14°00’50”N
2011/12 Cruise Calendar Adonia Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
D101
22 May 2011
16
Western Mediterranean
92
D107
16 Aug 2011
14
North Cape & Fjords
157
D113
22 Nov 2011
14
Eastern Mediterranean
Page 119
D102
7 Jun 2011
14
North Cape & Fjords
155
D108
30 Aug 2011
17
Western Mediterranean
97
D114
6 Dec 2011
14
Central Mediterranean
114
D103
21 Jun 2011
7
Fjords
81
D109
16 Sep 2011
26
Black Sea
118
D115
20 Dec 2011
14
Eastern Mediterranean
121
D104
28 Jun 2011
16
Baltic
150
D110
12 Oct 2011
17
Western Mediterranean
98
D201
3 Jan 2012
10
Western Mediterranean
101
D105
14 Jul 2011
12
Around Britain
169
D111
29 Oct 2011
10
Western Mediterranean
100
D106
26 Jul 2011
21
Central Mediterranean
109
D112
8 Nov 2011
14
Central Mediterranean
114
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
J102
29 Mar 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
90
JTX
26 May 2011
28
USA, Panama & Mexico
166
J108
18 Aug 2011
13
Around Britain
169
J103
12 Apr 2011
72
Caribbean, USA & Canada
162
JPX
8 Jun 2011
15
USA Transatlantic
166
J109
31 Aug 2011
24
USA & Canada
167
JMR
12 Apr 2011
26
Caribbean, Mexico & USA
163
JYX
13 Jun 2011
10
USA Transatlantic
167
J110
24 Sep 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
112
JMT
12 Apr 2011
44
Caribbean, USA & Canada
163
J104
23 Jun 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
93
J111
10 Oct 2011
19
Eastern Mediterranean
118
JRX
8 May 2011
46
Caribbean, USA & Canada
164
J105
7 Jul 2011
14
Baltic
150
J112
29 Oct 2011
23
Caribbean No Fly
136
JTP
26 May 2011
13
USA, Panama & Mexico
164
J106
21 Jul 2011
14
Spitsbergen & Fjords
157
J113
21 Nov 2011
12
Canary Islands
143
JTY
26 May 2011
17
USA, Panama & Mexico
166
J107
4 Aug 2011
14
Baltic
151
J114
17 Dec 2011
23
Caribbean No Fly
137
P&O CRUISES WELCOME
A warm welcome to the P&O Cruises 2011 fourth edition brochure. There’s a lot of excitement surrounding the launch of our new programme, both from our passengers, eager for news of adventures to come, and from us, the team behind the scenes, keen to share everything that’s waiting within.
Arcadia
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
R102
14 Apr 2011
21
Caribbean No Fly
136
R109
24 Jul 2011
7
Fjords
83
R116
1 Nov 2011
11
Canary Islands
143
R103
5 May 2011
13
Baltic
149
R110
31 Jul 2011
12
Western Mediterranean
96
R117
12 Nov 2011
2
Belgium
76
R105
21 May 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
107
R111
12 Aug 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
110
R118
14 Nov 2011
36
Caribbean & Panama No Fly
137
R106
6 Jun 2011
14
Spitsbergen & Fjords
155
R112
28 Aug 2011
21
Black Sea
118
R119
20 Dec 2011
15
Canary Islands
144
R107
20 Jun 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
108
R113
18 Sep 2011
24
USA & Canada
167
R108
6 Jul 2011
18
Fjords, Greenland & Iceland
156
R115
15 Oct 2011
17
Central Mediterranean
113
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
A107
1 Apr 2011
7
Spain, Portugal & France
78
A117
22 Jul 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
95
A127/A
9/10 Dec 2011
15
Caribbean
128
A108
8 Apr 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
90
A118
5 Aug 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
109
A128/A
23/24 Dec 2011
15
Caribbean
129
A109
22 Apr 2011
4
Belgium, Netherlands & France
77
A119
21 Aug 2011
12
Canary Islands
141
A201/A
6/7 Jan 2012
15
Caribbean
131
A110
26 Apr 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
106
A120
2 Sep 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
110
A202/A
20/21 Jan 2012
15
Caribbean
131
A111
12 May 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
107
A121
18 Sep 2011
9
Spain, Portugal, Morocco
85
A203/A
3/4 Feb 2012
15
Caribbean
132
A112
28 May 2011
7
Fjords
80
A122
27 Sep 2011
17
Central Mediterranean
112
A204/A
17/18 Feb 2012
15
Caribbean
133
A113
4 Jun 2011
14
Baltic
149
A123
14 Oct 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
100
A205/A
2/3 Mar 2012
15
Caribbean
133
A114
18 Jun 2011
15
Iceland & Fjords
155
A124/A
28 Oct 2011
15/16
Caribbean Transatlantic
126
A206/A
Caribbean Transatlantic
134
A115
3 Jul 2011
12
Baltic
150
A125/A 11/12 Nov 2011
15
Caribbean
127
A116
15 Jul 2011
7
France, Spain & Ireland
82
A126/A 25/26 Nov 2011
15
Caribbean
127
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
E107
28 Mar 2011
12
Canary Islands
140
E118
9 Jul 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
93
E129
26 Oct 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
100
E108
9 Apr 2011
7
France & Spain
78
E119
23 Jul 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
95
E130
9 Nov 2011
12
Canary Islands
143
E109
16 Apr 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
91
E120
6 Aug 2011
7
Guernsey, France & Spain
83
E131
21 Nov 2011
24
Eastern Mediterranean
119
E110
30 Apr 2011
7
Fjords
79
E121
13 Aug 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
96
E132
15 Dec 2011
12
Canary Islands
144 145
Azura Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
16/17 Mar 2012 14/13
Destinations
Page
Fourth Edition March 2011 - March 2012
Aurora
Welcome I
Fourth Edition March 2011 - March 2012
...from Carol Marlow, Managing DireCtor, P&o Cruises
Holidays from £90
60°59’09”W
We are passionate about the holiday experience we offer and the ships in our fleet. However, we understand that for those who have not yet had the opportunity to experience a cruise, the concept can seem a little mysterious. With this in mind, our new look brochure reads a lot less like a brochure and a lot more like a magazine. You’ll still find every one of our enticing holidays detailed inside, but you can also lose yourself in articles by guest writers who bring their own perspective on cruising, and P&O Cruises in particular, as well as discovering more about the destinations you can visit from travel writer experts who know each region well. You’ll also see an easy-to-use chart on pages 14-15, which compares the facilities on each of our ships, so it is even easier to decide which is the best ship to meet your needs.
per person per night
Happy reading! With kind regards
Oceana
E111
7 May 2011
2
Belgium
76
E122
27 Aug 2011
7
Fjords
84
E133
27 Dec 2011
12
Canary Islands
E112
9 May 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
92
E123
3 Sep 2011
2
Belgium
76
E201
8 Jan 2012
35
Caribbean & USA No Fly
137
E113
23 May 2011
12
Canary Islands
141
E124
5 Sep 2011
12
Canary Islands
142
E202
12 Feb 2012
14
Canary Islands
145
E114
4 Jun 2011
7
Guernsey, France & Spain
80
E125
17 Sep 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
97
E203
26 Feb 2012
24
Eastern Mediterranean
121
E115
11 Jun 2011
7
Fjords
80
E126
1 Oct 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
98
E204
21 Mar 2012
14
Western Mediterranean
101
E116
18 Jun 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
92
E127
15 Oct 2011
2
Belgium
76
E117
2 Jul 2011
7
Spain, Portugal & France
81
E128
17 Oct 2011
9
Spain, Portugal, Morocco
85
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
X103
20 Mar 2011
10
Canary Islands
140
X110
21 Jun 2011
14
North Cape & Fjords
156
X117
27 Sep 2011
34
Caribbean & USA No Fly
136
X104
30 Mar 2011
17
Central Mediterranean
106
X111
5 Jul 2011
17
Central Mediterranean
108
X118
31 Oct 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
113
X105
16 Apr 2011
17
Central Mediterranean
106
X112
22 Jul 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
109
X119
30 Nov 2011
3
Belgium & France
77
X106
3 May 2011
17
Western Mediterranean
91
X113
7 Aug 2011
12
Baltic
151
X120
3 Dec 2011
14
Canary Islands
144
Page
X107
20 May 2011
14
Baltic
149
X114
19 Aug 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
110
X121
17 Dec 2011
2
Belgium
76
X108
3 Jun 2011
2
Belgium
76
X115
4 Sep 2011
7
Spain, Portugal & France
84
X122
19 Dec 2011
17
Western Mediterranean
101
X109
5 Jun 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
108
X116
11 Sep 2011
16
Central Mediterranean
112
Page
Ventura Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
Page
Voyage
Dep.
Nights
Destinations
N106
25 Mar 2011
2
Belgium
76
N117
2 Jul 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
93
N128/A
4/5 Nov 2011
15
Caribbean
126
N107
27 Mar 2011
12
Western Mediterranean
90
N118
16 Jul 2011
7
Fjords
82
N129/A
18/19 Nov 2011
15
Caribbean
127
N108
8 Apr 2011
3
Belgium & France
77
N119
23 Jul 2011
7
France & Spain
82
N130/A
2/3 Dec 2011
15
Caribbean
128
N109
11 Apr 2011
11
Canary Islands
140
N120
30 Jul 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
95
N131/A
16/17 Dec 2011
15
Caribbean
128
N110
22 Apr 2011
7
Spain & France
78
N121
13 Aug 2011
7
Fjords
83
N131B/C
16/17 Dec 2011
29
Caribbean
129
N1 11
29 Apr 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
91
N122
20 Aug 2011
14
Western Mediterranean
96
N132/A
30/31 Dec 2011
15
Caribbean
129
N112
13 May 2011
7
Fjords
79
N123
3 Sep 2011
12
Western Mediterranean
97
N201/A
13/14 Jan 2012
15
Caribbean
131
N113
20 May 2011
7
Spain, Portugal & France
79
N124
15 Sep 2011
12
Canary Islands
142
N202/A
27/28 Jan 2012
15
Caribbean
132
N114
27 May 2011
17
Central Mediterranean
107
N125
27 Sep 2011
12
Western Mediterranean
98
N203/A
10/11 Feb 2012
15
Caribbean
132
N115
13 Jun 2011
12
Canary Islands
141
N126
9 Oct 2011
12
Canary Islands
142
N204/A
24/25 Feb 2012
15
Caribbean
133
N116
25 Jun 2011
7
Fjords
81
N127/A
21 Oct 2011
15/16
Caribbean Transatlantic
126
N205/A
9/10 Mar 2012
14/13
Caribbean Transatlantic
134
Fly-cruise
Christmas/New Year cruise
Carnival House, 100 Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1ST Reservations: 0845 3 555 333 (calls charged at local rate) Facsimile: 023 8065 7030 ABTA No.V8764 Internet: www.pocruises.co.uk
7ships visiting 270 destinations in 90 countries
Oriana Destinations
’m delighted to be able to present our largest programme to date featuring 156 holidays and seven beautiful ships. Throughout the year we’ll visit the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Canary Islands, Baltic, Fjords, Greenland, Iceland, America, Canada, Alaska and closer to home, Britain. We have year round cruising from Southampton for the first time on Oceana and in 2011 we’ll introduce Adonia to the fleet. Her maiden season brings fly-cruises to the Central and Eastern Mediterranean (with calls into the Holy Land), as well as a choice of cruises sailing roundtrip from Southampton.
PASSENGER SHIPPING ASSOCIATION MEMBER
FOR TRAVEL AGENTS USE ONLY: Book Online at: www.completecruisesolution.com Also available via Amadeus Cruise Online Helpdesk: 0845 355 3055 Email: online.helpdesk@carnivalukgroup.com C943 Published April 2010
2 - 72 night cruises
Sailing from Southampton
2 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
The NexT STeP P&O CRUISeS
P&O CRUISeS DeSTINATIONS
How to book your holiday
FjordS, ICElAnd And GrEEnlAnd highlights; Ny Alesund, North Cape, Reykjavik, Nuuk, honningsvaag
When you are ready to book, please ensure that you have the following information to hand: AroUnd BrItAIn highlights: edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Dublin, Newcastle
BAltIC highlights: St Petersburg, helsinki, Stockholm, Tallinn, Copenhagen
1. Cruise number/date
4. Dates of birth
8. Travel insurance details
2. Preferred stateroom type
5. Address details
9. Any special requirements
6. Flight & hotel requirements
10. Mobility information
7. Dining choice request
11. Celebrations and gifts
If travelling on Azura, please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to opt for the Spa Stateroom Package.
3. Passenger names (as they appear on passport) USA, CAnAdA And AlASkA highlights: New York, Boston, San Francisco, Quebec, Juneau
CrUISE BrEAkS highlights: Bruges, Lisbon, Bilbao, Alesund, Bergen
CEntrAl MEdItErrAnEAn highlights: Venice, Dubrovnik, Korcula, Corfu, Cephalonia
WEStErn MEdItErrAnEAn highlights: Barcelona, Rome, Florence, Pisa, Monte Carlo
EAStErn MEdItErrAnEAn highlights: Athens, Istanbul, Cairo, haifa, Odessa
CAnAry ISlAndS highlights: Tenerife, Lanzarote, La Palma, Gran Canaria, Madeira
Booking a cruise couldn’t be easier. Once you’ve decided which cruise you’d like to travel on, simply book in one of these ways:
ONLINE at www.pocruises.co.uk Available 24 hours a day; follow the user-friendly steps and book from the comfort of your home
CArIBBEAn highlights: Antigua, St Lucia, St Kitts, Dominica, Tortola
BY PHONE ON 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
Monday – Friday: 8.00am – 8.00pm Saturday: 9.00am – 5.00pm Sunday: 10.00am - 4.00pm
Call into your local travel agent to discuss your holiday requirements
Calls are charged at local rate and may be recorded for training purposes
Once you’ve booked Paying the balance of your fare P&O Cruises must receive the balance of your fare nolater than 56 days before departure from the UK. If it is not received by P&O Cruises by the due date we reserve the right to end the contract between us and re-sell the accommodation held for you, which will also result in the forfeiture of your deposit. Your final balance can be taken from the credit or debit card used to pay your deposit. We only accept Visa/Delta debit cards. We do not accept Switch or Maestro. If you would prefer to pay by cheque please make it payable to P&O Cruises and send it to: Cruise Payments, P&O Cruises, PO Box 1306, Southampton SO14 3ZG
270 DESTINATIONS IN 90 cOuNTrIES As you can see, our ships literally travel the world. If there’s a part of the world you’ve always wanted to visit, or you’re just seeking inspiration, this guide is designed to help you quickly find the pages that could contain the perfect cruise for you.
Cruise Breaks
Caribbean
USA, Canada & Alaska
Western Mediterranean
Canary Islands
Around Britain
Central Mediterranean
Baltic
Eastern Mediterranean
Fjords, Iceland & Greenland
2 – 9 night cruises Pages 72- 85 10 – 17 night cruises Pages 86 - 101
14 – 21 night cruises Pages 102 - 115
14 – 26 night cruises Pages 116 – 121
3 WWW.POCRUISeS.CO.UK
13 – 35 night cruises Pages 122 - 137 10 – 15 night cruises Pages 138 - 145
10 – 72 night cruises Pages 158 - 167 12 – 13 night cruises Pages 168 - 169
Once you have made your booking the following will happen: • We will send you a Booking Confirmation showing your cruise details, stateroom booked and fare payable. This shows the date the final balance is due. Please check this carefully. • Approximately 12 weeks before your cruise visit www.pocruises.co.uk/cruisepersonaliser to reserve your shore excursions. Choose from an exciting range of excursions so that you make the most of your time in each port. • Around 7 weeks before departure you will receive ‘Your holiday information’ brochure. There is also an option to view and print this information at www.pocruises.co.uk/cruisepersonaliser • We are required to collect mandatory immigration information required by immigration authorities, which must be provided prior to your cruise. This is the essential information that we need to know before you travel. You can complete this information online at www.pocruises.co.uk/cruisepersonaliser.
• Your travel documentation will be available via Cruise Personaliser around 2-3 weeks before you travel. Deposits When you are happy with the accommodation offered and the fare quoted you will be given a booking reference number. You will then need to pay the deposit of 10% per person. For bookings made within 56 days of departure, the full balance will be due. For passengers booking direct with P&O Cruises, deposits are only payable by credit or debit card. We only accept Delta debit cards. We do not accept Switch or Maestro. Deposits are not returnable in the case of cancellation but may be recoverable subject to the terms and conditions of your travel insurance. Please note that passengers under the age of eighteen must travel with a parent or companion over the age of twenty one.
12 – 16 night cruises Pages 146 – 151 14 – 18 night cruises Pages 152 - 157
243
Why P&O Cruises? We are Britain’s Number One
Favourite Cruise Company 2010
A holiday at sea is quite unlike any other; the world’s most amazing sights and experiences are brought to your door and your ship becomes a part of your holiday like no ordinary hotel ever could. P&O Cruises has been perfecting the art of cruising for over 170 years and we are delighted that more British passengers choose to travel with us than any other cruise line (we’ve once again been voted Britain’s Favourite Cruise Company*). A familiar home from home atmosphere can be enjoyed on each of our ships, which is a result of our tailored entertainment, menus and style of service, all of which are tuned to the tastes of our British passengers.
Destinations In 2011 there are 156 cruise holidays to choose from visiting 270 of the world’s most wonderful destinations in 90 countries, more than any other British cruise line. Our Southampton departures offer the ultimate stress free way to start your holiday and if you would prefer to join your ship in the sun, you can rest assured that we are experts in fly cruising to the Caribbean and have this year added the option of fly cruising to the Mediterranean.
Ships, not resorts Our passengers tell us that there is something special about being on board one of our ships and unlike many other cruise lines, our passion for exploring the world by sea and all those nautical traditions that go with it are very much a part of a P&O Cruises holiday. Perhaps it is seeing the officers and crew around the ship as they delight in sharing your experiences, or enjoying the great traditions of cruising like afternoon tea and silver service dining or simply watching the world go by from your private balcony; we understand how to make the stresses and strains of everyday life seem very far away. For a real insight into life on board a P&O Cruises ship see James Cusick’s blog at www.pocruises.com/blog
We like to give you choice How you enjoy your holiday is completely up to you; whether you choose a family-friendly ship or one that is exclusively for adults. We offer an incredible choice of shore excursions to help you make the most of your time ashore and, when on board, you will find your ship has everything you would expect from a very modern holiday; a first class spa and gym; a dazzling choice of bars and restaurants; cinemas; theatres with shows every evening; dancing and cabaret lounges; shops; libraries and even golf simulators. Whilst each ship has different things to offer, whichever you choose, attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere are guaranteed. To find out more about the 7 ships in the fleet and their full facilities see pages 14 - 15.
You, at your best From the friendly greeting you receive as you step on board, to the Captain’s gala dinner where the entire ship dresses up to the nines, or from a child’s birthday party where Noddy is the special guest, to a romantic dinner for two at a Marco Pierre White restaurant, everything about a P&O Cruises holiday will leave you feeling simply at your best. This feeling is not reserved for birthdays and anniversaries (although we make these rather special as well) it can be found in everything we do, even how your bar steward remembers your favourite tipple, it’s simply how time at sea should be.
Incredible value Many of our cruises cost the equivalent of £90† per person per night and include accommodation, dining and all other meals on board, plus a host of daytime and evening entertainment. Our holidays are priced in Pounds Sterling, as are shore excursions and any additional items you choose to purchase on board, so unfavourable exchange rates needn’t affect you. Writer Jeremy Skidmore gives you an idea of the value of cruising on page 8 along with a complete guide to what’s included in your holiday fare. *Travel Weekly Globe Awards 2010 (as voted by readers of the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday) † £90 per person per night price is subject to availability and based on two sharing the lowest grade stateroom available on selected cruises.
To discover more about the 7 ships in the P&O Cruises fleet and the facilities they each offer turn to page 14. For full contents see overleaf.
5
92
90
P&O CRUISES CONTENTS
Guest contributors DermOt murNaghaN Dermot, presenter of Sky News Today, joined Sky News from the BBC where he has fronted BBC Breakfast since September 2002.
126
44
40
JeremY SkIDmOre Jeremy has been a journalist for over 20 years, contributing to many national newspapers including The Telegraph and The Times. WeNDY gOmerSall Wendy writes for publications including The Mail on Sunday, the Scotsman magazine and News of the World’s Fabulous magazine. alISON Pratt Alison has travelled extensively and written for a number of well-known publications, from broadsheet travel supplements to Car magazine. PhIl DavIeS Phil is editor of online travel news service www.travelmole.com. He also contributes to the Daily Telegraph and Daily Express.
13
lISa JameS Lisa James has cruised the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Alaska, the Galapagos and Chile, both for work and pleasure. CarOlINe heNDrIe Caroline is a regular contributor to The Times and The Mail on Sunday amongst others. Peter FraNzeN OBe Peter Franzen OBE recently retired as Editor of the Eastern Daily Press, but continues to write on his two favourite subjects - travel and motoring. marIa harDINg Maria has roamed the world, filing travel stories for the BBC Radio Four, The Times, The Daily Telegraph and many other publications. lIz BIrD Liz Bird is a freelance travel journalist who writes for national newspapers such as The Daily Express, The Times and The Observer. ClaIre gervat 14 years ago Claire changed career from city trader to travel writer and now specialises in covering Europe and the Mediterranean. CathY vINe With a wealth of experience writing for newspapers and magazines, Cathy’s expertise includes islands of the world, the Middle East and UK-based breaks. PhIlIP DODD He may be co-writer of acclaimed travel bible ‘The Book of Cities’, but travel writing is just one string on Philip’s bow, he’s also a successful author, publisher and editor. 6 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
60 a marriage made at sea
the value of cruising
38
Getting married at sea is a wonderfully romantic affair explains Lisa Hatfull, who recently got married on Oriana
Features
Sea food 8
40
We introduce you to some of the different restaurant styles available across our fleet
Jeremy Skidmore explains why cruising is such good value for money
Sailing with the family
It’s what’s on the inside that counts
Dermot Murnaghan gives you an insight into cruising with a young family alongside useful family holiday information
10
We give you a detailed 3D look inside Azura
Welcome to our fleet of ships
13
Commodore Burgoine outlines the differences between our seven ships with our ship comparison guide
Dressing up for sundown
Your questions answered
Suite dreams
30
32
Carol Marlow, Managing Director, has penned responses to some frequently asked questions
44
48
Find out more about each of the different styles of staterooms we offer
morning, noon and night
Knowing what to wear on a cruise made simple with a detailed look at our dress codes
18
50
Discover the numerous ways you can spend a relaxing day at sea
Cruising, a musical affair
53
the story of P&O Cruises
58
Find out how our past has shaped the company we are today
gary rhodes
60
top 10 ways to stay healthy
Where life’s a beach
62
Your ship can be a haven for wellbeing, take a look at our top 10 tips on how to stay healthy on board
Spoilt for choice in a floating spa
64
Nature’s finest
atul kochhar
Follow that bride
68
Phil Davies gets to know the ‘master of spices’ and hears all about the style of food he offers on Azura
getting to your ship
70
a day like no other
take a break
On the waterfront
5 reasons to book a shore excursion
viva españa
Alison Pratt went behind the scenes at rehearsals for Headliners, P&O Cruises very own theatre company
Discover our top five reasons to book a shore excursion
57
Discover some of Caroline Hendrie’s favourite ways to spend a day in Barcelona
86
146
Hot on the tail of a wedding party brings good fortune claims Maria Harding – the good fortune of seeing some of St. Petersburg’s best sights that is!
Fire and Ice
Bright young things
138
When Mother Nature created the Canary Islands, she used every trick in the book, as Claire Gervat discovers
Music Festivals at Sea have long been a feature on our calendar, discover what we have in store for 2011
72
122
From silver white sands to awesome surf, the shores of the Caribbean are simply unbeatable says Philip Dodd
Wendy Gomersall succumbs to pure relaxation in the Oasis Spa and introduces you to the experience and treatments on offer
There’s something about a cruise, even a short one that refreshes a part of the soul that other holidays just don’t reach, says Lisa James
36
116
From atmospheric ancient bazaars to world-class malls, Istanbul is a shoppers’ paradise, says Liz Bird
Today’s excursions are perfect for the independently minded among you. Find out about some of the different styles of excursion available
34
a buyer’s market
Gary gives Phil Davies an insight into how he and his staff work culinary magic on board Arcadia & Oriana
Whether you’re cruising from Southampton or opt for one of our fly-cruises, we explain how getting to your ship is easy
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Caroline Hendrie takes a tour of Venice by water, well, when in Venice...
Speaking to Phil Davies, Marco Pierre White describes how a 50p bus ride started his glittering career
marco Pierre White
a spectacular water world
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Peter Franzen OBE explores the link between the stunning fjords of Norway and Iceland’s lava fields
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Nothing sets a city off better than the reflection of all its best bits in its own harbour – Philip Dodd explains
Beautiful Britain
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A circumnavigation of the British Isles reveals that some of the most beautiful sights are close to home, as Cathy Vine explains
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The holidays Cruise Breaks the Western mediterranean the Central mediterranean the eastern mediterranean & Black Sea the Caribbean the Canary Islands the Baltic the Fjords, greenland & Iceland the uSa, Canada and alaska around Britain
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Staterooms and deck plans ventura Oceana azura arcadia aurora Oriana adonia
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Further information a-z port gazetteer Child and single supplements You might like to know You need to know travel insurance Booking conditions World’s leading cruise lines how to book
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7
P&O CRUISES VALUE FOR MONEY
The
value of cruising by Jeremy Skidmore
“Isn’t it really expensive to go on one of those?” is the question I’m most often asked by friends when I tell them I’m going on a cruise.
Many years ago, that might have been the case. But, incredibly, these days cruising is just about the best value holiday it is possible to buy. I’ve written about travel for over 20 years and, in addition to a healthy suntan, it’s given me a unique insight into the value of cruising compared with land-based holidays. One of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing a holiday is to look at the headline price and opt for the cheapest deal. But the real cost of a holiday is your total outlay on the trip, including spending money. On those cheap deals you can shell out a fortune on everything from food to entertainment. By comparison, virtually everything you need on your holiday is included in the price of a cruise. Where do I start? The food, of course. Breakfast, lunch and dinner in silver-service restaurants are included as are meals and snacks in the buffet restaurants, grills and pizzerias. There’s no extra charge for the daily afternoon tea of sandwiches, cakes and pastries, which is a meal in itself. When I first started cruising, I couldn’t believe the amount of food available on ships, although it is amazing how much you can eat when tempting treats are constantly put in front of you. These days, of course, there are healthy options for just about every course but it is, literally, impossible to go hungry on a ship.
8 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
Welcome to our fleet of ships Our unique P&O Cruises experience can be enjoyed on each of our seven ships, yet subtle differences exist both on board and in the regions to which they sail, so this overview of the P&O Cruises fleet should help you to choose the right ship for you and your travel companions.
Choose your P&O Cruises ship...
AzurA
VEnTurA
oCEAnA
ArCAdiA
For a small cover charge (typically ranging from £5 to £30 per person), you can eat in a restaurant created by a Michelin-star chef such as Marco Pierre White, Gary rhodes or Atul Kochhar.
shows that would not look out of place in the West End of London. There’s also comedy and cabaret, live music, dancing, tribute bands and cinema screenings – all at no extra cost.
i’m often asked why you would bother. Aren’t the silver service restaurants adequate? Yes, they are more than adequate, with a wide choice of courses and excellent service. But sometimes you fancy something a little bit different, in an intimate atmosphere.
But don’t worry if you don’t fancy any of that. Just listing everything that you can do on board can leave you exhausted, but the beauty is that you can dip in and out, doing as little or as much as you want.
With all that food, holidaymakers naturally worry that they’ll put on weight, but whenever i’ve been on a cruise, i’ve actually gone home fitter than when i left.
Commodore Steve Burgoine
of course, you can lie on deck all day reading a book and sipping cocktails. But i get itchy feet in the afternoon, my competitive spirit kicks in and i can’t resist the temptation to join in various games of football or basketball on deck. And to prepare for a big night out – or rather a big night in on the ship – the gym is a world away from the one i use at home. it’s got the same state-ofthe-art equipment, but instead of staring at a blank wall i can work out overlooking the ocean. it’s not a great hardship.
AurorA
oriAnA
Every night on a ship can be a big night. There may have been some questionable entertainment in years gone by, but now the ships’ theatres host
AdoniA
VENTURA
OCEANA
AzURA
ARCADIA
AURORA
ORIANA
ADONIA
115,000 3,078 1,226
77,000 2,016 870
115,000 3,100 1,226
83,700 2,016 880
76,000 1,870 850
69,000 1,828 800
30,200 710 300
2008
2002
2010
2005
2000
1995
2001
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Two night cruises Three & four night cruises
Week long cruises (norwegian Fjords & Southern Europe)
Gross tonnage Passengers Crew Year ship first entered service Passenger decks
i have to confess that i don’t have children, so i haven’t been into the children’s clubs and nurseries. But families i speak to on board say they are the best thing about their holiday. Their children love them and they get a much needed break. it would be wrong not to mention the comfortable staterooms, with their Egyptian cotton bed linen and the tea and coffee making facilities. But the best part is having your own personal steward. You don’t get everything included in the price of a cruise. You’ll need to budget for a few added extras, such as drinks, spa treatments and excursions. But they are priced in pounds sterling, which allow you to easily keep a handle on how much you’re spending, and means you won’t be subject to temperamental exchange rates. So, is cruising really expensive? Frankly, it’s the bargain of the century.
WHAT’s INCLUDED IN YOUR FARE: ON BOARD z All meals in the silver-service main restaurants, buffet restaurants and daytime grills z daytime activities, including the sports court, whirlpool spas, pools, fully equipped gym and sauna z Evening entertainment featuring live comedy, theatre, nightclubs and cinema IN THE sTATEROOMs z En suite air-conditioned accommodation z Personal steward z Pamper packs z Tea and coffee facilities FOR THE FAMILY On Ventura, Azura, Oceana, Oriana† & Aurora z dedicated age specific children’s clubs z night nursery for the under 5s z discounted children’s fares and in some cases free child places GENERAL z Flights for our Caribbean fly-cruises z Air and/or sea fuel supplements z All uK and overseas port taxes † oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
DEsTINATIONs
Western Mediterranean Central Mediterranean Eastern Mediterranean Holy Land Caribbean Baltic
norway, iceland & Greenland uSA, Canada & Alaska Around Britain Canary islands World cruises
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‘it’s what’s on the inside that counts’
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This 3D plan gives you the opportunity to get a feel for what you’ll find on board one of our larger ships (you’re looking at the inside of Azura). You’ll find a detailed plan of each of the ship’s features overleaf. AZURA DAYS
AZURA DINING
AZURA NIGHTS
AZURA WELL-BEING
01. Java A coffee shop and bar serving light snacks throughout the day
13. Sindhu Atul Kochhar’s restaurant offering a full menu and selection of Nashta (Indian tapas)
20. The Blue Bar A vibrant bar overlooking the Atrium
30. Gym Fully equipped ocean-view gym
14. Seventeen Classic fine dining room
21. Brodie’s A contemporary British bar with a nod to classic London pubs
31. Sports Court Play all kinds of team games on the sports court
15. The Glass House Wine bar and restaurant in association with Olly Smith
22. Atrium Music, dancing and special events will take place in the heart of the ship at night
33. Oasis Pool Exclusive access heated pool
16. Verona Buffet restaurant with waiter service in the evening
23. Malabar Modern Indian themed lounge where you’ll find cabaret, trios and quartets and elegant dancing
03. The Library Inviting library and bookshop 04. Shops Discover shops dedicated to clothing, gifts, jewellery, books and every day items 05. The Gallery A collection of art for purchase or simply to admire
17. Venezia Main buffet restaurant. Open 24 hours
06. Photo Gallery Formal portraits, informal pictures and destination images
18. The Peninsular Restaurant, The Oriental Restaurant and The Meridian Restaurant Formal silver-service retsaurants
07. Children’s Clubs Age specific clubs from tots to teenagers
19. Poolside Pizzeria Pizzas and ice cream available during the day
08. Aqua Pool & Bar Relax in and around the pool 09. Coral Pool & Bar Sunbathe around the pool and enjoy a drink
25. SeaScreen Open air cinema showing the latest blockbusters 26. The Planet Bar Features an audiovisual wall showing dramatic footage of the manmade and natural wonders of the world
34. The Oasis Spa Ocean-view treatment rooms where you can enjoy spa treatments 35. The Retreat Exclusive open air spa terrace 36. Thermal Suite Featuring steam rooms, saunas, aromatic showers and ceramic loungers 37. The Promenade Deck Walk or run the length of the ship
28. The Playhouse 802 seat theatre spanning two decks 29. Stylish Staterooms A wide range of accommodation including inside and outside staterooms (both available as single rooms) balcony staterooms, spa staterooms and butler-serviced suites
11. Breakers Bar Enjoy a drink in the sunshine overlooking the Coral Pool 12. Game On! A family-friendly gaming room with the latest techonolgy Page 11
24. Manhattan Show lounge where you’ll find live bands, comedians and late night dancing
32. Golf nets Practice your swing in the golf nets
27. Casino Featuring gaming tables and slot machines
10. Terrace Pool & Bar Watch the wake disappear into the distance from the terrace
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AZURA AT A GLANCE
02. Atrium Spanning three decks and over 30 feet, and with a dance floor, this is the heart of the ship
Take a look inside a P&O Cruises ship
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VENTURA
OCEANA
AZURA
ARCADIA
AURORA
ORIANA
ADONIA
contemporary
contemporary
contemporary
contemporary 4 formal 4 semi-formal 6 smart casual
classic
classic
4 formal 4 semi-formal 6 smart casual
4 formal 4 semi-formal 6 smart casual
classic 4 formal 4 semi-formal 6 smart casual
3 Atul Kochhar 2 2 24 hours
2 Gary Rhodes 1 1 24 hours
2 Marco Pierre White 1 1 24 hours
2 Gary Rhodes 1 1 24 hours
2
1 3 6
Hydropool 2* 5
Paddling pool 3* 4
Paddling pool 3 5
nets 3
LIFE ON BOARD Style of decor Exclusively for adults
4 formal 10 smart casual
Typical evening dress codes** (based on 14 night cruise)
4 formal 10 smart casual
4 formal 4 semi-formal 6 smart casual
†
DINING Flexible dining in silver service restaurants (Freedom Dining) Fixed dining times in silver service restaurants (Club Dining) Alternative restaurants 3 2 Celebrity chef restaurants Marco Pierre White Marco Pierre White Poolside restaurants 2 2 Buffet restaurants 2 1 Room service 24 hours 24 hours
1 1 24 hours
DAYTIME ACTIVITIES Shallow pools Swimming pools Whirlpool spas Hosted deck games Wi-fi in selected areas Wi-fi throughout Cinema Library Bookshop Card room with hosted tournaments Cyb@study Art gallery Spa Gymnasium Sports court Sauna/steam room Golf nets/simulator Dance classes Shops
1 3* 6
2 2 6
in theatre
in theatre
outdoor
1 1 2
Including thermal Including thermal including thermal suite and outdoor suite suite spa terrace nets nets and simulator nets nets nets and simulator 6 4 7 4 4
nets 2
ENTERTAINMENT VENUES Theatre Pub Bars Show lounge Casino Nightclub
788 seats 12
550 seats 12
788 seats 12
736 seats 13
652 seats 13
674 seats 11
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FAMILY ACTIVITIES Age specific children's club Circus school Bungee trampolines Interactive games room Night nursery Rock school
SPECIAL OCCASIONS Weddings at sea
Renewal of vows
* 1 pool with retractable roof ** For more details of dress codes see page 30 † Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website. Page 15
P&O CRUISES VENTURA
Ventura Family-friendly larger ship
Ventura and Azura are the largest ships in the P&O Cruises fleet and on board Ventura you’ll find an incredible choice of facilities. From bars, restaurants, a sports court, spa and theatre, Ventura also has a number of exciting features that are exclusively hers. Ventura’s signature restaurant is The White Room by none other than Marco Pierre White himself. But there are also 11 other restaurants to tempt you including a tapas bar and restaurant, a stunning Asian restaurant and a choice of Club Dining – the same table at the same time each evening, and Freedom Dining – no fixed seating or dining times. Ventura is a highly entertaining ship. A theatre with full production shows doubles as a cinema, she has two lounges for cabaret, tributes, comedy and dancing and even Metropolis, an amazing bar with a panoramic video wall brought to life by a different city skyline each evening. She also has great sports facilities, a well equipped gym and spa, a large sports court and 4 pools (one with a retractable roof). In fact, Ventura is very family-friendly. In addition to fantastic children’s clubs and a play area for under 2s, there’s a circus skills school on top deck, Rock School, where teens can shred guitar, and Noddy and Mr. Bump from the Mr. Men Show are regular visitors. She even has a 24 hour buffet restaurant so the only routines you need to keep are your own.
Ventura – 115,000 tons, 3,078 passengers and 1,226 crew
Daytime dining
Enrichment
❚ Main restaurants – Bay Tree, Saffron and Cinnamon ❚ Buffet restaurants – The Beach House and Waterside ❚ Frankie’s – grill, pizzeria and ice-cream parlour ❚ Ramblas – Spanish tapas ❚ Tazzine – café ❚ The White Room - Italian created by Marco Pierre White ❚ 24 hour room service
❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
Evening dining ❚ Main restaurants – Bay Tree, Saffron and Cinnamon ❚ The White Room – Italian created by Marco Pierre White ❚ Ramblas – Spanish tapas ❚ East – Oriental restaurant ❚ Waterside – buffet restaurant ❚ The Beach House – waiter service American diner
Wellbeing
Library and bookshop Cyb@study Art gallery Art collection of 7,000 pieces Photo gallery Shops
Entertainment and bars ❚ Arena theatre ❚ Metropolis with 20m plasma video wall ❚ Havana show lounge ❚ The Red Bar ❚ The Tamarind Club for comedy and live music ❚ The Exchange (English pub) ❚ Fortunes casino ❚ Deck bars
Dress Code Typical evening dress codes (based on 14 night cruise) ❚ 4 formal ❚ 10 smart casual
❚ Gymnasium ❚ Oasis Spa with endless pool and thermal suite ❚ Salon ❚ 4 pools, 1 with skydome and 6 whirlpool spas ❚ Sports court ❚ Golf nets You can find out more about your dining options on page 40. To see stateroom and deck plans turn to page 170. For dress codes turn to page 30. 16 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
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P&O CRUISES OCEANA
Oceana
Family-friendly mid-sized ship Oceana is a mid-sized ship with a particularly stunning atrium that creates a real ‘wow’. Her bars, restaurants, shops and lounges have been designed to flow seamlessly through the ship and this makes for a sociable and informal atmosphere. Bars are a feature on Oceana. There is Magnums – a lively Champagne bar, Winners’ – the funky midships bar and the Yacht and Compass – a traditional English pub. Oceana also has a dedicated nightclub. For dining, Oceana offers a choice when it comes to the main restaurants of both Club (fixed dining times) and Freedom dining (no fixed dining times). She also has several other restaurants to try; a bistro by Marco Pierre White and al fresco dining on deck at the Horizon Grill for great steaks and seafood. Oceana has broad decks with 4 sparkling pools and 6 whirlpools to enjoy during the day and even has a sports court ingeniously housed in her funnel. The gym and spa are well appointed and within easy reach, as is the golf simulator. Oceana’s welcoming and informal atmosphere makes her particularly popular with families.
Daytime dining ❚ Main restaurants – Adriatic and Ligurian ❚ The Plaza – buffet restaurant ❚ Sundaes ice cream bar ❚ Café Jardin – bistro created by Marco Pierre White ❚ Horizon Grill – al fresco grill restaurant ❚ Tiffany’s lounge ❚ 24 hour room service
Evening dining ❚ Main restaurants – Adriatic and Ligurian ❚ Café Jardin – bistro created by Marco Pierre White ❚ Horizon Grill – al fresco grill restaurant ❚ The Plaza – buffet restaurant
Wellbeing
Oceana – 77,000 tons, 2,016 passengers and 870 crew
❚ Gymnasium ❚ Oasis Spa and salon ❚ 4 pools and 6 whirlpool spas ❚ Sauna ❚ Sports court ❚ Golf simulator and golf nets ❚ Table tennis
Enrichment ❚ Library ❚ Cyb@study ❚ Photo gallery ❚ Shops
Entertainment and bars ❚ Footlights theatre ❚ Le Club nightclub ❚ Magnums champagne bar ❚ Monte Carlo Club casino ❚ Winners’ bar ❚ Explorers bar ❚ Starlights show lounge ❚ Yacht and Compass bar ❚ Deck bars
Dress Code Typical evening dress codes (based on 14 night cruise) ❚ 4 formal ❚ 10 smart casual Oceana will adopt the semi-formal dress code for cruises E129-E204 when dress codes will become 4 formal, 4 semi formal and 6 smart casual on a 14 night cruise. You can find out more about your dining options on page 40. To see stateroom and deck plans turn to page 176. For dress codes turn to page 30. 18 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
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P&O CRUISES AZURA
Azura
Family-friendly larger ship
Azura and Ventura are the largest ships in the P&O Cruises fleet. Both offer an incredible choice of bars, restaurants, sports and spa facilities and entertainment, plus lots of other exciting and unique features. At the heart of Azura is her atrium, a very social venue located over three magnificent decks, with a café, art gallery, bookshop, library and shopping. In the evenings you are invited to take your partner and dance the night away on a beautifully polished dance floor. The music and dance theme continues in The Playhouse theatre with West End style shows, and in Manhattan, Azura’s New York inspired show lounge. The Retreat is an al fresco spa terrace designed exclusively for adults, offering treatments under airy cabanas and beneath moonlit skies. Azura’s Spa Staterooms offer priority access to these facilities and for independent travellers, there’s perfectly proportioned single staterooms. On Lido Deck, SeaScreen is an open air cinema screening comedy classics, British film favourites and Hollywood blockbusters. Dining also takes centre stage on board. In addition to three main restaurants offering a choice of Club Dining – the same table at the same time each evening, and Freedom Dining – no fixed seating or dining times, there’s the opportunity to visit the Select Dining venues of Sindhu; the first restaurant at sea from Michelin star chef Atul Kochhar, Seventeen; where a sense of occasion is always on the menu, and The Glass House, a wine bar and restaurant created in partnership with TVs Olly Smith.
Azura – 115,000 tons, 3,100 passengers and 1,226 crew
Daytime dining ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
Main restaurants – The Peninsular, Oriental and Meridian Buffet restaurants – Verona and Venezia Poolside pizzeria, grill and ice cream The Glass House – with wines selected by Olly Smith Sindhu – Nashta; Indian tapas by Atul Kochhar Java café 24 hour room service
Evening dining ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
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Main restaurants – Peninsular, Oriental and Meridian Sindhu – Indian style created by Atul Kochhar The Glass House – steak and seafood grill fare with wines selected by Olly Smith Seventeen – classic fine dining Venezia – buffet restaurant Verona – waiter service Italian Trattoria
Wellbeing ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
The Retreat al fresco spa terrace Oasis Spa and Health Club with pool and thermal suite Salon 4 pools and 6 whirlpool spas Gymnasium Sports court Golf nets
Entertainment and Bars ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
SeaScreen open air cinema The Playhouse theatre The Planet Bar with 20m plasma video wall Manhattan show lounge The Blue Bar Malabar for comedy and live music Brodie’s (English pub) Casino Deck bars
Enrichment ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
Whitewall art gallery Art collection of 7,000 pieces Library and bookshop Photo gallery Shops
Dress Code Typical evening dress codes (based on 14 night cruise) ❚ 4 formal ❚ 4 semi-formal ❚ 6 smart casual You can find out more about your dining options on page 40. To see stateroom and deck plans turn to page 182. For dress codes turn to page 30. 21
P&O CRUISES ARCADIA
Arcadia
Exclusively for adults, mid-sized ship Exclusively for adults, Arcadia offers a relaxed pace, stylish surroundings and more than a hint of extravagance. Signature features such as her exterior glass-fronted lifts and expansive art collection, featuring no less than 3,000 works of art, create a sophisticated air. Take a stroll up to Sky Deck and, in addition to great views you’ll find The Orchid Bar and Orchid Restaurant, a Select Dining venue which offers immaculately presented Asian fusion dishes; a treat for the senses. In fact, foodies will be in their element on this ship, for Arcadia also features Arcadian Rhodes, an intimate and upmarket restaurant serving British fare with a modern twist, created by none other than Gary Rhodes. Arcadia has many a place to happily while away an hour or two; Caffè Vivo, The Piano Bar and The Rising Sun pub to name but a few. There are plenty of ways to keep active too, but the ultimate route to feeling great has to lie with a visit to Arcadia’s wonderful spa which includes a large hydrotherapy pool and a thermal suite complete with fragrant aromatic showers. By evening, you’ll find spellbinding shows in The Palladium theatre, a lively casino, Electra nightclub and The Globe, offering anything from comedy to live music.
Arcadia – 83,700 tons, 2,016 passengers and 880 crew Daytime dining
Entertainment and bars
❚ Main restaurants – two tier Meridian ❚ The Belvedere – buffet restaurant ❚ Neptune Grill ❚ Caffè Vivo ❚ 24 hour room service
❚ The 3 tier Palladium theatre ❚ The Orchid Bar ❚ Monte Carlo Club casino ❚ The Rising Sun pub ❚ Electra nightclub ❚ The Globe for comedy and live music ❚ The Screening Room 30 seat cinema ❚ The Crow’s Nest lounge and bar ❚ The Piano Bar ❚ Spinnaker Bar ❚ Intermezzo bar ❚ Deck bars
Evening dining ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
Main restaurants – two tier Meridian Arcadian Rhodes – British fine dining created by Gary Rhodes The Orchid – Asian fusion restaurant The Belvedere – buffet restaurant
Wellbeing ❚ Gymnasium ❚ Oasis Spa with hydropool and thermal suite ❚ Salon ❚ 2 pools, 1 with skydome and 5 whirlpool spas ❚ Sports court ❚ Golf nets
Dress Code Typical evening dress codes (based on 14 night cruise) ❚ 4 formal ❚ 4 semi-formal ❚ 6 smart casual
Enrichment ❚ Library ❚ Photo gallery ❚ Art gallery ❚ Shops ❚ The Retreat and Diversions for relaxation and classes such as pilates You can find out more about your dining options on page 40. To see stateroom and deck plans turn to page 188. For dress codes turn to page 30. 22 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
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P&O CRUISES AURORA
Aurora – 76,000 tons, 1,870 passengers and 850 crew Daytime dining ❚ The Orangery – buffet restaurant ❚ Sidewalk Café ❚ Café Bordeaux – bistro created by Marco Pierre White ❚ 24 hour room service ❚ Main restaurants – Alexandria and Medina
Evening dining ❚ Main restaurants – Alexandria and Medina ❚ Café Bordeaux – bistro created by Marco Pierre White ❚ The Pennant Grill – al fresco grill restaurant ❚ The Orangery – buffet restaurant
Wellbeing ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
Gymnasium Oasis Spa Salon 3 pools, 1 with skydome and 4 whirlpool spas Sports court Golf simulator & golf nets
Enrichment ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
Music Festivals at Sea (on selected cruises) Library, writing room and business centre Cyb@study Photo gallery Art gallery Shops Vanderbilt’s card room
Entertainment and bars ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚
Curzon Theatre The Crow’s Nest lounge and bar The Playhouse Cinema Monte Carlo Casino Masquerade nightclub Carmen’s show lounge and bar Anderson’s bar Champions sports bar Deck bars
Dress Code Typical evening dress codes (based on 14 night cruise) ❚ 4 formal ❚ 4 semi-formal ❚ 6 smart casual
Aurora
Family-friendly mid-sized ship Aurora is a mid-sized ship, instantly recognisable thanks to her elegant tiered stern. Like Oriana, Aurora is designed as a classic ocean going vessel and is therefore ideally suited to world cruising. At her heart is a Lalique-inspired waterfall which forms the centrepiece of her atrium – one of her signature features. When it comes to bars she offers a variety to suit every mood including her Crow’s Nest bar, which offers a great view of every port along the way (and the oceans in between), Champions sports bar and adjacent casino, and Anderson’s with its rather sophisticated wood panelled walls. Entertainment wise there’s the Playhouse cinema which shows recently released films, a show lounge and theatre. Her dining options include her two main restaurants, as well as a bistro by Marco Pierre White and an al fresco grill restaurant. Aurora is designed for walking or jogging with the opportunity to do just that around her circumference thanks to the broad teak promenade deck. She also welcomes families with children’s clubs and a dedicated family pool. She even has one pool which can be covered by a skydome.
You can find out more about your dining options on page 40. To see stateroom and deck plans turn to page 194. For dress codes turn to page 30. 24 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
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P&O CRUISES ORIANA
Oriana
Family-friendly† mid-sized ship With her signature tiered stern decks, Oriana is an elegant and attractive ship. She has been specifically designed to suit British tastes; the broad teak promenade and lido decks are great for sun bathing and watching the world go by; the card room and wood panelled library are ideal for relaxing in, as are the bars including the Lord’s Tavern sports bar and Anderson’s with its leather armchairs and maritime artefacts. Oriana’s signature features are a stunning atrium with a Tiffany glass ceiling, a panoramic Crow’s Nest bar and Oriana Rhodes, a restaurant by Gary Rhodes situated in the sumptuous surroundings of the Curzon Room. She also has a theatre, cinema, show lounge, nightclub and casino to ensure that entertainment is always within easy reach. Oriana plays host to our Music Festivals at Sea programme where you can experience opera, operetta, and recitals all of which are presented by well-known names from radio, television and stage. You’ll also find excellent children’s facilities with a dedicated pool, sports court and golf nets on board.
