Santiago, (from Valparaiso) to Southampton - 78 nights, February 2014

Take a scenic train journey though the lush countryside and relax on a gentle boat ride along the Tarcoles River and surrounding mangroves.

Take a journey deep into Costa Rican culture and countryside on board the newly-restored cars of the Pacific Railroad train. Learn how this train was used to transport the country’s valuable coffee harvests from the highlands to the coastal ports. Pass though small towns and the beautiful rural countryside as you enjoy your delightful rail journey.

After arriving to Ceiba, which is famous for its tropical mangoes and oranges, you will board a coach and head to the Tarcoles River. Tarcoles is surrounded by many different varieties of mangrove and is teeming with wildlife. You will see cormorants, pelicans and frigates as you glide over the calm waters in your riverboat. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the shy crocodiles, huge iguanas and lizards as well as herons, egrets and storks in search of a bite to eat on the riverbanks.

At the Mangrove Station, you will be treated to some delicious local refreshments.

Note: There is very little walking involved although there are four large steps to board the train. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Discover the beauty of Sydney Harbour on this leisurely cruise, which enables you to see the city sights from a different vista.

As you cruise along the harbour of this stunning and unique destination, you will have superb views of the million dollar waterfront homes, the iconic Sydney Opera House, Fort Denison, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the beautiful Botanical Gardens.

Enjoy a delicious morning tea consisting of muffins, scones, tea and coffee whilst you listen to a comprehensive commentary detailing the history and features of this magnificent harbour. Remember your camera as there are plenty of opportunities for photography. With a shoreline extending 1,500 miles, dotted with secluded bays and coves, Sydney’s harbour ranks as one of the world’s largest and most dazzling.

Note: Guests are advised that the walk to the vessel is approximately 500 yards. There are approximately ten steps to access the on-board toilets. The duration of the cruise is approximately two hours.

Board a high-speed catamaran for a scenic cruise past magnificent sandy beaches, secluded caves and majestic coastal scenery.

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. There will be a brief stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island to stretch your legs. Zane Grey, the noted author and angler, was based here in the 1920’s and it later became the headquarters for deep-sea fishing.

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.

Note: There is a step into the catamaran and approximately ten minutes of optional walking on gravel paths at Otehei Bay. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Beverages purchased from the bar are at the guests’ own expense.

Take a guided tour of Sydney’s renowned Opera House, see the city sights and visit Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach.

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.

Note: 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.

An opportunity to learn the traditional secrets of Costa Rica’s gourmet coffee.

A scenic drive will take you through the Puntarenas’ rustic countryside. Enjoy mountain views as you approach the Highlands of Naranjo, an area famous for the production of high quality coffee.

Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation covers 640 acres and is representative of the history and traditions of Costa Rican coffee. Here, you will discover the secrets of how aromatic coffee is carefully brewed. A guided tour will show you the plantation workers, undertaking their daily tasks in each stage of the production process. You will see an old Costa Rican House and learn how life once was, and the tradition of brewing coffee in past times. During your visit you will be offered a delicious cup of Costa Rican coffee.

Afterwards, your tour will continue to the scenic town of Sarchi, for a brief photograph stop at the main square. Over a century ago, primitive local artists began painting and decorating their oxcarts in intricate and colourful designs. Here you can view the largest oxcart ever to be built.

Your return drive will offer more scenic views of the Costa Rican countryside, before arriving at the pier.

Note: The journey time to Espiritu Santo is approximately 1½ hours. This tour involves around a 1½ hours of walking over some uneven and gravel paths. Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended. Guests are advised to take a bottle of water and sun protection. US Dollars and credit cards are accepted for purchases.

Visit a unique Sheep Station for a traditional outback experience including Aussie tucker and a variety of entertaining shows.

Tobruk Sheep Station is one of the most beautiful, authentic, rural and outback experiences in Australia. Set on 150 acres on a high plateau above the Hawkesbury River and surrounded by State Forests, it has amazing views across to the Blue Mountains. After a 70 minute drive through Sydney’s north west rural region you will be greeted by a Stockman on horseback, who will guide you to the Drover’s Camp where your adventure begins.

Start the morning with traditional camp fire billy tea and damper (Australian soda bread) before sitting back to watch the show.

The Outback Show is an exciting and engaging experience, which includes skilful demonstrations and performances, all delivered with a sense of fun and entertainment. Enjoy the interesting activities such as sheep mustering, working dog displays, whip cracking, boomerang throwing and a wool room presentation.

Luncheon will be an authentic Aussie rump steak barbeque accompanied by bread, potatoes, salad and sauces followed by a traditional Aussie dessert, all washed downed with a choice of drinks including spring water, wine, beer, tea, coffee or fruit juice.

