Sailings
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Date Date Location Location Arrival Arrival Departure Departure
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Thu, Jan 21, 2021 FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, USA (CHECK IN STARTS AT 1200P) -- 7:00 pmFri, Jan 22, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sat, Jan 23, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Jan 24, 2021 MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 7:00 am 6:00 pmMon, Jan 25, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Jan 26, 2021 PUERTO LIMON, COSTA RICA (Arrive early morning Depart afternoon) 8:00 am 5:00 pmWed, Jan 27, 2021 TRANSIT THE PANAMA CANAL,PANAMA (CR (Arrive early morning Cruise By Depart afternoon) 6:00 am 5:00 pmThu, Jan 28, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Jan 29, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sat, Jan 30, 2021 PUERTO QUETZAL, GUATEMALA (Arrive early morning Depart afternoon) 6:00 am 5:00 pmSun, Jan 31, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Feb 01, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Feb 02, 2021 CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO (Arrive early morning TENDER REQUIRED Depart afternoon) 8:00 am 5:00 pmWed, Feb 03, 2021 AT SEA -- --Thu, Feb 04, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Feb 05, 2021 SAN FRANCISCO, CA, USA (Arrive early morning OVERNIGHT) 6:00 am --Sat, Feb 06, 2021 SAN FRANCISCO, CA, USA (Depart early evening) -- 8:00 pmSun, Feb 07, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Feb 08, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Feb 09, 2021 AT SEA -- --Wed, Feb 10, 2021 AT SEA -- --Thu, Feb 11, 2021 HONOLULU, HI, USA (Arrive early morning OVERNIGHT) 8:00 am --Fri, Feb 12, 2021 HONOLULU, HI, USA (Depart early afternoon) -- 2:00 pmSat, Feb 13, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Feb 14, 2021 CROSS INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE (CRUI (CROSS INT'L DATELINE) 11:30 pm 11:59 pmMon, Feb 15, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Feb 16, 2021 AT SEA -- --Wed, Feb 17, 2021 AT SEA -- --Thu, Feb 18, 2021 APIA, SAMOA (Arrive morning Depart early evening) 9:00 am 6:00 pmFri, Feb 19, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sat, Feb 20, 2021 SUVA, FIJI (Arrive early morning Depart afternoon) 8:00 am 5:00 pmSun, Feb 21, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Feb 22, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Feb 23, 2021 TAURANGA, NEW ZEALAND (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 7:15 am 6:00 pmWed, Feb 24, 2021 AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND (Arrive early morning Depart evening) 7:00 am 9:00 pmThu, Feb 25, 2021 BAY OF ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND (Arrive early morning TENDER REQUIRED Depart early evening) 8:00 am 6:00 pmFri, Feb 26, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sat, Feb 27, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Feb 28, 2021 SYDNEY, NSW, AUSTRALIA (Arrive early morning OVERNIGHT) 6:30 am --Mon, Mar 01, 2021 SYDNEY, NSW, AUSTRALIA (TENDER REQUIRED Depart evening) -- 9:00 pmTue, Mar 02, 2021 AT SEA -- --Wed, Mar 03, 2021 BRISBANE, QLD, AUSTRALIA (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 7:00 am 7:00 pmThu, Mar 04, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Mar 05, 2021 AIRLIE BEACH, QLD, AUSTRALIA (Arrive early morning TENDER REQUIRED Depart early evening) 8:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Mar 06, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Mar 07, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Mar 08, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Mar 09, 2021 DARWIN, NT, AUSTRALIA (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 7:00 am 6:00 pmWed, Mar 10, 2021 AT SEA -- --Thu, Mar 11, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Mar 12, 2021 BALI, INDONESIA (Arrive early morning TENDER REQUIRED Depart early evening) 7:00 am 6:00 pmSat, Mar 13, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Mar 14, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Mar 15, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Mar 16, 2021 PHU MY (TOURS TO HO CHI MINH CITY), (Arrive early morning Depart afternoon) 6:00 am 5:00 pmWed, Mar 17, 2021 NHA TRANG, VIETNAM (Arrive early morning TENDER REQUIRED Depart early evening) 8:00 am 6:00 pmThu, Mar 18, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Mar 19, 2021 HONG KONG, CHINA (Arrive early morning OVERNIGHT) 8:00 am --Sat, Mar 20, 2021 HONG KONG, CHINA (Depart early evening) -- 8:00 pmSun, Mar 21, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Mar 22, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Mar 23, 2021 AT SEA -- --Wed, Mar 24, 2021 SINGAPORE (Arrive early morning OVERNIGHT) 7:00 am --Thu, Mar 25, 2021 SINGAPORE (Depart early evening) -- 7:00 pmFri, Mar 26, 2021 PORT KELANG (TOURS TO KUALA LUMPUR) (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 8:00 am 6:30 pmSat, Mar 27, 2021 PENANG, MALAYSIA (Arrive early morning POSSIBLE TENDER Depart afternoon) 8:00 am 5:00 pmSun, Mar 28, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Mar 29, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Mar 30, 2021 AT SEA -- --Wed, Mar 31, 2021 COLOMBO, SRI LANKA (Arrive early morning Depart evening) 7:00 am 9:00 pmThu, Apr 01, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Apr 02, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sat, Apr 03, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Apr 04, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Apr 05, 2021 PORT LOUIS, MAURITIUS (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 7:00 am 8:00 pmTue, Apr 06, 2021 LE PORT, REUNION (Arrive early morning Depart afternoon) 7:00 am 5:00 pmWed, Apr 07, 2021 AT SEA -- --Thu, Apr 08, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Apr 09, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sat, Apr 10, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Apr 11, 2021 PORT ELIZABETH, SOUTH AFRICA (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 4:00 am 8:00 pmMon, Apr 12, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Apr 13, 2021 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA (Arrive early morning OVERNIGHT) 5:30 am --Wed, Apr 14, 2021 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA (Depart afternoon) -- 5:00 pmThu, Apr 15, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Apr 16, 2021 WALVIS BAY, NAMIBIA (Arrive early morning POSSIBLE TENDER Depart early evening) 6:30 am 6:00 pmSat, Apr 17, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Apr 18, 2021 AT SEA -- --Mon, Apr 19, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Apr 20, 2021 AT SEA -- --Wed, Apr 21, 2021 AT SEA -- --Thu, Apr 22, 2021 AT SEA -- --Fri, Apr 23, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sat, Apr 24, 2021 AT SEA -- --Sun, Apr 25, 2021 GRAN CANARIA, SPAIN (Arrive early morning Depart early evening) 8:00 am 6:00 pmMon, Apr 26, 2021 AT SEA -- --Tue, Apr 27, 2021 AT SEA -- --Wed, Apr 28, 2021 AT SEA -- --Thu, Apr 29, 2021 SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND, UK 6:00 am --
Port
Arrival Port
For over a century and a half, the iconic ships of Cunard have been defining sophisticated ocean travel. They have always been The Most Famous Ocean Liners in the World.
From fabled vessels of the past to her present royal court - Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth - Cunard has carried guests across the great oceans and to the far points of the globe in unparalleled style. The most glamorous names of yesterday and today have made champagne toasts in our salons, waltzed the night away in her grand ballrooms, savoured grand feasts of the finest flavours in elegant dining rooms, restaurants and cafes, and whiled away hours immersed in fascinating conversation on our many decks, bars, lounges and pubs.
We invite you to take your place in the rich heritage of ocean travel, and write your own classic adventure tale. Join us and let us arrange and book your journey on the legendary luxury ocean liners of Cunard.
Queen Victoria: Elegance and luxury perfectly combined.
From 5 May to 4 June, Queen Victoria entered dry dock for a partial refit at the Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo, Sicily. This included an upgraded and increased choice of staterooms, new Britannia Club dining, a broader and more distinct bar offering, a transformed sun deck, and several other new features.
Gin & Fizz
Centrally located bar to savor your favorite Prosecco, cava or Champagne by the glass or bottle. A great range of premium gins, including one crafted exclusively for Cunard. We'll serve your choice exquisitely garnished with one of the many tonics on offer, or as part of an impressive martini range.
Chart Room
An elegant pre-dinner drink is certainly on order as you relax amongst the decor of this nautically themed lounge and bar. Through charts and cartography, the elegant menu navigates destination-specific stories, pairing a selection of classic beverages with light canapes and snacks - including delectable Godiva chocolates.
