Southampton to San Francisco - 89 nights, January 2014

Enjoy a panoramic drive through the city centre and the park ‘Place Cocotier’, which winds its way up to the FOL lookout point for a photograph stop where you will see the rolling hills of the city, the main harbour and your ship docked at the passenger terminal.

Next, you’ll continue along the picturesque Promenade Pierre Vernier, and up to Ouen Toro lookout. From this vantage point at the tip of the peninsular, which is also home to a dignified World War II memorial, you’ll have an excellent view of the bays and beaches, across the lagoon to the small marine reserve islands with their fringing coral reefs.

Your last stop is the newly refurbished ‘State of the Art’ new Aquarium of Noumea, where water is pumped from a nearby lagoon. Naturally lit tanks house a variety of marine life ranging from dainty sea horses, colourful tropical fish to sea turtles, stingrays and reef sharks. Pass through the ‘black light room’ where you can discover outstanding fluorescent coral and you‘ll see a live, nautilus shellfish, a species which have survived unchanged for millions of years.

Return to your ship via the Orphelinat’s Bay and Port Moselle.

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour’s total walking on this tour. US$ and AUD$ will not be accepted in the Aquarium gift store.

From Brisbane you will head south to the famous Gold Coast, where you will find Q1 Resort, one of the world’s tallest residential towers. A stop will be made to allow you to take the elevator up 77 floors to the Skypoint, Australia's only beachside observation deck, located at the top. Rising a sheer 755 feet into the sky you will be able to take in the 360 degree views of the Gold Coast that extend from the surf to the hinterland and beyond. After the amazing views from above, rejoin your coach and listen as your guide points out many of the interesting city sights before arriving at the Palazzo Versace.

Palazzo Versace is the evolution of the Versace lifestyle, a place of Renaissance splendour and elegance in a location of breathtaking beauty. In a spectacular waterfront setting, every aspect of architecture, ambience, furnishings and ornamentation reflects the level of opulence once confined to the grand hotels of Europe. Enjoy a delicious high tea of scones with jam and cream, selected cakes and finger sandwiches together with your choice of tea or coffee in one of the hotel’s stylish rooms.

After your high tea, you will have free time to explore the boutique shopping strip of Marina Mirage, which is located next to Palazzo Versace. Alternatively you may take a stroll along the beautiful beach front.


This excursion will operate by coach. Walking is at guests' own discretion. There will be approximately 45 minutes of free time at Marina Mirage. This excursion is not recommended for guests who do not like heights.

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.

This spectacular drive takes you all the way to Pencarrow Station and beautiful Wellington Harbour’s easternmost point. The Storm Coast scenic route follows the harbour shoreline passing Petone, where Wellington’s first settlers landed. As you drive along this dramatic coastline, you will see quaint coastal villages, bays and hear tales of shipwrecks. View Pencarrow Station, one of the earliest settled sheep and cattle stations in the Wellington area before continuing on to Wellington’s hidden lakes, New Zealand’s oldest lighthouse and historic Maori sites.

One of Wellington’s best kept secrets is Pencarrow Lodge. The Lodge sits near the entrance to Wellington Harbour and offers spectacular vistas across Cook Strait to the South Island’s Kaikoura Ranges. Savour these panoramic views whilst enjoying refreshments of tea, coffee and snacks.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 30 minutes of total walking over flat paths. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Your guide and local movie expert from the University of California is about to take you on a journey of movie magic and trivia.

Drive by the St. Francis Hotel, with the first talking picture: The Jazz Singer. They say, “San Francisco has always had a love affair with the movies, and it began when they were silent.” Many of the greatest names in movie history made films in the city by the bay. Buster Keaton created films here and we see him in Daydreams, flying off the back of a cable car.

Later, as you go through the Barbary Coast, you will see younger versions of John Wayne, Erroll Flynn, even Mae West, singing; “I’m just an Occidental Woman in an Oriental Mood for Love!” from Klondike Annie. See Alice Faye sing; Hello Frisco, Hello from that film.

Over 80 of the best film clips highlighting San Francisco will be shown on screens on your coach as you pass by many of the actual filming locations. Some of the many films included in this unique tour are Vertigo, Dirty Harry, Foul Play and Mrs Doubtfire.

No film tour would be complete without a stop at Mel’s Drive-in (used in the film Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner?) where you will take a short break for milkshakes or sundaes. A tour for real film buffs and not to be missed if you enjoy the nostalgia of the movies.

This excursion will operate by coach. Spaces are limited, therefore early booking is recommended.

The Bay of Islands is home to the Ngapuhi, New Zealand’s largest tribal Maori group. This eco, spiritual and educational experience will provide a rare and unique insight into the ancient customs, rituals and traditions of this fascinating Polynesian culture.