Daytime dining
Enrichment
❚ The Peninsular Restaurant ❚ Al fresco pizzeria ❚ The Conservatory – buffet restaurant ❚ Tiffany Court ❚ 24 hour room service
❚ Music Festivals at Sea (on selected cruises) ❚ Library ❚ Cyb@study ❚ Photo gallery ❚ Art gallery ❚ Shops ❚ Crichton’s card room
Evening dining
Oriana – 69,000 tons, 1,818 passengers and 800 crew
❚ Main restaurants – Peninsular and Oriental ❚ Oriana Rhodes – British fine dining created by Gary Rhodes ❚ The Terrace Grill – al fresco grill restaurant ❚ The Conservatory – buffet restaurant ❚ Al fresco pizzeria
Wellbeing ❚ Gymnasium ❚ Oasis Spa and salon ❚ 3 pools, 1 paddling pool, and 5 whirlpool spas ❚ Sports court ❚ Golf nets ❚ Football and cricket nets ❚ Deck tennis
Entertainment and bars ❚ Theatre Royal ❚ Pacific show lounge and bar ❚ The Crow’s Nest lounge and bar ❚ Deck bars ❚ Chaplin’s Cinema ❚ Lord’s Tavern bar ❚ Harlequin’s bar and nightclub ❚ Anderson’s bar ❚ Monte Carlo Club casino
Dress Code Typical evening dress codes (based on 14 night cruise) ❚ 4 formal ❚ 4 semi-formal ❚ 6 smart casual
You can find out more about your dining options on page 40. To see stateroom and deck plans turn to page 200. For dress codes turn to page 30. † Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
26 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
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P&O CRUISES ADONIA
Adonia – 30,200 tons, 710 passengers and 381 crew
Adonia
Exclusively for adults, smaller ship The smallest of our seven ships, Adonia is designed to offer a delightfully intimate cruising experience. Radiating small ship charm, she carries just 710 passengers. What this means is that in no time at all you’ll experience the cruising camaraderie that comes with being surrounded by friendly, familiar faces. And thanks to her small size, Adonia is a pathfinder ship, exploring ports the larger ships of today are unable to visit – with 75% of her staterooms featuring a balcony, the views are second to none. With wood-style panelling, a grand staircase and traditional artworks, her ambience and décor are in keeping with the traditions of cruising. Yet being a 21st century ship, (she was built in 2001) there is modernity to her detailing, all of which is beautifully crafted. Her Crow’s Nest offers far reaching views by day and live music by night and Anderson’s bar feels reassuringly British. In her grand lounge, the dance floor plays host to an elegant waltz or cha-cha-cha and its stage presents a wide range of evening entertainment, from shows to classical recitals. There is dining overlooking the wake and evenings with after dinner speakers. There is a card room with panoramic ocean views, ample sunbathing space and restaurants which include Sorrento, the Ocean Grill and six course silver-service in the elegant Pacific Ocean Dining Room. And of course being smaller, everything is just a short walk away. 28 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
Daytime dining
Enrichment
❚ Main restaurant – The Pacific Dining Room ❚ The Conservatory – buffet restaurant ❚ Pizzeria ❚ Raffles ❚ Sidewalk Cafe ❚ 24 hour room service
❚ Library and bookshop ❚ Photo gallery ❚ Cyb@centre ❚ Card room ❚ Shops
Evening dining ❚ Main restaurant – The Pacific Restaurant ❚ Sorrento – Italian restaurant ❚ Ocean Grill – al fresco grill restaurant ❚ The Conservatory – buffet restaurant
Wellbeing ❚ Oasis Spa and Health Club ❚ Salon ❚ 2 pools and 2 whirlpool spas ❚ Gymnasium ❚ Golf nets
Entertainment and bars ❚ The Curzon lounge ❚ The Crow’s Nest lounge ❚ Anderson’s bar ❚ Deck bars
Dress Code Typical evening dress codes (based on 14 night cruise) ❚ 4 formal ❚ 4 semi-formal ❚ 6 smart casual
You can find out more about your dining options on page 40. To see stateroom and deck plans turn to page 206. For dress codes turn to page 30. 29
P&o cRuISES dRESS codES
“
“
The dress code of the evening really transforms the atmosphere on board so that every night is different.
Semi-Formal Found on ARcAdIA, AuRoRA, AdonIA, AzuRA, ocEAnA* And oRIAnA For a typical two week cruise there are normally four Semi-Formal evenings. After busy days exploring new destinations ashore or relaxing days on board it’s nice to slip into something a little more elegant ready for the night ahead. And Semi-Formal evenings give you the chance to do just that, affording you the opportunity to wear a variety of stylish outfits. On Semi-Formal evenings ladies typically wear tailored trousers, smart separates or even a stylish dress, while men are in a smart shirt and trousers with a jacket, such as a blazer or sports jacket – or a suit and tie if they fancy it.
Dressing up for
sundown After unhurried days on board or adventurous days ashore, evenings at sea are always an occasion to look forward to. Just as every day brings something a little different so too does every evening, and to set the mood the dress code changes from night to night. From Formal to Semi-Formal and Smart casual, take a look at the kind of outfit options you might like to consider for each…
Formal Found on ALL oF ouR SHIPS For a typical two week cruise there are normally four formal evenings on board, whichever ship you choose to sail on. However, when it is very hot, the number of formal nights may be reduced slightly. It’s just after sunset and the mood around the decks is expectant. Couples stroll arm in arm through the atrium; friends gather for drinks before dinner and the gentle tinkling of ivories fills the air. Formal nights foster a rather special atmosphere on board, adding
a touch of glamour and a real sense of occasion to evenings at sea. Seeing an entire ship full of people transformed in their finery is quite something to behold. So, it’s time to don your tuxes and cocktail dresses and really get into the spirit. Formal nights on board are an opportunity for ladies to wear glamorous evening wear including cocktail dresses, or even a smart trouser suit. For men, a dinner jacket or tuxedo are the norm, but a dark lounge or business suit and tie can be worn as an alternative. Formal wear can be purchased on board. We apply the dress codes throughout the ship.
Smart Casual Found on ALL oF ouR SHIPS For a typical two week cruise on oceana* or Ventura there are normally ten Smart casual evenings. on Arcadia, Aurora, Adonia, Azura and oriana there are normally six Smart casual evenings. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that comes with Smart Casual evenings. The sun is dipping on the horizon, you’re sipping a cocktail at one of the deck bars without a care in the world, and your look perfectly matches y ou rw on derfull y al d i -back m ood . Stylish resort or leisurewear is ideal for Smart Casual evenings, for example casual separates or dresses for ladies and open-neck polo shirts and casual trousers (not shorts) for men. A jacket and smart trousers can be worn but are not compulsory. Smart dark denim is also fine, but not trainers, football shirts or tracksuits. The dress code is applicable to all passengers of 18 years and over. We request that on Formal or Semi-Formal evenings children wear, as a minimum, Smart Casual dress, however on these occasions dark denim is not permitted. *Oceana will adopt the Semi-Formal dress code for cruises E129–E204.
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31
P&o cRuISES YouR QuESTIonS AnSWEREd
Q
Your questions answered Carol Marlow, Managing Director, P&O Cruises
Q
Are the ships different from one another?
A
All our ships deliver P&O Cruises style and service, but as they are different sizes, the rooms and facilities do vary. Turn to page 14 for our ship comparison guide – a great tool if you need help deciding which ship to choose.
If you are new to P&o cruises or new to cruising altogether, we understand that you will have some questions about how cruising works and life on board. To help, I have penned responses to our most frequently asked questions.
Q
What’s the difference between Club, Freedom and Select Dining?
A
On all of our ships you’ll find our silver-service restaurants (the majority of our ships have more than one) and each night they present a wonderful six course menu, which is included in the price of your holiday. Club and Freedom Dining are simply terms we use to describe the different dining time options for these restaurants. Club Dining restaurants have fixed dining times; either 6.30pm or 8.30pm and there you are seated with the same people each night, which is a really lovely way to meet new friends and share your holiday adventures. You can choose which time you prefer when you book your cruise. When you arrive on board you’ll find a note in your stateroom to confirm the restaurant, dining time and table number for your cruise. Freedom Dining restaurants have flexible dining times so you can dine at a time that suits you. Freedom Dining is available on Azura, Oceana and Ventura, so if you prefer this style to the fixed dining times and are happy booking on one of these ships, then you just need to let us know at the time of booking your holiday. Whether you opt for Club or Freedom Dining you are free to dine in any of the other smaller restaurants on board (we use the term ‘Select Dining’ to describe these and they include our celebrity chef restaurants) you just need to reserve a table like you would do at any restaurant ashore. A small cover charge applies which is usually between £5 and £30 per person depending upon the restaurant. In addition to all of this, there’s a buffet restaurant open throughout the day and long into the night where you can enjoy world cuisine (this is also included in the price of your holiday). The Club, Freedom and Select restaurants all adhere to the ship’s dress code for the evening, but you are free to wear casual clothing in the buffet restaurant.
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Q
What’s the tipping etiquette?
A
I am proud to say that exceptional service is one of the things for which P&O Cruises is renowned, so when you step on board you will always receive a warm welcome and a high standard of service from every member of crew you meet along the way. And, just like tipping in a restaurant after an evening out, tipping on board is absolutely at your discretion. Envelopes are provided at Reception towards the end of your cruise if you do wish to tip crew members. As it’s your silver-service waiters and cabin steward who will look after you personally every day of your holiday, the following suggestions are for these crew members specifically. However you may, of course, wish to tip others too. As a guide, we suggest £1.50 per passenger (aged 12 and over) per day for your cabin steward, and £1.60 per passenger (aged 12 and over) per day for the silver-service waiters. If you choose Club Dining you may wish to leave your tip in the envelopes provided and hand it to your waiters on the last night of your cruise. However, if you opt for Freedom Dining we will add £1.60 per passenger per day (aged 12 and over) to your on board account. We do this because, unlike Club Dining, you will be served by different waiters who we trust will warrant your appreciation, so knowing who to tip and how much could become a little tricky. Adding it to your account is intended to make your life a little easier and to ensure that the Freedom Dining waiters have the same opportunities as their Club Dining colleagues. You can always visit Reception at any point during your cruise to change the amount. To find out more about the restaurant choices on board turn to pages 40-43.
How do I decide which stateroom to book?
A
It really depends on what kind of person you are. Night owls will find staterooms close to the decks with the theatre and bars the most convenient. Conversely, if you are travelling with children or like to go to bed early then choose a stateroom away from this deck and perhaps one near The Reef children and teen area. Late sleepers would be better away from the gym and children’s clubs, which are usually lively in the mornings. If you can’t, or would prefer not to walk long distances, then it may be best to choose a stateroom that’s close to the lifts. Ships are really quite stable even in inclement weather, but the lower decks at the centre of the ship are least affected by any movement. If you’re travelling with teenagers then you may prefer to travel in Aurora’s cabins with interconnecting doors or Azura and Ventura’s AE grade suites. These staterooms do get booked up quickly though so another alternative would be to book an outside stateroom for you and an inside cabin directly opposite for your children.
Q
Will I need travel insurance?
A
Yes, you will need travel insurance, whichever itinerary you wish to take. We have a relationship with Preferential Insurance Services Ltd who can offer comprehensive travel insurance. You’ll find further details on page 238. You can obtain a quote and full terms and conditions from www.insuretocruise.com/ p&ocruises.html or call on 0845 230 7136. Alternatively, you may wish to choose a different insurer and will need to ensure your policy covers cruising. Remember to let your insurance company know about any pre-existing medical conditions.
Q
What are the children’s clubs like? Can children stay on board while parents go ashore?
A
The children’s club, ‘The Reef’ is an area of the ship dedicated to children and teenagers with separate clubs for different age groups; 2-4s, 5-8s, 9-12s and 13-17s (out of peak season, the age groups change to 2-8s and 9-17s). The clubs are available to you and your family throughout your cruise, as long as you are on board. If you decide to go ashore and explore the day’s destination, then your children will need to go with you. Discover what family holidays with P&O Cruises are like by reading Dermot Murnaghan’s account on pages 44-47 (you’ll find some useful family information on these pages too).
We also have an extensive frequently asked questions section on our website. Visit www.pocruises.co.uk/faq to discover answers to any other questions you may have.
Q
How do I get to the ship?
Q
A
A
If you’ve opted for one of our Caribbean fly-cruises then organised P&O Cruises charter flights from a variety of regional airports will take you to your ship. If you choose either Adonia’s or Acadia’s fly-cruises you can choose to arrange your own flights or we can arrange them for you. You’ll find more detailed information on getting to your ship on pages 70-71.
Q
If you choose one of the many cruises that sail roundtrip from Southampton then there are several ways you can get to your ship. Coach travel is offered by a company called Eavesway Travel from various locations across the UK. Alternatively you could drive and use the car parking service offered by Cruise and Passenger Services. Southampton Central train station is close to the cruise terminals we use and Southampton Airport is just outside of town, but right next to the main train line and one stop away from Southampton Central train station.
Q A
How long are the ships in port?
The time our ships stay in port varies from port to port and cruise to cruise. The majority of calls are for a full day which is usually between 7 hours and 10½ hours with the ship arriving between 7am and 10am and departing between 4pm and 6.30pm. This is timed for all the planned shore excursions to be able to operate, as well as to enable you time to explore the port on your own if you prefer. If you are concerned about getting back to the ship in time before it sails (we’ll always let you know what time you’ll need to be back on board) then we recommend booking an organised shore excursion, as the ship will not leave until all these have returned. For more details of the amount of time spent in port turn to page 233 or visit www.pocruises.co.uk
What happens if I’m unwell?
At P&O Cruises we are prepared for every eventuality. Each ship has a Medical Centre on board, supported by fully qualified doctors. We are proud to be able to say that all of our medical centres are the first and only facilities in the industry to be accredited by the prestigious United Kingdom Health Quality Services and certified to ISO9001:2000. If you happen to be taken ill whilst cruising with us and your condition were so serious that we needed to get you to shore, we will ensure that you are placed into the care of our port agents and a member of our team ashore will keep in contact with you and provide support if required.
How do I pay for purchases on board?
A
Our ships all operate a cash free system on board with everything priced in Pounds Sterling. When you check in you will be given a Cruise Card which works as your identification for getting on and off the ship as well as your charge card on board. When you order anything on board you will be asked for your Cruise Card which is used in a similar way as a credit card, you sign for all your purchases and will receive a bill at the end of your cruise, although you can check your bill on your in cabin tv on Ventura and Azura or by visiting reception. To make this process even more convenient, when you check in, we will ask you to register a credit card or Visa debit card and will automatically charge your account to this card at the end of your cruise, unless you wish to pay by other means (we don’t accept sterling traveller’s cheques). You can change your method of payment while you’re on board, but we still need you to register a credit card on embarkation.
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P&o cRuISES MARco PIERRE WHITE
I believe cooking is a philosophy, ❝ not a recipe, unless it is pastry, then it becomes chemistry. ❞
QA
And what happened then?
MARco PIERRE WHITE, the self-proclaimed godfather of modern cooking, describes how a 50p bus ride started his glittering career in cuisine, which culminated in him becoming the first British chef to gain three Michelin stars for his restaurants. InTERVIEW BY PHIL dAVIES
QA
When did you first develop your interest in cooking? I believe my love for cooking started as a very young boy, sitting on the kitchen surface watching my mother cook dinner. Mum died when I was six and I spent the next ten years of my life in nature, at the Harewood estate [near his hometown of Leeds] fishing, shooting, rabbiting; that’s where my love for mother nature started. I think all chefs who cook well have an affinity with mother nature, a natural respect.
QA
How and where did you start out? In February 1978 my father gave me 50p, which was enough for my bus journey to Harrogate and back, a sandwich and a cup of tea. He told me to knock at the back door of every hotel I could find. It was a terrifying experience to put myself through, taking the long journey to Harrogate from Leeds on the number 36 bus. A lot of boys would have just spent the 50p and gone back and said: ‘Dad I never got a job’. The first hotel I came across was the Hotel St George. What possessed me to pluck up the courage to knock on that door, I don’t know. But I went through with everything he told me to do. I knocked on the back door and it was answered by Trevor the washer, and I said: “Any chance of seeing the chef?” He took me through to the chef’s office and I said: “I’m looking for a job. I leave school in March and I’m free to start work on the 20th as an apprentice chef”. And that’s how it all started.
QA
So what was your big break? In the afternoons at the Hotel St George I used to help clean the guests’ shoes. One day I found an Egon Ronay Guide to restaurants and hotels in Great Britain left on one of the seats. That’s when I realised that restaurants could be awarded stars. I never knew this. And it’s also when I realised that the finest restaurant in Britain at that time was the Box Tree in Ilkley. I thought to myself, ‘Why am I working here, when the best restaurant in the country is down the road?’ So one day I plucked up the courage to go to the Box Tree and approach them for a job. I got the job and that’s where my dream began. To this day I have never walked into a restaurant as special and as magical as the Box Tree.
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The boys at the Box Tree always talked about going to London every month to dine at the Connaught and Le Gavroche. They admitted that they were not as good as Le Gavroche. I thought to myself: ‘For them to say they were not as good as Le Gavroche, it must be good’. So I wrote to Le Gavroche for a job and they sent an application in French, which I couldn’t understand. Instead I went for an interview at the Chewton Glen in the New Forest (in Hampshire), but by the time I got back to London I had missed the last coach from Victoria back to Yorkshire. So I walked the streets around Victoria and found myself in Lower Sloane Street, walking past this restaurant, I looked inside and thought ‘that looks posh’. I looked above the door and there was a sign - Le Gavroche. In the morning I went to knock on the back door to see Mr Albert Roux, one of the acclaimed Roux brothers who owned the restaurant, but he wasn’t there. Instead I was sent to their offices in the back of beyond. I walked into this little office saying ‘ROUX’ on it and who should be sitting there at the desk but Albert Roux. I said I was looking for a job, told him my story and he gave me a job. So the advice my dear father gave me years ago about knocking on doors worked amazingly for me. Knocking on doors and having the confidence to present yourself in your Sunday best works.
QA
What is your food philosophy? I believe cooking is a philosophy, not a recipe, unless it is pastry, then it becomes chemistry. Great chefs have three things in common. Firstly, that they accept that mother nature is the true artist and they are the chef. Secondly, everything they do is an extension of themselves as a person. Thirdly, they give insight into the world they were born into, the world that inspired them and they show it off on their plates.
QA
What about working with P&O Cruises? It was a big departure for you. All my life I’ve loved a challenge, all my life I’ve loved ships, from a little boy reading about the history of The Normandie, the most glamorous ship ever built at its time. I had a certain perception of cruising, but when I went on my first cruise on Ventura it was quite amazing. Would I take my children on a cruise in the Mediterranean or Caribbean? Yes I would, they would explore the whole ship and find it totally fascinating. What I like about cruises is that they are very romantic with a sense of occasion. At the same time you just collapse and chill. It’s fun, therapeutic, relaxing and stress free as everything is done for you. It was actually like being in a fivestar hotel, such was the quality of the staff, nothing was too much trouble. 35
P&o cRuISES EnTERTAInMEnT
Bright young things Alison Pratt went behind the scenes at rehearsals for Headliners, P&O Cruises very own theatre company…
In South East London, 60 or so cast members from Headliners Theatre Company – P&O Cruises very own theatre group – were rehearsing a show based on the music of Elton John, called ‘I Write the Songs’. From the second I set foot in the auditorium, it was clear that Headliners is a very professional affair… they are a group of singers and dancers who would give any West End performer a run for their money. In fact some of them have come straight from the West End itself. The introduction of Headliners means that P&O Cruises can be more creative than ever where the on board evening entertainment is concerned, and can ensure that the shows are always of the highest quality. To that end, Headliners is now responsible for all aspects of show production – from initial concepts all the way through to casting, set and costume design and choreography. At the heart of the project is Production Show Manager, Steve Bee. I managed to catch up with Steve to ask about the X Factor-style audition process in London, which saw more than 500 entrants trying out for around 60 positions. “We look for just over 120 performers in total, so we run two auditions a year,” he explains. “The people we choose not only have to perform together for six months, they also need to live with each other 24 hours a day. So when we’re
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casting, we are looking for people that have the right talent, and those we feel will fit together with the rest of the group.” And the performers I saw certainly are a talented bunch, multi-skilled singers and dancers who are all preparing to perform in a number of different shows on board. Indeed, with an average of eight shows running per cruise, today’s rehearsal is part of an eightweek process that will see the performers rehearse a new show each week. During their six-month stint on board, they will continue to learn new shows, so the rehearsals don’t end here. Steve explains that the performers have been chosen for their versatility at singing and dancing, rather than for one specific talent, enabling the performances to be varied and roles interchangeable. Headliners will produce a wide variety of entertainment – from traditional musicals to more contemporary shows – and the chosen performers need to be able to adapt accordingly. Watching them rehearse, their range of abilities is definitely not in any doubt. Dancers performed their complex routines, elegant lifts and impressive splits in front of me, while groups of singers practice their harmonies standing around a piano. The standard is high and their enthusiasm and determination is tangible. In short, it is clear that Headliners is producing something very special indeed. Behind the scenes, an equally talented creative team is working hard to ensure that all the on board productions are of the highest quality.
“
The performers I saw certainly are a talented bunch, multi-skilled singers and dancers who are all preparing to perform in a number of different shows
“
W
hen I arrived at the rehearsal studio the air around me felt electric. As the people danced around me, they were full of so much infectious energy I wanted to get up and join them!
The team, which includes top directors, choreographers, set and costume designers among others, brings together a vast wealth of ideas and experience, meaning that passengers will be treated to professional, entertaining shows akin to those you would find in London’s West End. “Essentially, what we’re doing now is very close to what you’ll see in the West End,” says Steve. “P&O Cruises ships have changed a lot, and so have the facilities we have on board. We now have the ability to carry out the same sort of technical tricks they have in the West End, and a lot of the shows that you would see there, you can now see in concert version
on board. So the line between West End theatre and Headliners is very close.” Steve knows what he is talking about. He attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School and started his own acting career at the age of just 10, performing in musicals such as Oliver and Starlight Express. His experience in the entertainment industry makes him the ideal person to oversee all of the fleet’s on board productions. As I said my goodbyes, I could hear another Elton John song receiving the Headliners treatment in the background. I left the venue with a skip in my step, as excited as the performers themselves, and couldn’t help feeling a little bit envious of all the passengers who have the opportunity to witness the show live. If the atmosphere on board is as electric as it was at the rehearsals, they are certainly in for some fantastic evening entertainment.
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P&o cRuISES WEddInGS AT SEA An average wedding at sea can cost under £5,500 (including the honeymoon). To give you an idea of how this breaks down, we’ve illustrated average costs for all the essential wedding ingredients:
A marriage
at sea
made
Why did you choose P&O Cruises? Having sailed with P&O Cruises previously we knew we would have a fantastic wedding and honeymoon. What was a real ‘wow’ for you? Being treated like VIPs for the whole cruise, not just the wedding. We were bought drinks and sent flowers and cards from passengers and staff who we had only just met! And we were even applauded as we entered and left the restaurant on the day of our wedding. It was tropical night that night so there was a real party atmosphere on board. It was like having a huge wedding reception! We felt like celebrities. The staff were amazing, as always, but just went that extra mile for the whole cruise to make it truly special. Who conducted the ceremony? Captain David Pembridge conducted the ceremony and our witnesses were Natalie Brady, Loyalty & Cruise Sales Manager and Hannah Page, Assistant Food & Beverage Manager/Wedding Coordinator. Our best man was our mascot bear, Vince! What were the advantages of a wedding at sea? It was so easy! All I had to do was choose a dress and turn up. All the planning and preparation was completed for us and as soon as the ceremony was finished we were on our honeymoon.
£775
Wedding licence fees
£325
Hand tied bridal flowers
£55
Bridesmaid posy
£20
corsage (x 2)
£20
Buttonhole (x 3)
£24
Two table arrangements
£80
Wedding breakfast
£100
Two tier wedding cake
£120
Hair and make-up
£60
Photographs
£300
TOTA
L
£5,487
*Price is based on two adults sharing a balcony stateroom on a 14 night Western Mediterranean itinerary on board Oceana (E109). Price also includes the 5% discount on the adult brochure fare for a group of 10 adults or more.
What was your favourite moment? Having our wedding photographs taken. It was fantastic, we had such fun parading around the ship! How do you think it compared in terms of cost to a land-based wedding? Excellent value for money. I don’t think anyone could ever have a wedding like ours ashore for the money we spent.
Renewal of vows You can also re-create the romance of your wedding day by renewing your vows on board in a ceremony conducted by the Captain*. We require a minimum of two weeks’ notice to organise your Renewal of Vows ceremony.
Who looked after your wedding plans for you on board? Hannah Page. It was her first post as a Wedding Coordinator and she was lovely. We met before the ceremony to run through the vows and music. She also offered to book any appointments that I wanted in the salon and spa.
*If the Captain is unable to conduct the ceremony, his Senior Representative may be asked to perform the role on his behalf. Ceremonies on deck are only available on certain ships.
Weddings at Sea The enduringly romantic notion of being married by a Captain at sea can now be a reality on board our ships. Whether you intend to have your nearest and dearest present or to keep the occasion to a select few, you will benefit from P&O Cruises attention to detail and renowned standards of service. Our on board Wedding Coordinators give you infinite peace of mind and our Weddings at Sea package includes everything you could need for the perfect day: � an attractive wedding ceremony venue � special VIP treatment � two fresh floral arrangements to adorn the ceremonial location � traditional wedding music (or your choice of music) � a romantic wedding ceremony at sea conducted by the Captain � a commemorative wedding certificate � a bottle of champagne � an on board Wedding Coordinator � invitations and thank you notes � unlimited baggage on cruises sailing roundtrip from Southampton and an additional 5kg luggage allowance for both the bride and groom if travelling on a P&O Cruises charter flight � 5% discount for parties of 10 or more
What did you do in the run up to your wedding day? Our ceremony was at 3pm so after having a leisurely breakfast on our balcony we relaxed on deck until it was time to start getting ready. What ‘extra touches’ did you have? I had a tropical hand-tied bouquet which was gorgeous and we opted for the ultimate photography collection, which was an amazing memento of the day. Would you recommend a P&O Cruises wedding? Most definitely! I cannot recommend it enough. What top tips do you have for other couples considering a wedding at sea? Book it! You will definitely not be disappointed. If you want a stress-free wedding day, stunning wedding photos, VIP treatment and amazing honeymoon destinations, a wedding at sea will be the perfect wedding for you!
Lisa and Steve’s wedding was incredibly personal, so they decided that it would be just the two of them (as well as their witnesses) at their wedding. Other wedding parties have been made up of groups of families and friends. If you do wish to travel as a group then you can take advantage of our Wedding Savers, offering an additional 5% discount on the adult brochure fare of your chosen itinerary for groups of 10 adults or more.
£3,608*
Weddings at Sea package
(based on 10 people at £10 per head)
Hundreds of nautical miles out at sea, Lisa Hatfull experiences, first hand, a personal and beautiful romantic wedding ceremony conducted by the ship’s captain. What first inspired you to consider getting married on a cruise ship? We always wanted to have a romantic, simple wedding with just the two of us and after seeing our travel agent Jane’s photographs of her blessing on board Oriana we knew a wedding at sea would be perfect.
The cruise
We know that every bride and groom will have different expectations of their big day and so we offer you the chance to tailor your wedding arrangements with an extensive range of extra touches such as a wedding cake, bouquets and buttonholes, photographs, a wedding video and an on board reception. Photography taken by ship’s photographer
To find out more about weddings at sea visit www.pocruises.co.uk/wedding
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39
P&O CRUISES DINING
Sea food On board each P&O Cruises ship you’ll find a great choice of restaurants. Here we introduce you to just some of the ones you’ll find on board, just so you get a flavour for the breadth of cuisines available.
VENTURA
AZURA
Ventura’s East is elegantly stylish. The staff are welcoming and delightfully discreet. Always on hand, but never intrusive. The menus are bursting with exotic Thai, Chinese and Japanese influenced flavours such as Lime Steamed Red Snapper with Crab Soba Noodles. Special teaser courses and a selection of fine wines add to the experience. East’s clean lines, dark wood and deep red interior have a distinctly Oriental edge, enhanced by ornate panelling and simple modern artworks adorning the walls. Although it feels spacious in design, it also feels intimate, with secluded booths and cosy corners in which to enjoy a little privacy.
The Glass House on Azura provides a warm and welcoming space in which to relax awhile. For connoisseurs and quaffers alike, the wine menu comes complete with tasting notes compiled by wine expert Olly Smith, while divine dishes such as Hampshire Lamb and Rosemary Handmade Sausages with Grain Mustard Mash and Prime North Atlantic Cod Fillet in Weston’s Cider Batter have been cleverly created to complement each glorious glug. An exciting feature of The Glass House will be taster evenings where a signature menu sees each course perfectly paired with its wine cellar soul mate.
ARCADIA
VENTURA
With the early evening sunset pouring through the floor to ceiling windows that encase Arcadia’s lofty Orchid restaurant, it feels warm and cosy, despite being quite a large space. Crescent shaped booths create a wonderfully intimate environment for romantic meals for two or sociable dinners of four or more, while all other tables afford diners a spectacular backdrop provided courtesy of Mother Nature. The menu here is Asian Fusion, which is an exciting combination of Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, Thai and Japanese dishes, all served with understated elegance by authentically attired staff.
With its relaxed, sociable atmosphere and delicious tapas menu, Ramblas on Ventura brings a taste of Spain to the open seas. Chairs and tables sit on stone style flooring, the walls are adorned with paintings of a summer sky and lush green plants are dotted around, creating an al fresco feel, inside. During the day you can sit alongside the bar or gaze out to the ocean, enjoying a selection of authentic tapas, from fresh olives to marinated peppers. Whilst in the evening, dine in the inviting restaurant, separated by rustic walls and arches, savouring classic dishes such as cured Serrano Ham with Figs or succulent Paella.
AZURA
MARCO PIERRE WHITE ON VENTURA
Seventeen celebrates the true art of fine British dining in the style of the classic London hotels. Here you’ll find Duo of Loch Fyne Smoked Salmon, Welsh Salt Marsh Lamb Loin and Fillet of Wild Line-caught Cornish Sea Bass featured on the delectable menu. Enjoy an aperitif upon arrival and if the menu proves too delicious to decide, your waiter is on hand to help. Exuding a sense of contemporary elegance and the romance of times gone by, with beautifully set tables, fine linen, glistening silver, dark wood and marble, Seventeen sets the mood for rather special evenings. Its elevated position also means it affords guests stunning views across the ocean.
High atop the ship, on deck 17, an unassuming entrance is your portal into fine dining Marco style – The White Room. This intimate dining room, with views out over the ship’s wake and a terrace area for starlit al fresco meals, is characterised by the contrast between dark woods and crisp white linen and gleaming silverware. The menu is as impressive as your surroundings with dishes such as Grilled King Prawns with Herb and Garlic Butter, Roast breast of Gressingham Duck with Marco Polo glaze and Escalope of Salmon with Herbs and Tomato Vinaigrette.
All the above are Select Dining venues. To find out more about Select Dining turn to page 43 40 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
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P&o cRuISES dInInG
ATUL KOCHHAR ON AZURA All the adjacent restaurants are Select dining venues. To find out more about Select dining please see page 43
OCEANA Location, location, location. That’s the first thing that springs to mind. Located high up on Sun Deck, there’s a chance that the food could be outdone by the gorgeous ocean views. But the fare in Oceana’s Horizon Grill is more than a match for any amber sunset. In this stunning al fresco setting you can dine on scrumptious seafood and melt-in-the-mouth succulent steaks all, as the name suggests, grilled to order. Al fresco grills are also available on board Aurora and Oriana.
Two different styles of food can be found in Sindhu. The Nashta menu is essentially like Indian tapas – smaller dishes that you can snack on – and is served in the very front of this decadent restaurant with its strong rich reds that make this spacious restaurant seem very homely. The main menu is impeccably served in the ocean view side of the restaurant and offers dishes such as Pan-Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Enoki Mushrooms, Garlic & Cream Sauce served with Thick Cut Coriander Salt Chips, Indian Style Baked Vegetable & Rice served in a Traditional Handi and Goan Style Pan Roasted Lobster in Coconut Sauce with Lobster Kedgeree. An open kitchen separates the two and provides a dramatic backdrop and wonderful source of entertainment to diners – and you can be sure that the team will take every opportunity to demonstrate their flare. You can find out more about Atul Kochhar on page 68
MARCO PIERRE WHITE ON OCEANA AND AURORA Marco’s Café Jardin on Oceana and Café Bordeaux on Aurora are a relaxed affair. Café Jardin’s black and white checkerboard tables give the restaurant a casual feel but it is its location that really fosters the unique atmosphere that can be enjoyed here; the restaurant circles the atrium at its highest point and the low hum of conversation spirals from the heart of the ship below you. Café Bordeaux, meanwhile, sits just one deck up from Aurora’s casino and pub and is linked to them by a beautiful marble staircase. It has the feel of a French style bistro (hence the name). Both of these restaurants are open nearly 24 hours and the menu caters for visitors at any time from Smoked Haddock Kedgeree for breakfast to a Roast Beef, Horseradish and Watercress baguette for lunch and a Rump of Lamb à la Dijonnaise for dinner. You can find out more about Marco Pierre White on page 34 42 WWW.PocRuISES.co.uK
GARY RHODES ON ARCADIA AND ORIANA Where the decor in Arcadian Rhodes is rich and bold, Oriana Rhodes is light and graceful. But the mix of classic decor with modern table and silverware in both restaurants reflects the menu perfectly, which has been described by Gary as “classic British dishes with a modern twist”. Take for example, Gary’s Lamb dish – Roast Loin of Lamb with Spicy Aubergines, Pak Choi and Lime Sour Cream, or his Beef dish – Fillet of Beef with Glazed Calves Sweetbreads and Buttered Crayfish Tails, and you can see just how he marries the two in a completely fresh and mouth-watering way. You can find out more about Gary Rhodes on page 60
ALL SHIPS All of our ships have magnificent main restaurants – in fact, there are normally two per ship with the exception of Adonia and Arcadia the latter boasts a spectacular two-tier restaurant centred around a sweeping staircase. These dining rooms are a hive of activity, the doors to the kitchen constantly revolving as waiters emerge with a variety of dishes from the six course menu ready to be served in our traditional silver-service style to diners who are catching up on the day’s events with their table companions. Being a British cruise line, British ingredients and traditional home-grown dishes and flavours play an important role in each of the menus, which change nightly. Tender Welsh lamb, creamy Lancashire cheese, fresh Scottish salmon – with every bite you are transported back to a familiar place. cLuB dInInG (included in your fare and available on all ships) Dining at the same table at the same time each evening is something of a P&O Cruises tradition. It’s a great way to get to know new people and share your adventures of the day over a six course silver-service meal. A seat will be reserved for you at either 6.30pm or 8.30pm for the duration of your holiday. At the time of booking you’ll be asked which sitting and table size you’d prefer. Please note that seating arrangements are made on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and tables for two are limited. FREEdoM dInInG (included in your fare and available on Azura, Ventura & Oceana) Dine at any time you wish, with whoever you choose. On arrival at the Meridian Restaurant (Azura), Ligurian Restaurant (Oceana) or Cinnamon Restaurant (Ventura) every effort will be made to seat you immediately. If we’re unable to do so, we’ll page you when your table is ready.
SIX COURSE SILVER-SERVICE Inclusive in your fare, each evening you can enjoy an exceptional six course menu in one of our sumptuous main restaurants. The terms ‘Club’ and ‘Freedom Dining’ refer to the dining time options for these restaurants: SELECT DINING Whether you opt for Club or Freedom Dining you are free to dine in any of the smaller restaurants on board (we use the term ‘Select Dining’ to describe these and they include our celebrity chef restaurants). Each ship has at least two Select Dining restaurants on board and, like any restaurant at home, you simply reserve a table. A modest cover charge applies, which typically ranges from £5 to £30 per person depending upon the restaurant. OTHER OPTIONS Inclusive in your fare, you also have the choice of the buffet restaurant, which serves delicious meals throughout the day and evening, as well as occasional themed buffets. Plus, in your stateroom you’ll find a room service menu which is available 24 hours a day. SPECIAL DIETS We can provide diabetic, fat-free, vegetarian and gluten-free meals (other dietary requirements can be accommodated, call our Reservations Team for details). A limited range of kosher food items are carried on board though kosher food production is unsupervised. Please let us know your needs and any food allergies when you make your booking.
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Sailing
with the
family
P&O CRUISES BROUGHT OUT THE SOCIABLE SIDE TO DERMOT MURNAGHAN; FUN WAS HAD BY ALL IT SEEMS WHEN HE AND HIS FAMILY HOLIDAYED ON BOARD AURORA.
A small, tousled-haired, four-year-old boy, steps tentatively up on to the stage at the on board talent contest – approaches the microphone with a degree of trepidation – then falteringly asks the question “What do you call a wizard with a runny nose?” “I don’t know”, says the compère, “what DO you call a wizard with a runny nose?” A pause – then comes the reply – “Harry Snotter!” Cue raucous laughing from the assembled audience of adults and children, and one very pleased-with-himself four-year-old returns in triumph to his glowing parents.
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eedless to say the boy was our Jack and his moment in the limelight at Aurora’s children’s talent show marked not just a glorious episode for him (that is still being relived weeks after the holiday ended) but for me it was the point at which I realised that even the things I didn’t intend to get involved in before we went on the cruise (i.e. the communal stuff) can, in actual fact, be great fun. Let me rewind to the beginning. Like many families with children, we face the annual summer dilemma of going somewhere and doing something that can keep four children between the ages of four and fourteen happy – not to mention their parents! We’d done the beach club holidays – but had found them no more than adequate – the childcare was OK, but the surroundings never change, and the accommodation always seemed a bit on the spartan side.
We’d gone for the gÎtes option a few times. It’s not bad if the weather holds up – but one or two days of dodgy weather and the boredom creeps in and the niggling starts. Then you’re left frantically driving round the countryside trying to find something to do. So we opted to cruise – P&O Cruises Aurora – going round the Med in August. With one proviso from me – that I was having nothing to do with the on board activities. After a stressful and tiring year I declared it was a pile of books, a sea view lounger and a glass of something cold in my hand for me. But like all the best resolutions it didn’t last long – about half an hour actually. As we departed Southampton on day one my spirits had been so lifted by the ease of embarkation that I found myself leaning over the railings with everyone else cheering along to the shore-based band playing loudly as Captain Ian Hutley expertly eased Aurora out of her berth and headed out to sea.
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FAMILY CRUISING FACTS � Look out for the which indicates cruises sailing in the school holidays. Passengers under the age of 18 must travel with a companion over the age of 21.
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Both Noddy and Mr. Bump from the Mr. Men Show make regular live appearances, leading treasure hunts, hosting tea parties and getting involved in the fun and games, much to the delight of the children, and the adults too of course. .
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The beauty of cruising is that the journey IS the holiday – and it starts the moment you board. Our first destination was to be Barcelona – but that was two days away. After exploring the staterooms, which were just like good hotel rooms – with the added bonus of an eternally changing panoramic sea-scape outside – we roamed the ship trying to get our bearings. With nine passenger decks, three pools, shops, restaurants and 13 bars it takes a few hours – indeed days – to work out where you are. Next step was enrolling the offspring in the free children’s clubs. We managed a representative in each of the four offered, Jack was in Splashers (for 2-4 year olds), Alice in Surfers (for 5-8 year olds), Molly in Scubas (for 9-12 year olds) and Kitty in H2O for 13+. The clubs were well run and well equipped with good indoor and outdoor areas and plenty of fun activities.
THE MR MEN SHOW™ DILLYDALE™ Copyright © 2010 THOIP (a Chorion company). All rights reserved
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Eating is a very important part of life on board and the dining was quite simply excellent. The children’s meals offered a variety of options and those who liked dressing up could join the adults at formal dinner. Adhering to the dress code appealed less to Jack (four), whose once worn wedding outfit became like a uniform. He opted more often for kid’s tea - where dining was more casual with no suit to spill soup on. Molly (nine) also preferred earlier eating with her friends, which left time later for cinema, pool parties and club girls’ nights in the beauty spa!
The Oasis spa was always busy at sea, but I managed to squeeze in a couple of hot stone massages and my wife – Maria – swore by the OXYjet facials. By the time we arrived at Barcelona we were gorgeous – at least Maria was! There’s something contagious about the excitement of coming into port, a bustling dockside that promises adventures. We had opted for the water park excursion, which felt a bit like being on a school trip (albeit a more glamorous one) but ticked all the boxes for a hot sunny day. Our next stop, Monte Carlo, provided the most exciting outing of all, a helicopter trip around the principality and taking in all the sights of Nice and the surrounding coast. Over the next three days we really got a taste of Italy, stop one Livorno – we saw the Leaning Tower, drove round Pisa in a horse and carriage and spent the afternoon in the very Italian beach resort of Via Reggio. Sunday it was Rome, we opted for the DIY tour, the coach takes you from the port of Civitavecchia an hour or so from Rome and drops you in the city, picking you up seven hours later. We started at the Colosseum, which all the kids loved despite a drenching in the heavy rain – I overheard one tourist asking why it didn’t have a roof like the superdome – there’s just no answer to that is there! Then off to the Forum, pizza lunch by the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, a trip on the metro and Kitty even found a Zara to shop herself silly in. If that wasn’t educational enough, Naples the next day meant Pompeii and Vesuvius. This time a guided tour was really the only option, Pompeii is so huge you need someone to steer the way and point out
the best bits. But with the mid-August sun beating down even our most enthusiastic archaeologists were flagging by the end and itching to get back on board for a cooling swim and some hanging out in the clubs.
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Eating is a very important part of life on board and the dining was quite simply excellent. The children’s meals offered a variety of options and those who liked dressing up could join the adults at formal dinner......
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Joining Aurora couldn’t have been easier. Drive up outside the terminal – bags whisked away, next to be seen in your stateroom. Your car is valet parked. Then processing by a well marshalled, and efficiently managed, security operation that delayed us only a few minutes and we were on board. Compare that with the indignities and delays being heaped upon thousands of holidaymakers at airports up and down the land.
For me it was back to the balcony, feet up with that cold drink and big book. A balcony is an essential for cruising, although the promenade deck runs a close second – there was nothing like a brisk stroll round the timbers of deck seven (just over three laps of Aurora was a mile) to walk off all the excellent dinners. You could eat well all day and night if you wanted, thank god for the Deck 12 gym. After brief stops at Majorca (beach) and Gibraltar (dolphin watching) we were on our way home. The return leg saw possibly the pinnacle of the trip (along with the talent show) – the children’s fancy dress competition where Alice and Jack were done up as Posh and Becks by their eldest sibling. Beaten in the under eight’s Pairs category by a couple of Roman soldiers, they were still delighted with the glamour of it all and the consolation toy dolphin prizes.
� Azura, Aurora, Oceana, Oriana and Ventura are all family-friendly ships offering The Reef children’s club (Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30th November 2011). The club’s split into different age groups – Splashers for 2-4 year olds, Surfers for 5-8 year olds, Scubas for 9-12 and H2O for 13-17 year olds - and each offers age appropriate facilities from soft ball pools to gaming rooms. Under two year olds will need to be accompanied by a parent when using the facilities. Children in swimming nappies are able to use the paddling pools (only) under the supervision of their parent or guardian. We are unable to carry babies under the age of six months (one year for Aurora cruises R102, R108, R113 & R118, Azura cruises A124/A and A206/A, Oceana cruise E201, Oriana cruise X117 and Ventura cruises N127/A and N205/A). You can find out exactly what each ship has to offer at www.pocruises.co.uk/family � If you decide to go ashore and explore the day’s destination, then your children will need to go with you. If you want to have a night out then the supervised night nursery for children under five years offers the perfect babysitting service (and is free of charge). During the school holiday season we also offer Slumber Time between 10.30pm and midnight for 5-8 year olds. And all the family-friendly ships offer the use of a cabin listening facility via the telephone system. � There’s a special children’s tea every day. We look after babies too with a selection of baby foods. Children are, of course, welcome in all the other restaurants on board, but we do ensure some of the bars and public rooms on board are exclusive to adults (age 16 and over). To find out about the different types of restaurants on board turn to pages 40-43. You can even buy a soft drinks package for your children at the start of your cruise, just to make life, and budgeting, a little easier. � Our Reef Rangers (our name for the team looking after your children in The Reef) all have enhanced experience with children aged 2-17 years and all are CRB checked. You can find out more about the specific qualifications they have at www.pocruises.co.uk/family � The age groups may be combined during off-peak cruises to 2-8 and 9-17. � Turn to page 232 to find out about our Family Savers.
When I found myself musing about what I would have gone as, I realised I was a cruise convert! 47
P&O CRUISES ACCOMMODATION
MINI-SUITES are similar to suites – they’re just a little smaller in size (368 – 384 square feet) and come without the butler. They are available on Oceana, Arcadia, Aurora, Oriana and Adonia. These staterooms offer luxurious pamper packs, bathrobe and slippers, fruit baskets, flowers, daily canapés and champagne and chocolates on arrival.
Mini-Suite Superior Deluxe Balcony Stateroom
SUPERIOR DELUXE BALCONY STATEROOM Ventura and Azura have Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms (324 square feet) which offer superb value for money. On average they are £25 per person per night more expensive than a standard balcony stateroom yet benefit from a bathroom with a full size bath and shower, a separate lounge area, a luxurious pamper pack, a fruit bowl, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival with canapés once a week.
Penthouse Suite (Aurora only)
DELUXE BALCONY STATEROOM
With so many staggering sights to be seen on a world cruise, you won’t want to miss a single one. And you don’t have too. Choose to stay in one of our balcony staterooms or suites and enjoy a room with a very special view.
Smaller in size than the Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms and only available on Arcadia, Aurora and Oriana, Deluxe Balcony Staterooms essentially offer you a little more room than a standard balcony stateroom and come with bathrobe and slippers.
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hrow open the curtains one morning and you might be greeted by the glistening Pacific Ocean. Open them another and it could be Hong Kong harbour, Sydney Opera House or Table Mountain. Imagine taking breakfast on your balcony with these iconic sights as your backdrop. Could there be any better way to start your day? Your balcony is your own private hideaway; a breath of fresh air – literally! Leave the ship’s activity behind as the pure ocean air washes over you and the warmth of the sun caresses your skin. This private space is somewhere to share special moments with loved ones too, whether it’s watching a dramatic sunset fill the sky or catching dolphins dancing in the waves below. And to help you relax into your surroundings, on all stateroom balconies you’ll find comfortable chairs and a table, with the majority of suites enjoying the addition of steamer loungers.
Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) or picture mirror* (inside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space
Suite
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom
*Some exceptions apply
Outside stateroom
Single stateroom (Azura only)
SUITES
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Suites offer the ultimate in luxury and are available across our fleet (Aurora also has penthouse suites set over two decks). It goes without saying that Suites are the largest of our styles of room (between 489 and 742 square feet including the balcony) so there’s more space for relaxing in your lounge or on your private balcony, and the majority have a walk-in dressing area and whirlpool bath. But it’s the special touches that really set these staterooms apart;
The photographs shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown.
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P&O CRUISES ENTERTAINMENT
Morning , noon and night
The Oasis Spa and salon If pampering is a priority on holiday then the Oasis Spa should be one of the first places you visit. In this serene space, a menu of tempting treatments will leave you relaxed and renewed as expert beauty therapists scrub, massage and polish you back to perfection. Ventura, Azura and Arcadia also feature thermal suites and on Azura, The Retreat is an open air spa terrace designed exclusively for adults. Azura even offers Spa Staterooms for those dedicated to the art of relaxation. To find out more about the spa facilities, turn to page 64.
Keeping healthy There’s ample opportunity to keep fit during your holiday with a well equipped gym and exercise classes, a number of inviting swimming pools, golf nets (or golf simulator) and, on ships with a sports court, a choice of short tennis and cricket, five aside football and basketball. You’ll also find deck quoits and shuffleboard – traditional maritime deck games – and expansive open decks to walk or jog along. To find out more about keeping healthy, turn to page 62.
Days at sea lend themselves perfectly to exploring the ship, doing things you’ve always dreamt of doing, or dreaming of the things you’ve yet to do.
The best of the big screen If you’re a film buff, you might be excited to learn that Azura features the fleet’s first open air cinema. This giant screen shows a variety of classic British films, family favourites and the latest blockbusters; all accompanied by great cinema snacks. Arcadia, Aurora and Oriana feature dedicated indoor cinemas and on Ventura and Oceana you can watch films in their theatre during the day. There’s also a selection of films shown on your in cabin TV and in staterooms on Ventura and Azura you can watch new release pay-per-view rentals. Sports fans needn’t miss out either as, satellite permitting, we show the big events including football, rugby, cricket, golf, tennis, athletics and, every four years, the World Cup and Olympics!
In good company There are plenty of personalities on board and we’d like to introduce you to as many as possible. There’s the chance to meet the Captain and officers at the Captain’s Cocktail Party (on cruises over 3 nights) and during the afternoon, we hold casual chat shows where we introduce some of our key figures. There’s the opportunity to explore behind the scenes when we bring below deck operations up into the atrium and when we open the doors of the restaurant galley. And from dawn until dusk, you’ll spot our officers out and about around the ship.
Learn something new P&O Cruises Spotlight programme is a fascinating and fun series of events that you can enjoy on your cruise*. Let our experts enthral you with their knowledge and you could return home with a new-found passion. Spotlight events include talks and interactive workshops, featuring subjects as diverse as history, current affairs, the natural world, art, dance and gastronomy. All are delivered with enthusiasm by top experts in their field, including some well-known faces. On longer cruises (three weeks and above) learn a new skill on a series of interactive workshops covering pastimes such as painting, pottery, jewellery making and card craft, plus language lessons which tie in with your itinerary. You’ll find computers on board each of our ships with sessions to help improve your technical skills, plus photography workshops which offer insights into photo and film editing. Our port talks present the highlights of your next destination along with insider tips on the best cafés, shops and museums that can be found beyond the usual tourist haunts. (You can also borrow travel guides from the ship’s library or buy them from the bookshop). And after dinner, catch personal stories from recognised TV, sports and radio personalities. * Spotlight events feature on most cruises, but may be omitted from some shorter cruises.
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P&O CRUISES ENTERTAINMENT Shop till you drop From perfume and jewellery to smart suits and shorts, the shops on board stock a wide range of products. Our larger ships have shops dedicated to fine fragrances and sparkling jewellery, while across the rest of the fleet you’ll find a selection of our most popular products. We stock a range of clothing which includes glamorous formal wear and casual beach items, alongside holiday essentials such as sun cream and toothpaste. Art lovers have the opportunity to purchase pieces from our exclusive on board collection and there’s great savings to be made on camera equipment from the photo gallery.
Cruising A musical affair
Who would have thought that miles out at sea is where you would find some of the world’s most talented musicians and singers – and yet that is exactly what you’ll find. We recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of our Music Festivals at Sea programme and we still delight in indulging both ours and our passengers’ passion for music – of the classical variety in particular. Of course you’ll find opera, operetta and recitals, but there’s a lighter side to our Music Festivals at Sea programme, a side that includes music quizzes and interviews and a range of styles from each artist’s repertoire. These guest artists are joined by well-known personalities from television, radio and stage who join us to host these special events; Nick Bailey, John Suchet and Richard Baker have all been Music Festivals at Sea regulars.
Best foot forward
The rhythm of the night
Child’s play
If dancing is your thing, or you’ve always wanted to learn or improve, you won’t be disappointed as all our ships celebrate this much loved pastime, in all its various forms. Take to the floor as your favourite songs are played on stage, join the night owls in the nightclub, and on tropical nights, dance on deck in the moonlight. There are several dancing venues on each ship; Azura even has a beautiful inlaid wooden dance floor in her atrium.
