Meet the indigenous Ngabe farmers and learn how cacao is cultivated. The tour will start with a 30-minute boat ride and 10 minutes on the road to access the Oreba Chocolate Farm in Bocas del Toro.  Cacao cultivation and chocolate production are becoming one of Panama’s most coveted exports, and is completely run and managed by the indigenous Ngabe farmers of the community. The local English-speaking tour guides who are cacao farmers in the community will describe and show you the entire process of organic shade-grown cacao, explaining every step of the way including growing, harvesting, fermenting, drying and ultimately roasting and making chocolate. You will take an adventurous hike that weaves in and out of jungle and cacao trees and because the tour takes place within the protected shade grown farms of the locals there are always many animals to see along the way. It is not uncommon to spot poison dart frogs, sloths, and toucans.

 

Please note:   Wear light clothes and hiking shoes. Bring sunglasses, a cap, camera, insect repellent and sunscreen. 

 

 

 

With this excursion you will fill your cup with the bold history of Cartagena and the rich goodness of pure Colombian Coffee. Your adventure will begin with a 15-minute motor coach ride to San Felipe Fortress, built in the 17th century. You will make a photo stop there before continuing on for a sightseeing tour of the Old City. You will visit a beautifully restored colonial house where you will get a good idea about colonial architecture and restoration. Then on to an experience to awaken the senses, touch, sight, taste, and smell and discover the amazing flavors of excellent Colombian Coffee.  You will have a introduction to Colombian Coffee, an overview of the coffee process, raw materials, quality assessments, smelling and tasting exercises, finishing with tasting 3 different coffees through alternative coffee rituals.  You will then have the opportunity for a walking tour along the narrow streets and squares of the walled city, followed by a panoramic sightseeing  tour of modern Cartagena and its bay.

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

The magnificent city of Cartagena, once a preferred target for pirates and the treasure chest of the Spanish Main, is yours to explore as you embark an air-conditioned bus or mini-bus today. On tour, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide as you travel past marvelous Republican architecture. You will see the Manga residential area, where some of the aging mansions have been restored to their original splendor. Stop for a half hour to explore the Fort of San Felipe de Barajas, a 17th century construction acknowledged to be the most important work of Spanish Military engineering in Latin America. At Las Bovedas (the Dungeons), about 20 minutes is allowed for handicraft shopping and for rubbing elbows with the local artisans who proudly display their works for you. Pass through Simón Bolívar Square and the Inquisition Palace before continuing on to the Cathedral, also called The Minor Basilica, it was the first church built in the city in 1537. Next stop is the Church of San Pedro Claver—the patron saint of slaves. You will find Colombia’s famous native gem—the emerald—along with handicrafts and leather goods shops. You will have approximately 40 minutes to shop before returning to the ship.

 

Please note: Guests who remain in town for shopping will have to return to the ship on their own. 

 

 

 

Depart from the port of Cartagena for the short drive to the famous Getsemaní district. This neighborhood represents a different side a Cartagena.  You will have time to explore this area which embodies the greatest cultural heritage of the city. From the colonial architecture and history, to the brightness of its streets and the colorful personality of its people, this populous sector of the city is a magical place that every visitor will appreciate. After your guided walk through the narrow streets of Getsemaní, you will arrive at a point to observe the Convent La Popa located at the highest point of Cartagena, San Felipe Fort, and San Sebastian del Pastelillo Port, where the tour guide will give all the historical information on these three highly relevant city monuments. Your tour will bring you to the barracks of Bóvedas, former jail cells now converted to colorful handicraft stores and galleries.  This construction consists of 47 arches and 23 vaults, considered the last work of the period of the Colony. You will have time to browse and shop. Your tour will continue as you follow the wall and make a walk through the main streets and squares of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After your free time for shopping or wondering around Cartagena's Open Air Museum, enjoy a panoramic tour before returning to the ship.

 

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.  Please wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and bring your camera.

 

 

 

You will board your motor coach for the 15-minute drive to San Felipe Fortress, the largest Spanish fort built in the 17th century.  You will have time to take photos before taking a sightseeing drive through the Old City, admiring the marvelous Republican architecture of the houses in the Manga residential area. You will be taken to the Emerald Museum – Bocagrande to learn about emeralds.You will go into an actual size replica of a mine tunnel and experience what mining is like as you watch the emerald-bearing veins. Then you will be taken to a special room for a lecture and a video on emeralds. You will learn how emeralds are extracted from the mines and brought to the different cutting and polishing centers. You will see the cutting and polishing machines and be shown step by step how each stone is cut and polished and you will have the opportunity to practice cutting a stone if you wish. Visit the jewelry making workshop and watch the process of fabricating sterling silver or 18k gold emerald jewelry before you visit the spacious and comfortable showroom. Then, enjoy a cocktail and have the opportunity to shop with an extra discount for you, before returning to the ship. On your way back to the ship you will have a sightseeing tour of modern Cartagena - Bocagrande, Laguito, Castillo Grande and the bay.

