Alaska Cruises: Excursions

Board your Zodiac, skippered by an experienced eco-guide. After a brief safety lecture and orientation, take an exhilarating ride to Land’s End, past Lover’s Beach, the sea lion colony and the famous arch. Your first snorkel site will be at Chileno Cove, approximately 20 minutes along the coast. After re-boarding your Zodiac, you’ll head over to Santa Maria Cove for your second snorkeling. The transparent waters at both coves team with colorful fish, including Moorish idols, puffers and Cortez angelfish. You’ll spend approximately 45 minutes at each site. After your snorkel experience, your Zodiac transports you back to the tender pier. Enjoy the incredible view heading back into the harbor with a view of your ship, Land's End and the coastline of Cabo. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. The snorkeling sites may be altered due to weather and water conditions. This tour is not for pregnant women or guests with knee, neck, back or heart problems, as the ride can be rough. A signed waiver is required. Snorkeling is from the boat and guests must climb small aluminum ladder to get back into boat. Wear your swim suit and bring a towel. Sunglasses and sun protection are suggested. All snorkel equipment, safety vest, instruction, supervision and bottled water/soft drinks are included. Wetsuits are not included. less

This "reduced environmental footprint" experience will appeal to all of your senses. See Victoria’s highlights, smell the fragrant flowers at Butchart Gardens and tantalize your taste buds with an organic gourmet picnic. While your knowledgeable guide points out some of Victoria’s most interesting sights, you'll travel in comfort aboard a B100 coach fueled by biodiesel, made from recycled waste cooking oil collected from cruise ships visiting Victoria. With views of Beacon Hill Park as well as rolling landscapes and farmland en route, you'll arrive at Canada’s famed National Historic Site, Butchart Gardens. The gardens have been transformed from a lifeless rock quarry to a horticultural masterpiece over 100 years ago. Stroll at your own pace through 55 acres of beautiful blooms and themed gardens.

Upon arrival you'll be directed to your picnic site (the residence lawn) and provided with your wicker basket and gourmet picnic prepared from fresh and locally grown organic produce. You may choose to enjoy your picnic on the lawns (over a ground cover) or at a picnic table. As an added bonus, guests visiting on Saturdays in July and August will be treated to the Butchart Gardens fireworks display, choreographed to music. Norwegian Pearl sailings only. On your return, enjoy a narrated sightseeing tour of Victoria’s downtown area, including Chinatown, the historic Empress Hotel and the picturesque Parliament buildings. Your participation on this excursion will help support the local James Bay Community School, allowing vulnerable families the opportunity for their children to be able to partake in youth getaways & summer sports camps. Approximate time at Butchart Gardens is 3 hours.

Enjoy a short drive to Dolphin Cove, where you are met by our friendly hostesses and given a complimentary drink. There you will participate in a brief orientation and then enter the world of nature’s most fascinating creatures; The Dolphins. Get to know the animals as you interact with them in deep water. Experience the thrill of "riding” the dolphin belly to belly. Dance, sing, play and even enjoy a kiss or two. You will then be escorted to The "Pearly" white sandy beach at Dolphin Cove where you will find excitement, fun and games. The Caribbean's best kept secret, Dolphin Cove's exclusive, private "Pearly White Sandy Beach" is surrounded by tropical vegetation. Relax to the sounds of the Caribbean Music while you enjoy Unlimited Rum Punch and food. Fun, games and entertainment - complimentary beach chairs. Take a plunge in the crystal clear Caribbean Sea and indulge in the warmth of the sun. Relax and enjoy all the wonders of Dolphin Cove. Watch the dolphins at play in their natural habitat, the Caribbean sea. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush tropical jungle and get an up close experience with our beautiful and friendly birds, snakes and iguanas. Mingle with and feed the colorful free flying lovebirds in the bird aviary. Interact with exotic sea creatures in the touch tank display. Enjoy a hands-on experience on how to make unique pottery at Wassi Arts at Dolphin Cove. Watch in amazement as a local wood carver makes ordinary pieces of wood come to life. Visit "Little Port Royal" a replica of Jamaica's most famous pirate "Haunt" and witness pirates roaming through town. Browse through the largest gift shops of any attraction in Jamaica, stocked with the widest range of dolphin souvenirs; visit our jewelry store and craft market for locally hand crafted items. View the rambunctious and hilarious shark show and watch the stingrays in their lagoon as they gracefully glide by. Sample the world famous Blue Mountain Coffee and liquors at our very own. Have your hair braided and watch our local fashion show. Learn about our Jamaican culture and enjoy the amenities. Shuttle buses are available at 10-minute intervals to return you to the ship and optional shopping at your convenience. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. less