SHORE EXCURSIONS

Cruise the winding Monkey River, looking for wildlife in the surrounding rainforest, and then enjoy a hike with a naturalist that will explain the plants' medicinal uses.

After departing from the pier, you will soon arrive at a small village near the mouth of the Monkey River, where you will begin a leisurely cruise upstream. Along the way, the guide will provide enlightening commentary about the region's history, including how the economy boomed in the late 19th century when large volumes of bananas were exported.

Little evidence of that thriving time period remains, as the meandering Monkey River is bordered by undeveloped rainforest. Natural beauty and remarkably diverse flora and fauna are now the main attractions.

You can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles sunning on the riverbanks, turtles popping their heads above the water's surface, and iguanas perched in the tree limbs. You might even spot a troop of black howler monkeys screeching in the forest.

Tropical birds are just as abundant along the river, especially wading birds such as herons, brightly colored tanagers and keel-billed toucans, the national bird of Belize. Toucans are easy to spot because of their large, colorful bills and how they croak like frogs.

Once you disembark, you will hike through the surrounding forest while the naturalist guide points out plants with medicinal qualities. For instance, leaves of the soursop are often brewed into a tea that reduces fever, and the wild yam has anti-inflammatory properties.

Explore the geological wonders and eerie formations in Crystal Caves and then spend hours relaxing at a series of beaches linked by footpaths and surrounded by a nature reserve.

After departing from the pier, you will enjoy a leisurely tender ride to St. George’s Island, the northernmost point of hook-shaped Bermuda. A short scenic drive will bring you to Crystal Caves, which were discovered in 1907 when a teenager tried to retrieve his cricket ball from a hole and found it led to a huge series of caverns.

You will have the opportunity to explore the wonders underground, which include a crystal-clear lake and a profusion of white stalactites eerily illuminated for added drama. Parts of the caves are accessed along a pontoon boardwalk that floats atop the lake, allowing a closer look at the geological formations underwater. As an alternative, you may remain above ground and meander the gardens and browse the gift shop.

. Continuing, you will soon arrive at the Clearwater Beach & Cooper’s Island Reserve, a secluded wedge of undeveloped land on Bermuda’s eastern end. The area contains six interconnected beaches, an idyllic setting to enjoy hours relaxing in the sun, doing whatever you please.

You may take a refreshing swim in the shallow waters, observe the marine life while snorkeling or simply lie back in a lounge chair and enjoy the serenity.

Experience a unique, exciting underwater adventure aboard a real submarine. Seated in spacious, air-conditioned comfort you'll see beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life, including coral formations, sponge, and colorful fish through large view-ports to depths of 130 feet.

OVERVIEW

Take an orientation spin through Adelaide, gaze in awe at the views from Mount Lofty, and share some up-close time with Australia’s most iconic fauna. The lush, leafy Adelaide Hills spread into wine country to the east of metropolitan Adelaide – and the narrated coach drive across the city and through natural bushland to get there is quite a scenic treat. But then, the real showstoppers on this excursion have fur, paws and pouches and hang out at Cleland Wildlife Park on the slopes of Mount Lofty. With two of hours to free-range around the venue’s natural environment, where the marsupials free-range around right with you, you’ll become personally acquainted with classic Aussie beasts like kangaroos, wallabies, potoroos – maybe even an emu or two. Less obviously cuddly but no less fascinating are the wombats, dingoes, and Tasmanian devils that live here too. Kudos to this sizable, sustainable place for bringing people and critters together for mutual observation since 1967. On the way back from the Park, you’ll drive to the lookout terrace on Mt Lofty’s summit. The panoramic views across the city skyline and to the coast from here are especially breathtaking on a clear day.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take in notable sights of central Adelaide on a narrated drive out of the city toward leafy Mount Lofty.
• Spend a couple delightful hours wandering among wallabies and ‘roos in a cage-free natural environment at Cleland Wildlife Park.
• Feed them, have close-up encounters, and capture unforgettable photos of these Australian icons.
• Interact with less fuzzy creatures, too, like wombats and dingoes – even a Tasmanian devil.
• Weather permitting, experience jaw-dropping views over the city from the summit lookout atop Mt Lofty.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Enjoy hours of free time at the exceptionally photogenic, boulder-strewn beach in The Baths National Park on nearby Virgin Gorda. Take an approximately 45 minute cruise along the Sir Francis Drake Channel to Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda. Even the ride there will be exhilarating, as you will travel to the island via ferryboat following a picturesque sea route through Sir Francis Drake Channel. On arrival, open safari buses take you on an approximately 15 minute drive through Spanish Town to The Baths for a self-guided tour. Then, it’s on to the naturally beautiful beach, which is littered with a jumble of massive granite boulders that form grottoes and dramatically illuminated tidal pools beneath the stacks of massive boulders. These unique rock formations reveal the volcanic origins of Virgin Gorda, which means Fat Virgin. Christopher Columbus supposedly named the island for its profile, which resembles a rotund woman lying on her side. Travel along the trails and boulders to discover hidden caves and sea pools.