Midships Lounge
Overlooking the Grand Lobby, the Midship's Lounge is the ideal place to people-watch or enjoy the live music floating up from the decks below. Browse the tempting gin and fizz themed menu, which includes gin served from an old-fashioned spirit tap; to infuse a more distinctive character. The menu brings to life wines, prosecco, cava and champagne alongside premium gin and spirits, which are all blended to create fresh and inspiring cocktails.
Queens Room
The elegant tradition of Afternoon Tea is a Cunard signature not to be missed. White-gloved waiters serve delightful cucumber sandwiches, fresh scones and tea accompanied by the sounds of the orchestra in the magnificent Queens Room ballroom.
Golden Lion
Darts, karaoke, live sports and ale - everything you'd expect of an authentic English pub. There's even a traditional pub lunch served every day, with classic favourites such as fish and chips, curry, and cottage pie. For a hearty Afternoon Tea, enjoy The Lion's Share, accompanied by a flight of beers.
Winter Garden
Located in the heart of deck 9 next to the Lido, the Winter Garden commands some of the best views across the ship and out to sea. Flooded with natural light, the venue is perfect for watching the world go by whilst enjoying a refreshing beverage.The Lido and Pavilion Pool bars
The Lido and Pavilion bars serve Queen Victoria's two main pools, which means that you're never too far from a refreshing drink. During sail-away parties, the bars serve champagne and cocktails as the resident band plays. You'll also find Al Fresco dining at the Lido by the aft pool, where you can enjoy cooked to order burgers, hotdogs and fries; perfect poolside snacks.
Yacht Club
Swing into the rhythm of the band under the splendid glass-domed roof of the Yacht Club. The sky is the limit for an evening of entertainment; meet well-known insight speakers, take notice of our resident solo jazz guitarist and dance late into the night with our DJ and dance band.
Godiva at the Chart Room
The Godiva discovery table, located outside the Chart Room on deck 2, displays the complete Godiva chocolate collection available on board. Choose between creamy milk, intense dark or indulgent white chocolates - or delight in all three. Whichever you choose, you can savour each decadent treat in the elegant Chart Room or in the comfort of your stateroom by ordering through room service.
A vast array of Queen Victoria enrichment and lecture programmes are available to expand your horizons and take you to places you have always dreamed about. Knowledge is yours for the taking through Cunard Insights.
Through Cunard Insights explore a number of historical and contemporary issues presented by a wide range of speakers including explorers, academics, former ambassadors and politicians, historians and scientists, novelists, biographers and award winning actors and film makers.
The Cunard Book Club offers the opportunity for thought-provoking literary discussions among our guests each voyage. It is led by the Librarian who will provide a short history of the author and lead the discussion.
Cunard ConneXions offers a programme of activities all day every day from watercolour to computer lessons, wine tasting to ballroom dancing as well as bridge and board games.
From the moment you step on board Queen Victoria, you are invited to do as much or as little as you like. Maybe you'd like to unwind and visit the impressive spa, or perhaps you've always wanted to learn the tango? From world renowned speakers sharing stories to shopping in the Royal Arcade - experience a world that revolves around you.
Insight and enrichment
World renowned speakers offer informative talks as part of our Insights programme. Experts from the world of art are also welcomed on board to offer both talks and practical demonstrations.
Shopping and Galleries
Our shops offer stunning jewellery, fashion and the latest fragrances, not to mention Cunard gifts. Additionally the gallery on board presents some of the world's best artists' works for viewing and sale.
Sports and Fitness
Whether you enjoy taking part or simply watching, Queen Victoria offers something for every sports enthusiast. The modern gym, swimming pools and live sport on television offer plenty of ways to get the adrenaline flowing.
Spa, Relaxation, and Leisure
There's so much to do on board, from enjoying a delicious Afternoon Tea to browsing the large library. You may choose to spend your time relaxing in the large spa, complete with treatment rooms, saunas, pool and hot stone beds.
Children's activities
Our young passengers are well catered for with activities through the day and into the evening, all age appropriate and fully staffed.
Music and theatre
You'll find music is at the very heart of Queen Victoria, with the sound of live performances gently drifting through the ship throughout the day and into the evening. The Royal Court Theatre offers West-End style shows, delivered by a cast of very talented dancers and singers.
