Transatlantic Cruises: Excursions

It began as a Viking settlement, followed by a market, later became a thriving town, and today it is one of the smallest and most pleasant capital cities in the world. Thorshavn today blends the historical and picturesque with all the features of a modern city. You’ll discover quality restaurants and hotels, conference facilities, interesting museums, discotheques, cinema, live theater, exhibitions, sports facilities, parks, and of course excellent shopping. The town and the surrounding areas are ideal for window shopping and pleasant strolls. As Thorshavn is located in the center of the country, the well-developed bus and ferry service can whisk you away to almost every corner of the Faroes and back again the same day. Your tour will visit Tinganes, which is the historic part of Thorshavn. Enjoy a short stop at Skansin to explore the old fort before driving up to the beautiful Nordic House Cultural Centre. When returning to your ship you’ll pass through the modern sections of the city and stop briefly at a viewpoint overlooking the capital. Note: Approximately 1 1/2 miles of walking on uneven cobblestones will take place on this tour 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

Avignon, a city rich in culture and art, spreading along the banks of the Rhone River was a small but prosperous town when its destiny changed in the early 14th century with the exile of the Popes to France, leading to a century of brilliance. It is surrounded by ramparts and dominated by the Doms Rock, on which stand majestically the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes. The Palace of the Popes was one of the largest buildings of its time. It was fortress and palace, covering over 2 1/2 acres in a luxurious, sumptuously decorated maze of galleries, chambers, chapels and passages. Most of its original furnishings were lost or burned over centuries, but the rooms are still impressive. Visit the Palace of the Popes, followed by free time for lunch, shopping or further exploration on your own. Drive to the amazing eagle’s nest village of Les Baux de Provence built on a rocky spur in the Alpilles range and offering great views of the countryside and vineyards. In the village of Les Baux, you’ll see a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the 12th century Church of St. Vincent and the 17th century Chapel of the White Penitents. You’ll also have some free time to walk along the narrow and winding streets lined with local artisans who display and sell their works. Note: Tour involves walking for approximately 3 hours on uneven ground and cobblestone, with a few steps in Avignon and about 20 steps in Les Baux. Not recommended for guests who are wheelchair confined. Public restrooms are available at both Avignon and Les Baux. Please dress appropriately. No bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. less

A very fast paced, but rewarding day awaits. This ultimate scenic tour includes the most spectacular sites along the Campanian coast, including Pompeii, possibly the most famous excavation in the world. Start with a fast-boat ride to Marina Grande in Capri, a port lined with colorful old fishermen’s houses. A funicular will take you up to a terrace with a marvelous scenic overlook of the small island, the coast and the sparkling sea. Walk to the piazzetta, the heart of Capri’s shopping and nightlife. You’ll visit Augustus Gardens with your guide, or if you prefer, explore the narrow streets, take in the magnificent views, or relax at an outdoor cafe. You’ll then continue to Sorrento by jet-foil where lunch awaits. After lunch, you’ll have some time to wander the flower-filled streets or admire the high-quality handicrafts for which Sorrento is famous. Head to Pompeii where you’ll enter by the sea gate and visit the city’s baths, villas, theaters and wrestling grounds. Because Pompeii is so well preserved, you can see many fine details that reveal the lifestyles of the residents, such as mosaic floors and colorful frescoes in some of the homes. Time permitting, visit a cameo factory near Pompeii and browse handmade jewelry. Note: Tour is not available for winter sailings. During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and very long lines at the funicular. We recommend that you dress in layers and bring bottled water. Tour may operate in reverse order. less

Your scenic drive will include a stop to enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Tangolunda - the luxury resort area. Pass the Bay of Conejos all the way up to the river estuary before proceeding to La Crucecita (downtown Huatulco), 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. If you like to shop, you’ll find several stores offering 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 are available. To finalize your tour, take in the stunning views of the Bay of Santa Cruz, La Entrega Beach, and your ship. Note: To fully participate, this tour requires leisurely walking over mostly even surfaces. There are a limited number of steps, some cobblestones and uneven surfaces. There will be some standing for extended periods of time. Bottled water is provided on the bus. 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