Take a walk through any ship and you’ll find that every venue offers something different. There are cleverly choreographed production shows in the theatre, soloists under the show lounge spotlight and live bands in the bars. Pianists and harpists fill the air with classical melodies and, on Azura and Ventura, tribute acts bring superstars to the stage. If you have a passion for classical music, on Aurora and Oriana you can indulge this with a Music Festival at Sea, hosted on a selection of cruises. And if you like to take centre stage yourself, make your own music on karaoke night. You can find out more about Headliners, our theatre production company and the shows they offer, on page 36.
There are five family-friendly ships in the P&O Cruises fleet (Ventura, Oceana, Azura, Aurora and Oriana) and each features fantastic children’s facilities. There’s a dedicated children’s club called The Reef with organised activities from morning until night, soft play areas for little ones, a night nursery and regular appearances from Mr. Bump from the Mr. Men Show and Noddy. Teens can also be safe in the knowledge that there is an uber cool lounge for their use only. In school holidays, there’s even a Rock School and coaching from Southampton football club. To find out more about family-friendly holidays, turn to page 44.
Our 2011 Music Festivals as Sea programme can be enjoyed on board both Aurora and Oriana: Oriana X106 3 – 20 May 2011 Western Mediterranean • 17 nights For the full itinerary turn to page 91
Cruising A musical affair Oriana X107 20 May – 3 Jun 2011 Baltic • 14 nights For the full itinerary turn to page 149
Aurora R106 6 – 20 Jun 2011 Norwegian Fjords and Spitsbergen • 14 nights For the full itinerary turn to page 155 Oriana X111 5 – 22 Jul 2011 Central Mediterranean • 17 nights For the full itinerary turn to page 108 Aurora R112 28 Aug – 18 Sep 2011 Eastern Mediterranean • 21 nights For the full itinerary turn to page 118 Aurora R115 15 Oct – 1 Nov 2011 Central Mediterranean • 17 nights For the full itinerary turn to page 113
Each night we will deliver a copy of ‘horizon’, the ship’s newspaper, to your stateroom. In here you’ll full details of the following day’s activities and events. 52 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
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P&O CRUISES SHORE EXCURSIONS
A day like no other If you think shore excursions inevitably involve big groups and coach tours, think again. With over 1,200 experiences on offer around the world, today’s excursions are as varied and exciting as the destinations themselves.
Independent adventure
A helping hand
Fully guided
If you like the idea of exploring on your own, perhaps enjoying the freedom to seek out a relaxed pavement café, shop for souvenirs or get that perfect picture, we can offer the ideal excursion – an ‘On Your Own’ city tour. These include transfers from your ship to a convenient, centrally located point via coach and are designed for the independently minded traveller.
There’s always the option of excursions that give you the balance of both a guided tour and free time – that way you get the best of both worlds. Staying with Rome as an example, you could take the ‘Introduction to Rome’ tour which offers you the benefit of your guide’s in-depth knowledge in the morning as you’re introduced to The Roman Forum, the immense Colosseum and the impressive interior of St. Peter’s Basilica. In the afternoon, your time is your own to explore further still, before meeting back up with your group for the journey back to port.
Alternatively, our fully guided day tours offer much more than just the expertise and insight of your local guide – they normally include all entrance fees, lunch and refreshments as well. The ‘Classical Rome’ option takes you to enjoy the city’s main sights on a tour that encapsulates Rome’s unique charm, and ensures you see as much as possible during the day. Plus, you can enjoy a pause in your sightseeing as you sit down to an authentic Italian lunch.
Take ‘Rome On Your Own’ for example – a hassle-free way to discover Rome for yourself, safe in the knowledge that you can get back to the ship safely in time and have a local contact should you need one. During your 1½ hour coach transfer from the port (Civitavecchia) to Rome, there’s time to sit back and enjoy the view. Once there, your guide will provide you with a map of all the main sights, details of your pick up point and any further directions you might need in order to fulfil your plans for the day.
Introduction to Rome Adult £45-£50, Child £30-£35
Classical Rome Adult £70-£75, Child £40-£45
These three styles of tours are available in the majority of the destinations we visit.
Rome On Your Own Adult £30-£35, Child £20-25
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P&O CRUISES SHORE EXCURSIONS Good things come in small packages Many of the most popular excursions offered by P&O Cruises provide a relatively personal experience as part of a small tour group of typically 8-15 people, allowing you to interact with your guide, ask any questions you may have and get to know your fellow passengers in the process. On the Caribbean island of Curaçao for example, you can descend into the hull of the Seaworld Explorer underwater observatory. Sitting in air-conditioned comfort 5 feet below the surface, you can watch the watery world and its inhabitants pass you by – dozens of colourful tropical fish such as Yellowtail Snapper, Sergeant Majors, Parrotfish and Angelfish make these warm waters their home. If you want to treat yourself to a truly exclusive experience, our ‘private tours’ could be just the thing – they enable you to see the sights as a couple or with a small group of family or friends. A great example of one such tour can be found in the Baltic where car enthusiasts in particular may be interested to know they can see St. Petersburg in a vintage Volga (once the pride of the Soviet Union). You can stop and go as you wish visiting sights such as the Troitsky Bridge and the ornate Church of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood. The sense of luxury and indulgence doesn’t stop there either, as your driver takes you to one of the grandest 5-star hotels to enjoy ‘high-tea’. Seaworld Explorer Adult £35-£40, Child £20-£25
Adrenalin fuelled fun If you like the excitement and adventure of activities that are a little out of the ordinary, there are plenty of shore excursions that deliver memorable moments and more often than not, a little adrenalin too. From zip wiring to quad biking, scuba diving to glacier trekking or even taking a helicopter or plane flight, the options are far-ranging enough to satisfy even the most thrill-seeking or adventurous of spirit. Take to the skies in Akureyi, for example, and you can witness stunning views as you fly over the Arctic Circle. During this flight, you’ll also land on the remote and beautiful island of Grimsey. Or in Grenada head into the hilly interior of the Grand Etang Rainforest Reserve to the Balthazar Estate. Here you’ll find the Balthazar River where you can delight in a spot of river tubing. Alternatively, St Maarten offers the opportunity of a lifetime – experience the thrill of racing aboard a multimillion dollar America’s Cup race yacht around a shortened America’s Cup course. Polar Flight to Grimsey Adult £170-£180, Child £170-£180 River Tubing Adult £40-£45, Child n/a America’s Cup Adult £55-£60, Child n/a
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Vintage Volga Adult £350-£375 per group, based on three adult passengers.
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REASONS TO BOOK A SHORE ExCuRSION
When your ship sails you to a new and exciting destination nearly every day, you might want to plan for an extraordinary day ashore. We’re here to help you do just that. Although booking a shore excursion may not be first on your list of things to organise, there are some great benefits to booking a tour ashore.
1
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME ASHORE
When you arrive in port you’ll want to be able to enjoy every second of your time ashore. That’s why we have a team of dedicated destination experts who work closely with local tour operators to bring you an exciting selection of excursions at each port of call. All of the tours follow tried, tested and well-researched itineraries that start as soon as you step off the ship.
2YOUR CHOICE OF TOURS
Shore excursions give you the opportunity to see places you have always dreamt of and to try things you have never done before. You can choose from a wide range of tours to suit all ages, interests and abilities, from leisurely sightseeing tours, to action packed activities, or lazy days on the beach. Tours vary in length too so you can opt for a brief introductory tour or an in-depth full day’s exploration.
3VALUE FOR MONEY
With entrance fees, transportation, English speaking guides, lunch and refreshments (where advertised) all included, a shore excursion provides excellent value for money. On many of the excursions, you’ll also benefit from not having to queue at attractions and landmarks, allowing you even more time to see the destination.
4PEACE OF MIND
Excursions offer you a safe and secure way of exploring ashore. We ensure all our shore excursion providers have insurance, and that they have and adhere to their own safety management systems. If an excursion is delayed, the ship will not depart without you, so you won’t need to spend your day clock watching, or worrying about the traffic. Also, if there’s any reason why we have to make a last minute change to the cruise itinerary, you can rest assured that we’ll offer a range of alternatives.
5PLAN AHEAD
By booking excursions through P&O Cruises, you’ll be able to budget properly for your days ashore, especially as everything is charged in Pounds Sterling. In addition, by reserving your shore excursion before your cruise, you can secure your place on the tours you want. Once you have booked your cruise you can reserve your shore excursions online at www.pocruises.co.uk and click on ‘cruise personaliser’.
RESERVING YOuR SHORE ExCuRSIONS OnlInE AT www.POCRuISES.CO.uk/CRuISEPERSOnAlISER Available 24 hours a day; follow the user friendly steps and book from the comfort of your home.
BY PHONE ON 0845 3 555 333 Monday – Friday 8.00am – 8.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm Calls will be charged at local rate and may be recorded for training purposes. By reserving your excursions online or by phone we will be able to confirm your choices immediately, subject to their availability. Confirmation of your reservation will be posted to you.
ON BOARD You can also reserve shore excursions whilst on board, but please note options may be limited. Please note that if booking by phone or online you must make your reservations 5 days prior to embarkation.
P&O CRUISES OUR HERITAGE
the story of
P&O Cruises
P
&O Cruises can trace its roots back over 170 years, when life on the ocean waves was quite different to how it is today. But even in the times when liners were designed for cargo passage rather than holidaymakers, the wheels of cruising as we know it were set in motion.
Although the partnership of P&O’s founding fathers, Arthur Anderson and Brodie McGhie Willcox, began some years earlier, the official birthday of the company is documented as September 1837, when the Peninsular Steam Navigation Company was awarded the British Government contract for a weekly mail service to the Iberian Peninsula. On 4 September the company’s wooden paddle steamer the Don Juan set sail to Vigo, Oporto, Lisbon, Cadiz and Gibraltar. Three years later, in 1840, a second mail contract extended the company’s services to the East and ‘Oriental’ was added to the name – creating P&O. Above: Orient Cruise company Poster Opposite: Cruisers in the 1930's Below: January 1961: The previous Oriana arrives in Sydney Harbour.
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These services were quickly followed by routes to Egypt, India, Greece, China, and later to Australia – extending the company’s knowledge of the world’s oceans and seas. And P&O gained a reputation for efficiency, becoming Britain’s premier shipping company and affectionately known as the ‘Empire Line’.
As well as carrying mail, passengers could also travel, but in those times it was often out of necessity not pleasure, with foreign travel the preserve of the wealthy. Even in these early times though, P&O recognised the importance of good customer relations and did much to make sea travel as safe and comfortable as possible. Good food was important, as was the quality of the accommodation. Sunday services were offered and benches were placed out on deck. Daytime entertainment would involve deck quoits, egg and spoon races, tug of war and skipping contests, whilst in the evening there might be cards and a little music from a band or willing passenger (happily entertainment has moved on since those days). It was this attention to detail and recognition of travellers’ needs, from the very early days, which became the standard others imitated, putting P&O firmly at the forefront of the minds of the travelling public. As well as expanding the fleet to cater for the growing uK cruise market, P&O Cruises continues to adapt to changing trends ensuring that the holidays we offer are ideally suited to our British passengers of today and tomorrow.
To find out more about our heritage please visit www.pocruises.co.uk/heritage
There's a world out there As a shipping company carrying passengers and cargo around the globe, P&O gained an unrivalled knowledge of the world’s oceans and seas from the Mediterranean to the Far East and Australia and this expertise can still be seen today in the wide range of diverse itineraries that are offered to our passengers. We pride ourselves on knowing the best places to visit and the best ways to get there. In 1844 writer William Makepeace Thackeray was offered free passage on a succession of P&O steamers, which took him on a Mediterranean tour to Cairo. He subsequently published insightful memoirs in “Notes of a Journey from Cornhill to Grand Cairo” (his name lives on in both his works and as the namesake of Oriana’s writing room). Later in 1904 on P&O’s first ‘cruising yacht’ Vectis, official shore excursions were offered with Thomas Cook. Currently we offer over 2,000 tours a year, to give our passengers a range of extraordinary experiences and a unique insight into the regions in which they are travelling.
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P&O CRUISES GARY RHODES provide opportunities for their cooks and waiters to be part of the Rhodes restaurants is something I am very proud of. We wanted to create this little exclusivity so that we can offer our passengers something unique. There’s quality everywhere on board so I try and look at another angle to give a different edge to our food. I want people to feel as if they have booked into a five-star restaurant in London.
Excellence in British cuisine is the hallmark GARY RHODES brings to his restaurants on board Arcadia and Oriana. Here he explains how he works his culinary magic to the delight of P&O Cruises passengers.
Q
o what are the main challenges to S reproducing what you do on land in your restaurants at sea?
Interview by PHIL DAVIES
A
My name is above the door so you can imagine how important it is to me; people only remember the very last meal they had, no matter how many times they have eaten with you. The biggest challenge we have is the produce you have to take from other countries, particularly on a long voyage, say to the Caribbean. But it’s about clever menu compilation. Although my menus are predominantly British, I want to have those old favourites but with a new twist and a fresh identity. I will therefore make sure there’s a Caribbean edge to the food when we are in that part of the world. Of course, I have ingredients which are easily available, but find alternatives when I find I can’t get the nice florets of cauliflower I want to finish off a particular dish, if I can get one at all. So we think about lovely butternut squash and utilise that kind of ingredient. We also use wonderful passion fruits that I make a salmon dish with. The great thing about travelling the world is that you have the opportunity to introduce fresh personality to those dishes.
Q A
What attracted you to working with P&O Cruises?
What I love about working with P&O Cruises is they are a very particular company. They believe in themselves and what they offer to their customers but they always want to offer more. I wanted to get involved because they are always hungry to show off what they can do. For me, going on to a ship is very much like going to the theatre to see the show of your dreams. It is something the audience will be talking about for the rest of their lives.
Q A
Describe how you work with the staff on board P&O Cruises ships
My immediate worry was how on earth can I take what I am producing on land and replicate it at sea? The great thing is that training is something P&O Cruises invest in. I work on every single dish I am going to introduce onto the menu, making sure 60 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
the chefs not only cook it, they taste it, they see that. I photograph every single dish and give them a full recipe so they can keep things consistent. It’s something I do throughout all of my restaurants because I want to make sure the dishes are finely tuned and exactly the way I want them executed. Not only that, I occasionally cook in the restaurants on board, as does one of my chefs, so we can always top up this training and inject a fresh little twist to something. The team on board always have a smile, the spirit is always there. That tells me they believe in what they are representing and want to take it and show it off to the passengers.
Q A
How impressed have you been with the quality of service on board?
The nicest thing of all has been the dialogue with the passengers, the reason being that they love to share their thoughts. I am sent letters, emails and texts telling me of the most amazing experience they
Q A
What about creating the menus?
We change the menus twice simply because we are in different parts of the world. So we will have Mediterranean menus and Caribbean menus should the ships be going there in winter. But at the same time we have specials that change every single day so there’s always something fresh. Not only that, if you are on board for two weeks there are three completely different a la carte menus. That keeps the offering varied, so you can imagine there’s quite a lot of work.
Q
ow do you monitor and maintain such H high standards at your restaurants on board Arcadia and Oriana?
A
P&O Cruises picks and chooses very carefully. When you look at the chefs on board, you have the Executive Chef who has overall responsibility for the restaurants on board. And then each of the different restaurants has its head chef; the head chefs for the Rhodes operation are in regular contact with me. Many of them have become friends of mine. Every year we make sure that the head chefs representing Oriana Rhodes and Arcadian Rhodes come to work in London, even if it is only for a little stint. I want to give them a breath of fresh air in terms of showing them some interesting dishes. The reason I do this is to remind them that being a great chef is down to fine detail. They go back with a fresh pride and enthusiasm and that’s how we maintain our standards.
have had. What always stands out in these notes is that the quality of service was outstanding, something they haven’t experienced before. From the moment they walk in I want them to be treated like royalty, I want them to be looked after, I want them to go away on cloud nine thinking “this evening was a dream, it was wonderful.” I had been cooking for over 30 years before I realised that it is all about first impressions.
Q A
Do you have any input in the selection of the waiters or kitchen staff?
When I first got involved with P&O Cruises I wanted to get my own teams in. But then you suddenly realise, hang on a minute, it takes a certain human being to dedicate maybe six months on board working every single day and injecting that energy, that strength, that skill and maintaining it at a level that meets my, and P&O Cruises, standards. So it was a question of P&O Cruises hand-picking a team and actually, the fact that we’ve been able to 61
P&O CRUISES KEEPING HEALTHY
Top 10
Our ships have:
ways to stay healthy on board
❚ A fully equipped gym ❚ Fitness instructors available on every ship ❚ Golf simulators (Oceana & Aurora) ❚ Swimming pools on each ship (endless pool on Ventura) ❚ Spa and sauna ❚ An al fresco spa terrace (Azura) ❚ Sprung fitness floors for aerobic style classes in all gyms ❚ At least one dance class a day ❚ Golf nets
Your ship can be a haven for wellbeing if you want it to be. Here are our tips on the ten best ways you can stay fit and healthy on your holiday.
1
Make use of the gym
All of our ships have fantastic gym facilities with all the latest equipment from treadmills and bikes to weights and fitness classes. Most benefit from ocean views designed to make your time in the gym a little more scenic. Fitness instructors are also available to create the perfect programme for you.
2
Go for a run (or fast walk)
You can enjoy a run in the fresh air around the circumference of your ship; just over three times around Oriana equates to one mile. Better yet, your view will be changing as you pass by.
3
Play a team sport
Our Entertainment Officers organise a variety of team sports a couple of times a day – five-a-side football, basketball and cricket are cruise favourites – but whenever the courts are free you’re welcome to get your own team together or perhaps a game of tennis is more your thing? 62 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
4
Try golf
There are nets and clubs available on each of our ships with which to perfect your swing. Both Oceana and Aurora also boast a golf simulator.
5
Play table tennis
The tables are available for anyone to use throughout the day, or you can take part in table tennis tournaments organised by our Entertainment Officers.
6
Use the stairs
With anywhere between 8 and 14 passenger decks you can swap a journey on the lift with a stroll up and down the stairs and enjoy the artwork that adorns the landings as you go.
7
Take a dance class
If you’re inflamed by the passion of salsa or the rumba, or entranced by the graceful lines and turns of the waltz and cha-cha-cha, join our dance classes and learn the steps to all of these and more.
8
Go swimming
Each of our ships has more than one pool in which you’ll be able to swim lengths. Ventura has a pool that generates a current which you can swim against and Arcadia and Azura have a hydrotherapy pool designed to pummel your muscles into a state of relaxation.
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Choose the healthy menu options
Healthy options are always on our menus; porridge and succulent fresh fruit at breakfast, crisp salads and cold meats or fish for lunch and beautifully crafted and deliciously different main meals in the evening are just the start. Whether you choose them or not is entirely up to you.
Play deck quoits and shuffleboard
Celebrate the age old cruising traditions of deck quoits and shuffleboard. The origins of both go back centuries and are popular pastimes on board P&O Cruises ships. Either take part in the competitions or play with friends; both are much more fun when a group of you play. 63
P&O CRUISES WELLBEING
Spoilt for choice in a floating spa
WENDY GOMERSALL found herself lost in the glorious world of Ventura’s Oasis Spa and really didn’t want to be found
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J
enny was very probably the best masseuse I’ve had in my whole life. Like so many therapists in top spas who come from the Far East, she was beautiful, tiny in stature but so, so strong.
She threw herself whole-heartedly into the business of soothing and smoothing out my stressed muscles and aching joints from top to toe, massaging me with what felt like a big rolling pin. The Warm Bamboo Massage is just one of the surprising finds on the treatments menu in Ventura’s fabulous Oasis Spa. The list of options is better than many land-based spas, and covers every conceivable part of your body – facials and massages; masks and wraps to slim, de-tox and turn back the clock; manicures, pedicures and every service you could wish for to help your hair look its best. Therapies have been cherry-picked from the best ancient traditions such as reflexology and stone massage, to state-of-the-art technology including the fantastic OXYjet Star Facial – more of which later. There are indulgent favourites – a classic aromatherapy massage or moisturising facial – as well as marvellous modern ‘Medispa’ therapies, including acupuncture, facial peels, even teeth whitening, and it’s all on offer in the one place. It’s not just for ladies, either – I saw plenty of gentlemen floating out of the spa too. Men, if you’ve never had a massage, or even just a manicure before, get yourself to the Oasis Spa.
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P&O CRUISES WELLBEING
AZURA Spa Stateroom Package If pampering is a pleasure, then Azura’s spa staterooms are the obvious choice. Enjoy priority service and a luxurious collection of spa treatments, events and gifts. Plus, you’ll also be invited to a number of exclusive spa stateroom experiences. The most relaxing holiday at sea awaits you. Your Package includes, PER PERSON: Pre-holiday concierge facility including exclusive reservation opportunities for The Retreat • Priority embarkation (Southampton departures only) including access to the embarkation lounge on board • An exclusive ‘Spa under the stars’ event in The Retreat, with a glass of bubbly, a complimentary treatment* and an introduction by the Spa Concierge • A personalised spa tour • Exclusive invites to spa lifestyle events • Priority booking for spa services
“
It sounds a bit weird – a continuous flow of warm aromatic herbal oils was drizzled onto one spot on my forehead from a jug secured over me before trickling away down each temple – but it was very calming.
IN THE SPA: • Access to The Retreat** – an exclusive, open air terrace offering al fresco treatments • Access to the tranquil Oasis Pool** • Two luxurious treatments • Private Spa Balcony upgrade, which includes foot ritual and tea • Unlimited access to fitness classes such as pilates, yoga and spinning • Access to the Thermal Suite*** with its aromatic showers, steam rooms, saunas and heated ceramic loungers • DIY Scrub Bar Experience, which includes Thermal Suite Session IN YOUR STATEROOM: • An exclusive welcome gift from the Oasis Spa • Upgraded stateroom amenities • Spa bathrobes and slippers • Luxurious spa towels • A selection of treats delivered to your stateroom during your cruise including fresh fruit and succulent strawberries dipped in chocolate • A floral arrangement to enhance your wellbeing • MP3 player complete with docking station, speakers and headset
“
I have had a hot stone massage before, but it was the first time I had heard of a Warm Bamboo Massage. In the Orient, bamboo symbolises strength, fertility, youth, prosperity and peace. And it’s reputed to keep evil spirits away, too. Jenny had a collection of cho (bamboo) sticks varying in length and diameter, and they had been warmed up. When put under pressure, bamboo releases therapeutic energy, your circulation is stimulated thus toxins are removed more quickly and your respiration is improved. The oxygenated blood brings nutrition and healing to the cells and tissues of your poor aching muscles, and the massage helps realign muscle fibres without damaging them. That’s the ‘science’ bit. Of course, I didn’t notice any of this while I was busy unwinding under the ‘rolling pin’. You feel the pressure of the big bamboo stick being applied to a much greater area, so it’s like a dozen hands are massaging you at the same time. Smaller sticks can follow the contours of your body into every groove, reaching muscles little
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and large, and the warmth of the bamboo seeps through your skin to comfort stressed tissue. It’s so incredibly relaxing. I was very impressed to see the Oasis Spa offered the OXYjet Star™ facial programme. OXYjet sells itself as a non-invasive but effective alternative to cosmetic surgery, and it’s one of the most state-of-the-art therapies you can have. All you have to do is lie back and let the therapist take years off you. Again, the science goes over my head a bit, but my therapist, Sonica, started by deep cleansing and exfoliating my skin. Next comes the facial. It’s difficult to describe, but a kind of wand is passed over your face and neck, which pushes oxygen and nourishing serums deep into your skin. The end result is a firmer complexion, plus fine lines and wrinkles are less noticeable. I felt the improvement particularly on my jaw line and neck, where the aging process seems to have most taken hold. Six weeks on, the effects are diminishing – I need to book another cruise so I can top up on OXYjet – but what a great alternative to cosmetic surgery, and you don’t need a celebrity’s bank balance to afford it. The final treatment I opted for was from the Ayurvedic range. Ayurveda is a well-respected ancient
Those passengers travelling in Suites (Grades AB – AE) also receive a choice of either: system of treatments, each aiming to reset the balance of your body and mind. The therapy I selected was the Shirodosha™ experience – and it’s fantastic. My feet were bathed and polished with aromatic Himalayan salts then I lay back for a powerful destressing Ayurvedic head massage. Then Shirodhara commences – it sounds a bit weird but a continuous flow of warm aromatic herbal oils was drizzled onto one spot on my forehead from a jug secured over me before trickling away down each temple – but it was very calming. Finally, more warm, delicious aromatic oils are used in a full body massage. My time in the Oasis Spa was a wonderful experience; I had found my haven. One where I could break free from everyday life and I really didn’t want to leave.
“
I have had a hot stone massage before, but it was the first time I had heard of a Warm Bamboo Massage .
“
On Ventura, Azura and Arcadia there’s also a Rasul chamber for mud therapy and even a spacious thermal suite with steam chambers, hot rooms and – my favourite – heated ceramic beds to lounge on. What a fantastic opportunity to allow yourself some extensive ‘me’ time.
SUITE PASSENGERS:
• Elemis Express Shave (for the gentlemen) • Elemis Exotic Hand Ritual with manicure (for the ladies) • Body Composition Analysis • OR a traditional pedicure
VALUE FOR MONEY: In addition to exclusive priority service, enjoy benefits worth between £300 and £450 per person including treatments to a minimum value of £140 per person
UPGRADE TO A SPA STATEROOM† • 3-7 night cruise from £249pp • 8-15 night cruise from £299pp • 16 or more nights from £349pp
How to book If you would like to book an Azura Spa Stateroom Package, please ensure that you book into an applicable grade of stateroom (as detailed below). Once booked, we will then send you a letter explaining how to book and pay for your Spa Stateroom package. You will be contacted by our concierge service approximately two months before your cruise departure to arrange any reservations for The Retreat and spa. † The Spa Stateroom Package is available on selected inside and balcony Spa Staterooms (JD and OD grades), Suites and Superior Deluxe staterooms (Grades AA - CC) shown on page 182. Prices shown are in addition to your stateroom fare and are per person based on two adults sharing a stateroom. Please note that a limited number of spa staterooms are available. *Either a mini hand or foot treatment **Access to The Retreat & Oasis Pool is based upon half day passes, the number of which will depend upon the duration of your cruise: 3-7 night cruises - two passes; 8-15 night cruises – four passes; 16 or more night cruises – eight passes. *** Access to the Thermal Suite is based upon full day passes, the number of which will depend upon the duration of your cruise: 3-7 night cruises - two passes; 8-15 night cruises – four passes; 16 or more night cruises – eight passes.
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P&O CRUISES ATUL KOCHHAR
The master of spices Q
What inspired you to start cooking and become a chef?
A
My father was the inspiration behind my cooking career. He worked as a caterer and believed in local and seasonal food. We travelled around India quite a lot, to Kerala, Kashmir and all sorts of different cities on holidays. That helped me a great deal and inspired me to find out the different kinds of food my country had. I got into food at a very young age, eight or ten years old.
Q Dubbed the ‘master of spices’, Atul Kochhar is one of Britain’s top chefs and restaurateurs. He is the winner of a coveted Michelin star and runs acclaimed restaurants Benares in London, Vatika near Southampton and Ananda in Dublin. He represented the South East of England on the BBC’s ‘The Great British Menu’ and appears on TV shows including ‘Put Your Menu Where Your Mouth Is,’ ‘Market Kitchen,’ ‘Rachel Allen’s Family Food, and ‘Saturday Kitchen’. INTERVIEW BY PHIL DAVIES
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When you were training, were you influenced by world cuisine?
A
After my catering degree from Madras (now Chennai), I joined the Oberoi School of Hotel Management in Delhi. That carved my way into fine dining and hugely changed my perception of food. It was an education par excellence – an achievement I am very proud of. I was fortunate enough to work for a hotel group which brought a range of different cuisines to our hotel. The hotel I worked in had a Thai restaurant, Chinese, Italian, French, a very good Indian restaurant and even a Japanese one that just opened as I was leaving to move to London at the end of 1994. I particularly asked to be trained in different cuisines and was fortunate enough to work in most of those.
Q A
What was the inspiration behind your first restaurant?
I worked at a restaurant called Tamarind which, although modern for its time, was still wrapped up in a traditional Indian mould and I wanted to break away from that. I wanted to give Indian cuisine a new look and let Indian cuisine stand next to any other cuisine in the world in terms of not only its concept, but in terms of its taste and presentation skills and everything. For that it needed to free up from the baggage of rogan josh and chicken tikka masala. The aim was to push the boundaries, push the envelope and breathe new life into Indian food and that’s what I did at Benares.
Q
What is the concept behind the food served in your new restaurant, Sindhu, on Azura?
A
It is very much a Benares style of food. Benares has carved its own niche in many ways. It’s modern, contemporary Indian food. Essentially it’s food of the future that a lot of people will follow eventually, not that I’m forcing them to, but that’s the natural progression. If I look into the history of curry, it did not exist in the UK for I don’t know how many years, but when it came through it became one of the strongest cuisines. It’s a moving cuisine which is getting more and more engrained in the British diet. What I promise is a true explosion of flavours. People will love it and enjoy it. It is nothing short of a magical experience.
Q
Sindhu has a lively environment with an open kitchen element. How does that work?
A
I had the chance to see the galley plans of the restaurant to see if it could be an open kitchen, and to an extent it is. So I thought, rather than just have a restaurant, let’s have a theatre restaurant where dishes could be cooked in front of the guests. I also wanted to have a small tapas (Nashta) style area. The Nashta menu is casual, enabling people to really taste a great variety that way.
Q
You obviously enjoy travelling on the ships, so what’s the best thing about taking a cruise holiday?
A
It’s all about the good quality family time together. Every time I have been on board, I don’t have a Blackberry or mobile phone and my laptop is confiscated by my wife. I want to spend time with my wife and my kids, my daughter is six and my son is three and a half, and we absolutely love it. On the ship you can relax and see a new place every day, that’s a huge plus point for me. The facilities on board are excellent. It matches any five star hotel, in my opinion. You get completely spoilt rotten. I absolutely love it.
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P&O CRUISES GETTING TO YOUR SHIP
GeTTInG TO yOur shIp When you holiday with P&O Cruises, most of the time you will depart from and return to Southampton. From the minute you arrive at the cruise terminal your holiday begins and you can enjoy everything your ship has to offer as you sail to your first port of call. If you choose to holiday further afield and meet your ship overseas, we can help you get there.
EavEsway TRavEL LTD If your holiday is departing from and/or returning to Southampton, Eavesway Travel Ltd operates return coach services from departure points across the UK, direct to the cruise terminal – departure points are detailed on the map below. All coaches are equipped with reclining seats, are non-smoking and normally have a WC and washroom. In addition, comfort stop(s) are made en route. Eavesway are able to provide transport for mobility impaired passengers travelling in a wheelchair. For more information visit www.eaveswaytravel.com
Fares shown below are per adult return.
Fly-cruises In addition to Southampton departures, a number of our holidays begin overseas. In these instances you will fly out to meet your ship in port. For Caribbean fly-cruises, the cost of your air fare is included in the price of your holiday (for departures from London Gatwick and Manchester and, where available, Birmingham and East Midlands). What’s more, for a small supplement of £49pp, you can fly from a number of regional airports – you’ll find the full list of departure airports detailed within each fly-cruise itinerary. If you choose a fly-cruise with Adonia or Arcadia, you have the choice of either making your way to the ship independently or opting for our organised Holiday Package Add-On. To find out more about the add-on, please see page 232.
plane sailing
Sailing from Southampton As a rule, your ship will depart from one of two cruise terminals – Ocean Terminal and Mayflower Terminal, however there are occasions when we sail from City Terminal or QEII Terminal. All four offer ample parking and are within easy reach of air, road and rail links. We’ll let you know which terminal you need several weeks before you sail.
by road If you choose to drive to your ship, you can leave your car in a secure car park near the terminal. Managed by Cruise and Passenger Services Ltd, this specially arranged service is the only valet car parking in the port of Southampton, and the only car parking company to be guaranteed by P&O Cruises (£79 per car for a 7 night cruise and £136 for a 14 night cruise). When you arrive at the cruise terminal, a representative will help unload your luggage and park your car for you. When you return home, you simply need to head to the car park (this will be opposite the cruise terminal) to collect your keys. For full prices and to organise car parking, contact them directly via www.candps.com/parking or call 0845 071 3939. It’s also possible to reach your ship by coach. See the map opposite for more details.
by rail Southampton Central train station is just a short taxi journey from all four cruise terminals – it takes about 5 minutes to get to the Mayflower and City cruise terminals and around 10 minutes to get to the Ocean and QEll Terminals (15 minutes if traffic is heavy).
Our fly-cruise flights are dedicated P&O Cruises charter planes (with the exception of Arcadia’s fly-cruises where they are scheduled flights). On board you can relax and enjoy complimentary refreshments and more generous seat pitches than many of today’s low cost carriers. And when you arrive at your destination, getting to your ship is simple. In most instances we will collect your luggage for you and deliver it to your stateroom and our representatives will be waiting at the airport to show you to your coach transfers. When you leave, you’ll receive your flight boarding cards before you disembark the ship, we’ll collect your luggage from your stateroom and provide a coach transfer to the airport. As you’re already checked in, you can then head straight for the departure lounge. When you arrive back in the UK, your luggage will be waiting for you.
transatlantic transfers If you choose a holiday where you sail from Southampton and fly back to the UK, in addition to the above, we offer a complimentary coach* service from the designated airports to Southampton on embarkation day, so that you can park at the airport and your car will be awaiting you on your return. If you fly from the UK and sail back to Southampton, we offer a complimentary coach service from Southampton to the designated airports on disembarkation day. To find out more about these holidays, please see page 234.
Airport extras If you choose a fly-cruise holiday, we can help with your travel arrangements. If you are flying from London Gatwick, we are able to organise an overnight hotel stay for the night before your flight, from £119 per room. Details of Manchester hotels are available on request. If you wish to park at the airport, details of airport parking facilities will be sent to you 2-3 weeks before you travel. *There is normally a short flight of steep steps to access the coaches. This service is not available on Arcadia’s fly-cruises.
by air For those travelling a distance to Southampton, an internal flight is an additional option (air carriers using Southampton include Flybe and Eastern Airways). Southampton Airport is approximately a 30 minute taxi journey from the city centre. It’s also connected to the city via rail; Southampton Airport Parkway station is just over the road from the airport. 70 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
Reservations should be made with: Eavesway Travel Ltd, Bryn Side, Bryn Road, Ashton in Makerfield, Wigan WN4 8BT tel: 01942 727985 (01942 727985 for mobility impaired passengers) Fax: 01942 271234 email: sales@eaveswaytravel.com online: www.eaveswaytravel.com Fares are per adult return. Single fares are available on request. If you choose to travel with Eavesway, please bear in mind that luggage is limited to three pieces per passenger and, for the health and safety of the drivers, each item should weigh no more than 20kg. 71
P&O CRUISES CRUISE BREAKS
Take a break There’s something about a cruise, even a short one that refreshes a part of the soul that other holidays just don’t reach, says Lisa James.
I
t’s as if, once you’ve set sail towards the horizon, your troubles melt further away with every sip of champagne you take and your cares are left behind on the quay side.
While you’re tucked up in bed on the first night, the ship is cruising, swan-like, towards its first destination so, when you wake up the next morning, you’ve magically moved hundreds of miles away from where you were when your head hit the pillow. The result is that, within just a short space of time, the ‘real world’ seems ages away. Or so it seemed to us, when we embarked for a three-night cruise on Aurora from Southampton to Le Havre and Zeebrugge. We – that’s me, who has been on a few cruises before, and my Aunty Jean, a first-timer – arrived on board a couple of hours before sailaway, giving us a bit of time to have a look around, inspect our stateroom and have some lunch in the Orangery.
72WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CRUISEBREAKS
As Aurora’s self-service, buffet-style restaurant, the Orangery is the casual dining option on the ship. But there was nothing inferior about the food. Our eyes darted around the restaurant as we spotted colourful salads, tempting main-course options, filling soups and sugarfilled sweets, all of top restaurant quality. The food just got better as, over the next two and a half days, we ate our way through bacon croissants for brunch, tender lamb at Café Bordeaux and al fresco extravaganzas in the Pennant Grill. We even treated ourselves to caviar one evening with our pre-dinner drinks. In between eating, we gorged on as much of what the ship had to offer as we could. One minute we were having a potter around some very exclusive on board shops, the next a flutter in the casino, followed by the late-night showing of a film, the first time the two of us had been to the cinema together since I was a little girl.
73
Traveller’s tips
P&O CRUISES CRUISE BREAKS
CRUISE BREAKS Board in Southampton and enjoy a leisurely round trip to some spectacular destinations. Our cruise breaks take you to ports a little closer to home; to the capital cities of Southern Europe and to the majestic beauty of the Norwegian Fjords. Opt for one of our Southern Cruise Breaks and you could be visiting Dublin, Cork, Bilbao, Lisbon and Brest. Sail North to discover Bergen, Flamm, Olden and Stavanger, and more importantly the breathtaking fjords that lie between. Our two and three night cruises on the other hand will take you to experience the quaint city of Bruges, and Le Havre for tours to Paris, depending on which cruise you choose. Durations range from 2 – 9 nights and cruises sail throughout the year. GETTING THERE All our Cruise Breaks sail directly from Southampton. Regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. Once you’ve arrived at the terminal we’ll take care of delivering your luggage to your stateroom, with the exception of cruises of three nights and under when we ask that you carry your luggage on board (we will of course provide assistance if required). For more information on getting to and from Southampton turn to page 70. YOUR DAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port.
PREVIOUS PAGE Bilbao Guggenheim Museum ABOVE Dublin, Baile Átha Cliath Liffey riverside at sunset
Add to that a couple of hours surfing the web, pampering beauty treatments (a soothing hot-stone massage for me and a facial for Aunty Jean – another first for her) in the fabulous spa, a pub quiz and even a little boogie on the dance floor, just to prove that we can still party as well as the younger crowd on board.
On ‘formal dress’ night, we squealed like excited teenagers getting ready for our first prom, ‘ooohhing’ and ‘aaarrhhing’ over our dresses, helping each other get our hair and make up just right.
Where on a land-based holiday would we have been able to squeeze all of that into one day and night, without a fair amount of organisation, and the hassle of tracking down a taxi?
On our last night, we sat on our balcony wistfully gazing at the ocean, summoning up the enthusiasm to pack our cases. I asked Aunty Jean what she thought was the best bit of the trip.
With all there is to do on board, it’s easy to forget about the shore excursions. At Zeebrugge, we considered a full-day trip to Ypres or a half day in medieval Ghent, but opted for Bruges, where we bought fine Belgian chocolate and ate moules frites, watching the world go by in the sunny main square.
“Do you know what?” she replied, “I came away three nights ago with quite a few things buzzing around in my head, my intention was to sort them out while we were away. I realised earlier that I’ve forgotten what they were!”
As we made our way down the corridor to Anderson’s for a pre-dinner drink, we felt like a million dollars.
Another convert to cruising! From Le Havre, we visited Honfleur, where we ate freshly grilled sardines in the harbour, followed by salted caramel ice cream, washed down with a kir.
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“For complete relaxation, opt for a seven-night, awe-inspiring cruise”
Week long cruises Of course, P&O Cruises seven-night cruises offer the same value for money, huge choice of things to do and fabulous excursions ashore as a three-night cruise, but the fun lasts for longer! For complete relaxation, opt for a seven-night, awe-inspiring cruise to the peaceful Norwegian Fjords, popular for their fabulous scenery, with ports of call including Bergen, Flamm, Olden, Stavanger, Alesund and Geiranger. In fact, the fjords are often only accessible by ship, so you can be guaranteed a blissful holiday away from the crowds.
Top five shore excursions:
On the other hand, seven-night southern cruise breaks provide a real cultural mix of quiet towns and lively cities.
1. Zeebrugge – A Taste of Bruges 2. Le Havre – Picturesque Honfleur 3. Bergen – Vintage Railway 4. Bilbao – Bilbao and the Guggenheim 5. Dublin – River Cruise and Highlights
Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, marvel at the French-gothic cathedral in Cork, celebrate literary masters James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw in Dublin, stroll around the medieval streets of Lisbon or find out about Brest’s military history.
CURRENCY All the ports of call featured on our two and three night cruises and cruises sailing South have adopted the Euro as their national currency. If you’re travelling on our Norwegian Fjord cruises you’ll need the Norwegian Krona as spending money, but you’ll also find that all major credit cards and debit cards are accepted. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND VACCINATIONS You’ll need to have 6 months validity in your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. If you hold a British Citizen passport then the good news is that you won’t need any visas for any destinations featured on our Northern cruises. However, your passport and visa requirements may differ if you do not hold a British Citizen passport. In particular Non-European passport holders may need to obtain a Schengen visa. Full details can be found on page 235. You’ll also be pleased to know that there aren’t any compulsory vaccinations required for any of our Northern holidays. Please see page 234-235 for further details of visas and vaccinations. 75
P&O CRUISES CRUISE BREAKS
CRUISE BREAKS
Paris
Rotterdam
2 nights from £229† per person 3 nights from £269† per person
Bruges
seAsonAl sAver fri 25 – sun 27 Mar 2011 ventura hol. no. n106 2 nights from £214†pp
sat 7 – Mon 9 May 2011 oceana hol. no. e111 2 nights from £214†pp
fri 3 – sun 5 Jun 2011 oriana hol. no. x108 2 nights from £214†pp
sat 3 – Mon 5 sep 2011 oceana hol. no. e123 2 nights from £214†pp
fri 8 – Mon 11 Apr 2011 ventura hol. no. n108 3 nights from £314†pp
fri 22 – Tue 26 Apr 2011 Azura hol. no. A109 4 nights from £384†pp
Wed 30 nov – sat 3 Dec 2011 oriana hol. no. x119 3 nights from £269†pp
Southampton Fri 25 Mar Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sat 26 Mar Full Day Southampton Sun 27 Mar Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 7 May Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sun 8 May Full Day Southampton Mon 9 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 3 Jun Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sat 4 Jun Full Day Southampton Sun 5 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 3 Sep Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sun 4 Sep Full Day Southampton Mon 5 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 8 Apr Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sat 9 Apr Full Day Le Havre (for tours to Paris) – France Sun 10 Apr Full Day Southampton Mon 11 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Wed 30 Nov Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Thu 1 Dec Full Day Le Havre (for tours to Paris) – France Fri 2 Dec Full Day Southampton Sat 3 Dec Arrive early morning
sat 15 – Mon 17 oct 2011 oceana hol. no. e127 2 nights from £214†pp
sat 12 – Mon 14 nov 2011 Aurora hol. no. r117 2 nights from £214†pp
sat 17 – Mon 19 Dec 2011 oriana hol. no. x121 2 nights from £214†pp
Southampton Fri 22 Apr Sail late afternoon Rotterdam – The Netherlands Sat 23 Apr AFTERNOON & EvENING Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sun 24 Apr Full Day Le Havre (for tours to Paris) – France Mon 25 Apr Full Day Southampton Tue 26 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 15 Oct Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sun 16 Oct Full Day Southampton Mon 17 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 12 Nov Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sun 13 Nov Full Day Southampton Mon 14 Nov Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 17 Dec Sail late afternoon Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Sun 18 Dec Full Day Southampton Mon 19 Dec Arrive early morning Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
Family Choice Cruise – see page 232
Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
seAsonAl sAver – see page 232
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. Seasonal Saver has been applied where applicable. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
n106
e111
x108
e123
e127
r117
x121
Fares from
Fares from
Fares from
Fares from
Fares from
Fares from
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£229
£229
£229
£229
£229
£229
£229
£15
Outside obstructed view
£249
£249
n/A
£279
£279
n/A
n/A
£15
Outside
£299
£299
£299
£299
£299
£299
£299
£20
Stateroom Type
Deluxe Outside Balcony Deluxe Balcony Superior Deluxe Balcony Mini-Suite Suite
n/A
n/A
£349
n/A
n/A
n/A
£349
£20
£349
£349
n/A
£349
£349
£349
n/A
£20
n/A
n/A
£399
n/A
n/A
£399
£399
£30
£399
n/A
n/A
n/A
n/A
n/A
n/A
£30
n/A
£449
£449
£449
£449
£449
£449
£35
£449
£499
£499
£499
£499
£499
£499
£35
76 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CRUISEBREAKS
n108
Stateroom Type
Fares from
x119
A109
Early Bird Savings
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
£15
Inside
£329
£15
£299
£30
Inside
£399
Outside obstructed view
£329
£15
n/A
n/A
Single Inside
£549
£15
Outside
£399
£20
£349
£40
Outside obstructed view
£499
£15
Deluxe Outside Balcony Deluxe Balcony Superior Deluxe Balcony Mini-Suite Suite
hoW To BooK
n/A
n/A
£399
£40
Outside
£549
£20
£449
£20
n/A
n/A
Balcony
£649
£20
n/A
n/A
£449
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£749
£30
£499
£30
n/A
n/A
Suite
£899
£35
n/A
n/A
£529
£70
£549
£35
£549
£70
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
77
CRUISE BREAKS
P&O CRUISES CRUISE BREAKS
Geirangerfjord
up to £60 per person on board spending money 7 nights from £699† per person
Bilbao
seAsonAl sAver fri 1 – fri 8 Apr 2011 Azura hol. no. A107 7 nights from £699†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 9 – sat 16 Apr 2011 oceana hol. no. e108 7 nights from £699†pp up to £30pp on board spending money
fri 22 – fri 29 Apr 2011 ventura hol. no. n110 7 nights from £699†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 30 Apr – sat 7 May 2011 oceana hol. no. e110 7 nights from £749†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
fri 13 – fri 20 May 2011 ventura hol. no. n112 7 nights from £799†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
fri 20 – fri 27 May 2011 ventura hol. no. n113 7 nights from £799†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Southampton Fri 1 Apr Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Sun 3 Apr Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Mon 4 Apr Full Day Bilbao – Spain Wed 6 Apr Full Day Brest – France Thu 7 Apr Full Day Southampton Fri 8 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 9 Apr Sail late afternoon Le Havre (for tours to Paris) – France Sun 10 Apr Full Day La Rochelle – France Tue 12 Apr Full Day Bilbao – Spain Wed 13 Apr Full Day La Coruna – Spain Thu 14 Apr Full Day Southampton Sat 16 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 22 Apr Sail late afternoon La Coruna – Spain Mon 25 Apr Full Day Bilbao – Spain Tue 26 Apr Full Day La Rochelle – France Wed 27 Apr Full Day Brest – France Thu 28 Apr Full Day Southampton Fri 29 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 30 Apr Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Mon 2 May Full Day Alesund – Norway Tue 3 May Full Day Geiranger – Norway Wed 4 May Full Day Cruise in Geirangerfjord Wed 4 May Evening Bergen – Norway Thu 5 May Full Day Southampton Sat 7 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 13 May Sail late afternoon Bergen – Norway Sun 15 May Full Day Andalsnes – Norway Mon 16 May Full Day Cruise in Romsdalfjord Mon 16 May Evening Olden – Norway Tue 17 May Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Tue 17 May Evening Stavanger – Norway Wed 18 May Full Day Southampton Fri 20 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 20 May Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Sun 22 May Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Mon 23 May Full Day Bilbao – Spain Wed 25 May Full Day Brest – France Thu 26 May Full Day Southampton Fri 27 May Arrive early morning
Guide to Symbols land by tender
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. Seasonal Saver has been applied where applicable. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
Family Choice Cruise – see page 232 seAsonAl sAver – see page 232 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£799
£100
£5
Inside
Single Inside
£949
£100
£5
Outside obstructed view
Outside obstructed view
£899
£100
£5
Outside
£899
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£749
£50
£5
Inside
£899
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£65
£5
Outside
£899
Fares from
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£749
£50
£5
Inside
£849
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£65
£10
Outside
£999
Fares from
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£799
£50
£5
Inside
£949
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£65
£10
Outside
£1,099
Fares from
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£849
£50
£5
Inside
£949
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£65
£10
Outside
£1,049
Fares from
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£849
£50
£5
£949
£50
£5
£65
£10
Fares from
Outside
£999
£130
£10
Balcony
£999
£75
£10
Balcony
£999
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,149
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,199
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,249
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,049
£150
£30
Mini-Suite
£1,649
£125
£30
Superior Deluxe
£1,199
£100
£30
Mini-Suite
£1,899
£125
£60
Superior Deluxe
£1,399
£100
£30
Superior Deluxe
£1,399
£100
£30
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£1,299
£200
£30
Suite
£1,999
£125
£30
Suite
£1,499
£125
£60
Suite
£2,299
£125
£60
Suite
£1,849
£125
£60
Suite
£1,699
£125
£60
Suite
£1,599
£250
£60
78 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CRUISEBREAKS
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
79
P&O CRUISES CRUISE BREAKS
CRUISE BREAKS
Alesund
up to £60 per person on board spending money 7 nights from £799† per person
La Rochelle
sat 28 May – sat 4 Jun 2011 Azura hol. no. A112 7 nights from £849†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 4 – sat 11 Jun 2011 oceana hol. no. e114 7 nights from £799†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 11 – sat 18 Jun 2011 oceana hol. no. e115 7 nights from £849†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Tue 21 – Tue 28 Jun 2011 Adonia hol. no. D103 7 nights from £999†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 25 Jun – sat 2 Jul 2011 ventura hol. no. n116 7 nights from £899†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 2 – sat 9 Jul 2011 oceana hol. no. e117 7 nights from £849†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Southampton Sat 28 May Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Mon 30 May Full Day Alesund – Norway Tue 31 May FULL DAY & EvENING Geiranger – Norway Wed 1 Jun Full Day Cruise in Geirangerfjord Wed 1 Jun Evening Bergen – Norway Thu 2 Jun Full Day Southampton Sat 4 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 4 Jun Sail late afternoon St Peter Port – Guernsey Sun 5 Jun Full Day La Rochelle – France Tue 7 Jun Full Day Bilbao – Spain Wed 8 Jun Full Day La Coruna – Spain Thu 9 Jun Full Day Southampton Sat 11 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 11 Jun Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Mon 13 Jun Full Day Flamm – Norway Tue 14 Jun Full Day Cruise in Sognefjord Tue 14 Jun Evening Olden – Norway Wed 15 Jun Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Wed 15 Jun Evening Bergen – Norway Thu 16 Jun Full Day Southampton Sat 18 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 21 Jun Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Thu 23 Jun Full Day Skjolden – Norway Fri 24 Jun Full Day Bergen – Norway Sat 25 Jun Full Day Flekkefjord – Norway Sun 26 Jun Full Day Southampton Tue 28 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 25 Jun Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Mon 27 Jun Full Day Alesund – Norway Tue 28 Jun FULL DAY & EvENING Geiranger – Norway Wed 29 Jun Full Day Cruise in Geirangerfjord Wed 29 Jun Evening Bergen – Norway Thu 30 Jun Full Day Southampton Sat 2 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 2 Jul Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Mon 4 Jul Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Tue 5 Jul Full Day Bilbao – Spain Thu 7 Jul Full Day Brest – France Fri 8 Jul Full Day Southampton Sat 9 Jul Arrive early morning
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Guide to Symbols land by tender ship usually berthed alongside
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Family Choice Cruise – see page 232
Stateroom Type Inside
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£5
£899
£50
£5
Inside
£849
£50
£5
Inside
£899
£50
£5
Inside
£1,049
£50
£5
Inside
£949
£50
£5
Inside
£899
£50
Single Inside
£1,099
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£999
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,049
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,099
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,049
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,099
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,049
£50
£5
Outside
£1,049
£65
£10
Outside
£1,149
£65
£10
Outside
£1,299
£65
£10
Outside
£1,199
£65
£10
Outside
£1,149
£65
£10
Outside
£1,199
£65
£10
Balcony
£1,199
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,349
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,549
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,349
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,299
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,249
£75
£30
Mini-Suite
£1,899
£125
£60
Mini-Suite
£2,149
£125
£60
Suite
£3,649
£125
£60
Superior Deluxe
£1,599
£100
£30
Mini-Suite
£2,099
£125
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£1,499
£100
£30
Suite
£2,299
£125
£60
Suite
£2,599
£125
£60
Suite
£2,049
£125
£60
Suite
£2,499
£125
£60
Suite
£1,899
£125
£60
80 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CRUISEBREAKS
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
81
P&O CRUISES CRUISE BREAKS
CRUISE BREAKS
La Coruna
up to £60 per person on board spending money 7 nights from £849† per person
Cork
fri 15 – fri 22 Jul 2011 Azura hol. no. A116 7 nights from £849†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 16 – sat 23 Jul 2011 ventura hol. no. n118 7 nights from £949†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 23 – sat 30 Jul 2011 ventura hol. no. n119 7 nights from £849†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sun 24 – sun 31 Jul 2011 Aurora hol. no. r109 7 nights from £949†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 6 – sat 13 Aug 2011 oceana hol. no. e120 7 nights from £849†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sat 13 – sat 20 Aug 2011 ventura hol. no. n121 7 nights from £949†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Southampton Fri 15 Jul Sail late afternoon Brest – France Sat 16 Jul Full Day Bilbao – Spain Sun 17 Jul Full Day Cork (from Cobh) – Ireland Tue 19 Jul Full Day Dublin – Ireland Wed 20 Jul Full Day Southampton Fri 22 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 16 Jul Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Mon 18 Jul Full Day Flamm – Norway Tue 19 Jul Full Day Cruise in Sognefjord Tue 19 Jul Evening Olden – Norway Wed 20 Jul Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Wed 20 Jul Evening Bergen – Norway Thu 21 Jul Full Day Southampton Sat 23 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 23 Jul Sail late afternoon Le Havre (for tours to Paris) – France Sun 24 Jul Full Day La Rochelle – France Tue 26 Jul Full Day Bilbao – Spain Wed 27 Jul Full Day La Coruna – Spain Thu 28 Jul Full Day Southampton Sat 30 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 24 Jul Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Tue 26 Jul Full Day Olden – Norway Wed 27 Jul Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Wed 27 Jul Evening Flamm – Norway Thu 28 Jul Full Day Cruise in Sognefjord Thu 28 Jul Evening Bergen – Norway Fri 29 Jul Full Day Southampton Sun 31 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 6 Aug Sail late afternoon St Peter Port – Guernsey Sun 7 Aug Full Day Brest – France Mon 8 Aug Full Day La Rochelle – France Tue 9 Aug Full Day Bilbao – Spain Wed 10 Aug Full Day La Coruna – Spain Thu 11 Aug Full Day Southampton Sat 13 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 13 Aug Sail late afternoon Bergen – Norway Mon 15 Aug Full Day Andalsnes – Norway Tue 16 Aug Full Day Cruise in Romsdalfjord Tue 16 Aug Evening Olden – Norway Wed 17 Aug Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Wed 17 Aug Evening Stavanger – Norway Thu 18 Aug Full Day Southampton Sat 20 Aug Arrive early morning
Guide to Symbols land by tender ship usually berthed alongside
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Family Choice Cruise – see page 232
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£5
£899
£50
£5
Inside
£999
£50
£5
inside
£899
£50
£5
Inside
£999
£50
£5
Inside
£899
£50
£5
Inside
£999
£50
£1,049
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,099
£50
£5
outside obstructed view
£999
£50
£5
Outside
£1,249
£65
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,099
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,099
£50
£5
£999
£50
£5
Outside
£1,249
£65
£10
outside
£1,149
£65
£10
Balcony
£1,499
£75
£30
Outside
£1,149
£65
£10
Outside
£1,249
£65
£10
Outside
£1,149
£65
£10
Balcony
£1,349
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,249
£75
£30
Deluxe Balcony
£1,799
£100
£30
Balcony
£1,299
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,349
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,249
£75
£30
Superior Deluxe
£1,599
£100
£30
superior Deluxe
£1,499
£100
£30
Mini-Suite
£2,649
£125
£60
Mini-Suite
£2,149
£125
£60
Superior Deluxe
£1,599
£100
£30
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£1,499
£100
£30
Suite
£2,049
£125
£60
suite
£1,899
£125
£60
Suite
£3,249
£125
£60
Suite
£2,549
£125
£60
Suite
£2,099
£125
£60
Suite
£1,899
£125
£60
Inside Single Inside Outside obstructed view
82 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CRUISEBREAKS
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
83
CRUISE BREAKS
P&O CRUISES CRUISE BREAKS
Casablanca
up to £60 per person on board spending money 9 nights from £849† per person
Geiranger
sat 27 Aug – sat 3 sep 2011 oceana hol. no. e122 7 nights from £899†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sun 4 – sun 11 sep 2011 oriana hol. no. x115 7 nights from £899†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
sun 18 – Tue 27 sep 2011 Azura hol. no. A121 9 nights from £999†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Mon 17 – Wed 26 oct 2011 oceana hol. no. e128 9 nights from £849†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Southampton Sat 27 Aug Sail late afternoon Bergen – Norway Mon 29 Aug Full Day Geiranger – Norway Tue 30 Aug Full Day Cruise in Geirangerfjord Tue 30 Aug Evening Alesund – Norway Wed 31 Aug Full Day Stavanger – Norway Thu 1 Sep Full Day Southampton Sat 3 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 4 Sep Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Tue 6 Sep Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Wed 7 Sep Full Day Bilbao – Spain Fri 9 Sep Full Day Brest – France Sat 10 Sep Full Day Southampton Sun 11 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 18 Sep Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Tue 20 Sep Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Wed 21 Sep Full Day Cadiz – Spain Thu 22 Sep Full Day Casablanca – Morocco Fri 23 Sep Full Day Gibraltar Sat 24 Sep Morning Southampton Tue 27 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 17 Oct Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Wed 19 Oct Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Thu 20 Oct Full Day Cadiz – Spain Fri 21 Oct Full Day Casablanca – Morocco Sat 22 Oct Full Day Oporto – Portugal Mon 24 Oct Full Day Southampton Wed 26 Oct Arrive early morning
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£949
£50
£5
Inside
Outside obstructed view
£1,099
£50
£5
Outside
£1,199
£65
£10
Stateroom Type Inside
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£949
£50
£5
Outside
£1,099
£65
£10
Deluxe Outside
£1,399
£75
£10
Stateroom Type
Guide to Symbols land by tender Family Choice Cruise – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Stateroom Type Inside
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,049
£50
£5
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£5
Single Inside
£1,199
£50
£5
Inside
£899
£50
Outside obstructed view
£1,149
£50
£5
Outside obstructed view
£1,099
£50
£5
Outside
£1,349
£65
£10
Outside
£1,149
£65
£10
Balcony
£1,349
£75
£30
Deluxe Balcony
£1,799
£100
£30
Balcony
£1,499
£75
£30
Balcony
£1,299
£75
£30
Mini-Suite
£2,249
£125
£60
Mini-Suite
£2,499
£125
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£1,749
£100
£30
Mini-Suite
£2,149
£125
£60
Suite
£2,699
£125
£60
Suite
£2,949
£125
£60
Suite
£2,249
£125
£60
Suite
£2,549
£125
£60
84 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CRUISEBREAKS
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
85
MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
Viva España Barcelona is brimming with excitements. From its attractive waterfront, spruced up and given new life by the 1992 Olympics, to the historic heart of the Gothic Quarter and the unique Spanish Art Nouveau architecture, there is almost too much to see and do. Here are some of CAROLINE HENDRIE’S favourite ways to spend a day there.
