Europe Cruises: Excursions

There is no better way to explore Baja’s desert and ocean beauty than from aboard your safe and fun Honda Big Red 4 x 4 Mini Jeep®. Along your ride, you’ll see cacti over 20 feet high, towering over the trail. Stops will be made along the way to inform you about the desert flora and fauna as well as at a lookout point over the Pacific Ocean. Take your camera as you’ll have many photo opportunities on this excursion. Your drive will take you to a seaside ranch along the mighty Pacific Ocean where you’ll receive instructions and equipment. Hop on your assigned vehicle and follow your guide for a glimpse into Baja’s rugged terrain. Your 4 x 4 Mini Jeep® will take you effortlessly over hilltops and through river washes. Upon returning to the ranch you’ll have a few minutes to explore the traditional desert adobe houses before returning to the pier. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age to operate vehicle. Maximum weight per person is 275 lbs. Due to the nature of this tour, pregnant women or guests with a heart condition, knee pain or injury, spinal and/or neck problems should not participate. Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes and bring sunscreen. Signature on liability waiver is required. less

A fabled resort for pleasure seekers even in ancient Rome, Capri has earned a legendary reputation as the 'island of love.' A speedy ride across the Bay of Naples takes you to the Marina Grande Harbour on Capri. Here, a minibus will take you to Anacapri where you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenic views. Visit Villa San Michele, and then have some free time before you continue to the town of Capri for lunch. Following lunch, enjoy a stroll to the piazzetta, along old cobblestone streets and to the Augustus Gardens. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views and have time to look around on your own before taking the minibus down for the return ride to Naples. Note: The tour will not operate for Norwegian Jade winter sailings. During summer months expect extreme heat and overcrowded venues. We recommend that you dress in layers and bring bottled water. less

Board your air-conditioned transportation for the approximately 45-minute drive to the infamous mud volcano. On the way to the volcano, pass by the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Fortress situated outside the walled city. Here, you’ll have the opportunity enjoy a panoramic view of the old city. Upon arrival at the mud volcano an orientation to the rustic facilities will be provided. A mud volcano is created by natural gases emitted by decaying organic matter underground. As the mud is pushed upwards by the gas, it deposits and hardens above ground and forms what appears to be a huge anthill. As more mud oozes out and spills over the edge it grows in size, gradually forming what you can see today: a miniature 50-foot volcano with a rich, creamy, mud crater at the top. If you have never been in a mud volcano before, then the initial feeling of mud on your skin is unusual to say the least. When you feel like you are about to become one with the earth, just climb back down the staircase and stroll down to the nearby freshwater lake where you can wash the mud off. Note: The temperature of the mud is very warm to hot, therefore those who are susceptible to heat must not participate on this tour. It's said that the mud has healing properties; however the truth to this statement is not proven. To reach the top of the mud volcano where the pool of mud is located, requires the negotiation of numerous, steep steps. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and adequate sun protection. less

Take this tour for a unique opportunity to visit one of the most recognized landmarks together with access to an area closed off to most in Topkapi Palace. Begin your tour with a visit to the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet, better known as the Blue Mosque because of the over 21,000 blue-green Iznik tiles used for its interior decoration. Continue with a visit to Topkapi Palace, once a residential complex for royals and the central nerve of the empire, which now functions as a museum. As you walk the grounds, through courtyards and buildings, see the collection of Chinese porcelain and Turkish treasures including the 86-carat spoon maker diamond and emerald dagger. Strictly closed to outsiders, you’ll be provided a ticket to enter the Harem section of Topkapi Palace. As you enter, envision the colorful and lively old days in the now empty rooms where a mysterious history fascinates many. You’ll have a chance to explore the exotic atmosphere of the covered part for a brief period of time. You’ll also visit the open and modern section which offers the best artworks and most reliable shopping. Here, you’ll see a presentation on the unique art of Turkish carpets and be given additional time to shop. Enjoy some complimentary refreshments while you shop and stroll in the handicraft store. Note: This tour is available for Norwegian Jade winter sailings only. Participants are required to remove their shoes in order to enter the mosque and are provided with an environmentally friendly bag to store them. As this tour visits a place of worship, please dress respectfully: no bare shoulders or exposed knees. Should the Blue Mosque be closed to visitors due to religious festivities, you’ll visit another historical mosque. Some sections of Topkapi Palace may be temporarily under renovation and closed to the public. There is approximately 2 miles of walking over uneven surfaces and some inclines including an approximate 20 steps on this tour. less

Hidden deep in the heart of the Sierra Mountains, this UNESCO protected reserve is home to abundant wildlife, rich flora and fauna and a completely unforgettable adventure. Using only the safest internationally-approved equipment, your highly experienced and entertaining guide will take you on an unforgettable journey though the stunning nature of Boca de la Sierra. After an approximately 80 minute scenic journey along the coastline of Los Cabos, a warm welcome awaits for you at the rustic base camp. Once suited up, take a short journey on board your original Unimog vehicle deep into the Canyon de la Zorra. Fly across open canyons and emerald green streams on double safety zip lines. Scale the rock face as you ascend specially designed climbing walls, race your friends on the tandem zip line, and prepare yourself for the ultimate adventure - a 98-foot rappel that will take you to the base of the canyon floor. Enjoy a well earned rest back at the base camp with light refreshments and a chance to view your professional photos. Return to your ship with long lasting memories of this truly unique outdoor adventure! Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age, weigh no more than 250 lbs. and be at least 4 feet tall. Must be in good health, and be able to walk uphill for 10 minutes and climb a steep ladder. This tour is not for guests with back, neck, heart or respiratory condition, seizures, physical disabilities or pregnant women. Bottled water, snack, lockers, gear and instructions are included. Guests are not allowed to bring their cameras; there will be professional photographs taken onboard. Participants will be asked to sign safety waiver before participating in the tour. Travel time is approximately 80 minutes each way. less