Maiden World Voyage

Step aboard in Southampton & straight into that holiday feeling. No flights, no hassle. Just the excitement of the days ahead and the promise of memorable moment. So, relax and raise a toast as the UK drifts from sight. Before you know it, youll be watching your destination come into view. But where will it be ?

See the bright lights of the Big Apple, international mecca and melting pot, with expensive brownstones, colourful neighbourhoods, great museums and ambling parks. Some come just for the shopping: theres Bloomingdales on Lex, Tiffanys on Fifth, Barneys and the unique boutiques along Madison. Or head downtown and explore the trendy shops of SoHo.

See the bright lights of the Big Apple, international mecca and melting pot, with expensive brownstones, colourful neighbourhoods, great museums and ambling parks. Some come just for the shopping: theres Bloomingdales on Lex, Tiffanys on Fifth, Barneys and the unique boutiques along Madison. Or head downtown and explore the trendy shops of SoHo.

Brightly coloured houses, vibrant street life, a distinct buzz in the air – all are part of the experience when you visit the Schooner Market and watch merchants sell exotic fruit and fresh fish direct from tiny boats.

The modern port city of Puerto Quetzal is your gateway to the delights of Guatemala. Situated on the Pacific coastline, 67 miles south of Guatemala City, Puerto Quetzal is one of the major ports serving the Central American country. Explore the World Heritage Site of La Antigua Guatemala, head for the highlands to take in Lake Atitlan and uncover a colourful history dating back to Mayan times. On your travels you’ll see a completely different lifestyle in the roadside villages surrounding Puerto Quetzal and encounter breathtaking landscapes, punctuated with verdant mountains, dormant volcanoes, rolling hills and mesmerising coastline.

Whilst growing as a fashionable tourist destination, the Mexican resort of Cabo San Lucas still maintains its sparse and uncrowded atmosphere, and boasts a warm hospitality which matches the sunshine. Nestled on the southern tip of Mexicos Baja California Peninsula, Cabo is famous for its casual atmosphere, exciting nightlife, and stunning beaches and scenery.

When John Fremont sailed into San Francisco in 1846, he found no famous bridge, but a golden light reflecting off the high cliffs that flank the bays only entrance. He named it Golden Gate and its glowing welcome still creates a striking first impression today.

When John Fremont sailed into San Francisco in 1846, he found no famous bridge, but a golden light reflecting off the high cliffs that flank the bays only entrance. He named it Golden Gate and its glowing welcome still creates a striking first impression today.

Combine the languid allure of the tropics, big city sophistication and the spirit of Aloha, and youve discovered Oahu. Known as “The Gathering Place”, this Pacific crossroads is a tapestry of cultural diversity from Polynesian sensuality and Oriental mystique to American pragmatism. And it all blends together in one of the most harmonious gatherings in the world.

Combine the languid allure of the tropics, big city sophistication and the spirit of Aloha, and youve discovered Oahu. Known as “The Gathering Place”, this Pacific crossroads is a tapestry of cultural diversity from Polynesian sensuality and Oriental mystique to American pragmatism. And it all blends together in one of the most harmonious gatherings in the world.

Apia is Samoa’s wonderful capital, sitting on a natural harbour at the mouth of the Vaisigano River. It is praised widely for its luscious interiors, beautiful beaches, waterfalls and friendly locals. Apia retains some of its wooden colonial buildings, most notably the old courthouse, which has an interesting museum on its upper floor. It is also the burial place of writer Robert Louis Stevenson.

In nearly 250 years since Captain Cook named then the Friendly Islands, little has changed. It remains the last kingdom in the South Pacific, colourful coral gardens are still untouched and the pleasure of sipping cool coconut milk fresh from the shell is as strong as it ever was.

In a nation where stunning scenery is taken for granted, this water wonderland sparkles like a freshly polished jewel. Over 48 extinct volcanoes cloaked in wild mountainous scenery encircle the “City of Sails”. An undulating succession of bays and inlets stretch along its endless shores. Even the downtown area with its expansive, farm-like parks exudes a sense of spacious beauty.

In a nation where stunning scenery is taken for granted, this water wonderland sparkles like a freshly polished jewel. Over 48 extinct volcanoes cloaked in wild mountainous scenery encircle the “City of Sails”. An undulating succession of bays and inlets stretch along its endless shores. Even the downtown area with its expansive, farm-like parks exudes a sense of spacious beauty.

Tauranga is the largest and most populated port in the Bay of Plenty region. This is an appropriate name due to the abundant beaches, rolling white waters, hot mineral springs and even kiwi orchards. From here visit the thermal wonders of Rotorua, where geysers spout, mud boils and steam escapes through cracks in the pavement. Maori people have used the healing hot springs since the 14th century.