Discover Moorea's visual splendor, art and local Polynesian lifestyle during this scenic orientation drive around the island.

Enjoy a scenic and relaxing drive around Moorea. The distance around this idyllic island is approximately 38 miles and offers many spectacular sites and photo opportunities. Pass the sacred temples (Marae) and get an insight on Polynesian culture.

Down the East Coast reach Ia ora View Point for a unique view on the island of Tahiti only located about 10 nautical miles from Moorea, from there the view on the clear blue lagoon of Temae Beach is breathtaking. Driving down to the West Coast you’ll reach the Tiki Village for a short walk through the property, and free time. During your free time, you might browse the small boutique or discover the island's artistic beauty at an art gallery. Here, you will have an opportunity to see a replica of Gauguin's Maison du Jouir and view a large selection of the most beautiful reproductions of his artwork. You could also visit a black-and-white picture gallery showcasing the works of famous photographer A. Sylvain. Located by the ocean, the village is home to a lovely white-sand beach that offers wonderful photo opportunities.

OVERVIEW

Watch humpback whales and other marine creatures cavorting in the nutrient-rich waters at Point Adolphus, one of Alaska’s premier observation points. During the cruise, a naturalist will describe the diversity of animals that converge here each summer. They come primarily to feed in the waters that are extraordinarily rich in halibut, salmon and plankton. Point Adolphus is noted for having the highest concentration of humpback whales in the Alaskan panhandle, so be on the lookout for these majestic and intelligent creatures. You can expect them to be breaching the water’s surface, waving their flukes up and down as they dive, and feeding voraciously to fatten up for their winter migration south. You might also observe frolicking Dall’s porpoises, Stellar sea lions, curious harbor seals and Orca whales. You may also see graceful bald eagles swooping down to grab fish in their talons, and perhaps even bears and deer in the surrounding wooded landscape.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch for humpback whales breaching the water’s surface as they feed.
• Gain a deeper understanding of whales and other marine creatures from the naturalist.
• Look for playful porpoises, sea lions and harbor seals.
• Scan the sky for majestic bald eagles.
• Scour the shoreline for mammals such as bears and deer.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear warm layered clothing and flat comfortable shoes with non-slip soles.
• Bring waterproof outerwear if you expect to sit on the open-air observation deck.
• Don’t forget binoculars and a camera.

Depart the Port of Miami by air-conditioned coach with a knowledgeable guide and drive for approximately one hour towards Everglades National Park. This world renowned eco-system covers about 5,000 square miles and is home to most of Florida's alligators, snakes, black bear, wild pigs, over two hundred species of birds including herons, egrets, white ibis, anhingas, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, ospreys, hawks, vultures, eagles and more, plus the endangered and nocturnal Florida Panther - less than 100 remaining in the wild. Board your airboat for a thirty-minute exhilarating ride over this “River of Grass” and hopefully come face to face with a number of these different creatures. Afterwards enjoy the various crocodilian exhibits, visit the souvenir shop or perhaps try out the alligator nuggets in the snack bar. On the drive to the airport learn about the Miccosukee and the extremely wealthy Seminoles, the two Florida tribes of Native American Indians.