Wine programme
Queen Victoria's wine cellar is extensive. Join our sommeliers to learn more about some of the special vintages we carry.
Dancing
The Queens Room with its sprung dance floor and crystal chandeliers is simply stunning. Dance the night away at one of the glamorous balls, or for something more contemporary head to the Yacht Club with superb dedicated jazz music, followed by a DJ and dance band late into the night.
Pub Entertainment
The Golden Lion is a faithful recreation of an English pub, complete with live sports, pub games and quizzes. It also boasts an authentic pub lunch menu including tempting fish and chips and traditional Ploughman's, or enjoy The Lion's Share, a hearty Afternoon Tea selection accompanied by a flight of beers.
Exceptional Dining
Queen Victoria's cuisine is as varied as it is delicious. The Grills restaurants offer exceptional dining for Grills guests and the Britannia and Britannia Club restaurants serve freshly prepared dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For a small supplement try The Verandah for French specialties. Alternatively, for more relaxed dining with live entertainment, visit the Lido deck for al fresco dining - perfect for sailing around the Mediterranean.
Tempting food and drink to excite the senses.
You'll find an exciting array of restaurants and bars on board Queen Victoria. The Grills Restaurants offer the most exceptional food and service at sea and the grand Britannia Restaurant reflects the classic golden age of ocean travel. The famous Cunard Afternoon Tea, relaxed Golden Lion pub and the sophisticated Commodore Club are just a few of the other highlights waiting to be enjoyed.
Queens Grill Restaurant
Guests staying in our Queens Grill Suites have a table reserved in the world-renowned Queens Grill restaurant. Here you'll be greeted with a warm welcome before you sit down and experience our exemplary White Star Service. Dine in the Queens Grill restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with dinner being served at a time that suits you between 6.30pm and 9.00pm.
Princess Grill Restaurant
Our sophisticated, intimate Princess Grill restaurant serves up unerringly excellent cuisine for breakfast and lunch, whilst dinner is served whenever it suits you between 6.30pm and 9.00pm each evening. To match your choice, our sommelier will gladly talk through the impressive wine list.
Britannia Club Restaurant
Britannia Club restaurant boasts the same grandeur as the neighbouring Britannia Restaurant, but with an intimate dining club atmosphere. Dine here for breakfast and lunch, and enjoy dinner in the evening at a time that suits you between 6.30pm and 9.00pm.
Britannia Restaurant
If you are a Britannia guest, your table reservation will be in the Britannia Restaurant where grandeur and occasion combine with exceptional service. Breakfast and lunch always feel special here and whether you've chosen to take your seat for dinner at 6.00pm or at 8.30pm; you can arrive with a flourish, down the steps of the curved staircase.
Lido
Enjoy a casual breakfast, lunch, dinner or late-night buffet in the relaxed self-service Lido restaurant. With cuisine options that take inspiration from around the world, you'll always find something to tempt you; no matter what time you feel peckish.
The Verandah Restaurant
The Verandah offers contemporary French cuisine that makes use of seasonal ingredients of exceptional provenance. Designed to create a genuine dining experience that lasts the whole evening, The Verandah takes design inspiration from the original Verandah Grill on board Queen Mary. A cover charge will apply for this restaurant.
Alternative dining
Dining 'out' is always an option. For a small supplement visit the Lido restaurant for a casual dining alternative for breakfast, lunch or dinner. As evening falls, taste the delights of our themed dining experiences. Choose from Lotus: delicious Asian cuisine, or perhaps Smokehouse: which offers an exciting American influenced menu. All of our alternative menus are sure to provide an unforgettable culinary experience.
Al Fresco Dining
Dine on deck with Al Fresco dining at the Lido. Enjoy a stunning contemporary mix of sun and shade whilst choosing from a delicious selection of made-to-order light bites, hearty grill options or a 3-course menu based on sunny Mediterranean cuisine. A full beverage service can be enjoyed throughout the day and into the evening alongside live entertainment - providing the ultimate dining experience.
It may be night time that most sets the Queen Victoria experience apart from other ships. For where else will you attend such dazzling affairs as a Black and White Ball, Royal Ascot Ball or Buccaneer Ball all in a setting as stunning as the Queens Room ballroom? Or catch a staged musical production in the Royal Court Theatre. You may want to save time for the Empire Casino or put on your dancing shoes at the Hemisphere Club.
