EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

OVERVIEW

Spend a carefree day enjoying the sun, sand, and lively atmosphere of Virginia Beach’s famous Oceanfront. After a drive from Norfolk, you'll arrive at one of the East Coast’s most popular beach destinations with approximately four hours of free time await. Relax on the wide sandy beach, take a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean, or stroll along the three-mile oceanfront boardwalk lined with shops, cafés, restaurants, and entertainment. Whether you choose to unwind by the water, rent a bicycle to explore the coastline, or browse local boutiques, this flexible beach escape lets you experience Virginia Beach at your own pace before returning to the ship.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend approximately four hours enjoying Virginia Beach’s sandy shoreline.
• Explore the lively oceanfront boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and local attractions.
• Relax, swim, or rent a bicycle to discover more of the scenic coastline.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and bring a beach towel and sunscreen.
• Bring cash or a credit card for optional dining, shopping, or bicycle rentals.
• A hat and sunglasses are recommended for sun protection.

Panoramic views of bustling Hamilton Harbour and the Great Sound provide an inspiring backdrop for the most breathtaking 18 holes on the island. Designed in 2002 by renowned golf course architect Algie M. Pulley Jr. the Belmont Hills Golf Course is a magnificent showcase of Bermuda’s natural beauty. Featuring 6,100 yards of strategically laid out bunkers, multiple water hazards, multi-tiered greens and slender fair-ways, this world-class layout offers a challenging test for players of all handicaps. Green fees and shared cart included, transportation is not.

Step aboard a comfortable and stable catamaran for a trip to the northernmost coral reef in the world. Relax on deck while the crew provides informative commentary on the island and the fascinating undersea ecosystem. After a leisurely cruise, you'll find yourself moored in a magical deep blue oasis, bordered by fringe reef on nearly all sides. Here, you'll be given a mask, snorkel, fins, buoyancy vest and instruction on how you may best enjoy this undersea paradise. Immerse yourself in crystal clear waters under the watchful eye of your instructors and explore the great expanses of pristine reef. After snorkeling, the sails will be hoisted (weather permitting) and you can enjoy a relaxing sail back with a complimentary Rum Swizzle. A cash bar is also available.

Enjoy a delightful walking tour through Norfolk’s waterfront, an area with deep historical ties and maritime traditions, which the landmarks reflect. You will first pass Nauticus, a marine-themed science center and museum. The USS Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships that the U.S. Navy built, is berthed outside. It is an impressive sight, especially knowing its history of serving in World War II, the Korean War and the Persian Gulf War. Nearby stands the Taiwanese Pagoda and Tea House, a two-story pagoda that was manufactured in Taiwan, shipped in pieces to Norfolk and assembled by Taiwanese artisans. Walking farther inland, you will find St. Paul’s Church, the only structure to survive Britain’s destruction of Norfolk in 1776, and the Moses Myers House, one of the first residences built after the Revolutionary War. You will also walk along the cobblestone streets in the Freemason area, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Get an introduction to Bermuda’s marine life by snorkeling. This shoreline cruise takes you to the pristine Sea Gardens, and the shipwreck of the Vixen, a fantastic habitat for a variety of fish and other marine life. This jet-powered, glass bottom boat allows you to view it all, up close, in safe, dry comfort. Departing the reef, you’ll pause at the nearby sea grass beds, where you may spot a few of the many transient turtles.

Then, you’ll head for one of the many shoreline snorkel sites that line the western side of the island, where your boat will set anchor. Here you may take some of the boat's snorkel gear and explore the shoreline or wade ashore and relax in the shallows. Island tunes and a complimentary Rum Swizzle on the return boat cruise complete the perfect family fun day.

Visit Bermuda’s first capital and see what a British colonial outpost looked like in the 1600’s when touring the historic 'Ol Towne of St. George's’.

Included is the admissions to the Fort St. Catherine; meander through the dark passageways and wander through the magazines where swords and pistols are on display, take advantage of the stunning views from high a top this grand fortress. A stop in the heart of the Ol Towne of St. George's allows for a visit to the oldest Anglican Church of the Western Hemisphere, St. Peter’s Church.

On adjacent St. David’s Island, once known as the US Air Force Base lands, you’ll discover the charm of this unique and enchanting community as you enjoy the imposing views of the Atlantic Ocean from St. David's Lighthouse.

There will be several photo stops on this tour, so don’t forget your camera!