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.  Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

On an air conditioned bus, during this 40-minute ride to the wonderful island of Baru, the newest tourist development area in Colombia, you may sit back and enjoy the scenery of other areas of Cartagena, take a look to the growing industrial area and finally arrive to the National Aviary, one of the best aviaries in the world given its high number of species. Colombia is the country in the world holding the highest bird diversity, with more than 1,900 species and The National Aviary displays an important sample of this variety.  Once you arrive to the National Aviary, you may initiate your tour and explore the different bird observation stations arranged by habitat and species on your own such as:

• Tropical Forest, where you may find different kinds of Macaws, Harpy Eagles, Tangaras and other varieties of species as well as different kinds of palm trees, waterfalls and the Macaque Monkeys.

• Coastlines and Mangroves, the habitat of different kind of Ducks, Cormorants and Pelicans.

• Coastline, where you will be able to observe different kinds of Herons, Doves, Storks and the migrating Teals.

• Dessert Station an environment where different species such as the Cardinals, Mockingbirds and Partridges live

• Andean Region, in this station you may admire the Owls, Eagles and the famous Andean Condor, king of our mountains.

After this marvelous trip surrounded by birds, beautiful landscapes, palm trees and waterfalls you will have time for enjoying some beverages or drinking some delicious Colombian Coffee to later on get on your bus back to Cartagena and be ready to enjoy a wonderful short photo stop at the San Felipe Fort then a sightseeing of The Old City of Cartagena before returning to the ship.

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.  Please wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and bring your camera.

You will be picked up from the ship and board an air-conditioned coach for an informative tour of the island. You will see the rugged beauty of the island’s interior and the contrast of the soft, sandy coast line. You will see how the people of Aruba live and be taken to sights that are off the beaten path.  Highlights of this tour include the California Lighthouse, a structure over 90 feet high, built of local stones, the Ayo Rock Formation, that is the Stone Henge of Aruba. You will be able to climb the rocks to take pictures if you wish.  You will also see Bushiribana, the ruins of one of Aruba’s famous gold mines, and the Natural Bridge, a gorgeous stretch of coral limestone that is 25 feet high and 100 feet long, making it one of the largest in the world.  Other experiences include climbing through the gold ruins, sampling aloe beauty products, and learning about Aruba’s rich cultural history.

Please note: This tour is for disembarking guests with flights 3:30 p.m. or later. A signed liability waiver is required from each participant before departure. There are no restrooms on these coaches, but arrangements have been made for stops. Restroom charges are included in the per person price. Wear comfortable walking shoes and your sunglasses.  This tour is non-refundable 72 hours prior.

 

 

 

Discover the scents and aromas of the “Isle of Spice” on this full day sightseeing tour by motor coach. Your driver will follow the picturesque West Coast, rich in history and color, to the Diamond Chocolate Factory in Victoria, which produces the Jouvay chocolate ranked by the National Geographic in the top 10 of the Best Chocolate in the World. You will learn how chocolate (tree to bar) is produced and exported.  A delicious chocolate tasting and sampling will conclude this enjoyable visit to one of the most amazing sites in the Caribbean. Next, drive north for a magnificent view of the Grenadine Islands to the fishing town of Sauteurs, located at the northern point of the island. Arrive at Lake Antoine, a shallow crater lake formed by the collapsed cone of a volcano which hosts a wide variety of wildlife, then on to a delicious Creole lunch served at the restaurant of the plantation. Leaving the restaurant you will return to the pier through the rainforest over the mountains with a stop at Grand Etang, home of the mona monkey, and Annandale Fall where you can take a short walk through the stunning gardens.

 

Please note:  Tour order may vary and taking photos or videos inside the nutmeg factory is not allowed.

 

 

 

The Balthazar River nestled in an exotic tropical rainforest is fed from sources deep in the island’s interior. Here is your opportunity to have a thrilling river tubing experience on what is known locally as the “Great River.”   You will take a 45-minute journey from St. George’s through the scenic hilly interior of the Grand Etang Rainforest Reserve to the Balthazar Estate. Your arrival will be followed by a safety briefing before you’ll be equipped with a life vest, modified inner tube, and a paddle. You will be accompanied by guides as you gently spin and swirl in the river currents. Marvel at the exotic views of tropical vegetation and wildlife as your thrilling river ride progresses. Several pools along the way provide the perfect opportunity to catch your breath. Finally sample a much-deserved rum punch or local fruit juice. All too soon, it’s time to return to the ship.

Please note:  River levels vary according to the amount of rainfall and may affect operation of the tour. Wear your swimsuit and bring along a towel and water shoes. Participants need to be physically fit and there is a weight limit of 230 lbs.

