EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

After a short drive, you'll arrive at the impressive Hato Caves. The underground system of passages goes from Curacao all the way to the continent of Latin America. It is home to beautiful limestone formations, romantic pools, the famous Madonna statue and a colony of seldom-seen long nose fruit bats. After your tour through the caves, you're off to an Ostrich farm where you'll board a Safari truck and your local guide will give you detailed information about this spectacular farm.

The birds are impressive and it's really interesting to interact with them. You don't have to be a hero and hand feed them, but it's a great experience! You'll also see the different phases and development of an egg to one of the biggest birds on earth. If you're really lucky one of the birds may be born during your visit. In the souvenir shop you can buy some authentic African art and souvenirs.

Experience a unique, exciting underwater adventure aboard a real submarine. Seated in spacious, air-conditioned comfort you'll see beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life, including coral formations, sponge, and colorful fish through large view-ports to depths of 130 feet.

You'll be greeted by the staff at the Stingray City dive shop and given a safety briefing before a fun interaction with the rays. Protected by the fringing reef, the calm crystal-clear waters are home to many southern stingrays. You'll be assisted and supervised by the qualified staff into the stingray habitat where you'll be able to play with, pet, and perhaps even feed the stingrays. Entry into the 3-8-foot deep water is an easy step from the large swim platform. Even non-swimmers can enjoy the rays. These amazing animals will surprise you with their gentleness and with the informative briefing you receive, these once-feared 'beasts' will find a special new place in your heart and provide you with an unforgettable memory.

OVERVIEW

Experience the flavors of Ko Samui during this unique guided visit to a local market, followed by an exclusive Thai cooking lesson at the beautiful Nora Beach Resort & Spa. Depart the pier for the drive to a local market, which features a wide array of food and goods consumed by the islanders. Wandering among the tiny, packed stalls of this fascinating site is truly a unique experience and it offers excellent insights into the local way of life. Your guide will explain the essential ingredients in the preparation of a typical Thai meal. Please note that you will not be purchasing your ingredients for the cooking class here as they have already been prepared by the school. Next, you will be escorted to the Nora Beach Resort & Spa for a memorable cooking class and lunch. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at the resort with a traditional Thai Herbal beverage prior to your cooking class. You will then watch and learn how the chef prepares the food and explains the traditional methods used in Thai cooking. During this 90-minute cooking demonstration, you will be invited to don an apron and chef's hat and help prepare your meal before enjoying the results of your efforts. You will begin with a delicious bowl of chicken soup made with fresh coconut milk. Next, you will dine on deep-fried stuffed crabmeat served with Thai noodles. Refreshing seasonal fresh fruit will cap off your meal. Before returning to the ship a stop will be made at the Big Buddha Temple. It features a 36-foot golden statue perched atop a wide staircase decorated with dragons. The statue of Buddha is visible from several miles away and creates an impressive silhouette against the sea and sky behind it. Surrounding the Buddha, you will find a number of meditation huts, or kutis, along with several striking golden statues and shops.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Meander through a market observing the bounty of fresh, locally sourced foods.
• Join a cooking class at a resort and prepare dishes with ingredients like those at the market.
• Savor the freshly prepared dishes, which will reflect traditional Thai cuisine.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

From the moment you step aboard this sleek catamaran, you'll know that you're in for something special! After being greeted by the friendly and outgoing crew, enjoy fresh baked sweet breads, fruit and juice, tea or coffee. Sail along Barbados' scenic coastline to a secluded bay where you'll have the opportunity to swim with groups of wild sea turtles. At another stop you can opt to swim in the crystal waters, relax on the beach or join the professional instructors for an optional tour of beautiful reefs teeming with tropical fish.

Afterwards, feast on a sumptuous hot and cold buffet lunch featuring tasty local dishes along with cool refreshments from the open bar. Let your cares drift away as you sail along, basking in the sunshine or relaxing in the shade of the comfortable cabin as you enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Discover a truly unique lifestyle and culture during your visit to Ko Samui, the Island of Coconuts.

Take a scenic coastal drive past exquisite beaches and lush coconut plantations en route to Ko Samui. Stop at the Big Buddha Temple, or Wat Pha Yai. The Big Buddha Temple features a 36-foot golden statue perched atop a wide staircase decorated with dragons.