OVERVIEW

Hear enlightening commentary about the British overseas territory of Bermuda on a scenic drive to a resort in Somerset Village, where you will indulge in a traditional English tea. The British influence will be apparent most everywhere you go, beginning with the Royal Naval Dockyard. It was established as a British base of operations between Nova Scotia and the West Indies after the English were defeated in the American Revolution, and it was used militarily until abandoned in the 1980s. Bermuda’s first settlers were British – although they arrived inadvertently after being shipwrecked in 1609 – and the self-governing archipelago still follows a parliamentary system based on the United Kingdom’s. Heydon Chapel is perhaps the earliest reminder of England’s presence as it was built in 1620. You might contemplate all that you have seen and heard about Britain over a spot of tea, scones and cakes at the waterfront Willowbank resort.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle in for a wonderfully scenic drive and hear commentary that highlights the attractions.
• Recognize Britain’s deep influence in Bermuda, which is still a British overseas territory.
• Enjoy the quintessential English experience – a traditional tea with cakes and scones.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Stroll the streets of colonial Williamsburg with a guide that will elaborate on events that occurred there that shaped America’s history. Begin your visit with a brief introduction where the guide will point out all the historical buildings that you will see during your visit of Colonial Williamsburg. During this in-depth walking tour of the historic district, you will see blocks of original 18th-century buildings while learning about the early government in Williamsburg, the colonial way of life and key figures that led the American Revolution. Of Williamsburg’s more than 500 period buildings, the stately Governor’s Palace may be the most important architecturally. It was built in 1722 to house Virginia’s royal governor and instill respect for executive power among the colonists. Another gem is the Capitol building, a replica of the original that burned in a fire. During free time, you might explore other areas more deeply, especially the exhibition buildings. The tradesmen and shopkeepers will be in costumes, which will lend the experience greater authenticity. For the best shopping and dining opportunities, drop by Merchant’s Square.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Tour colonial Williamsburg, home to more than 500 period buildings.
• Hear fascinating facts about the colonial way of life under British rule.
• Enjoy free time for dining and shopping in Merchant’s Square.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Explore a historical New York icon and experience the thrill of gazing out over the city from the tallest commercial skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan. The views from the soaring observation platform of Summit One Vanderbilt will be breathtaking in every direction, including straight down through the glass floor. You will see all five boroughs of New York and a sky-high perspective of landmarks such as the Chrysler Building and Central Park. Following this jaw-dropping experience, you will take a short walk to Grand Central Terminal, the famed train station that opened in 1913. As an introduction, the guide will describe the evolution of this national historic landmark that features a Beaux-Arts style. You will also enjoy free time to browse and shop before continuing to the airport.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy jaw-dropping views of New York from atop the Summit One Vanderbilt skyscraper.
• Look 1,100 feet down through the glass 'levitation' ledge floor.
• Follow a guide through Grand Central Terminal, a Midtown landmark since 1913.
• Learn fascinating facts about the terminal’s history and spend free time exploring further.
• Head to either JFK or LaGuardia airport in plenty of time for your flight.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Embark on a dynamic tour of Kings Wharf and surrounding area on a two-wheeled Segway vehicle. Roll past the Royal Naval Dockyard’s historic sites and explore Bermuda’s maritime history as the Clocktower Mall, Casemates Prison and the National Museum are pointed out. The tour leaves Dockyard and takes you to stops along the coastline and beaches. This is the perfect time for photos. You will learn how to use and navigate your self-balancing personal electric vehicle before setting out on the tour. This tour is a unique way to see and experience Bermuda and provides ample opportunity for photos.

Your driver will pick-up shipside and shortly after exiting the Royal Naval Dockyard complex your drive takes you through quaint Somerset Village and over Somerset Bridge, the smallest drawbridge in the world. Admire Bermuda’s stunning natural beauty along the way, as you carry-on along breathtaking South Shore Road. Tour bus will pull-over at laybys dotted along this drive for photo opportunities and views of famous Horseshoe Bay and other pink sand beaches. Your tour then navigates the winding uphill drive to the base of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, towering 120 feet above sea level, a great opportunity to photograph the 360 degree views of Bermuda. You will stop to take in the sweeping view of John Smith’s Beach, one of Bermuda’s legendary pink hued beaches.

Pass by the Botanical Gardens and drive to St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have 30 minutes to explore or shop in this unique old town. The town center provides a favorite photograph opportunity in the Stocks, aside the Ducking Stool and at the steps of St. Peter's Church, the oldest Anglican church of the Western Hemisphere. Re-joining your buses the route takes a coastline drive along the North Shore to soon arrive at famed Front Street, the busiest place on the island and life and soul of the lively capitol, City of Hamilton. Time allows for shopping and browsing in the boutique style shops and souvenir store-fronts lining Hamilton Harborfront.

After a short shuttle to the beach site and after receiving some safety instructions, you’ll board your stable sit-on-top double kayaks for a fully-guided and narrated shoreline tour. Your guide will pick the best location and tour route where you’ll enjoy views of rocky coastlines, uninhabited islands and beaches. Along the way your guide will point out coastline creatures such as Bermuda long tails, egrets, herons, and various crustaceans. Following your kayak tour you’ll have the opportunity to swim and relax at the beach before your return transportation.