Music
- Pianist
The Commodore Club welcomes you each evening with soft relaxing music from the beautiful ivory keys of the baby grand piano. - Sailaway party
As Queen Victoria departs port, her resident band often strikes up by the Lido pool. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail or champagne as that day's destination slips slowly from view and you begin planning tomorrow's adventure. - String Quartet
The string quartet is the perfect accompaniment to white-gloved Afternoon Tea in the Queens Room and also sets the tone for the sparkling Royal Night Theme Balls.
Theatre
- Royal Court Theatre
Take your seat for a thrilling music and dance extravaganza, comedian or singer in the magnificent Royal Court Theatre. Private boxes offer a great view and come with complimentary champagne and chocolates - the perfect evening. - Productions
Watch lavish musicals and unforgettable hi-tech productions performed by the Cunard Royal Dancers and Singers in the elegant and traditionally decorated Royal Court Theatre. - Guest performers
The Royal Court Theatre also plays host to a variety of QV's high profile guest performers - from comedy acts and variety artistes to opera singers and world-class musicians.
Dancing
- Queens Room
How often do you get to waltz in a lavish ballroom? If you're on board Queen Victoria, the answer is every evening. Dance the evening away under QV's stunning crystal chandelier, accompanied by a live orchestra. - Royal Night themed balls
Royal Night themed balls in the magnificent Queens Room ballroom are your chance to don your formal dancing attire and take to the floor in a sea of glittering ball gowns and dinner jackets accompanied by the marvellous orchestra. - Dance lessons
Whether you are a complete novice or simply wish to brush up on your skills, the daily complimentary dance lessons led by our professional dance couple are the perfect way to give you the confidence to step out on to the dance floor.
Pub Entertainment
- Karaoke
Do you fancy yourself as an entertainer? In the Golden Lion, the spotlight may be on you, as you interpret a track or two during a lively karaoke event. - Quizzes
Settle down in The Golden Lion with a favourite drink and test your mind in all kinds of trivia in the nightly pub quiz.
Our young passengers are well catered for with activities through the day and into the evening, all age appropriate and fully staffed
- Entered Service: 2007
- Last Refit: May, 2017
- Country of Registry: Bermuda
- Speed: 23.7 knots
- Guest Capacity: 2,061
- No. of Crew: 981
- Length Overall: 964.5 feet
- Width: 106 feet
- Draft: 25.9 feet
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
- Stateroom Symbol Legend
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Staterooms have views obstructed by lifeboats
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Staterooms 4.001-4.042, Deck 4 Forward, have metal fronted balconies
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Staterooms have an additional shower room
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3rd & 4th berth is a double sofabed
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3 and 4 Berth Staterooms
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Balcony visible from above
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Indicates 2 lower berths and 1 upper berth
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Views partially obstructed by lifeboat mechanism
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Indicates 3rd berth is a single sofabed
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Wheelchair accessible
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Indicates 3rd and 4th berth is a single sofabed and one upper bed
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Staterooms 6.001 & 6.002 have forward facing ocean views
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Royal Suites do not have a balcony
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Staterooms have metal fronted balconies
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Wheelchair Accessible Staterooms
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3rd & 4th berths are two upper beds
Deck Twelve
From one end of this great earth to the other, you''ll travel via the luxury of a cruise ship. Be pampered on board as your home-at-sea makes its way through international waters to far away places.
Originally a fort built by the U.S. Army in 1838 during the Second Seminole War, Fort Lauderdale welcomes visitors with broad, palm-fringed beaches and an easy pace of life. Stroll along fashionable Las Olas Boulevard with its stylish shops or enjoy a sightseeing cruise through the city''s canals, boasting more waterways than Venice. Or, venture out and explore the cosmopolitan city of Palm Beach, or the wildlife sanctuary of the Everglades.
Montego Bay: visit her outstanding underwater marine park at Cornwall Beach. Explore the Chester Castle Great House set on some 200 acres, or tour Rose Hall, a restored plantation house.
But truth be told, this isn't a tourist town per se, compared to other destinations in the Caribbean Sea . Nevertheless, there are things to see and do while you are in port.