You will also visit the Plai Laem temple. Surrounded by a lake, this serene modern temple features a towering white statue of Guanyin, a goddess who is believed to be the protector of all beings and a source of unconditional love. Her many arms are thought to represent her ability to reach out and provide help. Along the way, stop at a viewpoint overlooking the beautiful Chaweng Beach.

After lunch at a local beach resort, you'll visit a local home and coconut plantation to explore how the islanders live and work. During your visit you'll learn how the monkeys found on the island are domesticated and trained to pick ripe coconuts, as centuries-old tradition that certainly comes in handy as Ko Samui produces over three million coconuts per month. Observe the exceptional abilities of these entertaining creatures, along with their amusing antics.

Travel to the port where Napier was known to have begun, historic Ahuriri. In 1931, the towns of Hastings and Napier were severely rocked by an earthquake; it was this same earthquake that led to a unique rebuilding at the same time the Art Deco concept was flourishing in the U.S. and Europe. As a result, Napier is endowed with a splendid heritage of Art Deco buildings.

Stop for photos at the National Tobacco Company Building, and from there it's on to Marewa, Napier's Art Deco suburb where you'll have an opportunity to view many of the unique private homes and gardens that comprise this charming neighborhood. Travel back along Marine Parade with its stately Norfolk Pine trees to the Art Deco Shop. Following an informative 20-minute film presentation, your local guide will lead you on a leisurely half-mile stroll through Napier's Art Deco Quarter where you'll see up close its eclectic mix of 1920s and 1930s buildings in the Spanish Mission, Stripped Classical and, above all, Art Deco styles. Interior visits to the old AMP Building and the ASB Bank are also included in this guided walk.

Explore life in Bangkok, past and present, during this full-day tour that includes a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and visits to the temple of Dawn, the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple.

Upon arrival at River City Pier in Bangkok, you'll embark a boat for a ride along the bustling Chao Phraya River and its canals, or klongs. Along the way, you'll take in picturesque scenes and photo opportunities of typical Thai canal life. Stop for a visit of the magnificent Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) before proceeding for lunch at a local restaurant. Standing at the river's edge, it is one of the most beautiful and best-known temples in the city.

Drive to the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple, one of the most beautiful examples of an ancient Siamese court. The Grand Palace, former residence of the Kings of Thailand, is now reserved for royal ceremonies and state occasions. During your visit to the Palace compound, you'll admire the magnificent Royal Chapel and view Wat Phra Kaew, the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most sacred Buddha image.

Touch a dolphin while learning all about them. You will stand in waist deep water as the dolphin allows you to gently touch, kiss and interact with a dolphin while learning about these intelligent marine species in an intimate, small-group setting. This program is a relaxed and fun way to meet a dolphin for all ages! You don't have to be able to swim to participate in the Dolphin Encounter.

Start with a scenic drive and photo stop on your way to enjoy one of Tortola's beautiful beaches. Swim in the crystal clear waters or just relax on the beach. Choice of beach is subject to change depending on sea and weather conditions. You'll be brought back to your ship or you can be dropped off in the downtown area.

You will be met at your ship and taken to the Antigua rainforest. A welcome drink will be offered. After being briefed by fully trained and experienced guides your exhilarating tour begins. The Antigua Canopy Tour is a unique and award winning eco-tour through Antigua's lush rainforest, where you embark on an unforgettable journey through the verdant forest, high above the trees. Your tour starts at the architectural pleasing Old Pump House with a walk over a suspension bridge from the side of the building, which spans the gorge to the far bank. Once across the bridge, there is a 12 zip lines journey through the forest begins as you trail to the start aerial zips, crisscrossing the gorge. There are zip lines of 52 feet to 328 feet in length. The geography of the gorge dictates that you are above the treetops for large parts of the run - exiting and entering a corridor in the foliage at either end. There are a series of 12 zip lines, 4 aerial walkways and 2 suspension bridges giving you a wonderful opportunity to have a bird's eye view of the flora and fauna in the rainforest. You will have some short trails into the gorge and then a series of connecting zip lines and bridges, which crisscross the gorge at tree canopy level. The gorge is full of interesting plants and fruits and has a definite "tropical" feel to it especially when you take a break in our tree house, hidden from the rest of the world! Within the gorge there is a series of large trees and certain features; prominent boulders and a rock pool. The gorge offers a shaded area with interesting plants with a range of wild fruits, vines, mosses and lichens. Mineral water is available at several water stations through the tour. Once back you will be offered a certificate of achievement and time to relax on our verandah with a cool drink or take some time to look at photographs or choose a souvenir from our well stocked gift shop.

