Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires - 16 nights, January 2014

The city of Buenos Aires is open and spacious with an abundance of parkland and elegant shops. Drive down one of the widest boulevards in the world, the 9 de Julio, past the Obelisk commemorating 100 years of the first national government.

A stop will be made for photographs at the Plaza de Mayo bordered by the Casa Rosada, the Metropolitan Cathedral with the mausoleum of San Martin, and the Cabildo the colonial town hall. Continue onto Caminito, located in colourful La Boca where the first Italian immigrants settled in 1851, for approximately 30 minutes of free time.

No visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without visiting the remarkable and unique Recoleta neighbourhood, where you will find the city's aristocratic cemetery with Evita Peron's tomb. Here you will have some free time to explore or visit the tomb if you wish. Round off your tour with a drive through the fashionable Palermo Quarter, with its exclusive houses, lakes and parks.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is minimal walking on this tour; however there are some steps at the Cathedral and Recoleta Cemetery. The order of highlights may vary and the tour duration may change slightly depending on traffic conditions. The stop at May Square may be cancelled or replaced with a “drive through”, depending on traffic conditions and political situations.

Your first stop on this magnificent Miami grand tour is a visit to the Everglades National Park, for an exhilarating airboat ride through the grassy waters. The Everglades’ natural beauty and wildlife reveals itself during a 30 minute exploration of this vast wilderness. Keep an eye out for the numerous native birds and fish, and perhaps a few alligators, which inhabit this curious corner of the country.
<>br> Heading downtown to the heart of Miami, enjoy the unique flavour and ambiance of a typical Cuban lunch served at a local restaurant.

Then it is all aboard the ‘Island Queen’ for an unforgettable 1½ hour sightseeing cruise around Biscayne Bay. Make sure you have your camera to capture the “Rich & Famous” on Palm Island, Hibiscus Island and Star Island.

You’ll re-join your coach and take a panoramic drive through the Art Deco District and fashionable South Beach, before returning to the port.

This excursion will operate by coach, airboat and on foot. The itinerary may operate in reverse.

Take in the beach views as you travel along the Spring Garden Highway towards the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. Once inside the Reserve you are in the animal’s kingdom as some of the creatures are free to wander as they please. It is a community devoted to man's love and respect for nature as well as to research and conservation. These animals are not tame, and unexpected noises may frighten them away. Stroll though the beautiful mahogany woods or take a seat on one of the benches and see what comes your way. Watch where you step, as you are certain to see some of the numerous tortoises that roam the reserve.

This tropical haven is home to many animals, reptiles, birds and of course the green monkey. Look out for these little creatures that have saved thousands of lives and are responsible for 70% of the world’s polio vaccines.

Refreshments will be offered before taking the return drive to Bridgetown, passing through sleepy country villages enjoying the scenery.


This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. Guests are advised that ground within the Reserve is uneven. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. Please note that the animals do not all roam freely, they are all part of an ongoing conservation programme, and some are housed and caged.

This simple transfer will take you to Sawgrass Mills shopping outlet, to enjoy around 3½ - 4 hours of free time.

The mall offers a variety of stores including Off Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet, Last Cal; The clearance Centre from Neiman Marcus, Disney’s Character Premiere, Kenneth Cole, Tommy Hilfiger Company Store: Mikasa Factory Store, Banana Republic Factory Store, Calvin Klein Outlet Store, Gap Outlet, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store and many more. There are also plenty of popular eateries and restaurants to purchase a refreshment or snack during your visit.

This excursion will operate by coach.Guests are recommended to wear flat comfortable walking shoes, credit cards are widely accepted. Maps will be provided upon arrival. A briefing will be provided prior to departure regarding your pick up location, which will also be marked on the map. Coupon books are available at the Customer Service Desks, also marked on the map.

Setting off from the port, enjoy a drive through the bustling capital of Bridgetown, passing by the parliament houses and the 1813 statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson, before arriving at the historic Garrison area.

‘The Garrison’, as it is known locally, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the base and headquarters for the British West Indies regiment in Barbados. Today it houses the Barbados Defence Force, including the Coast Guard Force and Cadet Corps. A guided tour will show you the George Washington House and the many well preserved 18th and 19th century military buildings. There will also be an opportunity to browse in the gift shop.

Afterwards, a brief drive will take you to St Ann’s Fort where a soft drink or rum punch refreshment will be served. You will also experience a reenactment of the changing of the sentry, performed by the Zoave Band and Garrison Soldiers, before the return drive to the port.

This excursion will operate by bus and on foot. This tour involves around one hour of walking over varying terrain, which includes some gravel surfaces. There are steps to negotiate at George Washington House and St Ann’s Fort. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Cruise through an amazing undersea world at depths of 50 to 150 feet as you embark on a voyage of discovery aboard the Atlantis Submarine. Atlantis is one of the premier attractions in the Caribbean, providing a unique exposure to a fascinating underwater world.

You will board a ferry for the short transfer out to the dive site to join the Atlantis Submarine. The colour and abundance of exotic fish, spectacular sponge gardens and fascinating coral formations will be unveiled outside your porthole.

