Alaska Cruises: Excursions

This tour offers the very best of Victoria, combining the city’s unique highlights with a visit to the world-famous Butchart Gardens. Take in Chinatown and the Gates of Harmonious Interest, along with the Old Town and scenic Marine Drive. 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, created more than 100 years ago. Enjoy the cascading fountains and footbridges connecting the many themed gardens, including the beautiful Sunken Garden, the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden. A map will assist you with your self-guided tour.

Note: Walking time and distance is at each guest’s discretion. This tour is only available for guests on the Norwegian Jewel.

Enjoy the highlights of Victoria and a visit to the spectacular Butchart Gardens on this shore excursion. Departing Ogden Point your guide will point out the highlights, which nclude the Majestic Parliament Buildings, Empress Hotel, Royal BC Museum, Beacon Hill Park, 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. Created over 100 years ago, this once-private garden is spectacular. Enjoy the cascading fountains and footbridges connecting you to the many themed gardens, including the beautiful Sunken Gardens, the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden. A map will assist you with your self-guided tour.

Note: Order of sights may vary. Walking time and distance is at each guest's discretion. This tour is only available for guests on the Norwegian Jewel.

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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

On this leisurely exploration, you’ll see dramatic scenery of desert terrain, breathtaking seascapes and rugged coastline, marked by unusual rock formations. Visit a local glass-blowing factory to observe native craftsmen at work and to purchase glassware. Have some refreshments at a scenic stop while you enjoy the panoramic view of Cabo San Lucas Bay. Set course to the picturesque town of San Jose del Cabo to take a guided tour of the commons and the Jesuit mission church. You’ll have some free time to explore before taking a ride to the heart of Cabo San Lucas, the Zocalo. Here, engage in an enlightening chat about the original settlement of Cabo and the indigenous flora of the region. Finalize by tour at the old opera house, now converted to a popular local restaurant. Here you’ll enjoy a free tequila sample before returning to your ship. Note: Since your final stop is just a short walking distance from the pier; you’ll have the option to stay in town to browse in the small shops and return to the pier on your own. 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