86 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
87
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN Top five shore excursions:
Traveller’s tips WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN CRUISING Board in Southampton and enjoy a leisurely roundtrip to some spectacular destinations. These cruises track the western coastline of the Mediterranean Sea all the way around to the west coast of Italy. As well as the intriguing city of Barcelona, these cruises also include destinations such as Monte Carlo, Cannes, Valencia, Palma, Florence and Rome. Durations range from 10 – 17 nights and cruises sail year round, so you can expect everything from mild temperatures in spring and autumn, whilst it should be lovely and hot in the summer. GETTING THERE If you are sailing from Southampton then regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. If you opt for a fly-cruise then you can choose to organise your own flights or we can arrange them for you with our Holiday Package Add On. Either way you’ll find more information on getting to and from your ship on page 70. YOUR DAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port. CURRENCY Most of the ports of call featured on our Western Mediterranean itineraries have adopted the Euro as their national currency. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates - all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND VACCINATIONS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. If you hold a British Citizen passport then the good news is that you won’t need any visas for any destinations featured on our Western Mediterranean itineraries. However, your passport and visa requirements may differ if you do not hold a British Citizen passport. In particular, non-European passport holders may need to obtain a Schengen visa. Full details can be found on page 235. You’ll also be pleased to know that there aren’t any compulsory vaccinations required for any of our Western Mediterranean holidays. PREVIOUS PAGE Parc Guell, Barcelona OPPOSITE The spires of La Sagrada Familia
88 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
1. Gibraltar – The Rock Revealed 2. Barcelona – Highlights of Barcelona 3. Lisbon – Lisbon by Land and River 4. Cadiz – Sights of Seville 5. Cannes – Nice and the Little Train
Rambling off Las Ramblas The mile-long, tree-lined pedestrian boulevard, Las Ramblas, running from Plaça de Catalunya in the centre to the sea, is useful for orientation, but so clogged with crowds that I scoot off as soon as I can. About half way down on the west side is the delightful Boqueria covered food market. Beautiful displays of colourful fruit and vegetables are to the right, huge cheeses and legs of ham to the left and glistening slabs of fresh fish in the middle. I always buy some jamon iberico, ham from acorn-fed pigs. First I nibble some samples proffered by a friendly assistant, then he slices and vacuum packs my choice to take home. There is so much to see, but watch out – browsers like me get in the way of purposeful housewives and their shopping baskets on wheels at our peril. Go early to grab a stool at one of the tiny tapas bars serving snacks. For a more leisurely lunch I walk to Port Vell at the end of Las Ramblas to eat seafood in one of the restaurants around the pretty yacht marina. Musing in museums I love wandering through art galleries with an audio guide clamped to my ear to slow me down. And Barcelona has a fabulous choice. The Picasso Museum, occupying five adjoining gothic mansions in La Ribera old quarter of the city, is unsurprisingly tremendously popular. It has a huge collection of early works by the Modern Art genius who spent his formative years in Barcelona – and a good gift shop. The only trouble is the frustratingly long queues. So, on my last visit I decided to beat the crowds and took the short funicular ride up to green and hilly Montjuic and the Joan Miro Foundation, arriving just as it was opening at 10am. For a good hour it felt almost as if I had the light and airy museum, filled with the great 20th-century Catalan artist’s drawings, paintings, lithographs and tapestries, to myself. Stepping out on to the sculpture terrace I had panoramic views of the city too. Gaudi’s glories On visits over the last few years I have watched with wonder as La Sagrada Familia, the visionary architect Antoni Gaudi’s extraordinary church, has grown and grown, still under construction nearly 130 years since he started his designs. Well worth swinging by just to see it from the street, but even better to take the lift (or stairs if you’re feeling energetic) up one of its soaring towers to see the exquisite detail in the decorations as much as the view. For a fine example of his swirling, organic domestic architecture, I recommend visiting Casa Batllo the smaller of his apartment buildings on Passeig Gracia, completed in 1904. If there is a queue and time is short, look up at the balconies – like a jumble of bones or are they like great jaws – for a flavour of the curious, curly interior. Pedal power Taking to two wheels is a great way to get to know a city. And by joining a guided bicycle ride there’s no chance of getting lost or accidently finding yourself on a dual carriageway. Starting in Ciutadella Park – look out for parrots in the palm trees – the tour passes Parliament, the Arc del Triumf and the gorgeous, curvy, Art Nouveau Palau de la Musica concert hall on the way to the cathedral in the Gothic Quarter. Here there is time to shop in the quaint narrow streets, or to independently visit the 12th-15th century cathedral. Back on the saddle you’ll pedal down the colourful avenue of Las Ramblas, passing through historic squares. Soak up the history and admire the beautiful old buildings as you cycle through the very narrow streets lined with unusual shops. From Columbus Square, the route will take you back to the Ciutadella Park, passing through the Moll de la Fusta, Passeig Maritim and Port Olimpic. Two and a half hours flashes by. Shopping For a one-stop shop I head for El Corte Ingles, the swish department store on Plaça de Catalunya. It has a gourmet food hall in the basement, a cafeteria with a view on the roof and nine floors of goodies in between. It is well known for its fine range of high quality Spanish leather handbags and other accessories found on the ground floor, and best of all it stays open all afternoon. All over Barcelona there are enticing little boutiques and specialist shops from antique dealers to wine merchants – but beware the Mediterranean custom of closing for the precious siesta at 1.30pm – the souvenir-hungry cruise passenger’s nightmare.
89
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
Elba
Naples
up to £125 per person on board spending money 12 nights from £1,049† per person
Florence
SEASONAL SAvER
SEASONAL SAvER
Sun 27 Mar – Fri 8 Apr 2011 ventura Hol. No. N107 12 nights from £1,049†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
29 Mar – 12 Apr 2011 Arcadia Hol. No. J102 14 nights from £1,299†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Fri 8 – Fri 22 Apr 2011 Azura Hol. No. A108 14 nights from £1,399†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 16 – Sat 30 Apr 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E109 14 nights from £1,249†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Fri 29 Apr – Fri 13 May 2011 ventura Hol. No. N111 14 nights from £1,349†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 3 – Fri 20 May 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x106 17 nights from £1,724†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Sun 27 Mar Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Thu 31 Mar Full Day Monte Carlo – Monaco Fri 1 Apr Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 2 Apr Full Day Ajaccio t – Corsica, france Sun 3 Apr Full Day gibraltar Tue 5 Apr Morning Southampton Fri 8 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 29 Mar Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Sat 2 Apr Full Day Toulon – france Sun 3 Apr Full Day Santa Margherita – Italy Mon 4 Apr Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Tue 5 Apr Full Day Naples – Italy Wed 6 Apr Full Day Alicante – Spain Fri 8 Apr Full Day gibraltar Sat 9 Apr Morning Southampton Tue 12 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 8 Apr Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Mon 11 Apr Full Day barcelona – Spain Wed 13 Apr Full Day Cannes – france Thu 14 Apr Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 15 Apr Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 16 Apr Full Day Alicante – Spain Mon 18 Apr Full Day gibraltar Tue 19 Apr Morning Southampton Fri 22 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 16 Apr Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Wed 20 Apr Full Day Cannes – france Thu 21 Apr Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 22 Apr Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 23 Apr Full Day Elba – Italy Sun 24 Apr Full Day Alicante – Spain Tue 26 Apr Full Day gibraltar Wed 27 Apr Morning Southampton Sat 30 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 29 Apr Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Mon 2 May Full Day barcelona – Spain Wed 4 May Full Day Monte Carlo – Monaco Thu 5 May Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 6 May Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 7 May Full Day valencia – Spain Mon 9 May Full Day gibraltar Tue 10 May Afternoon Southampton Fri 13 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 3 May Sail late afternoon valencia – Spain Sat 7 May Full Day Salerno – Italy Mon 9 May Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Tue 10 May Full Day Santa Margherita – Italy Wed 11 May Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Thu 12 May Full Day Toulon – france Fri 13 May Full Day barcelona – Spain Sat 14 May Full Day gibraltar Mon 16 May Morning lisbon – Portugal Tue 17 May Full Day Southampton Fri 20 May Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside
SEASONAL SAvER – see page 232
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,499
£200
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,599
£200
£10
Outside
£1,799
£250
Deluxe Balcony
£2,149
£400
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,299
£125
Suite
£3,499
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,199
£150
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,349
£150
£10
Outside
£1,499
£190
£20
Balcony
£1,749
£230
£60
Superior Deluxe
£1,999
£300
Suite
£2,599
£380
90 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Stateroom Type
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. Seasonal Saver has been applied where applicable. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
Music festival at Sea – see page 53
Fares from
Fares from
Stateroom Type
family Choice Cruise – see page 232
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,499
£100
£10
Single Inside
£1,899
£100
£10
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,699
£100
£10
£60
Outside
£1,949
£125
£20
£500
£125
Balcony
£2,199
£150
£500
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,599
Suite
£3,349
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,349
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,649
£100
£10
Outside
£1,749
£125
£20
Balcony
£1,999
£150
£60
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,249
£250
£200
£60
Suite
£3,949
£250
£250
£125
Stateroom Type
HOW TO BOOK
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,449
£100
£10
Inside
£1,849
£125
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,599
£100
£10
Outside
£2,199
£160
£20
Outside
£1,849
£125
£20
Deluxe Outside
£2,849
£190
£20
Balcony
£2,049
£150
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,699
£250
£60
£125
Superior Deluxe
£2,399
£200
£60
Mini-Suite
£5,199
£315
£125
£125
Suite
£3,149
£250
£125
Suite
£5,999
£315
£125
Stateroom Type
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
On Board Spending Money
91
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
Rome
Monte Carlo
Cannes
up to £125 per person on board spending money 14 nights from £1,449† per person MAIDEN CRuISE Mon 9 – Mon 23 May 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E112 14 nights from £1,449†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sun 22 May – Tue 7 Jun 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D101 16 nights from £2,174†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 18 Jun – Sat 2 Jul 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E116 14 nights from £1,549†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Thu 23 Jun – Thu 7 Jul 2011 Arcadia Hol. No. J104 14 nights from £1,699†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 2 Jul – Sat 16 Jul 2011 ventura Hol. No. N117 14 nights from £1,599†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 9 – Sat 23 Jul 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E118 14 nights from £1,549†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Mon 9 May Sail late afternoon Oporto – Portugal Wed 11 May Full Day barcelona – Spain Sat 14 May Full Day Cannes – france Sun 15 May Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Mon 16 May Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Tue 17 May Full Day Alghero – Sardinia, Italy Wed 18 May Full Day gibraltar Fri 20 May Morning Southampton Mon 23 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 22 May Sail late afternoon lisbon – Portugal Wed 25 May Full Day gibraltar Thu 26 May Afternoon Alghero – Sardinia, Italy Sat 28 May Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sun 29 May Full Day Portofino – Italy Mon 30 May Full Day Sete – france Tue 31 May Full Day Port Mahon – Menorca Wed 1 Jun Full Day barcelona – Spain Thu 2 Jun Full Day Cadiz – Spain Sat 4 Jun Morning Southampton Tue 7 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 18 Jun Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Wed 22 Jun Full Day Monte Carlo – Monaco Thu 23 Jun Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 24 Jun Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 25 Jun Full Day Palau (for tours to Costa Smeralda) – Sardinia, Italy Sun 26 Jun Full Day Almeria – Spain Tue 28 Jun Full Day gibraltar Wed 29 Jun Morning Southampton Sat 2 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 23 Jun Sail late afternoon gibraltar Mon 27 Jun Morning Elba – Italy Wed 29 Jun Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Thu 30 Jun Full Day St Raphael – france Fri 1 Jul Full Day barcelona – Spain Sat 2 Jul Full Day valencia – Spain Sun 3 Jul Full Day Oporto – Portugal Tue 5 Jul Full Day Southampton Thu 7 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 2 Jul Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Wed 6 Jul Full Day Monte Carlo – Monaco Thu 7 Jul Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 8 Jul Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 9 Jul Full Day Palma – Majorca Mon 11 Jul Full Day valencia – Spain Tue 12 Jul Full Day gibraltar Wed 13 Jul Afternoon Southampton Sat 16 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 9 Jul Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Wed 13 Jul Full Day Cannes – france Thu 14 Jul Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 15 Jul Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 16 Jul Full Day valencia – Spain Mon 18 Jul Full Day gibraltar Tue 19 Jul Afternoon Praia da Rocha – Portugal Wed 20 Jul Full Day Southampton Sat 23 Jul Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,549
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,899
£100
Outside
£1,949
Balcony
£2,299
Mini-Suite Suite
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,299
£125
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,399
£125
£125
£20
Outside
£2,749
£150
£60
Balcony
£3,249
£3,699
£250
£125
Suite
£7,699
£4,449
£250
£125
92 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,799
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,949
£100
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,649
£100
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£10
£160
£20
Outside
£2,149
£125
£20
Outside
£2,199
£190
£60
Balcony
£2,549
£150
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£2,649
£315
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,099
£250
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,099
Suite
£4,949
£250
£125
Suite
£4,299
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
HOW TO BOOK
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,699
£100
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,899
£100
£10
£125
£20
Outside
£2,199
£125
£20
£200
£60
Balcony
£2,449
£150
£60
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe
£2,899
£200
£60
£250
£125
Suite
£3,749
£250
£125
Stateroom Type
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,649
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,049
£100
£10
Outside
£2,149
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,499
£150
£60
Mini-Suite
£4,049
£250
£125
Suite
£4,849
£250
£125
Stateroom Type
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
93
Pisa
barcelona
Palma
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
up to £125 per person on board spending money 14 nights from £1,649† per person
Fri 22 Jul – Fri 5 Aug 2011 Azura Hol. No. A117 14 nights from £1,699†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 23 Jul – Sat 6 Aug 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E119 14 nights from £1,649†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 30 Jul – Sat 13 Aug 2011 ventura Hol. No. N120 14 nights from £1,649†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Fri 22 Jul Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Tue 26 Jul Full Day Toulon – france Wed 27 Jul Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Thu 28 Jul Full Day Naples – Italy Fri 29 Jul Full Day Ajaccio t – Corsica, france Sat 30 Jul Full Day gibraltar Mon 1 Aug Morning lisbon – Portugal Tue 2 Aug Full Day Southampton Fri 5 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 23 Jul Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Tue 26 Jul Full Day Alghero – Sardinia, Italy Thu 28 Jul Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Fri 29 Jul Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Sat 30 Jul Full Day Cannes – france Sun 31 Jul Full Day barcelona – Spain Mon 1 Aug Full Day gibraltar Wed 3 Aug Morning Southampton Sat 6 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 30 Jul Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Wed 3 Aug Full Day Monte Carlo – Monaco Thu 4 Aug Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 5 Aug Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 6 Aug Full Day Palma – Majorca Mon 8 Aug Full Day Alicante – Spain Tue 9 Aug Full Day gibraltar Wed 10 Aug Morning Southampton Sat 13 Aug Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
family Choice Cruise – see page 232 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,799
£100
£10
Single Inside
£2,099
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,999
£100
Outside
£2,299
Balcony
£2,549
Superior Deluxe Balcony Suite
Stateroom Type
94 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,749
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£10
£10
Outside
£2,149
£125
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,549
£150
£60
Mini-Suite
£4,099
£3,049
£200
£60
Suite
£4,999
£250
£3,949
£250
£125
HOW TO BOOK
Stateroom Type
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,749
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,949
£100
£10
£20
Outside
£2,249
£125
£20
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,549
£150
£60
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe
£2,949
£200
£60
£125
Suite
£3,899
£250
£125
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
Stateroom Type
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
95
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
Tangier
Propriano
up to £125 per person on board spending money 12 nights from £1,424† per person
lisbon
Sun 31 Jul – Fri 12 Aug 2011 Aurora Hol. No. R110 12 nights from £1,524†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 13 – Sat 27 Aug 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E121 14 nights from £1,649†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 20 Aug – Sat 3 Sep 2011 ventura Hol. No. N122 14 nights from £1,699†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 30 Aug – Fri 16 Sep 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D108 17 nights from £2,174†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 3 – Thu 15 Sep 2011 ventura Hol. No. N123 12 nights from £1,424†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 17 Sep – Sat 1 Oct 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E125 14 nights from £1,549†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Sun 31 Jul Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Thu 4 Aug Full Day villefranche – france Fri 5 Aug Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 6 Aug Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Sun 7 Aug Full Day gibraltar Tue 9 Aug Afternoon Southampton Fri 12 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 13 Aug Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Wed 17 Aug Full Day Cannes – france Thu 18 Aug Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Fri 19 Aug Full Day Naples – Italy Sat 20 Aug Full Day Ajaccio t – Corsica, france Sun 21 Aug Full Day gibraltar Tue 23 Aug Afternoon Praia da Rocha – Portugal Wed 24 Aug Full Day Southampton Sat 27 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 20 Aug Sail late afternoon valencia – Spain Wed 24 Aug Full Day barcelona – Spain Thu 25 Aug Full Day Toulon – france Fri 26 Aug Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Sat 27 Aug Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sun 28 Aug Full Day Ajaccio t – Corsica, france Mon 29 Aug Full Day gibraltar Wed 31 Aug Morning Southampton Sat 3 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 30 Aug Sail late afternoon lisbon – Portugal Fri 2 Sep Full Day valencia – Spain Sun 4 Sep Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Tue 6 Sep Full Day Propriano – Corsica, france Wed 7 Sep Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Thu 8 Sep Full Day Sete – france Fri 9 Sep Full Day barcelona – Spain Sat 10 Sep Full Day Tangier – Morocco Mon 12 Sep Full Day la Coruna – Spain Wed 14 Sep Full Day Southampton Fri 16 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 3 Sep Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Wed 7 Sep Full Day villefranche – france Thu 8 Sep Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Fri 9 Sep Full Day Ajaccio t – Corsica, france Sat 10 Sep Full Day gibraltar Mon 12 Sep Morning Southampton Thu 15 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 17 Sep Sail late afternoon Oporto – Portugal Mon 19 Sep Full Day Almeria – Spain Wed 21 Sep Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Fri 23 Sep Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Sat 24 Sep Full Day Monte Carlo t – Monaco Sun 25 Sep Full Day barcelona – Spain Mon 26 Sep Full Day gibraltar Wed 28 Sep Morning Southampton Sat 1 Oct Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Stateroom Type
On Board Spending Money
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,749
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,149
£100
£10
£60
Outside
£2,199
£125
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,549
£4,249
£190
£125
Mini-Suite
£5,149
£190
£125
Suite
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£1,599
£75
£10
Outside
£1,899
£95
£20
Balcony
£2,449
£115
Deluxe Balcony
£2,849
Mini-Suite Suite
96 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,799
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,949
£100
£10
£20
Outside
£2,299
£125
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,549
£4,149
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe
£5,049
£250
£125
Suite
Stateroom Type
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
family Choice Cruise – see page 232
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,299
£125
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,449
£125
£10
Outside obstructed view
£20
Outside
£2,849
£160
£20
Outside
£1,899
£150
£60
Balcony
£3,449
£190
£60
Balcony
£2,149
£2,999
£200
£60
Suite
£8,049
£315
£125
Superior Deluxe
£2,549
£3,899
£250
£125
Suite
£3,249
Stateroom Type
HOW TO BOOK
Stateroom Type Inside
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,649
£100
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,049
£100
£10
£95
£20
Outside
£2,099
£125
£20
£115
£60
Balcony
£2,499
£150
£60
£150
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,999
£250
£125
£190
£125
Suite
£4,899
£250
£125
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,499
£75
£10
£1,649
£75
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
Stateroom Type
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
97
barcelona
Rome
MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
Portofino
up to £125 per person on board spending money 12 nights from £1,224† per person
Tue 27 Sep – Sun 9 Oct 2011 ventura Hol. No. N125 12 nights from £1,224†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 1 – Sat 15 Oct 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E126 14 nights from £1,349†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Wed 12 – Sat 29 Oct 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D110 17 nights from £1,824†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Tue 27 Sep Sail late afternoon barcelona – Spain Sat 1 Oct Full Day Cannes – france Sun 2 Oct Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Mon 3 Oct Full Day Ajaccio t – Corsica, france Tue 4 Oct Full Day gibraltar Thu 6 Oct Morning Southampton Sun 9 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 1 Oct Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Tue 4 Oct Full Day Alghero – Sardinia, Italy Thu 6 Oct Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Fri 7 Oct Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Sat 8 Oct Full Day Monte Carlo t – Monaco Sun 9 Oct Full Day barcelona – Spain Mon 10 Oct Full Day gibraltar Wed 12 Oct Morning Southampton Sat 15 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Wed 12 Oct Sail late afternoon la Coruna – Spain Fri 14 Oct Full Day Cadiz – Spain Sun 16 Oct Full Day barcelona – Spain Tue 18 Oct Full Day St Raphael – france Wed 19 Oct Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Thu 20 Oct Full Day Portofino – Italy Fri 21 Oct Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 22 Oct Full Day Cagliari – Sardinia, Italy Sun 23 Oct Full Day gibraltar Tue 25 Oct Morning lisbon – Portugal Wed 26 Oct Full Day Southampton Sat 29 Oct Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,299
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,449
£75
£10
Outside
£1,699
£95
Balcony
£1,899
Superior Deluxe
£2,199
Suite
£2,849
£190
Stateroom Type
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,449
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£100
£10
£20
Outside
£1,899
£125
£115
£60
Balcony
£2,249
£150
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,549
£125
Suite
£4,299
£250
£125
98 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,949
£125
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,049
£125
£10
£20
Outside
£2,349
£160
£20
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,849
£190
£60
£250
£125
Suite
£6,699
£315
£125
Stateroom Type
HOW TO BOOK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
99
villefranche
hOlIDAY PACKAgE ADD-ON INClUDES: • International economy flights to/from London • Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on dates specified • Hotel rooms and meals where flight timings require an overnight stay either before or after your cruise See page 232 for more details.
up to £125 per person on board spending money 10 nights from £799∆ per person
Valencia
SEASONAL SAvER
SEASONAL SAvER
SEASONAL SAvER
CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR’S CRuISE
Fri 14 – Fri 28 Oct 2011 Azura Hol. No. A123 14 nights from £1,349†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Wed 26 Oct – Wed 09 Nov 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E129 14 nights from £1,199†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 29 Oct – Tue 8 Nov 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D111 10 nights from £949∆pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Mon 19 Dec 2011 – Thu 5 Jan 2012 Oriana Hol. No. x122‡ 17 nights from £2,224†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 3 – Fri 13 Jan 2012 Adonia Hol. No. D201 10 nights from £799∆pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Wed 21 Mar – Wed 4 Apr 2012 Oceana Hol. No. E204 14 nights from £1,249†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Fri 14 Oct Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Mon 17 Oct Full Day barcelona – Spain Wed 19 Oct Full Day Cannes – france Thu 20 Oct Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Fri 21 Oct Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Sat 22 Oct Full Day Alicante – Spain Mon 24 Oct Full Day gibraltar Tue 25 Oct Morning Southampton Fri 28 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Wed 26 Oct Sail late afternoon lisbon – Portugal Sat 29 Oct Full Day valencia – Spain Mon 31 Oct Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Wed 2 Nov Full Day villefranche – france Thu 3 Nov Full Day barcelona – Spain Fri 4 Nov Full Day Alicante – Spain Sat 5 Nov Full Day gibraltar Sun 6 Nov Morning Southampton Wed 9 Nov Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 29 Oct Sail late afternoon lisbon – Portugal Tue 1 Nov Full Day valencia – Spain Thu 3 Nov Full Day barcelona – Spain Fri 4 Nov Full Day Marseilles – france Sat 5 Nov Full Day Monte Carlo t – Monaco Sun 6 Nov Full Day la Spezia – Italy Mon 7 Nov Full Day Savona – Italy Tue 8 Nov Disembark and fly to UK. UK fly to UK gatwick or Manchester
Southampton Mon 19 Dec Sail late afternoon lisbon – Portugal Thu 22 Dec Full Day Cadiz – Spain Fri 23 Dec Full Day Cartagena – Spain Sat 24 Dec Full Day Malta gC Tue 27 Dec Full Day Naples – Italy Wed 28 Dec Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Thu 29 Dec Full Day Toulon – france Fri 30 Dec Full Day barcelona – Spain Sat 31 Dec fUll DAY & EvENINg gibraltar Mon 2 Jan Morning Southampton Thu 5 Jan Arrive early morning
fly to Naples – Italy from gatwick or Manchester Tue 3 Jan Sail late afternoon Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Wed 4 Jan Full Day Palma – Majorca Fri 6 Jan Full Day valencia – Spain Sat 7 Jan Full Day Almeria – Spain Sun 8 Jan Full Day Cadiz – Spain Mon 9 Jan Full Day lisbon – Portugal Tue 10 Jan Full Day Southampton Fri 13 Jan Arrive early morning
Southampton Wed 21 Mar Sail late afternoon Oporto – Portugal Fri 23 Mar Full Day lisbon – Portugal Sat 24 Mar Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Tue 27 Mar Full Day florence/ Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Wed 28 Mar Full Day villefranche – france Thu 29 Mar Full Day barcelona – Spain Fri 30 Mar Full Day gibraltar Sun 1 Apr Morning Southampton Wed 4 Apr Arrive early morning
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. Seasonal Saver has been applied where applicable. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable. ‡ Not applicable to fly-cruises. ∆ Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and excludes Holiday Package Add On. ° Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Holiday Package Add On.
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,449
£100
£10
Single Inside
£1,699
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,599
£100
Outside
£1,849
Balcony
£2,099
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,449
Suite
£3,149
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,399
£200
Outside obstructed view
£1,799
£200
£10
Outside
£1,849
£250
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,199
£300
£150
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,449
£500
£200
£60
Suite
£4,149
£500
£125
£250
£125
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration
Stateroom Type
Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
Cruise only Fares from
£10
Inside
£1,099
£150
£5
Inside
£2,349
£125
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,149
£150
£5
Outside
£2,799
£160
£20
£20
Outside
£1,299
£190
£10
Deluxe Outside
£3,599
£190
£20
Outside
£60
Balcony
£1,599
£230
£30
Deluxe Balcony
£4,649
£250
£60
£125
Suite
£3,749
£380
£60
Mini-Suite
£6,549
£315
£125
Suite
£7,649
£315
£125
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration
Early Bird Savings
Early Bird Savings
£49 29 Oct 11 8 Nov 11 10
Stateroom Type
Fares from
£998°
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,349
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,649
£100
£10
£10
Outside
£1,749
£125
£20
£230
£30
Balcony
£1,999
£150
£60
£380
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,299
£250
£125
Suite
£3,949
£250
£125
Early Bird Savings
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£949
£150
£5
Outside obstructed view
£999
£150
£5
£1,099
£190
Balcony
£1,249
Suite
£2,899
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
SEASONAL SAvER – see page 232 Fares from
Cruise only Fares from
Full holiday package from
HOW TO BOOK
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Stateroom Type
Full holiday package from
100 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside
£49 3 Jan 12 13 Jan 12 10
Stateroom Type
£848°
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
101
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN
A spectacular
water world CARlOlINE hENDRIE takes a tour of venice by water, well, when in venice...
102 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
I
t was my most memorable sail away ever. From the top deck I looked down on the Doge’s palace, which only that morning had me gazing up in awe of its size and splendour. Watching tourists like columns of ants scuttling across St Mark’s Square and knowing I had a view as good as any pigeon perched on the Campanile, sent my spirits soaring. The sights were breathtaking on both sides of the Giudeca Canal, then churches and palaces shimmered into the distance as we made our way out into the lagoon and the Adriatic Sea beyond.
103
P&O CRUISES CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN
pREvIOuS pAGE grand Canal, Santa Maria della Salute, venice THIS pAGE Murano glass workshop OppOSITE St Mark’s Square, venice
“It is fascinating to watch skilled craftsmen create unique pieces, blowing and twisting the molten glass in their factories and studios.”
TRAvEllER’S TIPS CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN CRUISINg When it comes to cruising this part of the world you can decide whether to sail from Southampton (an option available on the majority of our fleet) or to fly straight out (available on Adonia only), enabling you to see more of this wonderful region. These cruises journey through the Mediterranean and into the Adriatic Sea where, as well as the enchanting city of Venice, you’ll also be able to visit beautiful destinations such as Dubrovnik, Split and Korcula in Croatia; Corfu, Cephalonia and Athens in Greece and Kotor in Montenegro. Because you’re travelling slightly further afield the durations of our Central Mediterranean holidays range from 14 – 21 nights and cruises sail from April through to December, so you can expect mild temperatures in spring and autumn, whilst it should be lovely and hot in the summer. gETTINg ThERE If you are sailing from Southampton then regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. If you opt for a fly-cruise then you can choose to organise your own flights or we can arrange them for you with our Holiday Package Add On. Either way you’ll find more information on getting to and from your ship on page 70. YOUR DAY AShORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. On selected cruises you’ll be able to spend two full days in Venice. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port. CURRENCY Most of the ports of call featured on our Central Mediterranean itineraries have adopted the Euro as their national currency. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS, vISAS AND vACCINATIONS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. If you hold a British Citizen passport then the good news is that you won’t need any visas for any destinations featured on our Central Mediterranean itineraries. However, your passport and visa requirements may differ if you do not hold a British Citizen passport. In particular, non-European passport holders may need to obtain a Schengen visa. You’ll also be pleased to know that there aren’t any compulsory vaccinations required for any of our Central Mediterranean holidays. Please see page 234-235 for further details of visas and vaccinations.
104 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Venice, rising from the lagoon with the elegant snake of the Grand Canal (its main thoroughfare) and the beautiful but baffling network of small canals wriggling off it, is a city that demands to be explored from the water.
views of the lagoon. And just across the calm lagoon is the Lido, the venue for the Venice Film Festival every September and a highly fashionable summer holiday spot from the late-19th to mid-20th centuries. It has two public beaches and bicycles to hire.
There is no more glamorous way to see this timeless city than from the back of a sleek, wood-panelled water taxi. Shame then that I am neither a film star nor a lottery winner – a short hop can easily cost £40 – but I have discovered the next best thing.
To my mind, though, the small islands of Burano, famed for its lace, and Murano, the centre for glass making for more than 700 years, make a far more worthwhile excursion. It is fascinating to watch skilled craftsmen create unique pieces, blowing and twisting the molten glass in their factories and studios.
At Piazzale Roma where cruise ships’ shuttle busses drop off, I catch a slow, number 1 vaporetto and hurry to the open-air section at the back. From this prime spot I have a fabulous 45-minute sightseeing tour all the way down the Grand Canal to St Mark’s Square. Taking pictures of grand palaces and churches, under the bustling Rialto Bridge we go, past the Accademia art gallery and the new and very modern Punta della Dogona art museum in the old customs house at the canal’s end. Alighting at the stop for St Mark’s Square on my last visit, I met a couple who cruise to Venice every year with P&O Cruises and always have lunch at the legendary Cipriani hotel, on the tip of long Giudecca island opposite St Mark’s. Joining them on the hotel’s complimentary private motor launch to its private dock, I had my moment of luxury water travel at last. My new friends were warmly greeted and shown to an elegant table on the terrace, while I opted for a pricey, but delicious pizza at a table by the pool, which would have been worth it just for the stunning
Here you can shop for genuine hand-made artefacts, though don’t expect any great bargains. Tempting though a set of goblets or a glittering chandelier can be, I find the shiny bonbons – old-fashioned wrapped toffees and boiled sweets of coloured glass – to add to my collection, make more practical and affordable souvenirs. The glass museum in a 15th-century palazzo with a pretty courtyard is also well worth a visit. Its exquisite and priceless pieces from Roman times to present day are beautifully displayed. If there is one thing that evokes Venice even more than world famous Venetian glass it must be a ride in a gondola. Yes, it’s a totally touristy cliché, but an irresistible one. Nothing compares to gliding under low bridges steered by a nifty and picturesque gondolier in a hooped blue and white sweater and boater. And, by booking as part of a shore excursion, the unromantic hassle of trying to make sure you aren’t ripped off won’t arise.
To escape the crowds, and it is perfectly possible despite how busy it feels around St Mark’s Square, all you need to do is walk in any direction for a few minutes. Deserted alleyways lead to quiet squares and little bridges over narrow canals. It is a lovely way to soak up the architecture and take gorgeous photos, and wherever I am heading I invariably get lost or distracted. This never matters – except when I have to be back on board by a certain time or – horrors – be left behind. Really though, you can never get truly lost as you’ll soon see a sign saying ‘per San Marco’, ‘per Accademia’ or ‘per Rialto’ pointing the direction of famous landmarks to get your bearings. Even so, my advice for a panic-free end to the day is: estimate how long it will take to reach the ship, and double it. That way there should be time to enjoy a spot of street theatre, do a bit more shopping or have one last cappuccino along the way. Or better still, take a shore excursion and you’ll never have to worry about missing the ship.
TOp FIvE SHORE ExCuRSIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
venice – Venetian Islands and Gondola Civitavecchia – Introduction to Rome Naples – The Ruins of Pompeii Dubrovnik – Charming Cavtat and Dubrovnik Corfu – Leisurely Corfu 105
up to £125 per person on board spending money CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN
17 nights from £1,549† per person
Athens
Zakinthos
Wed 30 Mar – Sat 16 Apr 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x104 17 nights from £1,549†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 16 Apr – Tue 3 May 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x105 17 nights from £1,774†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 26 Apr – Thu 12 May 2011 Azura Hol. No. A110 16 nights from £1,724†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Thu 12 – Sat 28 May 2011 Azura Hol. No. A111 16 nights from £1,824†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 21 May – Mon 6 Jun 2011 Aurora Hol. No. R105 16 nights from £1,874†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Fri 27 May – Mon 13 Jun 2011 ventura Hol. No. N114 17 nights from £1,924†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Wed 30 Mar Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Fri 1 Apr Full Day lisbon – Portugal Sat 2 Apr Full Day Messina – Sicily Tue 5 Apr Full Day Zakinthos – greece Wed 6 Apr Full Day Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Thu 7 Apr Full Day Ephesus (from Kusadasi) – Turkey Fri 8 Apr Full Day Rhodes – greece Sat 9 Apr Full Day Palma – Majorca Tue 12 Apr Full Day Southampton Sat 16 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 16 Apr Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Tue 19 Apr Morning Corfu – greece Fri 22 Apr Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Sat 23 Apr Full Day Split – Croatia Sun 24 Apr Full Day venice – Italy Mon 25 Apr Full Day Naples – Italy Wed 27 Apr Full Day Palma – Majorca Fri 29 Apr Full Day Southampton Tue 3 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 26 Apr Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Fri 29 Apr Afternoon Katakolon (for tours to Olympia) – greece Mon 2 May Full Day Corfu – greece Tue 3 May Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Wed 4 May Full Day venice – Italy Thu 5 May Full Day Korcula – Croatia Fri 6 May Full Day gibraltar Mon 9 May Afternoon Southampton Thu 12 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 12 May Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Sun 15 May Morning Corfu – greece Wed 18 May Full Day Korcula – Croatia Thu 19 May Full Day venice – Italy Fri 20 May TWO fUll DAYS Dubrovnik t – Croatia Sun 22 May Full Day Malaga – Spain Wed 25 May Morning Southampton Sat 28 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 21 May Sail late afternoon Palma – Majorca Wed 25 May Full Day Catania – Sicily Fri 27 May Full Day Cephalonia t – greece Sat 28 May Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Sun 29 May Full Day venice – Italy Mon 30 May Full Day Korcula – Croatia Tue 31 May Full Day Cadiz – Spain Fri 3 Jun Afternoon Southampton Mon 6 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 27 May Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Mon 30 May Afternoon Cephalonia t – greece Thu 2 Jun Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 3 Jun Full Day venice – Italy Sat 4 Jun TWO fUll DAYS Korcula – Croatia Mon 6 Jun Full Day Corfu – greece Tue 7 Jun Full Day vigo – Spain Sat 11 Jun Full Day Southampton Mon 13 Jun Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£10
Inside
£1,799
£250
£10
Inside
£1,899
£125
£10
Inside
£1,849
£125
£10
Inside
£1,949
£125
£10
Inside
£1,999
£125
£10
Inside
£2,049
£125
Outside
£2,199
£320
£20
Outside
£2,299
£160
£20
Single Inside
£2,399
£125
£10
Single Inside
£2,549
£125
£10
Outside
£2,549
£160
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,299
£125
£10
Deluxe Outside
£2,849
£380
£20
Deluxe Outside
£2,949
£190
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,049
£125
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,149
£125
£10
Balcony
£3,349
£190
£60
Outside
£2,599
£160
£20 £60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,749
£500
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,949
£250
£60
Outside
£2,349
£160
£20
Outside
£2,449
£160
£20
Deluxe Balcony
£3,849
£250
£60
Balcony
£3,049
£190
Mini-Suite
£5,149
£630
£125
Mini-Suite
£5,349
£315
£125
Balcony
£2,749
£190
£60
Balcony
£2,899
£190
£60
Mini-Suite
£5,849
£315
£125
Superior Deluxe
£3,549
£250
£60
Suite
£5,949
£630
£125
Suite
£6,249
£315
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,149
£250
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,349
£250
£60
Suite
£7,049
£315
£125
Suite
£4,699
£315
£125
Suite
£4,249
£315
£125
Suite
£4,449
£315
£125
106 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
HOW TO BOOK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
107
CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
16 nights from £1,874† per person
P&O CRUISES CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN
up to £180 per person on board spending money
venice
Dubrovnik
Sun 5 – Tue 21 Jun 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x109 16 nights from £1,974†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Mon 20 Jun – Wed 6 Jul 2011 Aurora Hol. No. R107 16 nights from £1,874†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 5 – Fri 22 Jul 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x111 17 nights from £2,024†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Fri 22 Jul – Fri 7 Aug 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x112 16 nights from £2,074†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 26 Jul – Tue 16 Aug 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D106 21 nights from £2,899†pp up to £180pp on board spending money
Fri 5 – Sun 21 Aug 2011 Azura Hol. No. A118 16 nights from £2,024†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Sun 5 Jun Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Wed 8 Jun Morning Corfu – greece Sat 11 Jun Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Sun 12 Jun Full Day venice – Italy Mon 13 Jun fUll DAY & EvENINg Ravenna – Italy Tue 14 Jun Full Day Kotor t – Montenegro Wed 15 Jun Full Day Malaga – Spain Sat 18 Jun Full Day Southampton Tue 21 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 20 Jun Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Thu 23 Jun Full Day Zakinthos – greece Sun 26 Jun Full Day Corfu – greece Mon 27 Jun Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Tue 28 Jun Full Day venice – Italy Wed 29 Jun Full Day Korcula – Croatia Thu 30 Jun Full Day gibraltar Sun 3 Jul Afternoon Southampton Wed 6 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 5 Jul Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Fri 8 Jul Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Tue 12 Jul Full Day venice – Italy Wed 13 Jul TWO fUll DAYS Split – Croatia Fri 15 Jul Full Day Corfu – greece Sat 16 Jul Full Day Cadiz – Spain Tue 19 Jul Full Day Southampton Fri 22 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 22 Jul Sail late afternoon gibraltar Mon 25 Jul Morning Corfu – greece Thu 28 Jul Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 29 Jul Full Day venice – Italy Sat 30 Jul fUll DAY & EvENINg Koper – Slovenia Sun 31 Jul Full Day Kotor t – Montenegro Mon 1 Aug Full Day Malaga – Spain Thu 4 Aug Full Day Southampton Sun 7 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 26 Jul Sail late afternoon huelva – Spain Fri 29 Jul Full Day Tunis (from la goulette) – Tunisia Mon 1 Aug Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Wed 3 Aug Full Day Zadar – Croatia Thu 4 Aug Full Day venice – Italy Fri 5 Aug Full Day hvar – Croatia Sat 6 Aug Full Day Corfu – greece Mon 8 Aug Full Day Catania – Sicily Tue 9 Aug Full Day Malaga – Spain Fri 12 Aug Full Day Praia da Rocha – Portugal Sat 13 Aug Full Day Southampton Tue 16 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 5 Aug Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Mon 8 Aug Afternoon Cephalonia t – greece Thu 11 Aug Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 12 Aug Full Day venice – Italy Sat 13 Aug Full Day Korcula – Croatia Sun 14 Aug Full Day Corfu – greece Mon 15 Aug Full Day vigo – Spain Fri 19 Aug Full Day Southampton Sun 21 Aug Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232
Music festival at Sea – see page 53
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
family Choice Cruise – see page 232 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,099
£125
£10
Inside
£1,999
£125
£10
Inside
£2,149
£125
£10
Inside
£2,199
£125
£10
Inside
£3,049
£150
£15
Inside
£2,149
£125
£10
Outside
£2,549
£160
£20
Outside
£2,599
£160
£20
Outside
£2,649
£160
£20
Outside
£2,549
£160
£20
Outside obstructed view
£3,199
£150
£15
Single Inside
£2,549
£125
£10
Deluxe Outside
£3,299
£190
£20
Balcony
£3,349
£190
£60
Deluxe Outside
£3,449
£190
£20
Deluxe Outside
£3,349
£190
£20
Outside
£3,799
£190
£30
Outside obstructed view
£2,399
£125
£10
Deluxe Balcony
£4,399
£250
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,849
£250
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£4,599
£250
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£4,299
£250
£60
Balcony
£4,549
£225
£90
Outside
£2,749
£160
£20
Mini-Suite
£6,049
£315
£125
Mini-Suite
£5,849
£315
£125
Mini-Suite
£6,349
£315
£125
Mini-Suite
£6,049
£315
£125
Suite
£10,999
£375
£180
Balcony
£3,149
£190
£60
Suite
£6,999
£315
£125
Suite
£6,999
£315
£125
Suite
£7,349
£315
£125
Suite
£6,999
£315
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,649
£250
£60
Suite
£4,899
£315
£125
108 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
HOW TO BOOK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
109
16 nights from £2,024† per person
Korcula
MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN
up to £125 per person on board spending money
Split
Fri 12 – Sun 28 Aug 2011 Aurora Hol. No. R111 16 nights from £2,024†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Fri 19 Aug – Sun 4 Sep 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x114 16 nights from £2,074†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Fri 2 – Sun 18 Sep 2011 Azura Hol. No. A120 16 nights from £2,024†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Fri 12 Aug Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Sun 14 Aug Full Day Cephalonia t – greece Thu 18 Aug Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 19 Aug Full Day venice – Italy Sat 20 Aug Full Day Split – Croatia Sun 21 Aug Full Day Palermo – Italy Tue 23 Aug Full Day gibraltar Thu 25 Aug Afternoon Southampton Sun 28 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 19 Aug Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Mon 22 Aug Morning Corfu – greece Thu 25 Aug Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 26 Aug Full Day venice – Italy Sat 27 Aug Full Day Naples – Italy Mon 29 Aug Full Day Oporto – Portugal Fri 2 Sep Full Day Southampton Sun 4 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 2 Sep Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Mon 5 Sep Afternoon Cephalonia t – greece Thu 8 Sep Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 9 Sep Full Day venice – Italy Sat 10 Sep Full Day Korcula – Croatia Sun 11 Sep Full Day Corfu – greece Mon 12 Sep Full Day vigo – Spain Fri 16 Sep Full Day Southampton Sun 18 Sep Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 family Choice Cruise – see page 232
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,149
£125
£10
Inside
£2,199
£125
£10
Inside
£2,149
£125
£10
Outside
£2,649
£160
£20
Outside
£2,549
£160
£20
Single Inside
£2,849
£125
£10
Balcony
£3,399
£190
£60
Deluxe Outside
£3,299
£190
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,399
£125
£10
Deluxe Balcony
£3,899
£250
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£4,249
£250
£60
Outside
£2,699
£160
£20
Mini-Suite
£6,049
£315
£125
Mini-Suite
£5,999
£315
£125
Balcony
£3,099
£190
£60
Suite
£7,299
£315
£125
Suite
£6,949
£315
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,649
£250
£60
Suite
£4,849
£315
£125
110 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
HOW TO BOOK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
111
CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN
16 nights from £1,299† per person
P&O CRUISES CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN
up to £125 per person on board spending money
Ravenna
Rhodes
SEASONAL SAvER Sun 11 – Tue 27 Sep 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x116 16 nights from £1,924†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 24 Sep – Mon 10 Oct 2011 Arcadia Hol. No. J110 16 nights from £1,824†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 27 Sep – Fri 14 Oct 2011 Azura Hol. No. A122 17 nights from £1,874†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sat 15 Oct – Tue 1 Nov 2011 Aurora Hol. No. R115 17 nights from £1,624†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Mon 31 Oct – Wed 16 Nov 2011 Oriana Hol. No. x118 16 nights from £1,299†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Sun 11 Sep Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Wed 14 Sep Morning Corfu – greece Sat 17 Sep Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Sun 18 Sep Full Day venice – Italy Mon 19 Sep fUll DAY & EvENINg Ravenna – Italy Tue 20 Sep Full Day Kotor t – Montenegro Wed 21 Sep Full Day Malaga – Spain Sat 24 Sep Full Day Southampton Tue 27 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 24 Sep Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Tue 27 Sep Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 30 Sep Full Day venice – Italy Sat 1 Oct Full Day Korcula – Croatia Sun 2 Oct Full Day Corfu – greece Mon 3 Oct Full Day Zakinthos – greece Tue 4 Oct Full Day gibraltar Fri 7 Oct Morning Southampton Mon 10 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 27 Sep Sail late afternoon vigo – Spain Thu 29 Sep Full Day Corfu – greece Mon 3 Oct Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Tue 4 Oct Full Day venice – Italy Wed 5 Oct Full Day Katakolon (for tours to Olympia) – greece Fri 7 Oct Full Day Cadiz – Spain Mon 10 Oct Full Day lisbon – Portugal Tue 11 Oct Full Day Southampton Fri 14 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 15 Oct Sail late afternoon valencia – Spain Wed 19 Oct Full Day Palma – Majorca Thu 20 Oct Full Day Corfu – greece Sun 23 Oct Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Mon 24 Oct Full Day venice – Italy Tue 25 Oct Full Day Palermo – Sicily Thu 27 Oct Full Day Oporto – Portugal Sun 30 Oct Full Day Southampton Tue 1 Nov Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 31 Oct Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Thu 3 Nov Full Day Rhodes – greece Mon 7 Nov Full Day Ephesus (from Kusadasi) – Turkey Tue 8 Nov Full Day Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Wed 9 Nov Full Day Tunis (from la goulette) – Tunisia Fri 11 Nov Full Day Oporto – Portugal Mon 14 Nov Full Day Southampton Wed 16 Nov Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232
Music festival at Sea – see page 53
Stateroom Type Inside
SEASONAL SAvER – see page 232 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,949
£125
£10
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£125
£10
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£2,049
£125
£10
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,999
£125
£10
Inside
£1,749
£125
£10
Inside
£1,549
£250
£10
Single Inside
£2,349
£125
£10
Outside
£2,199
£160
£20
Outside
£1,849
£320
£20
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Outside
£2,499
Deluxe Outside
£3,249
£190
£20
Outside
£2,449
£160
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,249
£125
£10
Balcony
£2,899
£190
£60
Deluxe Outside
£2,449
£380
£20
Deluxe Balcony
£4,299
£250
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£2,949
£250
£60
Outside
£2,549
£160
£20
Deluxe Balcony
£3,299
£250
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,199
£500
£60
Mini-Suite
£5,949
£315
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,699
£315
£125
Balcony
£2,999
£190
£60
Mini-Suite
£4,999
£315
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,449
£630
£125
Suite
£6,899
£315
£125
Suite
£4,949
£315
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,449
£250
£60
Suite
£5,949
£315
£125
Suite
£5,149
£630
£125
Suite
£4,599
£315
£125
£160
112 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
HOW TO BOOK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. Seasonal Saver has been applied where applicable. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
113
14 nights from £1,499∆ per person
P&O CRUISES CENTRAl MEDITERRANEAN
Santorini
up to £125 per person on board spending money
hvar
Tue 8 – Tue 22 Nov 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D112 14 nights from £1,599∆pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 6 – Tue 20 Dec 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D114 14 nights from £1,499∆pp up to £125pp on board spending money
fly to Savona – Italy from gatwick or Manchester Tue 8 Nov Sail late afternoon Portofino – Italy Wed 9 Nov Full Day florence/Pisa (from livorno) – Italy Thu 10 Nov Full Day Rome (from Civitavecchia) – Italy Fri 11 Nov Full Day Sorrento – Italy Sat 12 Nov Full Day Catania – Sicily Sun 13 Nov Full Day Malta gC Mon 14 Nov Full Day Nauplia – greece Wed 16 Nov Full Day Antalya t – Turkey Fri 18 Nov Full Day Rhodes – greece Sat 19 Nov Full Day Izmir – Turkey Sun 20 Nov Full Day Athens (from Piraeus) – greece fUll DAY & EvENINg Tue 22 Nov Disembark and fly to UK. UK fly to UK Same airport as departure
fly to Trieste – Italy from gatwick or Manchester Tue 6 Dec Sail late afternoon venice – Italy Wed 7 Dec fUll DAY & EvENINg Koper – Slovenia Thu 8 Dec Full Day hvar – Croatia Fri 9 Dec Full Day bari – Italy Sat 10 Dec Full Day Katakolon (for tours to Olympia) – greece Mon 12 Dec Full Day Nauplia – greece Tue 13 Dec Full Day Istanbul – Turkey Thu 15 Dec Full Day Mytilene – greece Fri 16 Dec Full Day Ephesus (from Kusadasi) – Turkey Sat 17 Dec Full Day Rhodes – greece Sun 18 Dec Full Day Santorini – greece Mon 19 Dec Full Day Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Tue 20 Dec Disembark and fly to UK. UK fly to UK Same airport as departure
Stateroom Type
Cruise only Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,699
£100
Outside obstructed view
£1,799
Outside
£2,049
Balcony
£2,549
Suite
£6,049
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
hOlIDAY PACKAgE ADD-ON INClUDES: • International economy flights to/from London • Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on dates specified • Hotel rooms and meals where flight timings require an overnight stay either before or after your cruise See page 232 for more details.
