SHORE EXCURSIONS

See the icons of Monaco and Monte Carlo and then explore further on your own, admiring the majestic architecture and elegance of these two gems on the French Riviera.

After departing from the pier, you will enjoy a leisurely drive along the gorgeous French Riviera to Monaco. During the walking tour that follows, you will see highlights such as the monumental Oceanographic Museum, which rises out of a sheer cliff overlooking the sea. Prince Albert I founded the museum in 1910 and its aquarium is among the best in Europe.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is another icon. Prince Rainer III and Grace Kelly were married here in 1956 and both are buried in the church. The cream-colored facade was constructed with Italian granite starting in 1875 and it took more than 10 years to finish the entire cathedral, which is the largest in Monaco. Interior visits may not be possible if activities are taking place in the cathedral.

After free time to explore a bit further, you will continue on to Monte Carlo, driving along a section of road where the annual Monaco Grand Prix race has been held since 1929. You will notice the road is winding with hairpin turns, a signature of this Formula One race.

You will also see the grand Monte Carlo Casino, which opened in 1863. Designed by Charles Garnier, the architect behind the Paris Opera, the casino is an architectural masterpiece that may well be the most recognized building in Monte Carlo. Free time follows, after which you will rejoin your coach and return to Villefranche.

Gain an overall understanding of Saigon through landmark architecture that reflects the changing face of the metropolis known as Ho Chi Minh City since 1976. In the lively district of Cholon, you will browse the bustling Binh Tay Market and a Buddhist temple dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. For a more contemporary perspective, you will view Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, a modernistic white building that was home to the president of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon presents a glimpse into colonial life, as the French constructed it in the mid-1800s. The ornate Central Post Office is another French-built colonial gem. If not for the large portrait of Ho Chi Minh inside, you might think you were in Paris. Saigon is also known for its artisans, especially those that make lacquerware, a traditional skill that you will observe in a workshop.

After departing from the pier, you will drive inland through the inspiring Croatian countryside to Sibenik, a fortified town founded in the 9th century. Walking through the Old Town, you will see attractions such as the Gothic-style St. Francis Church, lovely Sibenik Theater, and the Duke’s Palace, which has been converted into a museum.

Still, St. Jacob’s Cathedral remains Sibenik’s highlight. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral was built entirely of stone under the direction of three architects. Construction took more than 100 years, and the result is a magnificent blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

Next, you will visit Trogir, the entire city-island being a UNESCO site. Protected by medieval walls, Trogir has retained its original layout from the Hellenistic period and is a remarkable example of urban continuity. You can’t help but be awed by the outstanding examples of Renaissance and Baroque architecture found along the winding stone streets.

Back in Split, you will enjoy a traditional Dalmatian lunch before exploring Old Town and yet another UNESCO gem: the Palace of Diocletian. Built at the turn of the 4th century for Roman emperor Diocletian’s retirement, the palace is a sprawling complex of temples, cathedrals and residences facing the sea and is absolutely spectacular. Following your visit, you will return to the pier.

Ljubljana is the largest and busiest Slovenian city wth a combination of romantic stories, medieval charm and a livley student atmosphere. During your walking tour, your guide will try to capture the transformation from Roman times to the present for you. It bears witness to all five millenniums of its rich history. Apart from the remains of the Roman Emona, it boasts a medieval castle, numerous Baroque buildings, picturesque bridges and the vast Tivoli Park.

You will see all of the main attractions - three bridges created by Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik, Preseren Square named after the poet and the open-air market known for its organic food and culinary highlights. In addition, you'll pass the Town Hall kept as it was in medieval times, Robba's Fountain a Baroque masterpiece and more hidden gems. This walking tour makes for an exciting exploration and has something for every interest.

Join this unforgettable excursion where you’ll travel through small villages and hear their story along the way. Ascend over 900 feet above sea level between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea where you can take some of the most amazing photos on your cruise. Enjoy stunning views and different shades of beautiful BVI blue waters. Listen up as your knowledgeable driver/guide share gems of BVI history and culture. Cross the bridge to Beef Island and swim at the local’s favorite, Long Bay beach. Here you can listen to music, chat with locals, chill at the bars, do light shopping or have a dip in BVI blue waters.

OVERVIEW

Settle in for a panoramic and immensely scenic drive through Istanbul, beginning with a 30-minute journey from the pier to the Old Town via the Galata Bridge. Along the way, you’ll pass by historic landmarks such as the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once a grand arena that hosted chariot races, gladiatorial contests, and public events during the Byzantine era. Though only fragments remain today, the site once held up to 100,000 spectators and played a key role in the city’s civic life. Next, visit the magnificent Blue Mosque—so named for the stunning blue-green Iznik tiles that adorn its interior. With 30 domes and six fluted minarets, this architectural gem continues to impress both inside and out. After your visit, rejoin your coach for a panoramic drive along the shores of the Golden Horn, taking in the scenic beauty of Istanbul’s storied waterways. You’ll then return to the ship, with the remainder of your day at leisure.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a panoramic drive through Istanbul.
• Pass the site of the 3rd-century hippodrome, once an enormous arena for sporting events.
• Behold the Blue Mosque, an early 17th-century architectural treasure that still inspires awe.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Greenock lies on the southern shore of the River Clyde, which has long been the lifeblood of the area, for over 200 years the famous Clyde-built ships began their voyages out to sea. Your excursion will follow the line of the river and then into the center of Glasgow. The skyline is a mixture of architectural gems, encompassing the magnificent 12th century cathedral, the stunning Victorian cityscape and revolutionary Art Nouveau. Upon arrival into the city center, your tour guide will point out the major attractions and principal buildings, including George Square and Cathedral Square, where a stop will be made to admire the cathedral from the outside.