The sheep shearing demonstration includes both blade and mechanical shearing and a brief outline of the history of the shearing industry and the Aussie Shearer. At the end of the demonstration, you can try your hand at shearing.

A truly memorable day.

Note: There is a total of 45 minutes of walking over uneven, unpaved terrain. Comfortable, enclosed shoes are recommended.

An amazing day which includes farming displays, Maori culture and thermal wonders all set in Rotorua’s stunning surroundings.

From Auckland you will travel south along the motorway, over the Bombay Hills and into the fertile dairy lands of the Waikato River Valley. Driving through beautiful rugged countryside and dense forest you will reach the famous geothermal area of Rotorua.

Enjoy a delicious buffet luncheon at a local hotel, whilst being entertained by a Maori concert performance. The performance 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 Te Puia Thermal Reserve. You will be met by a Maori guide for a tour through the thermal area to see the bubbling mud pools, springs and geysers. Further along at the Maori Model Village you will be immersed in Maori culture as the various features are explained whilst you watch the Maori carvers and weavers at work.

Your next stop is the Agrodome where you will see a 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 to Auckland, via Matamata and the Hauraki Plain, sit back and reflect on your day’s experiences.
 

Note: There is a total of 30 minutes’ walking on level, paved paths. The journey to Rotorua is approximately three hours each way, comfort stops are made en route. Comfortable, enclosed shoes, bottled water and a sweater are recommended. The order of highlights may vary.

View the panorama of Auckland’s highest natural point and learn more about New Zealand’s fascinating Maori culture and history.

During an interesting drive through the city of Auckland and across the Harbour Bridge you will pass many of its major points of interest. You will notice how downtown Auckland’s shopping and office complexes contrast with the restored Victorian buildings of the city’s suburbs and Parnell Village with its colonial-style shops. A stop will be made at Bastion Point to enjoy panoramic views of the city and Waitemata Harbour.

Your next stop will be the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which overlooks Waitemata Harbour. It is one of the country’s most important museums and war memorials telling the story of New Zealand and its people. You will be given a guided tour around the museum and see its intriguing collection of exhibits about New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, including the largest collection of Maori and Polynesian artefacts in the country and an 82-foot war canoe, chiseled from an entire Totara tree.

Note: Guests who wish to explore the Museum independently may opt out of the guided tour. The lighting in the Museum is dim to protect the exhibits. The Museum is fully wheelchair accessible. There are toilet facilities at Bastion Point. The itinerary may operate in reverse.

Enjoy a visit to Hell, discover Cayman’s Turtle Farm and sample some of the local rum cake.

Setting off from George Town, your journey will take you downtown passing by several famous landmarks including the Peace Memorial and Heroes Square. You’ll also catch sight of the numerous banks for which Grand Cayman is renowned for.

Your journey continues north along the coastline of Seven Mile Beach and on to Hell. Enjoy a short stop at this popular area, known mainly for its unusual and eerie black jagged rock formations, which gave rise to the name Hell. You may even have the chance to send a quick postcard ‘from Hell’ at the post office.

Afterwards, you’ll head to Boatswains Beach Park which is home to the Turtle Farm, part of an ongoing breeding and conservation program. Here you’ll encounter Green Sea, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles and you’ll also have the opportunity to view the Caiman exhibit.

To round off your tour, enjoy a brief visit to one of the islands famous rum cake centres, before returning to the ship.

Note: This tour involves around 1½ - 2 hours of leisurely walking over relatively flat ground. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Hell is a popular attraction and can become very busy. On some occasions time restraints may not allow a postcard to be sent. The time spent at the Turtle Farm is approximately one hour. Early booking is recommended.

Enjoy a leisurely drive around the bustling city of Auckland.

Embark on a scenic drive through the vibrant city of Auckland. As you cross the Harbour Bridge you’ll be provided with views of Westhaven Marina and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (Auckland’s most prestigious yacht club) before passing by the attractive waterfront area with its two lovely bays to the picturesque suburbs of St Heliers.

Your knowledgeable guide will provide an interesting commentary on Auckland’s history and local life as you contine to Bastion Point. From here, you can enjoy stunning city and harbour views as well as a vista of some of the islands of the Hauraki Gulf.

Your leisurely drive will continue through the charming Parnell Village with its colonial-style shops, boutiques and craft shops, past the historic Auckland War Memorial Museum and on through the busling central business district back to the port.

Note: The main sights are seen from the comfort of your coach. There are toilet facilities at Bastion Point.

Cruise along Aruba’s north-western coastline: enjoy the cooling sea breeze, warm sunshine and some wonderful snorkelling.

Enjoy a soft drink refreshment, as you pass by the beautiful white sand beaches and resorts en route to your snorkelling destination – Malmok Reef. The crew will offer instruction and point out the various marine life as you snorkel over this perfect shallow coral reef.

