SHORE EXCURSIONS CREDIT

Enjoy free time in medieval Taormina, and then see the aftermath of Mount Etna’s eruptions by stopping at a hardened lava flow and sampling wines grown in volcanic soil.

After departing from the pier, you will drive through the center of Messina, which will offer a brief but enlightening introduction to this historical city on the northernmost point of Sicily’s Ionian coast. To the south lies the medieval village of Taormina, where you will enjoy free time to explore its narrow, cobblestone streets.

History buffs might visit the Arabian-influenced Palazzo Corvaja or the ruins of the 2nd-century Greek theater. It sits on a seaside hilltop with a view of Mount Etna that is so inspiring that it can detract from the entertainers that still perform there. Or you may prefer to shop for designer fashions and exquisite jewelry along boutique-lined Corso Umberto.

Rejoining your coach, you’ll travel into the countryside and before long, come upon a hardened wall of lava, the result of Mount Etna’s violent eruption in 1992. The lava came dangerously close to several villages, as you will see when pausing for photos.

While lava can be devastating, on the positive side, it contains nutrients that enrich the soil and lend a distinct flavor to the grapes grown in it, as you will discover at an estate wine tasting. You will sample several Etna-certified Sicilian wines that may include a classic red made from local nerello mascalese grapes. Then after browsing the gift shop, you will return to the pier.

Ride a double-decker bus around Funchal and into the villages on the outskirts, hopping on and off at places that interest you most. With a detailed map in hand that describes the more than 20 destinations where the buses stop, you will find all sorts of attractions to your liking. For the ultimate sweeping view, head out Pico dos Barcelo’s, the highest point in Funchal, where amazing views are waiting for you. If you’re interested in shopping, be sure to hop off the bus at Funchal’s vibrant Farmer’s Market and at Bordal, an extraordinary embroidery factory. The serene Municipal Gardens is a must-see for nature lovers, just as Old Town attracts history buffs and those who appreciate architecture. Funchal Cathedral is yet another glorious venue well worth a visit. An interesting highlight of our tour is the connection with Camara de Lobos, a beautiful villa near Funchal with views of the Atlantic Ocean and small colorful boats moored in the bay. Included in your tour is a wine sample tasting at Blandy's Wine Lodge, a place with more than 200 years of experience in Funchal's wine history, just show your Hop On Hop Off ticket!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride a double-decker bus around Funchal, taking in the sights along the way.
• Hop off the bus at attractions that you find most intriguing and stay as long as you like.
• Hop on another bus whenever you wish and ride it to the next interesting attraction.
• Hear commentary that describes each attraction, so you can easily pick your favorites.

OVERVIEW

See a remarkable array of attractions in downtown Kobe and come away with an excellent overview of its charms. The Buddhist temple Nofukuji is noteworthy for its Great Buddha, a towering statue erected in 1991 to replace the original, which was melted down for scrap to support Japan’s need for metal during World War II. Sorakuen Garden is an equally serene setting that surrounds a central pond. The camphor trees were supposedly planted nearly 500 years ago to ward off calamity. Architecture will take center stage in Kitano Ijinkan Gai, a historical neighborhood with Western-style residences that British architects designed in the late 19th century for foreign merchants and diplomats. They are handsomely furnished with period pieces. Kobe is also well-known for its sake. While browsing a brewery, you will see how it makes rice wine with high-mineral-content local water and a specific rice variety that imparts a rich flavor.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold the Great Buddha statue outside Nofukuji temple.
• Stroll the winding paths of Kobe’s only traditional urban garden.
• Walk through a neighborhood of unexpected Western-style architecture.
• See how Kobe’s uniquely flavored sake is brewed using traditional techniques.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Spend an enlightening day at a farm in Tuscany that produces a multitude of organic foods, many of which will be used as ingredients in your lunch. As an introduction to the artisanal practices at the Diacceroni farm, you will see how honey is produced and sample several varieties of the natural sweetener, which may include an amber chestnut honey and a floral-flavored acacia honey. Similarly, you will discover how the farmers use traditional methods to grow and harvest the crops. In preparation for the afternoon cooking class, you will gather a selection of fresh vegetables and herbs from the farm’s fields and gardens. You will then use those ingredients to concoct your delicious four-course lunch under the chef’s watchful eye. The dishes will be thoughtfully paired with organic wines. Afterwards, you’ll spend some time with a wine expert and agronomist who will talk with you about environmental ethics and biodiversity

