48-night Australia To Japan Grand Cruise
Azamara Cruises · Azamara Pursuit · 48 nights · Sydney–Tokyo
From $15,029 per person
What's Included
ALWAYS INCLUDED AMENITIES FOR ALL GUESTS:
- Variety of Dining Venues & 24-hour Room Service
- Beer, Wine, and Spirits All Day & Night
- Signature AzAmazing Evenings
- Unlimited Self-Service Laundry
- Onboard Gratuities
ALWAYS EXPECTED AMENITIES FOR ALL GUESTS:
- Overnights & Extended Destination Days
- Unique & Iconic Destinations
- No Hassle, No Crowds
- Warm & Attentive Service
ALL SUITES INCLUDE:
- Dedicated butler and concierge service
- Full in-suite dining and daily evening hors d’oeuvres
- Complimentary Specialty Dining and exclusive breakfast at Aqualina
- In-room premium spirits and champagne
- Thalassotherapy Pool access
- Personalized assistance planning spa appointments and shore excursions
- Priority check-in, news delivery, shoeshine service & more
ADDITIONAL INCLUSIONS FOR CONTINENT SUITE GUESTS:
- Unlimited Basic Starlink Wi-Fi (1 device per guest)
- Expanded Wash & Fold Laundry Allowance
ADDITIONAL INCLUSIONS FOR WORLD OWNER'S, OCEAN, AND SPA SUITE GUESTS:
- Unlimited Beverage Package
- Unlimited Basic Starlink Wi-Fi (2 devices per guest)
- Unlimited Wash & Fold Laundry
- Exclusive Acamar Experience Dinner
Available Add-Ons
Optional Roundtrip airfare from your city
Optional shore excursions
Itinerary
Feb 5 Sydney
Sydney
Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty. Kayak under the Sydney Harbour Bridge or wave at the Opera House as you ride a ferry across the harbour to Manly. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach or swim in the calm waters of Coogee. Lose yourself in the cobblestone cul-de-sacs of The Rocks or in the markets, boutiques, cafes and pubs of Paddington. As well as a world-famous harbour and more than 70 sparkling beaches, Sydney offers fabulous food, festivals and 24-7 fun.
Five Sydney Experiences Not to Miss:
1. Explore the historic Rocks
Discover Sydney’s colorful convict history in the harbourside quarter where it all began. Just five minutes from Circular Quay, you can hear stories of hangings and hauntings on a ghost tour, wander the weekend markets or climb the span of the Harbour Bridge. In amongst the maze of sandstone lanes and courtyards, you’ll find historic workman’s cottages and elegant terraces, art galleries, hotels with harbour views and Sydney’s oldest pubs. See people spill out of them onto a party on the cobblestone streets when The Rocks celebrates Australia Day on January 26th, Anzac Day on April 25th and New Years Eve.
2. Hit the world-famous harbour
Sail past the Opera House on a chartered yacht or paddle from Rose Bay in a kayak. Take a scenic cruise from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour, past waterfront mansions, national parks and Shark, Clark, Rodd and Goat islands. Tour historic Fort Denison or learn about the life of Sydney’s first inhabitants, the Gadigal people, on an Aboriginal cultural cruise. Watch the harbour glitter from the green parklands of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which curves around its edge. Or take in the view from a waterfront restaurant in Mosman, on the northern side of the bridge, or Watsons Bay at South Head. Walk from Rose Bay to Vaucluse or Cremorne Point to Mosman Bay, on just some of the 16 spectacular routes hugging the harbour foreshore.
3. Visit Manly on the ferry
Travel across Sydney Harbour on a ferry to Manly, which sits between beaches of ocean surf and tranquil inner harbour. Wander through native bushland on the scenic Manly to Spit Bridge walk, learn to scuba-dive at Cabbage Tree Bay or ride a bike to Fairy Bower. Picnic at Shelly Beach on the ocean and sail or kayak from Manly Wharf round the harbour. Hire a scooter and do a round trip of northern beaches such as Narrabeen and Palm Beach. Explore the shops, bars and cafes along the bustling pine tree-lined Corso and dine at world-class restaurants with water views.
4. Enjoy café culture and top shopping in Paddington
Meander through the Saturday markets, browse fashion boutiques on bustling Oxford Street or discover the antique shops and art galleries in upmarket Woollahra. Visit the 1840s Victoria Barracks Army base, open to the public once a week, and see restored Victorian terraces on wide, leafy streets. Ride or roller-blade in huge Centennial Park, then stop for coffee and lunch on Oxford St or in the mini-village of Five Ways. Catch a movie at an art-house cinema or leaf through a novel at midnight in one of the huge bookstores. Crawl between the lively, historic pubs. They hum even more after a game at the nearby stadium or a race day, when girls and guys arrive in their crumpled trackside finery.
5. Walk from Bondi to Coogee
Take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as you walk the winding, sea-sculpted sandstone cliffs between Bondi and Coogee. Swim in the famous Bondi Icebergs rock pool or just watch the swimmers with a sunset cocktail from the restaurant above. See wild waves in Tamarama, nicknamed Glamarama for the beautiful people who lie on its golden sand. From mid-October to November, the stretch from here to Bondi is transformed into an outdoor gallery for the Sculptures by the Sea exhibition. You can surf, picnic on the grass or stop for a coffee at family-friendly Bronte. Or swim, snorkel or scuba dive in Clovelly and tranquil Gordon’s Bay. See the graves of poets Henry Lawson, Dorothea Mackellar and aviator Lawrence Hargrave in Waverley Cemetery, on the edge of the cliffs. Finish your tour in the scenic, backpacker haven of Coogee.
Feb 6 At Sea
Feb 7 Mooloolaba
Feb 8 At Sea
Feb 9 Airlie Beach
Being the focal point of activity on the mainland and the gateway to The Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday in paradise. Popular activities in the Airlie Beach area include: Sailing the islands, day trips to the Great Barrier Reef, skydiving, snorkeling, and even crocodile safaris. Moreover, Airlie Beach is not only perfect due to it's vast array of activities, but also its many dining options, shops, and pubs.
Feb 10 Cairns
Cairns is the sunny garden city where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Wet Tropics Rainforest, mountains and the gulf savannah not too far away. The city's water front boasts a world class marina and wharf used by visiting cruise liners, yachts and tour vessels. Cairns is situated in the Northern end of Tropical Queensland Australia. It's a modern city with a good location to explore some of Australia's vast array of flora and fauna. With a magnificent Casino, Cairns is alive with more activities than a visitor will ever have time for. The principal attraction is the over 60 national parks from the wet tropical rain forests and lush tablelands to the truly wild Cape York Peninsula and the Great Barrier Reef.
Feb 11 Cairns
Cairns is the sunny garden city where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Wet Tropics Rainforest, mountains and the gulf savannah not too far away. The city's water front boasts a world class marina and wharf used by visiting cruise liners, yachts and tour vessels. Cairns is situated in the Northern end of Tropical Queensland Australia. It's a modern city with a good location to explore some of Australia's vast array of flora and fauna. With a magnificent Casino, Cairns is alive with more activities than a visitor will ever have time for. The principal attraction is the over 60 national parks from the wet tropical rain forests and lush tablelands to the truly wild Cape York Peninsula and the Great Barrier Reef.
Feb 12 At Sea
Feb 13 At Sea
Feb 14 At Sea
Feb 15 Darwin
Darwin
Soak up Darwin's balmy weather and the melting pot of food and cultures in the city's many outdoor festivals and markets. Then explore the region's dramatic history - from World War II air raids to Cyclone Tracey - in the museums and galleries. Sail Darwin harbour at sunset, cruise next to crocodiles and bushwalk through monsoon forest. Swim in the crystal-clear waterholes of Litchfield National Park and visit the colourful communities of the Tiwi Islands. This vibrant, tropical capital has a youthful energy you'll find hard to resist.
Five ways to discover Darwin and its surrounds:
1. At festivals, markets and on the harbour In Darwin, the action happens outside - in markets, parks, by the beach or on boats. You can join the locals with a crate and a plate of sizzling satay at The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets from May to October. Or watch them build boats out of beer or soft drink cans at the annual Darwin Beer Can Regatta in July. At the Deckchair Cinema from April to November you can watch movies under a canopy of stars with a drink from the bar and a picnic dinner. Soak up Darwin's tropical weather with a harbourside dinner at Cullen Bay Marina or a sunset harbour cruise complete with a history lesson.
2. With wildlife and in tropical parklands
Cycle past orchids and bromeliads and traditional Aboriginal plants in George Brown Botanic Gardens. Swim, have a sunset barbecue and explore sacred Aboriginal sites at Casuarina Coastal Reserve. In Berry Springs Nature Park, you can spot birds in monsoon forest and fish in the crystal clear swimming holes. Get up close to fish, birds-of-prey, nocturnal animals and reptiles in the Territory Wildlife Park, a 45-minute drive from Darwin. Have a close crocodile encounter at Crocodylus Park, the Darwin Crocodile Farm or on a crocodile cruise along Darwin's coastal fringe and rivers.
3. Hot on the heels of history
Learn more about Darwin's rich Aboriginal heritage in the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. Here you can also relive the tragic Cyclone Tracy which hit Darwin on Christmas Eve in 1974. See the Chinese Temple it nearly destroyed in Litchfield Street. Darwin endured 64 Japanese air raids in World War II, and you can watch dramatic footage of the bombings and visit the bunker where Top End defense strategy was planned at East Point Military Museum. See original B52 bomber planes at the Aviation Heritage Centre and a network of walking trails leading to World War II oil tunnels around the Wharf Precinct. In Myilly Point Historical Precinct you can see some of the few surviving cottages designed by architect B.C.G Burnett in the colonial style popular before World War II.
4. Under the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park
Make time for a day trip to the waterfalls and plunge pools, wildlife and birdlife, ranges and rainforest of Litchfield National Park, a one-and-a-half hour drive from Darwin. Swim in the crystal-clear swimming hole at the base of Florence Falls and bush-walk through monsoon rain-forest to Walker Creek. Picnic next to roosting fruit bats at Wangi Falls and see sweeping valley views at Tolmer Falls. Take a wildlife cruise on the Reynolds River, part of a working cattle station. Explore this Tarzan landscape with traditional Aboriginal owners the Wagait people or peer into a pastoral past in the ruins of Blyth Homestead.
5. On a trip to the Tiwi Islands
Join in the excitement of the Tiwi Islands Grand Football Final, held every March in Nguiu. Browse and buy Tiwi art, distinctive for its strong design, decorative features and vivid colours. Take billy tea and damper tea with Tiwi ladies as they demonstrate traditional weaving and painting. Then watch them perform a traditional dance and a smoking ceremony to clear bad spirits. Catch big barramundi on a fishing tour on the Tiwi coast. You'll find a warm welcome and a lush landscape of rainforest, beaches and rock pools on Melville and Bathurst Islands, together known as the Tiwi Islands. Explore them on a day or overnight tour, traveling a 20-minute flight or two-hour ferry from Darwin.
