Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes

We take the coastal road past picturesque villages with houses built out of lava, to Sete Cidades, a volcano crater eight miles in circumference. From the crater’s edge, there is a magnificent view (weather permitting) of the two lakes inside. Legend tells of the Sete Cidades – seven cities – inside the volcano where there are now lakes, one reflecting the blue sky, and the other bright green. Includes visits to António Borges Botanical Garden and a pineapple plantation.

Best of Antigua

A spectacular combination of incredible scenery, maritime history and West Indian culture. Includes Antigua’s beautiful ten-square-mile National Park, with the famous English Harbour, Shirley Heights and Nelson’s Dockyard, built in 1725 to provide a base for a squadron of ships patrolling the West Indies and today one of the biggest attractions of the eastern Caribbean, being the world’s last remaining Georgian naval dockyards still in use today. Here, enjoy a complimentary refreshment at the Admiral’s Inn.

Helicopter flight over volcanic Montserrat

The only way to admire the thrilling spectacle of volcanic Montserrat is by helicopter over the ‘exclusion zone’, an area off limits to ground transportation. Hop in a Bell 206 as the knowledgeable pilot takes you to the centre of Montserrat’s exclusion zone, the Soufrière Hills Volcano, for two flypasts of the 3,000 ft cone, still active and frequently emitting a combination of ash, steam and smoke. Wonderful photo opportunities include distant Plymouth, the deserted former capital, and the abandoned W.H. Bramble Airport.

Pigeon Island Tour

Travel to the island of Basseterre and the stunning National Park where on the sandy beach of Malendure we join a modern glass bottomed-boat for a trip over the protected reef, where Jacques Cousteau shot several scenes for his first movie The World Of Silence. Includes refreshments on the boat, opportunity to snorkel over the reef (conditions permitting, equipment supplied) and a visit to the enthralling Crayfish Waterfall.

Willemstad trolley train tour

Experience the beauty of Curaçao on a tour that takes you through its historic capital, Willemstad. From the dock you will be transferred to Fort Amsterdam to board the Willemstad Trolley Train. Your ‘train ride’ passes many interesting sights, including the floating market on Sha Caprilleskade, Scharloo, Bolo di Bruit, Pietermaai Cathedral, Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, Queen Wilhelmina Park, the imposing fortress Waterfort Arches, and Fort Amsterdam, built in 1635. Photo stops and free time.

Sorry, no excursions are currently available. Unfortunately, no organised excursions can be operated at this port.

Manta & Montecristi

A wonderful insight into life in typical coastal Ecuadorian towns and countryside. You’ll tour Manta’s Archaeological Museum of Banco Central, visit the ivory nut or tagua factory, and see how this prized ‘vegetable ivory’ is carved into exquisite creations. To picturesque Montecristi, an age-old handicraft centre specialising in straw and wickerwork, and the birthplace of the famous Panama hat, an item still produced in small family-run businesses. Watch the artisans at work or explore this charming old colonial town.

Sorry, no excursions are currently available. Unfortunately, no organised excursions can be operated at this port.

Tahiti natural treasures

Discover the natural beauty of Tahiti on this incredible tour, beginning at Tahara’s View Point for a magnificent view of the neighbouring sister island of Moorea, and the translucent waters of Tahiti’s Matavai Bay bordered by its black sand beaches and green cliffs. Includes dramatic Arahoho Blowhole, paradisal Vaipahi Garden and Waterfall, the Maraa Grottos, natural caves formed by the sea, and the ancient sacred sanctuary of Marae Arahurahu, surrounded by tropical trees and flowers.

Tahiti jeep safari

Go deep into the unspoiled interior of the beautiful island of Tahiti by 4x4, heading towards the East Coast and branching off up the tracks of the Papenoo Valley, through lush tropical rainforest, exotic flowers and idyllic scenery interspersed with cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views. Along the way you can even enjoy a rejuvenating dip in the cool, sparkling water of a river, so don’t forget your costume and towel.