Discover beautiful Tortola and enjoy dramatic views, as you drive along winding Ridge Road. Enjoy panoramic views of Tortola and neighboring islands. Enjoy an hour at Cane Garden Bay Beach where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters or just relax on the beach. You'll drive through little coastal villages and along the Sir Francis Drakes coastline, on your return to the ship.

Step aboard your air-conditioned coach for a scenic drive through the countryside to Gun Hill Signal Station. Built in 1818, the signal station was restored and landscaped by the Barbados National Trust and now houses a collection of military memorabilia. An officer at the signal station carved the statue of the lion, out of a single piece of rock in 1868. Enjoy a fantastic view of the island from here.

Continue on to Orchid World, which sits on 6 acres of land in the parish of St. George. A path winds its way between beautiful coral, rock gardens, shady gullies and ponds. The orchids are spectacular - thousands are grown in shaded houses and outside on freestanding palisades. You'll be fascinated by the sight of orchids growing mid-air with their roots completely free of soil. Wonderful photo opportunities abound.

Continue to the Highland Adventure Centre, from here the view of the east coast is breathtaking - you'll also see Mount Hillaby the highest point on the island. Refreshments are available for purchase at the well-stocked bar.

See areas such as Jumby Bay, Bird Island and the natural spectacle of Devil's Bridge up-close-and personal. Be at peace with the world as you gaze at slender coconut palms waving in the breeze and listen to rhythmic calypso and reggae music. Then, you will be whisked away to Green Island to relax on the beach or explore the nearby reef. Back on board, the crew will cook a delicious lunch. Next, cruise across English Harbor, past the exotic western coast of Antigua where virgin white-sand beaches and pristine bays can still be found.

OVERVIEW

Visit the landmarks in and around Ocho Rios and Saint Ann's Bay that best reflect their histories before heading to a tropical resort for an inspired tasting of Jamaican rums. The highlights that you will see along the way include a Christopher Columbus monument, a statue of locally born Pan-African leader Marcus Garvey and the Spanish-style Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. The natural beauty on the outskirts of town is equally captivating as you will discover while gazing out over the lush countryside from the High View Point lookout and driving through Fern Gully. Jamaica is also known for its rum, which has long been intertwined with the culture of the island. It tends to be exceptionally aromatic and flavorful as you will discover while sampling a selection of premium rums at Reggae Hill resort. If time permits, you might swim in the White River and stop for a bit of shopping.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the best of Ocho Rios and Saint Ann’s Bay with a focus on their histories.
• Appreciate the area’s gorgeous natural beauty, especially in lush Fern Gully.
• Sample a selection of Jamaican rums at the tropical resort Reggae Hill.
• Take a dip in the White River and shop if time permits.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Watch your children interact with bottlenose dolphins in a sheltered cove while a trainer stands by to ensure a memorable experience for everyone. It will just take a few minutes to reach Dolphinaris Cozumel, an aquatic park dedicated to the conservation and protection of marine mammals. After a kid-friendly introduction to dolphin behavior and characteristics, your kids will ease onto a shallow submerged platform in the water that the dolphins inhabit. These marine mammals are exceptionally friendly, curious and highly intelligent. Chances are, the dolphins will soon approach as they enjoy human contact. Your children will be encouraged to touch, hug and even kiss the dolphins, if they are comfortable with that level of contact. All the while, you can observe the playful interaction between your kids and the dolphins.