OVERVIEW

Travel to a rural wildlife sanctuary for up-close looks at Tasmanian devils, kangaroos and some of Tasmania’s remarkable native wildlife. Have a leisurely drive inland through the rolling countryside of northern Tasmania, where quiet villages, farmland and native bushland create a scenic introduction to the region. At Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, set within natural bushland at Mole Creek, you will have the opportunity to discover some of Tasmania’s most unique native wildlife. The sanctuary is known for its important conservation, breeding and rehabilitation work, particularly with Tasmanian devils, and is home to a range of native species including wombats, quolls, kangaroos, wallabies, birds and reptiles. During your visit, enjoy time to explore the sanctuary and learn more about the behaviours, habitats and conservation challenges of these remarkable animals. Back in Burnie, you’ll enjoy a downtown drive before returning to the pier. Founded in 1827 around an excellent natural harbor on Emu Bay and surrounded by vast eucalyptus forests, the timber industry dominated the town for the next 100 years. Today, the creative arts and culinary endeavors are what Burnie is most known for.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel by coach to Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, recognized for its conservation work and long-standing commitment to the care, rehabilitation and protection of Tasmania’s unique species.
• Spend about two hours meandering the sanctuary’s paths and encountering its residents.
• See Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, bettongs, quolls, potoroos and others in this curiosity-shop of indigenous fauna.
• Settle in for a scenic return drive across an unspoiled landscape, followed by an informative orientation spin around Burnie itself.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended; no heels.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed

Get ready for the most popular and unforgettable experience in St. Thomas. Step aboard, meet the Captain & crew of our 54’Catamaran spacious, stable, comfortable catamaran and sail to the stunning Turtle Cove at Little Buck Island — a guest favorite for its crystal clear waters and incredible marine life. We are family friendly and Kid friendly. Your crew will gear you up and guide you through a relaxed, easy snorkel where you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and the famous GREEN SEA TURTLES that glide gracefully through their natural habitat stopping frequently to feed on the grasses below. Many guests call this the highlight of their entire cruise. Not a snorkeler? No problem. Stretch out on the wide deck, soak up the sun, and enjoy the views. Then, on the return sail, the energy kicks up — music playing, breezes blowing, and complimentary beverages flowing as you cruise back in true island style. This is the kind of excursion people talk about long after they’re home. BTW, don’t forget your camera as SELFIE opportunities abound.

Meet your guide for the day and board your comfortable air-conditioned bus and prepare yourself to experience Aruba at its finest. Enjoy your narrated tour while driving through charming Oranjestad with its Dutch Colonial architecture. Your first stop will be the Aloe Factory for a brief overview of the Aloe plantation and a tour of the Aloe Museum.

Then drive through the countryside and discover Aruba’s flora and fauna in route to the Casibari Rock formation – huge diorite boulders found in the center of the island. Board your bus and continue on to the mysterious California Lighthouse for a short stop to enjoy a breathtaking view of the island. A quick stop at the beach for a dip in the spectacular turquoise ocean concludes your tour, before returning to the cruise terminal.

OVERVIEW

Discover the wonders of Mendenhall Glacier at its visitor center and cruise a purpose-built vessel through waters where humpback whales and other marine creatures are commonly spotted. The glacier is the only one in Southeast Alaska accessible by road, just one of the facts you will learn while browsing the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The glacier is 13 miles long and is part of the massive Juneau Icefield, a remnant of the last ice age. Time permitting, you can stroll the glacier-view path at the center or watch salmon in a nearby stream before driving on to Auke Bay. Here, you will you will embark a catamaran specially designed for wildlife viewing. Humpback whales are the star attractions in these waters, but you may also spot orcas, sea lions and bald eagles. Throughout the cruise, your onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of the humpback whale.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See Mendenhall Glacier from its enlightening visitor center.
• Cruise a catamaran through waters where humpback whales are commonly seen.
• Watch for other marine animals and bald eagles.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, gloves and a hat.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes. Bring a rainproof jacket.