Feb 16 At Sea
Feb 17 At Sea
Feb 18 Benoa
Benoa (Tanjung Benoa) is a modern Balinese resort - a government-run dreamland of coconut palms, white sand beaches and pristine waters located near the island's southernmost tip. Geologically, the area is quite different from the rest of Bali, and even from the rest of the Bukit peninsula upon which it rests. Instead of rice fields or limestone cliffs, there is sandy soil reaching down to a long, sandy beach protected by a reef. Coconut trees are everywhere. The climate here is also drier than the rest of Bali, freshened by a mild ocean breeze.
Excursions
Bali Highlights & Twin Lakes - 9 hours - Benoa
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Your adventure begins at the conclusion of your welcoming ceremony.
- After boarding your motor coach you’ll drive through the emerald green hills and into central Bali.
- Your first stop is Sangeh Monkey Forest, a 34-acre sanctuary for hundreds of monkeys.
- Visit the 400-year-old Pura Bukit Sari Sangeh Temple.
- Next on your itinerary, you’ll see Lake Bratan. Located almost 4,000 feet above sea level, this sparkling lake sits in the crater of Mt. Catur.
- Then, you’ll make a photo stop at a viewing area where you can look out over the “twin lakes,” Buyan Lake, the smallest lake in Bali, and Tamblingan Lake.
- Continuing on, you’ll head over to the highland village of Munduk for lunch.
- After lunch, you’ll visit the colourful Pasar Candi Kuning market. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, you can also purchase handicrafts, paintings, and fabrics.
- Your final destination is the village of Tohpati, famous for its fine batik. After observing the batik process you can try your hand at painting traditional batik designs.
- Later, you're invited to browse for souvenirs, gifts and fine Balinese crafts.
- When your exciting highland exploration comes to an end, you’ll return to your motorcoach, perhaps laden with crafts from the market or Tohpati, for the relaxing ride back to your ship.
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Benoa Port
- Entrance Fees, English speaking guide assistance, Welcome dance
- Soft drinks/ mineral water/ refreshments, Lunch
- Personal expenses, telephone, laundry service, tips and gratuities, personal travel insurance
- All services which are not mentioned on the program above.
Bali’s Heritage Sites – 9 hours - Benoa
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- After a traditional Balinese pendet welcome dance, you’ll board your motorcoach and travel to Tohpati near the capital city of Denpasar. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful landscapes of coastal plains, lush terraced hillsides, rice paddies, and fruit and spice plantations.
- Once you arrive in Tohpati, you’ll visit a factory to see first hand the entire batik process.
- After observing the batik process you can try your hand at painting traditional batik designs.
- Later, you're invited to browse for souvenirs, gifts and fine Balinese crafts.
- Re-board your coach and travel to Penglipuran Culture Village. The village people live under strict rules just like their ancestors centuries ago.
- Continuing on, you’ll visit Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple of Bali. Perched over 3,000 feet up the gentle slopes of Mt. Agung, Bali’s largest and holiest temple dates back 2,000 years.
- Next, is a delicious buffet lunch featuring Indonesian dishes in the village of Rendang. As you enjoy your meal, marvel at the breathtaking views of the rice paddies and Mt. Agung.
- Following lunch, you’ll journey to the village of Klungkung for a photo stop at Kertha Gosa.
- Finally, you’ll travel to your ship with photos and memories to share with everyone back home.
Tour can operate: Full day
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Benoa Port
- Entrance Fees, English speaking guide assistance, Welcome dance
- Soft drinks / mineral water / refreshments / lunch / snacks
- Personal expenses, telephone, laundry service, tips and gratuities, personal travel insurance.
- All services which are not mentioned on the program above.
Mt. Batur & Rural Bali with a Local Family – 8 hours - Benoa
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- This unique full-day excursion not only introduces you to a local family but offers you the opportunity to learn a little bit about their culture and language.
- Your day begins with a pendet welcome ceremony at the pier.
- Then, you’ll board your motorcoach and travel into central Bali.
- You’ll continue on to a charming village and disembark at a Balinese home and meet a local family. After a warm welcome, you’ll join them for a traditional Balinese breakfast, which may include fried banana fritters and rice cakes served with coffee or tea.
- Later, you’ll go for a stroll through the village and stop for a welcome dance performed by local children. Then, you’ll walk through the farms and watch the farmers at work in the rice fields.
- To experience the spiritual side of Bali, you’ll climb back aboard your coach bound for Kehen Temple, considered the most beautiful Hindu temple on the island.
- You’ll then proceed to an Indonesian buffet lunch in the village of Kintamani, which sits on the edge of Mt. Batur. Relax over your delicious meal while marvelling at the outstanding views of the active volcano and the sparkling waters of Lake Batur
- Kemenuh is the centre of the intricate art of woodcarving. You’ll visit a woodcarving studio and watch skilled craftsmen.
- Before returning to port, you can comb through the gallery and purchase these wooden works of art that capture the spirit of this incredible place.
Tour can operate: Full day
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Benoa Port
- Entrance Fees, English speaking guide assistance, Welcome dance
- Soft drinks/ mineral water/ refreshments, Balinese breakfast, lunch
- Personal expenses, telephone, laundry service, tips and gratuities, personal travel insurance
- All services which are not mentioned on the program above
Feb 19 At Sea
Feb 20 Semarang
Semarang is one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, situated on Java's north coast between the shore of the Java Sea and a small ridge of mountains. With a population of over one million, Semarang is the largest city in Central Java and its capital. Semarang serves as a popular gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java and to fabled Borobudur. Pasar Johar Market is the sprawling central market, selling brassware and bric-a-brac in addition to foodstuffs and textiles. Citraland is a convenient shopping mall on Simpang Lima, one of the major shopping streets. The majority of Semarang’s restaurants are centered around Jalan Gajah Mada. Their menus feature every variety of Asian cuisine. Other sights include Gereja Blenduk - a Protestant Dutch church dating from 1753 and the oldest church in Central Java. Built in the shape of a Greek cross, it features a baroque organ and pulpit; and Chinatown - offering such buildings as the Confucian Thay Kak Sie Pagoda, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy and built in 1772.
Excursions
Borobudur Temple and Steam Train Museum – 9 hours - Semarang
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Your full day tour begins with a traditional Javanese welcome dance, followed by a scenic 56-mile drive through the dramatic landscape of central Java, to the town of Ambarawa.
- En route, you'll travel through the Candi residential district and the highlands of the interior. Numerous volcanoes and the inspiring volcano, Mount Merapi, dot the landscape.
- Upon arriving, you'll visit the Ambarawa Railway Museum, home to locomotives dating back 150 years.
- Next on your itinerary is a drive to Borobudur Temple, a 9th-century Buddhist temple.
- After an awe-inspiring visit, you'll enjoy a delicious Javanese buffet lunch served adjacent to the temple.
- Your central Java tour concludes with a return drive to Semarang and a stop at Coffee Eva House for traditional rice cakes, banana or other seasonal fruits, and java coffee or tea.
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Tanjung Emas Port
- Entrance Fees, English speaking guide assistance
- Soft drinks/ mineral water/ refreshments/ lunch/ snacks
- Personal expenses, telephone, laundry service, tips and gratuities, personal travel insurance
- All services which are not mentioned on the program above.
Feb 21 Jakarta
For most travelers, Jakarta, Indonesia, is either part of a business trip or a pit stop on the way to more popular tourist destinations such as Bali and Yogyakarta. In truth, most find little that makes them want to linger in Indonesia's capital: A large, crowded city on the island of Java, Jakarta evokes few beautiful or memorable images. One exception is the Gedung Kesenian Jakarta, the city's art building.
To appreciate this city, visitors need to seek out Jakarta's sights that invoke the historical heritage as a meeting place for East and West. These include the remnants of the Dutch colonial era and the old schooner harbor, Sunda Kelapa, still hard at work and looking much as it did in previous centuries.
Don't be surprised, though, if modern Jakarta begins to grow on you: Its jarring mix of trendy nightspots, teeming streets and occasional political demonstrations bespeaks a place where the present is unfolding in an exciting—if not always orderly—manner. The city's image is slowly changing, however, and Jakarta has many fine hotels, shopping malls and golf courses in and around the metropolitan area to entice visitors to stay a little longer.
Travelers to Indonesia should be aware that tsunamis and earthquakes are part of the travel equation. Both are unpredictable, but travel warnings from embassies come into force quickly in the unlikely event that they should occur.
Feb 22 At Sea
Feb 23 Singapore
One of Asia's great economic successes, Singapore has fused diverse cultures into one dynamic nation. Behind high-tech industries and high-rise buildings lives a society with an ingrained sense of conservative Confucian values. Beneath the westernized modernity beats a totally Asian heart. Strong beliefs center around extended families, filial piety, discipline, respect and Asian work ethics. Singapore’s name, meaning "Lion City," can be traced to the 13th century, and today there is the mythical Merlion, half-lion, half-fish, standing guard at the mouth of the Singapore River as the symbol of Singapore. A recent advertising campaign billed Singapore as "A Fine City."
Excursions
Half Day Singapore City Tour – 4 hours - Singapore
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Bumboat Ride
- Merlion Park
- Drive around the Civic District
- National Orchid Garden Admission
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, if guests can walk a short
distance to board the bumboat when wheelchair must be foldable to fit into the minivan.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off services to/from cruise port
- Licensed, professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation by deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle
- A Bottled Water
- Meals that are not mentioned in the above itinerary
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurants, etc.
Singapore - Good Morning, Ni Hao (Walking Tour)
— Optional Private Excursions
GOOD MORNING, NI HAO (WALKING TOUR)
Destination: Singapore
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSINSP001
Tour Description:
Move your senses with the sights and sounds of a wet market and watch how locals hunt for the freshest bargain. It's no mystery why the term 'wet' is used as stall owners use water in the market to wash floors, to keep fruits and vegetables fresh, and to keep seafood alive. Check out local favorites like century egg, black chicken and wide array of spices. Next adjourn to Singapore's largest hawker centre for a leisurely breakfast. Your day is not complete without visiting a traditional heritage shop where you will see where locals purchase their supply of herbs, tonic and even pastries, which are used for family tea time. End your tour on a sweet note with a sampling of local desserts.
Notes:
- Pick up time: 09:00
- The market visit will be substituted if it’s closed for spring cleaning
- Inclusion: Food sampling at hawker centre and local dessert shop are included.
- Capacity: 1 – 14 persons. Bigger group is on request basis.
- Availability: Everyday, except during F1 Period when surcharge might be applied.