Your Maori Warrior host will welcome you at Waitangi Wharf, where a safety briefing will be given before boarding your ornate 50 foot Waka Taua (Maori War Canoe). The tribal members will show you traditional paddling techniques, Waka manoeuvres and chants, whilst you absorb the breathtaking beauty of the Waitangi River eco-systems and the passing flora and fauna.

As you glide up the peaceful and tranquil tidal estuaries of the Waitangi River, your Maori host will share personal tribal and family histories from an ancient past. The Ngapuhi tribe have a traditional knowledge and their storytelling skills are legendary.

With the splendour of panoramic views, vibrant and stunning colours from the native forest stretching the length of the river banks and beyond, the voyage culminates with the arrival in the pool of the sacred and spiritual waterfall of Haruru Falls. The magic of this place is brought to life by the skilful oratory of the Maori storytellers.

As you paddle back along the river, you’ll see the family Marae, a sacred shrine of worship, where some of the local tribal members will greet you as you pass. You’ll return to port with a deeper understanding of the Maori culture and an experience that will leave a lasting impression.


This excursion will operate by traditional Maori War Canoe. Each canoe takes between 16 and 30 people. Please wear soft soles shoes that you don’t mind getting wet as you may need to step into the water to board the canoes.

This exclusive tour begins with a drive to the picturesque Napa Valley, America's most well known wine making region. Visit the Clos Pegase Estate Winery, where art and wine come together in a unique setting. Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful sculpture gardens and art-laden caves during the tour. A behind the scenes look at the production facilities provides an interesting insight into the world of wine making. Then enjoy a private tasting of their award winning wines as you appreciate the intricacies of the wine making process.

Lunch will follow at the world-renowned Culinary Institute of America. This grand historic landmark was once the Christian Brothers Winery and now home to the famous Greystone Restaurant. Enjoy a three-course gourmet meal prepared in the open show kitchens.

The day ends fittingly at one of Napa's most enchanting destinations, the exclusive Domaine Carneros Winery of Taittinger fame. This spectacular estate features an elegant chateau inspired by Champagne Taittinger’s historic Chateau de la Marquetterie in France. Entering via the grand staircase, you’ll enjoy inspiring vineyard views on either side, with beautiful gardens below. Here you’ll see a completely different process as you learn how sparkling wine is made. Following your orientation, delight in a special tasting in the exclusive private dining room with a local wine expert.

This exclusive tour has limited availability, therefore early booking is highly recommended.

According to ancient legend, the two magnificent bays of Moorea were created by the tail of a huge lizard, and this gave the island its name – yellow (rea) lizard (moo).

Explore both of these famous bays, Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, as you sail into the lagoons. Take in the dramatic scenery of the island from the ocean, as well as the rainbow colours of fish living in the clear waters.

Your guide will endeavour to find some of the magnificent stingrays that live in the turquoise lagoons that surround Moorea, and you will be able to see how friendly and gentle these beautiful creatures are. Your guide will feed the rays in the water, and you can watch from the water or the boat as they happily play in the shallow waters.

Take a dip in the crystal clear waters, before sailing back.

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 boat. The itinerary of this tour, as well as the type of boat used, will be decided by the Captain, and is dependent on the local weather conditions. These alterations will be made to ensure your safety and comfort during the tour. Please note that this is not a snorkelling tour, therefore snorkelling equipment is not provided. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and a towel. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. Spaces are limited, therefore early booking is recommended.

In the late 19th century the village of Buenos Aires was becoming an immigrant city, where frustrated and melancholic Europeans displaced gaucho rustics, retreated gradually to the ever more distant countryside. The children of those immigrants would become the first generation of ‘porteños’ (locals) and became the catalyst of the Tango song summarising the new urban style.

Permeated with nostalgia over a disappearing way of life, the Tango expressed the apprehensions and anxieties of the people at the time during an unsettled period in history.

During this unforgettable afternoon, you will have the opportunity to admire all the qualities of the Tango in its different expressions with Tango dancers and singers accompanied by an orchestra. Get to know this amazing country through its traditional dance, music and local cuisine.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is minimal walking on this tour. A glass of wine, a soft drink or coffee is included with luncheon; additional beverages are available for purchase.

Under the Miradouro da Vista do Rei, from which point King Charles the first of Portugal contemplated this impressive panorama in 1901, lie two volcanic lakes - the Green and the Blue Lake, separated by a narrow bridge. Together the two lakes cover an area of 482 hectares and they are 18 metres deep at their greatest depth. You will have the opportunity to admire these lakes from above.

On the shores of the Blue Lake is the village of Sete Cidades; enigmatic in its own name (Seven Cities) and surrounded by the dark forest-covered walls of the Caldeira. The impressive Caldeira of Sete Cidades dominates the entire region of Sete Cidades, which with its seven miles diameter, is the most spectacular volcanic scene in the Azores. A brief stop will be made for you to admire the Santiago Lake, inaccessibly situated at the bottom of an extinct crater and unique for its rare beauty.

