Buenos Aires to San Francisco - 63 nights, January 2014

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.

Your drive will take you on a tour of this visually stunning fairy-tail destination, where relaxation is encapsulated. Being such a compact island with no towns and a population of just 12,000, you will get to see the jagged volcanic mountains, tropical landscapes and the white sandy beaches. Stopping at a pineapple plantation, you’ll learn about this renowned and significant resource to Moorea.

Described as one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the world, the Belvedere Lookout is a must for all visitors to Moorea. Located at the centre of this heart-shaped island, from here you will be able to see the crystal clear waters of the famous Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay, with the sacred Rotui Mountain dividing them.

For a glimpse of past Tahitian culture, visit a marae, one of the ancient temples used in Moorea for worship. Tahitians take great pride in the black pearls that are produced in their waters, and a short shopping stop at ‘Le Petit Village’ will give you time to look at these, as well as other local produce.


This excursion operates by coach and on foot. The order of highlights may vary. This tour includes up to 30 minutes of walking at the viewpoints.

From Tauranga, you’ll travel through Te Puke, the heart of the kiwi fruit country, past beautiful rugged countryside and dense forest before reaching the famous geothermal area of Rotorua.

On arrival at the Te Puia Thermal Reserve, you’ll be welcomed by a Maori guide before being led on a walk through the thermal area past bubbling mud pools, natural springs and sprouting geysers. Further along, at the Maori Model Village, you will be immersed in Maori culture as you watch the Maori carvers and weavers at work.

After a short journey, you’ll board an eight-seater aerial gondola for a leisurely scenic ride up Mount Ngongotaha to the Skyline Restaurant. As you gently ascend, you’ll be rewarded with a 180° stunning panorama of Rotorua, the surrounding geothermal areas and lakes. At the summit, enjoy a delicious buffet luncheon in spectacular surroundings whilst being entertained by a Maori cultural performance. The show includes many traditional action songs, including the haka, a fierce, challenging dance, which is accompanied by a chant.

After luncheon, a visit will be made to the multi-award winning Agrodome Show, where you’ll witness an exciting and unique live show featuring 19 different breeds of sheep. An interesting and entertaining commentary is given, along with displays of sheep dogs working and sheep shearing.

On the return journey, you’ll have the chance to sit back and reflect on your day’s memorable experiences.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a total of 30 minutes’ walking on level, paved paths. The journey to Rotorua is approximately 1½ hours each way. Comfortable, enclosed footwear, bottled water and a sweater are recommended.

Step aboard the 170 x 150 foot ‘Ruler of the Sea’ catamaran for a sail along the Hawaiian coast. The Pacific Ocean is the backdrop for you to soak up the views of world famous Waikiki and Honolulu City while watching the Hawaiian sun set below the horizon.

A traditional local buffet style dinner will be served onboard before a captivating Polynesian show. Complete with dancers, drummers and chanters the performance will make this an unforgettable experience. After the show, you'll have the opportunity to show off your dancing skills, whilst embracing the chance to join the ‘Ali’i hana’ (family) as you enjoy a leisurely sail back to the pier.


This excursion will operate by catamaran. A visible sunset cannot be guaranteed. One drink is included and additional drinks will be available to purchase onboard. Onboard the catamaran there are 9 steps to reach the upper deck./strong>

The Taieri Gorge train, Dunedin's prestigious and historic train, will make a special journey to the quayside to pick you up for this picturesque return ride to Pukerangi. It will take you through the rugged and spectacular Taieri River Gorge, across vast wrought iron viaducts and through tunnels carved by hand more than 100 years ago.

A picnic-style luncheon and complimentary beverages of local beer, sparkling wine, fruit juices, tea, coffee and mineral water will be served onboard as you listen to the informative commentary and watch the beautiful scenery pass by. There will be photo stops at vantage points along the way to enable you to capture on camera some of the striking landscape.

On the return journey, the train will stop at the picturesque Dunedin Railway Station before returning to the ship.


This excursion will operate by train. Please be advised that the train is not air-conditioned and there are four steps to negotiate to embark and disembark the train. Guests who wish to explore the city of Dunedin can leave the tour at Dunedin Railway Station, however you will be responsible for making your own way back to the ship via the shuttle bus.

The first stop on your orientation of the Fijian capital Suva is the Fiji Museum, which contains a fascinating exhibit on the cannibal era, along with the rudder from Captain Bligh’s Bounty and other displays of ancient pottery, double-war canoes and much more.