Bora Bora Island by ‘le truck’

Enjoy a circular tour of this paradise island on board its typical transportation, ‘le truck’. Gain impressions of the idyllic Bora Boran lifestyle while passing villages, endless brilliant tropical flora, multi-hued lagoons and palm-lined beaches. Includes stops or views of beautiful Fa’anui Bay, Fa’anui Marae, the transparent lagoon at Taihi Point, volcanic Mount Otemanu, sugar-white Matira Beach, Mama Edna’s Place for fresh local specialties; and how to wear and tie a traditional Polynesian pareo (sarong).

Historic Nuku’alofa

A fantastic tour featuring some of Tonga’s historic highlights, beginning with a drive along Nuku’alofa’s waterfront, passing the Royal Palace and Tomb, continuing to the eastern side of the island where English explorer Captain James Cook landed in 1777. See the burial tombs of the ancient Tongan kings and the Ha’amonga, a great coral arch constructed around 1200 AD. At Fanga’uta Lagoon fresh seasonal fruits will be served, accompanied by traditional Tongan dancing.

Cultural extravaganza

Your destination is the Arts Village of Fiji where your arrival is heralded by the reverberating sound of a hollow drum beaten by a Fijian warrior. A special performance of villagers chanting and young men fire walking is given which signals the start of the ancient ceremony. Refreshment is served during this astounding experience of cultural dance and song.

Sorry, no excursions are currently available.

Bay of Islands ‘Hole In The Rock’ cruise

Savour a cruise on a specially-built catamaran through the magnificent ‘inner islands’ of the 144 that in total constitute the Bay of Islands, including the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’ and the magnificent Grand Cathedral Cave. You’ll also pass the historic towns of Paihia and Russell, while photo stops include beautiful Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach admiring the cobalt-blue waters that teem with dolphins, seals, fairy penguins and whales.

Sydney city sights, Opera House & Bondi Beach

Tour duration approx: 4 hours Pre-booked price, per person: £29 On board price: £31 Child price: £23

Starting at the historical Rocks area, Sydney’s birthplace in 1788, you’ll see beautiful sandstone buildings that gave the area its name. A guided tour of the amazing Sydney Opera House follows next, followed by Harbour Bridge, Parliament House, Darling Harbour, Chinatown, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney Heads and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, for sensational views over the harbour. Travel through Kings Cross, Rushcutters Bay, Double Bay and Watson’s Bay before arriving at famous Bondi Beach.

Bridge Climb, Sydney Harbour Bridge

Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience as a professional team leads you on a truly exhilarating climb to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge! Make your way over the catwalk to the pylon and then set out across the arch, on your way to the summit for a spectacular 360-degree view of over one of the world’s greatest harbours. Complimentary digital photographs and a commemorative Climber Certificate capture your thrilling achievement.

City highlights & vintage railcar ride

Become more intimate with Tasmania’s stunning northern coast on a city tour of dazzling Devonport, continuing across Bass Straight, with its sweeping views, on your way to visiting the Maritime Museum and fascinating Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Museum. You’ll then board a vintage diesel-hauled carriage for a relaxing train ride through a nature reserve along the eastern banks of the picturesque Don River, followed by free time in the Railway Museum.

Highlights of Perth & Fremantle

iscover historic maritime Fremantle and the modern megacity of Perth. In Fremantle, see charming colonial architecture, convict-built landmarks, Fremantle Prison and the Round House. In Perth, admire exclusive suburbs of Mosman Park, Peppermint Grove, Dalkeith, the riverside mansions of ‘Millionaire’s Row’, Royal Perth Yacht Club, Matilda Bay and the Old Swan Brewery. In the city, see historic buildings such as Parliament House, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Government House, stunning Kings Park on the banks of the Swan River, before heading to striking Cottesloe Beach.