Parents can take full advantage of everything Dolphinaris Cozumel has to offer. Stop by the restaurant for a la carta Lunch and unlimited drinks. Have the option to snorkel at Serenity Cove, a safe inlet where you can swim through an underwater aquarium filled with tropical fish and starfish! Kayak or paddle board, these activities are available on a first-come-first-served basis and if weather permits. Guests must be at least 5 years of age or older to participate in snorkeling.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe the playful interaction between your kids and the dolphins at Dolphinaris Cozumel.
• Parents can enjoy the facility while observing their kids
• Watch as the dolphins encourage your kids to touch and even hug them.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Second only to Marlborough on New Zealand's South Island, Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's leading wine producing regions. With more than 60 prominent wineries, the Hawke's Bay area is renowned for its Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Visit two of the top wineries of the region. At each winery, you will be treated to a tasting of some of their recent vintages with the opportunity to purchase the ones you enjoyed afterwards.

A brief photo stop will be made at the Te Mata Peak. From this vantage point, you will be able to enjoy the view of New Zealand’s oldest wine region, famed for its microclimates and gravely soil.

OVERVIEW

Spend hours relaxing on the gorgeous stretch of sand that rims Emerald Bay, also known as Lindbergh Bay for the famed American aviator Charles Lindbergh, who landed on St. Thomas in 1928. How fitting that the beach lies in the shadow of the island's main airport. You will be welcome to while away the hours as you please with no schedule to follow other than your own. Feel free to lie back in a lounge chair in the shade of a beach umbrella or bask in the sun if you prefer. The sheltered waters are typically calm, crystal-clear and ideal for a refreshing swim. You might stroll along the shore, enjoy a drink and lunch at a beach bar and watch the occasional plane land on the nearby runaway. Regardless of how you spend your time, the setting will be idyllic, encouraging you to enjoy every moment without a care in the world.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Relax however you please on the idyllic beach that rims Emerald Bay.
• Enjoy the convenience of a complimentary beach chair and umbrella.
• Swim in the sheltered waters, bask in the sun and take advantage of the beach bars nearby.
• Hear the story of Charles Lindbergh’s landing in a field just across the street in 1928.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Experience the ancient beauty of Old Bangkok during this splendid, full-day orientation tour of the city.

Depart the pier in Laem Chabang for the scenic drive into Bangkok. Your tour of Old Bangkok will begin with a stop at Wat Suthat, easily identified by the famous giant swing in front of the temple. During your visit, you will see a renowned collection of old murals from the reign of King Rama III (1824-1851) housed inside the main building, along with a splendid array of gilded Buddha images.

Next, you will proceed to a local hotel for a buffet lunch, then continue on for a sightseeing drive past the Democracy Monument.

Your tour will conclude with a visit to a local store specializing in gems and quality souvenirs.

Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Experience the beautiful countryside of Puerto Vallarta on this horseback ride tour. After a short journey, you'll arrive at Hacienda Dona Engracia, where your guide will conduct a brief safety orientation and match you with a horse that suits your ability. As you ride along the Mascota River, pass through quaint little villages, viewing local scenery and vegetation and an assortment of different trees.

Wear a swimsuit under your riding clothes because if conditions permit, you may enjoy a swim on horseback, then you’ll head back to the hacienda to explore before you rejoin the transportation back to your ship.

Upon arrival to the Hacienda, enjoy a guided tour of the Tequila Factory process and free tequila samples.

While dining on a Mexican buffet you'll be surrounded by an ambience of Mexican folklore. After dinner, board the motorcoach for the return to your ship.

What better way to end your day in fun-filled St. Thomas than on the "Castaway Girl", a spacious 65-foot catamaran. Relax and unwind as you listen to Caribbean calypso tunes and sail through the picturesque harbor of Charlotte Amalie. Admire its sloping hillside dotted with red roof-tops while you cruise by. Enjoy complimentary chilled champagne, sodas, rum punch and water along with delicious assortments of vegetable platters, fruits and dry snacks. Leave your worries behind and enjoy the casual and pleasant atmosphere around you.

Board a 20-seat, safari vehicle, sit back and enjoy a scenic drive along the coast as you make your way to Te Awanga and Cape Kidnappers Station. Arriving at Cape Kidnappers Station, a privately-owned country farm, you'll be driven over the rich farmland to within a few feet of the gannet sanctuary at Cape Kidnappers. As you cross river beds, broad rolling pastures, steep gullies and breathtaking inclines your guide will provide commentary about the area and life on this 4,500-acre farm.