Stateroom Type
Cruise only Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£10
Inside
£1,599
£100
£10
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,699
£100
£10
£125
£20
Outside
£1,949
£125
£20
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,399
£150
£60
£250
£125
Suite
£5,749
£250
£125
£99 8 Nov 11 22 Nov 11 14 £1,698°
114 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
£99 6 Dec 11 20 Dec 11 14 £1,598°
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. ∆ Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and excludes Holiday Package Add On. ° Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Holiday Package Add On.
HOW TO BOOK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
115
P&O CRUISES EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN
Traveller’s tips EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN CRUISING When it comes to cruising this part of the world you can decide whether to sail from Southampton on Aurora, Arcadia and Oceana or fly-cruise with Adonia, enabling you to see more of this wonderful region. These cruises journey to the Eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea, some even traverse the Aegean Sea and the Bosphorus Strait en route to destinations in the Black Sea including Odessa and Yalta in the Ukraine. Journeying to the Eastern Mediterranean gives you the opportunity to come face to face with ancient civilisations and intriguing cultures in places like Cairo, Giza, Ephesus, Haifa, Ashdod and, of course, Istanbul.
A buyer’s
market
Because you’re travelling slightly further afield the durations of our Eastern Mediterranean holidays range from 14 – 26 nights and cruises typically sail in autumn and winter, but the temperature at this time of year should be reasonably mild compared to the UK. GETTING THERE If you are sailing from Southampton then regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. If you opt for an Adonia fly-cruise then you can choose to arrange your own flights or we can arrange them for you with our Holiday Package Add-On (see page 232 for details). Either way you’ll find more information on getting to and from your ship on page 70.
From atmospheric ancient bazaars to worldclass malls, Istanbul is a shoppers’ paradise. And being outside the euro zone means you can pick up some bargains too, says Liz Bird.
YOUR DAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port.
W
alking through the Grand Bazaar feels like an assault on your senses. Tea waiters armed with fragrant apple tea scuttle past the labyrinth of stalls selling glittering gold and silver, colourful textiles and ceramics while traders vie for your attention and the intoxicating scent of exotic spices hangs in the air. The covered bazaar, or Kapali Carsi, first opened its doors to traders in 1461 and now boasts more than 4,500 shops selling everything from jewellery and carpets to leather and antiques intermingled with cafés, restaurants and ancient architecture (head to the one of the oldest parts, Cevahir Bedesten to admire the 15th century exposed brick dome ceiling). Organised on a street grid system, it’s less daunting than it might first seem with vendors grouped by their merchandise. The Inner Bazaar, or Ic Bedesten, sells antiques. To the north and west are carpets; south and east are jewellers and gold and silver merchants, and to the far west are fabrics and leather. Be prepared to haggle for everything and don’t be afraid to walk away if traders won’t come down on price; chances are they’ll chase you down the street and accept your final offer. While the bazaar has its fair share of fake handbags, it’s not all tourist tat. Try Sivasli Yazmaci on Yaglikcilar Caddesi for hand-printed fabrics used by fashion designers such as Donna Karan and Jean-Paul Gaultier, or silversmith Barocco on Kalicilar Han 31 for affordable to eye-wateringly expensive silver creations. If you start to fade, the Fez Café on Halicilar Caddesi just north of the Inner Bazaar is a good place for a caffeine fix. Don’t miss the nearby Egyptian Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi; closed on Sundays, like the Grand Bazaar) at Eminonu selling every spice you’ll ever need, juicy olives, dried fruits, nuts, tea and, of course, lokum, or Turkish Delight. One of the best places to buy it is the city’s oldest confectioner, Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir, which sells a multitude of flavours such as pistachio, orange and rose water. Rest your weary feet and tuck into grilled fish and kofte at Pandeli, set in lavishly tiled domed rooms above the Spice Bazaar. If you want to buy some good quality crafts in a less frenetic setting than the Spice or Grand Bazaar, head to the Istanbul Handicrafts Center at Sanatlari Carsisi. Set in an 18th century mansion with a pretty courtyard, you can watch the artisans at work and buy their ceramics, embroidery, miniature paintings and calligraphy. 116 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Top five shore excursions: 1. Port Said – Cairo and the Pyramids 2. Istanbul – St Sophia, Blue Mosque and Bazaar 3. Piraeus – The Acropolis and the Plaka 4. Kusadasi – Glory of Ephesus 5. Katakolon – The Olympic Spirit
Once upon a time the Grand Bazaar was the only place to shop but now a host of modern malls has sprung up across the Golden Horn in modern Istanbul. These include the futuristic Kanyon, shaped like a canyon, in the upmarket Levent district, which houses Turkey’s first Harvey Nichols as well as well-known brands such as Mango, Banana Republic, Max Mara and Lacoste. The Sisli district is also home to the Cevahir, Europe’s second biggest mall after London’s Westfield. With high street names such as Debenhams, Accessorize, Top Shop and Miss Selfridge, you’ll feel right at home. For more independent boutiques and atmosphere, try the pedestrianised streets of Istiklal Caddesi in Taksim, a bustling promenade of boutiques, clothes, record and bookshops, as well as cafés and restaurants. Don’t miss Ipek on Istiklal, which sells beautiful scarves and ties and Mavi, Turkey’s sought-after denim designer. Portobello, on nearby Cihangir Caddesi, is an Aladdin’s cave of antiques and curios. Northeast of Taksim is the trendy neighbourhood of Nisantasi where chic boutiques sit alongside international brands such as Accessorize, Beymen – a Turkish version of Harvey Nicks – and upmarket cafés. This is also a good area for local designer boutiques such as Gonul Paksoy, who sells hand dyed silk and cotton clothes from her shop at Aitye Sokak 6A in neighbouring Tesvikiye. Once the centre of ancient trading routes between east and west, it’s nice to know Istanbul hasn’t lost its touch. Shopping is still in the lifeblood of the city.
CURRENCY You’ll need a mix of currencies depending on which itinerary you choose. A fair few of the ports of call featured on our Eastern Mediterranean itineraries have adopted the Euro as their national currency however, when you go ashore in Turkey you may want to take some Turkish Lira as spending money, although the Euro and US Dollar are accepted in many tourist areas, particularly in Istanbul. For Cairo and Giza you’ll need Egyptian Pounds. American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted, but generally only in restaurants in Cairo and other tourist areas. You may avoid additional exchange rate charges by using traveller’s cheques in US Dollars, Euros or Pounds Sterling. You’ll need the Dinar in Libya and the Hryvnya in the Ukraine, especially as traveller’s cheques and credit cards are not accepted. The currency in Israel is New Shekel, although both credit cards and traveller’s cheques in US Dollars are widely accepted. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND VACCINATIONS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. At the time of writing, there are some specific requirements for calls into Tripoli in Libya but these are subject to change. Confirmed details will be sent to you approximately 8 to 10 weeks prior to departure. Your passport and visa requirements may differ if you do not hold a British Citizen passport. In particular, non-European passport holders may need to obtain a Schengen visa. You’ll be pleased to know that no vaccinations are compulsory for any of our Eastern Mediterranean holidays. Full details on passport and visa information can be found on page 234 and it is important that you read this information before you book your cruise.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, traditional Turkish decorative pottery, spices for sale in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
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Ephesus
Up to £200 per person on board spending money
14 nights from £1,499∆ per person
Istanbul
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN & blACK SEA
P&O CRUISES EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN & blACK SEA
SEASONAL SAvER Sun 28 Aug – Sun 18 Sep 2011 Aurora Hol. No. R112 21 nights from £2,549†pp up to £180pp on board spending money
Fri 16 Sep – Wed 12 Oct 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D109 26 nights from £3,424†pp up to £200pp on board spending money
Mon 10 – Sat 29 Oct 2011 Arcadia Hol. No. J111 19 nights from £1,824†pp up to £180pp on board spending money
Mon 21 Nov – Thu 15 Dec 2011 Oceana Hol. No. E131 24 nights from £2,049†pp up to £180pp on board spending money
Tue 22 Nov – Tue 6 Dec 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D113 14 nights from £1,499∆pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Sun 28 Aug Sail late afternoon Oporto – Portugal Tue 30 Aug Full Day Alicante – Spain Thu 1 Sep Full Day Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Sun 4 Sep Full Day Istanbul – Turkey Mon 5 Sep AfTERNOON & fUll DAY Constanza – Romania Wed 7 Sep Full Day Odessa – Ukraine Thu 8 Sep Full Day Yalta t – Ukraine Fri 9 Sep Full Day Ephesus (from Kusadasi) – Turkey Sun 11 Sep Full Day Palma – Majorca Wed 14 Sep Full Day Southampton Sun 18 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 16 Sep Sail late afternoon Almeria – Spain Tue 20 Sep Morning gythion – greece Fri 23 Sep Full Day Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Sat 24 Sep Full Day Ephesus (from Kusadasi) – Turkey Sun 25 Sep Full Day Mytilene – greece Mon 26 Sep Full Day Istanbul – Turkey Tue 27 Sep Full Day bourgas – bulgaria Wed 28 Sep Full Day Yalta – Ukraine Fri 30 Sep Full Day Odessa – Ukraine Sat 1 Oct Full Day Constanza – Romania Sun 2 Oct Full Day Samos – greece Tue 4 Oct Full Day Malta gC Thu 6 Oct Full Day Alicante – Spain Sat 8 Oct Full Day Southampton Wed 12 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 10 Oct Sail late afternoon Malaga – Spain Thu 13 Oct Afternoon Katakolon (for tours to Olympia) – greece Sun 16 Oct Full Day Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Mon 17 Oct Full Day Cairo/giza (from Port Said) – Egypt Wed 19 Oct Full Day Alexandria – Egypt Thu 20 Oct Full Day Tripoli – libya Sun 23 Oct Full Day Malta gC Mon 24 Oct Morning Oporto – Portugal Thu 27 Oct Full Day Southampton Sat 29 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 21 Nov Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Fri 25 Nov Full Day Tripoli – libya Mon 28 Nov Full Day Cairo/giza (from Port Said) – Egypt Thu 1 Dec Full Day limassol – Cyprus Fri 2 Dec Full Day Ashdod – Israel Sat 3 Dec Full Day haifa – Israel Sun 4 Dec fUll DAY & EvENINg Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Tue 6 Dec Full Day Katakolon (for tours to Olympia) – greece Wed 7 Dec Full Day Messina – Sicily Thu 8 Dec Full Day valencia – Spain Sat 10 Dec Full Day lisbon – Portugal Mon 12 Dec Full Day Southampton Thu 15 Dec Arrive early morning
fly to Athens (from Piraeus) – greece from gatwick or Manchester Tue 22 Nov Sail late afternoon volos – greece Wed 23 Nov Full Day Thessaloniki – greece Thu 24 Nov Full Day Ephesus (from Kusadasi) – Turkey Fri 25 Nov fUll DAY & EvENINg bodrum – Turkey Sun 27 Nov Full Day Patmos – greece Mon 28 Nov Full Day Cephalonia t – greece Wed 30 Nov Full Day Corfu – greece Thu 1 Dec Full Day Dubrovnik t – Croatia Fri 2 Dec Full Day Split – Croatia Sat 3 Dec Full Day
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,699
£150
£15
Outside
£3,449
£190
£30
Balcony
£4,499
£225
Deluxe Balcony
£5,199
Mini-Suite
£7,749
Suite
£9,299
£375
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,949
£125
£15
Stateroom Type
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,599
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,699
£100
£10
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 SEASONAL SAvER – see page 232
£2,399
£350
£15
£15
Outside obstructed view
£2,849
£350
£15
£30
Outside
£2,949
£440
£30
£250
£90
Balcony
£3,549
£530
£90
£315
£180
Mini-Suite
£5,699
£880
£180
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration
£315
£180
Suite
£6,849
£880
£180
Full holiday package from
£3,599
£175
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,149
£125
£90
Outside obstructed view
£3,799
£175
£20
Outside
£2,499
£160
£300
£90
Outside
£4,449
£220
£40
Deluxe Balcony
£2,899
£375
£180
Balcony
£5,449
£265
£100
Mini-Suite
£4,499
£180
Suite
£12,999
£440
£200
Suite
£4,799
118 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Early Bird Savings
Inside
Inside
HOW TO BOOK
guide to Symbols land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside
Cruise only Fares from
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
• International economy flights to/from London • Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on dates specified • Hotel rooms and meals where flight timings require an overnight stay either before or after your cruise See page 232 for more details.
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
Early Bird Savings
Stateroom Type
hOlIDAY PACKAgE ADD-ON INClUDES:
Music festival at Sea – see page 53
Fares from
Fares from
On Board Spending Money
Zadar – Croatia Sun 4 Dec Full Day venice – Italy Mon 5 Dec fUll DAY & EvENINg Trieste – Italy Tue 6 Dec Disembark and fly to UK. UK fly to UK Same airport as departure
Outside
£1,999
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,449
£150
£60
Suite
£5,799
£250
£125
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
£99 22 Nov 11 6 Dec 11 14 £1,598°
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. Seasonal Saver has been applied where applicable. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable. ‡ Not applicable to fly-cruises. ∆ Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and excludes Holiday Package Add On. ° Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Holiday Package Add On.
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
119
giza
CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR’S CRuISE
SEASONAL SAvER
Tue 20 Dec 2011 – Tue 3 Jan 2012 Adonia Hol. No. D115 14 nights from £1,849∆pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Sun 26 Feb – Wed 21 Mar 2012 Oceana Hol. No. E203 24 nights from £1,999†pp up to £180pp on board spending money
fly to Athens (from Piraeus) – greece from gatwick or Manchester Tue 20 Dec Sail late afternoon limassol – Cyprus Thu 22 Dec Full Day haifa – Israel Fri 23 Dec Full Day Ashdod – Israel Sat 24 Dec Full Day Cairo/giza (from Port Said) – Egypt Mon 26 Dec Full Day Alexandria – Egypt Tue 27 Dec Full Day Tripoli – libya Fri 30 Dec Full Day Malta gC Sat 31 Dec Full Day Salerno – Italy Mon 2 Jan Full Day Naples – Italy Tue 3 Jan Disembark and fly to UK. UK fly to UK Same airport as departure
Southampton Sun 26 Feb Sail late afternoon Cadiz – Spain Wed 29 Feb Full Day Tripoli – libya Sat 3 Mar Full Day Cairo/giza (from Port Said) – Egypt Tue 6 Mar Full Day limassol – Cyprus Wed 7 Mar Full Day Ashdod – Israel Thu 8 Mar Full Day haifa – Israel Fri 9 Mar fUll DAY & EvENINg Athens (from Piraeus) – greece Sun 11 Mar Full Day Katakolon (for tours to Olympia) – greece Mon 12 Mar Full Day Messina – Sicily Tue 13 Mar Full Day valencia – Spain Thu 15 Mar Full Day lisbon – Portugal Sat 17 Mar Full Day Southampton Wed 21 Mar Arrive early morning
Stateroom Type
Cruise only Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,949
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,049
£100
£10
Outside
£2,349
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,949
£150
£60
Suite
£7,049
£250
£125
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
120 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/MEDITERRANEAN
Up to £180 per person on board spending money
14 nights from £1,849∆ per person
Jerusalem (from Ashdod)
HOW TO BOOK
£99 20 Dec 11 3 Jan 12 14 £1,948°
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN & blACK SEA MEDITERRANEAN
P&O CRUISES EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN & blACK SEA
hOlIDAY PACKAgE ADD-ON INClUDES: • International economy flights to/from London • Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on dates specified • Hotel rooms and meals where flight timings require an overnight stay either before or after your cruise See page 232 for more details. Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,349
£350
£15
Outside obstructed view
£2,849
£350
£15
Outside
£2,999
£440
£30
Balcony
£3,599
£530
£90
Mini-Suite
£5,699
£880
£180
Suite
£6,849
£880
£180
Stateroom Type
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
bY PhONE on 0845 3 555 333
SEASONAL SAvER – see page 232 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. Seasonal Saver has been applied where applicable. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable. ‡ Not applicable to fly-cruises. ∆ Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and excludes Holiday Package Add On. ° Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Holiday Package Add On.
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
121
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN
Where life’s
a beach
From silver white sands to awesome surf, the shores of the Caribbean are simply unbeatable, says PHILIP DODD
T
here are as many reasons to go to the Caribbean as there are islands dotted across its waters. You can dance to calypso, soca or reggae, watch test cricket under a cloudless sky, sip a welcome planter’s punch at the end of another gorgeous day or marvel at nature’s kaleidoscope of flora and fauna. But perhaps the best reason of all is the infinite variety of beaches on offer – tiny horseshoes of sand tucked away in craggy coves, vast sweeps of pure white bliss and surf beaches, where pounding waves crash in from the Atlantic. Where better to start than the north coast of Jamaica, stretching either side of the port of Ocho Rios. This is James Bond country: Ian Fleming wrote the novels in his villa Goldeneye, a 20-minute drive outside the town, and the relatively secluded beach at Oracabessa nearby is known as James Bond Beach. Owned by Island Records boss Chris Blackwell, the beach has a bandstand to add a musical flourish. After all, Bob Marley was born just a hop, skip and a groove away in the parish of St Ann.
122 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
123
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN TRAvEllER’S TIPS
“If you can bear to tear yourself away, Dunn’s River Falls is a refreshing alternative600ft-high staircase of chilled cascades and lagoons tumbling straight into the Caribbean through shady vegetation”
CARIBBEAN CRUISING P&O Cruises offer three types of Caribbean holiday. FLY-CRUISE; fly from the UK and board your ship in the Caribbean. TRANSATLANTIC; the classic cruise experience. Sail one way, fly the other. NO FLY; not an airport in sight. Board in Southampton and enjoy a leisurely round trip to the Caribbean. Durations range from 13 – 36 nights and sail from October through to March. At this time of year you can expect it to be lovely and warm, although the Caribbean is known for its dramatic showers. GETTING THERE All fly-cruise and transatlantic holidays are inclusive of flights – on outbound flights, your luggage will be collected from the airport and dropped off outside your stateroom on board your ship. Your choice of departure airports include London Gatwick, Manchester and either East Midlands or Birmingham, flights from all of these airports are included in the price of your holiday. Plus you can choose from a number of regional alternatives (a £49 roundtrip surcharge is payable for regional departures). On fly-cruises the baggage restriction will be 23kg per person. Our no fly holidays sail directly from Southampton. Regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring. For more information on getting to and from your ship turn to page 70. ISlAND HOPPING On a typical 15 night cruise you can expect to visit nine different Caribbean islands. Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port. CURRENCY Even though each island has its own currency, the US dollar is accepted almost everywhere. Nearly all major credit cards are accepted throughout the islands, but it’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for bargaining with market vendors. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account.
Top FIVE shorE ExCursIons: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Antigua – Best of Antigua Barbados – Coast to Coast St Maarten – Explorer Cruise and Island Tortola – Beautiful BVI St lucia – Land and Sea Adventure
In Ocho Rios itself, Mahogany Beach is a short walk from the centre and quieter than the two best-known beaches, Mallards and Turtle. If you can bear to tear yourself away, Dunn’s River Falls is a refreshing alternative – a 600ft-high staircase of chilled cascades and lagoons tumbling straight into the Caribbean through shady vegetation. Guides will help you up the falls by making a human chain for the half-hour climb to the top – pack some old trainers or rent rubber water shoes when you get there. As you approach St Lucia, scan the horizon for a first glimpse of the island’s trademark twin spiky mountains, the jungle-covered Grand and Petit Pitons. They loom over the beaches and fishing ports to the south of Castries, the main port and the capital of this beautiful island full of banana and cocoa plantations and lush botanical gardens. Many of the best beaches are within easy reach of the port (as is the world’s only ‘drive-in volcano’, Sulphur Springs, a collection of craters with bubbling water and a distinct whiff in the air). Rodney Bay, north of Castries, is a
124 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
quintessential Caribbean beach but one of its best features is the local food to be found in the beachside restaurants. Washed down with a Piton beer or some mango and guava juice, it’s the perfect antidote to a workout on a pedalo. The proud claim of the Antigua Tourist Board is that their island has 365 beaches, one for every day of the year (as long as it’s not a leap year, of course) and nobody seems to dispute this, presumably because they couldn’t bear to leave the very first silvery white beach they encountered. Antigua is a small island though, with an area of just 108 square miles, so it is easy to sample at least a few. Each beach has its fan club: snorkellers might prefer the coral gardens of Paradise Reef, north of Dickenson Bay; windsurfers the powerful surf of Half Moon Bay, a public park on the southeast coast; Pigeon’s Point, not far from English Harbour, is a favourite with the locals. For a break from the sand, St John’s, the cheery capital and hometown of the great cricketer Sir Viv Richards, offers a refuge in the cool interior of the baroque cathedral.
If it’s peace and tranquillity you’re after, then St Kitts is for you. The island was for a long time off the visitor trail, and its beaches can still be pleasantly uncrowded. The golden sands of Frigate Bay South are lapped by calm waters, ideal for swimmers. On the southeast peninsula, Banana Bay is a romantic dream; a trip up to Brimstone Hill Fortress offers one of the best panoramas in the whole Caribbean area, with views inward to the rainforest interior of the island and out to half a dozen other islands, including St Barts, St Martin and Montserrat. For something really quite striking, Dominica – a wild, green island, less developed than many of its neighbours – has beaches with volcanic jet black sand. While the beach at Douglas Bay, with its rocky underwater vistas, is perfect for snorkellers, do leave time to explore the island’s gorgeous natural reserves (Cabrits National Park is one of the best), which provide scenery as refreshing as that next daiquiri.
PASSPORTS AND vISAS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return. Children must have their own passport. If you are visiting the USA (including St Thomas & San Juan) you’ll find that the US Department of Homeland Security operates a Visa Waiver Program for certain countries, the UK being one. So if you have a British Citizen passports and are planning to visit under the Visa Waiver Program it is a mandatory requirement for you to complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before you travel. The form is online and can be accessed by visiting https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov Full details on USA passport and visa information can be found on page 234-235 and it is important that you read this information before you book your cruise. vACCINATIONS No vaccinations are compulsory for any Caribbean holidays but there is a risk of malarial transmission in the Dominican Republic and Honduras. If you are travelling on the following cruises; Aurora cruise R118 and Ventura cruises N131/A, N202/A and N203/A, it is recommended that you seek advice from a Travel Medicine Clinic. For further information see page 235. Please see page 234-235 for further details of visas and vaccinations.
prEVIous pAGE Caribbean beach ABoVE LEFT Panoramic view towards English Harbour from Shirley Heights, Antigua ABoVE Dunn’s River Falls, Ocho Rios
125
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
15 nights from £1,199† per person
St lucia
THE CARIBBEAN
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN
Bonaire
sEAsonAL sAVEr
sEAsonAL sAVEr
Fri 21 oct – sat 5 nov 2011 Ventura hol. no. n127 15 nights from £1,199†pp
Fri 28 oct – sat 12 nov 2011 Azura hol. no. A124 15 nights from £1,249†pp
Fri 4 – sat 19 nov 2011 Ventura hol. no. n128 15 nights from £1,549†pp
Fri 11 – sat 26 nov 2011 Azura hol. no. A125 15 nights from £1,649†pp
Fri 18 nov – sat 3 Dec 2011 Ventura hol. no. n129 15 nights from £1,449†pp
Fri 25 nov – sat 10 Dec 2011 Azura hol. no. A126 15 nights from £1,599†pp
Fri 21 oct – sun 6 nov 2011 Ventura hol. no. n127A 16 nights from £1,349†pp
Fri 28 oct – sun 13 nov 2011 Azura hol. no. A124A 16 nights from £1,399†pp
sat 5 – sun 20 nov 2011 Ventura hol. no. n128A 15 nights from £1,549†pp
sat 12 – sun 27 nov 2011 Azura hol. no. A125A 15 nights from £1,649†pp
sat 19 nov – sun 4 Dec 2011 Ventura hol. no. n129A 15 nights from £1,449†pp
sat 26 nov – sun 11 Dec 2011 Azura hol. no. A126A 15 nights from £1,599†pp
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
Southampton Fri 21 Oct Sail late afternoon Madeira Mon 24 Oct EvENING & MORNING Tortola – British virgin Islands Mon 31 Oct Full Day Antigua Tue 1 Nov Full Day St lucia Wed 2 Nov Full Day Grenada Thu 3 Nov Full Day Barbados Fri 4/Sat 5 Nov Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham
Southampton Fri 28 Oct Sail late afternoon Madeira Tue 1 Nov Full Day Antigua Mon 7 Nov Full Day St Maarten Tue 8 Nov Full Day St Kitts Wed 9 Nov Full Day St lucia Thu 10 Nov Full Day Barbados Fri 11/Sat 12 Nov Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 4/Sat 5 Nov Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St Maarten Mon 7 Nov Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 8 Nov Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 10 Nov Full Day St Kitts h Sat 12 Nov Full Day Antigua Sun 13 Nov Full Day St lucia Mon 14 Nov Full Day Dominica Wed 16 Nov Full Day St vincent Thu 17 Nov Full Day Barbados Fri 18/Sat 19 Nov Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester Barbados Fri 11/Sat 12 Nov Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Bonaire – Dutch Antilles Mon 14 Nov Full Day Aruba Tue 15 Nov Full Day Ocho Rios – Jamaica Thu 17 Nov Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Sat 19 Nov Full Day St Maarten Mon 21 Nov Full Day Antigua Tue 22 Nov Full Day Dominica Wed 23 Nov Full Day St lucia Thu 24 Nov Full Day Barbados Fri 25/Sat 26 Nov Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands, Belfast Barbados Fri 18/Sat 19 Nov Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Curacao – Dutch Antilles Mon 21 Nov Full Day Aruba Tue 22 Nov Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 24 Nov Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 26 Nov Full Day St Maarten Sun 27 Nov Full Day St Kitts h Mon 28 Nov Full Day St lucia Wed 30 Nov Full Day Grenada Thu 1 Dec Full Day Barbados Fri 2/Sat 3 Dec Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands, Glasgow Barbados Fri 25/Sat 26 Nov Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St Maarten Mon 28 Nov Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 29 Nov Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 1 Dec Full Day St Kitts Sat 3 Dec Full Day Antigua Sun 4 Dec Full Day St lucia Mon 5 Dec Full Day Dominica Wed 7 Dec Full Day St vincent Thu 8 Dec Full Day Barbados Fri 9/Sat 10 Dec Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
For flight information turn to page 70 Guide to Symbols h land by tender ship usually berthed alongside
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 n127
n127A
Fares from
Fares from
sEAsonAL sAVEr – see page 232
Stateroom Type
A124
A124A
Fares from
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,449
£1,599
£200
£10
£1,399 £1,549
£200
£10
Single Inside
£1,799
£1,949
£200
£10
Outside obstructed view £1,599 £1,699
£200
£10
Outside obstructed view £1,649
£1,749
£200
£250
£20
Outside
£1,849
£1,949
£250
Stateroom Type Inside Outside
£1,799
£1,899
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,749
£100
£10
Single Inside
£2,199
£100
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,899
£100
£125
£20
Outside
£2,149
£125
Stateroom Type Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,649
£100
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£100
£20
Outside
£2,049
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,699
£100
£10
£2,099
£100
£10
Fares from
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
Inside
£1,549
£100
£10
Single Inside
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,749
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£100
£10
£20
Outside
£1,949
£125
£20
Outside
£2,099
£125
£20 £60
Stateroom Type
Balcony
£1,949 £2,049
£300
£60
Balcony
£2,049
£2,149
£300
£60
Balcony
£2,299
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,399
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,149
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,299
£150
Superior Deluxe
£2,349 £2,499
£400
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,449
£2,599
£400
£60
Superior Deluxe
£2,699
£200
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,849
£200
£60
Superior Deluxe
£2,549
£200
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,749
£200
£60
Suite
£3,049 £3,199
£500
£125
Suite
£3,149
£3,349
£500
£125
Suite
£3,449
£250
£125
Suite
£3,599
£250
£125
Suite
£3,199
£250
£125
Suite
£3,499
£250
£125
126 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
hoW To BooK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
127
THE CARIBBEAN
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN
Up to £200 per person on board spending money
15 nights from £1,349† per person
ChrIsTMAs & nEW YEAr’s CruIsE Fri 16 Dec 2011 – sat 14 Jan 2012 Ventura hol. no. n131B 29 nights from £2,949†pp sat 17 Dec 2011 – sun 15 Jan 2012 Ventura hol. no. n131C 29 nights from £2,949†pp up to £300pp on board spending money
Antigua
ChrIsTMAs CruIsE Fri 2 – sat 17 Dec 2011 Ventura hol. no. n130 15 nights from £1,349†pp
Fri 9 – sat 24 Dec 2011 Azura hol. no. A127 15 nights from £1,399†pp
Fri 16 – sat 31 Dec 2011 Ventura hol. no. n131 15 nights from £1,749†pp
sat 3 – sun 18 Dec 2011 Ventura hol. no. n130A 15 nights from £1,349†pp
sat 10 – sun 25 Dec 2011 Azura hol. no. A127A 15 nights from £1,399†pp
sat 17 Dec 2011 – sun 1 Jan 2012 Ventura hol. no. n131A 15 nights from £1,749†pp
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester Barbados Fri 2/Sat 3 Dec Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Bonaire – Dutch Antilles Mon 5 Dec Full Day Curacao – Dutch Antilles Tue 6 Dec Full Day Ocho Rios – Jamaica Thu 8 Dec Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Sat 10 Dec Full Day St Maarten Mon 12 Dec Full Day Antigua Tue 13 Dec Full Day Dominica Wed 14 Dec Full Day St lucia Thu 15 Dec Full Day Barbados Fri 16/Sat 17 Dec Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 9/Sat 10 Dec Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Curacao – Dutch Antilles Mon 12 Dec Full Day Aruba Tue 13 Dec Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 15 Dec Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 17 Dec Full Day St Maarten Sun 18 Dec Full Day St Kitts Mon 19 Dec Full Day St lucia Wed 21 Dec Full Day Grenada Thu 22 Dec Full Day Barbados Fri 23/Sat 24 Dec Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 16/Sat 17 Dec Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St Maarten Mon 19 Dec Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 20 Dec Full Day Catalina Island h – Dominican Republic Thu 22 Dec Full Day St Kitts h Sat 24 Dec Full Day Antigua Mon 26 Dec Full Day St lucia Tue 27 Dec Full Day Dominica Wed 28 Dec Full Day St vincent Thu 29 Dec Full Day Barbados Fri 30/Sat 31 Dec Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
Stateroom Type Inside
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,449
£100
£10
Stateroom Type Inside
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,499
£100
£10
Stateroom Type Inside
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,849
£100
£10
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 16/Sat 17 Dec Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St Maarten Mon 19 Dec Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 20 Dec Full Day Catalina Island h – Dominican Republic Thu 22 Dec Full Day St Kitts h Sat 24 Dec Full Day Antigua Mon 26 Dec Full Day St lucia Tue 27 Dec Full Day Dominica Wed 28 Dec Full Day St vincent Thu 29 Dec Full Day Barbados Fri 30/Sat 31 Dec Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Curacao – Dutch Antilles Mon 2 Jan Full Day Aruba Tue 3 Jan Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 5 Jan Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 7 Jan Full Day St Maarten Sun 8 Jan Full Day St Kitts h Mon 9 Jan Full Day St lucia Wed 11 Jan Full Day Grenada Thu 12 Jan Full Day Barbados Fri 13/Sat 14 Jan Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
ChrIsTMAs & nEW YEAr’s CruIsE
Fri 30 Dec 2011 – sat 14 Jan 2012 Ventura hol. no. n132 15 nights from £1,799†pp
sat 24 Dec 2011 – sun 8 Jan 2012 Azura hol. no. A128A 15 nights from £1,899†pp
sat 31 Dec 2011 – sun 15 Jan 2012 Ventura hol. no. n132A 15 nights from £1,799†pp
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Barbados Fri 23/Sat 24 Dec Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Bonaire – Dutch Antilles Mon 26 Dec Full Day Aruba Tue 27 Dec Full Day Ocho Rios – Jamaica Thu 29 Dec Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Sat 31 Dec Full Day St Maarten Mon 2 Jan Full Day Antigua Tue 3 Jan Full Day Dominica Wed 4 Jan Full Day St lucia Thu 5 Jan Full Day Barbados Fri 6/Sat 7 Jan Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Barbados Fri 30/Sat 31 Dec Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Curacao – Dutch Antilles Mon 2 Jan Full Day Aruba Tue 3 Jan Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 5 Jan Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 7 Jan Full Day St Maarten Sun 8 Jan Full Day St Kitts h Mon 9 Jan Full Day St lucia Wed 11 Jan Full Day Grenada Thu 12 Jan Full Day Barbados Fri 13/Sat 14 Jan Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
Guide to Symbols h land by tender ship usually berthed alongside Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£3,149
£200
£20
£3,549
£200
£20
Stateroom Type
nEW YEAr’s CruIsE
Fri 23 Dec 2011 – sat 7 Jan 2012 Azura hol. no. A128 15 nights from £1,899†pp
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,999
£100
£10
Inside
Single Inside
£2,499
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,899
£100
£10
£2,099
£100
£10
£125
£20 £60
Fares from
Outside obstructed view
£1,599
£100
£10
Single Inside
£1,899
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,049
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
Outside
£1,799
£125
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,649
£100
£10
Outside
£2,299
£125
£20
Outside
£3,949
£250
£40
Outside obstructed view
£2,199
£100
£10
Outside
£2,349
Balcony
£1,999
£150
£60
Outside
£1,899
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,549
£150
£60
Balcony
£4,799
£300
£100
Outside
£2,499
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,599
£150
Superior Deluxe
£2,349
£200
£60
Balcony
£2,049
£150
£60
Superior Deluxe
£3,049
£200
£60
Superior Deluxe
£5,249
£400
£100
Balcony
£2,799
£150
£60
Superior Deluxe
£3,099
£200
£60
Suite
£2,949
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,499
£200
£60
Suite
£3,849
£250
£125
Suite
£6,599
£500
£200
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,299
£200
£60
Suite
£3,899
£250
£125
Suite
£3,099
£250
£125
Suite
£4,149
£250
£125
For flight information turn to page 70 128 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
hoW To BooK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
129
THE CARIBBEAN
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
15 nights from £1,599† per person
St Kitts
Fri 6 – sat 21 Jan 2012 Azura hol. no. A201 15 nights from £1,649†pp
Fri 13 Jan – sat 28 Jan 2012 Ventura hol. no. n201 15 nights from £1,599†pp
Fri 20 Jan – sat 4 Feb 2012 Azura hol. no. A202 15 nights from £1,749†pp
sat 7 – sun 22 Jan 2012 Azura hol. no. A201A 15 nights from £1,649†pp
sat 14 Jan – sun 29 Jan 2012 Ventura hol. no. n201A 15 nights from £1,599†pp
sat 21 Jan – sun 5 Feb 2012 Azura hol. no. A202A 15 nights from £1,749†pp
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 6/Sat 7 Jan Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St Maarten Mon 9 Jan Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 10 Jan Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 12 Jan Full Day St Kitts Sat 14 Jan Full Day Antigua Sun 15 Jan Full Day St lucia Mon 16 Jan Full Day Dominica Wed 18 Jan Full Day St vincent Thu 19 Jan Full Day Barbados Fri 20/Sat 21 Jan Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 13/Sat 14 Jan Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Bonaire – Dutch Antilles Mon 16 Jan Full Day Aruba Tue 17 Jan Full Day Ocho Rios – Jamaica Thu 19 Jan Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Sat 21 Jan Full Day St Maarten Mon 23 Jan Full Day Antigua Tue 24 Jan Full Day Dominica Wed 25 Jan Full Day St lucia Thu 26 Jan Full Day Barbados Fri 27/Sat 28 Jan Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands, Glasgow Barbados Fri 20/Sat 21 Jan Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Curacao – Dutch Antilles Mon 23 Jan Full Day Aruba Tue 24 Jan Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 26 Jan Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 28 Jan Full Day St Maarten Sun 29 Jan Full Day St Kitts Mon 30 Jan Full Day St lucia Wed 1 Feb Full Day Grenada Thu 2 Feb Full Day Barbados Fri 3/Sat 4 Feb Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
Tortola 130 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,699
£100
£10
Inside
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£100
£10
Single Inside
£10
Outside
£2,099
£125
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£10
£20
Balcony
£2,299
£150
£60
Outside
£2,349
£125
£20
£150
£60
Superior Deluxe
£2,749
£200
£60
Balcony
£2,549
£150
£60
£200
£60
Suite
£3,499
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,049
£200
£60
Suite
£3,899
£250
£125
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,749
£100
£10
Single Inside
£2,199
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,899
£100
Outside
£2,149
£125
Balcony
£2,349
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,849
Suite
£3,599
£250
£125
Stateroom Type
hoW To BooK
Stateroom Type
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,849
£100
£10
£2,299
£100
£10
Fares from
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
131
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN
THE CARIBBEAN
Curacao
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
15 nights from £1,649† per person
St lucia
Fri 27 Jan – sat 11 Feb 2012 Ventura hol. no. n202 15 nights from £1,649†pp
Fri 3 – sat 18 Feb 2012 Azura hol. no. A203 15 nights from £1,699†pp
Fri 10 – sat 25 Feb 2012 Ventura hol. no. n203 15 nights from £1,699†pp
Fri 17 Feb – sat 3 Mar 2012 Azura hol. no. A204 15 nights from £1,749†pp
Fri 24 Feb – sat 10 Mar 2012 Ventura hol. no. n204 15 nights from £1,799†pp
Fri 2 – sat 17 Mar 2012 Azura hol. no. A205 15 nights from £1,799†pp
sat 28 Jan – sun 12 Feb 2012 Ventura hol. no. n202A 15 nights from £1,649†pp
sat 4 – sun 19 Feb 2012 Azura hol. no. A203A 15 nights from £1,699†pp
sat 11 – sun 26 Feb 2012 Ventura hol. no. n203A 15 nights from £1,699†pp
sat 18 Feb – sun 4 Mar 2012 Azura hol. no. A204A 15 nights from £1,749†pp
sat 25 Feb – sun 11 Mar 2012 Ventura hol. no. n204A 15 nights from £1,799†pp
sat 3 – sun 18 Mar 2012 Azura hol. no. A205A 15 nights from £1,799†pp
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Belfast Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 27/Sat 28 Jan Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St Maarten Mon 30 Jan Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 31 Jan Full Day Catalina Island h – Dominican Republic Thu 2 Feb Full Day St Kitts h Sat 4 Feb Full Day Antigua Sun 5 Feb Full Day St lucia Mon 6 Feb Full Day Dominica Wed 8 Feb Full Day St vincent Thu 9 Feb Full Day Barbados Fri 10/Sat 11 Feb Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands, Edinburgh Barbados Fri 3/Sat 4 Feb Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Bonaire – Dutch Antilles Mon 6 Feb Full Day Aruba Tue 7 Feb Full Day Ocho Rios – Jamaica Thu 9 Feb Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Sat 11 Feb Full Day St Maarten Mon 13 Feb Full Day Antigua Tue 14 Feb Full Day Dominica Wed 15 Feb Full Day St lucia Thu 16 Feb Full Day Barbados Fri 17/Sat 18 Jan Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands, Glasgow Barbados Fri 10/Sat 11 Feb Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Curacao – Dutch Antilles Mon 13 Feb Full Day Aruba Tue 14 Feb Full Day Catalina Island h – Dominican Republic Thu 16 Feb Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 18 Feb Full Day St Maarten Sun 19 Feb Full Day St Kitts h Mon 20 Feb Full Day St lucia Wed 22 Feb Full Day Grenada Thu 23 Feb Full Day Barbados Fri 24/Sat 25 Feb Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 17/Sat 18 Feb Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St Maarten Mon 20 Feb Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 21 Feb Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 23 Feb Full Day St Kitts Sat 25 Feb Full Day Antigua Sun 26 Feb Full Day St lucia Mon 27 Feb Full Day Dominica Wed 29 Feb Full Day St vincent Thu 1 Mar Full Day Barbados Fri 2/Sat 3 Mar Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle Barbados Fri 24/Sat 25 Feb Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Bonaire – Dutch Antilles Mon 27 Feb Full Day Aruba Tue 28 Feb Full Day Ocho Rios – Jamaica Thu 1 Mar Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Sat 3 Mar Full Day St Maarten Mon 5 Mar Full Day Antigua Tue 6 Mar Full Day Dominica Wed 7 Mar Full Day St lucia Thu 8 Mar Full Day Barbados Fri 9/Sat 10 Mar Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands, Glasgow Barbados Fri 2/Sat 3 Mar Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations Curacao – Dutch Antilles Mon 5 Mar Full Day Aruba Tue 6 Mar Full Day Grand Turk – Turk and Caicos Islands Thu 8 Mar Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 10 Mar Full Day St Maarten Sun 11 Mar Full Day St Kitts Mon 12 Mar Full Day St lucia Wed 14 Mar Full Day Grenada Thu 15 Mar Full Day Barbados Fri 16/Sat 17 Mar Full day and overnight in port for Saturday disembarkations UK Overnight flight to UK. Same airport as departure
Guide to Symbols h land by tender ship usually berthed alongside
For flight information turn to page 70 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,749
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,949
£100
£10
Outside
£2,199
£125
Balcony
£2,399
£150
Superior Deluxe
£2,849
Suite
£3,649
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,799
£100
£10
Single Inside
£2,199
£100
£10
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,999
£100
£60
Outside
£2,249
£200
£60
Balcony
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony Suite
132 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,799
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,999
£100
£10
£10
Outside
£2,249
£125
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,499
£150
£2,499
£150
£60
Superior Deluxe
£2,999
£2,949
£200
£60
Suite
£3,799
£3,749
£250
£125
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,899
£100
£10
Single Inside
£2,349
£100
£10
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£60
Outside
£2,349
£125
£200
£60
Balcony
£2,599
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,099
Suite
£3,899
£250
£125
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Stateroom Type
hoW To BooK
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,899
£100
£10
Inside
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£10
Single Inside
£10
Outside
£2,349
£125
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£10
£20
Balcony
£2,599
£150
£60
Outside
£2,349
£125
£20
£150
£60
Superior Deluxe
£3,099
£200
£60
Balcony
£2,599
£150
£60
£200
£60
Suite
£3,949
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,099
£200
£60
Suite
£3,949
£250
£125
Stateroom Type
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,899
£100
£10
£2,349
£100
£10
Fares from
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
133
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN
13 nights from £1,249† per person
Fri 9 – Fri 23 Mar 2012 Ventura hol. no. n205 14 nights from £1,349†pp
Fri 16 – Fri 30 Mar 2012 Azura hol. no. A206 14 nights from £1,399†pp
sat 10 – Fri 23 Mar 2012 Ventura hol. no. n205A 13 nights from £1,249†pp
sat 17 – Fri 30 Mar 2012 Azura hol. no. A206A 13 nights from £1,249†pp
up to £150pp on board spending money
up to £150pp on board spending money
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands Barbados Fri 9/Sat 10 Mar Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St lucia Sun 11 Mar Full Day St Kitts h Mon 12 Mar Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Tue 13 Mar Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Mon 19 Mar Full Day Southampton Fri 23 Mar Arrive early morning
UK Fly to Barbados Fri departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands Sat departure: Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham Barbados Fri 16/Sat 17 Mar Overnight and full day in port for Friday embarkations St lucia Sun 18 Mar Full Day Antigua Mon 19 Mar Full Day St Maarten Tue 20 Mar Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Tue 27 Mar Full Day Southampton Fri 30 Mar Arrive early morning
n205
Stateroom Type
n205A
A206
A206A
Fares from
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,499
£1,349
£100
£10
£1,449 £1,349
£100
£10
Single Inside
£1,849
£1,749
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view £1,599 £1,499
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view £1,649
£1,549
£100
£10
£125
£20
Outside
£1,849
£1,749
£125
£20 £60
Stateroom Type Inside
Fares from
Fares from
£1,799
£1,699
Balcony
£1,949
£1,849
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,049
£1,899
£150
Superior Deluxe
£2,349 £2,199
£200
£60
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,449
£2,299
£200
£60
Suite
£3,049 £2,849
£250
£125
Suite
£3,149
£2,949
£250
£125
Outside
134 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
For flight information turn to page 70 Guide to Symbols h land by tender ship usually berthed alongside Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
hoW To BooK
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
135
P&O CRUISES THE CARIBBEAN
THE CARIBBEAN NO FlY HOlIDAYS
New Orleans
Miami
21 nights from £2,249† per person Up to £240 per person on board spending money ChrIsTMAs & nEW YEAr’s CruIsE
sEAsonAL sAVEr
Thu 14 Apr – Thu 5 May 2011 Aurora hol. no. r102 21 nights from £2,249†p up to £225pp on board spending money
Tue 27 sep – Mon 31 oct 2011 oriana hol. no. x117 34 nights from £3,399†pp up to £375pp on board spending money
sat 29 oct – Mon 21 nov 2011 Arcadia hol. no. J112 23 nights from £2,374†pp up to £225pp on board spending money
Mon 14 nov – Tue 20 Dec 2011 Aurora hol. no. r118 36 nights from £3,349†pp up to £375pp on board spending money
sat 17 Dec 2011 – Mon 9 Jan 2012 Arcadia hol. no. J114 23 nights from £2,974†pp up to £225pp on board spending money
sun 8 Jan – sun 12 Feb 2012 oceana hol. no. E201 35 nights from £3,049†pp up to £375pp on board spending money
Southampton Thu 14 Apr Sail late afternoon Ponta Delgada – Azores Sun 17 Apr Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Fri 22 Apr Full Day Antigua Sat 23 Apr Full Day St Maarten Sun 24 Apr Full Day St vincent Mon 25 Apr Full Day Barbados Tue 26 Apr Full Day Madeira Mon 2 May Morning Southampton Thu 5 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 27 Sep Sail late afternoon Madeira Sat 1 Oct Full Day St Maarten Fri 7 Oct Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Sat 8 Oct Full Day Montego Bay – Jamaica Mon 10 Oct Full Day Grand Cayman h Tue 11 Oct Full Day Cozumel – Mexico Wed 12 Oct Full Day New Orleans – louisiana, USA Fri 14 Oct TWO FUll DAYS Key West – Florida, USA Mon 17 Oct Full Day Miami – Florida, USA Tue 18 Oct Full Day Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) – Florida, USA Wed 19 Oct Full Day Charleston – USA Thu 20 Oct AFTERNOON & EvENING Ponta Delgada – Azores Thu 27 Oct Full Day Southampton Mon 31 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 29 Oct Sail late afternoon Madeira Wed 2 Nov Full Day Antigua Tue 8 Nov Full Day St Maarten Wed 9 Nov Full Day St Kitts Thu 10 Nov Full Day St lucia Fri 11 Nov Full Day Barbados Sat 12 Nov Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Thu 17 Nov Afternoon Southampton Mon 21 Nov Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 14 Nov Sail late afternoon Madeira Fri 18 Nov Full Day Antigua Thu 24 Nov Full Day St lucia Fri 25 Nov Full Day Barbados Sat 26 Nov Full Day Grenada Sun 27 Nov Full Day Aruba Tue 29 Nov Full Day Transit Panama Canal Thu 1 Dec Partial Transit Roatan – Honduras Sat 3 Dec Full Day Cozumel Sun 4 Dec Full Day Montego Bay – Jamaica Tue 6 Dec Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Thu 8 Dec Full Day St Maarten Fri 9 Dec Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Thu 15 Dec Full Day Southampton Tue 20 Dec Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 17 Dec Sail late afternoon Madeira Wed 21 Dec Full Day Antigua Tue 27 Dec Full Day St Maarten Wed 28 Dec Full Day St Kitts Thu 29 Dec Full Day St lucia Fri 30 Dec Full Day Barbados Sat 31 Dec Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Thu 5 Jan Afternoon Southampton Mon 9 Jan Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 8 Jan Sail late afternoon Madeira Thu 12 Jan Full Day St lucia Wed 18 Jan Full Day St Kitts Thu 19 Jan Full Day Tortola – British virgin Islands Fri 20 Jan Full Day Montego Bay – Jamaica Sun 22 Jan Full Day Grand Cayman h Mon 23 Jan Full Day Cozumel – Mexico Tue 24 Jan Full Day New Orleans – louisiana, USA Thu 26 Jan TWO FUll DAYS Key West – Florida, USA Sun 29 Jan Full Day Port Everglades (for tours to Miami) – Florida, USA Mon 30 Jan Full Day Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) – Florida, USA Tue 31 Jan FUll DAY & EvENING Charleston – USA Thu 2 Feb Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Wed 8 Feb Afternoon Southampton Sun 12 Feb Arrive early morning
Guide to Symbols h land by tender ship usually berthed alongside Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 sEAsonAL sAVEr – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Stateroom Type
On Board Spending Money
On Board Spending Money
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£3,599
£200
£25
Inside
£2,549
£175
£15
Outside
£4,299
£250
£50
Outside obstructed view
£2,749
£175
£15
£90
Deluxe Outside
£5,549
£300
£50
Outside
£3,149
£220
£300
£90
Deluxe Balcony
£7,299
£400
£120
Deluxe Balcony
£3,749
£6,649
£375
£180
Mini-Suite
£10,349
£500
£240
Mini-Suite
£7,999
£375
£180
Suite
£11,899
£500
£240
Suite
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£2,399
£150
£15
Outside
£2,849
£190
£30
Balcony
£3,749
£225
Deluxe Balcony
£4,449
Mini-Suite Suite
136 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CARIBBEAN
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£3,149
£175
£15
Outside obstructed view
£3,399
£175
£15
Outside
£3,899
£220
£120
Deluxe Balcony
£4,599
£625
£240
Mini-Suite
£625
£240
Suite
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£3,599
£250
£25
Outside
£4,399
£325
£50
£30
Balcony
£5,749
£375
£120
£350
£90
Deluxe Balcony
£6,899
£500
£5,949
£440
£180
Mini-Suite
£10,249
£6,449
£440
£180
Suite
£12,249
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
Stateroom Type
hoW To BooK
Stateroom Type
ONlINE at pocruises.co.uk
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£3,299
£250
£25
Outside obstructed view
£4,049
£250
£25
£30
Outside
£4,149
£325
£50
£350
£90
Balcony
£5,049
£375
£120
£7,399
£440
£180
Mini-Suite
£8,349
£625
£240
£7,999
£440
£180
Suite
£10,199
£625
£240
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
Stateroom Type
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
137
P&O CRUISES THE CANARY ISLANDS
Nature’s
finest
From sand dunes to snow-peaked mountains and from volcanoes to verdant forest – when Mother Nature created the Canary Islands, she used every trick in the book, as CLAIRE GERVAT discovers
W
hen it comes to variety, the Canary Islands are in a class of their own. Where else in the world would you find luxuriant rainforest rubbing shoulders with barren rock formations; patches of pine forest weaving through one of the world’s largest volcanic craters; picturesque whitewashed villages, dotted with bougainvillea and hibiscus, just miles away from rolling sand dunes? The only thing that hardly changes at all is the enviable subtropical climate, with mild winters and pleasantly warm summers adding to its all-year appeal. Tenerife, along with the other islands, owes much of its natural beauty to its volcanic origins. Nowhere is this more obvious than at the National Park of Las Cañadas of Teide. At the core of the park is a vast crater, from the middle of which rises the soaring peak of Mount Teide itself, the third-highest volcano in the world and the highest mountain on Spanish territory, lofty enough to acquire a picturesque cap of snow in winter. On a clear day, the views across to La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro from close to the summit – accessible by cable car – are astounding, but there’s plenty to see lower down too, from volcanic tubes to dramatic twists of solidified lava reaching up to the sky. Epic moonscapes aside, nature has other cards up its sleeve on Tenerife, with bottle green laurel forests giving way to emerald banana plantations, and coastal scenery that ranges from wave-lashed rocks to the softest of white sand. The Canaries as a whole are home to almost 14,000 species of flora and fauna, of which around a quarter are found nowhere else, and Tenerife has its fair share of unique species in its 43 protected reserves, from Teide violets to the blue chaffinch. It’s a similar story offshore, with the southeast coast regarded as a particularly good spot from which to go whale-watching. Gran Canaria, the third largest of the Canaries, is often described as a ‘continent in miniature’, thanks to its wide range of landscapes, plants and marine life. The
138 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CANARYISLANDS
“One of Gran Canaria’s biggest suprises is the dunes of Maspalomas, a mini Sahara by the sea” arid south coast is dotted with cactuses and exotic blooms such as jacarandas. At the heart of the island, rising above scented pine forests, is the mountainous Cumbre, with distinctive basalt outcrops such as Roque Nublo, almost the highest point of Gran Canaria; on a clear day, the views across to snow-capped Mount Teide on Tenerife are breathtaking. One of Gran Canaria’s biggest surprises is the dunes of Maspalomas, a mini Sahara by the sea. At certain times of the year, it and the adjacent lagoon are a-flap with chirping and squawking migrating birds. The rest of the time, follow the marked paths to see the amazing plants that survive here; the quietest is the one through the middle, from parts of which you won’t see anything but sky, mountains and sand. Nature plays even more of a starring role in La Palma, the steepest and fifth largest of the Canaries, and the least developed. It also has the highest rainfall, making it the most lush of the islands, especially in the north. Much of the verdant hill country is inaccessible by road, but the rainforest reserve of Los Tiles has a choice of scenic walking trails through the dense greenery, past springs and waterfalls. It’s quite a contrast with the arid south, scene of the most recent eruptions on La Palma in 1971, though there’s a stark beauty in the low volcanic cones dotted around Fuencaliente. Different again are the tranquil Canary pine forests of the Caldera de Taburiente
Top five shore excursions: 1. Gran Canaria – Leisurely Gran Canaria 2. Tenerife – Beauty of Mount Teide 3. Madeira – Cable Car and Toboggan 4. La Palma – The Heart of La Palma 5. Lanzarote – Mountain of Fire
National Park, a magnet for walkers, though the caldera itself is all rocky drama and plunging cliffs. But if nature rules in La Palma, man has made good use of his subordinate position. The rich volcanic soil and the good rainfall are a perfect combination for flourishing orchards and vineyards, and some of the island’s Malvasia wines are delicious. The clear, unpolluted skies make it one of the world’s best places to gaze at the stars. There may not be any sweeps of powdery white sand around its coast, but the black sand beach at Puerto Naos, fringed with palms and sheltered by high cliffs, is a memorable alternative. The Canary Islands may be best known for golden beaches and balmy weather but make the effort to explore further, to experience the varied landscapes and natural wonders of this incredible archipelago for yourself, and you’ll realise how much more they have to offer.
