Pacific Coastal 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.

This city tour takes you to an unforgettable collection of beauty spots in and around Ocho Rios. First, you’ll visit the island's premier attraction, Dunn's River Falls. It is a place of unique beauty, where the river cascades over a giant limestone staircase to a white-sand beach and the warm Caribbean Sea. You may choose to climb the icy waterfalls with the aid of an experienced falls guide, just simply relax at the base of the waterfalls, or swim in the sea. Next, you’ll be taken on a guided stroll through the groves of trees and plants at the Shaw Park Botanical Gardens. The manicured grounds are beautified by a reflecting pond, gazebos and a natural waterfall. A final stop is made in the town for shopping before returning to your ship. Note: Order of stops may be changed to avoid crowds. The Dunn’s River Falls are the highlight of Jamaica and tend to be very congested. All guests participating in a tour that visits the falls should wear foot protection that can get wet. River socks are available for rent at the falls. The rocks at the falls are slippery. Climbing the falls is optional and at your own risk. Participants who do not wish to climb the falls may enjoy the small beach at the base. The walk to the beach is on a slope with many stairs, therefore participants should be in reasonably good health. less

A great way to get acquainted with Huatulco is with a visit to the nice downtown area of La Crucecita, the evergreen Central Park (Zocalo) and the beautiful church dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, host of the world’s largest painting of the Virgin on its ceiling. Several stores are waiting to offer you a wide variety of handicrafts including black pottery from the valleys of Oaxaca, handmade woven rugs and carpets milled on traditional looms, and the world-famous 'alebrijes' allegories of fantastic animals. Typical products, like Mezcal (the original Oaxacan version of the well-known Tequila), chocolate rivaling with the best Swiss-made ones, coffee, regional cheese, clothes, wines and liquors, and much more are widely available. To complete the land journey, take a breathtaking view of the Bay of Tangolunda, the luxury resort area. Proceed to the marina of Santa Cruz to board a catamaran for one of the highlights of Huatulco, its wonderful shoreline, composed of several small bays with more than 36 beaches scattered between rough cliffs and mountains. Leaving the Santa Cruz Bay, you’ll pass your ship and head eastward to see the Bay of Chahue featuring three beautiful beaches and a Marina for private sailboats and yachts. Continue to La Bufadora (the blowhole) and take a closer look at the natural features of this paradisiacal area and hear the ocean’s voice roaring or be surprised with the massive natural Indian face, engraved through time by the sculpturing action of the waves and the wind - the Stone Face. Move on to the secluded Bay of Organo and the more commercial Bay of Maguey. Note: To fully participate, this tour requires leisurely walking over mostly even surfaces. There is a limited number of steps, some cobblestones, uneven surfaces and some standing for extended periods of time. Catamaran is not wheelchair accessible. Bottled water is available on the bus, while water, soft drinks and beer are available aboard the catamaran. The tour itinerary may vary due to weather conditions. less

Las Caletas was once the private home of the famous film director John Huston, who considered it one of the most beautiful places in the world. Today, Las Caletas is an exclusive tropical beach hideaway where you can enjoy an extraordinary day of sun, fun, and adventure. This lovely beach was named by Trip Advisor as one of the top 4 secluded beaches in the World for 2012. Only accessible by sea, this well-secluded nature preserve stands out against a steep, jungle-clad backdrop of tropical forest in an isolated cove on the southern shores of Banderas Bay. As you cruise towards this tropical paradise aboard a first-class catamaran, you'll enjoy the most fantastic coastal scenery that Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Once arriving at Las Caletas, you can choose between pure relaxation or gentle exploration in the unspoiled natural setting of this tropical beach hideaway. If relaxing is on your personal agenda, you can kick-back on the beach, relax in the shade on a comfortable hammock, or indulge in a therapeutic body massage or facial at the hilltop Spa (additional charge). As you relax and unwind, the gentle lapping of the surf on the private golden beach beckons you to take a closer look at the calm, clear waters of this isolated cove. Throughout the day, bilingual eco-guides offer snorkeling and kayaking tours giving everyone a chance to explore in a fun and relaxed way. On land, you can take a Paella cooking lesson, discover the prolific flora and bird life on a free guided nature walk through the jungle, orchid gardens and interactive parrot center. For the youngest explorers (4-11) there is the kid’s adventure camp with zip lines, a climbing wall, animal encounters and an exciting donkey ride. Note: Tour includes moderate walking on uneven surfaces and numerous steps. Please wear your swimsuit underneath comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, a hat and a towel. less