The Tower Estate is a unique property that is known as the Downton Abbey of Grenada. This estate has been the home of the Slinger Family since the mid 1940’s and is a beautiful 107-year-old historic Victorian-style great house that sits atop a small peak in the Parish of St. George.  It boasts a 1-1/2-acre lush tropical ornamental flower garden, surrounded by flowering trees, shrubs, vegetables, fruit trees and the island’s world-famous array of spices.  The magnificent stone and wood building features mahogany ceilings, hand-crafted paneled walls, furnished with period antiques, reminiscent of yesteryear and adorned with a unique collection of maps and prints that hold the keys to rich, historical stories of Grenada. Your tour will include a tour of the garden and the house where you will enjoy light snacks that will include Grenada's famous chocolate and incredible blue tea. 

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility issues due to the garden visit and the amount of time spent standing.

 

 

 

Depart the Soufriere dock for a short transfer through the historic town of Soufriere and up through the hills to Fond Doux Plantation set on 135 acres of land. Locally owned and operated, this award winning property is over 25 years old. Your time on the plantation will begin with a guided walking tour, where you will learn about the cocoa process, chocolate making and the rich history of the island. Situated among the cocoa groves, you will not only get to smell the cocoa throughout the tour, but will also have the opportunity to see the various stages of the chocolate making process. Enjoy sampling fruits in season grown on the property and a refreshing drink before returning to the port.

Please note: Persons prone to motion sickness are required to take the necessary precautions prior to the tour as the roads are winding and bumpy. All persons participating in this tour must be in good health and physical condition and not suffering from heart, respiratory, back, leg, hip or neck conditions. All children on tour must be under the guidance of their guardian/parent at all times during the tour. The Tour timing itinerary may vary depending on traffic on the day. There is not a shopping stop on this tour, however there is a small gift shop at Fond Doux where guests may purchase a small souvenir. Wear comfortable flat rubber-soled shoes.

Your excursion will begin with a drive through the quaint town of Soufriere, bypassing the town square and Cathedral.  Your first stop will take you to the Botanical Gardens and Diamond Baths which was once a famous spot for Napoleon’s wife, Josephine. Marvel at the tropical plants carefully arranged along the pathway. Enjoy a view of the waterfall observing how the mineral water flows into a stream. Just a short drive away is the Toraille Waterfall set amid tropical surroundings.  Spend time dipping in the natural cold water pool under the cascading falls. Your journey will continue with a short drive to a nearby beach with the Pitons as your backdrop. Spend time soaking in the sea and sun or simply relaxing on the sand.  Your time in Soufriere comes to an end as you are transferred back to the Soufriere dock. 

Please note: All persons participating in this tour must be in good health and physical condition and not suffering from heart, respiratory, back, leg, hip or neck conditions. Buses in Soufriere are not air-conditioned. Persons prone to motion sickness are required to take the necessary precautions prior to the tour as the roards are winding and bumpy. There is not a shopping stop on this tour, however guests may purchase a small souvenir at the gift shop at the gardens. The water flow of the waterfall & the water level of the pool, will be low in the event of limited rainfall. During heavy rainfall, the waterpool will look brown due to excess silt. Tour timing may vary depending on traffic on the day. Tour does not include beach chairs. Bring sunscreen, camera, inspect repellent, towel, USD if guests wish to purchase snacks and refreshments on the beach. Swimwear should be worn underneath clothing. Wear comfortable clothing and flat rubber soled shoes.

Soufriere is blessed with many natural wonders both above and below the surface of the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. These include some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Caribbean.  Depart the Soufriere dock on board a motorized Catamaran or a 38-ft Bertram for your snorkel adventure at one of the island's Marine Reserves.  Anchored or tied to a mooring, you will enter the water directly from the boat. Spend time snorkeling at a Marine Reserve, home to a variety of colorful tropical reef fish and coral.  After your snorkel adventure, board a boat for a cruise to the Soufriere dock and ship.

Please note: All persons participating in this tour must be in good health and physical condition and not suffering from heart, respiratory, back, leg, hip or neck conditions. In the event of a breakdown sufficient time must be given for a replacement boat. Guests may be required to enter the water directly from the boat. 

Located in the town of Soufriere, you’ll visit one of the top local restaurants in the area owned by local celebrity chef - Orlando Satchell. Depart the Soufriere docks for a short drive to Chef Ornlando's Restaurant where you will be met by Chef Orlando and his team, with a cold towel and welcome drink. In the simple and delightful restaurant setting, Chef Orlando will demonstrate his fine culinary expertise and create some mouthwatering fusions. Interact with the Chef and learn cooking tips for creating amazing dishes. Afterwards, you’ll be seated to enjoy a delicious 3-course Caribbean style lunch before heading back to the Soufriere docks and ship.