Traveller’s tips CANARY ISLAND CRUISING With P&O Cruises, there’s not an airport in sight. Board in Southampton and enjoy a leisurely round trip to some spectacular destinations. These cruises island hop around the verdant Canary Islands, as well as calling in to Vigo, Lisbon, Madeira, Cadiz, La Coruna, Oporto and Casablanca en route. Durations range from 10 – 15 nights and cruises typically sail from April through to December. The islands are known for their year round temperate climes so you can expect it to be anything from hot to mild, depending on when you travel. GETTING THERE All our Canary Island holidays sail directly from Southampton. Regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. For more information on getting to and from your ship turn to page 70. YOUR DAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. This means at each port of call you’ll have up to
10 hours to explore. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold each day before you arrive in port. CURRENCY All the ports of call featured on our Canary Island itineraries have adopted the Euro as their national currency. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND VACCINATIONS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your date of return and children must have their own passport. If you hold a British Citizen passport then the good news is that you won’t need any visas for any destinations featured on our Canary Island itineraries. However, your passport and visa requirements may differ if you do not hold a British Citizen passport. You’ll also be pleased to know that there aren’t any compulsory vaccinations required for any of our Canary Island holidays. Please see page 234-235 for further details of visas and vaccinations.
139
THE CANARY ISLANDS
P&O CRUISES THE CANARY ISLANDS
10 nights from £949† per person
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
Madeira
Lanzarote
seasonal saver
seasonal saver
sun 20 – Wed 30 Mar 2011 oriana hol. no. x103 10 nights from £949†pp up to £60pp on board spending money
Mon 28 Mar – sat 9 apr 2011 oceana hol. no. e107 12 nights from £1,199†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Mon 11 – fri 22 apr 2011 ventura hol. no. n109 11 nights from £1,124†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Mon 23 May – sat 4 Jun 2011 oceana hol. no. e113 12 nights from £1,374†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Mon 13 – sat 25 Jun 2011 ventura hol. no. n115 12 nights from £1,424†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
sun 21 aug – fri 2 sep 2011 azura hol. no. a119 12 nights from £1,524†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Sun 20 Mar Sail late afternoon Madeira Wed 23 Mar Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Thu 24 Mar Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Fri 25 Mar Full Day Lanzarote – Canary Islands Sat 26 Mar Full Day Vigo – Spain Mon 28 Mar Full Day Southampton Wed 30 Mar Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 28 Mar Sail late afternoon Vigo – Spain Wed 30 Mar Full Day Lanzarote – Canary Islands Fri 1 Apr Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sat 2 Apr Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sun 3 Apr Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Mon 4 Apr Full Day Madeira Tue 5 Apr Full Day Southampton Sat 9 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 11 Apr Sail late afternoon Vigo – Spain Wed 13 Apr Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Thu 14 Apr Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Sat 16 Apr Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sun 17 Apr Full Day Madeira Mon 18 Apr Full Day La Coruna – Spain Wed 20 Apr Full Day Southampton Fri 22 Apr Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 23 May Sail late afternoon Vigo – Spain Wed 25 May Full Day Lanzarote – Canary Islands Fri 27 May Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sat 28 May Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sun 29 May Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Mon 30 May Full Day Madeira Tue 31 May Full Day Southampton Sat 4 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 13 Jun Sail late afternoon Vigo – Spain Wed 15 Jun Full Day Lanzarote – Canary Islands Fri 17 Jun Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sat 18 Jun Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sun 19 Jun Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Mon 20 Jun Full Day Madeira Tue 21 Jun Full Day Southampton Sat 25 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 21 Aug Sail late afternoon Madeira Thu 25 Aug Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Fri 26 Aug Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Sat 27 Aug Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sun 28 Aug Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Tue 30 Aug Full Day Vigo – Spain Wed 31 Aug Full Day Southampton Fri 2 Sep Arrive early morning
Family Choice Cruise – see page 232 seasonal saver – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,099
£150
£5
Inside
£1,349
£150
£10
Inside
£1,199
£75
£10
Inside
£1,449
£75
£10
Inside
£1,499
£75
£10
Inside
£1,599
£75
£10
Outside
£1,249
£190
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,549
£150
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,349
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,749
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,649
£75
£10
Single Inside
£1,849
£75
£10
Deluxe Outside
£1,549
£230
£10
Outside
£1,599
£190
£20
Outside
£1,499
£95
£20
Outside
£1,799
£95
£20
Outside
£1,849
£95
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,749
£75
£10
Deluxe Balcony
£2,049
£300
£30
Balcony
£1,899
£230
£60
Balcony
£1,699
£115
£60
Balcony
£2,149
£115
£60
Balcony
£2,099
£115
£60
Outside
£1,949
£95
£20
Mini-Suite
£2,899
£380
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,049
£380
£125
Superior Deluxe
£1,949
£150
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,399
£190
£125
Superior Deluxe
£2,449
£150
£60
Balcony
£2,199
£115
£60
Suite
£3,449
£380
£60
Suite
£3,699
£380
£125
Suite
£2,599
£190
£125
Suite
£4,099
£190
£125
Suite
£3,199
£190
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£2,599
£150
£60
Suite
£3,399
£190
£125
140 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CANARYISLANDS
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
141
THE CANARY ISLANDS
P&O CRUISES THE CANARY ISLANDS
12 nights from £1,049† per person
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
Gran Canaria
La Palma
seasonal saver
seasonal saver
seasonal saver
Mon 5 – sat 17 sep 2011 oceana hol. no. e124 12 nights from £1,474†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Thu 15 – Tue 27 sep 2011 ventura hol. no. n124 12 nights from £1,374†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
sun 9 – fri 21 oct 2011 ventura hol. no. n126 12 nights from £1,174†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 1 – sat 12 nov 2011 aurora hol. no. r116 11 nights from £999†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Wed 9 – Mon 21 nov 2011 oceana hol. no. e130 12 nights from £1,049†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Mon 21 nov – sat 3 Dec 2011 arcadia hol. no. J113 12 nights from £1,149†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Mon 5 Sep Sail late afternoon Madeira Fri 9 Sep Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sat 10 Sep Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sun 11 Sep Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Mon 12 Sep Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Wed 14 Sep Full Day Vigo – Spain Thu 15 Sep Full Day Southampton Sat 17 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 15 Sep Sail late afternoon Vigo – Spain Sat 17 Sep Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Sun 18 Sep Full Day Cadiz – Spain Mon 19 Sep Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Wed 21 Sep Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Thu 22 Sep Full Day Madeira Fri 23 Sep Full Day Southampton Tue 27 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 9 Oct Sail late afternoon Madeira Thu 13 Oct Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Fri 14 Oct Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sat 15 Oct Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sun 16 Oct Full Day Lanzarote – Canary Islands Mon 17 Oct Full Day Vigo – Spain Wed 19 Oct Full Day Southampton Fri 21 Oct Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 1 Nov Sail late afternoon Oporto – Portugal Thu 3 Nov Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Sat 5 Nov Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sun 6 Nov Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Mon 7 Nov Full Day Madeira Tue 8 Nov Full Day Vigo – Spain Thu 10 Nov Full Day Southampton Sat 12 Nov Arrive early morning
Southampton Wed 9 Nov Sail late afternoon La Coruna – Spain Fri 11 Nov Full Day Madeira Sun 13 Nov Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Mon 14 Nov Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Tue 15 Nov Full Day Cadiz – Spain Thu 17 Nov Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Fri 18 Nov Full Day Southampton Mon 21 Nov Arrive early morning
Southampton Mon 21 Nov Sail late afternoon Madeira Fri 25 Nov Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sat 26 Nov Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Sun 27 Nov Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Mon 28 Nov Full Day Lanzarote – Canary Islands Tue 29 Nov Full Day Oporto – Portugal Thu 1 Dec Full Day Southampton Sat 3 Dec Arrive early morning
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 seasonal saver – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,549
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£75
£10
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,449
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,649
£75
£10
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,249
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,399
£75
£10
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
On Board Spending Money
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£1,149
£150
£10
Outside
£1,399
£190
£20
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
On Board Spending Money
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,199
£150
£10
Inside
£1,299
£150
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,449
£150
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,399
£150
£10
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Outside
£1,899
£95
£20
Outside
£1,849
£95
£20
Outside
£1,599
£95
£20
Balcony
£1,649
£230
£60
Outside
£1,499
£190
£20
Outside
£1,599
£190
£20
Balcony
£2,249
£115
£60
Balcony
£2,099
£115
£60
Balcony
£1,799
£115
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£1,899
£300
£60
Balcony
£1,749
£230
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£1,799
£300
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,599
£190
£125
Superior Deluxe
£2,449
£150
£60
Superior Deluxe
£2,049
£150
£60
Mini-Suite
£2,849
£380
£125
Mini-Suite
£2,849
£380
£125
Mini-Suite
£2,849
£380
£125
Suite
£4,399
£190
£125
Suite
£3,199
£190
£125
Suite
£2,649
£190
£125
Suite
£3,499
£380
£125
Suite
£3,449
£380
£125
Suite
£2,989
£380
£125
142 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CANARYISLANDS
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
143
THE CANARY ISLANDS
P&O CRUISES THE CANARY ISLANDS
14 nights from £1,199† per person
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
Madeira
Tenerife
seasonal saver
chrisTMas cruise
chrisTMas & neW Year’s cruise
neW Year’s cruise
seasonal saver
sat 3 – sat 17 Dec 2011 oriana hol. no. x120 14 nights from £1,199†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Thu 15 – Tue 27 Dec 2011 oceana hol. no. e132 12 nights from £1,474†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 20 Dec 2011 – Wed 4 Jan 2012 aurora hol. no. r119 15 nights from £2,099†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 27 Dec 2011 – sun 8 Jan 2012 oceana hol. no. e133 12 nights from £1,524†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
sun 12 – sun 26 feb 2012 oceana hol. no. e202 14 nights from £1,249†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Sat 3 Dec Sail late afternoon Oporto – Portugal Mon 5 Dec Full Day Cadiz – Spain Wed 7 Dec Full Day Casablanca – Morocco Thu 8 Dec Full Day Lanzarote – Canary Islands Sat 10 Dec Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Sun 11 Dec Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Mon 12 Dec Full Day Madeira Tue 13 Dec Full Day Southampton Sat 17 Dec Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 15 Dec Sail late afternoon Madeira Mon 19 Dec Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Tue 20 Dec Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Wed 21 Dec Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Thu 22 Dec Full Day Lisbon – Portugal Sat 24 Dec Full Day Southampton Tue 27 Dec Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 20 Dec Sail late afternoon Lisbon – Portugal Fri 23 Dec Full Day Cadiz – Spain Sat 24 Dec Full Day Casablanca – Morocco Mon 26 Dec Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Wed 28 Dec Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Thu 29 Dec Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Fri 30 Dec Full Day Madeira (for New Year’s Eve fireworks) Sat 31 Dec FULL DAY & EVENING Southampton Wed 4 Jan Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 27 Dec Full Day Oporto – Portugal Thu 29 Dec Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Sat 31 Dec AFTERNOON & EVENING Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Mon 2 Jan Full Day Madeira Tue 3 Jan FULL DAY & EVENING Lisbon – Portugal Thu 5 Jan Full Day Southampton Sun 8 Jan Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 12 Feb Sail late afternoon Lisbon – Portugal Wed 15 Feb Full Day Cadiz – Spain Thu 16 Feb Full Day Casablanca – Morocco Fri 17 Feb Full Day La Palma – Canary Islands Sun 19 Feb Full Day Tenerife – Canary Islands Mon 20 Feb Full Day Gran Canaria – Canary Islands Tue 21 Feb Full Day Madeira Wed 22 Feb Full Day Southampton Sun 26 Feb Arrive early morning
Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,399
£200
£10
Inside
£1,549
£75
£10
Inside
£2,199
£100
£10
Inside
£1,599
£75
£10
Inside
£1,449
£200
Outside
£1,599
£250
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£75
£10
Outside
£2,699
£125
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,899
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,749
£200
£10
Deluxe Outside
£2,049
£300
£20
Outside
£1,899
£95
£20
Balcony
£3,399
£150
£60
Outside
£1,949
£95
£20
Outside
£1,799
£250
£20
Deluxe Balcony
£2,599
£400
£60
Balcony
£2,299
£115
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,899
£200
£60
Balcony
£2,349
£115
£60
Balcony
£2,099
£300
£60
Mini-Suite
£3,749
£500
£125
Mini-Suite
£3,699
£190
£125
Mini-Suite
£5,899
£250
£125
Mini-Suite
£3,749
£190
£125
Mini-Suite
£3,449
£500
£125
Suite
£4,399
£500
£125
Suite
£4,499
£190
£125
Suite
£7,049
£250
£125
Suite
£4,549
£190
£125
Suite
£4,099
£500
£125
144 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/CANARYISLANDS
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
£10
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
seasonal saver – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Seasonal Saver where applicable.
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
145
P&O CRUISES THE BALTIC CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT Church of the Spilled Blood, St Petersburg, Russian Bride, Russian Dolls.
Follow
that bride
Hot on the tail of a wedding party brings good fortune claims Maria Harding – the good fortune of seeing some of St. Petersburg’s best sights that is!
I
f you want to make the most of splendid, spectacular St Petersburg – the jewel in the crown of any Baltic Sea cruise – I have a few simple words of advice; just follow that bride! One of the 300-year-old Russian city’s most charming traditions is that local newlyweds celebrate their big day by being photographed at its top attractions. So tourists hitting the main sights, like the oniondomed Church of the Spilled Blood, or the battleship Aurora, whose guns signalled the start of the Russian Revolution – will often find a collection of beautiful young ladies in billowing white gowns have beaten them to it. If you do spot a wedding party, count yourself fortunate. Legend has it that spotting a bride brings good luck (and it’s certainly evidence that you’re lucky enough to be seeing one of the best bits of the city). The thing is, there are so many ‘best bits’ of St Petersburg, it’s hard to know which to see first. Which is why P&O Cruises often spend two days in this beautiful city, created by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703 to rival the great capitals of Europe. Within 50 years of his city's foundation, Peter the Great's dream became reality; St Petersburg’s soaring cathedrals and grand residences reflected its status as Russia’s seat of power. Peter’s daughter Elizabeth made further enhancements, but the reign of Catherine the Great was the city’s true golden age, when Europe’s finest architects were drafted in to design its sumptuous palaces, elegant parks and magnificent squares.
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St Petersburg has since undergone several changes of fortune and of name, becoming Petrograd in 1914, Leningrad ten years later, and only reverting to its original title following de-unification of the USSR in 1991. Its amazing palaces, originally built by serfs, were painstakingly reconstructed by volunteers after Germany’s WW2 occupation of the city caused widespread destruction. And when I first visited more than 20 years ago, I saw the empty shops and greying, crumbling façades of a once great city sadly fallen into neglect.
But the St Petersburg of today presents a very different face. The collapse of Communism has brought a renaissance for the city and it literally gleams with confidence and prosperity.
Top five shore excursions: 1. Stockholm – Stockholm Waterways 2. St Petersburg – Ballet Evening 3. Helsinki – City of Helsinki 4. Oslo – Oslo Highlights 5. Copenhagen – Walk n Cruise
Its magnificent pastel-and-white 18th century buildings and bridges – meticulously restored and freshly painted – are lit up at night in spectacular style; its lush parks are beautifully kept and Nevsky Prospekt, the broad main street which overlooks the River Neva, is lined with fragrant pavement cafés and glittering shops showcasing goods from around the
world. In fact, I found the drive to an evening at the ballet every bit as enjoyable and eyecatching as the performance itself. But with so much to do and see, where do you start? For first time visitors, a day at The Hermitage is an obvious starting point.
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TRAVELLER’S TIPS
13 nights from £1,399† per person
BALTIC CRUISIng Board in Southampton and enjoy a leisurely roundtrip to some spectacular destinations bordering the Baltic and North Sea. St Petersburg is undoubtedly the jewel in the Baltic crown, but there are some equally stunning destinations nearby including Tallinn, Helsinki, Copenhagen and Stockholm. You’ll also be able to visit Norway en route.
THE BALTIC
P&O CRUISES THE BALTIC
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
Durations range from 2 – 14 nights and cruises sail from May through to August, which are the warmer summer months, although packing rainwear is advisable. gETTIng THERE All our Baltic holidays sail directly from Southampton. Regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. For more information on getting to and from Southampton turn to page 70. YOUR dAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. We always berth in St Petersburg for two full days. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port. ABove The interior of St Petersburg’s Church of the Spilled Blood
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture or art, The Hermitage should be top of your ‘to do’ list, as this collection of magnificent 18th century palaces containing the world’s most comprehensive collection of art and sculpture will tick all the boxes. Its treasures – more than three million exhibits laid out in a mindboggling 12 miles of galleries – include works by Leonardo da Vinci, Gaugin, Rembrandt, Matisse and Picasso. And the architecture of its six buildings – which include the spectacular Winter Palace – is as dazzling as the artworks they contain. Other ‘must sees’ for first time visitors to St Petersburg include the grey-painted battleship Aurora which, in 1914, fired the signal for the storming of the Winter Palace and the start of the Russian Revolution. Some of St Petersburg’s fabulous churches should also be on your list. Most dazzling (for my money) is St Isaac’s Cathedral, famous for its soaring columns inlaid with lapis lazuli and marble walls studded with semi-precious stones. From the outside, though, the onion-shaped domes and spires of The Church of the Spilled Blood make it by far the city’s most beautiful church, a building straight out of a Russian fairytale which provides much inspiration for the local artists who sell their wares nearby. If you’ve a passion for history, you should definitely visit the The Bronze Horseman, the spectacular monument to Peter, which stands on Senatskaia Ploschad (Square), facing the River Neva and near the Admiralty (now a naval college) and St Isaac's Cathedral. Perhaps though, you would prefer to explore the lesser-known St Petersburg? You can experience different facets of the city’s history at one of its fascinating small museums, like Dostoyevsky's House on Kuznechnyy Pereulok (where he wrote The Brothers Karamazov), or the Pushkin Museum (the apartment on Naberezhnaya (Embankment) where the poet died. And remember that however enthralling its history, this city of vast parks and glittering canals has way too much to offer for you to spend all your time indoors. About five years ago, the ‘Venice of the North’ had many of its canals dredged so that boat tours could operate and believe me, a duck’s eye view of St Petersburg is simply not to be missed.
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CURREnCY The currency for Russia is the Rouble and it’s a good idea to take a small amount of cash ashore with you. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted, as are US Dollar and Euro traveller’s cheques. In Estonia you’ll need the Estonian Kroon. In Denmark you’ll need the Danish Krona, in Norway the Norwegian Krona and the Swedish Krona for Sweden, but credit cards are widely accepted in all of these countries as are traveller’s cheques in Euros, Pounds Sterling or US Dollars. For Lithuania you’ll need the Litas or US Dollar traveller’s cheques. Both Germany, Belgium and Finland have adopted the Euro. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS, VISAS And VACCInATIOnS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. Visas are required for your visit to St Petersburg, we expect to be able to arrange block visas if you are travelling on an organised shore excursion, but you must arrange for your own Russian Tourist Visa if you’re going ashore independently. If you hold a non-European passport you may also need to obtain a Schengen visa. You’ll also be pleased to know that there aren’t any compulsory vaccinations required for any of our Baltic holidays. For our Baltic holidays it’s important that you read the full visa details that can be found on page 234-235.
Tallinn
Thu 5 – Wed 18 May 2011 Aurora hol. no. r103 13 nights from £1,399†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
fri 20 May – fri 3 Jun 2011 oriana hol. no. x107 14 nights from £1,599†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
sat 4 – sat 18 Jun 2011 Azura hol. no. A113 14 nights from £1,699†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
Southampton Thu 5 May Sail late afternoon Oslo – norway Sat 7 May Afternoon Cruise in Oslofjord Sat 7 May Evening Copenhagen – denmark Sun 8 May Full Day Stockholm – Sweden Tue 10 May Full Day Helsinki – Finland Wed 11 May Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Thu 12 May TWO FULL dAYS Tallinn – Estonia Sat 14 May Full Day Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Tue 17 May Full Day Southampton Wed 18 May Arrive early morning
Southampton Fri 20 May Sail late afternoon Visby – gotland, Sweden Mon 23 May Full Day Stockholm – Sweden Tue 24 May Full Day Helsinki – Finland Wed 25 May Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Thu 26 May TWO FULL dAYS Travemunde – germany Sun 29 May Full Day Copenhagen – denmark Mon 30 May Full Day Oslo – norway Tue 31 May Full Day Cruise in Oslofjord Tue 31 May Evening Kristiansand – norway Wed 1 Jun Full Day Southampton Fri 3 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 4 Jun Sail late afternoon Oslo – norway Mon 6 Jun Afternoon Cruise in Oslofjord Mon 6 Jun Evening Copenhagen – denmark Tue 7 Jun Full Day Stockholm – Sweden Thu 9 Jun Full Day Helsinki – Finland Fri 10 Jun Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Sat 11 Jun TWO FULL dAYS Tallinn – Estonia Mon 13 Jun Full Day Warnemunde – germany Wed 15 Jun Full Day Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Fri 17 Jun Full Day Southampton Sat 18 Jun Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Music Fesival at Sea – see page 232
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232
Stateroom Type
On Board Spending Money
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£1,499
£100
£10
Outside
£1,899
£125
£20
Balcony
£2,399
£150
Deluxe Balcony
£2,799
Mini-Suite Suite
Stateroom Type
On Board Spending Money
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,799
£100
£10
£2,249
£100
£10
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£1,699
£100
£10
Inside
Outside
£2,099
£125
£20
Single Inside
£60
Deluxe Outside
£2,699
£150
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,999
£100
£10
£200
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,449
£200
£60
Outside
£2,349
£125
£20
£4,149
£250
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,849
£250
£125
Balcony
£2,749
£150
£60
£4,999
£250
£125
Suite
£5,599
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,149
£200
£60
Suite
£4,099
£250
£125
hoW To BooK
OnLInE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHOnE on 0845 3 555 333
Fares from
In-STORE at ABTA travel agents
149
Oslo
12 nights from £1,524† per person
THE BALTIC
P&O CRUISES THE BALTIC
Up to £125 per person on board spending money
Stockholm
Tue 28 Jun – Thu 14 Jul 2011 Adonia hol. no. D104 16 nights from £2,174†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
sun 3 – fri 15 Jul 2011 Azura hol. no. A115 12 nights from £1,524†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
Thu 7 – Thu 21 Jul 2011 Arcadia hol. no. J105 14 nights from £1,799†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
Thu 4 – Thu 18 Aug 2011 Arcadia hol. no. J107 14 nights from £1,849†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
sun 7 – fri 19 Aug 2011 oriana hol. no. x113 12 nights from £1,624†pp up to £150pp on board spending money
Southampton Tue 28 Jun Sail late afternoon Transit Kiel Canal Thu 30 Jun Overnight and morning transit Sassnitz – germany Fri 1 Jul Full Day Klaipeda – Lithuania Sat 2 Jul Full Day Visby – gotland, Sweden Sun 3 Jul Full Day Stockholm – Sweden Mon 4 Jul Full Day Turku – Finland Tue 5 Jul Full Day Tallinn – Estonia Wed 6 Jul Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Thu 7 Jul TWO FULL dAYS Copenhagen – denmark Mon 11 Jul Full Day Transit Kiel Canal Tue 12 Jul Daytime transit Southampton Thu 14 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 3 Jul Sail late afternoon Copenhagen – denmark Tue 5 Jul Afternoon Stockholm – Sweden Thu 7 Jul Full Day Tallinn – Estonia Fri 8 Jul Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Sat 9 Jul TWO FULL dAYS Helsinki – Finland Mon 11 Jul Full Day Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Thu 14 Jul Full Day Southampton Fri 15 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 7 Jul Sail late afternoon Kristiansand – norway Sat 9 Jul Full Day Copenhagen – norway Sun 10 Jul Full Day Stockholm – Sweden Tue 12 Jul Full Day Helsinki – Finland Wed 13 Jul Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Thu 14 Jul TWO FULL dAYS Travemunde – germany Sun 17 Jul Full Day Oslo – norway Tue 19 Jul Morning Southampton Thu 21 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 4 Aug Sail late afternoon Oslo – norway Sat 6 Aug Afternoon Cruise in Oslofjord Sat 6 Aug Evening Copenhagen – denmark Sun 7 Aug Full Day Stockholm – Sweden Tue 9 Aug Full Day Helsinki – Finland Wed 10 Aug Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Thu 11 Aug TWO FULL dAYS Tallinn – Estonia Sat 13 Aug Full Day Warnemunde – germany Mon 15 Aug Full Day gothenburg – Sweden Tue 16 Aug Full Day Southampton Thu 18 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 7 Aug Sail late afternoon Copenhagen – denmark Tue 9 Aug Full Day Stockholm – Sweden Thu 11 Aug Full Day Helsinki – Finland Fri 12 Aug Full Day St Petersburg – Russia Sat 13 Aug TWO FULL dAYS Tallinn – Estonia Mon 15 Aug Full Day Bruges (from Zeebrugge) – Belgium Thu 18 Aug Full Day Southampton Fri 19 Aug Arrive early morning
guide to Symbols land by tender
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,299
£125
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,449
£125
Outside
£2,849
£160
Balcony
£3,399
£190
Suite
£7,999
£315
Stateroom Type
150 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/BALTIC
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,899
£100
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,049
£100
£10
Outside
£2,349
£125
£95
£20
Deluxe Balcony
£2,849
£200
£2,349
£115
£60
Mini-Suite
£4,349
£2,749
£150
£60
Suite
£4,599
£3,549
£190
£125
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,599
£75
£10
£10
Single Inside
£2,099
£75
£20
Outside obstructed view
£1,749
£75
£60
Outside
£2,099
£125
Balcony Superior Deluxe Balcony Suite
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,949
£100
£10
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£10
Outside
£1,999
£95
£20
£20
Outside
£2,399
£125
£20
Deluxe Outside
£2,599
£115
£20
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£2,899
£200
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£3,249
£150
£60
£250
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,449
£250
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,599
£190
£125
£250
£125
Suite
£4,649
£250
£125
Suite
£5,349
£190
£125
Stateroom Type
hoW To BooK
Stateroom Type Inside
OnLInE at pocruises.co.uk
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,699
£75
£10
BY PHOnE on 0845 3 555 333
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Family Choice Cruise – see page 232 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
In-STORE at ABTA travel agents
151
P&O CRUISES THE FJORDS, GREENLAND & ICELAND
Fire andIce
If travel writers around the world each donated a “fiver” to the World Wildlife Fund for every adjective they have used to describe the scenery of Norway’s Fjords or Iceland’s moonscape lava fields, a lot more of our natural world would be protected, remarks PETER FRANzEN OBE.
Briksdal Glacier, from Olden riGhT Geirangerfjord
Top five shore excursions: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Stavanger – Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock Olden – Briksdal Glacier Flamm – Flamm Railway and Vatnahalsen Geiranger – Mount Dalsnibba Reykjavik – Golden Circle
B
ut as you gaze in awe at the panoramic views from the rail of your cruise ship, have you ever wondered why this spectacular scenery exists or thought about the historical links between Norway and Iceland?
In terms of the age of the earth, the fjords are mere “youngsters” and were created just 2,500,000 years ago during repeated periods of glaciation in The Great Ice Age. The scouring action of glaciers tonguing down the V-shaped valleys that were then part of the landscape, created the fjords that now grace the western coast of Norway. By contrast Iceland, dubbed the “Land of Fire and Ice”, is still evolving as one of the most active volcanic countries in the world. The links between Norway and Iceland go back centuries, and it was a chieftain from western Norway, Ingolfur Arnarson, who established the first settlement in 874 AD with his farm on what is today’s capital city, Reykjavik. The association with the Scandinavian countries continued until 1944 when Iceland was declared a republic. Tourism is now an important part of the economies of Norway and particularly Iceland, and travelling by sea is the best way to capture the contrasting beauty of both lands. So much of Norway is covered by trees, yet in comparison, Iceland is almost devoid because of centuries of de-forestation. Instead, geysers of hot water and steam rise high into the air, and it is this geothermal energy which has become one of Iceland’s greatest natural resources and provides most homes in the country with hot water. The Norwegian coastline is more heavily dissected by fjords than that of any other country in the world and, including the islands, the coastline stretches 25,148kms, which is more than half way around the world. No wonder then there is so much to explore. The fjords are prominent on UNESCO’s World Heritage list and “Queen of the Fjords” is the 111-miles long Hardangerfjord, the second largest in Norway. At its end is the village of Eidjford where P&O Cruises ships berth alongside, such is the depth of the water.
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153
TRAvELLER’S TIPS
THE FJORDS, GREENLAND & ICELAND
P&O CRUISES THE FJORDS, GREENLAND & ICELAND
NORTHERN CRUISING Board in Southampton and enjoy a leisurely roundtrip to some spectacular destinations. As well as all the magnificent destinations in Norway’s spectacular fjordland region, a number of these cruises travel further North to the icescape of Iceland and further still to Greenland, found within the Arctic Circle, so warm clothing is pretty much an essential. Durations range from 14 – 18 nights and cruises sail from June through to August. Norway is usually reasonably warm at this time of year, although it is prone to showers. Obviously the closer you get to the Arctic Circle, the colder it’s going to get, even in the summer months. Trondheim
GETTING THERE All our Northern holidays sail directly from Southampton. Regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. For more information on getting to and from Southampton turn to page 70.
cLocKWise froM ABove Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik, Godafoss Waterfalls (from Akureyri), Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik
On the edge of a Norwegian national park, Eidjford is a mecca for walking and other outdoor pursuits and with a day in port there is time to enjoy the beauty of this place. Not far by shore excursion is the Mabodal Valley with its towering mountain walls and Norway’s most famous waterfall Voringsfoss, cascading 182 metres, of which 145 metres is a direct drop. Most of the area is a national park where vegetation and wildlife are protected, and where an estimated 10,000 reindeer roam free. Gateway to the fjord coastline is Bergen, Norway’s second city, flourishing as a leading coastal port and major cultural centre. There is so much to see and do, and if you don’t want to go it alone there are plenty of varied shore excursions to help you see the best of it. Visit the fish market and be amazed by the size of the king crabs, take a stroll around old Bergen and don’t fail to visit Bryggen on the quayside, another of Norway’s World Heritage Sites; it has its own museum telling a fascinating story going back 800 years. Nowadays the restored streets and brightly-painted historic buildings are mainly used as shops selling traditional Norwegian produce. On each cruise I usually discover a “gem”. This time it was Alesund, some 165 nautical miles north of Bergen. I enjoyed a “land and sea” shore excursion which took us by boat around the fjord, followed by a walking tour of the town. Stretching across three islands at the mouth of the magnificent Geirangerfjord, Alesund’s architecture
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looks quite different to other Norwegian towns in “Fjordland” in that few of the buildings are constructed of wood. The original wooden town was destroyed in a devastating fire in 1904 when 850 homes were reduced to ashes and 10,000 people left homeless. Only four years later art nouveau buildings in stone – an architectural style influenced by the German Jugendstil – had replaced the old Alesund. The harbour area is particularly fine but in truth the whole town is a jewel with an easy “Sunday afternoon” feel to the place. The voyage from the fjords to Iceland takes the ship across the Arctic Circle to the northern port of Akureyri. The town lies at the head of the longest and narrowest inlet in the region and within easy reach by excursion are volcanic craters, bubbling mudpots and Godafoss Waterfall, known as “The Falls of the Gods”. But it’s when you get to Reykjavik that you are really spoiled for shore excursion choice. How about a journey by snow truck to see Thingvellir National Park and the Langjokull Glacier? Or a 4x4 adventure along the Frakkastigur mountain pass? Then, of course, there is whale watching on a three-hour boat trip. But if you want something more relaxing visit the “moonscape” area of the Reykjanes peninsula where you can bathe in the thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. Stunning, beautiful, dramatic, magical – the fjords and Iceland have it all. Now where is the WWF collection tin?
YOUR DAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port. CURRENCY The Krona is king in this part of the world. In Norway you’ll need the Norwegian Krona as spending money, but you’ll also find that all major credit cards and debit cards are accepted. In Greenland they use the Danish Krona, but you could also use traveller’s cheques in Pounds Sterling or US Dollars. Credit and debit cards aren’t widely accepted here. And then for Iceland there’s the Icelandic Krona; US Dollar traveller’s cheques are accepted as are American Express, Diners, MasterCard and Visa cards. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS, vISAS AND vACCINATIONS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. If you hold a British Citizen passport then the good news is that you won’t need any visas for any destinations featured on our Northern cruises. However, your passport and visa requirements may differ if you do not hold a British Citizen passport. In particular, nonEuropean passport holders may need to obtain a Schengen visa. You’ll also be pleased to know that there aren’t any compulsory vaccinations required for any of our Northern holidays. Please see page 234-235 for further details of visas and vaccinations.
14 nights from £1,849† per person Up to £125 per person on board spending money Mon 6 – Mon 20 Jun 2011 Aurora hol. no. r106 14 nights from £1,849†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 7 – Tue 21 Jun 2011 Adonia hol. no. D102 14 nights from £1,949†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
sat 18 Jun – sun 3 Jul 2011 Azura hol. no. A114 15 nights from £1,899†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Mon 6 Jun Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Wed 8 Jun Full Day Olden – Norway Thu 9 Jun Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Thu 9 Jun Evening Trondheim – Norway Fri 10 Jun Full Day Cruise in Trondheimsfjord Fri 10 Jun Evening Ny Alesund – Spitsbergen Mon 13 Jun Morning Tromsø – Norway Wed 15 Jun Full Day Geiranger – Norway Fri 17 Jun Full Day Cruise in Geirangerfjord Fri 17 Jun Evening Bergen – Norway Sat 18 Jun Full Day Southampton Mon 20 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 7 Jun Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Thu 9 Jun Full Day Bodo – Norway Sat 11 Jun Full Day Alta – Norway Sun 12 Jun Full Day Honningsvaag – Norway Mon 13 Jun Full Day Cruise off the North Cape Mon 13 Jun Midnight Hammerfest – Norway Tue 14 Jun Full Day Tromsø – Norway Wed 15 Jun Full Day Lofoten Islands – Norway Thu 16 Jun Full Day Bergen – Norway Sat 18 Jun Full Day Southampton Tue 21 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Sat 18 Jun Sail late afternoon Dublin – Ireland Mon 20 Jun Full Day Reykjavik – Iceland Thu 23 Jun Full Day Akureyri – Iceland Fri 24 Jun Afternoon Alesund – Norway Sun 26 Jun Full Day Olden – Norway Mon 27 Jun Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Mon 27 Jun Evening Bergen – Norway Tue 28 Jun Full Day Oslo – Norway Thu 30 Jun Full Day Cruise in Oslofjord Thu 30 Jun Evening Bruges (from zeebrugge) – Belgium Sat 2 Jul Full Day Southampton Sun 3 Jul Arrive early morning
Guide to Symbols land by tender
Music Festival at Sea – see page 53
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,049
£100
£10
Inside
Outside obstructed view
£2,149
£100
£10
Single Inside
£60
Outside
£2,499
£125
£20
Outside obstructed view
£2,199
£100
£10
£200
£60
Balcony
£3,099
£150
£60
Outside
£2,599
£125
£20
£5,199
£250
£125
Suite
£7,149
£250
£125
Balcony
£2,899
£150
£60
£6,249
£250
£125
Superior Deluxe Balcony
£3,399
£200
£60
Suite
£4,499
£250
£125
On Board Spending Money
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
Inside
£1,949
£100
£10
Outside
£2,349
£125
£20
Balcony
£3,049
£150
Deluxe Balcony
£3,549
Mini-Suite Suite
hoW To BooK
Stateroom Type
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
Stateroom Type
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£1,999
£100
£10
£2,499
£100
£10
Fares from
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
155
THE FJORDS, GREENLAND & ICELAND
P&O CRUISES THE FJORDS, GREENLAND & ICELAND
Tromsø
14 nights from £1,799† per person Up to £180 per person on board spending money
North Cape
Tue 21 Jun – Tue 5 Jul 2011 oriana hol. no. x110 14 nights from £1,799†pp up to £125pp on board spending money Southampton Tue 21 Jun Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Thu 23 Jun Full Day Flamm – Norway Fri 24 Jun Full Day Cruise in Sognefjord Fri 24 Jun Evening Geiranger – Norway Sat 25 Jun Full Day Cruise in Geirangerfjord Fri 25 Jun Evening Trondheim – Norway Sun 26 Jun Full Day Cruise in Trondheimsfjord Sun 26 Jun Evening Honningsvaag – Norway Tue 28 Jun AFTERNOON & EvENING Cruise off the North Cape Tue 28 Jun Midnight Tromsø – Norway Wed 29 Jun Full Day
Andalsnes – Norway Fri 1 Jul Full Day Cruise in Romsdalsfjord Fri 1 Jul Evening Olden – Norway Sat 2 Jul Full Day Cruise in Nordfjord Sat 2 Jul Evening Bergen – Norway Sun 3 Jul Full Day Southampton Tue 5 Jul Arrive early morning
Wed 6 – sun 24 Jul 2011 Aurora hol. no. r108 18 nights from £2,174†pp up to £180pp on board spending money
Thu 21 Jul – Thu 4 Aug 2011 Arcadia hol. no. J106 14 nights from £1,849†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Tue 16 – Tue 30 Aug 2011 Adonia hol. no. D107 14 nights from £1,949†pp up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Wed 6 Jul Sail late afternoon Cork (from Cobh) – Ireland Thu 7 Jul AFTERNOON & EvENING Dublin – Ireland Fri 8 Jul Full Day Julianehab (from Qaqortoq ) – Greenland Tue 12 Jul Full Day Nuuk – Greenland Thu 14 Jul Full Day Reykjavik – Iceland Sun 17 Jul Full Day Akureyri – Iceland Mon 18 Jul Afternoon Alesund – Norway Wed 20 Jul FULL DAY & EvENING Geiranger – Norway Thu 21 Jul Full Day Cruise in Geirangerfjord Thu 21 Jul Evening Bergen – Norway Fri 22 Jul Full Day Southampton Sun 24 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 21 Jul Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Sat 23 Jul Full Day Alesund – Norway Sun 24 Jul Full Day Trondheim – Norway Mon 25 Jul Full Day Cruise in Trondheimsfjord Mon 25 Jul Evening Ny Alesund – Spitsbergen Thu 28 Jul Full Day Tromsø – Norway Sat 30 Jul Full Day Bergen – Norway Mon 1 Aug Full Day Eidfjord – Norway Tue 2 Aug Full Day Cruise in Hardangerfjord Tue 2 Aug Evening Southampton Thu 4 Aug Arrive early morning
Southampton Tue 16 Aug Sail late afternoon Stavanger – Norway Thu 18 Aug Full Day Skjolden – Norway Fri 19 Aug Full Day Bodo – Norway Sun 21 Aug Full Day Honningsvaag – Norway Mon 22 Aug Afternoon Cruise off North Cape Mon 22 Aug Midnight Alta – Norway Tue 23 Aug Full Day Tromsø – Norway Wed 24 Aug Full Day Andalsnes – Norway Fri 26 Aug Full Day Cruise in Romsdalsfjord Fri 26 Aug Evening Bergen – Norway Sat 27 Aug Full Day Flekkefjord – Norway Sun 28 Aug Full Day Southampton Tue 30 Aug Arrive early morning Guide to Symbols land by tender ship usually berthed alongside
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,899
£100
£10
Outside
£2,299
£125
Deluxe Outside
£3,049
£150
Deluxe Balcony
£3,899
Mini-Suite
£5,499
Suite
£6,349
Stateroom Type
156 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/FJORDS
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,949
£100
£10
£30
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£100
£10
£90
Outside
£2,399
£125
£20
£90
Deluxe Balcony
£2,849
£200
£60
Balcony
£3,099
£150
£60
£180
Mini-Suite
£4,399
£250
£125
Suite
£7,149
£250
£125
Suite
£4,649
£250
£125
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£2,299
£125
£15
£20
Outside
£2,949
£160
£20
Balcony
£3,749
£190
£200
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£4,349
£250
£250
£125
Mini-Suite
£6,649
£315
£250
£125
Suite
£7,999
£315
£180
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
hoW To BooK
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£2,049
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£2,199
£100
£10
Outside
£2,499
£125
£20
Stateroom Type Inside
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
157
P&O CRUISES THE USA & CANADA
On the
waterfront Nothing sets a city off better than the reflection of all its best bits in its own harbour – PHILIP DODD discovers some of the best waterfront metropolises of the USA and Canada
T
he ports of the eastern seaboard of America are steeped in history, so travelling up the coastline is a wonderful journey through time. These are the cities where millions of Europeans arrived by sea to build the new American and Canadian nations.