Victoria is the gateway to the Puget Sound, Gulf Islands, and San Juan Islands, and is home to three resident pods of Orca Whales. This tour is designed to take you as up close and personal as permitted with the whales and sea life as they explore their natural feeding grounds along the shores British Columbia’s rugged coastline. You’ll board a motorcoach for a short transfer over to the whale watching vessel departure point. The vessels are equipped with restrooms, and offer covered as well as open viewing locations. As you travel to the viewing location, be sure to enjoy the majesty of the coastline and mountains surrounding you. This area is a playground for many of the world’s wealthiest yacht owners, and multi-million dollar yachts can often be seen cruising through the waters. Note: Orcas are regularly seen, but not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women and people with back problems. less

Experience the real Jamaica in our zebra-striped safari Jeeps. We’ll take you up to the highest viewpoint, Murphy Hill (2,000 feet above sea level) to look down upon Ocho Rios, the cruise ship pier, the Blue Mountains, and, on a clear day, Cuba. You’ll pass through small villages, where you’ll learn the history of old churches and see local marketplaces. During this tour, you’ll visit one of Jamaica’s largest estates, observing a working cattle station and a small coffee plantation. Taste and learn about our fruits and Jamaica’s great history. The highlight of your tour will be the Dunn’s River Falls, where you can climb the 600-foot cascades. Get Wet! Enjoy! Yeah Mon! You have just seen the best Jamaica has to offer. Note: Participants must be at least 6 years of age and weigh no more than 300 lbs. This tour is not recommended for guests with heart, neck/ back problems or pregnant women. Tour sequence may vary. 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

Start your tour of the beautiful city of Cartagena with a photo stop at San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, situated outside the walled city and considered the largest Spanish fort in the New World. Continue to the Old City and wander through narrow cobblestone streets and squares while you admire the Colonial architecture, balconies and old churches. Your next stop will be the Gold Museum where you'll see beautiful displays of valuable pre-Colombian gold artifacts and some of the old ceramics in the Americas. You'll also learn about the Zenu nation’s amazing hydraulic engineering achievements. Enjoy a folkloric show during your visit to the Navy Museum which was established in 1986. Here, you’ll find historic military efforts of Cartagena, see the wealth of historical artifacts, maritime life and naval history of Colombia. A bottle of water or soft drink will be served upon arrival at the museum. Before returning to your ship, take home some souvenirs from Pierino Gallo shopping center and enjoy panoramic sightseeing through Bocagrande, the modern part of the city. Note: Casual clothes and comfortable shoes are recommended. Wear sunscreen and bring your camera. less

Enjoy a countryside drive along the coast to one of the most picturesque places in Jamaica, the 'Land of Wood and Water', for a unique Jamaican experience. See the lifestyles of rural and urban Jamaica en route to the Martha Brae rafting village. Upon arrival, and after you are greeted with a welcome tropical drink, stroll the beautiful lawns and visit the herb garden, which is a presentation of Jamaican herbs that are famous for their medicinal and healing properties, prior to embarkation. Picture yourself on a bamboo raft built for two, gliding slowly down a river that meanders gently through whispering groves of bamboo and ferns, as you listen to the chatter of birds and the soft chop-chop of the raftman’s pole. As your raft makes its way pass shaded banks and dappled sunlight, the raft Captain will tell you the legend of 'Matibereon' as the mild river breeze washes over you. Float along the river and relax in an atmosphere of tranquility on the three-mile journey before arriving at the Rafter’s Rest, where the bus awaits for the return trip to Ocho Rios. Note: Participants must not weigh more than 280 lbs. less

