbon's renowned landmarks, including Pombal Square, Liberty Avenue, Black Horse Square and Rossio, the very heart of the city. See Baixa, the area rebuilt after the city's disastrous earthquake, and take in the spectacular scene from the viewpoint at King Edward VII Park.

Remember your camera, as you will want to capture the charm of Lisbon when viewed from the water. As your river cruise sets off, you will see the medieval part of the city. Cruise beneath the spectacular suspension bridge, reminiscent of the Golden Gate and photograph the monumental statue of Christ the King. The highlight of your tour will be a sail along the banks of the Belem area, where ancient caravels once set off on great voyages of discovery. The monuments here are spectacular - particularly when seen from the river and include the Monument to the Discoveries, the unique Belem Tower and the ornate, Gothic-style Jeronimos Monastery.


This excursion will operate by coach, boat and on foot. This tour involves very little walking. There are some steps to negotiate onto the boat. The river cruise duration is 1½ hours. The above itinerary may operate in reverse order.