And there is no finer way to arrive in New York than by water, following in the wake of all the grand transatlantic liners whose passengers gasped at seeing that unforgettable skyline for the first time. It is magical how New York is at the same time instantly familiar – even if you’ve never been there before – and yet always full of surprises. Along with the skyscrapers that bristle all over Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty is there to welcome every visitor. A gift to the United States of America from the French nation, the copper-green lady and her torch have been lighting the way for more than 120 years, and Ellis Island, lying in her shadow, the place where the ‘huddled masses’ began their new lives, is a must-see, just like the Statue herself – you can view both by taking a roundtrip on the Staten Island Ferry.
“...there is no finer way to arrive in New York than by water, following in the wake of all the grand transatlantic liners whose passengers gasped at seeing that unforgettable skyline for the first time.” 158 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/USA
159
P&O CRUISES THE USA & CANADA Traveller’s tips USA AND CANADA CRUISING You can choose to sail roundtrip from Southampton on board Aurora and Arcadia or opt to fly-cruise with Arcadia. Either way you can enjoy a leisurely trip to some spectacular destinations on the Eastern Seaboard of the United States and Canada. Whilst the big cities of New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston and Quebec are undoubtedly show stoppers, there’s also charm, aplenty in the smaller ports of Newport Rhode Island, Portland in Maine, St John in New Brunswick, Halifax in Nova Scotia and St John’s in Newfoundland. Go slightly further afield though and you’ll be treated to the incredible natural sights found in Alaska. There are three options if you wish to sail from and back to Southampton, with two 24 night cruises available (these are always extremely popular so you’ll need to book very early if you want to travel on either of these itineraries), or an epic 72 night voyage. Arcadia’s fly-cruises sail for anywhere between 10 and 46 nights. GETTING THERE If you’re sailing roundtrip from Southampton then regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. For Arcadia’s fly-cruises you can choose to arrange your own flights or we can arrange them for you with our Holiday Package Add-On (see page 232 for details). For more information on getting to and from your ship turn to page 70. YOUR DAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. We berth for two full days in New York, Quebec and San Francisco, so you have a chance to explore these stunning destinations. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port.
Top FIVE shore excursions: 1. New York – New York City Lights 2. Boston – Historic Boston and Cambridge 3. Halifax – Coastal Drive to Peggy’s Cove 4. Bar Harbor – Acadia National Park 5. Quebec – Countryside of Quebec
PREVIOUS PAGE Brooklyn Bridge and New York City skyline by night ABOVE Reflection of Empire State Building in the famous yellow cabs ABOVE RIGHT Halifax harbour
160 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/USA
New York is bursting with world-famous places to visit, from the soaring Empire State Building to the spiralling Guggenheim Museum – but why not spend one day simply absorbing life on the streets, like a native New Yorker? Take the subway to Central Park, that huge lung for the city, and stroll down Broadway, slicing across the grid of avenues and streets. Drop into shops along the way, or grab a hotdog or a pretzel from a street stand and sit watching humanity swirl by in all its urban intensity. When you’ve walked or shopped yourself to a standstill, hail a yellow cab and you can imagine you’re in all the New York movies you ever saw. Another water-fronted city, Boston has been at the centre of American history ever since Paul Revere rode out to warn his fellow patriots that they were in danger and disgruntled Bostonians turned the harbour into a giant teapot. This was the stopping point for the super-fast clippers winging their way in with exotic goods.
The wharves and trading centres of the Boston harbourfront have been extensively restored: Quincy Market is a great spot for lunch and the Custom House is an architectural gem. A promenade along part of the 47-mile HarborWalk is an excellent way of capturing the spirit of the city, which has a particular zing courtesy of its strong Irish links. One of its most famous sons, John F Kennedy, is celebrated in a striking library and museum; the tour ends in a quiet space for contemplation, looking out across the waters where whale-watching boats nose past the 30 Harbor Islands that teem with wildlife. Portland, Maine, which frequently figures in lists of America’s ‘most liveable cities’, is also a working harbour full of foghorn toots and seagull cries, and all things maritime feature heavily here – even the local baseball team is called the Sea Dogs. This is the home of succulent Maine lobsters; if you’re not a fan of that particular crustacean, the local clam chowders are just as sublime. The old port area, where restaurants abound, has been revitalised and there is a thriving Arts District of antique shops
and galleries based around Congress Street. The Portland Museum of Art, always worth a visit, has a core of works by American painters, furniture makers and craftsmen, and keep a sea dog’s eye out for the incredibly photogenic 200-year-old lighthouse at Portland Head. Head north and Halifax is the gateway city for Nova Scotia, a bastion for the British for many moons. Built around the second-largest natural harbour in the world, Halifax challenges New York as a desirable landing point. Pier 21 is Canada’s equivalent of Ellis Island, and everyone should stop by the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to see a single forlorn Titanic deckchair: Halifax was the base for the rescue boats. But, like the other ports of the eastern seaboard, if you look beyond the harbour, there is much more to discover. Indeed, wandering past the brightly coloured houses of Halifax, through shopping arcades built in old warehouses and across the many green spaces, is a perfect way to unwind in a city that has retained a strong sense of Britishness.
CURRENCY There are only two currencies you’ll need when going ashore; the Canadian Dollar and the US Dollar. Major credit cards are widely accepted in both countries and while the use of debit cards is widespread in Canada, many stores impose a $5 to $20 minimum per debit card purchase, and service charges may apply. If you wish to take traveller’s cheques then you’ll need Canadian Dollars for Canada and US Dollars for the USA. Pound Sterling traveller’s cheques aren’t recommended as few banks will honour them. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. PASSPORTS AND VISAS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. The US Department of Homeland Security operates a Visa Waiver Program for certain countries, the UK being one. So if you have a British Citizen passport and are planning to visit under the Visa Waiver Program it is a mandatory requirement for you to complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before you travel. The form is online and can be accessed by visiting https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov Full details on USA passport and visa information can be found on page 235 and it is important that you read this information before you book your cruise. VACCINATIONS No vaccinations are compulsory for any USA and Canada holidays but there is a risk of malarial transmission in Honduras. If you are travelling on the following Arcadia cruises; J103, JRX, JTP, JTY and JTX it is recommended that you seek advice from a Travel Medicine Clinic. Please see page 234-235 for further details of vaccinations.
161
THE USA & CANADA
P&O CRUISES THE USA & CANADA
vancouver
26 nights from £2,464† per person Up to £250 per person on board spending money
Juneau
Tue 12 Apr – Thu 23 Jun 2011 Arcadia hol. no. J103 72 nights from £6,999†pp £250pp on board spending money
Ketchikan t, Alaska – USA Thu 12 May Full Day Juneau, Alaska – USA Fri 13 May fULL DAY & EvENING Cruise in Yakutat Bay Sat 14 May Afternoon Cruise in College fjord Sun 15 May Afternoon Whittier, Alaska – USA Mon 16 May Full Day Skagway, Alaska – USA Wed 18 May Full Day Sitka h, Alaska – USA Thu 19 May Full Day Cruise in Tracy Arm Fri 20 May Morning victoria – Canada Sun 22 May fULL DAY & EvENING vancouver – Canada Mon 23 May Full Day Los Angeles – USA Thu 26 May Full Day Panama Canal Thu 2 Jun Daytime Transit
Southampton Tue 12 Apr Sail late afternoon Madeira Fri 15 Apr AfTERNOON & EvENING Antigua Thu 21 Apr Full Day St Maarten Fri 22 Apr Full Day St Lucia t Sat 23 Apr Full Day Barbados Sun 24 Apr fULL DAY & EvENING Aruba Tue 26 Apr Full Day Panama Canal Thu 28 Apr Daytime Transit Puntarenas – Costa Rica Sat 30 Apr Full Day Huatulco – Mexico Mon 2 May Full Day Acapulco – Mexico Tue 3 May Full Day San francisco – USA Sat 7 May & Sun 8 May TWO fULL DAYS Seattle – USA Tue 10 May AfTERNOON & EvENING
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Savings
Inside
£7,499
£500
Outside obstructed view
£8,649
£500
Limon – Costa Rica Fri 3 Jun Full Day Roatan – Honduras Sun 5 Jun Full Day Cozumel t – Mexico Mon 6 Jun Full Day Port Everglades (for tours to Miami) – florida, USA Wed 8 Jun Full Day Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) – florida, USA Thu 9 Jun Full Day Charleston – USA Fri 10 Jun Full Day New York – USA Sun 12 Jun & Mon 13 Jun TWO fULL DAYS Newport h – Rhode Island, USA Tue 14 Jun Full Day Boston – USA Wed 15 Jun Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Mon 20 Jun Morning Southampton Thu 23 Jun Arrive early morning
Outside
£9,479
£630
Guide to Symbols h land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside
Deluxe Balcony
£10,999
£1,000
Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Mini-Suite
£18,599
£1,300
Suite
£20,149
£1,300
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes applicable savings and excludes Holiday Package Add On. ° Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Holiday Package Add On.
162 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/USA
Tue 12 Apr – sun 8 May 2011 Arcadia hol. no. JMr 26 nights from £2,464†pp £65pp on board spending money
Tue 12 Apr – Thu 26 May 2011 Arcadia hol. no. JMT 44 nights from £4,399†pp £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Tue 12 Apr Sail late afternoon Madeira Fri 15 Apr AfTERNOON & EvENING Antigua Thu 21 Apr Full Day St Maarten Fri 22 Apr Full Day St Lucia t Sat 23 Apr Full Day Barbados Sun 24 Apr fULL DAY & EvENING Aruba Tue 26 Apr Full Day Panama Canal Thu 28 Apr Daytime Transit Puntarenas – Costa Rica Sat 30 Apr Full Day Huatulco – Mexico Mon 2 May Full Day Acapulco – Mexico Tue 3 May Full Day San francisco – USA Sat 7 May fULL DAY & OvERNIGHT UK fly to UK
Southampton Tue 12 Apr Sail late afternoon Madeira Fri 15 Apr AfTERNOON & EvENING Antigua Thu 21 Apr Full Day St Maarten Fri 22 Apr Full Day St Lucia t Sat 23 Apr Full Day Barbados Sun 24 Apr fULL DAY & EvENING Aruba Tue 26 Apr Full Day Panama Canal Thu 28 Apr Daytime Transit Puntarenas – Costa Rica Sat 30 Apr Full Day Huatulco – Mexico Mon 2 May Full Day Acapulco – Mexico Tue 3 May Full Day San francisco – USA Sat 7 May & Sun 8 May TWO fULL DAYS
Seattle – USA Tue 10 May AfTERNOON & EvENING Ketchikan t, Alaska – USA Thu 12 May Full Day Juneau, Alaska – USA Fri 13 May fULL DAY & EvENING Cruise in Yakutat Bay Sat 14 May Afternoon Cruise in College fjord Sun 15 May Afternoon Whittier, Alaska – USA Mon 16 May Full Day Skagway, Alaska – USA Wed 18 May Full Day Sitka h, Alaska – USA Thu 19 May Full Day Cruise in Tracy Arm Fri 20 May Morning victoria – Canada Sun 22 May fULL DAY & EvENING vancouver – Canada Mon 23 May Full Day Los Angeles – USA Thu 26 May UK fly to UK
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
HOLIDAY PACKAGE ADD-ON INCLUDES:
Inside
£2,649
£185
Inside
£4,699
£300
Outside obstructed view
£3,099
£185
Outside obstructed view
£5,399
£300
Outside
£3,349
£230
Outside
£5,949
£400
Deluxe Balcony
£4,099
£370
Deluxe Balcony
£6,999
£650
Mini-Suite
£6,599
£465
Mini-Suite
£11,699
£800
Suite
£7,149
£465
Suite
£12,599
£800
• International economy flights to/from London • Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on dates specified • Hotel rooms and meals where flight timings require an overnight stay either before or after your cruise See page 232 for more details.
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
hoW To BooK
£249 12 Apr 11 9 May 11 27 £2,713°
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
£269 12 Apr 11 27 May 11 45 £4,668°
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
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P&O CRUISES THE USA & CANADA
Boston
13 nights from £1,304† per person Up to £125 per person on board spending money sun 8 May – Thu 23 Jun 2011 Arcadia hol. no. Jrx 46 nights from £4,699†pp £125pp on board spending money
Thu 26 May – Wed 8 Jun 2011 Arcadia hol. no. JTp 13 nights from £1,304†pp £35pp on board spending money Panama Canal Thu 2 Jun Daytime Transit Limon – Costa Rica Fri 3 Jun Full Day Roatan – Honduras Sun 5 Jun Full Day Cozumel t – Mexico Mon 6 Jun Full Day Port Everglades (for tours to Miami) – florida, USA Wed 8 Jun Full Day Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) – florida, USA Thu 9 Jun Full Day Charleston – USA Fri 10 Jun Full Day New York – USA Sun 12 Jun & Mon 13 Jun TWO fULL DAYS Newport h – Rhode Island, USA Tue 14 Jun Full Day Boston – USA Wed 15 Jun Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Mon 20 Jun Morning Southampton Thu 23 Jun Arrive early morning
UK fly to San francisco – USA Sun 8 May Seattle – USA Tue 10 May AfTERNOON & EvENING Ketchikan t, Alaska – USA Thu 12 May Full Day Juneau, Alaska – USA Fri 13 May fULL DAY & EvENING Cruise in Yakutat Bay Sat 14 May Afternoon Cruise in College fjord Sun 15 May Afternoon Whittier, Alaska – USA Mon 16 May Full Day Skagway, Alaska – USA Wed 18 May Full Day Sitka h, Alaska – USA Thu 19 May Full Day Cruise in Tracy Arm Fri 20 May Morning victoria – Canada Sun 22 May fULL DAY & EvENING vancouver – Canada Mon 23 May Full Day Los Angeles – USA Thu 26 May Full Day
UK fly to Los Angeles – USA Thu 26 May Panama Canal Thu 2 Jun Daytime Transit Limon – Costa Rica Fri 3 Jun Full Day Roatan – Honduras Sun 5 Jun Full Day Cozumel t – Mexico Mon 6 Jun Full Day Port Everglades – florida, USA Wed 8 Jun UK fly to UK
HOLIDAY PACKAGE ADD-ON INCLUDES: • International economy flights to/from London • Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on dates specified • Hotel rooms and meals where flight timings require an overnight stay either before or after your cruise See page 232 for more details.
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
Inside
£4,999
£300
Inside
£1,399
£95
Outside obstructed view
£5,749
£300
Outside obstructed view
£1,599
£95
Outside
£6,349
£400
Outside
£1,749
£115
Deluxe Balcony
£7,399
£650
Mini-Suite
£12,399
£800
Suite
£13,449
£800
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
164 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/USA
£359 8 May 11 23 Jun 11 46 £5,058°
Guide to Symbols h land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes applicable savings and excludes Holiday Package Add On. ° Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Holiday Package Add On.
Deluxe Balcony
£2,149
£185
Mini-Suite
£3,449
£230
Suite
£3,749
£230
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
£649 26 May 11 9 Jun 11 14 £1,953°
hoW To BooK
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
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THE USA & CANADA
P&O CRUISES THE USA & CANADA
10 nights from £979† per person
Up to £180 per person on board spending money Newport
Thu 26 May – Mon 13 Jun 2011 Arcadia hol. no. JTY 18 nights from £1,679†pp £45pp on board spending money
Thu 26 May – Thu 23 Jun 2011 Arcadia hol. no. JTx 28 nights from £2,799†pp £70pp on board spending money
Wed 8 – Thu 23 Jun 2011 Arcadia hol. no. Jpx 15 nights from £1,494†pp £40pp on board spending money
Mon 13 – Thu 23 Jun 2011 Arcadia hol. no. JYx 10 nights from £979†pp
Wed 31 Aug – sat 24 sep 2011 Arcadia hol. no. J109 24 nights from £2,874†pp up to £225pp on board spending money
sun 18 sep – Wed 12 oct 2011 Aurora hol. no. r113 24 nights from £2,874†pp up to £225pp on board spending money
UK fly to Los Angeles – USA Thu 26 May Panama Canal Thu 2 Jun Daytime Transit Limon – Costa Rica Fri 3 Jun Full Day Roatan – Honduras Sun 5 Jun Full Day Cozumel t – Mexico Mon 6 Jun Full Day Port Everglades (for tours to Miami) – florida, USA Wed 8 Jun Full Day Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) – florida, USA Thu 9 Jun Full Day Charleston – USA Fri 10 Jun Full Day New York – USA Sun 12 Jun fULL DAY & OvERNIGHT UK fly to UK
UK fly to Los Angeles – USA Thu 26 May Panama Canal Thu 2 Jun Daytime Transit Limon – Costa Rica Fri 3 Jun Full Day Roatan – Honduras Sun 5 Jun Full Day Cozumel t – Mexico Mon 6 Jun Full Day Port Everglades (for tours to Miami) – florida, USA Wed 8 Jun Full Day Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) – florida, USA Thu 9 Jun Full Day Charleston – USA Fri 10 Jun Full Day New York – USA Sun 12 Jun & Mon 13 Jun TWO fULL DAYS Newport h – Rhode Island, USA Tue 14 Jun Full Day Boston – USA Wed 15 Jun Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Mon 20 Jun Morning Southampton Thu 23 Jun Arrive early morning
UK fly to Port Everglades – florida, USA Wed 8 Jun Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) – florida, USA Thu 9 Jun Full Day Charleston – USA Fri 10 Jun Full Day New York – USA Sun 12 Jun & Mon 13 Jun TWO fULL DAYS Newport h – Rhode Island, USA Tue 14 Jun Full Day Boston – USA Wed 15 Jun Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Mon 20 Jun Morning Southampton Thu 23 Jun Arrive early morning
UK fly to New York – USA Mon 13 Jun Newport h – Rhode Island, USA Tue 14 Jun Full Day Boston – USA Wed 15 Jun Full Day Ponta Delgada – Azores Mon 20 Jun Morning Southampton Thu 23 Jun Arrive early morning
Southampton Wed 31 Aug Sail late afternoon New York – USA Wed 7 Sep TWO fULL DAYS Newport h – Rhode Island, USA Fri 9 Sep Full Day Boston – USA Sat 10 Sep fULL DAY & EvENING Portland – Maine, USA Sun 11 Sep Full Day Bar Harbor h – Maine, USA Mon 12 Sep Full Day St John – New Brunswick, Canada Tue 13 Sep Full Day Halifax – Nova Scotia, Canada Wed 14 Sep Full Day Quebec – Canada Fri 16 Sep TWO fULL DAYS St John’s – Newfoundland, Canada Mon 19 Sep Afternoon Southampton Sat 24 Sep Arrive early morning
Southampton Sun 18 Sep Sail late afternoon New York – USA Sun 25 Sep TWO fULL DAYS Newport h – Rhode Island, USA Tue 27 Sep Full Day Boston – USA Wed 28 Sep fULL DAY & EvENING Portland – Maine, USA Thu 29 Sep Full Day Bar Harbor h – Maine, USA Fri 30 Sep Full Day St John – New Brunswick, Canada Sat 1 Oct Full Day Halifax – Nova Scotia, Canada Sun 2 Oct Full Day Quebec – Canada Tue 4 Oct TWO fULL DAYS St John’s – Newfoundland, Canada Fri 7 Oct Afternoon Southampton Wed 12 Oct Arrive early morning
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
Inside
£1,799
£120
Inside
£2,999
Outside obstructed view
£2,099
£120
Outside obstructed view
£3,449
Outside
£2,299
£150
Outside
£3,799
Deluxe Balcony
£2,799
£245
Deluxe Balcony
£4,599
Mini-Suite
£4,499
£305
Mini-Suite
Suite
£4,899
£305
Suite
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
166 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/USA
£549 26 May 11 14 Jun 11 19 £2,228°
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
HOLIDAY PACKAGE ADD-ON INCLUDES: • International economy flights to/from London • Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on dates specified • Hotel rooms and meals where flight timings require an overnight stay either before or after your cruise See page 232 for more details.
Guide to Symbols h land by tender t ship usually berthed alongside Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£3,049
£175
£15
Inside
£3,049
£175
£15
Outside obstructed view
£3,349
£175
£15
Outside
£3,849
£220
£30
£90
Outside
£3,949
£220
£30
Balcony
£5,149
£265
£90
£145
Deluxe Balcony
£4,799
£350
£90
Deluxe Balcony
£5,999
£350
£90
£180
Mini-Suite
£7,499
£440
£180
Mini-Suite
£8,749
£440
£180
£180
Suite
£7,899
£440
£180
Suite
£10,499
£440
£180
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
Stateroom Type
Cruise only fares from
Savings
£200
Inside
£1,599
£105
Inside
£1,049
£70
£200
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£105
Outside obstructed view
£1,249
£70
£250
Outside
£2,049
£135
Outside
£1,349
£400
Deluxe Balcony
£2,499
£215
Deluxe Balcony
£1,649
£7,449
£500
Mini-Suite
£3,999
£270
Mini-Suite
£2,649
£8,049
£500
Suite
£4,299
£270
Suite
£2,899
£399 26 May 11 23 Jun 11 28 £3,198°
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
£379 7 Jun 11 23 Jun 11 16 £1,873°
Holiday Package add-on from Depart UK Arrive UK Total holiday duration Full holiday package from
hoW To BooK
Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied to per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of staterooms grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † For cruises J109 and R113 the price shown includes the Early Bird Savings, but for all other cruises the price shown includes applicable savings and excludes the Holiday Package add-on. ‡ Price shown includes savings. * Applicable to J109 and R113 only. °Price shown includes Early Bird Savings and Holiday Package Add On.
Stateroom Type
Stateroom Type
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
£279 13 Jun 11 23 Jun 11 10 £1,258°
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
167
TRAVELLER’S TIPS
Beautiful Britain A circumnavigation of the British Isles reveals that some of the most beautiful sights are those close to home, as CATHY VINE explains.
A
castle rising above a city of golden sandstone, woodlands carpeted with bluebells, vast lakes where legendary monsters live, and remote and empty sweeps of golden sand: in this age of long-haul travel, it’s all too easy to overlook the treasures on our own doorstep. Think of Britain’s east coast and it conjures up an eclectic set of images: the endless beaches of north Norfolk; the cliffs that rise up behind pretty coastal towns such as Whitby; the mouth of the Tyne, gateway to Newcastle. In the past decade, this city has been transformed, with the creation of new landmarks and the restoration of some older ones. There seem to be sculptures everywhere, though the most famous of all – Antony Gormley’s spectacular Angel of the North – is actually a few miles south of town. It’s all a delightful contrast to the scenic emptiness of the north Northumbrian shore, England’s frontier, with its dramatic castles and lonely islets. Scotland, too, has unspoilt natural beauty in abundance. That said, no visit would be complete without a stop in its cultured capital Edinburgh, rightly considered one of the most picturesque cities in Europe. Built on and around a series of rocky crags, it has everything from elegant Georgian squares and terraces to medieval lanes overlooked by an ancient and romantic castle. In much of the northern kingdom, you won’t even have to stir from deck to appreciate scenery such as the dramatic cliffs and endless beaches of the northeast coast or the lonely and inspiring west coast, much of it inaccessible by road. However, stepping ashore allows you to see even more of it. From historic Kirkwall, capital of the Orkney Islands, you can make for smaller isles fringed with squeaky-clean beaches or stroll through meadows of wildflowers. In the far-flung Shetland Islands, the scenery’s altogether more epic, with towering cliffs and fjord-like inlets, not to mention a profusion of birds and a large colony of otters. Sailing through the Outer Hebrides, off the mainland’s northwest coast, offers a beguiling mix of natural and manmade pleasures: seals and dolphins,
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spectacular sunsets and glinting white beaches, inspiring mountain scenery and an insight into life at the edge of the British Isles. The archipelago’s only town, Stornoway, on the east coast of the Isle of Lewis, has bags of character and charm. You could easily fill a day with visits to the An Lanntair arts centre and quirky shops. It would be a shame to miss the mystical Callanish Standing Stones, a mini Stonehenge on Lewis’ west coast. Further south, gritty Belfast is a complete contrast to the tranquillity of the Western Isles, but just as inspiring in its own way. Newer sights such as the Belfast Wheel rub shoulders with stalwarts such as the majestic City Hall and St George’s Market, the oldest covered market in Ireland. A drink at The Crown Liquor Saloon in Great Victoria Street is a must; owned by the National Trust, this Victorian pub still has its original ornate interior and the atmosphere is unique. Continuing around Britain’s west coast, the scenic Isle of Man rises from the sea like a mini-Lake District, where the clocks seem to have stopped sometime in the 1950s. There are still horse-drawn trams in the diminutive capital Douglas, while steam trains puff their way into the mountainous interior, and the cream teas are just like mother used to make. There are more beauties to glide past or stop at as the journey continues: Ireland’s enchanting capital Dublin; the glorious coasts of Wales and Cornwall; and postcard-pretty Guernsey, another island with old-world charm, along with a moving history and plenty of marine life from seals to puffins. It’s all the proof you could ever need that sometimes the best things in life are right in front of your nose.
TOp five sHOre excUrsiONs: 1. Dublin – River Cruise and City Sights 2. South Queensferry (for Edinburgh) – Holyrood Palace and Royal Yacht Britannia 3. Invergordon – Loch Ness Panoramic 4. Greenock – City of Glasgow and Kelvingrove Gallery 5. Cobh – Blarney Castle
Liverpool
AROUND BRITAIN CRUISING Board in Southampton and enjoy a leisurely roundtrip to some spectacular destinations. Our Around Britain cruises take you to explore our own fair isle; visiting Northern and Southern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England, as well as the Isle of Man, Guernsey and the Shetland Islands.
AROUND BRITAIN
P&O CRUISES AROUND BRITAIN
Dublin
Durations are 12-13 nights and cruises only sail a couple of times a year in July and August, so they are extremely popular, you’ll need to book very early if you want to travel on either of these itineraries. GETTING THERE Unsurprisingly, all our Around Britain cruises sail directly from Southampton. Regional coach transfers can be arranged and parking is available at the terminal. Check in is simple and there are no restrictions on luggage. For more information on getting to and from your ship turn to page 70. YOUR DAY ASHORE Typically, your ship will arrive in port between 7am and 10am, and depart between 4pm and 6.30pm. To make the most of your time ashore, you can join a variety of organised shore excursions, or explore on your own. Either way you can take advantage of the port talks we hold on board before you arrive in port. CURRENCY As you would expect from an ‘Around Britain’ cruise, Pounds Sterling is the main currency you need, with the exception of Southern Ireland where they have adopted the Euro as their national currency. Each ship offers a bureau de change facility at very competitive rates – all transactions will be added to your on board account. CASINO Because these cruises sail around the UK and are therefore subject to legislation regarding the opening of the casino in UK territorial waters, we have to alter our usual practice (usually the casinos can open once we’re in international waters). For Adonia’s cruise D105 the casino will be open shortly after sailing from Southampton until she sails from Dublin, but will then be closed until she departs Kirkwall. It will remain open as normal for the remainder of the cruise. For Arcadia’s cruise J108 the casino cannot open until the ship sails from Liverpool, but from then onwards the casino will open as normal. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND VACCINATIONS You’ll need to have 6 months validity on your passport after the date of your return and children must have their own passport. And of course, there aren’t any compulsory vaccinations required for any of our Around Britain holidays. Please see page 234-235 for further details of visas and vaccinations.
Thu 14 – Tue 26 Jul 2011 Adonia Hol. No. D105 12 nights from £1,674†pp Up to £125pp on board spending money
Thu 18 – Wed 31 Aug 2011 Arcadia Hol. No. J108 13 nights from £1,749†pp Up to £125pp on board spending money
Southampton Thu 14 Jul Sail late afternoon Dublin – Ireland Sat 16 Jul Full Day Douglas h – Isle of Man Sun 17 Jul Full Day Belfast – Ireland Mon 18 Jul Full Day Glasgow (from Greenock) – Scotland Tue 19 Jul Full Day Stornoway h – Outer Hebrides, Scotland Wed 20 Jul Full Day Kirkwall h – Orkney Islands Thu 21 Jul Full Day Foynes – Ireland Sat 23 Jul Full Day Waterford h – Ireland Sun 24 Jul Full Day Jersey – British Isles Mon 25 Jul Full Day Southampton Tue 26 Jul Arrive early morning
Southampton Thu 18 Aug Sail late afternoon Newcastle – England Sat 20 Aug Full Day Edinburgh (from Queensferry) h – Scotland Sun 21 Aug Full Day Invergordon – Scotland Mon 22 Aug Full Day Lerwick h – Shetland Islands Tue 23 Aug Full Day Glasgow (from Greenock) – Scotland Thu 25 Aug Full Day Belfast – Ireland Fri 26 Aug Full Day Liverpool – England Sat 27 Aug Full Day Dublin – Ireland Sun 28 Aug Full Day Cork (from Cobh) – Ireland Mon 29 Aug Full Day St Peter Port h – Guernsey Tue 30 Aug Full Day Southampton Wed 31 Aug Arrive early morning
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,849
£100
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,999
£100
£10
£20
Outside
£2,299
£125
£20
£115
£60
Deluxe Balcony
£2,699
£200
£60
£190
£125
Mini-Suite
£4,299
£250
£125
Suite
£4,549
£250
£125
Fares from
Early Bird Savings
On Board Spending Money
Inside
£1,749
£75
£10
Outside obstructed view
£1,849
£75
£10
Outside
£2,149
£95
Balcony
£2,649
Suite
£6,249
Stateroom Type
HOW TO BOOK
Stateroom Type
ONLINE at pocruises.co.uk
BY PHONE on 0845 3 555 333
12 nights from £1,674† per person Up to £125 per person on board spending money
Guide to Symbols h land by tender Single Supplements, Family and Share Saver reductions can be found on page 230 Portunus Club Cruise – see page 232 Fares and on board spending money shown are per adult based on upon two sharing and are subject to availability. The savings are the maximum saving available and are applied per adult to the ‘fares from’. There is a range of stateroom grades within each type displayed and prices shown are the lowest grade available. Please see deck plans for details. † Price shown includes Early Bird Savings.
IN-STORE at ABTA travel agents
169
VENTURA STATEROOMS Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) or picture mirror* (inside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space
SUPERIOR DELUXE BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with full-size bath, shower, sink vanity unit and WC • Lounge area with sofa, chairs and table • Two flat screen TVs • Interactive TV System • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and chairs
*Some exceptions apply
SUITE • Separate bedroom with two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with whirlpool bath*, shower and WC • Walk-in dressing area* • Iron and ironing board • Lounge area with sofa, armchairs, plus dining table and chairs in AB grade • Mini stereo • Two flat screen TVs • Interactive TV System • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with chairs and tables Special touches Butler service • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Exclusive access to The White Room for breakfast • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Free films • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket • Flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés Between approx 489 and 742 square feet (including balcony) *Some exceptions apply.
Special touches Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack • Bathrobe and slippers •Magazine selection • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit bowl, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Canapés once a week Approx 324 square feet (including balcony)
BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and chairs • Interactive TV System Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 233 square feet (including balcony)
AE GRADE SUITE (FOR 4 TO 6 PERSONS) • Ideal for families or sharing couples • Two bedrooms, one with two lower beds convertible to king-size, one with two lower fixed twin beds and two upper pullman berths • Two bathrooms, one with full-size bath and WC, one with shower and WC • Dressing area, iron and ironing board • Two flat screen TVs and a Mini stereo • Interactive TV System • Lounge area with sofa, table and chairs • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with lounger, table and chairs
INSIDE/OUTSIDE STATEROOM
Special touches Butler service • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Free films • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés
Approx 160 square feet
Approx 700 square feet (including balcony)
• Choice of either inside or outside stateroom • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC • Interactive TV System Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack
*Some exceptions apply. When three/four passengers share a stateroom with upper berths, for safety reasons the two lower berths cannot be pushed together.
The diagrams shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown. The diagrams are not to scale.
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171
SPORTS DECK
VENTURA DECK PLANS
Ventura - 115,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2008 Normal operating capacity: 3,078 passengers and 1,226 crew (maximum operating capacity: 3,574 passengers)
SUN DECK
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB AC AD
A deck Riviera deck Lido, A, C, D & E decks
Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower ‥
AE
D deck
Superior Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
CA CB CC
D deck D deck D & E decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB JC JD JE JF JG
Riviera & A decks B & C decks Riviera & A decks Lido deck
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
E & P decks Riviera & P decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Part Obstructed View)
MA
Lido & E decks
LIDO DECK
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Obstructed View)
NA
E deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA OB OC OD OE OF OG
Riviera deck Riviera & A decks B, C, D & E decks Lido deck Riviera & A decks
RIVIERA DECK
B & C decks D, E & P decks
B & C decks Riviera & A decks B, C, D & E decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms and in the form of an upper pullman berth in all other staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in AB-AD grade Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms, and in the form of upper pullman berths in AE grade Suites and all other staterooms. Please note, balcony staterooms R311-R751 and R314-R752 on Riviera Deck are partially shaded.
A DECK
Please see page 174 for stateroom notes.
CIRQUE DECK
SKY DECK
B DECK
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173
C DECK
VENTURA DECK PLANS
Ventura - 115,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2008 Normal operating capacity: 3,078 passengers and 1,226 crew (maximum operating capacity: 3,574 passengers)
D DECK
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB AC AD
A deck Riviera deck Lido, A, C, D & E decks
Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower ‡
AE
D deck
Superior Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
CA CB CC
D deck D deck D & E decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB JC JD JE JF JG
Riviera & A decks B & C decks Riviera & A decks Lido deck
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
E & P decks Riviera & P decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Part Obstructed View)
MA
Lido & E decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Obstructed View)
NA
E DECK
E deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA OB OC OD OE OF OG
Riviera deck Riviera & A decks B, C, D & E decks Lido deck Riviera & A decks
PROM DECK
B & C decks D, E & P decks
B & C decks Riviera & A decks B, C, D & E decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms and in the form of an upper pullman berth in all other staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in AB-AD grade Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms, and in the form of upper pullman berths in AE grade Suites and all other staterooms.
F DECK
VENTURA STATEROOM NOTES † Staterooms have fixed twin beds.
‡ AE Suite: D105 and D106 are large suites consisting of two bedrooms, two bathrooms with bath and shower, a lounge and a large balcony. These suites are suitable for sharing couples or families. AD Suite: Suites L106 and L107 are larger than the standard AD Suites and have segregated sleeping and living areas. Please note that suites L106 and L107 do not feature a dressing area, they have a standard bath instead of a whirlpool bath, with a fixed shower attachment. Suites L106 and L107 have a metal fronted balcony side and a view over the observation deck area as well as a sea view. Balcony Stateroom: Please note staterooms B750, B751, B752, B753, D734, D735, E734 & E735 have an obstructed view due to the ship’s structure. Please note staterooms L201 & L202 have a steel fronted balcony.
G DECK
P DECK
MA & NA Staterooms: Please note that safety equipment obstructs the view of all these staterooms. Adapted Staterooms: All adapted staterooms have a shower only. All upper berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double.
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175
OCEANA STATEROOMS Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) or picture mirror* (inside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space *Some exceptions apply
BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with a shower and WC • Chair and table • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack
SUITE • Separate bedroom with a fixed king-size bed • Bathroom with whirlpool bath, separate shower, two sinks and WC • Walk-in wardrobe with separate dressing area • Iron, ironing board and trouser press • Lounge area with sofa bed, table and chairs • Two TVs • DVD player • Mini stereo • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs Special touches Butler service • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés Approx 538 square feet (including balcony)
Approx 178 square feet (including balcony)
OUTSIDE STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC • Chair and table Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 155 square feet
MINI-SUITE • Separate bedroom area with two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with whirlpool bath, separate shower and WC* • Lounge area with sofa, table and chair • DVD player • Walk-in wardrobe with separate dressing area • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs Special touches Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars • Daily canapés • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival
INSIDE STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC • Chair and table Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 135 square feet *Some exceptions apply. When three/four passengers share a stateroom with upper berths, for safety reasons the two lower berths cannot be pushed together.
Approx 375 square feet (including balcony)
*Some exceptions apply.
The diagrams shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown. The diagrams are not to scale. 176 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/OCEANA
177
OCEANA DECK PLANS SKY DECK
Oceana - 77,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2000 Normal operating capacity: 2,016 passengers and 870 crew (maximum operating capacity: 2,272 passengers)
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB
B, C & D decks
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BA BB BC
B, C & D decks B deck B deck
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB
A, B & C decks Lido, A, B & C decks
SUN DECK Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
D deck E & F decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Obstructed View)
NA
D deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OB OC OD
A, B & C decks Lido, A, B & C decks D, E & F decks
LIDO DECK
Larger Outside Stateroom with Shower
LA
A, B & C decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in Suites/Mini Suites, and in the form of an upper pullman berth in all other staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in Suites/Mini Suites, and in the form of upper pullman berths in all other staterooms.
OCEANA STATEROOM NOTES Suites/Mini-Suites: AB and BA grades have a fixed double bed. BA grades on C and D deck have a fixed shower over bath.
A DECK
† Balcony Staterooms: Staterooms A640, A641, A730, A732, A735, A737, B730, B732, B735, B737 consist of a fixed lower single berth plus one lower and two upper pullman berths which fold against the wall. These staterooms are intended for 3/4 berth use and are fixed single berths. † Outside Stateroom: LC Staterooms F225 - F244 have fixed twin beds. NA Staterooms: Please note that safety equipment obstructs the view of all these staterooms. † Inside Stateroom: Please note some inside staterooms have fixed twin beds. Adapted Staterooms: Adapted Mini-Suite B335 has a shower only. D315, D324, D326, D327 and D329 have fixed twin beds. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double.
B DECK
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179
OCEANA DECK PLANS C DECK
Oceana - 77,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2000 Normal operating capacity: 2,016 passengers and 870 crew (maximum operating capacity: 2,272 passengers)
D DECK
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB
B, C & D decks
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BA BB BC
B, C & D decks B deck B deck
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB
A, B & C decks Lido, A, B & C decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
D deck E & F decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Obstructed View)
NA
D deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OB OC OD
A, B & C decks
Safety equipment blocks the view of all NA grade staterooms on this deck
Lido, A, B & C decks D, E & F decks
PROM DECK
Larger Outside Stateroom with Shower
LA
A, B & C decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in Suites/Mini Suites, and in the form of an upper pullman berth in all other staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in Suites/Mini Suites, and in the form of upper pullman berths in all other staterooms.
OCEANA STATEROOM NOTES Suites/Mini-Suites: AB and BA grades have a fixed double bed. BA grades on C and D deck have a fixed shower over bath.
E DECK
† Balcony Staterooms: Staterooms A640, A641, A730, A732, A735, A737, B730, B732, B735, B737 consist of a fixed lower single berth plus one lower and two upper pullman berths which fold against the wall. These staterooms are intended for 3/4 berth use and are fixed single berths. † Outside Stateroom: LC Staterooms F225 - F244 have fixed twin beds. NA Staterooms: Please note that safety equipment obstructs the view of all these staterooms. † Inside Stateroom: Please note some inside staterooms have fixed twin beds. Adapted Staterooms: Adapted Mini-Suite B335 has a shower only. D315, D324, D326, D327 and D329 have fixed twin beds. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double.
F DECK
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AZURA STATEROOMS Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) or picture mirror* (inside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space *Some exceptions apply
BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with coffee table and recliner chairs • Interactive TV System
SUITE • Separate bedroom with two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with whirlpool bath*, shower and WC • Walk-in dressing area* • Iron and ironing board • Lounge area with sofa, armchairs, plus dining table and chairs in AB grade • Mini stereo • Two flat screen TVs • Interactive TV System • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with loungers*, chairs and table
Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 233 square feet (including balcony)
Special touches Butler service • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Exclusive access to Seventeen for breakfast • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés • Coffee machine Between approx 489 and 742 square feet (including balcony)
*Some exceptions apply.
INSIDE/OUTSIDE STATEROOM • Choice of either inside or outside stateroom • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC • Interactive TV System Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 160 square feet
SUPERIOR DELUXE BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with full-size bath, shower, sink vanity unit and WC • Lounge area with sofa, chairs and coffee table • Two flat screen TVs • Interactive TV System • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with coffee table and recliner chairs Special touches Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack • Bathrobe and slippers • Atlas and binoculars • Flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Fruit bowl • Canapés once a week • Magazine selection Approx 324 square feet (including balcony)
INSIDE/OUTSIDE SINGLE STATEROOM • Choice of either inside or outside stateroom • One lower single bed • Bathroom with shower and WC • Interactive TV System Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 130 square feet *Some exceptions apply. When three/four passengers share a stateroom with upper berths, for safety reasons the two lower berths cannot be pushed together.
The diagrams shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown. The diagrams are not to scale. 182 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/AZURA
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SUN DECK
AZURA DECK PLANS
Azura - 115,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Will enter service in 2010 Normal operating capacity: 3,100 passengers and 1,226 crew (maximum operating capacity: 3,574 passengers)
AQUA DECK
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB AC AD
A deck Riviera deck Lido, A, C, D & E decks
Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower ‥
AE
D deck
Superior Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
CA CB CC
D deck D deck D & E decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB JC JD JE JF JG
Riviera & A decks B & C decks Riviera & A decks Lido deck B & C decks Riviera & A decks Riviera, A, B, C, D & E decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
E & P decks P deck
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Part Obstructed View)
MA
Lido & E decks
LIDO DECK
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Obstructed View)
NA
E deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA OB OC OD OE OF OG
Riviera deck Riviera & A decks B, C, D & E decks The balconies in staterooms L218-L312 and L219-L311 are partially shaded.
Lido deck Riviera & A decks
RIVIERA DECK
B & C decks D, E & P decks
Outside Single Stateroom
RA
F deck
Inside Single Stateroom
SA
F deck
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a sofa bed in Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms and in the form of an upper pullman berth in all other staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in AB-AD grade Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms, and in the form of upper pullman berths in AE grade Suites and all other staterooms.
A DECK
The balconies in staterooms R311-R751 and R314-R752 are partially shaded.
Please see page 186 for stateroom notes.
SKY DECK
OCEAN DECK
B DECK
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The balconies in staterooms A101, A102, A103 & A104 are partially shaded.
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C DECK
AZURA DECK PLANS
Azura - 115,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Will enter service in 2010 Normal operating capacity: 3,100 passengers and 1,226 crew (maximum operating capacity: 3,574 passengers)
D DECK
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB AC AD
A deck Riviera deck Lido, A, C, D & E decks
Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower‡
AE
D deck
Superior Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
CA CB CC
D deck D deck D & E decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB JC JD JE JF JG
Riviera & A decks B & C decks Riviera & A decks Lido deck B & C decks Riviera & A decks Riviera, A, B, C, D & E decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
E & P decks P deck
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Part Obstructed View)
MA
Lido & E decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Obstructed View)
NA
E DECK
E deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA OB OC OD OE OF OG
Riviera deck Riviera & A decks B, C, D & E decks Lido deck Riviera & A decks B & C decks
The balconies in stateroom E101 - E119 benefit from complete shade
PROM DECK
D, E & P decks
Outside Single Stateroom
RA
F deck
Inside Single Stateroom
SA
F deck
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms and in the form of an upper pullman berth in all other staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in AB-AD grade Suites and Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms, and in the form of upper pullman berths in AE grade Suites and all other staterooms.
F DECK
AZURA STATEROOM NOTES † Staterooms have fixed twin beds. ‡ AE Suite: D105 and D106 are large suites consisting of two bedrooms, two bathrooms with bath and shower, a lounge and a large balcony. These suites are suitable for sharing couples or families. Please note D101 and D102 have fixed twin beds. AD Suite: Suites L106 and L107 are larger than the standard AD Suites and have segregated sleeping and living areas. Please note that suites L106 and L107 do not feature a dressing area, a dividing curtain, they have a standard bath instead of a whirlpool bath, with a fixed shower attachment. Suites L106 and L107 have a metal fronted balcony side and a view over the observation deck area as well as a sea view. Balcony Stateroom: Please note staterooms B750, B751, B752, B753, C099, C100, D734, D735, E734 & E735 have an obstructed view due to the ship’s structure. A101 & A102 balcony staterooms are overlooked from the bridge. Staterooms A101, A102, A103, A104, C099, C100, L201 & L202 have a steel fronted balcony. Suites L106 and L107 have a metal fronted balcony side and a view over the observation deck, as well as a sea view. MA & NA Staterooms: Please note that safety equipment obstructs the view of all these staterooms. Adapted Staterooms: All adapted staterooms have a shower only. All upper berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double. 186 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK/AZURA
G DECK
P DECK
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ARCADIA STATEROOMS Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) or picture mirror* (inside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space *Some exceptions apply
DELUXE BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with small bath, shower and WC* • Two-seater sofa and table • Floor to ceiling glass doors leading to balcony with table and chairs
SUITE • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with full-size whirlpool bath*, separate shower, dual sink vanity unit and WC • Dressing area • Iron, ironing board and trouser press • Lounge area with sofa, chairs and table • DVD player • Mini stereo • Floor to ceiling glass doors leading to balcony with table and chairs and steamer chairs
Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 254 square feet (including balcony)
Special touches Butler service (inclusive but optional) • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés Approx 516 square feet (including balcony) *Some exceptions apply.
OUTSIDE STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with small bath or shower and WC Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 170 square feet
MINI-SUITE • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with full-size whirlpool bath*, separate shower, dual sink vanity unit and WC • Iron, ironing board and trouser press • Sofa, chair and table • DVD player • Floor to ceiling glass doors leading to balcony with table and chairs and steamers Special touches Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars • Daily canapés • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival Approx 384 square feet (including balcony)
INSIDE STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with or shower and WC
LARGE INSIDE TWIN In addition to the above, in a large Inside Twin stateroom there is a two-seater sofa Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 170 square feet
*Some exceptions apply.
*Some exceptions apply.
The diagrams shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown. The diagrams are not to scale.
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ARCADIA DECK PLANS SKY DECK
Arcadia – 83,700 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2005 Normal operating capacity: 2,016 passengers and 880 crew (maximum operating capacity: 2,120 passengers)
SUN DECK
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AC AD
B, C, D & E decks
B & D decks
NA
G deck
E deck
LIDO DECK
Large Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA OB
A deck C & D decks
C & G decks
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower (Obstructed View)
B deck
Deluxe Stateroom with Balcony and Bath/Shower
DA DB DC DD DE DF DG
KB KC
A & B decks
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BD BE
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
A & C decks G deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
A & B decks C & D decks A & B decks
OC OD OE
A & B decks A & B decks C, D & E decks
A DECK
C & D decks E deck
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed. ** Stateroom has two additional beds – one in the form of a single sofa bed and one in the form of an upper pullman berth. • Staterooms with inter-connecting doors.
ARCADIA STATEROOM NOTES Deluxe Stateroom: Please note that staterooms E1 – E42 have a steel fronted balcony.
B DECK
Shower only Staterooms: Please note that staterooms C178, C180, C182, C185, C189, C191, D173 – D179, E1 – E8, E172, E176, E178, E179, E181, E183 and G1 – G10 have a shower only. NA Staterooms: Please note that safety equipment blocks the view of all these staterooms. Adapted Staterooms: Suites/Mini-Suites have a standard bath without a whirlpool, and a separate shower. All other staterooms have a shower only. The following staterooms C194, C203, C1, C2, E95, E96, G11, G12, G74, G81 and G82 are suitable for un-confined wheelchair access, however, please be aware that opening the door from within the stateroom will require assistance from an able-bodied companion. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom.
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C DECK
The balconies in staterooms B1 and B2 benefit from complete shade
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ARCADIA DECK PLANS
Arcadia – 83,700 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2005 Normal operating capacity: 2,016 passengers and 880 crew (maximum operating capacity: 2,120 passengers)
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AC AD
B, C, D & E decks
B & D decks
NA
G deck
E deck
Large Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA OB
A deck C & D decks
C & G decks
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower (Obstructed View)
B deck
Deluxe Stateroom with Balcony and Bath/Shower
DA DB DC DD DE DF DG
KB KC
A & B decks
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BD BE
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
A & C decks G deck
Safety equipment blocks the view of NA grade stateroom
Inside Stateroom with Shower
A & B decks C & D decks A & B decks
OC OD OE
A & B decks A & B decks C, D & E decks
C & D decks E deck
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed. ** Stateroom has two additional beds – one in the form of a single sofa bed and one in the form of an upper pullman berth. • Staterooms with inter-connecting doors.
ARCADIA STATEROOM NOTES Deluxe Stateroom: Please note that staterooms E1 – E42 have a steel fronted balcony. Shower only Staterooms: Please note that staterooms C178, C180, C182, C185, C189, C191, D173 – D179, E1 – E8, E172, E176, E178, E179, E181, E183 and G1 – G10 have a shower only. NA Staterooms: Please note that safety equipment blocks the view of all these staterooms. Adapted Staterooms: Suites/Mini-Suites have a standard bath without a whirlpool, and a separate shower. All other staterooms have a shower only. The following staterooms C194, C203, C1, C2, E95, E96, G11, G12, G74, G81 and G82 are suitable for un-confined wheelchair access, however, please be aware that opening the door from within the stateroom will require assistance from an able-bodied companion. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom.