Sugar World, Pamplemousses Garden & Port Louis

Begin with a fascinating tour of ‘Sugar World’ at Beau Plan, continuing to the Royal Botanical Gardens of Pamplemousses, known to naturalists worldwide for its incredible indigenous and exotic plants, including the giant Victoria Regia waterlilies. On to Port Louis where, from the stone citadel of Fort Adelaide, there is a wonderful panorama over the city, harbour and surrounding mountains. There’s also time to explore the bustling market filled with colourful tropical produce, and the vibrant le Caudan Waterfront.

Piton Maïdo

Réunion’s uniqueness lies in its spectacular natural wonders, as you’ll discover when we take the West Coast road past white and black sandy beaches and ever-changing scenery. Turning inland, we drive through endless fields of sugar cane, geraniums and tamarinds, to the Piton des Neiges volcano, continuing up a steep road to Maïdo Peak for breathtaking views of the amazing volcanic basin of Mafate. We’ll also stop at “La Petite France”, where the secrets of perfume making are revealed.

Zulu village and countryside

We take the Old Main Road over a mountain ridge for spectacular views of the ‘Valley of a Thousand Hills’, genuine Zulu country. Here you’ll visit PheZulu village for a flavour of traditional Zulu lifestyle, including tribal dancing by warriors in full regalia. Following this rewarding experience with ‘the people of the sky’, enjoy scones and refreshments overlooking the ‘Valley of a Thousand Hills’. Includes visit to PheZulu Reptile Park, home of Junior, a 99-year-old, 3-metre-long, 600kg crocodile.

Cape Town city tour and Table Mountain

See Cape Town’s most notable and historic landmarks, starting along Cape Town’s famous Adderley Street, passing the country’s oldest church, the Old Slave Lodge, St George’s Cathedral, Houses of Parliament, colonial-Regency Tuynhuys, and glorious Company’s Gardens. To Maidens Cove for a view over the Twelve Apostles, continuing to Table Mountain for an amazing cable car ride to the summit (weather permitting) for incredible views, if clear, over Robben Island. Includes drive through the picturesque Malay Quarter, Bo-Kaap.

Robben Island

This fascinating tour begins with a ferry journey to Robben Island, 7 miles out to sea. The island gained notoriety in 1960 as a maximum security prison for those considered dangerous to the government. Its most famous inmate was Nelson Mandela who spent almost 20 years out of his 27 year imprisonment here. During the visit, escorted by ex-political prisoners, you will view Nelson Mandela’s prison cell and see the lime quarries where he once worked.

St Helena scenic sightseeing

We begin with a drive to Napoleon’s Tomb, stopping to view the Heart-Shaped Waterfall, Briars Pavilion, James Bay and Lower Jamestown. Moving on from Napoleon’s Tomb, in a locale chosen by Napoleon himself for its peacefulness, we visit Longwood House, Napoleon’s last residence, and now a museum containing various memorabilia of the emperor. Also includes visits to scenic Sandy Bay Ridges, Plantation House, Half Tree Hollow, Jacob’s Ladder, and Ladder Hill, for fantastic bird’s-eye views of Jamestown.

Sorry, no excursions are currently available.

The spirit of São Tiago

Begin with free time in the lively spice markets of the capital, Praia, before visiting the treasure-filled National Maritime Museum. Continue to Velha, the old Portuguese capital of Cape Verde, whose fortunes was built on the slave trade between Africa and Europe. See the poignant pelourinho (slave pole) in the centre of the town, wander the narrow, cobblestoned streets, and from the restored 16th-century São Filipe Fortress, enjoy splendid views over the town, valley and coastline.

Scenic tour of Eira do Serrado & Pico dos Barcelos

First to Pico dos Barcelos, where, from the flower-decked belvedere, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the city, bay and surrounding hills. Marvel at the scenery along the Socorridos Ravine before arriving at Eira do Serrado. A short walk takes you to the summit of Pico do Serrado. Gaze down on Nuns Valley and the peaks of Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro. Includes journey through village of Santo Antonio and a tasting at Madeira Wine Cellars.