Please note: All persons participating in this tour must be in good health and physical condition and not suffering from heart, respiratory, back, leg, hip or neck conditions. Buses in Soufriere are not air-conditioned. Tour timing may vary depending on traffic on the day. Please advise 48 hours prior to tour if there are any vegetarians or persons with specific food allergies. Bring cameras, Insect Repellent, USD if guests wish to purchase a small souvenir from Chef Orlando's Restaurant and wear comfortable clothing and flat rubber soled shoes.

Depart from the ship and take a short ride via tender to the small pier at Man-O-War Bay.  On arrival you will board a coach for a 15-minute delightful scenic and mountainous drive to the town of Speyside to the Blue Waters Inn where a glass bottom boat awaits. Cruise out of the tiny harbor and down the emerald coast before heading out to Angel Reef. A favorite for divers around the world, Angel Reef boast crystal-clear water providing visibility up to 100 feet. Enjoy another perspective of Tobago as your guide will highlight points of interest and share his knowledge of this underwater environment. Float over 1,000-year-old coral formations. Observe huge sponges and the world’s largest single brain coral. You will see colorful reef fish and diverse marine life in their natural habitat. The boat will drop anchor and you are invited to snorkel, swim or simply relax on board. Cold drinks will be served before your return to Blue Waters Inn where you will have the opportunity to spend some free time before your journey back to Charlotteville to re-join your ship. 

Please note: For your comfort please wear a swimsuit and bring a towel, sunhat and sunscreen. This tour cannot accommodate guests with mobility issues.

You will depart Charlotteville in a mini-bus and travel up and over the lush mountains for a scenic drive along the eastern seashore. Stop at the Speyside Lookout and enjoy sweeping views of mountains, coast and offshore islands. Continue on through tiny villages clinging to the mountainsides, past picturesque bays, as you learn about Tobago’s turbulent history and the fascinating mélange of people that make up her present citizenry. You will make your way to Gilpin Trace where your trained Naturalist Guide will meet you to begin your trek. The hike will take you through the oldest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, the Gilpin Trace, famous for its abundance of birdlife. Learn about Tobago’s indigenous flora and fauna as your guide will point out the most interesting species. Stop for a break, to listen to the sounds of the forest along the way. Enjoy a quiet moment in this beautiful forest before returning to your mini-bus to make your way back to the ship.

 

Please note: Due to strenuous hiking routes, participants should be physically fit. Please wear the appropriate shoes. If you wish you can bring along a snack from the ship.  You will be provided with bottled water on this tour.

 

 

 

Enjoy a half-day tour of Tobago’s rainforest.  Your drive will take you along Tobago’s Windward Coast to Roxborough and entry to the Argyle Waterfalls Trail, where you will turn off the Main Ridge and enter the oldest Forest Reserve in the Western Hemisphere.  At the rainforest, a Naturalist Guide will take you for a 20-minute hike (each way) through lush tropical vegetation, abundant in plant and wildlife. Next you will visit the 3-tiered Argyle Waterfalls, where you may swim in the natural pool or simply take in the tranquility of the reserve. After your rainforest and waterfall adventure, you will make your way back to Charlotteville and re-board your waiting ship. 

Please note: This tour cannot accommodate guests with wheelchairs. Wear comfortable walking shoes.  The hike to the falls is 20-30 minutes.

Your tour will begin with a leisurely drive along the Gold Coast, home to many wealthy residents, and will take you to the stunning area of Bathsheba.  This is where the Atlantic surf pounds the coastline and it is a famous spot for international and local surfing competitions.  A walk on the beach is a must. Heading into the hills, you will arrive at St. John’s Church. There are stunning views from the churchyard   - a perfect photo opportunity.  The church contains an interesting sculpture depicting the Madonna and Child with the infant St. John. The graveyard contains the tomb of Ferdinand Paleologus, a descendant of the Byzantine Imperial family.  The present building was constructed in 1836, and the pulpit is constructed from six different kinds of wood: ebony, locust, Barbados mahogany, manchineel, oak and pine. Through sleepy country villages and sugar cane fields, you will make your way to Sunbury House dating back to 1650. The house was destroyed by fire in 1995, and was gracefully restored and re-opened in 1996. It possesses one of the country's superior collections of antiques. The cellar houses a unique collection of antique carriages, the largest collection in the Caribbean, as well as many items used in the domestic life of the plantation. It also houses a very old collection of optical machinery and sight testing equipment, some of the first to come to the West Indies including the first lens grinding plant.  Enjoy a light deli-style lunch with a complimentary rum or fruit punch.  A short drive will take you to your Windstar Hotel.

Please note: There are about 20 steps to climb at Sunbury House and 10 steps down to the cellar.