Puerto Quetzal has become the destination of choice for historians interested in looking at ancient Mayan ruins. The ancient city of Tikal is nearby, and its ruins are remarkably well preserved. Once you've seen the ruins, take it easy along Guatemala's Pacific shore. The beaches here attract Guatemalans from all over the country.
Sail past Los Arcos, the soaring rock archway at the extreme southern tip of Baja California that guards Cabo's perfect harbor. This idyllic bay once sheltered treasure ships from the Orient, and pirate brigs bent on those treasures. Now Cabo caters to an international vacation set, and has a strong artistic tradition famous for its black-coral jewelry.
Sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge and into San Francisco's broad bay will surely be a highlight of your cruising life. Once docked along the Embarcadero, you're just a short walk from Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, North Beach and other attractions that make this one of the world's favorite cities. The scenic Napa Valley wine country is nearby, too.
Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor - these names evoke feeling of magic, mystery, drama and history, and they are all located in Honolulu. The capital of Hawaii, this city not only offers some of the best beaches along side big-city skyscrapers, there are also parks, fabulous shopping, the only royal palace in America, the Arizona Memorial in the harbor at Pearl City, the Polynesian Cultural Center and more.
After years of wandering the south seas, Robert Louis Stevenson chose this paradise as his home. If you like, visit his house and Aggie Grey's hotel. After touring the island, you'll come to understand why the Reverend John Williams, the first European to visit Apia, dubbed Samoa the "Friendly Islands."
Suva sits on the southeast shores of mountainous Viti Levu ("Great Fiji"), largest of the over 800 islands which comprise the Republic of Fiji. Local folk traditions remain strong, like fire walks and welcoming ceremonies, wood-carving and the fabrication of tree-bark cloth. The island's proud history is showcased in the Fiji Museum, with its impressive collection of war canoes.
...It is no wonder why the region has become so popular, as it is safe, exciting, diverse, and warm.From touring in a four-wheel drive vehicle through the hills to swimming with the dolphins, Tauranga has it all.The hot springs are glorious, and you could spend an entire day and night lounging in the bubbling saltwater pools.They are truly magnificent, as are the restaurants and accommodations in Tauranga...
New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.
Sydney is Australia''s showcase: the oldest settlement, the largest and most thriving city, the cultural melting pot. It curves around idyllic Port Jackson, where sandstone cliffs and bright islands complement the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Wander the cobbled colonial streets of the historic Rocks quarter, or tour the mansions of Watson''s Bay.
Nestled between the Gold Coast to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north, laid-back Brisbane makes the most of its magnificent beaches, offering an ideal blend of Aussie ease and urban energy. Wander in the lush Botanical Gardens, shop in the Queen Street Mall, or enjoy the countless cafes and restaurants along the banks of the Brisbane River.
Named after evolutionist Charles Darwin, this tropical city on the top end of Australia is a former frontier town with a rough-and-tumble past. Darwin's growth was achieved back in 1871 with the discovery of gold at Pine Creek, and today a number of historic buildings from that era remain. Darwin is also the center of the aboriginal community, the world's oldest culture. From here, you can visit Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage Site renowned not only for its Australian wildlife but Aboriginal rock art.
Known as the "Island of the Gods," Bali is famous for its shimmering beauty and fascinating culture. Hundreds of Hindu temples, towering mountains and verdant rice terraces form a spectacular backdrop to the charm of the Balinese people. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who
If you were traveling by plane to Nha Trang, this city would give the illusion that it is engulfed by beautiful elevated mountains glazed of green grass with this ideal relaxing city in between. Most of the Vietnamese come to Nha Trang to escape the hectic ways of Ho Chi Minh City. This ideal paradise island is known for its beautiful beaches with the atmosphere of warm temperature all year round. A couple of Nha Trang's famous islands include Hon Tre, Hon Yen, Hon Rua, and Spratly islands.
The city of Nha Trang contains the most beautiful beaches. Once of which is Cana beach which is a stretch of what sands and a couple restaurants that allure travelers. The Natives and visitors make a habit of indulging in the beach atmosphere mainly during the times of 5am - 8am when weather is cool instead of steaming hot. One of its extraordinary features would be the Thanh Long (Green Dragon fruit) orchards. These orchards only grow along the highway to Nha Trang and have grown quite popular.