- Guide: TBA
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Full Day Singapore Tour – 8 hours - Singapore
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Bumboat Ride
- Merlion Park
- Drive around the Civic District
- National Orchid Garden Admission
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Kampong Glam
- Arab Street
- Chinatown
- Little India
- Tekka Centre
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, if guests can walk a short distance to board the bumboat when wheelchair must be foldable to fit into the minivan.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off services to/from cruise port
- Licensed, professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation by deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled Water
- Meals that are not mentioned in the above itinerary
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities.
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurants, etc.
Singapore - Gardens By The Bay (3.5 Hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Enter one of the "Top 10 Indoor Gardens of the World" - a futuristic area of garden artistry and horticulture spread over 101 hectares.
- In the Flower Dome we can marvel at the world's largest glass greenhouse, and wander amongst baobabs, thousand-year-old olive trees, a changing flower field display and more.
- In the Cloud Forest we will enter a mysterious world veiled in mist, as we come face to face with the 35-metre tall indoor waterfall and explore seven discovery zones.
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- English-speaking guide.
- Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle.
- 1 complimentary bottle of drinking water and 1 cold towel per person per half day tour/ 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person per full day tour.
- Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary.
- Visa fees
- Lunch
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
Singapore - Heartlands Tour (3.5 Hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Toa Payoh New Town. This is the first town to be built by the Housing Development Board, the government arm in charge of public housing in Singapore.
- Explore a typical self-sufficient town complete with public vs private housing, public transport, public amenities as well as industrial and commercial areas.
- Visit the public recreation areas and view a typical show flat for a public housing building. Visits to a wet market and hawker centre will give us an even deeper glimpse into local life. (Showflat is not open on Sundays and public holidays)
Tour Duration: 3.5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning (Suggested starting time: 09h00 or 14h00)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Local English Speaking Guide
- Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle.
- 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person
- Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary.
- Personal Expenses, Tipping
Singapore City Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half-day tour to Singapore City
Highlights
- Botanical Gardens
- Chinatown
- Bum Boat ride - 30-minute ride (share-basis)
- Merlion Park & Little India
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel Insurance
- Any Visa
Singapore Sentosa Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half-day tour to Singapore - Sentosa
Highlights
- Sentosa Resort
- Sentosa Merlion Tower
- SEA Aquarium
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Night Safari Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Evening Singapore Safari Tour
Highlights
- 1815 hrs Singapore Night Safari
- 2215 hrs Return to hotel
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Ethnic Neighbourhood Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half Day Tour to Singapore Ethnic Neighbourhood
Highlights
- Kampong Glam
- Bugis Village
- Trishaw ride (2 persons to 1 Trishaw)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Foodie Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Singapore Foodie
Highlights
- Maxwell Hawker Centre or Lau Pat Sat (either one of the above venue depending availability)
- Tea Chapter
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Flyer & Gardens By The Bay (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Singapore Flyer & Gardens By The Bay
Highlights
- Singapore Flyer - a 35 minutes ride (share-basis)
- Gardens by the Bay (Flower Dome and Cloud Forest)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Toa Payoh Hub Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Singapore Toa Payoh Hub
Highlights
- Toa Payoh (a first generation New Town built in the late 1960s)
- Coffee break in a local coffee shop
- Take a subway for a 5 minutes drive to Bishan (a second generation New Town, designed and built in the early 1990's)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Crazy Rich Asians Movie Locations Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Crazy Rich Asians Movie Locations in Singapore
Highlights
- Bukit Pasoh
- Newton Food Centre
- Chijmes
- Raffles Hotel
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Feb 24 Singapore
One of Asia's great economic successes, Singapore has fused diverse cultures into one dynamic nation. Behind high-tech industries and high-rise buildings lives a society with an ingrained sense of conservative Confucian values. Beneath the westernized modernity beats a totally Asian heart. Strong beliefs center around extended families, filial piety, discipline, respect and Asian work ethics. Singapore’s name, meaning "Lion City," can be traced to the 13th century, and today there is the mythical Merlion, half-lion, half-fish, standing guard at the mouth of the Singapore River as the symbol of Singapore. A recent advertising campaign billed Singapore as "A Fine City."
Excursions
Half Day Singapore City Tour – 4 hours - Singapore
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Bumboat Ride
- Merlion Park
- Drive around the Civic District
- National Orchid Garden Admission
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, if guests can walk a short
distance to board the bumboat when wheelchair must be foldable to fit into the minivan.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off services to/from cruise port
- Licensed, professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation by deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle
- A Bottled Water
- Meals that are not mentioned in the above itinerary
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurants, etc.
Singapore - Good Morning, Ni Hao (Walking Tour)
— Optional Private Excursions
GOOD MORNING, NI HAO (WALKING TOUR)
Destination: Singapore
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSINSP001
Tour Description:
Move your senses with the sights and sounds of a wet market and watch how locals hunt for the freshest bargain. It's no mystery why the term 'wet' is used as stall owners use water in the market to wash floors, to keep fruits and vegetables fresh, and to keep seafood alive. Check out local favorites like century egg, black chicken and wide array of spices. Next adjourn to Singapore's largest hawker centre for a leisurely breakfast. Your day is not complete without visiting a traditional heritage shop where you will see where locals purchase their supply of herbs, tonic and even pastries, which are used for family tea time. End your tour on a sweet note with a sampling of local desserts.
Notes:
- Pick up time: 09:00
- The market visit will be substituted if it’s closed for spring cleaning
- Inclusion: Food sampling at hawker centre and local dessert shop are included.
- Capacity: 1 – 14 persons. Bigger group is on request basis.
- Availability: Everyday, except during F1 Period when surcharge might be applied.
- Guide: TBA
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Full Day Singapore Tour – 8 hours - Singapore
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Bumboat Ride
- Merlion Park
- Drive around the Civic District
- National Orchid Garden Admission
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Kampong Glam
- Arab Street
- Chinatown
- Little India
- Tekka Centre
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, if guests can walk a short distance to board the bumboat when wheelchair must be foldable to fit into the minivan.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off services to/from cruise port
- Licensed, professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation by deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled Water
- Meals that are not mentioned in the above itinerary
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities.
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurants, etc.
Singapore - Gardens By The Bay (3.5 Hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Enter one of the "Top 10 Indoor Gardens of the World" - a futuristic area of garden artistry and horticulture spread over 101 hectares.
- In the Flower Dome we can marvel at the world's largest glass greenhouse, and wander amongst baobabs, thousand-year-old olive trees, a changing flower field display and more.
- In the Cloud Forest we will enter a mysterious world veiled in mist, as we come face to face with the 35-metre tall indoor waterfall and explore seven discovery zones.
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- English-speaking guide.
- Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle.
- 1 complimentary bottle of drinking water and 1 cold towel per person per half day tour/ 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person per full day tour.
- Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary.
- Visa fees
- Lunch
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
Singapore - Heartlands Tour (3.5 Hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Toa Payoh New Town. This is the first town to be built by the Housing Development Board, the government arm in charge of public housing in Singapore.
- Explore a typical self-sufficient town complete with public vs private housing, public transport, public amenities as well as industrial and commercial areas.
- Visit the public recreation areas and view a typical show flat for a public housing building. Visits to a wet market and hawker centre will give us an even deeper glimpse into local life. (Showflat is not open on Sundays and public holidays)
Tour Duration: 3.5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning (Suggested starting time: 09h00 or 14h00)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Local English Speaking Guide
- Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle.
- 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person
- Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary.
- Personal Expenses, Tipping
Singapore City Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half-day tour to Singapore City
Highlights
- Botanical Gardens
- Chinatown
- Bum Boat ride - 30-minute ride (share-basis)
- Merlion Park & Little India
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel Insurance
- Any Visa
Singapore Sentosa Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half-day tour to Singapore - Sentosa
Highlights
- Sentosa Resort
- Sentosa Merlion Tower
- SEA Aquarium
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Night Safari Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Evening Singapore Safari Tour
Highlights
- 1815 hrs Singapore Night Safari
- 2215 hrs Return to hotel
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Ethnic Neighbourhood Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half Day Tour to Singapore Ethnic Neighbourhood
Highlights
- Kampong Glam
- Bugis Village
- Trishaw ride (2 persons to 1 Trishaw)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Foodie Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Singapore Foodie
Highlights
- Maxwell Hawker Centre or Lau Pat Sat (either one of the above venue depending availability)
- Tea Chapter
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Flyer & Gardens By The Bay (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Singapore Flyer & Gardens By The Bay
Highlights
- Singapore Flyer - a 35 minutes ride (share-basis)
- Gardens by the Bay (Flower Dome and Cloud Forest)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Toa Payoh Hub Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Singapore Toa Payoh Hub
Highlights
- Toa Payoh (a first generation New Town built in the late 1960s)
- Coffee break in a local coffee shop
- Take a subway for a 5 minutes drive to Bishan (a second generation New Town, designed and built in the early 1990's)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Singapore Crazy Rich Asians Movie Locations Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Crazy Rich Asians Movie Locations in Singapore
Highlights
- Bukit Pasoh
- Newton Food Centre
- Chijmes
- Raffles Hotel
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Feb 25 At Sea
Feb 26 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is often referred to as Vietnam’s jewel and the Pearl of the Orient. Located in south Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the country’s largest city, with more than six million people and over one million motorbikes. Under the current regime the city is once more being rebuilt. Whole blocks are disappearing, being replaced by concrete, steel and glass structures. Central Saigon, which is still the official name for the city center, shows evidence of the French colonial city, with wide, tree-lined boulevards, sidewalk cafés and elegant French architecture. The city is divided into two sections: Saigon, the municipal and historical district, and Cholon (Chinatown), where the entrepreneurial talent and private funds are concentrated. Cholon appears to be the most populated and in general the most vigorous part of Ho Chi Minh City. It is well worth a visit for its bustle and activity and its pagodas, which are reputed to be the finest in the whole city.
Excursions
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English Speaking Local Guides.
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa arrival
- Other meals than those specified
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit History Museum & Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Visit China Town & Cao Dai Temple en-route
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Get on a motorized sampan to experience the life of local people, visit local brickwork, local fruit farms, family workshops Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Take rowing-boat along water palm creek and cruise back to the Pier
- If time permits, have a quick visit of Sai Gon or shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Private boat cruise on Mekong River
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Saigon Port
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon City Highlights
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusions: Lunch with the foods prepared during the cooking class.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Age restrictions: Children from 12 years old onward are allowed by joining the cooking station with their parents.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - Retracing The Past
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: Simple pho at Pho Binh is included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- This excursion is only available for any guests arriving to Saigon via Nha Rong port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: 16:30
- Inclusions: Set menu at Noir restaurant.
- Capacity: Maximum 10 pax due to the limited space of Bung Sang Home.