Toboggan ride

We begin at Pico dos Barcelos, with its spectacular views over the city, bay and surrounding hills, before continuing through São Roque and arriving at the hilltop village of Monte, famous for its fine properties, gardens and18th-century twin-towered church. This is where you and two other passengers board a toboggan, or basket sledge, and begin the thrilling descent down to Livramento, steered by two experienced ‘outriders’. Includes visit to Funchal embroidery factory and Madeira Wine tasting.

Ponta Delgada, Azores

The beautiful Azores Islands are a real hidden treasure. Lush, flower-filled parks make walking through Ponta Delgada a real pleasure, while outside of the city you can discover beautiful natural scenery with dramatic rocky cliffs descending to pristine bays.

St. John’s, Antigua

Boasting 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, the paradise island of Antigua offers a great introduction to typical Caribbean life with ample opportunity for sunbathing, diving and snorkelling. The island is laden with colonial atmosphere, ranging from the old stone windmills of long-abandoned sugar plantations, to the renovated naval base of Nelson’s Dockyard.

Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe

The Caribbean archipelago of Guadeloupe combines beautiful palm-fringed beaches with modern cities and expansive rainforests. The gracious town of Pointe-à-Pitre is decorated in Gallic style, yet spiced with an exotic Creole flavour. Be sure to sample one of the islands many specialities including stuffed crab, washed down with a glass of refreshing rum punch.

Willemstad, Curaçao

Located 15 miles off the Venezuelan coast, Curaçao is the largest of the Caribbean’s six Netherlands Antilles. The Dutch influence can clearly be seen in the curved gables and orange-roof tiles of Willemstad’s Handelskade, not forgetting Dutch road signs that may remind you of Amsterdam. There is sensational duty-free shopping, items for purchasing including the famous Curaçao liqueur.

San Blas, Panama

Nestled away on Panama’s eastern Caribbean coast is the breathtakingly beautiful San Blas archipelago, inhabited by the self-sufficient Kuna Indians. Discover a magnificent coastline, crystal clear waters and an incredible abundance of flora and fauna.

Cruise the Panama Canal

Linking the magnificent Pacific Ocean to the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, the Panama Canal is one of humanity’s greatest engineering achievements. As we cruise through the narrow canal, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of tropical rainforests, enlivened by colourful birds and gibbering monkeys.

Manta, Ecuador

The delightful port of Manta welcomes you to Ecuador. This intriguing country has a variety of vibrant indigenous cultures, well-preserved colourful architecture and natural scenery ranging from volcanic landscapes to dense rainforest. Take a trip to fascinating Montecristi, where the Panama hat was first created, or visit the delightful Machalilla National Park.

Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands

Largest of the hauntingly beautiful Marquesas Islands, Nuku Hiva is known for its towering peaks, secluded coves, lush valleys and fjord-like bays. We will call at its capital, Taiohae, where you might like to visit the Herman Melville memorial or climb Mt. Muake.

Papeete, Tahiti

Imagine incredible tropical blooms, amazing sunsets and waters speckled with striking shades of blue and green. Then there’s the compelling French influence, especially with regard to Papeete’s fabulous cuisine and great shopping; good buys include black pearls and designer fragrances.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Home to just over 4,000 inhabitants, the heavenly island of Bora Bora is spectacularly located in the centre of a multi-coloured lagoon, inside a protective coral necklace, with soaring mountains rising from the sparkling sea.

Nuku’alofa, Tonga

Literally translated as ‘Abode of Love’, Nuku’alofa is home to the Tongan royal family, and the impressive red-roofed Royal Palace overlooking the waterfront. You can be sure of a warm welcome as the Tongan people are famed for their hospitality.

Suva, Fiji

Sunny, unique and unspoiled, the Fiji Islands offer 1,000 miles of beautiful white sand beaches, coral gardens and azure lagoons. Fiji’s capital city, Suva, is one of the South Pacific’s largest and most sophisticated cities, with many post-colonial buildings and the Fiji Museum.

