KEF10 – HORSES, HOT SPRINGS & COUNTRY CULTURE
Duration: approx. 4 hours
After boarding a coach at the pier and leaving the port of Reykjavik, a scenic 45-minute drive will first take you over imposing lava fields dotted with steaming hot springs to reach the Eldhestar – “Volcano Horses” – Farm and Riding Centre, after which an informative horse show will introduce you to the history and characteristics of these unique, hardy Icelandic horses. You will then have time to enjoy some light refreshment at the farm, including a taste of the local “hot-spring bread” – a traditional delicacy that is baked underground using heat from the nearby thermal springs. Next you will travel to Hveragerði, a town known for its pronounced geothermal activity and variety of bubbling hot springs. The village is also famous for its earthquakes, the most recent of which occurred in 2008 and is still firmly imprinted in the minds of the locals. You will visit the tourist information centre to see an exhibition portraying how this “moving experience” affected the local residents, the town’s buildings and its natural environment. A visit will also be paid to the village’s art gallery before you begin your return journey over the mountain pass and through the centre of Reykjavik.
Please note : limited number of guides in languages other than English. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in English only.
KEF11 – LUNAR LANDSCAPES: CRATERS & HOT SPRINGS
Duration: approx. 5 hours
Prepare to explore and be amazed by Iceland’s untamed volcanic landscape on this tour of hot springs, fumaroles and craters, which begins with a scenic drive from the capital to the Reykjanes Peninsula, an area of extreme geothermal activity. The powerful forces of nature are much in evidence on the peninsula, be it in the sheer rugged beauty of the North Atlantic coastline, the savage bleakness of the seemingly endless lunar-like landscape or in the hardiness of the region’s flora and fauna. The tour also includes a visit to the bird cliffs near the Reykjanes lighthouse, after which you will continue on to an impressive row of volcanic craters, complete with hissing thermal springs that give off a pungent “eggy” odour. Finally, you will move on to the nearby high-temperature thermal field to round off the volcanic leg of the tour. After returning to the port, a stop will be made at one of the city’s most famous landmarks, the remarkable “Perlan” building (The Pearl). Built in 1988, the building features a shiny cupola that sits atop a number of huge tanks containing natural hot water to heat Icelandic homes. The building also contains a man-made “geyser” that spouts a column of water through the inside of the building at regular intervals. As a final treat on the tour, you can enjoy wonderful views of the city’s colourful rooftops from the 1st-floor viewing platform of the Perlan building. A scenic return drive to the port and your ship brings this tour of volcanic Iceland to an end.
Please note : limited number of guides in languages other than English. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in English only.
SALERNO (Italy)
Salerno is a small city located in southwest Italy situated in the region of Campania, which includes the famously picturesque Amalfi Coast. The old part of Salerno, the Centro Storico, is home to many lovely medieval churches and is a vibrant and bustling part of the city. History fans can use Salerno as a base to reach the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Paestum, whilst budding photographers should head to Amalfi, and its picture-postcard scenery.
SLN01- POMPEII
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Leave the porto for a 40-minute coach drive towards Pompeii, a once thriving town that was completely buried by lava, rubble and ash during the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in A.D. 79. It then lay hidden and perfectly preserved under tonnes of volcanic ash for almost 1,700 years before being accidentally rediscovered in the mid-18th century and then subsequently being excavated. The many artefacts that were found, especially items of daily life such as bread and honey, give the visitor a glimpse of the lives these ancient Romans lived. A fascinating guided walking tour will provide insight into the history of this amazing and very large archaeological site.
Please note: this excursion includes long walking on uneven ground; there are big slabs of stone in the streets of Pompeii so this tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.
SLN02 - AMALFI COAST
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Upon leaving the port of Salerno, you will be taken on a scenic sightseeing tour along the world-famous Amalfi Coast, which is renowned for its beauty and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a cultural landscape. The picturesque towns along this stretch of coastline in southern Italy are inextricably linked to the sea, both for tourism and trade, and their seaside settings have helped them to prosper. A stop will be made in the charming resort of Amalfi to visit the impressive Cathedral, which dominates the main square and combines Romanesque, Byzantine, Gothic and Baroque architectural elements, as well as the adjacent 13th-century Cloister of Paradise, home to old mosaics, paintings and 120 columns. Time permitting, you will have some leisure time to amble through the narrow streets on your own before heading back to the port and your ship.
Please note: depending on the traffic laws in force along the Amalfi Coast on the days of call, the tour will run either by coach or by boat.
