Southampton to Brisbane - 59 nights, January 2014

The gaucho party is held at a beautiful country residence, in an old ranch on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. You will be welcomed with typical Argentinian specialities, such as empanadas and the traditionally excellent wines.

There will be time to explore and admire the scenic pampas, at this characteristic farmhouse, located around 70 miles outside Buenos Aires. Afterwards, luncheon will be served, with a complete Asado, (BBQ) to enjoy.

After the meal, a folkloric musical show will take place followed by Argentinian dances and songs. You will be invited to watch the horse show, demonstrating classic entertainment types where gauchos show their ability and skills dealing with horses.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is minimal walking on this tour; however there is some uneven ground at the ranch. The ranch outdoor programme, including the horse show, races and gaucho skills demonstration are subject to weather and terrain conditions. In case of rain during or before the visit, the outdoor part of the programme may have to be cancelled. There are several working dogs on the ranch. The order of highlights & activities may vary. The tour duration is dependent on traffic conditions.

With its wonderful bayside location the Vizcaya Museum is a delight to visit. Spend time with your guide walking through the many elaborately decorated and furnished rooms featuring antique arts and ornaments. The 15th to 19th century influences of French and Italian styles give this mansion an opulent and continental feel. Spend time in the beautifully kept gardens and admire the many plants and flowers within the 10 acres of grounds.

During your scenic drive you’ll head south and continue across Biscayne Bay to Miami Beach for views of the Art Deco District and fashionable South Beach. Cross over the impressive MacArthur Causeway, passing between Star Island and the Port of Miami, one of the busiest in the world. You will also pass along Miami’s famous Brickell Avenue, with its combination of modern office buildings alongside magnificent old bayside mansions.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. At the Museum there will be around 45 minutes of slow walking and standing. You will have a guided tour of the 1st floor of the mansion only. Access to the 2nd floor is by steps or lift if you wish to visit independently.

Discover the magnificent island of Moorea from its languid lagoon. Your guide will take you on a journey of the history of Oponohu and Cook’s bays whilst enjoying breathtaking scenery.

According to an ancient legend, these bays were created by the tail of a huge lizard and indeed Moorea translates to yellow (rea) lizard (moo).

Work up an appetite, in the lagoon’s turquoise waters, swim amongst the corals, tropical fish and stingrays.

Afterwards, a picnic will be prepared for you on the motu island whilst you relax on the beach or enjoy more snorkelling.


b>ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

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

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

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

This excursion operates by motorized boat. Participants must be physically fit, have snorkelling experience and be competent swimmers, able to cope with undercurrents. Boats are basic and offer little or no protection from the sun. The time spent at each area is weather and tide dependant. Please remember to wear your swim wear under your clothes, take a towel and sunscreen.Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Children under 10 cannot participate. Snorkelling equipment is not included.

Point Venus is named after the infamous Captain James Cook’s scientific observation mission of the Planet Venus. Point Venus was the landing place of the first European discoverers and where the only lighthouse in Tahiti can be found. You’ll stop to take in the historic sights and special island atmosphere of this location.

The splendid Blowhole of Arahoho is located 14 miles north east of Papeete in the district of Tiarei. This geological phenomenon has been fascinating visitors for centuries.Feel the power of the sea as it is pressed into an ancient lava tube, before exploding in a thunderous spray.

Visit the beautiful James Norman Hall Museum, dedicated to the American writer and author of the legendary best seller, ‘Mutiny on the Bounty’. This charming colonial-style home is sure to captivate your imaginative heart.

Your final stop on the tour will be to view at least one of the trio of falls that make up the Faaurumai Waterfalls in the north east of the island.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are recommended to take bottled water, as this cannot be provided on the tour. There is rough and uneven ground at the Blowhole, so sensible flat-soled shoes should be worn. Guests should take care when crossing the road at the Blowhole as the stop is on a bend.

You will take a panoramic drive through the city centre of Noumea in an air-conditioned coach. Along the way your guide will highlight various landmarks including the typically French architecture and South Pacific culture.

Your first stop will be Parc Forestier, the park overlooks the city of Noumea at an elevation of 548 feet and covers 85 acres, of which 20 acres are open to visitors. In addition to flora and fauna this Park has ponds and lakes, and is home to a large variety of wild and domestic birds.

In the company of your guide, set off at an easy pace along well-marked, level walkways through this peaceful sanctuary offering a natural look at the flora, together with the animal and bird-life of the South Pacific. Among the many species you may see is the Cagou, a flightless bird that is the symbol of New Caledonia, with a call often mistaken for that of a barking dog. After your tour, you’ll be offered a light refreshment before you return to the ship.



This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately two hour’s total walking on this tour. Please wear flat, comfortable shoes.

As you begin your panoramic island drive you will drive south through the main city of Moselle. You will see historical landmarks and colonial buildings before arriving in the more modern Baie de l’Orphelina with many luxurious yachts berthed in the marina.