As you continue your scenic drive through the city you’ll pass Government House, the official residence of the President of the Republic of Fiji, Saint Giles Hospital, The Australian Embassy and Tamavua Heights for a panoramic view of the Suva Harbour.

Your friendly guide will point out the National Sporting Centre, site of the 2003 South Pacific Games, the University of The South Pacific, Parliament House Building and the British and United States Embassy.

Refreshments will be offered at a local hotel, and some time will be allowed for shopping within the city business centre.



This tour will operate by coach and on foot. Passengers are advised that much of the sightseeing will be done from the coach, but walking at the Museum and during the shopping time is to be expected.

Captain Cook named Cape Kidnappers after Maori warriors tried to kidnap his Tahitian interpreter. This southern promontory in Hawke’s Bay is home to over 1,000 nesting pairs of gannets, which may be viewed at the Plateau colony. Your walk takes you within ten feet of the colony. A second colony may also be viewed at nearby Black Reef. In addition to the gannets, Cape Kidnappers offers sweeping views of Hawke’s Bay.

Refreshments are served at a local farm, before you head back towards Napier for a narrated drive through Napier’s Art Deco District.


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 4WD. The tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under twelve may not participate.

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, overlooking the Bay of Islands, is New Zealand's pre-eminent historic site. It was here on 6th February 1840, that the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between Maori and the British Crown.

The Treaty Grounds are part of the 1000 acre Waitangi National Trust Estate, which was given to the nation by Lord and Lady Bledisloe in 1932. Enjoy an informative guided tour of the grounds including The Treaty House - one of New Zealand's oldest and most visited historic homes, Te Whare Runanga – a fully carved Maori Meeting House and the Waitangi Visitor Centre - with its audio visual show outlining the history of Waitangi and the Bay of Islands.

You will also be able to observe the impressive Ngatokimatawhaorua, one of the world's largest Maori ceremonial war canoes, spanning some 117 feet in length and made from three giant Kauri trees. It is still launched every year on the 6th February for Waitangi Day.

Leaving Waitangi, you will travel through beautiful countryside to Puketona Junction and Kerikeri where citrus fruit orchards dominate the horizon, their deep green foliage blending with the russet-coloured sheep grazing country. While passing through the Kerikeri Basin, see the Stone Store and Kemp House, New Zealand’s oldest building. Before returning to the ship there will be a stop to photograph the cascading Haruru Falls.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is approximately 45 minutes’ walking on the paths and lawns at Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

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.

Travel into the heart of Tutuila, to a remote location overlooked by the mountains. Here, you will be able to capture the essence of island life and see how the local people live. A highlight of your stop here will be the stunning Mountain View and beautiful natural surroundings.

A friendly local family will greet you with delightful songs and traditional island music. Enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and warm welcome of the locals as you experience a typical Samoan greeting for VIP’s.

Heading off in your island-style bus for south western Tutuila, you will drive along the impressive and extensive coastline, which is said to be one of the most beautiful in the South Pacific. From the coast, you will venture inland to discover the picturesque little villages, which typify island life in Samoa.


This excursion will operate by island bus. Although there is limited walking on this tour, guests are advised that the ground may be uneven with some steps.

Take a guided tour of the famous Sydney Opera House, the world-renowned building which is the cultural centre of Sydney’s performing arts. Marvel at this miracle of architecture and engineering; a work of art that came into existence against impossible odds - to become one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world.

Experience the vibrancy of Sydney, one of the world's most spectacular cities, where ornate architecture from Victorian times contrasts with sleek, modern buildings. See The Rocks (Sydney's birthplace), Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, Sydney Tower, Kings Cross and the artists’ haven of Paddington. Pass through part of Sydney's Botanical Gardens to reach Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for panoramic views of the Opera House, the city skyline, Harbour Bridge and Sydney Heads.

Travel through downtown Sydney for a stop at the coastal resort of Bondi Beach. Bondi is Australia’s most famous surf beach, a crescent of golden sand framed by rocky headlands. Soak up the atmosphere from one of the many cafés overlooking the beach or take a stroll along the pretty promenade.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a walk of approximately 500 yards from the coach to the Opera House and approximately 200 steps inside the Opera House. All surfaces are paved, however there may be some uneven ground at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair. There will be approximately 20 minutes free time at Bondi Beach. Due to a strict cancellation policy enforced by Sydney Opera House no refunds will be given to any cancellations made within a week of the call.