Atlantis is maintained at a cool air-conditioned temperature and sea level pressure. Experienced crew will point out and describe the sights in detail as tropical fish pass within touching distance of your porthole.



This excursion will operate by bus, boat and submarine. Children under four are not permitted to participate and all participating children must be at least three feet tall. This tour involves very little walking, however guests must be able to negotiate an 11 step ladder into and out of the Atlantis Submarine. The Submarine dive lasts approximately 50 minutes. The views underwater are subject to local sea conditions on the day.

Sit back, relax and enjoy your ride to Peñarol station by steam train, whilst your guide explains about the history of train transportation in Uruguay to the sounds of Tango music. After your interesting steam train ride, your awaiting coach will take you on a highlights tour of the city of Montevideo.

Drive past the Prado neighbourhood, home to one of the oldest parks in the city which hosts the famous sculpture La Diligencia (the stage coach). You will have the opportunity to stop and admire this celebrated piece before continuing on past the monuments to the last Charruas Indians. Enjoy a photograph stop at the Congress building before continuing to the Batlle & Ordoñez Park, view the Obelisk, La Carreta (Covered Wagon) monument and the Football Stadium.

Explore the residential area of Carrasco stopping at Plaza Virgilio to view the monument dedicated to the Fallen Soldiers of the Navy and enjoy excellent views of the city. Driving onwards take in the views of the striking coastline and its beaches.

Your scenic return drive will take you into the Old City, where you will have time at Independence Square at the centre of which stands a monument dedicated to Uruguay’s national hero, José Gervasio Artigas, also known as ‘the father of Uruguayan independence.’


This excursion will operate by coach, steam train and on foot. Guests are required to negotiate several steps to embark the steam train. This tour may return slightly earlier than scheduled if traffic is light. The order of sights may vary.

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.

Your transfer will take you from the port, heading through Bridgetown and along the kaleidoscopic South Coast to the Barbados Golf Club.

The 18-hole course spreads out over 6,905 yards among the rolling hills of the Barbados countryside. Two lakes enhance play on five of the holes and create the dramatic 'Amen Corner' on holes 15 and 16, while a series of coral waste bunkers add to the excitement.

When you have finished your game you can head for the clubhouse for some post-game analysis, before the return transfer to the port.


This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. Green fees, clubs (six per person), a shared cart and roundtrip transportation are included. Luncheon is not included. The appropriate golf attire must be worn, shirts, polo shirts, long trousers or ¾ length shorts. Golf shoes are recommended, however trainers are permitted. US Dollars and local currency accepted for purchases.

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’.

Step aboard your boat for an unforgettable adventure. Set sail along the island’s coast towards a sheltered bay for a wonderful experience with some of Barbados’ marine inhabitants. This area is known for its population of Green and Hawksbill Turtles, who enjoy the temperate calm waters off the west coast. Take this opportunity to snorkel with the graceful wild sea turtles and watch the crew feed these endangered creatures – an underwater camera is a must.

Take a dip in the warm, inviting waters from the boat; alternatively you may choose to simply relax on deck and enjoy the sunshine.

All too soon it will be time to depart and, as you cruise along the island’s west coast, the crew will serve refreshments from the open bar.



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 will operate by motorised boat. Please wear your swimwear, sunscreen and take a towel. You will be required to remove shoes whilst on board the boat. Snorkelling and turtle sightings are subject to favourable conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Snorkel equipment is provided. Children under six may not participate. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. Before you book this excursion your must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

The Seminole Indians originally called this immense wilderness ‘Pahay Okee’, meaning ‘grassy water’, and today it is commonly known as Florida’s ‘River of Grass’. The Everglades’ natural beauty and wildlife reveals itself to you during a 30-minute airboat ride into this vast wilderness. Keep an eye out for the numerous native birds and fish, and perhaps a few alligators, which inhabit this curious corner of the country.

Enjoy a 30 minute narrated tram ride through the lush natural surroundings and sub-tropical botanical gardens. Free time is then afforded for you to explore other areas of the gardens such as the ‘free-flight’ aviary and the homestead of Floyd and Jane Wray, the original owners of the estate. Browse the gift shop, relax in the café or daydream under a sweeping Banyan tree.

This excursion will operate by coach, airboat and on foot. This tour involves limited walking, however guests must walk 50 yards to board the airboat and negotiate a large step onto the boat. Walking at the Gardens is along paved, flat pathways. Please note airboat engines are very loud and foam earplugs will be provided.

Enjoy a brief South Beach orientation, as your guide points out the areas of interest, which you may wish to visit during your free time. Admire the marvellous architectural style of Art Deco, dating back to the early 1900’s; once predominant all over Miami. Then it’s time to enjoy this vibrant City on your own. Why not take a leisurely stroll along South Beach, and sample some of the fabulous cuisine in one of the many beautiful restaurants along Ocean Drive. Alternatively, browse the boutiques and shops along Lincoln Road.

This excursion will operate by coach. Dependant on traffic, the transfer time from Port Everglade is approximately 45 minutes. Your drop off point will be on the corner of Ocean Drive and 5th Street for 2¾-3 hours of free time.

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.

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.