EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

Departing your ship, drive along Avenida do Mar to reach the terminal. There you’ll board your cable car for a ride over the city and harbor on the way to the Village of Monte, located in the outskirts of Funchal. At Monte you'll have the opportunity to take a trip back to the past when you join the toboggan ride to Livramento. The ride downhill in a wicker sledge is an exciting one, providing you with a taste of the Madeira of past decades, when this was the established form of transport from Monte to Funchal. After a short drive along a winding road you’ll reach Eira do Serrado, offering spectacular views of the interior of the island.

Take a short walk up to the viewpoint on Pico do Serrado at an altitude of approximately 3,592 feet (1,095 meters), for an amazing view down onto the village of Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley), a small village located in the heart of the island, nestled between almost perpendicular mountains. In 1566, the nuns from the Santa Clara convent fled from pirates attacking Funchal and found seclusion here where they also brought the convent’s treasure. Your last stop before returning to your ship will be at a local souvenir shop in Funchal, where you'll see the various types of this handmade crafts and sample and may purchase the world-famous Madeira wine.

Conoce los monumentos más encantadores de Corfú, aldeas coloridas y vistas asombrosas de la isla en este tour excelente. Después de viajar aproximadamente 30 minutos, harás la primera parada en Paleokastritsa donde podrás disfrutar de las magníficas vistas que ofrecen las bahías del área. It's said that Odysseus met Nausica after he washed ashore at one of these bays and enjoy some free time. El tour continúa hasta Lakones desde donde podrás divisar Paleokastritsa y tomar fotos inolvidables. Mientras viajas hasta el monte Pantokrator tendrás la sensación de que toda la isla de Corfú se extiende bajo tus pies. Pasarás por varios pueblos de Corfú, recorrerás la bellísima aldea pesquera de Kassiopi y disfrutarás de un típico almuerzo griego. Después de almorzar, recorrrerás la costa noreste a través del pueblo de Nissaki y los resorts costeros de Barbati, Ipsos, Dassia, Gouvia y Kontokali. Al llegar a la ciudad vieja de Corfú, tendrás la oportunidad de admirar desde la comodidad de autobús la arquitectura de las hermosas mansiones, las iglesias bizantinas, el antiguo fuerte, los Palacios de San Miguel y San Jorge, y la animada Plaza Esplanade antes de regresar al muelle.

OVERVIEW

On this panoramic voyage, you’ll circle volcanic harbors and lakes, cross the Canterbury countryside, visit a working sheep farm, and see the sights of urban Christchurch. It all begins with a spin around Lyttelton Harbor – the massive caldera of an ancient volcano – then winds past idyllic Governors Bay on the Banks Peninsula before entering the lush patchwork landscape of Canterbury Plains, where white sheep dot the green hills. New Zealand is famed for its sheep farms and at Manderley Farm, you’ll get the chance to tour one up-close. After a warm greeting and morning tea, farm hands will lead you to a demonstration at the shearing shed and a lively performance by the operation’s most dedicated herders – its talented sheepdogs. Marvel at their talents and agility as they gather a flock from nearby hills, bringing the sheep down to their master and responding to whistled commands from great distances away. Your return journey traces the shore of vast Lake Ellesmere en route to Christchurch for an orientation drive through areas damaged by the 2011 earthquake as you see how the city is rebuilding and restoring some of its most iconic heritage buildings.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend a fascinating half-day experiencing the sights of both town and country by panoramic coach.
• See harbors, lakes and lagoons formed by prehistoric volcanos and cross idyllic green pasturelands.
• Visit a working sheep farm, meet the farm hands and watch champion New Zealand sheepdogs herding the flock by whistled command.
• Take a drive through central Christchurch and learn about its recovery from the 2011 earthquake.
• Return via a historic mountain tunnel that reigned as New Zealand’s longest for over 50 years.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing including a light jacket or sweater.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.

OVERVIEW

The highlands of Scotland offer unparalleled scenic beauty, ancient landscapes and fascinating history – with superb castles, magnificent mountains and enchanting lochs. This tour offers you the opportunity to experience the best of the highlands in a day. Travel alongside the Cromarty Firth and reach the splendid Cawdor Castle, dating from the 14th century. Originally the fortress home of the Thanes of Cawdor, nowadays the castle feels like a living home, rather than a museum. You’ll learn of its rich history as you walk through rooms filled with exquisite furnishings and family keepsakes. Drive through Inverness, the ‘Capital of the Highlands’, sitting astride the tranquil River Ness. Get acquainted with this bustling town on your way to lunch. Head towards Loch Ness, made famous by the fables of Nessie. You’ll travel through the village of Drumnadrochit and on to visit Urquhart Castle, built both as a fortress and as a residence on the shores of the famous loch. Today, a jagged keep rises from crumbling walls against a lovely backdrop of loch and hills beyond. Enjoy the lovely scenery of the Scottish glens, as you continue towards Beauly, noted for its salmon river. Highland Hills form the backdrop on the last part of your journey.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel through ancient landscapes of rolling hills, enchanting lochs, and majestic glens
• Drive alongside the scenic Cromarty Firth with views of mountains and rivers
• Highland hills and glens create a picture-perfect backdrop throughout the journey

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing; include a light raincoat or umbrella.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.