Cape Kidnappers itself is a dramatic peninsula at the southern end of Hawke's Bay and is the largest and most accessible mainland nesting place of gannets in the world. This is an excellent opportunity to view the gannets in their natural habitat. Enjoy a spectacular view of the rugged coastline from Hawke's Bay all the way north to Mahia Peninsula, from the brink of a cliff that rises 328 feet above the beach. For your enjoyment, afternoon tea will be served.

You'll once more cross the countryside as you retrace your path back to Napier. Approaching the city, your route will take you along the Marine Parade, seeing the stately Norfolk Pines and traveling past such sites as the bronze statue of Pania of the Reef, the Tom Parker Fountain, Floral Clock, Soundshell and Marineland.

Settle in for an exceptionally scenic drive along Jamaica's lush northern shore with stops every so often for photos. As you travel west, the area's stunning natural beauty will be on full display. Expect to see one iconic tropical vista after another, as the land is largely undeveloped. Upon reaching the settlement of St. Ann's Bay, you will pause at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a church built with quarried stone from an unfinished church from the 1500s. Nearby, you will find statues of Marcus Garvey and Christopher Columbus, both of whom significantly influenced Jamaica and the Caribbean. Continuing on to the parish of St. Mary on the eastern side of Ocho Rios, you will visit the Rio Nuevo battle site, where in 1658 the invading English defeated the entrenched Spanish troops for control of the island. Another stop at Oceans of the Ridge will offer the ultimate hilltop view of Ochos Rios.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a panoramic drive through the gorgeous countryside east and west of Ocho Rios.
• See a historical church in St. Ann’s Bay that was built with stones quarried in the 1500s.
• Visit the battle site where in 1658 the English defeated the Spanish for control of Jamaica.
• Pause at the Oceans at the Ridge lookout for the ultimate view of Ocho Rios.

Enjoy the unique and intimate experience of real interaction while swimming with dolphins in their natural lagoon. The dolphins will join and allow gentle touching and interaction. Additionally, you get the opportunity to do specific interactions with the dolphins, and even get a dolphin kiss.

The program offers a unique blend of trained behavior and basic swimming and is perfect for people who have experience using fins. Life jackets are available and mandatory for children under the height of 1.45 m /57 inch. Since you won't be able to use your hands while swimming, the use of fins is required. The dolphin lagoon is about 18 feet deep.

Nestled in the old port district of Portland is the bustling working waterfront where lobstermen off-load their catch from Casco Bay and seafood shops offer the freshest delicacies from the sea. Discover the inner workings of the area with a voyage on a lobster boat followed by walking tour through the cobbled streets of the area exploring the numerous marine related businesses. From the pier a short walk brings you to the waterfront departure point of your lobster boat. Following a short safety briefing depart to Casco Bay to pull live traps. During the voyage discover how lobsters get from the bottom of the ocean to your dinner plate and learn about their habits, conservation efforts and the difference between hard shells, shedders, shorts, culls and keepers.

A see through live tank allows you to watch the catch until the end of the day, when they're released back into the sea. Upon return to the pier, join your guide for a walking tour of the old port area. Your guide will carve a path through the streets of this charming area, which a hundred years ago was home to fish houses, canneries, industrial factories and textile mills. Today the brick warehouses hold numerous fresh seafood shops, coffee houses, bakeries and award-winning restaurants. Learn about the history of this area, as your guide offers insight into the history of the old waterfront.

Explore the wonders of this tropical rainforest with a unique perspective from your Skyrail Cable Car. You'll glide just a few feet above the canopy for a bird's eye view. Spanning approximately 4 1/2 miles over pristine rainforest, Skyrail allows you to explore the wonders of this ancient tropical rainforest, and learn about one of the most botanically diverse areas on earth.

Your adventure includes time at two mid-stations where you can learn more about this fascinating environment. At Red Peak Station, rangers will provide guided boardwalk tours while sharing their knowledge about the rainforest. The easy access walkways at Barron Falls station take you on three separate lookouts where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the gorge and waterfalls.

You'll proceed to Kuranda, a village nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Established as a railway station in the mid-1800s, today this colorful town offers markets, cafés, and restaurants. After a brief overview, you'll have some free time to further explore on your own. Enjoy scenic views on your return drive and a brief panoramic tour of Cairns.