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain insight into the organic methods used at a traditional Tuscan farm.
• See how organic honey, vegetables and wine are produced.
• Join a hands-on cooking class and prepare your four-course lunch.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

View Oporto’s most captivating attractions and stay as long as you wish by hopping on and off double-decker buses as they make continuous loops around the city. Two separate routes with dozens of stops are offered, one with a more historical focus, the other along a road that follows the Douro River and up the coast. Together, they present a complete picture of Oporto’s charms. You might stop at the Casa da Música concert hall, the Sé Cathedral. Oporto lies in an area that has been occupied since the 8th century BC, so there are plenty of historical sites, including the Ribiera district. It’s the oldest section of town and so culturally and architecturally important that UNESCO deemed it a World Heritage site. As a bonus, a tasting of port wine is included if you stop at Quinta Boeira.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Ride a bus around Oporto, stopping at the attractions that you find most appealing.
• Stay as long as you like in each attraction to enhance your understanding of it.
• Hop on another bus whenever you please and ride it to another intriguing destination.
• Use the provided route maps and headphones to easily plan your exploration.

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

Travel through the Dutch side of beautiful St. Maarten during this unforgettable day of fun and sun, and relaxation. En route, an experienced guide will provide an interesting narrative including a brief history of the island, and will also give information regarding the day, the location, the facilities, time for lunch and returning times etc. This guide will remain with you for the duration of the tour to answer questions and be of any assistance necessary to ensure your day is enjoyable and trouble-free.

Upon arrival, a welcome rum or fruit cocktail is served, and you are escorted to your complimentary lounge chair, which has been reserved in an area just for you. Umbrellas are available for a nominal fee and large enough to cover 2 persons.

A delicious lunch, with a choice of three entrees and a refreshing beverage (beer, wine, soda or mixed drink), is served at shaded tables on the beach. After lunch you will still have more than enough time to relax on the beach.

On the return journey there will a photo opportunity at a view point and you will also be given the option to be dropped off in town for shopping (guests then make their own way back to the ship).

OVERVIEW

Some beach days are ordinary, this is not one of them. The VIP Pass at KUZÁ Beach & Adventure Park offers exclusive access to a reserved stretch of Cozumel’s most breathtaking shoreline, curated for comfort, calm, and connection in the island’s largest and most spectacular themed attraction. Start with a warm welcome: two cocktails, a fresh facial towel, and bottled water. Ease into a shaded lounger and let dedicated servers bring you handcrafted cocktails, free-flow Prosecco all through your stay and snacks from a select menu. When the mood strikes, explore a chef-curated beachfront buffet that blends bold Mexican flavors with international favorites, complemented by unlimited cocktails, beer, and wine from the open bar. Feeling adventurous? Paddle, kayak, snorkel, or bike along the turquoise coastline with complimentary non-motorized gear. Or simply stroll the shoreline and let the rhythm of the island reset your pace. Beyond the VIP shoreline, enjoy full access to KUZÁ’s vibrant entertainment—cultural performances, live music, and beach games that bring the spirit of Cozumel to life. KUZÁ is the island’s only destination where you can explore three distinct ecosystems, complemented by a towering waterpark (add-on experience), an exhilarating zipline (add-on experience), and some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches. Space is limited, and escapes this perfect never last long. KUZÁ. The best way to truly experience Cozumel.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Reserved access to the VIP zone of Cozumel’s most breathtaking and exclusive private shoreline, with full access to live entertainment, cultural shows, and beachfront activities throughout the day.
• Relax in a shaded lounger with uninterrupted ocean views.
• Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, free-flowing Prosecco, and snacks served by dedicated beachside staff, along with a bottle of water and a fresh facial towel for each guest.
• Indulge in a chef-curated buffet of bold Mexican flavors and international favorites.
• Paddle, kayak, snorkel, or bike with complimentary non-motorized gear included.
• Access additional add-on adventures like KUZÁ’s towering waterpark, zipline, or culinary workshops for an even more unforgettable day.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and reef-safe sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes. Water shoes are recommended.

