Transatlantic Cruises: Excursions

Discover the world’s finest coffees at Argovia Plantation and Estate. Founded in 1880, Argovia is one the oldest coffee producers in the region and, one-of-a-kind, family-owned agricultural estate. Travel by air-conditioned van for approximately 90 minutes through the lush forests and breathtaking scenery of the Sierra Madre to the Argovia Plantation and Estate. Your guide will provide in-depth information about the history of the area and its people. Take a short tour of the grounds and learn about the Plantation’s history as well as the history of coffee. Then, discover all the flavors that distinguish Chiapas coffee. Practice observing the tastes and aromas of brewed coffee, learn the art of coffee tasting - and why it's ‘ok’ to slurp! Take a tour of the flower plantation and see these extraordinary specimens of nature’s gifts. Get to know all the diversity of foliage, tropical and exotic flowers, in one small and spectacular botanical garden. Afterwards, browse the gift shops where you can purchase Argovia’s famous coffee to take home with you. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less

Your tour begins upon an air-conditioned sightseeing bus with a knowledgeable driver guide who will regale you with details and anecdotes about the sights you encounter. Drive through the heart of downtown known as Rawson Square. Here you’ll see the House of Parlaiment, Supreme Court, Public Library and other historical buildings central to the life of The Bahamas and its people. Your next stop is Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center, a peaceful retreat, to enjoy over four acres of lush tropical gardens and over 200 birds, reptiles and mammals. The Ardastra Gardens is home to a collection of endangered land animals and features the Bahamas National Bird, the beautiful and exotic Caribbean Flamingo.

You’ll participate in the “Flamingo Experience”, a unique show of the glory and antics of these incredible creatures together with an excellent narration of their story. You’ll also hand-feed the colourful and playful South Pacific Lory Parrots and have numerous photographic opportunities with “Toby” the Cockatoo, “Jackie” the Snake and “Freddy” the Peacock. While walking the Gardens, friendly and informed staff will answer questions while two-legged feathered friends will freely entertain. Enjoy a cool beverage from the Parrot Pit Stop and browse through our eclectic gift shop, Toby's Treasures. Your transport from the time of pick-up until drop-off at Ardastra is fully narrated, giving you an inside look at Bahamian culture.

Note: There is some walking involved; a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Please advise the Shore Excursion team should you have any walking difficulties prior to purchasing this tour. less

Departing from the pier, begin with a scenic drive around the Old Town, which offers magnificent views of the medieval city walls. See the watch-towers, graceful spires, and winding, cobblestone streets. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church inaugurated in 1900 and filled with a stunning array of superb icons. View the exterior of the castle, now the seat of Estonia’s parliament. Built on a cliff, the Upper Town provides a superb vantage point from which to view the red gabled roofs and spires of Lower Town. Your tour continues down both Long and Short Leg Streets to the Lower Town. See the apothecary, which opened in 1422, the Great Guild House, Blackheads Brotherhood House and the 15th century Gothic Town Hall. Enjoy some free time on the grounds of the Dominican convent at a colorful market and St. Catherine’s Arts and Crafts Center, before rejoining your coach and returning to the pier. Note: Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes. Guests must be able to walk over uneven surfaces and cobblestone streets. less

Discover Costa Maya on a custom-made Dune Buggy just as Joe-cool used in the late 60’s. These brand new beach buggies are the best way to experience Costa Maya as you drive down the coastline to your beach getaway. Your experienced guides will give a safety briefing before jumping into your buggy. Then, your first stop will be at the Fisherman’s village where everyone will stare as you cruise on by. Keep your eyes open for the rare birds and resident iguanas. Once you go off-road you’ll end at a secluded beach. Kick back on a hammock, enjoy a complimentary snack and soft drink, go for a swim in the Caribbean Sea, play a game of beach volleyball, take in the rays or stroll down the virgin beach. After the beach, it is time to head on home so get ready to drive back. Note: Participants must be at least 21 years of age and present a valid driver’s license to drive. All Buggies are stick shift. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with heart, respiratory or back conditions. Vehicles accommodate up to four participants and you may be paired up with others. less

Start your 'magical family adventure' in the world’s most beautiful dolphinarium. Located just a short walk from Cozumel’s shopping area, it’s the only place in all the Caribbean where you can interact with dolphins for approximately 40 minutes in the safety of a calm ocean cove. Before entering the water, each participant is briefed by one of our knowledgeable and professional trainers about the dolphins’ behavior as well as the basic guidelines of the program. This program is conducted on a submerged platform and is a very hands-on program, allowing you, in a controlled and safe setting to get an up close and personal anatomy lesson on dolphins as well as learning about their different behaviors. You’ll be able to touch their velvety soft skin, listen to them sing and watch them play. You’ll also receive a kiss and a friendly fin shake. The facility is also home to many other forms of marine and fish life, which can be viewed with safety and ease. Snorkeling after the program is available. Note: Participants must be at least 5 years of age. Time in the water with the dolphins is approximately 40 minutes. It is not possible for passengers with neck or back injuries or pregnant women to participate in this program. less

Although quick paced with a substantial amount of walking and climbing, your day will be extremely rewarding. See the highlights of Florence, including Michelangelo’s David and climb to the top of Pisa’s famous leaning tower. You’ll arrive at Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy the wonderful panorama of Florence from this unique terrace. In the historical center of Florence you will begin your walking tour. Visit the Galleria Dell'Accademia, where you’ll see Michelangelo’s masterpiece: the original statue of David. Visit Piazza del Duomo, the religious center of Florence in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Piazza della Signoria and walk to the Ponte Vecchio for a photo opportunity. You’ll have free time for lunch on your own and shopping. Meet back at your bus and head to Pisa where you'll join your guide for a climb up the 294 steps of the world-famous Leaning Tower. In Miracle Square you will view the Cathedral and Baptistery from the outside and enjoy some free time for photo opportunities or shopping. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age to climb the Tower. No bags are allowed for the Tower visit for security reasons. Even though the tower has reopened to the public, Italian authorities have strict limitations on the amount of persons allowed in per hour/day. The walking distance between the Field of Miracles in Pisa, and the bus parking area is approximately 15 minutes each way. Please note that on public holidays, most major stores will be closed; however, most leather and souvenir shops will be open. Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. The walking tour in Florence will cover approximately 3 miles. Due to the intensity of this tour, we do not recommend this excursion for guests with walking difficulties. The Galleria Dell’Accademia is closed on Mondays; this tour will not be available for guests on the Norwegian Spirit May 11th, 2013 and September 20th, 2013 sailings. less