Continue south and see two of Noumea’s spectacular beaches, the very European Baie des Citrons where clothing is optional and tree fringed Anse Vata which is a paradise for watersports lovers.

Ouen Toro Lookout is the perfect place to take photos and absorb stunning views of the world’s largest lagoon. From here, you’ll gain an excellent view of the bays and beaches, across the lagoon to small marine reserve islands with fringing coral reefs. Drive to Fauberg Blanchot, the old colonial quarter of the city to the Notre Dame du Pacifique, this lookout is dominated by a statue of Virgin Mary which is illuminated at night

Enjoy a taste of France as you visit a local restaurant where you will have the opportunity to sample a selection of French wines and cheeses before returning to the ship.


This excursion is mainly by coach with very little walking. The order of this tour may vary depending on local conditions.

Upon arrival at the Everglades, you’ll board your airboat for a 30 to 40 minute journey through this unique eco-system. With a flat bottom and large driving propeller at the stern, the airboat is able to skim the surface of the shallow waters and traverse this fascinating area. The native Seminole Indians gave the name ‘Sea of Grass’ to this region covered with sawgrass.

Within the Everlades, you'll see a vast array of wildlife including alligators, exotic birds and native fish while gliding over an endless river of grass. The area is known for its rich bird life of large wading birds like the Roseate Spoonbill, Wood Stork, Great Blue Heron and a variety of egrets. Throughout the journey, your experienced guide will introduce you to the unique eco-system of the park. This amazing area is also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles live side by side.

Following your airboat ride, you’ll have a short while to explore the park on your own, including a fascinating reptile exhibit and show. The show will provide you with an informative, interactive opportunity to become familiar with the features of the American alligators.



This tour will operate by coach and airboat. Guests must be able to negotiate one large step down to board the airboat. A gift shop and restrooms are available at the airboat facility. Please note airboat engines are very loud and foam earplugs will be provided.

The isolated archipelago of the Azores has a well-deserved reputation as being one of the best whale watching destinations in the world. Your boat adventure will begin a short walk away from your ship, where you will venture out into the open sea to search for these fascinating mammals.

The Azores attracts 24 species of cetaceans with Sperm Whales being the most common. Other whales that visit include the Humpback, Minky, Blue, Sei, Northern Bottlenose Whales and the Sowerby’s Beaked Whale. Regular encounters are made with the Pilot Whale, Orca Whale and Pseudorca Whale, as well as the Common, Bottlenose, Risso’s and Striped Dolphin.

Prior to setting off, you will be given a short briefing by one of the whale-watching experts. The crew on board are available during your excursion to answer any questions you may have on marine life and the rich history of the Azores.



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 boat and on foot. There is a 10 minute walk to the whale-watching base from the ship. This tour is not suitable for those who suffer with seasickness. Due to the swells that can be experienced in the area, it is recommended that all guests should take seasickness tablets with them as a precaution. This tour is dependent on weather conditions. Animal sightings are not guaranteed. Due to the nature of this tour, it is recommended that guests who are pregnant do not participate.

Take a leisurely drive through the city, where you will pass the Botanical Gardens, the historic Parliament House, the Treasury Building, City Hall and Old Customs House. See the South Bank Parklands and Cultural Centre, which combine the State's Art Gallery, Performing Arts Complex, Museum and Library in a splendid riverside setting. Before arriving at the Koala Sanctuary, stop at Mt Coot-tha Lookout to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, founded in 1927, is the world's oldest and largest Koala Sanctuary and contains over 130 koalas. Set in beautiful, natural surroundings, the sanctuary is also home to many other species of native Australian wildlife including Kangaroos, Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, Echidnas, Kookaburras, Emus, Cassowarys, various species of Reptiles and a Platypus.

You may wish to hold and have your photograph taken cuddling a Koala (additional expense payable locally), or hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies that roam freely around the grounds. There are daily talks, shows and presentations given throughout the visit to teach you more about these unusual animals.


This excursion will operate by coach. The visit to the Sanctuary is unguided therefore walking is at guests' own discretion. The terrain consists of pavements, a slated wooden boardwalk and compacted gravel/turf. Guests with colds or flu are advised not to handle the koalas. Please check on arrival at the sanctuary for the times of the daily shows.

This tour is perfect for adventurers who want to discover Moorea off the beaten tracks. Travelling in a 4x4 vehicle, you’ll see inside the volcanic craters which created the island, explore the pineapple plantations and the lush rainforest landscapes.

Resembling a star shaped garden, Moorea is agriculturally rich with vanilla, bananas, grapefruits and lemons. Renowned for its agricultural school, children travel from the outer islands to attend. As you drive across this large plantation, your guide will describe the flora and fauna of Moorea.

Continue your exploration to visit a marae, a sacred place which served both religious and social purposes in ancient Polynesian societies. Enjoy stunning views over the island at the Belvedere lookout.

At magic mountain, follow a small path surrounded by grapefruits, lemons and oranges, before emerging to one of the most beautiful views over the island.