SLN07 - SALERNO CITY TOUR
Approx. 4.5 hours
Nestled in the Gulf of Salerno, the city of the same name marks the gateway to two globally renowned and highly charming stretches of shoreline: the Amalfi Coast and Cilento Coast. A coach will take you to Arechi castle, which dates back to the 8th century and the reign of Arechi II, Duke (and later Prince) of Benevento. Built 300m above the sea on Mount Bonadies, it offers a spectacular view of Salerno and its surroundings. Shoot some photos during a brief stop at the first viewpoint before driving back to Salerno’s historic centre, the vibrant heart of the city and home to several exquisite medieval churches. Take a guided walking tour along its narrow streets to the Salerno Cathedral (or “Duomo”). Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, the apostle St. Matthew (one of the Four Evangelists of the New Testament), the Duomo was built starting in 1076 by Robert Guiscard and consecrated by Pope Gregory VII in 1085. You will then walk up to the edge of the historical district and the Gardens of Minerva, Europe’s first botanical garden to cultivate plants for medical use. Soak in the variety of flora and enjoy the beautiful view of the sea before returning to the port.
Please note: this excursion involves walking uphill, on stairs and on uneven ground, and is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE (Canary Islands, Spain)
Located just off the west coast of Africa, Tenerife is the largest Island in the Canary archipelago. The island’s name literally means white (Ife) mountain (Tene), and refers to the eternal snows on top of the El Teide volcano. From its warm weather and white beaches to vibrant art galleries and museums, Tenerife has a wide variety of attractions that showcase the Spanish culture that has been prevalent here since the late 1400s.
TEN01 – LAS CAÑADAS DEL TEIDE
Duration: full day, lunch included
A scenic drive in a comfortable modern coach first takes you from the port and inland through the lushly forested area known as La Esperanza to reach El Portillo, the natural gateway to the circular Las Cañadas mountain range. This is also where the volcanic Mount Teide is located, whose summit reaches a dizzying height of 3,718 metres above sea level. Your tour then continues on to the rock of Mirador, known also as el Dedo de Dios, which translates as “The Finger of God”. A brief photo stop will be made at this incredible geological formation. To ensure your full enjoyment, time will also be taken for a leisurely lunch. Your tour concludes with your return to the port and your ship, with further breathtaking views of the lovely island of Tenerife to enjoy on the way.
Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.
TEN02 – PUERTO DE LA CRUZ
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Located off the west coast of Africa, Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, blessed with a mild climate and beautiful countryside as well as home to numerous wonderful seaside resorts, one of which you will visit on this enjoyable tour: the town of Puerto de la Cruz on the northern coast of the island. Only a short coach ride from the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz is the island’s main tourist centre, its capital and a great place to spend a few hours exploring the busy streets, soaking up the lively atmosphere or hitting the many shops to indulge in some serious retail therapy. Numerous seafront cafés provide a welcome chance to have a break and a drink, watch the world go by or enjoy grand views of the North Atlantic Ocean. A veritable paradise of plant life then awaits you at the next stop on the tour: the wonderful botanical gardens and their profusion of tropical plants. The relaxing return drive then brings the tour to a close.
TEN03 – A TASTE OF TENERIFE
Duration: approx. 5 hours
After leaving the port we will drive to San Andrés, a typical fishing village. We will stop at “Las Teresitas” beach before continuing our tour to “El Baladeiro”, the highest point on the island, with breathtaking views of the valley. We will then drive down towards the valley to reach the village of Taganana, famous for its vineyards and goat’s milk products. Taste some local cheese and wine before continuing to “La Laguna”, ancient Spanish capital.
Please note: this tour is not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.
TEN04 – JEEP ADVENTURE
Duration: approx. 5 hours
Known today as a holidaymaker’s delight with lively tourist resorts and beautiful beaches, the island of Tenerife was actually created around three million years ago by volcanic activity that served to fuse what had previously been three separate islands. The volcano that was responsible still dominates Tenerife today and can be found in the national park that shares its name: the majestic Mount Teide. This tour gives you an opportunity to explore the more remote parts of Tenerife’s amazing volcanic landscape from the comfort of a modern 4x4 vehicle. You will be collected at the pier, after which your driver will take you to see the lovely island in areas that are far off the beaten track. There will be some great photo opportunities on the way before you return to the port and your ship.
Please note: this tour is not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties. The jeep driver will give brief information in Spanish or English only.
TEN05 – LORO PARQUE
Duration: approx. 4.5 hours
Board a coach and enjoy a drive through the lush vegetation of Tenerife’s beautiful and rugged landscape to the Loro Parque, or parrot park in English. Situated on the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz, it counts as one of the most important wildlife parks in Europe. Originally opened in 1972 with the aim of being a parrot paradise, it has since grown not just in area, but also in the wide variety of species it supports. Apart from officially boasting “the most diverse collection of parrots in the world”, the park is also home to primates, jaguars and tigers, reptiles, exotic fish and sea horses as well as sea lions and dolphins, to name but a few. You will have sufficient time to explore the park on your own or with your family and enjoy its attractions, such as the popular sea lion and dolphin shows.
