Transatlantic Cruises: Excursions

This classic city tour takes in all the highlights of Reykjavik with one stop at the Pearl Vantage Point. You'll leave the harbor towards the Laugardalur or 'warm water valley', passing the city’s main sports and recreation area with its outdoor geothermal swimming pool. From here, you'll head inland and arrive at the City’s municipal conservation area of Heidmork. Reykjavik has easy access to a plentiful, clean and uncontaminated water supply from the cold spring area Gvendarbrunnar. The surrounding lava fields, craters and imposing mountain ranges bear witness to the country’s fiery origins and succeed in providing visitors with a taste of the great outdoors. You'll return to the hustle and bustle of the inner city, driving past the open-air museum at Arbaer where selected old houses are shown and cross the Ellidaar, (Ellida River) one of the world's cleanest Salmon rivers known to flow through a capital city. You'll then make a stop at The Pearl (or Perlan), which, is built on the hot water reservoir tanks that provide Reykjavik with water for the taps and radiators. Here, the panoramic view at the platform is so splendidly clear, it is the perfect photo opportunity. You'll continue past the Hallgrims church, and head for the charming old quarter of Reykjavik with its colorful wooden houses and narrow streets before passing the city lake, Tjornin, with its rich birdlife. Your next stop will be at the harbor area for a photo stop. On the way back, you'll follow the coastline, pass the famous Hofdi house where the summit meeting between President Ronald Reagan and Secretary General Mikhail Gorbachev was held in 1986. Note: Most of the sites on this tour can be seen from the coach. Order of sites may vary. less

Costa Maya is home to the 2nd largest coral reef system in the world and offers much to explore beneath the surface of the sea. A short transfer from the pier you’ll find the colorful Mayan fishing village of Mahahual and a beautiful beach where you will begin your adventure. Board your glass-bottom boat and head out over the iridescent waters of the Caribbean. Take in the panoramic view of colorful coral reef formations and tropical fish as you travel over a beautiful reef area. Once you admire the reef from above, jump in and follow your certified guide past colorful fish and coral formations on an inspiring snorkel tour. The small group size ensures personal attention so you can relax and discover the wonders of the underwater world with your helpful guides nearby. Afterwards you may either return directly to the ship with your tour or choose stay in downtown for shopping and return on your own at a later time on your own expense. less

If you would like to get the best view of all Mazatlan, you’ll find it at this magnificent lighthouse, 515-feet (157 m) above sea level. This is the highest natural working lighthouse in the world and at night, light can be seen more than 30 miles out at sea. Your invigorating day starts when you board your transport for a five-minute ride to the foot of El Creston hill, where the lighthouse is located. Soon after, your challenging hike will take you up the winding path to the world’s highest natural lighthouse. If you are a nature’s lover, don’t miss this opportunity to see iguanas, tropical birds, butterflies and some exotic varieties of cactus and flowers along the way. Arriving at the top, your reward is the stunning view, which includes the Pacific Ocean, your ship by the harbor below and miles of Mexican coastline to the south and north. You’ll have 25 minutes to relax, have a drink and take photos. Pass by the Historical Center before on the way back to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Hike is on uneven terrain for approximately 1-1/2 miles, approximately one hour in duration. less

Upon arrival in Scalloway, the former Shetland capital, you’ll visit the castle, built in 1600 by the tyrant Earl Patrick Stewart using forced labor. It is four stories high and now roofless. Your next visit will be the nearby Scalloway Museum which houses a special "Shetland Bus" exhibition depicting the village's unique role in WWII operations. You’ll continue through the Tingwall Valley with its Norse heritage and arrive for a visit to the Gott Ponies. These were owned and bred by David Roberson, a Shetland pony enthusiast, breeding very good quality ponies. David or a member of his staff will be delighted to share their knowledge with you. Afterward, you’ll head northward through peat and heather covered landscapes. On the return journey to Lerwick, you may wish to take the opportunity to photograph one of the spectacular views of many of the islands that make up the Shetland’s archipelago. less