Hong Kong is the cosmopolitan hub of the Far East. This former British colony reverted to Chinese control in 1997, yet the culture-rich atmosphere remains. See the Wong Tai Sin Temple, tour local markets and the floating village of Aberdeen. Take the Tram to the top of Victoria Peak for one of the world''s most exciting views, or cross the harbor aboard one of the famous Star Ferries. After shopping and exploring, enjoy high tea at the favored retreat of many world travelers-the Peninsula Hotel.
One of Asia's great success stories, this island republic has merged diverse cultures into a dynamic and thriving nation. Clean, modern and full of green gardens, its neighborhoods reflect the Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arab and European backgrounds of its past. After sampling the legendary shopping, retire to Raffles Hotel's famous bar and toast Maugham, Kipling and Noel Coward with a Singapore Sling.
Malaysia's capital rises like a vision from the deep jungles. Its fascinating array of architectural styles includes Malay stilt villages, Islamic minarets, Hindu temples, Chinese shop houses and the indescribable opulence of the Royal Palace. In the background rise the world's tallest buildings, the Petronas Twin Towers completed in 1996.
The swirl of Batik in eastern bazaars, the cascade of waterfalls in the Botanical Gardens, jungle-clad hills ringed by golden beaches, these are the images you will take from Penang. This lovely resort island and its bustling capital of Georgetown are the picture of Malaysian diversity. Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and Kek Lok Si, one of the most beautiful temples in Southeast Asia. See the ornate Khoo Kongsi, and old Chinese clan house; and an 18th century British fortress. Enjoy the Chinese embroidery and Malay daggers in the Penang Museum, or marvel at the Penang Bridge (third longest in the world).
Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka means "Resplendent Land," an apt description for this beautiful island. Sri Lanka lies fifty-five miles north of the equator, just off the southern tip of India. With its unique beauty, warm climate and near-perfect beaches, Sri Lanka is one of Asia's most adored destinations. Since the sixteenth century, the Portuguese, Dutch and British have all left their architectural and cultural marks in Sri Lanka's capital of Colombo. Yet despite its colonial architecture, Sri Lanka has always remained Oriental in spirit, with colorful bazaars, dancing elephants, graceful women in saris, and many Buddhist shrines and temples.
Along the eastern coast of Africa, you will find the most beautiful city known to man-kind. This dominating tourist attraction stands alone in superiority among the hearts of its past visitors. This friendly city is known for many of its exceptional historical architecture and the allurement of its sites. Within sight of the Algoa Bay lies Port Elizabeth, engulfed in captivating serene country sides.
Dating back to 1820, Port Elizabeth became the country's first permanent British resident. A crew of 4,000 British Settlers that arrived by sea found this city. Port Elizabeth acquired her name from the late wife Elizabeth of the Acting Governor of Cape Colony, Sir Rufane Donkin. This Gateway city to the Eastern Cape is composed of a population over one million, which appoints this city as the fifth largest by population and second largest by area. Port Elizabeth plays an imperative role in the economical growth and well-being of South Africa. This role includes the contribution of the automobile industry for transportation and things such as keeping airports well equipped, port and harbor integrating South Africa with international and national destinations.
Such a beautiful sight to see contains alluring sites such as The Oceanarium, which is known for the notorious Dolphin and seal spectacle, the dolphin research centre, underwater observation area in the aquarium, two larger tanks of sharks and stingrays, and 40 different species of bony fish. The ideal weather in this city provides the perfect atmosphere for water sports. Within this utopian city lie extraordinary findings so we won't dare expose all of its possessions.
One of the world's most scenic harbors, the "Mother City" has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Take a cable car ride to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, the city's dominating landmark, for a panoramic view of the Cape from 3,300 feet. At nearby Stellenbosch, the university town famous for its Cape Dutch architecture, sip crisp local vintages at one of the well-known wine estates.
Walvis Bay is an outpost on the empty stretch of Southwest Africa they call the Skeleton Coast. It was named for the whales once hunted here. Behind the town is the Namib Desert with trackless dunes inhabited by hardy, exotic desert plants and, now and then, a hungry lion or a ghostly herd of elephants. There is only one road, and it leads to Windhoek, Namibia's capital.