You will be served a selection of the best Azorean wines and cheeses in a leading hotel in Ponta Delgada. The hotel veranda overlooks the harbour bay and offers pleasant views of the city's port and marina. You will have the chance to shop for local handicrafts at the hotel's gift shop.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The views at the lake are dependent on the weather conditions on the day. A little walking is involved over rough ground and cobblestones. Comfortable, flat, non slip walking shoes are recommended. There are some steps to negotiate at the hotel.

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.


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 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.

Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a unique way to view the world famous harbour area. Your qualified guide will lead your small group up the eastern arch, through steel catwalks, to the summit. On reaching the top of the bridge, you will be able to stop to celebrate your moment of glory. Take in the unrivalled panorama of Sydney Harbour and its famous surroundings 400 feet below, before descending down the western arch. Back on the ground and invigorated by your ascent, you will receive a souvenir photograph of your climb.

Continue on foot to The Rocks, Sydney's oldest village, for a brief walking tour. The Rocks is the heart of the metropolis and the area where the city's first settlers hammered together a primitive village. As you tread through this centuries-old district, discover notable buildings, classic terrace houses and sandstone cottages. Stop for refreshments at a traditional Australian pub to celebrate your epic achievement.


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 on foot. The tour is recommended only for those in good physical condition. Children must be over 12 years old to participate. No loose items of clothing are allowed on the Bridge – lockers are provided. Guests are required to undergo an alcohol breath test. Your visit will start with a safety briefing before being fitted with protective suits and harnessed to safety rails by sliding cables. Personal cameras, mobile phones and video equipment are not permitted on the climb. The bridge climb takes approximately 3½ hours to complete. Flat, enclosed walking shoes are recommended.

ZEALANDIA: The Karori Sanctuary Experience, winner of the 2008 ‘Tourism Industry Award for Conservation in Action’, is a unique eco-attraction and the ultimate urban nature experience. It is the most accessible of New Zealand’s celebrated mainland conservation islands and is a safe haven for some of New Zealand’s most iconic and endangered native animals, including Tuatara, Little Spotted Kiwi, Saddleback, Hihi and Giant Weta.

The Sanctuary comprises one square mile of regenerating lowland forest and wetlands protected by a unique five mile predator-proof fence, specially designed to exclude non-native mammals ranging from hedgehogs to possums.

You’ll have around 2½ hours’ free time to explore this interesting conservation area at your own leisure.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The Sanctuary is wheelchair accessible. There is a café and extensive gift shop on site.

Experience the natural wonders, stunning scenery and learn about the cultural significance of this unique part of New Zealand, on this spectacular cruise to Cape Brett and the iconic ‘Hole in the Rock’.

The cruise will whisk you away through the outer islands of the Bay of Islands to the beautiful lighthouse on weather-beaten Cape Brett, passing secluded bays and sandy beaches on the islands along the way. From here you will travel to Motukokako and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’ where, if conditions are suitable, the skilful Captain will navigate through the hole shaped slowly over time by the wind and waves, and on to Grand Cathedral Cave.

After the excitement of passing through the gap, your cruise continues at a more leisurely pace. Explore the inner islands and identify the abundance of birds and sea life that inhabit the area with the help of the knowledgeable crew.

On the return journey you could view the visual displays which contain local natural and cultural history information or simply sit back, relax and take advantage of the onboard bar.


This excursion will operate by catamaran. There is a step into the catamaran. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Beverages purchased from the bar are at the passengers’ own expense.

Leave the city of Ushuaia behind, as you journey northeast through the Olivia River Valley, where stunning valleys and vistas are waiting to be discovered. After a short drive, you will arrive at a ‘nunatak’, a warm cabin where rubber boots and instructions will be provided before your trek starts.

Hike through the thick forest of Lengas trees, a typical tree of the region, to reach the Alvear Mountains, where the Five Cascades will appear. During your trek, the guides will explain all about the local flora and fauna as Tierra del Fuego is well-known for its birdlife. Discover how beavers make their dams, and take advantage of the excellent photograph opportunities at every turn.

Be rewarded with the unique opportunity of being immersed in the beauty of nature, surrounded by silence and peacefulness and providing a refreshing break for both mind and soul.

Return to the cabin for well-earned refreshments of tea, coffee or mate cocido, a national drink served with sandwiches and apple pie.


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

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

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

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests must be in good physical condition as there is approximately two hours of walking over uneven terrain. You are advised to bring a bottle of water with you. It is essential that you wear comfortable walking shoes, wind and rainproof layered clothing in order to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion. Knee-high rubber boots will be provided in different sizes if the weather dictates. Long sleeves, long trousers, warm socks, sunscreen and gloves are recommended. Minimum age for participation is 15 years.