TEN07 – OROTAVA & PUEBLO CHICO
Duration: approx. 4 hours
A varied and entertaining half-day excursion awaits you that begins with a short coach ride through Tenerife’s exciting landscape to reach your first destination: the Orotava Valley and the small town of La Orotava. Founded in the 15th century by some of the wealthy families who lived on the island, the town has retained many appealing remains of its medieval beginnings. You will have a chance to take a stroll through the centre of the small town to reach the famous Casa de los Balcones, a 17th-century three-storey building that features pinewood balconies and patios to the front. The Casa is a typical example of what an aristocrat’s house would have looked like in the Canary Islands in this bygone age. Afterwards, you will have some free time to explore the co-located artwork complex and perhaps buy one of the exclusive locally made artisan products as a souvenir to take home. The tour then continues on to the nearby Pueblo Chico, a wonderful “miniature” theme park in the middle of the countryside with the majestic Mount Teide as its backdrop. Depicting various buildings, landscapes and historical regions from all over Tenerife and the neighbouring islands at a scale of 1:25, this marvellous open-air attraction will take you on a miniature round-trip of the Canary Islands’ most iconic sights – guaranteed to be great fun for the entire family. Return to the port.
Please note: this tour includes an approx. 1-hour walk; the tour is suitable for guests using a wheelchair, although there may be limitations at Orotava.
TEN08 – IMPRESSIONS OF TENERIFE
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Take some time out and get set to soak up some of the most arresting vistas that Tenerife has to offer, starting at one of the most romantic landscapes on the northern coast: La Garañona viewpoint. Gorgeous views of the craggy coastline and the Atlantic Ocean simply beg to be captured on film, so do bring your camera. The lovely little village of El Sauzal, a settlement that goes back to the island’s pre-Hispanic era and continues to observe Portuguese traditions, is next. As part of your visit, you will not only have a chance to view the early 16th-century Church of St. Peter, but also to walk to the 16th-century estate of the former Marquis of El Sauzal – known as El Marquesado. The colonial-style mansion boasts a wonderful terrace that not only affords sublime views of Mount Teide, but is also a charming spot to sip a glass of sparkling Spanish cava. Last on the itinerary are the verdant environs of García Sanabria park in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. With many trees and plants labelled with explanatory plaques, the attractively landscaped park is a great place to stretch your legs and go for a gentle walk through the luxuriant greenery. Your journey back to the ship then brings your tour to a close.
SANTORINI (Greece)
Beautiful Santorini, with its white-washed buildings, miles of blooming flowers and azure seas is the Greece of holiday brochures and sunsets here are reputed to be among the best in the world!
JTR01 - OIA VILLAGE
Duration: approx. 4 hours
A short tender ride from the ship will take you to Athinios port where we will board a bus to Oia, a typical Greek village characterized by narrow streets, traditional white churches with blue domes – a picture-postcard vision of the Mediterranean ! This village is famous for its hill-top location which offers a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Santorini. Delights of a different kind are in store at a nearby winery; we will sample local delicacies and enjoy a fun wine tasting session. We will end our trip at the village of Fira, near the Metropolis Church, from where our tour guides will instruct passengers on how to take the cable car down the port.
Please note: there may be long queues at the cable car station or to pick up the tender boat. This tour includes tender embarkation/disembarkation and walking on cobblestone streets with steps so is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.
JTR02 - EXCURSION IN THE “CALDERA”
Duration: approx. 3 hours
Sail through the “Caldera”, the Gulf of Santorini, to the tiny, uninhabited island of Nea Kameni. The island is home to a volcano which we will visit during our walking tour and which enriches the waters around the island. More islands are in store as we continue to Palea Kameni where our boat will anchor for about 30 minutes so passengers can swim from the boat in the warm, sulphuric waters. Return to the pier to take tenders back to the cruise ship.
Please note: the excursion operates from June until the end of September. There may be long queues to pick up the tender boat. Depending on the boat’s position you might swim for a while in open sea to reach hot springs. This tour is recommended to guests who can swim and is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties.
JTR03 – RELAX AT PERIVOLOS BEACH
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Your relaxing beach experience begins with a short trip on a tender to Athinios port, after which a coach will take you to Perivolos Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand giving onto the beautiful blue of the Aegean Sea. You will have some time to enjoy beach life and the various taverns, pubs and restaurants you will also find along the seafront. The rest of your trip will be spent sightseeing in Fira, the capital of the island of Santorini. You will be given instructions on how to reach the Metropolis Church and how to take the cable car back down to the port, where you will pick up your tender to return to the ship.
Please note: the excursion operates from June until the end of September. The price of hiring sun loungers and parasols at the beach is not included in the price of the excursion. There may be long queues at the cable car station or to board the tender boat.
JTR04 – THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF AKROTIRI
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