You'll travel to the Adelaide River, one of eight rivers in the Top End which have large flood plains. These flood plains create a great expanse of coastal wetlands that are home to a variety of unique animals and plant life. The Northern Territory is also well known as crocodile country. You'll stop at the Window on the Wetlands Visitors Centre where you'll have the opportunity to learn more about life in this tropical region.

At the Adelaide River, you'll board a boat for your cruise which brings you almost face-to-face with the crocodiles. Keep watch for the tell-tale ripples of an approaching reptile, camera ready in anticipation of capturing that crocodile as it leaps out of the water. For your refreshment, a soft drink will be offered while you are aboard the vessel.

Travelling through Jamaica's beautiful countryside, you'll drive past some historic sites and districts on the way to Dunn's River Falls. Described as a living and growing phenomenon, the waterfall continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock, the result of precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river, as it flows over the falls. The small dome-shaped cataracts are usually associated with thermal spring activity found in limestone caves. Experience the thrill of climbing the waterfall, in a human chain led by experienced Falls Guides. Pause at the 'massage parlour' and experience the soothing effects of the water as it cascades over the rocks, to the sea.

For the less adventurous, view the activities of the more intrepid from the "safe" vantage point of the terrace or deck. For those who enjoy Mother Nature's gifts, lose yourself in the lush tropical foliage of ferns, bamboos, ginger lilies, crotons, orchids, a variety of palms and breadfruit trees. After visiting the falls, you will be treated to a delicious Jamaican buffet lunch, served in the beautiful garden setting of the Ruins Restaurant before the return drive to Montego Bay. A sample of the buffet menu which is subject to change may include jerk chicken, jerk pork, curried chicken, escoveitched fish/fish in batter, sweet & sour chicken, hot & spicy wings and various side dishes.

Step off the ship and on to one of Dunedin town's classic Heritage buses enroute to the Iconic Dunedin Railway Station. Once you arrive, you will board one of the world's most scenic railways as you journey through the spectacular Taieri River Gorge. Welcomed aboard by a friendly crew, settle into your carriage, and get ready for a breathtaking trip into a landscape only accessible by this train. First tracing Otago Harbor, then traversing suburban Dunedin and a fertile plain, you'll soon be climbing into the sheer cliff faces and plunging ravines of the Taieri River Gorge. Much of the ride takes place high atop soaring stone-and-lattice viaducts that early engineers, masons, and railway gangs somehow managed to build through extremely challenging wild New Zealand terrain. The fact that they succeeded is a true marvel - which you get to experience firsthand today. As you relax and watch in awe, your carriage will pass one unspoiled panorama after another, winding its way through the gorge over dramatic bridges suspended high above the placid river below, and through no fewer than 10 tunnels carved out of solid bedrock. You'll enjoy a morning tea and light picnic style boxed lunch while on board. Your journey concludes at Dunedin Railway Station, a suitably grand Victorian landmark.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Settle back and experience one of the world’s most breathtakingly scenic railway journeys.
• Travel over countless latticed-steel and stone bridges and through 10 tunnels as you traverse the rugged Taieri River Gorge.
• Take it all in from the civilized comfort of your carriage with morning tea and a light lunch served.
• Disembark at Dunedin’s landmark Victorian railway station, where you can opt to remain in town awhile or return straightaway to the port.

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

From the pier, a scenic drive takes you to Rose Hall Great House, an outstanding relic of colonial times with a fascinating and detailed history of dark rumor and intrigue. The story of Annee Palmer, the mistress of Rose Hall Great House, is not easily forgotten! It is said that Annee Palmer had three husbands during her reign as mistress of the Rose Hall Plantation and each of them died a sudden and violent death. She gained a reputation for extreme cruelty and her nickname "White Witch of Rose Hall". Annie was feared by the slaves who lived on and worked the plantation. She ruled with an iron fist, and defiance or even perceived insolence was answered with public whippings, torture in the dungeon, or even death.

According to local legend, Annee's restless spirit still roams the grounds, following her untimely death at the hands of a cunning slave. Accounts of her enduring presence have been featured on the TV programs "Ghost Hunters International" and World's Scariest Places". Departing the Great House, pause for a while at the Shoppes at Rose Hall where you'll have an opportunity to purchase that special souvenir to remind you of your visit to Jamaica. Crafts, exquisite gems, jewelry, watches, coffee, spices, sauces, clothing and alluring perfumes are all part of the available duty-free shopping. The tour continues to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville by the sea, in the heart of Montego Bay's hip strip for a cool tropical drink before arriving back at the ship.