- Age restrictions: Children from 10 years old onward are allowed to enjoy the dining experience. For younger children, this experience may be a little frightening and informing in advance is highly recommended.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Dress code: Smart casual is highly recommended. Shorts and slippers are fine, however no tank tops and no glowing shoes, clothing or accessories.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: TBA. In the morning and is subject to cruise docking time.
- Inclusions: home hosted lunch
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Feb 27 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is often referred to as Vietnam’s jewel and the Pearl of the Orient. Located in south Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the country’s largest city, with more than six million people and over one million motorbikes. Under the current regime the city is once more being rebuilt. Whole blocks are disappearing, being replaced by concrete, steel and glass structures. Central Saigon, which is still the official name for the city center, shows evidence of the French colonial city, with wide, tree-lined boulevards, sidewalk cafés and elegant French architecture. The city is divided into two sections: Saigon, the municipal and historical district, and Cholon (Chinatown), where the entrepreneurial talent and private funds are concentrated. Cholon appears to be the most populated and in general the most vigorous part of Ho Chi Minh City. It is well worth a visit for its bustle and activity and its pagodas, which are reputed to be the finest in the whole city.
Excursions
Cu Chi Tunnels & Sai Gon Highlights Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour Duration: 10 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English Speaking Local Guides.
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa arrival
- Other meals than those specified
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants
Highlights of Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Reunification Palace
- Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Visit History Museum & Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Visit China Town & Cao Dai Temple en-route
- Shopping at the Central Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Mekong Delta Tour – 10 hours - Saigon
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Get on a motorized sampan to experience the life of local people, visit local brickwork, local fruit farms, family workshops Photo stop at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Centre Post Office
- Take rowing-boat along water palm creek and cruise back to the Pier
- If time permits, have a quick visit of Sai Gon or shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up/ Drop off at Phu My Port
- Tours and transfers as specified including entry fees, on a private basis in modern air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service of English-speaking local guides
- Private boat cruise on Mekong River
- Ports permit arranged
- Meals (food only) as stated in the above itinerary
- One 0.5 litre of bottled water and cold towel in the vehicle during sightseeing
- Vietnam Government tax and services charge
Not Included:
- All international and domestic air tickets
- Accommodation
- Vietnamese visa on arrival
- Other meals than those specified.
- Travel insurance
- Tips for tour guides, drivers, waiters at included meals, local assistants, etc.
Saigon Port
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Saigon City Highlights
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 8-9 hours
Code: MDSGNSE002
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong Port or Hiep Phuoc Port), drive to the city centre for a tour of some of Saigon’s historic landmarks reflecting its French and Chinese influences. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed from materials imported from France (entrance is only permitted when no services are being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, completed in 1891. Appreciate the restored exteriors of the Saigon Opera House and the elegant City Hall (the former Hotel de Ville), two of Saigon’s most stunning colonial monuments. If time permits, we will visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market, one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular wholesale market for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and street food. After lunch, we drive to Saigon’s Chinatown to visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century to honour the Goddess of the Sea. Take time to make a wish, write it on a small card and attach it to one of the incense coils according to local custom. Continue your visit to FITO, the first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam, offering insight into the history and application of traditional medicine in everyday life before taking the scenic route through the city back to the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - Cooking Class at Ambassador's Former Residence
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE015
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. The Vietnamese cooking class commences with a visit to Ben Thanh market to buy all the fresh ingredients before continuing to this historic home for a private hands-on cooking demonstration. The guide will provide an orientation tour of the house while the chef prepares the ingredients. Learn typical Southern style dishes such as Fresh Spring Roll, Pan Cake, and Fish in clay pot. The chef will show you how to serve each dish before the meal, and you will need to master the chopsticks before you can savor your own culinary creations in the old-world ambiance of the villa. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusions: Lunch with the foods prepared during the cooking class.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Age restrictions: Children from 12 years old onward are allowed by joining the cooking station with their parents.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - Retracing The Past
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Cu Chi Tunnels
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Commence with a visit of the shrine outside of the US Consulate then continue to the former CIA building (outside visit only), where helicopters evacuated the remaining US citizens in 1975. Head to the rooftop café of the Rex hotel, a familiar landmark for Americans during the Vietnam War. Sit down for a drink, enjoy the view and this piece of history which your guide will help to explain. Then visit the Reunification Palace for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and residence of the presidents. Drive to the former residence of the US Ambassador of South Vietnam in the early 1960s, Mr. Henry C. Lodge, who conducted a mission to overthrow the South Vietnamese Government. Watch a 10 minutes documentary film about Saigon during that time while enjoying a cold drink. Then drive to a secret weapon chamber which VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War. Then weave through tiny back alleys and meet and chat with the locals who are living in tiny houses. Head to a historic venue for a late lunch of “pho” (noodle soup). The house number 07 on Ly Chinh Thang Street (former Yen Do street) is now known as Pho Binh restaurant which used to be the headquarters of Viet Cong Commanders where they gathered to plan for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Take a walk upstairs to learn more about the history through the family’s photo collection. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: Simple pho at Pho Binh is included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon City Tour on Vintage Car
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Code: MDSGNSE011
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Saigon is the country’s commercial center and, with over eight million inhabitants and four million motorbikes, a city that never sleeps. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Driven in a charming vintage car to visit the city’s highlights is one of the most wonderful & lavish way. Sit back and enjoy a city tour to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (Outside visit only due the renovation at Notre Dame Cathedral until 2027). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel. Continue your visit with the former Presidential Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon Government during the American war, revealing the history of Saigon during its turbulent recent past. Further, head to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid insight of the American war through the local’s eyes (Please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- This excursion is only available for any guests arriving to Saigon via Nha Rong port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Musician Family Visit
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE014
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then visit a local family of musicians. Learn about traditional musical instruments through conversations with the artists and listen to the performances from each family member (3-generations). You then have the chance to try the instruments yourself - a memorable if somewhat noisy experience! Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Inclusion: No meal included
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Due to the anticipated completion of the renovation project for Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral in 2027, we are limited to exploring its exterior for the time being.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - In The Dark: A Blind Experience
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 4-5 hours
Code: MDSGNSE016
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Then drive to Bung Sang, a small private home and school for over a hundred blind orphans in Saigon. The school was founded by a blind musician - Mr. Dao Khanh Truong. With the love and care for unlucky children, he spent most of his life teaching the children and gathering support from the benefactors. After he passed away few years ago, Bung Sang was given to the Lovers of the Holy Cross Sisters to take care of. This afternoon, visit the school, talk with the manager for a thorough understanding of their lives here, meet the children and listen to them singing, playing music. Afterwards transfer to Noir restaurant for a special culinary journey - dining in the dark. The concept is to imitate the experience of having meals like a blind person, which is a unique mind-altering experience. Leave behind the sight and let your other senses lead your mind to feel the taste of food. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: 16:30
- Inclusions: Set menu at Noir restaurant.
- Capacity: Maximum 10 pax due to the limited space of Bung Sang Home.
- Age restrictions: Children from 10 years old onward are allowed to enjoy the dining experience. For younger children, this experience may be a little frightening and informing in advance is highly recommended.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Dress code: Smart casual is highly recommended. Shorts and slippers are fine, however no tank tops and no glowing shoes, clothing or accessories.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Saigon - City Highlights & Lunch at Ambassador's Home
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Saigon
Tour Duration: 5-6 hours
Code: MDSGNSE019
Tour Description:
On arrival to Saigon (Nha Rong port or Hiep Phuoc port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Drive 20 minutes to the city center to admire Saigon’s historic landmarks. Despite the well-documented hustle and bustle, Saigon retains its connections with the past. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris (It is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Saigon. Pay a short visit to Ben Thanh market (if time permits) which is one of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and popular for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, as well as local cuisine. Then drive to the residence of The American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, carried a mission of overthrowing the southern government at that time. When Lodge arrived in Saigon, an old villa in District 3 was converted into the Ambassador’s residence. Mr. Lodge lived in this home between 1960 - 1965 and the architecture is a mix of Vietnamese, French and American. Today it remains a private residence owned by Trails of Indochina and it has been fully restored to its former glory. Meet with the present host for an introduction of the house before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in the historic setting. Then drive back to the port to embark the ship.
Notes:
- Pick up time: TBA. In the morning and is subject to cruise docking time.
- Inclusions: home hosted lunch
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports beside Nha Rong or Hiep Phuoc port.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Feb 28 At Sea
Mar 1 Da Nang
Da Nang is on the threshold of becoming a major destination for tourists from Europe, Australia and the United States, thanks to some unique attractions, spectacular scenery and the friendliness of the locals. The French influence is evident in Da Nang's provincial character which dates back to the 19th century, with later history wrought by war. It was here on the coast that the first U.S. combat troops landed on March 8, 1965. As the war progressed, Da Nang’s runway was expanded to become the largest in all of Southeast Asia. Da Nang fell to the Viet Cong in March 1975; this signified South Vietnam's defeat in the war. Among the city's numerous attractions is the much-touted Cham Museum, housing close to 300 Cham sculptures. Here history lovers get a glimpse into a very powerful era of Vietnam's past. Da Nang, however, may be most familiar to Americans who watched the movie Good Morning Vietnam and the popular television series China Beach - which immortalized a popular R&R GI resort of the Vietnam War.