Auckland, New Zealand

With a population of 1 million, Auckland, known as the ‘City of Sails’, is New Zealand’s largest and most accessible city. A trip downtown presents attractive shopping opportunities, fascinating museums and a variety of friendly cafes and bars. For panoramic views, climb the impressive Sky Tower in the centre of this gracious, well-planned city.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

The stunning Bay of Islands offers some of the most impressive coastal scenery in New Zealand, as well as a myriad of unique wildlife including dolphins, whales and seals.

Sydney, Australia

The magical white-sailed Opera House and the spectacular Harbour Bridge welcome you to Sydney, the shining star of the southern hemisphere. Head into the heart of this vibrant city and enjoy world-class shopping in modern malls and converted Victorian buildings. We will berth overnight in Sydney, enabling you to enjoy the world-famous nightlife.

Devonport, Tasmania

150 miles from Australia, across the Bass Strait, is the beautiful island of Tasmania. During your time in Devonport, perhaps visit the Tasmanian Maritime and Port Museum, or the Don River Railway and Museum, containing a large collection of vintage steam locomotives.

Fremantle, Australia

The popular Australian port of Fremantle is alive with maritime history and heritage. From Fremantle you will have the opportunity to visit Perth, renowned for its warm sunny climate, fabulous white-sand beaches and fabulous shopping arcades.

Port Louis, Mauritius

The paradise island of Mauritius is one of the stars of the Indian Ocean. Its capital, Port Louis, is protected by a semi-circle of mountains and offers vivid reminders of past elegance in buildings such as the Government House, located off the palm-fringed Place D’Armes. Take advantage of excellent shopping here with jewellery and designer fashions available at bargain prices.

Port Réunion, Réunion

The remote and tropical French colony of Réunion has been called the ‘Hawaii of the Indian Ocean’, due to its golden beaches and great surfing. A volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, dominates the island’s spectacular and mountainous landscape with three huge craters created by previous volcanic activity.

Durban, South Africa

The cosmopolitan city of Durban offers a fascinating blend of African and oriental cultures. In the heart of the city, the bustling Marine Parade, which fronts the beach, is lined with an excellent selection of shops, bars and restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, perhaps take a ride by rickshaw; a fun and inexpensive alternative to taxis.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, the ‘Mother City’, as it’s affectionately known has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century ,with the breathtaking Table Mountain providing a stunning backdrop. The Table Mountain Cableway can take you to the summit of the mountain for phenomenal views of the city from 3,300ft. There are a variety of attractions to be found in this cosmopolitan city, ranging from a 17th century castle to the picturesque Victoria and Alfred Waterfront; packed with shops, restaurants and bars.

Jamestown, St. Helena

This tiny unspoilt tropical island is located some 1,200 miles from the west coast of Africa. Landing is by ship’s tender to the capital and port of Jamestown, lying deep in a volcanic valley. Attractions of this British Colony include Longwood House, where the exiled Napoleon ended his days after being defeated at Waterloo.

Georgetown, Ascension Island

Lost in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Ascension Island was completely uninhabited until 1815 when Napoleon Bonaparte was incarcerated on St. Helena and a small British naval garrison was stationed on Ascension to deny it to the French. This is a unique opportunity for you to discover this fascinating
micro-society, which remains unfamiliar, even unknown to most people.

Praia, São Tiago, Cape Verde

Cape Verde is uniquely located at the cross-roads of three continents and as such offers a wonderful mix of African, Portuguese, Mediterranean and Latin influences. We will call at the main island of the archipelago, São Tiago, and its friendly capital, Praia.

Funchal, Madeira

Blessed by a climate that’s almost perfect all year round, the sub-tropical paradise island of Madeira is a haven for those seeking peace, quiet and pure relaxation. The island is regarded as the ‘Floating Garden of the Atlantic’ because of its stunning variety of flora and fauna.