Discover two highlights of Curacao, the Hato Caves and the historic city center of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a short drive, you'll arrive at the impressive Hato Caves. It is home to beautiful limestone formations, the famous Madonna statue and a colony of seldom seen long nose fruit bats. The variety of stalagmites and stalactites are impressive. It is fun to join the guide in recognizing animals or figures in the various stone formations. Relax on the drive back to the city, for your walking tour.

First you'll visit the Curacao marketplace where the locals shop for food and ingredients for their home cooked meals. On the way to Fort Amsterdam, home to the Governor of Netherland Antilles, you'll pass the beautifully colored, picture perfect merchant houses on the quay of the harbor entrance. The last part of you walk will be to cross the floating bridge that connects both sides of the city. If the bridge is open, due to ship traffic, ferries will be used instead. Your guide will escort you back to the ship, right through historic Rif Fort. This area offers upscale shopping, dining and entertainment centers and you're able to spend time here at your leisure.

OVERVIEW

Delve into the life and times of reggae legend Bob Marley by visiting his birthplace in the mountain hamlet Nine Mile, followed by a classic Jamaican lunch. A wonderfully scenic drive inland will bring you to Nine Mile, whose main attraction is the singer's former home, now known as the Bob Marley Mausoleum and Museum. While touring the modest two-room residence, you learn about Marley's humble upbringing and Rastafarian beliefs and see the stone pillow that he rested his head on for inspiration. It must have worked, as some of Marley's gold records and awards are displayed in the museum. At the mausoleum behind the house, you will see Marley's final resting place in the family cemetery. Afterwards, at the Reggae Hill resort, which overlooks an idyllic spot on the White River, you will enjoy a lunch of Jamaican specialties. If inclined, you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Nine Mile, the birthplace and final resting place of reggae legend Bob Marley.
• Gain insight into Marley’s view of the world and his musical inspirations.
• Enjoy a lunch of traditional Jamaican dishes at the Reggae Hill resort, a tropical haven.
• Take a dip in the White River and shop if time permits.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Travel to the west side of Curacao on a one-of-a -kind, hand painted tropical bus. The Beach Express takes you to the other side of the island where nature reigns and the beaches are unspoiled. Enjoy the scenery as your host provides you with interesting information about Curacao. You'll pass by historic plantation houses, panoramic mountain views, salt flats and possibly wildlife and flamingos. After a fun and relaxing ride you'll have a photo stop before arriving at local beach where you can enjoy swimming in the beautiful Caribbean waters, snorkeling or just relaxing.

This definitive tour of Kaohsiung presents attractions that reveal the very fabric of life in this thriving southern Taiwanese city. You'll travel to the massive Spring and Autumn Pavilions, a complex completed in 1951 and embrace the breathtaking sight that shows the importance of legend in Taiwanese culture.

As religious expression is very prevalent in Kaohsiung you'll also visit two of its most popular Taiwanese temples, the Confucius Temple and Chiming Tang. Completed in 1976, the Confucius Temple is Taiwan's largest Confucian temple and expresses a deep reverence for China's beloved sage. Chiming Tang was constructed in the 1970s. Several different gods are worshipped here, including humanized gods of influential historic figures, such as Confucius.

Head to the Chijin Old Street for a glimpse of daily life in Kaohsiung and where the city was first developed. Colorful, ornate temples such as the 300-year-old Tian Ho abound, and the many small shops are always abuzz. As you stroll along the street exploring the many sights, shops and stands, you will no doubt feel the friendly townspeople and the inviting ambience that is found here.

Visit the amazing Rainforestation Nature Park, take a journey on a World War II Army Duck and attend a performance by local Pamagirri Aboriginal dancers.

A brief drive will take you to Rainforestation Nature Park, located on 100 acres of World Heritage rainforest. You'll board your amphibious Army Duck, for a ride along the water's edge, where you may see turtles, fish, eels and other wildlife.