Excursions
Ancient Town & Home Hosted Meal - Da Nang
— Optional Private Excursions
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Code: MDDADSE005

Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer about 60 minutes to Hoi An, once was a prosperous trading port between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, this World Heritage-listed ancient town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. The narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour. There is plenty to visit including the old merchant’s houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with outstanding wood carvings. Then take a short drive away from the hustle and bustle in downtown to Co Co River, surrounded by peaceful villages, idyllic rivers and lush water coconut palms. A rowed basket boat ride will bring you to the floating stationary bamboo raft. Indulge yourself in a relaxing BBQ meal while enjoying sparkling river with glassy surface under the sunlight (subject to weather condition), cool breeze and immerse water coconut jungles. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Da Nang / Hoi An - Tien Sa Port
— Optional Private Excursions
Tour Duration: Within 4 hours or 8 hours
Tour Description:
Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Note: There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
• Private transfers and transportation on tour
• Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Non-inclusions:
• Vietnam visa
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Other meals where not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Ancient Town & Rustic Meal on River - Da Nang
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Da Nang
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Code: MDDADSE006
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer about 60 minutes to Hoi An, once was a prosperous trading port between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, this World Heritage-listed ancient town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. The narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour. There is plenty to visit including the old merchant’s houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with outstanding wood carvings. Then take a short drive away from the hustle and bustle in downtown to Co Co River, surrounded by peaceful villages, idyllic rivers and lush water coconut palms. A rowed basket boat ride will bring you to the floating stationary bamboo raft. Indulge yourself in a relaxing BBQ meal while enjoying sparkling river with glassy surface under the sunlight (subject to weather condition), cool breeze and immerse water coconut jungles. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Ancient Town & Conservation Projects - Da Nang
— Optional Private Excursions
ANCIENT TOWN & CONSERVATION PROJECTS
Destination: Da Nang
Tour Duration: 4.5 hours
Code: MDDADSE007
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer about 60 minutes to Hoi An, once was a prosperous trading port between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, this World Heritage - listed ancient town boasts well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. Before the walking trip with your guide, chat with a member of Hoi An relics conservation center to get a glimpse of Hoi An culture and the current projects of local Government and UNESCO to this ancient town. The narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour. There is plenty to visit including the old merchant’s houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with outstanding wood carvings. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Buffalo Cart & Fishing Life Tour - Da Nang
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Da Nang
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Code: MDDADSE009
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer about 60 minutes to Hoi An, once was a prosperous trading port between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, discover Hoi An countryside by a fun buffalo cart ride passing by rice paddies and vegetable farms at Cam Thanh village. There are so many photo opportunities here - lush green rice paddies, water buffalos, Vietnamese farmers working the fields, ducks swimming along the canals, etc. Upon arrival at the wharf, board a local river boat and start cruising down Hoi An River. When you reach a good spot, hop off the boat along the shore and try your hand at casting the Vietnamese fishing nets. Casting the nets takes practice, but the fisherman will offer their years of experience and advice. Then step into the unique round basket boats and learn how to paddle them. Later, re-board the larger boat and enjoy light grilled seafood dishes and a refreshing cool drink as you head back up river. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Sanctuary of Champa Kingdom - Da Nang
— Optional Private Excursions
Destination: Da Nang
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Code: MDDADSE010
Tour Description:
On arrival in Danang (Tien Sa port), disembark the ship and meet your guide. Transfer 1.5 hour to My Son was an important religious site and place of worship. The 20 temples are set in a verdant valley surrounded by hills and overlooked by the impressive Cat Tooth Mountain. Stroll around this UNESCO listed temple complex to learn about the Cham culture, architecture and civilization. Later, head back to Danang (Tien Sa port), and embark the ship.
Notes:
- Availability: Morning, Afternoon.
- There is an extra charge for transfer from other ports.
- There are public Champa dance performances from the lost Kingdom at My Son temple @9:30/ 10:00 & 15:00.
Inclusions:
- Private transfer
- Port pick-up and drop-off
- Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
- Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Exclusions:
- Visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
- Other meals where not mention in the program
- Drinks/ waters on meals
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and Gratuities
- Other services not listed
Mar 2 At Sea
Mar 3 Hong Kong
As Asia’s premier gateway to China and Southeast Asia, Hong Kong offers a great travel experience. Visitors will find everything from hiking, horse racing and sailing to internationally renowned art galleries and lively art festivals. Some of the best hotels, dining and shopping in the world are found in this metropolis. Hong Kong is one of the world’s great cities and a delightful realm of natural wonders and serene rural villages. With its wealth of cultural attractions, Hong Kong invites exploration and inspires interest to even the most experienced traveler. Sights include Museum of History – which houses a collection of archaeological finds and historic photographs providing an introduction to Hong Kong’s history. Cultural Center is the city’s newest performing arts venue. The Space Museum’s dome, where Omnimax shows and astronomy exhibits are featured, is nearby. Adjacent is the Museum of Art. Stanley Market is an open-air market for browsing and finding bargains in fashions, leather, porcelain, and linens. Jade Market is a specialty market featuring 450 stalls with jade items.
Excursions
Hong Kong Heritage Tour - 4.5 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Start with a visit to Tsang Tai Uk also known as Shan Ha Wai "Walled Village at the Mountain's Foot", is a Hakka walled village and one of the best-preserved. Shan Ha Wai gained its current name Tsang Tai Uk from locals when it housed displaced families after the Second World War.
- A photo stop will be made at the Lo Wai Walled Village, the first walled village built by the Tang clan. The site was also declared a monument in 1997. Nearby is the Tang's Ancestral Hall, built in the 16th century, for clan rituals & ancestor worship.
- Make a wish at Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree, a big banyan tree that is popular among local villagers who come to burn joss sticks and make wishes under it.
- Next is a visit to a spectacular Tang dynasty-style Buddhist temple the Chi Lin Nunnery. This Buddhist nunnery is stunning with its monastery complex having been renovated as a piece of Tang dynasty architecture. The grand and elegant complex will surely become one of China's great cultural attractions in the years to come.
Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Donation to Tsang Tai Uk
- Bottled Water
- English-speaking guide
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Lamma Island Tour - 8.5 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Tour Duration: 8.5 hours
Tour description:
Upon arrival to Hong Kong (Ocean Terminal or Kai Tak Cruise Terminal), disembark the ship and meet your guide. This full-day guided tour will take you on a hike over the trails of Lamma Island. Discover the culture and traditions that have sprung from this unique fishing community and learn about the island’s rich history from our expert tour guide.
Our hike will follow the winding coastal path along the island and up the hillside for majestic views over the South China Sea and neighboring Cheung Chau and Lantau Island. Lamma Island has been inhabited for over 6,000 years – this route will give you a glimpse into its past, from its abandoned banana plantations, ancestral graves, and old feng shui woods to a World War 2 Kamikaze tunnel and even, a centuries old Tin Hau temple, dedicated to the local goddess of the sea, that remains a place of prayer to this day.
We’ll stop for a fresh seafood lunch by the waterfront of Sok Kwu Wan village, before continuing to the bustling village of Yung Shue Wan. Stroll through the narrow streets of tightly packed local shops and delight in the colorful bohemian community that has gradually become part of Lamma Island’s new culture.
Inclusions:
• Private transfer
• Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Not included:
• Other meals where not mention in the program
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• China visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Hong Kong Highlights Tour with Lunch – 6 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Cross Victoria Harbour, one of Hong Kong’s greatest assets, a jewel that people marvel at no matter how many times they visit the city using the famous Star Ferry
- Enjoy a ride on the World's steepest funicular railway, the Peak Tram!
- Take a sampan ride into the typhoon shelter for a close-up view of waterborne life.
- Feast on a traditional Dim Sum Lunch
- Visit Stanley, a popular market town on the sunny south side of Hong Kong Island
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- One way Star ferry ticket
- One way peak tram ticket
- 15-minute Sampan ride
- Chinese Dim Sum lunch with Chinese Tea
- Bottled Water
- English-speaking guide
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Treasures of Kowloon (private tour) - 4 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
-
Visit a Qing Dynasty fort – The Kowloon Walled City Park
-
Visit one of Hong Kong’s most popular temples, Wong Tai Sin, which specializes in fortune-telling.
-
Explore the Tang dynasty-style Buddhist temple, the Chi Lin Nunnery. This Buddhist nunnery is stunning with its monastery complex
Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private vehicle on hire
- English speaking guide
- 1 x bottled water per person
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal
- Minimum 2 persons required for the tour
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc.
- Personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Macau Excursion – 8 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit the famous A-Ma Temple. It is located on the south-western tip of the Macao peninsula overlooking Barra Square and the seashore.
- Explore the historic heart of Macau including St. Paul's Ruins and Senado Square.
- Summit the Macau Tower, where you can gaze out over Taipa and Coloane, look for Macau's landmarks and historical sites or try to spot Hong Kong's outlying islands.
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Round trip TurboJet Economy ferry ticket from Macau to Hong Kong and Macau to Hong Kong
- Entrance to Macau Tower
- Bottled Water
- English speaking guide
- Round trip private transfers in Macau
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal in Hong Kong
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Hong Kong - Full Day Macau Tour by jetfoil (10 Hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Statue of Kum Iam, dedicated to Kum Iam, the Goddess of Mercy. It is 20 meters tall and made of bronze. The construction cost was MOP 30 million.
- Visit Macau Tower, 338 meters high and ranked the 11th highest in the world.
- Continue to Temple of A-Ma, was built 400 years ago in homage to a girl who saved seamen's lives. Macau was later named by the Portuguese settlers in mid-16th Century.
- Ruins of Sao Paulo - An imposing facade is all that is left of a church built by Italian and Japanese Jesuit priests in 1602.
- A short visit in one of the famous casinos
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Local English Speaking Guide
- Ground transportation Seat-In-Coach
- Lunch
- 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person
- Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary.
- Personal Expenses, Tipping
Hong Kong Island Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Hong Kong Island
Highlights
- Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market
- Man Mo Temple
- Peak Tram ride (share-basis)
- Sampan ride at Aberdeen Fishing Village
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Kowloon Market Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Markets in Kowloon
Highlights
- Flower Market
- Fish Market (where can try some local food, e.g. signature milk tea, egg tart, pineapple bun on client's own account)
- Jade Market
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: New Territories Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to the New Territories in Hong Kong
(Not operated on Tuesdays)
Highlights
- Sam Tung Uk Hakka Walled Village Museum
- Tai Fu Tai Ancestral Family Clan House
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Lantau Island Tour (5 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Lantau Island in Hong Kong
Highlights
- Ngong Ping Cable Car ride (share-basis)
- Ngong Ping Village - "Walking with Buddha"
- Po Lin Monastery
- Giant Buddha
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Disposal Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Commerce a vehicle/driver/guide at disposal for 4 consecutive hours
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals and entrance fee
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong Island Tour (8 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Full day tour on Hong Kong Island
Highlights
- Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market
- Man Mo Temple
- Peak Tram ride (share-basis)
- Sampan ride at Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter
- Dim Sum lunch reservation (on client's own account)
- Repulse Bay
- Stanley Market
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water and entrance fee during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Disposal Tour (8 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Commence a vehicle / driver / guide at disposal for 8 consecutive hours
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals and entrance fee
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Mar 4 Hong Kong
As Asia’s premier gateway to China and Southeast Asia, Hong Kong offers a great travel experience. Visitors will find everything from hiking, horse racing and sailing to internationally renowned art galleries and lively art festivals. Some of the best hotels, dining and shopping in the world are found in this metropolis. Hong Kong is one of the world’s great cities and a delightful realm of natural wonders and serene rural villages. With its wealth of cultural attractions, Hong Kong invites exploration and inspires interest to even the most experienced traveler. Sights include Museum of History – which houses a collection of archaeological finds and historic photographs providing an introduction to Hong Kong’s history. Cultural Center is the city’s newest performing arts venue. The Space Museum’s dome, where Omnimax shows and astronomy exhibits are featured, is nearby. Adjacent is the Museum of Art. Stanley Market is an open-air market for browsing and finding bargains in fashions, leather, porcelain, and linens. Jade Market is a specialty market featuring 450 stalls with jade items.
Excursions
Hong Kong Heritage Tour - 4.5 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Start with a visit to Tsang Tai Uk also known as Shan Ha Wai "Walled Village at the Mountain's Foot", is a Hakka walled village and one of the best-preserved. Shan Ha Wai gained its current name Tsang Tai Uk from locals when it housed displaced families after the Second World War.