Your coach will take you inland, passing through Sao Martinho to the Socorridos ravine. Eira do Serrado is reached after a short drive along a winding road, offering spectacular views of the interior of the island. Here, it's a short and easy walk up to the viewpoint on Pico de Serrado at an altitude of approximately 3,592 feet (1,094 meters), for an amazing view down onto the village of Curral das Freiras. Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley) is a small village nestling between almost perpendicular mountains in the heart of the island. In 1566, the nuns from the Santa Clara convent fled from pirates attacking Funchal and found seclusion here where they also brought the convent’s treasure. Your next stop will be at Monte.

This small village, perched up in the hills overlooking Funchal, was formerly a health resort for Europe's high society, including Austrian Emperor Charles I. One of its long-lost features was a rack railway, which connected Monte with Funchal. From here you will board the cable car and see Madeira from the air, experiencing the wonderful views all the way down to Funchal. The cable car is made up of 40 small cabins with a capacity of up to eight people per cabin and it has an approximate duration of 15 minutes. Your last stop will be at an important wine lodge, where a sample of the famous Madeira wine will be offered.

Sardinia has deeply rooted traditions. Food and wine always come first to mind but their music and dances are also an integral part of their culture. Experience them as you join your fellow cruisers on this memorable outing. Stop in front of the Basilica of Bonaire while your guide explains its history. From the view point at Monte Urpino, you’ll have a great view of the old city, dominated by the Cathedral and the bay with its salt ponds. See the popular Poetto Beach on your way to Maracalagonis, a rich agricultural area at the foot of the Sette Fratelli Mountains.

In these mountains, herds of wild boar and Sardinian deer are still found. Being so close to Cagliari (about 15 miles), allows the people living here to keep their traditions without suffering the inconvenience of excessive isolation. Stop at a typical country house to enjoy a lively folkloric performance with dancers dressed in ancient Sardinian costumes. While you watch, try some of the local delicacies and cookies prepared according to traditional recipes, all accompanied by Sardinian wines. You’ll be welcomed to join the locals on the dance floor and learn a few steps. After learning about Sardinian food, dance and traditions, you’ll return to the ship full of joy.

OVERVIEW

Embark on an adventurous exploration deep into the lava caves of Vatnshellir, formed thousands of years ago by a violent eruption. Western Iceland is the setting Jules Verne used for his epic 1864 page-turner, Journey to the Center of the Earth, wherein the professor and his intrepid crew get into all kinds of adventures after entering a passage into the earth on Snæfellsjökul Peninsula. Your expedition down into Vatnshellir will be much the same, but with better ventilation – and no dinosaurs. The lava tube entrance is a scenic hour’s drive from the pier, along a rugged coast and majestic volcanic landscape. Equipped with helmet and flashlight, you’ll follow your guide through an above-ground entry capsule and down into the cave’s upper section, lined with fascinating lava formations along its sides. A long, narrow passage and spiral staircase lead ever deeper until you reach the cave’s lower section, a completely soundless chamber with black igneous walls. Once there, all lights will briefly be turned off so that you can experience true total darkness. Expect your sense of smell to become heightened as your brain lets go of sight and sound. Then it’s back up to the surface, with new perspective.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle in for a drive across the one-of-a-kind Snæfellsjökul Peninsula landscape by panoramic coach.
• Don your helmet and check your flashlight, both supplied, as you prepare to enter Vatnshellir lava cave.
• Follow your guide inside and down through lava tubes and stairways leading to a soundless base chamber nearly 11 stories underground.
• Experience the rare sensation of total darkness and silence as we all briefly turn out our lights.
• Learn about what forces went into making this place happen, and what folklore has grown up around it.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate layered clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a bottle of water, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.

Float down a slow-moving river on an inner tube and take in the spectacular rainforest scenery while listening to the ambient sounds of the jungle. You will get a genuine feel for rural life while driving through the densely forested countryside on the way to Maya World Outpost, the starting point for your adventure. After a short briefing to help you maximize the tubing experience, you will ease into the river and let the current carry you downstream. Mountain springs feed the river so the water is usually crystal-clear. Along the way, you will pass through a picturesque mountain gorge, over a series of small rapids and under overhanging trees so you will usually be in the shade. The scenery will be ever-changing, which adds to the excitement and makes the trip all the more memorable. Chances are, you will hear squawking tropical birds as they are abundant in the protected rainforest.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Float down a slow-moving river through a pristine rainforest.
• Admire the ever-changing jungle scenery while listening to the sounds of nature.
• Look for wildlife, especially birds such as the keel-billed toucan, Belize’s national bird.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear a swimsuit under your clothes..
• Wear shoes that are appropriate for the water.