Your next snorkel site is the famous Antilla shipwreck, a fascinating site that attracts schools of fish to its coral and sponge-encrusted decks.

After your watery encounter, you can relax on deck and bask in the sunshine during your return to Oranjestad. Enjoy some refreshments of rum or fruit punch and seasonal snacks on board.

Note: Guests must negotiate seven steps to enter the water. Children under eight may not participate. Snorkel equipment is included. Participants must be competent swimmers. Marine life sightings are dependent on sea conditions and visibility on the day. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and a towel. Depending on sea swells, an alternative anchorage may be used. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. Water shoes are recommended. Before booking this excursion you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Discover the history and natural beauty of the New Forest with its famous ponies, quaint villages and picturesque landscapes.

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.

Note: The sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with a photograph stop at Hythe. There will be approximately 45 minutes free time in Lyndhurst. There is a small charge to visit the exhibits in the New Forest Visitor Centre.

Visit the highlights including the world-famous surfing beaches, the Polynesian Cultural Centre and the dramatic scenery.

Sit back, relax, and let the beautiful scenery of this stunning island unfold before you.

Pass by the Royal Palace, the only one of its kind in the States. Stop at the Pali Lookout, for fantastic views over pineapple fields, Northshore and Waimea Bay. See the Mormon Temple, a shimmering white building, said to be the best example in the Pacific.

A short shopping stop will be made at the Dole Pineapple Pavilion. This wonderful little outlet blends the traditional elements of Hawaii plantation life, with modern retail.

Experience Polynesia in an unsurpassed display of song, dance and lifestyle from seven South Pacific cultures at the Polynesian Centre. Meet the real people of Samoa, Hawaii, Marquesas, Tonga, New Zealand, Tahiti and Fiji. Discover some of the seven different authentic island settings, with informative demonstrations. See the Long Canoes, a floating show bringing the local traditions of Polynesia to life. An IMAX film show is also included.

Enjoy a delicious buffet luncheon at the Polynesian Centre.

Note: During your visit to the Polynesian Centre you can either explore independently or remain with the guide for a guided tour. Maps and an event schedule will be provided. Due to time restraints not all of the Centre can be seen on this visit. The Centre is accessible for wheelchairs and has its own wheelchairs available for rental. Guests are advised that there will be a moderate amount of walking involved over flat and even surfaces. There are steps to reach the IMAX theatre.

Take in the scenic delights of this unusual island and see the unique features of Aruba.

Enjoy a scenic drive along Eagle Beach, past the resort hotels to the oldest lighthouse on the island – the California Lighthouse. From here you can admire great views of the island. See the Alto Vista Chapel, where Spanish missionaries are said to have converted the island’s Indians into Christians in 1560.

The route then takes you along the north coast to the Baby Natural Bridge, situated next to the former Natural Bridge, which was Aruba’s premier attraction until its collapse in 2005. This spot demonstrates the powerful forces of the sea, which over the years has carved through coral and limestone.

Your return journey takes you to the Casibari Rock formation, a group of large diorite and granite boulders. Head to the south coast to see the world’s largest water desalination plant before returning to Oranjestad.

Note: This tour involves walking over rough and uneven ground. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Guests are advised not to climb on Casibari Rock or the Baby Natural Bridge. The road to the Natural Bridge ruins can be very bumpy. All toilet facilities have a small fee of 50 cents.

Climb aboard an Atlantis Submarine, one of the world’s largest hi-tech passenger submarines.

Your adventure begins with a brief transfer from the ship to Waikiki’s Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Atlantis Pier. Here, you will board the Atlantis transfer vessel for a 15-minute boat ride, featuring scenic views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. Upon arrival at the Atlantis dive site, you will transfer to the submarine for your underwater journey.

Being in a submarine and descending to 100 feet underwater is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and to add to this unforgettable experience, just imagine the extensive marine life you will see. The Atlantis Waikiki dive site is home to amazing and colourful Hawaiian fish and coral and you may also spot one of the local turtles.

Known for its quality and safety, the Atlantis Submarine is an eye-opening experience allowing you to learn about coral, reefs, marine life and submersibles while visiting sunken shipwrecks, an aeroplane and other artificial reefs. Your friendly crew will share their love of the ocean with you.

With a spacious air-conditioned interior, large view ports and comfortable seating, this one-of-a-kind submarine allows you access to the delights of Hawaii’s underwater world.

Note: Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothes and flat, non-slip shoes for boat transfers and navigating the submarine ladder. This tour is suitable for adults and children at least 36 inches in height. Guests must be able to safely negotiate a nearly vertical seven-step ladder into and out of the submarine.