Alaska Cruises: Excursions

Enjoy the highlights of Victoria and visit the spectacular Butchart Gardens. Departing Ogden Point your guide will point out the highlights including Majestic Parliament Buildings, Empress Hotel, Royal BC Museum, Beacon Hill Park and the exclusive residential districts of the Uplands and Oak Bay with their manicured grounds and gardens, Bastion Square, and Chinatown (the oldest in Canada) including the "Gates of Harmonious Interest". At Butchart Gardens, see how the Butchart family transformed a barren rock quarry into what is now one of the world’s best-known horticultural attractions, covering more than 55 acres.

The gardens are a lush paradise of flowers, rare trees and winding paths and were created more than 100 years ago. Enjoy the cascading fountains and footbridges connecting you to the many themed gardens, including the beautiful Sunken Garden, the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden. When darkness falls, you'll be treated to an evening wonderland of lighting displays illuminating the gardens. Multi-language maps will assist you on your self-guided tour. As an added bonus, guests visiting on Saturdays in July and August will be treated to the Butchart Gardens fireworks display, choreographed to music.

Note: Order of sights may vary. Walking time and distance is at each guest's discretion. The gardens are stunning in the evening when illuminated by thousands of hidden lights. Garden illuminations offered when daylight hours shorten.

This combination excursion gives you the opportunity to ride a historical train that has been in service for more than 50 years and participate on a scenic ride through rural countryside and tropical fields. Afterwards, board your motorcoach en route to the Tarcoles River where you’ll go on a boat and explore the spectacular natural scenery this river has to offer. The river and mangroves attract many types of bird wildlife such as toucans, spoonbills, herons, egrets, jacanas, pelicans, scarlet macaws, iguanas and crocodiles. Upon your return enjoy some live marimba melodies and enjoy a delicious buffet of seasonal fruits and tropical refreshments. Enough time will be provided to select crafts made by local artisans before returning to your ship. Note: This excursion might operate in reverse order. Please wear casual clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring a camera and raingear. Wildlife sightings while common cannot be guaranteed. Advance notice is needed for guests in wheelchairs; motorized scooters cannot be handled, only foldable wheelchairs. The type of walking required is along even roads and compact gravel trails. A free bird guide will be provided at the beginning of the river cruise, which will allow participants to identify any feathered creatures seen along the way. less

Your day begins with a scenic drive to Palmares County. Along the way, a knowledgeable guide will provide you with fascinating information regarding Costa Rica's culture and history and give you the chance to ask questions. Once in Palmares, you’ll see Costa Rica’s most fascinating churches, and will have the opportunity to visit them and learn of their uniqueness. Your next stop will be Doka Estate, located at an altitude of 4,500 feet above sea level. This beautiful estate and coffee plantation was declared a historical and architectural heritage site by the Costa Rican Government. Your guide will relay the magic of coffee from seed to cup. Enjoy a typical buffet at La Cajuela restaurant surrounded by beautiful gardens with mountain views. You’ll have free time to visit souvenir shops and take home some special coffee products. Your last stop will be La Garita, a magnificent botanical garden featuring a learning greenhouse, flower showroom and a bird area of scarlet macaws, blue and gold macaws and cockatoos. Note: Wear comfortable shoes, long pants and a light jacket; bring sunscreen and sunglasses. less

Your day of discovery begins when you board you air conditioned transportation. You’ll pass by buildings and homes featuring Colonial, Republican and Moorish styles and your guide explains the many influences that came to be in Cartagena. Your first stop will be 'Punta Icacos', near the fishing village of La Boquilla. Here, you’ll be greeted by local fishermen who earn a living by traditional means of fishing. These fishermen will explain the process of making, repairing and casting the nets, as well as provide a demonstration. You’ll even have the opportunity to learn the art of throwing the net if you wish or you can also sip on fresh coconut milk or coconut water while you watch your companions cast the net. On your way back to Cartagena your guide will provide you with more information regarding Columbian history including the "Vallenato". The Vallenato is a traditional type of music typically using an accordion, flute and drum. Next, stop at Rancho Grande where you’ll be greeted and entertained by your own band of Vallenato. Sample a traditional Columbian snack or "frito" if you whish before making your way to the Emerald Museum. Here, you’ll see craftsmen at work as well as learn the history and cultural importance of the precious stone. Then, visit the famous walled or Old City and Portal de Dulce, an area where local vendors sell the handmade Columbian candies, famous around the world. Take a sweet sample before continuing your walk through the Plaza de la Aduana and Simon Bolivar Square. Along the way your guide will point out areas of interest as well as information on the many churches, building and monuments before you begin your free time in the colonial city. Feel free to stroll along the beautiful streets, browse the many shops and admire the beautiful architecture and flower covered balconies before returning to your ship. Note: Bring comfortable shoes and casual clothes. Wear sunscreen. Participants must be able to stand and walk unassisted as well as easily navigate narrow pathways. The roads to the village can be bumpy. less