Huatulco is known for its picturesque bays and sun-drenched Oaxacan coastline. Embark in a comfortable motorized catamaran-style vessel for a relaxing cruise from the harbor to Tangolunda Bay. View the area's natural beauty and surrounding resorts before passing by unusual rock formations at Organo Bay. Here, a stop will be made for swimming, relaxing time and some refreshments. Your cruise will continue to the tranquil Maguey and Chahue Bay's; then, proceed to Santa Cruz Bay, with its beautiful beaches and see the impressive blowhole located nearby. Your guide will provide informative commentary throughout your bay cruise. Note: Participants must be in good health. Swimming is recommended for guests of 250 Lbs. or less. Wear comfortable walking shoes and light cotton clothing. Bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and a camera. To swim, we recommend to wear swimsuit under clothing and to bring a towel from your ship. less

Your sightseeing drive through rolling hills, high mountains, plains, valleys, and riverbeds is just part of the gorgeous landscape that make you think of paradise. Costa Rica’s topography is one of the world’s most diverse. You’ll start by heading east to Esparza, a town that has become one of the most picturesque in the Costa Rica’s Central Pacific region. The central park and its church are emblematic of Costa Rica’s hardworking rural towns. Local dancers will greet you at the park with colorful dresses and you’ll enjoy the masquerades and hand-made souvenir exhibitions while you learn about their traditions. Your scenic drive includes some stretches along the Pacific Ocean passing by mango and cashew plantations, farming areas and most certainly seeing some birds along the way, all examples of sustainable living. Take the opportunity to capture unique pictures for back home, while traveling down to sea level, admiring the most breathtaking views. Note: Wear comfortable shoes; bring sunscreen, a hat and light clothing. less

Explore the natural wonder of the Everglades from the comfort of your specially designed airboat. Informative, fun and exciting, this tour takes you deep into one of America’s largest National Parks - the Everglades. Here you’ll come face to face with alligators, exotic birds and native fish while gliding over an endless river of grass. Throughout the approximately 30-minute journey, your experienced guide will introduce you to the unique eco-system of the park as you experience the vast expanse of this saw grass wilderness passing by lush vegetation, mangrove swamps and hardwood hammocks. Known for its rich bird life, particularly large wading birds, be on the look out for the roseate spoonbill, white ibis, wood stork, great blue heron and a variety of egrets. It’s also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles exist side by side. Following your airboat ride you’ll be able to explore the park on your own. The Reptile Show will provide you with an informative, interactive opportunity to become familiar with the features of the American alligators. You may also choose to take the Jungle Trail, which leads to an area featuring American Alligators, and a crocodile exhibit, including various species from around the world. Note: Participants must be able negotiate one large step to board the airboat. This tour is only for guests with flights departing after 4:30 pm from Ft. Lauderdale International Airport. Guests are responsible for ensuring their debark tours are compatible with their departure flight times. Guests have the option to book their flights through our Premium Air Department to ensure that flight departure times do not interfere with debark tours. This tour is not available on Norwegian Sky sailings. less

One of the highlights of Huatulco is definitely its wonderful shoreline, composed of several small bays with more than 36 beaches, scattered between rough cliffs and mountains. Take a closer look from the ocean to the natural features of this paradisiacal area and hear the ocean’s voice roaring at La Bufadora (the blowhole) or be surprised with the massive natural Indian face engraved through time by the sculpting action of the waves and the wind - the Stone Face. Visit the resort area at Tangolunda Bay, where buildings are mixed with the mountains as the background. Change your heading toward the west and check the secluded bays of Organo and Maguey. Continue your journey up to Cacaluta Bay and its island, named Playa del Rey in honor of the King Juan Carlos I of Spain, who fell in love with this bay during his visit to Huatulco. You'll enjoy a couple of hours of fun and pleasure aboard your catamaran and have seen six of the nine most beautiful bays in the world - Huatulco, the Nine Bays of Oaxaca. Note: You will not have the opportunity to swim, since this is only a sightseeing tour. There is no walking involved. Water, soft drinks and fresh fruits of the season are served on board. The catamaran is not wheelchair accessible. Bring suntan lotion. less