North of Auckland, along the narrow Northland peninsula, lies a shady ‘cathedral’ of some of the world’s largest trees. These hulking specimens stand up to 170 feet tall, and are over 1,200 years old. The captivating Bay of Islands shelters 150 islands and enchanting wetlands of birdlife, fish, seals, dolphins, and even whales. No wonder it’s one of New Zealand’s favourite destinations.

Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”. With an area that sprawls 670 square miles, Sydney is one of the largest cities in the world. But its the exquisite Sydney Harbour that draws world-wide acclaim – that, along with its magnificent Opera House. And with nearly three days, youll have plenty of time to go exploring.

Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”. With an area that sprawls 670 square miles, Sydney is one of the largest cities in the world. But its the exquisite Sydney Harbour that draws world-wide acclaim – that, along with its magnificent Opera House. And with nearly three days, youll have plenty of time to go exploring.

Come face to face with koalas, kangaroos and wombats on tours from this laid-back city. Wander in botanical gardens and enjoy people-watching from a cafe on the Brisbane River.

Discover the history and sightseeing highlights of this charming beachside town. Your coach will take you to the Proserpine Historical Museum, where you’ll delve into the legacy of the region’s sugar and cattle industries, as well as viewing a ‘Digger’ vintage steam locomotive that was used in the sugar fields during WWI. Then you’ll take in the highlights of this developing area, pausing at the Harbour Lookout for stunning panoramic views, and concluding with refreshments at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Yorkeys Knob is a coastal suburb of Cairns, in Cairns Region, Far North Queensland, Australia. It is north of the centre of Cairns, and is the third beach suburb after Machans Beach and Holloways Beach.

Situated on the remote northern shores of Australia’s ‘Top End,’ balmy Darwin has matured from its early days as a true frontier settlement to become a welcoming, lively and multicultural modern city. Your guide to Darwin. Darwin is a thriving, multifaceted city and capital of Australias Northern Territory – one of the most remote and sparsely populated regions in the country. Built on the Timor Sea, the city is the gateway to some of Northern Australia’s most striking natural scenery, while its proximity to South East Asia has fuelled Darwin’s status as a bridge between the country and neighbouring Indonesia. Colossal mountains, verdant grasslands and sprawling national parks surround Darwin’s bustling urban centre, while characterful taverns, unique cultural attractions and a fabulous assortment of fresh fish restaurants reinforce the city’s welcoming, congenial feel.

The Philippines’ sprawling capital city is a bustling hub of diverse cultures and heritage. Manila’s heady assortment of historical influences combine to give the city its unique identity. A long and varied history stretches back as far as 5,000 years, with human life occupying the area from around 3000 BC. The city first flourished during the Ming Dynasty due to trade relations with China, before experiencing invasions by Indian, Bruneian and further Chinese empires and then becoming the seat of the colonial government of Spain.

Contradiction is part of Hong Kong’s attraction. While the city buzzes with modern commerce, soaring skyscrapers and sophistication, it remains a place of ancient beliefs and intriguing local customs. Your guide to Hong Kong. Few cities balance old and new like Hong Kong. A city as fiercely modern as it is traditional, life here pulses with vigour and vitality while still honouring ancient customs and beliefs. Market traders hawk steaming dumplings on neon-lit streets. Sacred temples stand in the shadow of skyscrapers and luxury boutiques populate glossy shopping centres. Contradiction is all part of Hong Kong’s appeal, the city’s dynamic personality a complementary blend of Chinese and British influences. Heralded as one of the world’s foremost culinary, cultural and commercial capitals, a port call here provides myriad ways to satisfy your stomach, your senses and your suitcase.

Contradiction is part of Hong Kong’s attraction. While the city buzzes with modern commerce, soaring skyscrapers and sophistication, it remains a place of ancient beliefs and intriguing local customs. Your guide to Hong Kong. Few cities balance old and new like Hong Kong. A city as fiercely modern as it is traditional, life here pulses with vigour and vitality while still honouring ancient customs and beliefs. Market traders hawk steaming dumplings on neon-lit streets. Sacred temples stand in the shadow of skyscrapers and luxury boutiques populate glossy shopping centres. Contradiction is all part of Hong Kong’s appeal, the city’s dynamic personality a complementary blend of Chinese and British influences. Heralded as one of the world’s foremost culinary, cultural and commercial capitals, a port call here provides myriad ways to satisfy your stomach, your senses and your suitcase.

The port of Phu Mey is one of Vietnam’s culinary centres, and your gateway to exploring history-rich Ho Chi Minh City and the seaside resort of Vung Tau. The vibrancy and history offered is enticing. Still fondly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a continuous whirl of the aroma of fresh noodles, the sight of orange-garbed monks and the buzzing of scooters, all in a French colonial backdrop.