Beyond the cathedral, you’ll see the Necropolis – a unique, graveyard, covered with the elaborate tombs of rich industrialists and merchants. You’ll continue your stroll to see Glasgow’s oldest house dating back to 1471. In contrast, stands the modern St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art - representing the world’s major religious faiths. The coach will stop for you to take photographs of the pinnacled Gothic buildings of the second oldest university in Scotland and then continue to Greenock.

Enjoy a panoramic and wonderfully circuitous drive around Miyakojima Island and two neighboring islands, taking in a remarkable diversity of sights. Before crossing the Irabu Ohashi Bridge, you will pause to admire the unusually curved, double-hump concrete span. Continuing on across Irabu and Shimojijima islands will bring you to twin Toriike ponds, a gorgeous natural attraction known for its mermaid legend. Another stop at inspiring, white-sand Maehama Beach will present an excellent view of low-lying Kurima Island, much of which is agricultural. You can’t help but notice the clarity of the surrounding waters, which are teeming with brightly colored marine life. The best perspective to observe the creatures underwater is through the dozens of windows below the surface in the Miyakojima Marine Park, which was constructed on the ocean floor. You will also discover how mineral-rich salt is removed from the seawater at Yuki Shio, an innovative saltworks factory.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Admire the natural beauty of Miyakojima and other islands from the best vantage points.
• Cross Irabu Ohashi, a bridge with double dips that is the longest toll-free bridge in Japan.
• Admire the gorgeous Toriike Ponds, whose water frequently changes colors.
• Observe unusual sea creatures through the viewing windows at Miyakojima Marine Park.
• See how salt is extracted from the sea and gaze out of the ocean at lovely Maehama Beach.

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Monaco and Eze, many of them iconic attractions that define the cities. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie tutor will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Monaco and Eze, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include:
• A backdrop view of the Monte Carlo Casino
• Oceanographic Museum
• Monaco Cathedral
• Prince’s Palace
• Fragonard perfumery

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Monaco and Eze.
• Follow tips from your selfie tutor to ensure the very best pictures.
• Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings.
• Pose at architectural gems such as the Monte Carlo Casino and the Prince’s Palace.
• Spend free time in Monte Carlo and enjoy a guided walk through Eze.
• Browse the factory in Eze where Fragonard produces its extraordinary perfumes.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Be sure your phone or camera is fully charged.

Join your local guide on a walking tour of this fascinating city, inhabited by several cultures since Carthaginian times which have left their mark on its artistic and maritime heritage. Follow your guide to the Panoramic Lift to the Castle of Conception, built over the remains of the Moorish Alcazar. From this vantage point, enjoy superb views of the city and harbor. It was chosen as one of three main naval bases in Spain during the 18th century. The incredible remains of the Roman Theatre were only discovered back in the late 1980’s, it is believed to have accommodated up to 6,000 spectators.

Continue your walking tour in the heart of Cartagena and learn why it was a crossroad of cultures and one of the most important cities in the Mediterranean for nearly 3,000 years. In the old quarter you’ll find several modernist town houses built between the second half of the 19th century and the first decades of the 20th century. The entrance to the city center, dominated by the Town Hall, is a gem of modernist architecture.

Explore Bangkok's exotic sites during this memorable visit to the Grand Palace, and the city's main shopping area.

Depart the pier for the drive to the Grand Palace, which showcases the most beautiful example of an ancient Siamese Court. Different palaces were built and named for different occasions; the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, perhaps the most breathtaking of them all. The Buddha is made of translucent green jasper, and the king changes its vestments three times a year during a solemn ceremony.

After a buffet style lunch, a stop will be made at the Gems Gallery, where you can browse among a range of vibrant Thai silks and souvenirs before being transferred back to the pier.

Discover the beauty of hilltop Saint Paul de Vence, whose medieval walls enclose a village of atmospheric streets, architectural gems and irresistible shops.

After departing from the pier, you will soon drive inland where the landscape becomes wonderfully pastoral. On the approach to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you will see the village atop a spur of land between two deep valleys, where it has perched since medieval times. It is easy to imagine the village during that period, as its 13th-century ramparts are still intact.

You will enter Saint-Paul-de-Vence through the main gate and then commence your guided walking tour through the winding pedestrian-only streets. Because there are no vehicles, it’s a pleasure to get around and you can’t help but delight in the lovely churches, shaded squares and fortified towers.

You may even see the French game of pétanque or lawn bowling being played beneath a plane tree. The setting has long inspired artists, especially in the 1920s when Signac, Modigliani and Bonnard painted here.

Following your guided walking tour of the walled city, you will enjoy time to explore on your own. The Great Fountain Square is an excellent starting point, from which you can easily reach the grand Collegiate Church, whose construction stretched from the 14th to 18th centuries.

You might also browse the galleries, where work from many local artisans is displayed. There are also plenty of other shopping opportunities for merchandise that varies from French fashions to confections. Following your free time, you will travel back to Villefranche.