Enjoy a performance by local Pamagirri Aboriginal dancers who depict animals, food-gathering and hunting via their music and dance. You'll proceed Kuranda, a village nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Established as a railway station in the mid-1800s, today this colorful town offers markets, cafés, and restaurants. After a brief overview, you'll have some free time to further explore on your own. Enjoy scenic views on your return drive and a brief panoramic tour of Cairns.

Discover the lesser-known, sometimes sordid history of St. George on a walking tour, the perfect prelude to a relaxing respite on one of the island’s most picturesque beaches.

After tendering to St. George, you will begin a leisurely walking tour of town, which was founded in 1612 and became the island's first capital. As you meander the cobblestone streets and quaint lanes, you will soon understand why UNESCO designated St. George a World Heritage site for being an authentic example of an English colonial town in the New World. The ambiance and 17th- and 18th-century architecture exudes history.

Along the way, you may pass the Tucker House Museum and St. Peter's Church, the oldest continually used church in the western hemisphere. You will notice that many of the alleys, such as Needle & Thread and Barber's, are named for former trades that flourished here. Shinbone Alley refers to the colonial soldiers that overindulged in its pubs and crawled out on their hands and knees, banging their shinbones.

A different side of Bermuda awaits you at Tobacco Bay Beach, where you will linger over lunch before heading for the shore. Now a national park, the beach was named for the wild tobacco that grew here when survivors of a shipwreck came ashore in 1609.

Feel free to swim in the shallow waters or snorkel along the dramatic limestone formations. Colorful parrotfish, sergeant majors and grouper are commonly spotted in the clear seas.

Explore the region by stepping back in time and experiencing the local sites on this leisurely tour.See interesting displays and the region's historic sugar and cattle industries at the Proserpine Historical Museum and learn the history of this area, from its first inhabitants to the early Europeans and post war settlers.

Head to the Proserpine Historical Museum, located approximately 20 minutes inland from Airlie Beach and winner of several prestigious awards. Here you can relive the days when sugar was the area's lifeblood. You'll see exhibits highlighting the Whitsunday region's historic sugar and cattle industries, past wars and life in the area. You will also learn about the coffee industry which flourished in the late 1800's until it took a back seat to tea drinking. Now, coffee is back and is more popular than ever.

Continue to the beautifully located Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill to enjoy some beach views. The setting is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a morning tea with views across to Airlie and a peaceful feel. Enjoy a buffet of premium assorted cakes, local produce fruit platters and Australian Damper together with your juice, tea or coffee.

On you return to Airlie Beach, enjoy a brief city sightseeing drive passing through Cannonvale as well as the local shopping district of Airlie Beach. You will have the option to disembark at the local markets to pick up some homemade souvenirs and then make your own way back to the pier.

Darwin has a rich and colorful history and this tour highlights some important sights that help chronicle its past. Your fascinating journey starts with a visit to the Fannie Bay Gaol Museum - Darwin's original penal institution. You'll learn how from 1883 through 1979, the old gaol, with its crude facilities and a chilling old gallows section, has served as a grim reminder of what life there was really like.

Australian history was shaped by another phase, when colonial settlers traveled across the globe in the hope of finding a better world, eager to explore new lands in search of personal and financial growth. You'll stop at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, to complete your exploration of Darwin's heritage.

The gallery houses a comprehensive display of Indigenous art and artifacts that reveal much about the various Aboriginal groups. You'll also find an excellent display of Aboriginal, South-East Asian and Oceanic art, along with a permanent collection of major Australian fine art.

You will also enjoy a drive through the city with photo stops at the Darwin Botanical Gardens and East Point.

This tour visits the amazing Knossos archaeological site, proving the existence of the Minoan civilization. The Palace of Knossos was the largest and most spectacular of Minoan palaces. It was the court of the legendary King Minos, father of the mythological Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. The original palace was built around 2,000 B.C., and after being destroyed by an earthquake, was replaced with a more complex one, which strongly resembled a labyrinth. Your guided tour will take you through the marvelous ruins of the ancient complex, restored by Sir Arthur Evans. His work has been criticized by some for its modernity, but it does help you visualize the palace as it was, when it served as the administrative center for the region. There will be over an hour of free time for you to stroll at leisure in the town of Heraklion. Perhaps visit the Fountain of Morosini near the colorful fruit and vegetable market, or shop for some Cretan souvenirs.