Modern Singapore is a fascinating mélange of cultures. Browse the shop-houses of Little India, perfumed with fragrant spices and flowers. Have tea in Chinatown where medicine shops and calligraphers line the narrow streets. Meander through the worlds largest collection of orchids in the Botanic Garden, and walk through Raffles Landing, the old colonial district with its restored British-style buildings.

Modern Singapore is a fascinating mélange of cultures. Browse the shop-houses of Little India, perfumed with fragrant spices and flowers. Have tea in Chinatown where medicine shops and calligraphers line the narrow streets. Meander through the worlds largest collection of orchids in the Botanic Garden, and walk through Raffles Landing, the old colonial district with its restored British-style buildings.

Penang is an alluring mixture of golden beaches and cultural gems. Along Malaysia’s north coast, Penang’s most famous beach is lined with luxury Asian hotels. The capital George Town is a UNESCO Site. Your guide to Penang. Caressing Malaysia’s northwest coast, Penang is a vibrant blend of cultures, religions and architecture, unfurling in an explosion of colours, sounds and scents. Split across mainland Malaysia and Penang island, its colonial capital George Town is a contradictory blend of historic buildings and glossy skyscrapers that’s earned UNESCO world heritage status. Fringed by dense jungle and opal sea, Penang’s sand beaches are things of beauty while its flavoursome street food is among the finest in Asia. Hit the mural trail to discover the city’s 50+ outdoor artworks, walk the Clan Jetty and tantalise your taste buds with a heady array of fusion flavours.

Youll find beauty, beaches and la bonne vie in this former French Colony. Its encircled with picturesque villages, volcanic peaks, aquamarine lagoons and a spectacular coral reef. The capital of Port Louis offers shopping bargains at the old-fashioned central market. Take a Land Rover to see deer, monkeys and rare birds at the 3,000 acre Domaine Les Pailles. Go bird watching at Casela Bird Park. Or set out on a catamaran to admire the sun-drenched beauty of the island, landing on dazzling white beaches and snorkelling amongst shoals brimming with kaleidoscopic fish.

The summer resort of Transvaalers is your gateway to some of South Africas greatest attractions. Discover the breathtaking Valley of a Thousand Hills, the Kingdom of the Zulu. Or set out along The Garden Route, a region of high mountains, lush forests, sun drenched beaches and quaint little towns, an explorers dream and undoubtedly one of South Africas premier sights.

The “Mother City” has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Not only is it one of the most beautiful cities in the world – tucked into the arms of a broad bay, beneath Table Mountain – but it is also surrounded by wild beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day you can ride the cable car to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, with majestic Cape Town at your feet and the Cape of Good Hope in the distance. Less than an hour away, you can go wine tasting at Stellenbosch, famous for its Cape Dutch architecture and fine estate wines.

The “Mother City” has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Not only is it one of the most beautiful cities in the world – tucked into the arms of a broad bay, beneath Table Mountain – but it is also surrounded by wild beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day you can ride the cable car to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, with majestic Cape Town at your feet and the Cape of Good Hope in the distance. Less than an hour away, you can go wine tasting at Stellenbosch, famous for its Cape Dutch architecture and fine estate wines.

The “Diamond of Africa” is a country of stark beauty and contrasting landscapes. It is home to the worlds oldest desert, the worlds highest sand dunes, and a diversity of people that have created an intriguing blend of cultures and traditions. Tales of shipwrecks echo along the Skeleton Coast where you can visit the old world resort of Swakopmund and glimpse Spitzkoppe, a volcanic mountain known as Namibias Matterhorn. Discover the largest breeding colony in southern Africa at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve. Admire the scenic splendour of a vast lagoon sheltering 31 species of birds including thousands of flamingos. For a change of pace, go sightseeing from a donkey cart or kayak across a lagoon.

Let your senses sing. Dakars Marché Sandaga bustles and dazzles with brilliant, vibrant fabrics. Jazz and steel bands add the hypnotic rhythms along the broad boulevards.

Beloved for its beaches, Tenerife also offers a feast for the eyes. Either from the numerous galleries and museums or the incredibly panoramic cable car ascent of Mount Teide, there is so much to see. Tenerife is soothing on the ears, too. Listen for the timple, a distinctive element of Canarian folk music, or perhaps catch a recital at the Auditorio, home to the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra.

Step aboard in Southampton & straight into that holiday feeling. No flights, no hassle. Just the excitement of the days ahead and the promise of memorable moment. So, relax and raise a toast as the UK drifts from sight. Before you know it, youll be watching your destination come into view. But where will it be ?