Board a replica of a 17th-century old Galleon which will take you on a two-hour cruise around Cartagena’s Bay. A guide will provide you with information on the general history of Cartagena and the sights. While cruising, take in a lovely view of Fort of Manzanillo located at the eastern entrance of the bay. Enjoy the sun and the cool tropical breezes as you forge ahead between the faraway island of Tierra Bomba and the Castillo Grande peninsula. Marvel at the age-old walled city of Cartagena and enjoy a refreshing drink as you get lost in the panoramic views of land and sea. Following, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a traditional folkloric show celebrating the history and culture of Cartagena. Note: There is a total walking distance of 150 yards. This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, sunscreen and camera. less

Nothing says Los Angeles more than "beaches and Beverly Hills"! This tour begins at the Port of Los Angeles, where you’ll join your tour for a scenic coastal drive to Malibu, an exciting beachside community with exclusive multi-million dollar homes, beach cottages and perhaps a sighting of a celebrity or two. Malibu is home to many famous movie stars and musicians.

The next attraction will be Beverly Hills, where you’ll be taken through the most exclusive neighborhoods and onto Rodeo Drive, the home of world famous stores and shops. This is a perfect time to pick up a souvenir or two. Upon departure from Rodeo Drive your next visit will be Santa Monica, for a stop at its popular amusement pier to enjoy the scenery and ocean breezes. The Tour will conclude at Los Angeles International Airport.

Note: Due to the strict city codes enforced by Beverly Hills, travel along residential streets is prohibited. The tour of Beverly Hills will include the major residential streets only and the shopping district of Rodeo Drive. Guests will arrive to the airport by approximately 3:00 pm. This tour is only for guests with domestic flights departing after 4:00 pm and international flights departing after 5:00 pm. Guests are responsible for ensuring their debarkation tours are compatible with their flight departure times. Guests have the option to book their flights through our Premium Air Department to ensure that flight departure times do not interfere with debark tours.

Welcome to Los Angeles! This LA overview tour begins at the Port of Los Angeles where you'll disembark your ship and join this exciting, fact filled excursion through the highlights of the city. You’ll pass the Los Angeles Coliseum, the University of California, the Museum of Natural History and through the downtown area of Los Angeles. Enjoy a stop at Olvera Street, one of the oldest streets in this lovely city. Here you'll have time to stroll through the local Mexican handicraft shops and cafes.

Upon departure from Olvera Street your drive takes you to Hollywood through the one of the main streets, Sunset Boulevard, where you'll have time to see the famous Chinese Theater. This is the location of the hand and foot prints of famous movie stars. Continue on to the famous Farmers Market, where you’ll have free time to purchase lunch (at your own expense) or to shop for gifts or souvenirs. The tour concludes at Los Angeles International Airport. For operational reasons the tour may be altered.

Note: Guests will arrive to the airport by approximately 2:30 pm. This tour is only for guests with domestic flights departing after 4:30 pm and international flights departing after 5:30 pm. Guests are responsible for ensuring their debarkation tours are compatible with their flight departure times. Guests have the option to book their flights through our Premium Air Department to ensure that flight departure times do not interfere with debark tours.

After an orientation to Nanaimo, it's a narrated, scenic drive to Port Alberni's restored 1912 E&N Railway Station. Board carriages that will be pulled by a 1929 Baldwin steam locomotive and tour the city and the surrounding forest. Visit McLean Mill, the only steam-operated sawmill in Canada, and join a guided tour of the original camp and its buildings. Following a brief introduction to Nanaimo you’ll proceed to Port Alberni. En route you’ll start to see huge Douglas Fir trees forming a cathedral-like ceiling and virtually blocking out the sky. Upon arrival at the Port Alberni restored 1912 E&N railway station you’ll be directed to your carriages that will be pulled by a 1929 Baldwin steam locomotive. The track winds through the city of Port Alberni and the surrounding forests for approximately 35 minutes. Upon arrival at the McLean Mill, the only steam-operated sawmill in Canada, you’ll be taken on a guided tour of the original camp and its buildings. Visit the Sawmill powered by a single-piston steam engine from Chattanooga Tennessee built in 1890 followed by refreshments. After your visit, rejoin your guide and motorcoach for the return journey to Nanaimo. less