This relaxing narrated drive through Edinburgh captures the capital's essence through its signature landmarks, including imposing Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Park and New Town.

Depart from the pier and drive towards the spectacular Gothic cityscape of Edinburgh, somewhat following the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, a gaping inlet from the North Sea. Upon arriving in the proud capital city, you can't help but notice brooding Edinburgh Castle sitting atop an outcrop of sheer granite cliffs. It anchors one end of the famed Royal Mile, an area approximately one mile long that extends down to Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

As you crisscross the streets in this phenomenally scenic Old Town, you will get a sense of what life here was like centuries ago. The streets are busy, narrow and lined with towering buildings Edinburgh-born Robert Louis Stevenson once described as "a dream in masonry." You will also travel along the major thoroughfare of Princes Street in New Town, a stunningly picturesque section of Edinburgh whose construction began in the late 18th century. It's known for neo-classical architecture and large, open green spaces.

As you will discover driving through Holyrood Park, it is truly one of the city's most beautiful green oases with serene ponds favored by waterfowl. You'll stop for photos and to take in the views at the highest point in the park, Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano that overlooks the Edinburgh and far beyond.

Afterwards, you will return to the pier.

OVERVIEW

Cruise through the Sea of Cortez on a double-deck catamaran and look for whales breaching the water’s surface. Along the way, you will pass El Arco – the iconic arch-shaped granite formation at the tip of the peninsula – where you will likely see sea lions along the rocky shore. Still, the star attractions are the whales that migrate to breed or give birth. More than a dozen species of whales frequent these waters, including humpbacks, blue whales and gray whales. It is always a breathtaking sight as one of these behemoths comes up for oxygen. Humpbacks are particularly mesmerizing to watch as they acrobatically breach the water’s surface, waving their flukes up and down as they dive. When blue whales surface to exhale, the spray from their blowholes can shoot as high as 30 feet into the air. As you observe these massive cetaceans, appetizers will be served and the bar will be open.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Look for whales and other cetaceans while cruising through the Sea of Cortez.
• Learn fascinating facts about whale behavior and their breeding patterns.
• Enjoy appetizers and drinks from the open bar on the catamaran.
• Look for sea lions on the rocky shoreline at El Arco at the peninsula’s tip.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Fly high over the Reykjanes Peninsula in a helicopter for a bird’s-eye view of the crater-dotted volcanically formed landscape below. As you soar over the peninsula, you will get a good sense of the topography that continuous geothermal activity has shaped. It won’t be long before you are looking down on the Seltún hot springs, whose boiling mud pools and steam vents have stained the soil bright yellow, red and green. The crater lake Grænavatn – which is Icelandic for “green water” – is an even brighter shade. Then, there is the Blue Lagoon, whose geothermally heated seawater is rich in minerals that contribute to its silky blue color. One of the highlights will be touching down at Eldvörp so you can explore the long row of craters and spatter cones where steam continues to rise from fissures in the ground. A series of 13th-century volcanic eruptions known as the Reykjanes Fires formed this otherworldly landscape.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Take an exhilarating helicopter ride over the volcanically sculpted Reykjanes Peninsula.
• Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of volcanic craters and highly active geothermal areas.
• See how hissing steam vents have turned the soil bright colors.
• Pass over a volcanically formed green lake and the geothermally heated Blue Lagoon.
• Touch down at Eldvörp, a bizarre landscape that 13th-century volcanic eruptions formed.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Follow a short trail through the jungle to a breathtaking waterfall, where you will be free to swim in the pool at the base of the cascade. The drive there will be immensely relaxing and picturesque, putting you in just the right mood to enjoy the rainforest setting. The tree canopy will provide plenty of shade as you walk toward Nakawaqa Waterfall, which you will hear long before seeing it. The cascade tumbles down a narrow canyon in a spectacular display of natural beauty that can be awe-inspiring. Dense jungle surrounds the waterfall, making the setting all the more magical. Take a refreshing swim in the cool water beneath the waterfall or, if you prefer not to get wet, you can easily find a peaceful spot to stretch out on shore. The guide will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the rainforest flora and fauna..

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a relaxing and wonderfully picturesque drive to the Nakawaqa Rainforest.
• Walk through the rainforest to the thundering Nakawaqa Waterfall.
• Swim in the crystal-clear pool beneath the waterfall and enjoy the serene setting.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.