- A photo stop will be made at the Lo Wai Walled Village, the first walled village built by the Tang clan. The site was also declared a monument in 1997. Nearby is the Tang's Ancestral Hall, built in the 16th century, for clan rituals & ancestor worship.
- Make a wish at Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree, a big banyan tree that is popular among local villagers who come to burn joss sticks and make wishes under it.
- Next is a visit to a spectacular Tang dynasty-style Buddhist temple the Chi Lin Nunnery. This Buddhist nunnery is stunning with its monastery complex having been renovated as a piece of Tang dynasty architecture. The grand and elegant complex will surely become one of China's great cultural attractions in the years to come.
Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Donation to Tsang Tai Uk
- Bottled Water
- English-speaking guide
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Lamma Island Tour - 8.5 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Tour Duration: 8.5 hours
Tour description:
Upon arrival to Hong Kong (Ocean Terminal or Kai Tak Cruise Terminal), disembark the ship and meet your guide. This full-day guided tour will take you on a hike over the trails of Lamma Island. Discover the culture and traditions that have sprung from this unique fishing community and learn about the island’s rich history from our expert tour guide.
Our hike will follow the winding coastal path along the island and up the hillside for majestic views over the South China Sea and neighboring Cheung Chau and Lantau Island. Lamma Island has been inhabited for over 6,000 years – this route will give you a glimpse into its past, from its abandoned banana plantations, ancestral graves, and old feng shui woods to a World War 2 Kamikaze tunnel and even, a centuries old Tin Hau temple, dedicated to the local goddess of the sea, that remains a place of prayer to this day.
We’ll stop for a fresh seafood lunch by the waterfront of Sok Kwu Wan village, before continuing to the bustling village of Yung Shue Wan. Stroll through the narrow streets of tightly packed local shops and delight in the colorful bohemian community that has gradually become part of Lamma Island’s new culture.
Inclusions:
• Private transfer
• Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days
Not included:
• Other meals where not mention in the program
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• China visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
Hong Kong Highlights Tour with Lunch – 6 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Cross Victoria Harbour, one of Hong Kong’s greatest assets, a jewel that people marvel at no matter how many times they visit the city using the famous Star Ferry
- Enjoy a ride on the World's steepest funicular railway, the Peak Tram!
- Take a sampan ride into the typhoon shelter for a close-up view of waterborne life.
- Feast on a traditional Dim Sum Lunch
- Visit Stanley, a popular market town on the sunny south side of Hong Kong Island
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- One way Star ferry ticket
- One way peak tram ticket
- 15-minute Sampan ride
- Chinese Dim Sum lunch with Chinese Tea
- Bottled Water
- English-speaking guide
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Treasures of Kowloon (private tour) - 4 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
-
Visit a Qing Dynasty fort – The Kowloon Walled City Park
-
Visit one of Hong Kong’s most popular temples, Wong Tai Sin, which specializes in fortune-telling.
-
Explore the Tang dynasty-style Buddhist temple, the Chi Lin Nunnery. This Buddhist nunnery is stunning with its monastery complex
Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private vehicle on hire
- English speaking guide
- 1 x bottled water per person
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal
- Minimum 2 persons required for the tour
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc.
- Personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Macau Excursion – 8 hours - Hong Kong
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit the famous A-Ma Temple. It is located on the south-western tip of the Macao peninsula overlooking Barra Square and the seashore.
- Explore the historic heart of Macau including St. Paul's Ruins and Senado Square.
- Summit the Macau Tower, where you can gaze out over Taipa and Coloane, look for Macau's landmarks and historical sites or try to spot Hong Kong's outlying islands.
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Round trip TurboJet Economy ferry ticket from Macau to Hong Kong and Macau to Hong Kong
- Entrance to Macau Tower
- Bottled Water
- English speaking guide
- Round trip private transfers in Macau
- Round-trip private transfers from Cruise Terminal in Hong Kong
- Meals other than specified as included
- Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurant, etc
- Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
Hong Kong - Full Day Macau Tour by jetfoil (10 Hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
- Visit Statue of Kum Iam, dedicated to Kum Iam, the Goddess of Mercy. It is 20 meters tall and made of bronze. The construction cost was MOP 30 million.
- Visit Macau Tower, 338 meters high and ranked the 11th highest in the world.
- Continue to Temple of A-Ma, was built 400 years ago in homage to a girl who saved seamen's lives. Macau was later named by the Portuguese settlers in mid-16th Century.
- Ruins of Sao Paulo - An imposing facade is all that is left of a church built by Italian and Japanese Jesuit priests in 1602.
- A short visit in one of the famous casinos
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Local English Speaking Guide
- Ground transportation Seat-In-Coach
- Lunch
- 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person
- Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary.
- Personal Expenses, Tipping
Hong Kong Island Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Hong Kong Island
Highlights
- Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market
- Man Mo Temple
- Peak Tram ride (share-basis)
- Sampan ride at Aberdeen Fishing Village
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Kowloon Market Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Markets in Kowloon
Highlights
- Flower Market
- Fish Market (where can try some local food, e.g. signature milk tea, egg tart, pineapple bun on client's own account)
- Jade Market
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: New Territories Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to the New Territories in Hong Kong
(Not operated on Tuesdays)
Highlights
- Sam Tung Uk Hakka Walled Village Museum
- Tai Fu Tai Ancestral Family Clan House
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Lantau Island Tour (5 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Half day tour to Lantau Island in Hong Kong
Highlights
- Ngong Ping Cable Car ride (share-basis)
- Ngong Ping Village - "Walking with Buddha"
- Po Lin Monastery
- Giant Buddha
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Disposal Tour (4 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Commerce a vehicle/driver/guide at disposal for 4 consecutive hours
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals and entrance fee
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong Island Tour (8 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Full day tour on Hong Kong Island
Highlights
- Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market
- Man Mo Temple
- Peak Tram ride (share-basis)
- Sampan ride at Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter
- Dim Sum lunch reservation (on client's own account)
- Repulse Bay
- Stanley Market
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water and entrance fee during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Hong Kong: Disposal Tour (8 hours)
— Optional Private Excursions
Commence a vehicle / driver / guide at disposal for 8 consecutive hours
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz S-350) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
- Local bottled water during sightseeing
- Gratuity to the guide & driver
- Service voucher
Not Included:
- Any cruise arrangements
- Any meals and entrance fee
- Travel insurance
- Any visa
Mar 5 At Sea
Mar 6 Taipei (Keelung)
Keelung is situated along East China Sea on Taiwan's northeast tip and has been an important Taiwanese seaport. It is gateway to the island's most magnificent coastal scenery and a convenient location to begin a journey overland to Taipei.
Mar 7 Hirara
Mar 8 Okinawa (Naha)
Naha is the port for Okinawa Island lying southwest of the main Japanese islands. Landmarks in the city include the Commodore Perry Memorial, the 16th-century Sogen-ji Ishimon Gates and Tsuboya pottery quarter. Explore Shuri the 500 year old former capital that contains various shrines, temples and ceremonial gates including the famous Shurei Gate. The island, tropical and encircled by coral reefs, also houses Japan's largest sub tropical park (Okinawa Memorial Park) that includes an Aquarium, Museum and amusement park. It is also possible to visit the Okinawa Battle Sites and a number of war memorials recording the American victory in 1945.
Mar 9 At Sea
Mar 10 Kochi
Kochi has beautiful lagoons and lakes and offers travelers an extraordinary setting for a stay of a few nights.
Excursions
Kochi, Shore Excursion - 8 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Meet at the port of Kochi -KERALA
(Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)
KOCHI: 8HRS
Disembark from the ship and meet your personal guide on the pier.
You will drive to the historic Fort Kochi area where you walk in the area known as “Jew Town”.
You will visit the Mattancherry Palace, which was commissioned by the Portuguese for the Raja of Kochi in exchange for trading rights. The palace is two storeys’s high and is built in the traditional Kerala style known as “nalukattu” (four buildings around a central courtyard). Made of wood and richly carved, the palace exhibits memorabilia from the Raja of Kochi’s collection, but it is best known for its outstanding murals painted on the walls. Fast fading, one can still see some of these excellent 16th century paintings illustrating episodes from the great Indian epic – The Ramayana.
Surrounding the Synagogue are a jumble of antique and spice shops, and souvenir shop and it is a fun area to wander at leisure.
You will have time to explore the Heritage Zone, which with its varied architectural styles highlights Cochin’s history of being occupied by various foreign rulers. In this area, which is protected, is St Francis’ Church, first established by the Portuguese in the 1500s. This is one of the earliest European churches in the country. The simple façade served as the prototype for future churches here. Vasco Da Gama was buried here in 1524 before his body was taken to Portugal 14 years later. You will also visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral which was built in the late 19th century and has impressive murals on its ceiling. The walking tour ends at the Chinese Fishing Nets, which were first erected between 1350 and 1450 indicating trading ties with China.
You will stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon you drive to the Folklore Museum. This Museum has an exceptional collection of private artifacts from all over the South and interestingly has a theatre attached as an added attraction. The collection includes masks, beautifully carved old wooden doors, musical instruments, lamps and tribal jewelry. You will also have the opportunity to watch a private performance of the classical Kathakali dance.
Early evening you will return to the ship.
Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee,Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified) Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted seperately.
*Terms and conditions apply
Kochi, Shore Excursion - 4 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)
Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will head to the historic town of Mattancherry. The Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to the Raja of Kochi in exchange for trading rights. The palace is two stories high and is built in the traditional Kerala style of “nalukattu” (four buildings around a central courtyard). Made of richly-carved wood, there are beautiful murals on display here depicting scenes from the Hindu epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata and some of the Hindu legends. The Palace also houses Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal Palanquins, coronation robes of former Maharajas of Kochi as well as period furniture.
You will next visit the Jewish Synagogue. One of the oldest in India, it is set in the Jewish Quarter, commonly known as “Jew Town”. The area is famous for its aromatic spice market and its antique shops. The interior of the Synagogue is decorated with 18th century blue ceramic Cantonese tiles, hand painted and each one different!
You will end your tour at the Chinese Fishing Nets, which were first erected between 1350 and 1450 AD indicating trading ties with China.
You will stop for lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the port to board your ship.
Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee, Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified), Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted separately.
* Terms and conditions apply
HALF DAY EXPLORING OLD KOCHI
— Optional Private Excursions
HALF DAY
EXPLORING OLD COCHIN
Leave from pier for a panoramic drive along Mahatma Gandhi Road ending with a stop at the local market, known as the Broadway. A walk through, this local market in the new town of Ernakulum, is an enriching experience. A surprise lurks at every corner and whether you like it or not, you are propelled forward in a sea of people, brightly coloured baubles and warm, comforting smells.