This excursion will operate by 4x4 vehicle 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 under 12 may not participate. The order of highlights may vary. There is a short but steep hike to the mountain viewpoint, therefore we recommend you wear footwear suitable for hiking over rough, uneven and wet ground. Please bring water, hat and sunscreen.

Board your catamaran at the pier side and travel along the Beagle Channel, heading out of Ushuaia Bay. The first island to be visited is Birds Island where the incessant comings and goings of Imperial Cormorants welcome you into this magical realm of islands, landscapes and wildlife of the Beagle Channel.

Many sea birds may be spotted at any time during the cruise so keeping your eyes peeled and awareness sharp is important. Continue onto an island full of lazy South American Sea Lions sunbathing on the rocky outcrops mixed with the very active and hysterical Southern Fur Seals.

Leaving those lively colonies, visit Les Eclaireurs Archipelago, where the famous Lighthouse of the area is located. The catamaran will precede eastwards reaching Martillo Island, where the penguin colony is situated. Magellan Penguins are a delight to watch from the comfort of your boat as they waddle along the beach and swim around. A naturalist guide narrates during the trip and on the way back, Puerto Williams, Puerto Almanza and Remolino Ranch can be seen.


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 catamaran. Sightings of all wildlife mentioned cannot be guaranteed. Early booking is recommended as space is limited on this popular tour. There is minimal walking on this tour but comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and a wind/waterproof jacket are strongly recommended. Depending on the availability of a berth, a 400 to 600 metre walk might be necessary from the gangway to the catamaran.

Enjoy a scenic drive to Gun Hill Signal Station, located in the parish of St George, which provides a magnificent and captivating view of the entire island. The Signal Station was restored and landscaped by the Barbados National Trust and now houses a collection of military memorabilia.

Afterwards, continue to Orchid World which spans over six acres of land, some 800 feet above sea level. Meander your way through the beautiful outcrops of coral, rock gardens, cool shady gullies and ponds. You will be fascinated by the beautiful orchid plants growing in mid-air with their roots completely free of any soil.

Sunbury Plantation House dates back to 1660 and possesses one of the country's superior collections of antiques. The cellars house a unique collection of antique carriages, as well as many items used in the domestic life of the plantation. In the extensively landscaped grounds you will see fine authentic examples of old carts and machinery used in the last century to cultivate the land.

During your tour, you will be offered a fruit or rum punch refreshment.


This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. This tour involves approximately one hour of walking over some uneven and inclined surfaces, including steps. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Order of highlights may vary.

Sit back and relax as you take in the sights during the hour-long drive, passing Fijian villages, tropical rainforest, mountains and flat pastures en route to Pacific Harbour.

A warm welcome is waiting for you at the Arts Village of Fiji at Pacific Harbour. Your arrival is heralded by the sound of a drum, beaten by a Fijian warrior and the traditional blowing of a conch shell. Enjoy a cooling drink as you make your way to the amphitheatre. Here, you’ll witness a spectacular performance by the Fijian Firewalkers, enchanting Fijian ‘meke’ dancers and performers. From the comfort of your seat you can see the history and culture of the island being brought to life.

After the show, stroll around the exotic tropical gardens, talk to the villagers and see the handicraft demonstrations. You’ll also have time to browse the souvenir shops for interesting mementoes of your visit.



This tour is operated by coach and on foot. There are steps to negotiate at the amphitheatre. Guests are reminded to take local currency if wishing to purchase items at the village.

Departing from the pier, your narrated scenic drive will take you through the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s commercial district, past the beautiful white sand beaches and deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and along the trendy boutique area of Las Olas Boulevard. A short photo stop will be made to capture the local scenes.

Next, it’s all aboard the paddle-wheeled ‘Carrie B’ for a cruise along the inter-coastal waterways. Discover why Fort Lauderdale is often called the ‘Venice of America’ as your captain points out the homes and mansions of the rich and famous. Your vessel features both open and enclosed decks for your comfort, as well as a snack bar, where you can purchase refreshments.

This excursion will operate by coach, boat and on foot. The amount of walking during the downtown stop is at guests’ own discretion. Restrooms are available on board the ‘Carrie B’.

This unbelievable experience will take you out on the lagoon, up to Taapuna Pass, where surfers play with on waves, before taking to the high seas and sailing to Fishermen’s Bay where a family of Spinner Dolphins love to play.

You may have the pleasure to see these beautiful marine mammals jump out of the water and will leave you spellbound with their leaps and acrobatics.

Afterwards, see the famous surfing spot of Sapinus before heading back to the lagoon, where you’ll be met with a refreshing drink.

Weather permitting, some free time will be given in order to snorkel and observe the marine fauna as well as seeing 3 wrecks.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, passengers 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.



This excursion operates by boat. Participants must be physically fit, have snorkelling experience, be competent swimmers and able to cope with undercurrents. Boats are basic and offer little or no protection from the sun. Masks and snorkels are provided, however fins are not. Please remember to wear your swimwear under your clothes, take a towel and sunscreen.Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Pregnant women and children under 12 cannot participate. The boat takes 12 people.