This tour focuses on Eva Duarte, the wife of Juan D Perón, and her political life, tragic death and the continuity of her myth that lives on. Visit the key landmarks of her life as well as the museum opened to commemorate her legacy.

The journey through the life of Evita begins in Plaza de Mayo, to view the balcony at the Casa Rosada, the Presidential House from where she used to talk to the Argentine people. Proceed onto the Recoleta Cemetery, to visit the tomb of Evita and see the amazing above ground cemetery lined with mausoleums and statues. This is where generations of Argentine families rest in ornate splendour and where you will visit Evita´s final resting place.

The Evita Museum was opened to mark the 50th anniversary of her death. Learn about the truth, life and work of one of the most important women in Argentine history. Though a unique patrimony, increased with donations, you will be able to learn about her life, social reality and the international context of Evita´s days.

Round off your tour with a scenic drive through Palermo with its magnificent mansions and parks, before returning to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are some steps at the Museum and Recoleta Cemetery. The order of highlights may vary and the tour duration may change slightly due to traffic conditions.

Board your local bus and make your way through Suva to Edinburgh Drive where you can capture the commanding views of Suva Harbour and Lauthala Bay. Your journey will take you past Fiji’s Medical School, Suva Agricultural Station and the fertile flat lands which lead to the town of Nausori. As you cross the Waimanu River, famous for its water lilies, you’ll pass Adi Cakobau School, now a well-known boarding school for girls.

Friendly villagers are waiting for you at the Village of Rewa Delta, to present you with a pretty garland as they serenade you. Fijian warriors in traditional dress will escort you to the village meeting place to join the village Chief and the men folk in the preparation of Kava (Fijian ceremonial drink).

Learn of the history and Fijian way of life, view traditional art and craft demonstrations, such as mat, basket and hat weaving, and enjoy a guided walk around the village. You’ll also have an opportunity to purchase souvenir items made by the villagers.



This tour will operate by coach and on foot. The Kava ceremony is for demonstration only. Guests are requested to take precautions in case of rain and wear comfortable shoes. To respect local traditions, whilst in the village, visitors are requested not to wear hats and women should wear clothing, which covers their knees. Please remember to take local currency if wishing to purchase craft items.

Travel back in time as you drive through The Rocks, a ‘must-see’ attraction as it is Sydney’s birthplace. Your drive takes in King’s Cross, the reputed red light district and Paddington, a trendy artists haven of steep hills and Victorian homes. You also pass Sydney Tower, the Opera House and the Sydney Entertainment Centre.

Stop at one of the best vantage points in Sydney, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. This historic chair was carved out of a rock ledge for Governor Lachlan Macquarie's wife, Elizabeth. The carved bench provides lovely panoramic views across the harbour, to the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the Mountains in the far distance.

Enjoy a photograph stop at the modern and trendy coastal area of Bondi Beach, Australia’s most famous beach. Bondi has a number of cafés and restaurants which overlook the beach, making it a great place to watch the world go by.


This excursion will operate by coach. Spaces are limited, therefore early booking is recommended. There will be approximately 15 minutes of free time at Bondi Beach. Most surfaces are paved, however there maybe some uneven ground at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

Brisbane has the look of a city that has recently grown-up. Much of the old and unsightly has been bulldozed and replaced with glittering glass and concrete towers, hotels and paved shopping malls.

On this leisurely drive around the cosmopolitan and lively City of Brisbane, you will have the opportunity to see many sights including the historical buildings of Parliament House, the Treasury Building, Customs House and the City Hall.

Continuing on to Mount Coot-tha look-out, you will be able to enjoy an unequalled panoramic view over the city’s modern, sleek skyscrapers and picturesque suburb. On a clear day you can see as far as the Glass House Mountains to the North, the Gold Coast Hinterland to the South and Moreton and Stradbroke Islands to the East.

Your journey will take you past South Bank Parklands, a 42-acre sub-tropical park built on the site of the 1988 World Expo, to Kangaroo Point Cliffs. A brief stop here will provide a vista of the city skyline with the meandering Brisbane River below.

The unusual blend of historic buildings, modern architecture and lush inner city parks make this a city not to be missed.


This excursion will operate by coach. All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with photography stops along the way.