Photo stop at Shiva Temple.
St. George's Forane Church, locally known as Edapally Church is a Catholic pilgrimage church in Edapally Kochi, India. Asia's largest shrine to Saint George, about five million people visit it every year.
The church is thought to have been founded in 593 AD. It is regarded as one of the oldest churches in Kerala, after the seven churches founded by Thomas the Apostle in the first century AD. The church was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Marth Mariam). In 1080, a new church was built adjacent to the old church. A nine-day festival is celebrated annually as part of the Feast of Saint George. The church, also a destination for non-Christians, attracts offerings of gold, chicken, and eggs.
Gaze at the ancient Chinese fishing nets that line the shores of Fort Cochin.
You’ll be fascinated by the Dhobi Khana, your next stop. Each morning washing from all over Kochi is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten, and thrashed. Stop here for photos that you’ll never be able to duplicate anywhere else.
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00h00 – 00h30 | Depart the pier for panoramic tour of Ernakulum | This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 00h30 – 00h55 | Photo Stop at Shiva Temple | 10 meters / Flat | |
| 00h55 – 02h10 | Drive through Marine drive and stop for a walk through the Broadway Market | 300 meters / Flat | |
| 02h10 – 02h30 | Depart for Edappally Church | ||
| 02h30 – 03h10 | Visit Edappally Church | 50 meters / Flat / 02 steps | |
| 03h10 – 04h20 | Proceed to Chinese fishing net and visit | ||
| 04h20 – 05h30 | Later drive to Drive to Dhobi Khana and visit. Back to port |
HALF DAY HERITAGE TRAIL - A WALK THROUGH KOCHI
— Optional Private Excursions
HALF DAY
HERITAGE TRAIL - A WALK THROUGH COCHIN
The best way to discover a new place is on foot; explore the streets of historic Fort Cochin and learn more about this town that is brimming with tales of maritime traders, who made Cochin the first European township in India.
A brief stop will be made at the Chinese fishing nets & St. Francis Church one of the area’s famous landmarks. These nets are set up on bamboo poles and held horizontally by huge mechanisms, which lower them into the sea. This is a unique symbol of the centuries-old influence on this coastline.
Princess Street is one of the oldest streets in Fort Kochi. The bungalows built in the European style and the other buildings of colonial architecture lining both sides of the street make it pretty as a picture.
The buildings here, with bronze stucco walls and peeling plaster, house antique stores, cigar shops, provisional stores, curio shops, kiosks, cafes, restaurants, art galleries and so on. Some are being used as homestays for tourists.
For the best view of the street, head for the Loafer’s Corner, a popular meeting place at the confluence of Princess Street, Peter Celli Street and Bastion Street.
The plain, squat walls that surround the two-storey Mattancherry or “Dutch Palace”, do not offer a particularly appealing invitation, but you will be delighted once inside. Its wooden interior is decorated with a remarkable series of murals. In the royal bedroom alone are 45 paintings illustrating the Ramayana every inch of space covered with rich colour, and painstaking detail. There is also an interesting collection of Dutch maps of old Kochi, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, royal palanquins, weapons and furniture.
Next. The Jew Town surrounding area called Jew Town is a fascinating mix of antique shops, warehouses, and spice auction rooms. Signs for N.X. Jacob’s tailor shop, and the offices of J.E. Cohen serve as reminders of a once thriving community now consisting of about seven families. You’ll have a chance to stroll here before returning to your ship.
Return back to pier
| TIMING | ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST | TERRAIN | W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00h00 – 00h30 | Depart the pier to Fort Cochin | This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues | |
| 00h30 – 02h00 | Visit Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church |
695 meters / Flat/4 | |
| 02h00 – 02h30 | Walk through princess street and loafer’s corner | 300 meters / Uneven | |
| 02h30 – 03h00 | Drive to Mattancherry | ||
| 03h00 – 03h30 | Visit Dutch Palace | 200 meter/20 steps | |
| 03h30 – 04h00 | Leisure time in Jew town | ||
| 04h00 – 04h30 | Return back to pier | 50 meters / Flat |
Mar 11 Kyoto (Kobe)
Kobe, located in Japan, is capital of Hyogo Prefecture, southwestern Honshu Island, on Osaka Bay, near the city of Osaka. Since the 1890s several adjoining cities, including Hyogo, have been absorbed by Kobe. Behind the narrow coastal site of the city are mountains on which suburban residences and hotels have been built. Many Christian churches, Shinto and Buddhist temples and shrines, two famous statues of Buddha, a fine arts museum, and a municipal museum with a collection on Western cultural contact are in Kobe. From here you can also visit Kyoto, Nara and Sorakuen Garden.
Mar 12 Kyoto (Kobe)
Kobe, located in Japan, is capital of Hyogo Prefecture, southwestern Honshu Island, on Osaka Bay, near the city of Osaka. Since the 1890s several adjoining cities, including Hyogo, have been absorbed by Kobe. Behind the narrow coastal site of the city are mountains on which suburban residences and hotels have been built. Many Christian churches, Shinto and Buddhist temples and shrines, two famous statues of Buddha, a fine arts museum, and a municipal museum with a collection on Western cultural contact are in Kobe. From here you can also visit Kyoto, Nara and Sorakuen Garden.
Mar 13 Hiroshima
Hiroshima in southwestern Honshu has grown rapidly as a commercial city, and after 1868 it was developed as a military base. Every August 6 since 1947, thousands participate in multidenominational services in the Peace Memorial Park built on the site where the bomb exploded. After the war the city was largely rebuilt, and commercial activity gradually resumed. Visit the Peace Park but also explore Miyajima Island and its colourful shrines and mysterious forests.
Mar 14 Beppu
Beppu is one of Japan's most famous and most touristy hot spring resorts. It is a good place to try out different types of hot springs including sand baths. In addition, there are a few spectacular hot springs, called the "Hells of Beppu", which are for viewing rather than bathing.
Mar 15 Kitakyushu
Mar 16 Sasebo
Mar 17 Pusan (Busan)
Korea's "museum without walls" is akin only to China in its depth and cultural wonder. From Pusan, you can journey to the ancient Silla capital of Kyongju, a dynasty which reigned in Korea for almost a thousand years. Today this small provincial town is virtually a museum without walls, dotted with many splendid ruins. Nearby, the forested mountains and valleys shelter hundreds of beautiful Buddhist shrines including the renowned Sokkuram Grotto, and Tongdosa and Pulguksa Temples. Pusan is also a shopper's mecca and Korea's vital southern link to Japanese and American trade.
Mar 18 Sakaiminato
Sakaiminato is a city in Tottori Prefecture, Japan. Sakaiminato is well-known for being one of the biggest fishing towns in Japan, it specializes in fresh sea food and tourists love to try out their famous and delicious king crab. The city has a multitude of tourist attractions which include visiting museums, a famous wooden lighthouse, or you can simply enjoying an ocean view picnic at the beautiful Sakai Dabai Park
Mar 19 Kanazawa
Kanazawa's importance grew in the 15th century, when the powerful and militant Ikko sect established its new headquarters there after being chased out of Kyoto by the monks of Mt.Hiei. During the Edo Period, Kanazawa was the seat of the Maeda clan, the second most powerful clan after the Tokugawa in terms of rice production and fief size. Accordingly, Kanazawa grew to become a town of great cultural achievements, rivaling Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). In World War Two, Kanazawa was Japan's second largest city (after Kyoto) to escape destruction by air raids. Consequently, parts of the old castle town, such as samurai, temple and pleasure districts, have survived in pretty good condition. Kanazawa is capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, a prefecture along the Sea of Japan.
Mar 20 Niigata
Niigata has a long history as a port and is distinguished for being the site of one of only five international ports opened in 1868 when Japan resumed contact with other countries after nearly 250 years of self-imposed isolation. Since that time, Niigata has developed into one of Japan's most important modern international ports. Geographically, the city is distinctive in that it is surrounded by water. The Shinano and Agano, two of the largest rivers in Japan, run through the heart of Niigata before emptying into the Japan Sea. In addition, until relatively recently, the city was crisscrossed by a series of canals used to transport goods. Although the canals have been filled in to make the construction of modern roadways possible, the willows that lined these canals still remain today and now serve to lend a gentle air to the bustling downtown area. Although Niigata has grown into an important regional center of activity, the city has pursued a plan of careful development in order to preserve its traditional culture, natural environment, and distinctive local character. When Niigata is mentioned, many people often think immediately of the area's delicious rice and sake or the city's beautiful sunsets, but the residents of Niigata themselves take pride, rather, in the spirit of hospitality and community that so distinguishes the city. Following this tradition, the city's long held goal has been to create a society where every citizen is valued and allowed to shine. Numerous cultural and civic facilities support the activities of local groups and organizations. In addition, Niigata's conscientious system of social welfare seeks to preserve the dignity as well as the well-being of all of the city's residents. The city is constantly trying to tackle society's problems in progressive, innovative and caring ways.
Mar 21 Akita
Akita is a prefecture in the north of Japan's main island known for it's natural beauty and old world charm.
From November to March it's a winter wonderland with deep drifts, icicle sheets hanging off every roof and superb skiing and snowboarding. Winter festivals celebrate ancient traditions like the building of snow shrines, or kamakura, complete with offerings of sake and fruit.
In Spring, Akita has beautiful cherry blossom in bloom. In summer its lakes, rivers and coast offer excellent sailing. Lake Tazawa has many hot springs resorts. The largest surviving primeval beech forest in the world spans the border with Aomori prefecture.
Mar 22 Aomori
A city for all seasons, Aomori attracts visitors from afar for its beauty and events. In the spring, Hirosaki Castle Park is one of Japan’s most famous sites for viewing the cherry blossoms. The Nebuta Festival is held in the summer time and is one of the largest and most colorful summer events in Japan. Lake Towada is famous for the changing of her leaves in the autumn, and the winter months bring glorious snow for skiing, skating and snowboarding. Aomori is also home to the largest outdoor Buddha’s in Japan – weighing over 220 tons.
Mar 23 At Sea
Mar 24 Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan, presents a different view at every turn. It's one of the world's main economic centers and its most populous agglomeration. The business of Tokyo is business, but you can still find harmony and small-scale gardens on back streets. Around the corner from neon and concrete, you may find the bonsai-lined courtyard of a traditional inn.
Tokyo was nearly destroyed by bombs and fires during World War II, and by earthquakes at other times, but it has always rebuilt itself. As a result, there is little left of Old Japan in the city, but there's plenty of New Japan to take its place.
The streets are a confusing maze, so a map is essential. The transit system is excellent, however, and there are kobans (police boxes) throughout the metropolis, as well as a populace generally willing to answer questions.
Visitors to Tokyo represent both business and leisure travelers. And despite its past reputation, Tokyo is no longer fearsomely expensive. It's relatively easy to visit Tokyo on a budget.