Sample a selection of signature products from the Sorrento Peninsula, culminating with a lunch of local specialties. The mode of transportation will be just as unique at times, as you will approach a farmhouse cheese factory by Ape Calessino, an iconic Italian vehicle that resembles a three-wheel golf cart. After seeing how the dairy cows are fed, you will sample several organic cheeses, including a distinctive mozzarella and ricotta. A tour of a nearby citrus farm and a demonstration of Limoncello liqueur-making, will add another dimension to your understanding of Sorrentine gastronomy. Afterwards, you will indulge in a traditional lunch that will likely include bruschetta and cold meats such as those found on a charcuterie board. All the ingredients will be from the surrounding area. Another stop at a canteen on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius will present a sampling of organic wines from grapes that thrive in the volcanic soil. Taralli crackers, salami and cheeses will complement the tasting.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy tastings of organic foods and wines produced on the Sorrento Peninsula.
• See how the products are made using traditional methods that respect the land.
• Settle in for a hearty lunch of traditional dishes and local specialties.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Spend an enlightening day at a farm in Tuscany that produces a multitude of organic foods, many of which will be used as ingredients in your lunch. As an introduction to the artisanal practices at the Diacceroni farm, you will see how honey is produced and sample several varieties of the natural sweetener, which may include an amber chestnut honey and a floral-flavored acacia honey. Similarly, you will discover how the farmers use traditional methods to grow and harvest the crops. In preparation for the afternoon cooking class, you will gather a selection of fresh vegetables and herbs from the farm’s fields and gardens. You will then use those ingredients to concoct your delicious four-course lunch under the chef’s watchful eye. The dishes will be thoughtfully paired with organic wines. Afterwards, you’ll spend some time with a wine expert and agronomist who will talk with you about environmental ethics and biodiversity.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain insight into the organic methods used at a traditional Tuscan farm.
• See how organic honey, vegetables and wine are produced.
• Join a hands-on cooking class and prepare your four-course lunch.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

This isn’t just a beach. It’s a place to reconnect, recharge, and rediscover what a day by the sea can truly be. Step into KUZÁ Beach and Adventure Park, Cozumel’s largest and most breathtaking themed attraction, where turquoise waters meet soft white sands and vibrant Caribbean energy fills the air. With the Day Pass, you’ll enjoy full access to Cozumel’s most expansive private shoreline, where shaded palms, soft white sand, and turquoise waters stretch in every direction. At KUZÁ, the experience is yours to shape. Float in calm seas, relax beneath the palms, join a beachside game, or wander the eco-park’s native trails surrounded by lush tropical greenery. Entertainment and family-friendly activities flow throughout the day, offering music, games, and cultural moments, but participation is entirely up to you. When hunger strikes, explore KUZÁ’s culinary offerings available for purchase throughout the park. Savor bold Mexican flavors and international favorites from vibrant food trucks or relax at a full-service beachfront restaurant with panoramic ocean views. Quench your thirst with tropical cocktails, soft drinks, and cold beer served at our beach bars—all available à la carte. KUZÁ is also the island’s only destination where you can explore three distinct ecosystems, complemented by thrilling optional add-ons like the towering waterpark and exhilarating zipline, surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Whether you come to celebrate, disconnect, or simply breathe deeper, you’ll find the freedom to follow your own rhythm. This is a beach day without a script and one you’ll never forget. KUZÁ. The best way to truly experience Cozumel.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Full access to Cozumel’s most expansive and scenic private shoreline at KUZÁ Beach and Adventure Park.
• Lounge under an umbrella on a beach chair or swim in calm, crystal-clear waters.
• Join optional live music, beach games, and cultural experiences.
• Discover three distinct ecosystems with optional add-on adventures such as the waterpark and zipline.
• À la carte dining featuring bold Mexican and global flavors, along with cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks, is available at beachfront restaurants and bars.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and reef-safe sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes. Waters shoes are recommended.