Excursions
Wheeling Your Way Through Tokyo - 6 Hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Forget the bus, get out of the car, and by no means take the subway – experience Tokyo by bicycle a seemingly unusual way to explore one of the world’s largest megalopolises. But once on your bike and pedaling through the city’s many and varied neighborhoods you will experience Tokyo in a truly unique way.
You will transfer to Chuo-ku, Tokyo where you choose your bicycle and try it out before setting off. Once ready and under the supervision of your cycling guide set off for the Tour de Tokyo pedaling your way through some of the distinctive districts that make Tokyo so memorable:–
↓
Tsukishima (traditional market area famed for its monjayaki savoury pancake) and Tsukiji Outer Market the largest seafood market in the world.
↓
Ginza (Tokyo’s chic shopping district – the city’s “Fifth Avenue”)
↓
Shinbashi Station (Japan’s oldest railway station)
↓
Azabu Juban Village (eclectic, eccentric and exciting – where trendy meets traditional)
↓
Roppongi, Aoyama and Harajuku & Omotesando (iconic architecture and fashion forward for today’s Tokyo)
↓
Yoyogi Park (site of the 1964 Olympic Village – weather permitting enjoy a picnic lunch)
↓
The New National Stadium (site of the 2020 Opening Ceremonies)
↓
Meiji Jingu Shrine (Tokyo’s revered Shinto Shrine set within a verdant forest park)
↓
Yoyogi National Stadium (Tange Kenzo’s stunning design for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games)
↓
Jingu Gaien Mall (the beautiful Gingko lined Avenue)
↓
Akasaka Palace (the magnificent State Guest House)
↓
Parliament House (the site of the National Diet)
↓
Imperial Palace Grounds (The Iconic Nijubashi Bridge and the moat)
↓
Tokyo Station + KITTE (Marunouchi Minami Exit side)
↓
15:00: Arrive at Chuo-ku, Tokyo – the end of this Tokyo tour
Mar 25 Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan, presents a different view at every turn. It's one of the world's main economic centers and its most populous agglomeration. The business of Tokyo is business, but you can still find harmony and small-scale gardens on back streets. Around the corner from neon and concrete, you may find the bonsai-lined courtyard of a traditional inn.
Tokyo was nearly destroyed by bombs and fires during World War II, and by earthquakes at other times, but it has always rebuilt itself. As a result, there is little left of Old Japan in the city, but there's plenty of New Japan to take its place.
The streets are a confusing maze, so a map is essential. The transit system is excellent, however, and there are kobans (police boxes) throughout the metropolis, as well as a populace generally willing to answer questions.
Visitors to Tokyo represent both business and leisure travelers. And despite its past reputation, Tokyo is no longer fearsomely expensive. It's relatively easy to visit Tokyo on a budget.
Excursions
Wheeling Your Way Through Tokyo - 6 Hours
— Optional Private Excursions
Forget the bus, get out of the car, and by no means take the subway – experience Tokyo by bicycle a seemingly unusual way to explore one of the world’s largest megalopolises. But once on your bike and pedaling through the city’s many and varied neighborhoods you will experience Tokyo in a truly unique way.
You will transfer to Chuo-ku, Tokyo where you choose your bicycle and try it out before setting off. Once ready and under the supervision of your cycling guide set off for the Tour de Tokyo pedaling your way through some of the distinctive districts that make Tokyo so memorable:–
↓
Tsukishima (traditional market area famed for its monjayaki savoury pancake) and Tsukiji Outer Market the largest seafood market in the world.
↓
Ginza (Tokyo’s chic shopping district – the city’s “Fifth Avenue”)
↓
Shinbashi Station (Japan’s oldest railway station)
↓
Azabu Juban Village (eclectic, eccentric and exciting – where trendy meets traditional)
↓
Roppongi, Aoyama and Harajuku & Omotesando (iconic architecture and fashion forward for today’s Tokyo)
↓
Yoyogi Park (site of the 1964 Olympic Village – weather permitting enjoy a picnic lunch)
↓
The New National Stadium (site of the 2020 Opening Ceremonies)
↓
Meiji Jingu Shrine (Tokyo’s revered Shinto Shrine set within a verdant forest park)
↓
Yoyogi National Stadium (Tange Kenzo’s stunning design for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games)
↓
Jingu Gaien Mall (the beautiful Gingko lined Avenue)
↓
Akasaka Palace (the magnificent State Guest House)
↓
Parliament House (the site of the National Diet)
↓
Imperial Palace Grounds (The Iconic Nijubashi Bridge and the moat)
↓
Tokyo Station + KITTE (Marunouchi Minami Exit side)
↓
15:00: Arrive at Chuo-ku, Tokyo – the end of this Tokyo tour
Cabin Categories
Interior Guarantee
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Club Interior Stateroom
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With the polished style and stellar service of a Club Interior Stateroom, you'll enjoy the plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- 40” flat-screen television
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Interior Stateroom
Call for pricing
With the polished style and stellar service of a Club Interior Stateroom, you'll enjoy the plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- 40” flat-screen television
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Interior Stateroom
Call for pricing
With the polished style and stellar service of a Club Interior Stateroom, you'll enjoy the plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- 40” flat-screen television
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Interior Stateroom
Call for pricing
With the polished style and stellar service of a Club Interior Stateroom, you'll enjoy the plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- 40” flat-screen television
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Oceanview Guarantee
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Club Oceanview Stateroom (Obstructed view)
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A vacation home with an ocean view, the Club Oceanview Staterooms offer all the style and amenities of a boutique hotel. Relax with plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Some staterooms feature sofa bed
- 40” flat-screen TV
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Oceanview Stateroom
Call for pricing
A vacation home with an ocean view, the Club Oceanview Staterooms offer all the style and amenities of a boutique hotel. Relax with plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Some staterooms feature sofa bed
- 40” flat-screen TV
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Oceanview Stateroom
From $15,029 per person
A vacation home with an ocean view, the Club Oceanview Staterooms offer all the style and amenities of a boutique hotel. Relax with plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Some staterooms feature sofa bed
- 40” flat-screen TV
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Oceanview Stateroom
Call for pricing
A vacation home with an ocean view, the Club Oceanview Staterooms offer all the style and amenities of a boutique hotel. Relax with plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Some staterooms feature sofa bed
- 40” flat-screen TV
- Refrigerator with mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Veranda Guarantee
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Veranda Plus Guarantee
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Club Veranda Stateroom
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Refreshing sea breezes and stunning destination views come standard in the staterooms that offer your own private veranda. Greet the day with room service on your balcony, or toast to another stunning sunset.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Seating area with 40” flat-screen TV
- Refrigerator with Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Veranda Stateroom
Call for pricing
Refreshing sea breezes and stunning destination views come standard in the staterooms that offer your own private veranda. Greet the day with room service on your balcony, or toast to another stunning sunset.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Seating area with 40” flat-screen TV
- Refrigerator with Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Veranda Stateroom
Call for pricing
Refreshing sea breezes and stunning destination views come standard in the staterooms that offer your own private veranda. Greet the day with room service on your balcony, or toast to another stunning sunset.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Seating area with 40” flat-screen TV
- Refrigerator with Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom
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With the Club Veranda Plus Staterooms, enjoy spectacular ocean and destination views, plus a host of guest-favorite amenities-all at a great value. Everything you love about the Club Veranda Staterooms is included, plus extra perks and amenities to elevate your time on board.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Seating area with 40” flat-screen TV
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom
Call for pricing
With the Club Veranda Plus Staterooms, enjoy spectacular ocean and destination views, plus a host of guest-favorite amenities-all at a great value. Everything you love about the Club Veranda Staterooms is included, plus extra perks and amenities to elevate your time on board.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Seating area with 40” flat-screen TV
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom
Call for pricing
With the Club Veranda Plus Staterooms, enjoy spectacular ocean and destination views, plus a host of guest-favorite amenities-all at a great value. Everything you love about the Club Veranda Staterooms is included, plus extra perks and amenities to elevate your time on board.
- Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed
- Seating area with 40” flat-screen TV
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hairdryer
- USB ports under bedside reading lamps
Suite Guarantee
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Club Continent Suite
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The spacious and comfortable Club Continent Suites feature fresh new décor inspired by natural elements. With two beds convertible to a queen, a cozy sitting area, breezy balcony and refreshed bathroom with a bathtub or shower, this is your wonderful, refined home away from home.
- Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom
- Master bedroom with one queen size bed and a 55” flat-screen television
- 55” flat-screen television in living room
- Marble master bathroom with shower with tub
- Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space
- Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hair dryer
Club Continent Suite
Call for pricing
The spacious and comfortable Club Continent Suites feature fresh new décor inspired by natural elements. With two beds convertible to a queen, a cozy sitting area, breezy balcony and refreshed bathroom with a bathtub or shower, this is your wonderful, refined home away from home.
- Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom
- Master bedroom with one queen size bed and a 55” flat-screen television
- 55” flat-screen television in living room
- Marble master bathroom with shower with tub
- Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space
- Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hair dryer
Club Spa Suite
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Located next to the tranquil Sanctum Spa, newest suites are the ultimate in contemporary design, comfort and pampering. With easy access to the Spa, open decks, swimming pool and the great restaurants, the Club Spa Suites surround you with organic, elegant décor, and the finest, most soothing amenities.
- Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed
- Spacious glass-enclosed bathtub
- Separate rain shower
- Comfortable sitting area
- 55” flat-screen television in sitting area
- Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
- Veranda
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hair dryer
Club Ocean Suite
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With a large living room and a separate bedroom—plus your own private veranda—your Club Ocean Suite offers a restful retreat after your immersive experiences on land. Enjoy elegant, contemporary décor, and rich marble touches. You'll be spoiled by the attention to detail in these beautiful suites, and of course, all the pampering too.
- Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom
- Master bedroom with one queen size bed with a 55” flat-screen television
- 55” flat-screen television in living room
- Marble master bathroom with shower with a tub
- Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space
- Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hair dryer
Club World Owners Suite
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The largest suites, the Club World Owner Suites, have been transformed with contemporary design elements that are both elegant and organic, with design that draws inspiration from nature—a sandy cliff flowing river beds, exquisite white sand beaches, and rustling grasses. Enjoy a spacious living room, separate bedroom and all the amenities that come with the most luxurious suite.
- Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom
- Master bedroom with one queen size bed and a 40” flat-screen television
- 55” flat-screen television in living room
- Marble master bathroom with shower. Journey and Quest suites feature a tub.
- Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space
- Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom
- Mini-bar
- Thermostat-controlled air conditioner
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hand-held hair dryer
Terms & Additional Information
Rates are cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy and include Port Charges and Government Taxes and Fees. Optional transfers, and airfare (unless otherwise stated) additional for all guests.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.