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AURORA STATEROOMS Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) or picture mirror* (inside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space
DELUXE BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with shower over bath and WC • Separate sitting area with two-seater sofa, chair and table • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs
*Some exceptions apply
PENTHOUSE SUITE • Spiral staircase to upper level bedroom with two single beds electronically adjustable and convertible to king-size, walk-in dressing area, trouser press and ironing board • Bathroom with whirlpool bath, shower and WC • Lounge area with L-shaped sofa, armchairs, dining table, chairs and bar area • DVD player and a full size stereo • Choice of baby grand piano with music discs or library with comfortable chair and audio facilities • Guest cloakroom • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to lounge level balcony with table and reclining chairs • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to upper level balcony with table and chairs
Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack • Atlas and binoculars Approx 246 square feet (including balcony)
Special touches • Butler service (inclusive but optional) • Mineral water on arrival • Decanter of house spirit • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket on arrival, flowers • Champagne and truffles on arrival • Daily canapés
BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower over bath and WC, or shower and WC • Sofa, chair and table • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs
Upper Level: Approx 362 square feet (including balcony) Lower Level: Approx 575 square feet (including balcony)
Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 211 square feet (including balcony)
INSIDE/OUTSIDE STATEROOM
SUITE • Separate bedroom with two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with whirlpool bath, shower and WC • Walk-in dressing area • Iron, ironing board and trouser press • Lounge area with sofa, armchairs, dining table and chairs • DVD player • Mini stereo • Floor to ceiling patio doors leading to balcony with steamer*, chairs and tables
MINI-SUITE • Separate bedroom area with two lower beds convertible to a king-size double • Bathroom with shower over whirlpool bath and WC • Iron, ironing board and trouser press • Lounge area with sofa, armchairs, table and chairs • DVD player • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs
Special touches • Butler service (inclusive but optional) • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Atlas and binoculars• Magazine and newspaper selection • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés
Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine selection • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés
Approx 520 square feet (including balcony)
Approx 382 square feet (including balcony)
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• Choice of inside or outside stateroom • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower over bath and WC, or shower and WC (outside stateroom). Bathroom with shower and WC (inside stateroom) • Sofa*, chair and table Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 150 square feet *Some exceptions apply. When three/four passengers share a stateroom with upper berths, for safety reasons the two lower berths cannot be pushed together.
The diagrams shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown. The diagrams are not to scale. 195
AURORA DECK PLANS SUN DECK
Aurora – 76,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2000 Normal operating capacity: 1,870 passengers and 850 crew (maximum operating capacity: 1,950 passengers)
Stateroom Types Penthouse Suite with two Balconies and Bath/Shower
AA
B deck
Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB
B & C decks
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BA BB
B deck B deck
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
DA DB
B deck B deck
Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
IA IB
A & C decks Lido, A & C decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JB
LIDO DECK
A & C decks
Larger Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
KA
C deck
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
KB KC
B, D & E decks A & D decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
A DECK
A, C, E & F decks A, C, D, E & F decks
Larger Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA
B deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OB OC OD
A, B, C & D decks Lido, A, B & C decks The balconies in staterooms A104 and A105 benefit from complete shade whilst those in A106 and A107 are partially shaded.
D, E & F decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in IA, IB & JB Balcony Staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in Suites, Mini-suites, Deluxe Balcony Stateroom and Outside Stateroom grades KA and OA, and in the form of upper pullman berths in all other staterooms. • Staterooms with inter-connecting doors.
B DECK
AURORA STATEROOM NOTES Suites: Please note that C104 and C107 have smaller balconies and reclining chairs rather than loungers. † Balcony Staterooms: Please note staterooms C124, C127, C308 and C325 have two twin beds which are permanently joined to form a fixed double bed. Outside/Inside Stateroom: Please note the following staterooms have a comfortable chair instead of a sofa: A100, A101, F102, F103, F108, F109, F110, F111, F112, F113, F114, F115, F116 and F117. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double.
C DECK
Outside Forward Facing Staterooms: A100, A101, B104, B105, B107, C100, C101, C103 have a view over the bow of the ship rather than a ‘sea view’ and we request that all curtains are kept closed throughout hours of darkness. Outside Aft Facing Staterooms: A314, A312, A310, A309, A311, A313, A318, A317, C306, C304, C302, C321 have a view over the aft decks rather than a ‘sea view’.
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WHY P&O CRUISES
AURORA DECK PLANS D DECK
Aurora – 76,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2000 Normal operating capacity: 1,870 passengers and 850 crew (maximum operating capacity: 1,950 passengers) Please note D102 and D103 are inside staterooms
Stateroom Types Penthouse Suite with two Balconies and Bath/Shower
AA
B deck
Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB
B & C decks
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BA BB
B deck B deck
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
DA DB
B deck B deck
Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
IA IB
A & C decks Lido, A & C decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JB
PROM DECK
A & C decks
Larger Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
KA
C deck
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
KB KC
B, D & E decks A & D decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
E DECK
A, C, E & F decks A, C, D, E & F decks
Larger Inside Stateroom with Shower
OA
B deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OB OC OD
A, B, C & D decks Lido, A, B & C decks D, E & F decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in IA, IB & JB Balcony Staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in Suites, Mini-suites, Deluxe Balcony Stateroom and Outside Stateroom grades KA and OA, and in the form of upper pullman berths in all other staterooms. • Staterooms with inter-connecting doors.
F DECK
AURORA STATEROOM NOTES Suites: Please note that C104 and C107 have smaller balconies and reclining chairs rather than loungers. † Balcony Staterooms: Please note staterooms C124, C127, C308 and C325 have two twin beds which are permanently joined to form a fixed double bed. Outside/Inside Stateroom: Please note the following staterooms have a comfortable chair instead of a sofa: A100, A101, F102, F103, F108, F109, F110, F111, F112, F113, F114, F115, F116 and F117. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double.
G DECK
Outside Forward Facing Staterooms: A100, A101, B104, B105, B107, C100, C101, C103 have a view over the bow of the ship rather than a ‘sea view’ and we request that all curtains are kept closed throughout hours of darkness. Outside Aft Facing Staterooms: A314, A312, A310, A309, A311, A313, A318, A317, C306, C304, C302, C321 have a view over the aft decks rather than a ‘sea view’.
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ORIANA STATEROOMS Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) or picture mirror* (inside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space *Some exceptions apply
DELUXE BALCONY STATEROOM
SUITE • Separate bedroom with two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with whirlpool bath, shower and WC • Guest bathroom with WC • Walk-in dressing area • Iron and ironing board and trouser press • Lounge area with sofa, armchairs and table • DVD player • Mini stereo • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table, chairs and two recliners
• Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with bath, shower and WC • Lounge area with sofa, chair and table • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs (Also available as Deluxe Outside Staterooms at EA grades with a picture window rather than a balcony.) Special touches Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack• Atlas and binoculars (with the exception of EA grades) Approx 250 square feet (including balcony) Approx 220 square feet (excluding balcony)
Special touches Butler service (inclusive but optional) • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars• Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolate on arrival • Daily canapés Approx 497 square feet (including balcony)
MINI-SUITE • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with whirlpool bath, shower and WC • Iron and ironing board and trouser press • Lounge area with sofa, armchairs and table • DVD player • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs Special touches Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection upon arrival • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolate on arrival • Daily canapés Approx 368 square feet (including balcony)
INSIDE/OUTSIDE STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with bath, shower and WC, or shower and WC • Corner sofa, chair and table (Please note all LC grade staterooms on E and F deck have portholes) Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 150 square feet
The diagrams shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown. The diagrams are not to scale.
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ORIANA DECK PLANS SUN DECK
Oriana – 69,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 1995 Normal operating capacity: 1,828 passengers and 800 crew (maximum operating capacity: 1,928 passengers) Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB
B deck
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BA
B deck
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
DA DB
B deck B deck
Deluxe Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
EA
C deck
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
KB KC
LIDO DECK Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
C, D, E & F decks B, C, D, E & F decks
Inside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
NA
A deck
NB
A deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OB OC OD
B & C decks
A DECK
B, C, E & F decks D, E & F decks
A & C decks A & C decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in EA Deluxe Outside Staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in Suites, Mini-suites, Deluxe Balcony Stateroom, and in the form of upper pullman berths in all other staterooms. † Staterooms with additional beds not available for sale
ORIANA STATEROOM NOTES
B DECK
Outside/Inside Stateroom: E100 to E108, E103 to E111, F104 to F126 and F105 to F127 outside staterooms have a porthole. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double. Outside Aft Facing Staterooms: B248, B246, B245, B247, C334, C332, C330, C349, C351 and C353 have a view over the aft decks rather than a ‘sea view’.
Staterooms B102 and B103 benefit from partial shade
C DECK
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ORIANA DECK PLANS D DECK
Oriana – 69,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 1995 Normal operating capacity: 1,828 passengers and 800 crew (maximum operating capacity: 1,928 passengers) Oriana will become exclusively for adults on 30 Nov 2011. For more information please refer to our website.
Stateroom Types Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AB
B deck
Mini-Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
BA
B deck
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom with Bath/Shower
DA DB
B deck B deck
Deluxe Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
EA
C deck
Outside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
KB KC
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LB LC
PROM DECK
C, D, E & F decks B, C, D, E & F decks
Inside Stateroom with Bath/Shower
NA
A deck
NB
A deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OB OC OD
B & C decks
E DECK
B, C, E & F decks D, E & F decks
A & C decks A & C decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed in EA Deluxe Outside Staterooms. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of a double sofa bed in Suites, Mini-suites, Deluxe Balcony Stateroom, and in the form of upper pullman berths in all other staterooms. † Staterooms with additional beds not available for sale
ORIANA STATEROOM NOTES
Staterooms E100 to E108 on the port side and E103 to E111 on the starboard side have portholes rather than picture windows
F DECK
Outside/Inside Stateroom: E100 to E108, E103 to E111, F104 to F126 and F105 to F127 outside staterooms have a porthole. All uppers berths in twin staterooms are easily accessible by a ladder provided in the stateroom. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double. Outside Aft Facing Staterooms: B248, B246, B245, B247, C334, C332, C330, C349, C351 and C353 have a view over the aft decks rather than a ‘sea view’.
Staterooms F104 to F126 on the port side and F105 to F127 on the starboard side have portholes rather than picture windows
G DECK
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ADONIA STATEROOMS Standard in all accommodation: Daily steward service • TV, radio and telephone • Hairdryer, refrigerator and safe • Tea/coffee making facilities • Air conditioning • Picture window* (outside staterooms) • Vanity/writing desk and chair • Wardrobe and drawer space *Some exceptions apply
BALCONY STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and reclining chairs Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 214 square feet (including balcony)
PENTHOUSE SUITE Adonia has six Penthouse Suites – please ask for more details or visit www.pocruises.co.uk
SUITE • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed • Bathroom with shower over full-size bath and WC • Iron and ironing board and trouser press • Lounge area with sofa, table and chairs • DVD player • Mini stereo • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony with table and chairs, steamers and footstool Special touches Butler service (inclusive but optional) • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious premier pamper pack • Coffee machine • Bathrobe and slippers • Magazine and newspaper selection • Atlas and binoculars • Fruit basket, flowers, champagne and chocolates on arrival • Daily canapés
INSIDE/OUTSIDE STATEROOM • Two lower beds convertible to a king-size bed* • Bathroom with shower and WC* Special touches • Mineral water on arrival • Luxurious pamper pack Approx 165 square feet
*Some exceptions apply. When three/four passengers share a stateroom with upper berths, for safety reasons the two lower berths cannot be pushed together.
Approx 753 square feet (including balcony) The diagrams shown are representative of the different stateroom types, but please note that the layout, size, furniture, windows/porthole arrangement and interior decor may vary from that shown. The diagrams are not to scale.
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ADONIA DECK PLANS
SKY DECK Adonia – 30,200 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2001 Normal operating capacity: 710 passengers and 300 crew (maximum operating capacity: 1,150 passengers)
Stateroom Types Penthouse Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AA
A, B & C decks
Suite with Balcony and Bath
AB
B & C decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB JC JD JE JF
A & B decks A, B & C decks A, B & C decks A & B decks C deck A, B & C decks
Outside Stateroom with Shower
LA LB LC
B & C decks D deck D deck
SUN DECK
Outside Stateroom with Shower (Obstructed View)
NA
C deck
Inside Stateroom with Shower
OB OC OD
A deck B deck B, C & D decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed with the exception of B055 which has an upper pullman berth. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of upper pullman berths. • Stateroom with interconnecting doors.
LIDO DECK
▲ Stateroom has an armchair instead of a sofa.
ADONIA STATEROOM NOTES Please note that the following staterooms have a desk chair instead of a sofa: C032, C034, C036, C037, C038, C039, C040, C041, C042, C043, C044, C045, C047 and D016. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double. *Please note LA Grades Outside staterooms have a porthole *JF Balcony Stateroom – please note that the ships equipment partially obstructs the view of these staterooms.
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A DECK
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ADONIA DECK PLANS
B DECK
Adonia – 32,000 tons, Bermudan Registry, Entered service in 2001 Normal operating capacity: 710 passengers and 300 crew (maximum operating capacity: 1,150 passengers)
Stateroom Types Penthouse Suite with Balcony and Bath/Shower
AA
A, B & C decks
Suite with Balcony and Bath
AB
B & C decks
Balcony Stateroom with Shower
JA JB JC JD JE JF
A & B decks A, B & C decks
C DECK
A, B & C decks A & B decks C deck A, B & C decks
* Stateroom has one additional bed in the form of a single sofa bed with the exception of B055 which has an upper pullman berth. ** Stateroom has two additional beds in the form of upper pullman berths. • Stateroom with interconnecting doors. ▲ Stateroom has an armchair instead of a sofa.
PROM DECK
ADONIA STATEROOM NOTES Please note that the following staterooms have a desk chair instead of a sofa: C032, C034, C036, C037, C038, C039, C040, C041, C042, C043, C044, C045, C047 and D016. Please note when the upper berths are in use, lower beds cannot be converted to a double. *Please note LA Grades Outside staterooms have a porthole *JF Balcony Stateroom – please note that the ships equipment partially obstructs the view of these staterooms.
D DECK
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER Acapulco Mexico
Alexandria Egypt
Alta Norway
Long a magnet for the rich and famous, Mexico’s top beach resort, Acapulco, is situated on a spectacular sweeping bay lined by five star hotels. This jetsetter’s city makes the perfect destination with a huge range of attractions to suit all tastes and interests. There are lively bars and cafés and chic boutiques, but so much of Acapulco life centres around the ocean. If you head ashore independently, there’s a huge variety of watersports from jet-skiing to snorkelling, scuba-diving and deep-sea fishing. But top of the list has to be the world famous cliff divers at La Quebrada, who plunge 40 metres from perilous cliffs into the swirling waters below. You can marvel at the timing, grace and sheer bravery of the divers as they perform every lunchtime and evening.
Dating from the 9th century BC, Alexandria was one of the greatest cities of the ancient world and home to one of the Seven Wonders – the Lighthouse. Modern Alexandria also has its treasures. The Corniche, a broad waterfront promenade near the docks, is lined with spectacular 19th century grand hotels and overlooks the sandy beaches. For a treat, why not opt for lunch at the elegant Salamlek Hotel once a royal Egyptian villa? Alexandria’s main souk, just one block inland from the seafront, is worth exploring with its colourful jewellery, intricate brassware, carpet shops and pungent spice stalls.
Situated in the Land of the Midnight Sun, Alta is home to the world’s first Northern Light observatory, earning Alta the title, ‘The Town of the Northern Lights’, so you could be no better placed to see this spectacular natural phenomenon if luck is on your side. Other sights of interest include the rock carvings at Hjemmeluft – the first of which was discovered just 60 years ago. The site is now UNESCO protected due to its significance and size and comprises carvings and paintings made between 4200BC to 200AD.
Ajaccio Corsica Napoleon was born here and his name is everywhere. The main shopping street is called Cours Napoleon and the wide tree-lined boulevards, parks and large squares in this newer part of town feature many statues of the great man, notably in the main square (ironically called General de Gaulle). The Old Town boasts Napoleon’s House and the cathedral where he was baptised. The main marketplace is right by the port and here you’ll find lots of local craft goods and endless Napoleonic souvenirs.
Alghero Sardinia Easily the prettiest and most interesting of the ports along Sardinia’s northern coast, Alghero looks as much Spanish – or rather Catalan – as it does Italian. This all dates back to when the town was taken over by travelling merchants from Barcelona. Local food and language still has strong Catalan elements and the historic Catalan Church of San Francesco, with its ceramic dome and gothic belltower, is one of Alghero’s major historic sites. Others include the Magdelena fort overlooking the network of narrow cobbled streets at the heart of the atmospheric Old Town near the cruise port. Why not head for the Capo Caccio headland, which affords superb views of the rugged coastline?
Akureyri Iceland Akureyi is a charming Icelandic town with a stunning location on the country’s longest fjord – Eyjafjordur. There are several interesting museums and churches but the most amazing feature of Akureyri is its botanical garden. The fact that this glorious display of flowers and plants thrives is a tribute to the local microclimate which is remarkably mild for somewhere so close to the Arctic Circle. There are a range of tours to appeal to nature-lovers, from whale watching to the spectacular ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ at Godafoss. Along the way, there are also age-old glaciers, beautiful lakes, bubbling sulphur mud-pits, hidden caves and coves, dormant volcanoes and natural lava sculptures.
Alicante Spain Built around a natural harbour, the main city on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante, is also a top beach resort in its own right. It has a sophisticated Mediterranean feel with its restored Old Town adding to its charm. Dubbed the ‘City of Light’ when founded by the Romans, Alicante is a relaxing place to walk around. Down from the impressive Castillo de Santa Barbara fortress, which offers impressive views across the city, most activity centres in the streets around the Ayuntamiento, a plaza area buzzing with restaurants and tapas bars. Works by artists including Dali, Miro and Picasso are on show at the Museo de Arte Siglo and there is also an archaeological museum.
Alesund Norway Completely rebuilt after being destroyed by fire in 1904, Alesund looks quite different to other Norwegian towns along the country’s west coast. Stretching across three islands at the mouth of magnificent Geirangerfjord, Alesund’s architecture is now an eclectic mixture of mock-gothic and neo-classical with more than a dash of Art Nouveau. You can trace the development of the town’s trend setting style at the Art Nouveau Centre, one of several fascinating museums in the town. The Atlantic Sea-Park is also worth a visit as it’s one of the largest aquariums in northern Europe.
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Almeria Spain A pretty and largely modern city, Almeria is the capital of the Spanish province bearing the same name. Occupied first by the Phoenicans, then the Carthagians, the Romans and the Moors, it has an interesting and diverse history. This area offers a selection of fine sandy beaches and coves. Standing atop the mountain is the Alcazaba or Arab Fortress. Built in the first half of the 10th century, it commands some magnificent views. The reinforced cathedral, with its unique blend of Renaissance and gothic architecture, was also once a fortress. Stroll through St. Nicholas Salmeron Park then head up towards the caves in the old gypsy quarter. Alternatively, shop in the charming old town for fine leather and sample local wines and local specialities.
Andalsnes Norway Andalsnes nestles where the towering Romsdal Alps meet the northern end of sparkling Romsdalfjord. A small, friendly town, Andalsnes is close to the famous Trollstigen road which leads through stunning scenery and across the stone bridge over the cascading Stigfossen waterfall to the Trollvegen (Troll Wall) which – at nearly 1,830 metres – is the highest vertical drop in northern Europe. Another way to see the Troll Wall and even more dramatic Alpine scenery, is to take the Rauma Railway steam train. Antalya Turkey Situated where the towering Taurus Mountains meet the sea, Antalya was first established in the second century BC and reached its peak during the Crusades. Today this fine port, still surrounded by ancient walls, boasts all the trappings of a modern resort, including a picturesque harbour and marina. Within the city itself you can see its many mosques and monuments including its soaring brick minaret, which has become a symbol of the city. Farther afield, older treasures beckon and you can pay a visit to the ancient ampitheatre at Aspendos, the magnificent Roman theatre at Perge or the Apollo Temple at Side.
Ashdod Israel You can choose to stay in this vibrant city to visit the Givat Yonah – an archaeological mound that affords visitors wonderful views over the city; the Corinne Maman Museum, with its unique interior which echoes the city’s ancient history; Ad Halom park, which is the furthest point north that the Egyptian army reached during the War of Independence (a war memorial and lookout tell the story) and the beautiful beaches. But while Ashdod is historic in its own right, it is your gateway to the unparalleled history and sights of Jerusalem, Bethlehem and the mountain fortress of Masada. Athens (from Piraeus) Greece From Piraeus, the Acropolis - ‘High City’ – has always been a favourite attraction. With its 2,500-year-old Parthenon, temple to Poseidon and Athena, Odeon of Herodus Atticus and Theatre of Dionysus, it quite literally stands out as an oasis of calm in the frenetic Greek capital. As part of the major revamp the city had for the 2004 Olympics, 400 modern buildings were cleared from the ancient meeting place next to the Acropolis, the Agora, which was then restored and linked by walkways to the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Arch, the Academy of Plato and the Monastery of Daphne. Below the Acropolis is the Plaka, the oldest neighbourhood in Athens, and a lively place to visit.
With over 365 beaches, there is a slice of white sand heaven for every day of the year on the idyllic Caribbean holiday island of Antigua, which played host to Admiral Horatio Nelson’s fleet in the late 1700’s. Nelson’s Dockyard now bustles with crew and passengers from yachts and ships sailing these waters for pleasure rather than for King and Country. The main port, St. John’s, is also the capital and a vibrant hub for shopping as well as being within easy range of some of the island’s best beaches.
Aruba Talcum-soft beaches, world class shopping, glitzy casinos, stunning sea views and tracts of desert landscape scattered with giant boulders and exotic cacti are all yours to enjoy when you visit popular Aruba, jewel of the ‘deep’ Caribbean. And you will find most of these attractions without straying far from the capital, Oranjestad, a waterfront city endowed with a cosmopolitan population.
Belfast Northern Ireland Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland, enjoys a wonderful setting of high hills, sea lough and river valley. Founded in the 17th century, the city prospered becoming one of the world’s leading industrial names, and was home to Harland and Wolff – the shipbuilders who built the ill-fated Titanic. Amidst its beautiful Victorian buildings you can shop in stylish boutiques, sip a Guinness in one of its charming old pubs or take a scenic stroll in Barnett Demesne park. The centrepiece is the City Hall, completed in 1906, with its domed roof and grand Italian marble staircase.
Bodo Norway This is an important Norwegian trading centre at the ‘top of the world’ en route to the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’. In this part of the world, the vistas are more extensive, the scenery more splendid and the nights brighter than you would have ever thought possible. Bodrum Turkey The history of Bodrum – better known to historians as Halicarnassus – has been home to Dorian Greeks, Persians (and their puppet kings) and to the Ottoman Turks. It was captured by Alexander the Great, by the Romans and by the Knights of St. John yet, even with so much history at its disposal, it’s more resort than historic site. See the remains of the Mausoleum of Mausolus (his wife’s extravagance gave us the word) or the Castle of St Peter, but remember to sample traditional Turkish food and hospitality.
Bonaire Netherlands Antilles Bonaire has many good reasons to protect its extraordinary environment. Its Marine Park, which covers the coral reefs along the island’s west coast, has a vast number and variety of fish, and snorkelling and diving amongst these colourful residents is a sheer delight. A more conventional national park spreads across the whole northern part of the island. Originally plantations, this freshwater swampland is now home to pelican, parrots and geese.
Bar Harbor United States of America One of the most popular New England ports, Bar Harbor has something of the look of Old England about it with visions of Cornwall evoked by the rugged coastal walk below its craggy, granite cliffs. It’s also in the middle of the Acadia National Park – an intoxicating mix of lakes, forests and mountains. Look out for towering Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole where the ocean thunders against the cliffs.
Barbados Antigua
Bari Italy Located on the Adriatic Sea, the ancient Italian capital of Bari has often been neglected by visitors, but this atmospheric and architecturally adorned city is a little gem that embraces a rich cosmopolitan past. Many civilisations have left their mark and many cultures are still represented, from Byzantine and Arabic to Gothic and Greek. Running through the town is a wide boulevard, home to the Piccinni Theatre and the renowned red-brick government palace. To the north, pastel houses litter the labyrinth of lanes, arched alleyways and ancient churches that make up the old town. From here explore the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, the 12th century Cathedral of San Sabino and the Swabian castle of Castello Svevo.
Watching the Atlantic surf crash down on the rugged east coast of this richly diverse island and, for a moment, you may feel you could be on the Cornish coast. Over on the sheltered west coast, the glorious beaches are pure Caribbean. And there are more beaches and a lot more bars, cafés, restaurants and clubs creating a vibrant 24/7 lifestyle on the south coast, too. In the capital, Bridgetown, there are intriguing signs of its British colonial past while, across the island, you are really spoilt for choice. You can enjoy every watersport under the sun; stunning nature walks and bike rides.
Barcelona Spain The Catalonian capital of Barcelona provides a vivid mix of ancient and modern, but is probably best known for the bizarre architecture of Antonio Gaudi, in particular the iconic Sagrada Familia, Europe’s most extraordinary – and still unfinished – cathedral. Barcelona’s Old Port area is a thriving area of cafés and restaurants. From there, it is an easy stroll up the famous Las Ramblas to the Old Town. This street is thronged with entertainers, stalls and bars and is most lively at night and weekends. Not to be missed is the La Boqueria food market with its extraordinary displays of fish, meat, fruit and vegetables.
Bergen Norway A former ‘European City of Culture’, Bergen sits amongst the magnificent mountains strung along Norway’s western coastline and is a gateway to fjordland. This 13th century Hanseatic – and now World Heritage - city was built on an original Viking settlement and is full of historic sites, the best known of which is Bryggen – a collection of 11th century wooden buildings along the harbour front. To enjoy the best views of this picturesque city, take the funicular railway to the top of Mount Fløyen, which overlooks both Bergen and the surrounding region. Bergen is also the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg.
Bilbao Spain The Basque city of Bilbao in northern Spain has become one of the hottest destinations in Europe following the opening of the imaginatively-designed Guggenheim modern art gallery. Until then, Bilbao was very much a working city, but it has always boasted a lively old town dating from the 14th century. Through the winding alleyways of the Casco Viejo you can stop to sample tapas at the many exceptional local bars and restaurants. Other sights include the arcaded Plaza Nueva and the gothic Cathedral de Santiago. One of Spain’s most important art collections is housed across the city at the Museo de Bellas Artes. This features works dating from the 12th century through to contemporary art by Cézanne, Gauguin and Francis Bacon.
Boston United States of America Historic Boston is a key port for ‘fall foliage’ trips around New England and the Canadian Maritime Provinces, but anytime is a good time to enjoy this friendly, walkable city – dubbed ‘The Cradle of Liberty’ for its part in the American War of Independence. You can learn more about its fascinating history by following the Freedom Trail or visiting Cambridge, on the opposite side of the Charles River, home of the 400-year-old Harvard University. Bourgas Bulgaria The second largest city on the Black Sea coast, Bourgas is situated between the sea and two lagoonlakes. Offering a real snapshot of the culture and character of the Black Sea coast, its District Museum of History offers an insight into everyday life past and present. Nature lovers will love its Sea Garden Park – the perfect way to appreciate the city’s wonderful setting whilst surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and artistic sculptures. From here, it’s just a short, scenic descent to the beach. Brest France Set in one of Europe’s finest natural harbours, France’s main naval port Brest is steeped in maritime history and is also a gateway into the ruggedly scenic and proudly Celtic province of Brittany. The maritime museum is inside the city’s Motte Tanguy Castle and Tower, which perches on a headland overlooking the beautiful harbour. In keeping with its nautical traditions, Brest is also home to Oceanopolis, a massive new attraction dedicated to the sea and its many forms of marine life. In the city centre you’ll find streets with evocative names like La Fayette and Bougainville and an array of shops, bars, restaurants, theatres and museums.
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER Bruges (from Zeebrugge) Belgium A medieval jewel on the North Sea, the charming city of Bruges is just 10 miles away from Zeebrugge. Sometimes called the ‘Venice of the North’ because of the picturesque criss-crossing canals, it has all the facilities of a modern city, but these are all found behind the centuries-old facades and weathered gables of the historic buildings at the city’s heart. Bruges is rightly famous for its exquisite lacework, tasty chocolates and huge range of local beers. From Zeebrugge, you can also visit the historic city of Ghent, the capital Brussels, and historic battlefield sites such as Ypres. Cadiz Spain You sail right into the heart of historic Cadiz. On leaving your ship you’ll find the main square and shopping area immediately across the busy Avenida del Puerto. Behind is the 18th century cathedral (El Nueva) and the view from the top is worth the long walk up the winding corridor. The narrow streets of the old town below are lined by tall Moorishstyle houses with flower-decked balconies mixed in amongst some small shops and tapas bars. Cadiz dates back to the 12th century BC so is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western world. Cagliari Sardinia Visually stunning, Sardinia’s capital, Cagliari, can trace its history back thousands of years to Roman times and features many museums, historic churches and ancient artefacts. Most of the city’s impressive attractions can be seen just by walking through the walled Castello area with its winding alleyways and open piazzas. Don’t miss the 2nd century Roman amphitheatre and the colourful botanical gardens featuring 500 different plants.
Cairo/Giza (from Port Said) Egypt Port Said, at the head of the Suez Canal, is the key gateway for Cairo. Egypt’s largest city is a maelstrom of traffic, glorious mosques, palaces and bazaars, where shopping is excellent – as long as you perfect the art of haggling. Cairo also offers a fascinating selection of museums – the most famous being the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, which holds more than 100,000 relics and the Archaeological Museum, where you may be able to gaze upon the face of Tutankhamun, the boy king. Just outside the city is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world still remaining – the Pyramids at Giza. Their sheer size, scale and age will amaze you, as will the enigmatic glance of their nearby guardian – the 20 metre high Sphinx.
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Cannes France The old town (Le Suquet) boasts a medieval church, castle and narrow streets full of interesting shops and cafés, but everyone really wants to stroll first along Promenade de la Croisette. Everything that has made Cannes a haunt of the rich and famous is here: deluxe hotels, smart casinos, stylish boutiques, trendy art galleries and marinas packed with lavishly out-fitted mega-yachts. For the ultimate in people watching, visit the Observatory of Super-Cannes which has lifts up to viewing platforms overlooking La Croisette and the rest of the resort. Nice, Monte Carlo, Cap d’Antibes and the medieval villages of Eze and St. Paul-de-Vence are also nearby.
Catania Sicily Located between Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, this ancient city has suffered the violence of nature on several occasions, while its people have strived to rebuild it. An earthquake in 1693 resulted in the Baroque palaces evident today. Originally founded by Greek colonists, ‘Katane’ was later conquered by the Romans and its Roman Theatre is one of the best examples of Roman architecture to be found. Head to Catania’s principal square, at the end of busy Via Etnea and you’ll find most of its main points of interest nearby, including its much photographed lava statue and the Duomo. Cephalonia Greece
Cartagena Spain An ancient city with a name to match as it was founded more than 2,200 years ago by Carthaginian leader Hasdrubal. Step ashore here and you are immediately aware of its rich history – in the centre of the old town, you will find the original Carthaginian castle and sections of the old city walls. But Cartagena is also a city which moves with the times hence the new harbour front development which includes the unique National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. As part of Murcia province, Cartagena is also an excellent base for touring along the Costa Blanca to Alicante.
Casablanca Morocco Part of Casablanca lies within the walls of the Ancienne Medina – built in the 19th century – which contains narrow lanes crammed with piled-high stalls as well as the last remains of the city’s 18th century fortifications. Rising above the ocean on a rocky outcrop is the Hassan ll Mosque – the landmark of the city. Designed by French architect Michel Pinseau and built to commemorate the former King’s birthday, it is the world’s largest mosque, boasting a soaring 700ft high minaret. A short drive up the coast you can visit Rabat, Morocco’s capital and home of the country’s royal family.
Catalina Island Dominican Republic Located a 20 minute boat ride away from La Romana harbour on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic, Catalina is a jewel of an island famed for its lovely beaches, laid-back atmosphere and sensational diving and snorkelling. This is definitely where to head to the beach armed with mask and snorkel. Its shallow waters are home to a dazzling array of brightly coloured sea life, including purple sea fans and orange, brown and grey garden fish. Catalina’s warm clear waters are also a good place for spotting larger fish, including grouper.
The unspoilt, rugged but timeless, Greek island of Cephalonia is hard to beat. Just over 30,000 live on the island, mainly in the coastal towns and resorts with the rest living much as they have done for centuries in the mountain villages. Pause for a drink in one of the pretty harbour front tavernas in the cruise port town of Sami after exploring. There are sandy beaches near the west coast town of Argostoli along with a couple of interesting caves. At Melissani, near Agia Egfymia, the sun shining down through a hole in the cave’s roof creates a spectacular lighting effect on the water.
Charleston United States of America Nestled on South Carolina’s Atlantic coast, the colonial port of Charleston is the oldest city in the state and claims to be one of America’s loveliest. Amongst piazzas and plantations, mansions that once belonged to wealthy colonial merchants masquerade as museums, with National Russell and Heywood-Washington House being two of the finest. Beauty exudes from the magnificent gardens of Middleton Place and White Point, and after a carriage ride around the city, you can opt to pay a visit to Mount Pleasant or the area west of Ashley River. College Fjord Alaska An afternoon cruise in Prince William Sound’s spectacular College Fjord offers the possibility of witnessing newly born icebergs plunge into the sea. This narrow 20-mile long fjord in the northern region of the Sound was created by glacial activity over millions of years. Today it boasts a collection of 16 glaciers and, from the right angle it’s possible to see eight of the College Fjord glaciers at once. Constanza Romania Romania’s largest sea port, Constanza can trace its history back some 2,500 years. Named ‘Tomis’ originally, according to legend it was here that Jason landed with the Argonauts after finding the Golden Fleece. Today it blends old and new influences to great effect, combining archaeological treasures, ancient ruins and the historical monuments of its Old Town with shops, a grand casino, open-air restaurants and nightclubs. Sights include its cathedral, the Roman Mosaics and the Genoese Lighthouse dating back to 1860.
Copenhagen Denmark ‘Wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen’ was the adopted home of Hans Christian Andersen. And, true to the spirit of its most famous resident, this popular Danish city has a fairytale magic all of its own. Discover it in the delightful Tivoli Gardens, where you can soar above the city in a hot air balloon. Or in the shops and cafés of Stroget, Europe’s longest pedestrianised shopping street. If you simply want to take it easy, you can’t beat a stroll along the pretty Nyhavn Canal, browsing the market stalls and looking at the fine old sailing ships moored near its banks. You will find more history at the magnificent Christiansborg Palace, the National Museum – home to fascinating Viking relics – and at Kronberg Castle – the former Elsinore of Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’. Corfu Greece That classic holiday combination of endless sun, sea and sand make Corfu one of the most popular, as well as one of the largest Greek islands, but it offers a lot more besides. Head inland, through heavily-scented pine woods, and you will find tiny villages like Sokraki where only Greek is spoken and time appears to have stood still. And the capital, Corfu Town, is Greece’s largest ‘living’ medieval town, home to cobblestone streets and alleyways, historic buildings, statues and fountains. The stand-out is the Venetian-built Old Fortress, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. For the best beaches, head for Paleokastritsa, Glyfada or, if it is history you want, head for Gastouri to visit the lavish 19th century Achilleion Palace.
Cozumel Mexico The world’s most popular cruise port, Cozumel, is just a small (12 miles long) island off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula but it has a vibrant, pulsating Latin heart. Probably the best beach is at the Chankanab National Park which also boasts a beautiful botanical garden with 800 plant species. Best of all, though, is that it has a pool linked by an underground tunnel to the sea where you can swim with the dolphins who come and go freely there. Curacao Netherlands Antilles The largest island in the Dutch Antilles, Curacao is home to more than 50 nationalities so has a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Its lovely capital, Willemstad, is full of 17th, 18th and 19th century Dutch and Spanish Colonial architecture. The two sides of the city are divided by Santa Anna Bay, a narrow channel flanked by pastel-tinted, gabled houses and spanned by the spectacular swing-aside Queen Emma pontoon bridge. Dominica Dominica is an island of breathtaking natural beauty with crater lakes and waterfalls, forests and gorges, many with evocative and unusual names like Emerald Pool and Trafalgar Falls. Offshore, there are coral reefs teeming with fish of all colours, shapes and sizes to amaze swimmers, snorkellers and scuba divers. You are also welcome to visit the last surviving community of Carib Indians, the original inhabitants of the entire Caribbean, who still follow the old ways – fishing, carving and basket-making.
Cork (from Cobh) Ireland Pronounced ‘Cove’, Cobh is the port for Ireland’s second biggest city, Cork, and boasts one of Europe’s largest natural harbours. Poignantly, it was also the final departure point of the ill-fated Titanic. The bustling city centre is home to fascinating shops and markets, while traditional Irish music can be heard in many of the historic pubs and bars which populate the city centre. Six miles inland from the city lies the famous Blarney Stone. Positioned more than 24 metres up in the battlements of Blarney Castle, legend has it that kissing the limestone block provides the one puckering up with the gift of what is euphemistically called ‘persuasive’ speech.
Douglas Great Britain
Costa Maya Mexico
Dublin Ireland The Irish capital, Dublin, has undergone an incredible transformation in the last decade with many modern buildings springing up to add to its historical and cultural appeal. A visit to the Guinness Storehouse and Brewery provides an insight into the history of Ireland’s favourite tipple. Grafton Street is a shopper’s paradise. The library at Trinity College is home to the 8th century Book of Kells, with the National Museum housing exhibits dating back from the Irish Bronze and Iron ages. The city’s literary heritage is celebrated at the adjoining National Library with works of famous Irish writers such as Beckett, Joyce, Swift and Yeats collected together.
This Mexican port opened in 2000 and is close to the border with Belize. Through the Mayan temple-style entrance into the visitor centre, you will find shops and a small open-air theatre where folkloric shows are staged. The area around Costa Maya offers a fascinating mixture of jungle, wetland, coastal dunes, and coral reefs with the bonus of a variety of Mayan sites. The closest is Chacchoben, a lost Mayan city that has only been partially uncovered from the jungle and whose most important discovery to date is a fascinating single pyramid.
Set in the Irish Sea between Britain and Ireland, the Isle of Man is most famous for its annual TT motorcycle road race, but for most of the year, is a tranquil place with a diverse culture inherited from its Viking and Celtic roots. Douglas became the capital of this picturesque self-governing kingdom in 1863 and you may want to visit the outstanding Manx Museum, which you will find in the town’s centre. Or why not spend your time soaking up the island’s rich history at the settlements and castles? You can also walk the glens and mountains but for the best views of the island’s natural beauty, ride the steam trains.
Dubrovnik Croatia Sailing into the beautiful 12th century Croatian walled city of Dubrovnik is one of life’s great experiences. The spectacular Old Town, with its pretty harbour, towering ramparts, creamy stone pavements and red-roofed buildings, is crammed with architectural wonders like Onofrio’s Fountain, the 14th century Franciscan Monastery and the world’s oldest pharmacy (est. 1391). Visit too, the magnificently gothic Sponza Palace and the 18th century baroque Church of St. Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint. You will find pretty restaurants and cafés tucked away on Dubrovnik’s narrow side streets – worth exploring as they also contain offbeat shops and art galleries.
Edinburgh (from Queensferry) Great Britain This handsome capital has an eclectic mix of medieval and Georgian architecture. One of the city’s most obvious attractions is Edinburgh Castle, first founded in the 7th century. It’s still the headquarters for several of the British Army’s Scottish regiments and, at noon each day, the sound of a cannon fired from the castle’s battlements reverberates throughout the city. The castle sits at one end of the Royal Mile with the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. Founded as a monastery in 1128, Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II.
Eidfjord Norway The Norwegian port of Eidfjord is just a small sleepy village but it stands on the edge of huge scale attractions including the largest high mountain plateau (Hardangervidda) and Norway’s largest national park. But Eidfjord has attractions of its own including a 14th century church and Viking burial place. A couple of miles away is the Hardangervidda Nature Centre, which is an unusual adventure centre with all kinds of interactive ways of illustrating the rich natural, cultural and historical heritage of the region. Elba Italy Steeped in history running way back to the Romans and Etruscans – Greek mythology even has it that Jason’s Argonauts came this way too – Elba has prospered ever since the medieval Medicis arrived. You will see an imposing Medici fort, as well as a Martello Tower and second fort (Stella), looking down on you as you cruise into the harbour. Touring around Elba, you can enjoy beautiful scenery and discover hidden coves and beaches. You can even take a cable car to enjoy the panoramic views from the top of 975 metre Mount Capanne. A visit to Napoleon’s ornate summerhouse and gardens at San Martino should also be on your wish list.
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER Ephesus (from Kusadasi) Turkey Kusadasi is a bustling, successful port that provides excellent access to the extraordinary remains at Ephesus. Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeum, the Celsus Library, the temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre. Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St. John the Evangelist, St. John’s Basilica was once topped with eleven domes and rivalled Istanbul’s St. Sophia Basilica in scale.
Foynes Ireland Foynes (Faing in Irish) is a small town in County Limerick and home to Irish Coffee, which warmed flying boat passengers when Foynes became the stepping stone between Europe and North America in the pioneering days of transatlantic aviation (when the famous Pan Am Clippers used Foynes as their gateway to Europe and back to the US). The Foynes Flying Boat Museum, housed in the original terminal building, recalls that nostalgic era. Further afield you’ll find the ruins of a medieval church look out from the hill of Knockpatrick, south of Foynes, and 5 miles to the southeast is the 13th century Old Abbey convent of the Augustinian Canonesses.
Flamm Norway
Geiranger Norway
Sailing through Norway’s beautiful Sognefjord, the world’s longest and deepest fjord, is one of the most memorable experiences. Overlooked by snow-capped peaks and surrounded by cascading waterfalls, this is a sensational approach to the tiny village of Flamm. One of the most unique attractions of this port is the extraordinary Flamm Railway. A masterpiece of engineering, this rises more than 865 metres above sea level in just 12 miles and the views are just as dramatic as the journey. There are a variety of other boat and road trips which promise more fantastic scenery along with visits to farms, mines, villages and isolated mountain lodges.
It is just nine miles long but the snaking Geirangerfjord is the most photographed of all Norway’s fjords. As you arrive at your anchorage off Geiranger, just marvel at the views as spectacular waterfalls cascade down from the steep rocky peaks. Geiranger welcomed its first cruise ship in 1869 and its appeal for visitors has hardly changed since then. It is still just a small village resort and the ideal base for walking, kayaking or river rafting tours into a surrounding area full of natural beauty and magnificent scenery. There are superb views from the Dalsnibba mountain plateau overlooking the fjord.
Gran Canaria Canary Islands Gran Canaria’s capital Las Palmas draws travellers keen to enjoy the year round temperate climate and to explore the atmospheric cobbled streets of its old quarter, Vegueta. You can also enjoy nearby Playa del Ingles, the liveliest and best-known beach in the Canaries, or the stunning desert scenery of Maspalomas. Tour further afield to explore peaceful old towns like Arucas – famed for its lush banana plantations – and Teror, with its fine collection of traditional houses. Other must-sees include lovely Palmitos Nature Park and Bandama crater, an extinct volcano set 580 metres above sea level which offers panoramic views over the island.
Gibraltar
Grand Cayman Cayman Islands
Flekkefjord Norway Flekkefjord is a quiet place with a pretty old town whose tiny centre is very picturesque with old timber houses lining the banks of a scenic channel. Known as ‘Hollenderbyen’ (Dutch Town), this area’s nickname gives testament to the town’s close links and strong trading history with Holland. The Flekkefjord Church, built in 1833, is an unusual log-built building with an octagonal shape – with the columns, steeple and baptismal font all following suit. The enlightening Flekkefjord Museum is housed in an interesting building from 1724, with 19th century interiors.
Florence (from Livorno) Italy Founded in the 16th century by the Grand Dukes of Tuscany – the Medici Family, Livorno remains a busy port and town. Its centre, which is walkable from the port, has some pretty bars, cafés and classy shops, but many of Livorno’s visitors head straight for Florence. This elegant city is compact enough to be walkable, and with the Arno River running through it, you should be able to keep your bearings fairly easily. Be certain to visit the Uffizi Gallery and cross the gold and silver merchants-lined Ponte Vecchio on your way round the many attractions of this startlingly beautiful Renaissance city.
Britons love visiting the ‘home from home’ Mediterranean port of Gibraltar – and not just because it has some excellent pubs and tax free shops. Gibraltar also offers wonderful views of Algeciras Bay and the Moroccan mountains from the Rock Restaurant, served by cable car from the Grand Parade. Birdwatchers can spot more than 230 species and there are clearly marked nature trails you can follow to discover the country’s flora and fauna. Alternatively spend a day at the beach – Catalan Bay is the prettiest, with colourful fishing boats and excellent seafood restaurants.
Glasgow (from Greenock) Scotland Originally a small salmon-fishing village, the 19th century Industrial Revolution turned Glasgow into a prominent city. In 1990 it was voted European City of Culture and today it’s known for its fabulous designer shops and unique culture. Art lovers will certainly enjoy this city. Visit the Glasgow School of Art, a building that’s reputed to be the greatest architectural work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Nearby, the 18th century Hunterian Art Gallery houses Scotland’s largest print collection, while the Burrell Collection contains a number of important artistic artefacts donated by Sir William Burrell, a wealthy shipowner and collector.
Gothenburg Sweden The approach to Gothenburg by sea is the perfect introduction to this large, bustling, but very friendly Swedish city as you sail through a beautiful archipelago of small islands and past sleepy old fishing villages along the mainland coast. Your first impression of the city will be that it is very green – there are parks and gardens galore including some extraordinarily colourful botanical ones full of rare orchids, roses and butterflies. In the city centre, there are all the latest designer stores and an array of cafés and restaurants in and around the main street: the Avenue. Look out, too, for the impressive concert hall and Maritime Museum.
One of the Caribbean’s most affluent and laid-back islands, Grand Cayman makes a perfect cruise call. You’ll arrive in the capital, Georgetown, which is easily explored on foot. Get a taste of the island’s history at Fort George, which dates from 1790 or plunge 30 metres beneath the waves to view Dayglo-coloured fish, spectacular underwater mountains and elaborate coral formations through the big windows of a submarine.
Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands Bursting with turn-of-the-century Caribbean charm, Grand Turk, the historic capital of the Turks and Caicos, is best known for its sugary white shores, calm blue waters and rustic colonial charm. At just six miles long, and just over a mile wide this small but perfectly formed island is easy to explore. On your walk round Cockburn, Grand Turk’s main town, take a turn down Duke and Font Street which are lined with 18th and 19th century landmarks, reflecting the Bermudian architecture of the salt era. Grenada Horseshoe-shaped and set in a volcanic crater, Grenada’s capital and port, St George’s, is flanked by two forts, with colourful French colonial style buildings ranged along the front. It is the perfect entrance to one of the Caribbean’s most scenic islands. Only 12 miles by 21, Grenada is awash with waterfalls, mountain valleys, rainforests, lakes and volcanic craters. The beaches are exceptional, especially Grand Anse – a two-mile stretch of pure white sand just around the bay from St. George’s.
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER Gythion Greece The picturesque town of Gythion is set against a magnificent mountain range backdrop. At the entrance to the city you’ll find the ruins of the Temple of Athena and the Gates of Castorides. Ensconced within the Archaeological Museum is a vast collection of finds from excavations and collections. If you like architecture though, you may want to visit the Lighthouse of Gythion, which was built in 1873. And if you’re a fan of succulent fresh seafood, be sure to visit the traditional local ouzeries. Haifa Israel Haifa, Israel’s third largest city and one of its prettiest, is flanked by the Mediterranean Sea and crowned by Mount Carmel. From here you can visit the Holy Land, the Sea of Galilee and the mountain fortress of Masada. Those who choose to explore Haifa itself can ascend to the top of the mountain by cable car, wander the Carmel Nature Reserve, known for its year-round greenery and intoxicating beauty, or visit Gan ha’Em (“Mother’s Park”) and walk along the Louis Promenade with its spectacular views. There are also lots of museums including the National Maritime Museum and the Haifa Museum of Art.
Halifax Canada Halifax is the principal city of Nova Scotia and has one of the most dramatically indented coastlines in the world. It is also one of the closest Canadian ports to Europe, hence its early prominence in transatlantic trade (Samuel Cunard was born here). For lovers of maritime history, a call at Halifax will be one of the most memorable of a cruise around the USA’s Eastern Seaboard and the Canadian Maritimes. One of the best ways to explore downtown Halifax is on foot. Stroll through the beautiful public gardens, enjoy the bustle of Spring Garden Road and see the buildings of the Historic Properties.
Hammerfest Norway Sleepily pretty Hammerfest is hidden in the heart of fjordland. Claiming to be the world’s most northern town, its latitude means that the sun never sets here between May 17 and July 28 and never rises between November 21 and January 23. At the heart of the town you can wander around the Market Square, home to the Hammerfest Town Hall and a museum, displaying relics from when it was the metropolis of the Arctic and the Whalers’ capital. Standing out above the low level skyline is the Lutherun church. Built in 1961 it is a striking example of modern architecture.
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Helsinki Finland Surrounded by the sea and its own archipelago, Helsinki, the Finnish capital, retains its nautical feel with many sailing events during the summer. The striking onion-shaped cupolas of the Uspenski Cathedral (modelled on the one in Odessa) are just one example of the Soviet influence on a country which achieved independence less than 100 years ago. Helsinki is a compact city – ‘a pocket-sized metropolis’, as it was once described – so it is easy to get around, especially in the historical centre. After months of dark, cold winter, it is hardly surprising that the Finns pull out all the stops to celebrate the genuine warmth of their summers with outdoor events all around the city.
Honningsvaag Norway Located in Norway’s most northerly municipality, Honningsvaag – the ‘North Cape port’ – is the capital of Nordkapp. Bounded by the Barents Sea, Nordkapp comprises Magerøy and the facing stretch of mainland, but the place everyone wants to visit is the North Cape Plateau about 20 miles from Honningsvaag. On a clifftop more than 270 metres above the sea, this is Europe’s most northerly point and the final frontier before the Arctic Ocean. Many thousands of photographs have been taken of visitors beside the globe sculpture on the clifftop, often lit by the Midnight Sun which shines here (clouds permitting) 77 nights of the year.
Huatulco Mexico Beach-lovers are spoilt for choice at Mexico’s first eco-tourism resort, Huatulco, for there are 22 miles of pristine sand stretched across nine sparkling bays, each hidden from the other. Even within these, there are secret coves and hidden lagoons to discover. On the Mexican Riviera coast, southeast of Acapulco and where the foothills of the Sierra Madre meet the Pacific Ocean, Huatulco is in the state of Oaxaca, an area of great natural beauty three-quarters of which has been designated as ecological preservation areas by the Mexican Government. Huelva Spain One of Andalucía’s provincial capitals, Huelva claims to be the Flamenco capital. The fascinating Franciscan monastery, La Rabida, was built on a Muslim fortress in 1412, and is where Columbus prepared for the voyage on which he discovered America. The scenic Sierra Morena lie to the north of the city and a chain of fine beaches to the west. The nearby Coto de Doñana National Park is a massive area of sand dunes, pine woods and freshwater lagoons, filled with scores of flamingos, rare birds of prey, endangered Spanish lynx and a startling variety of migratory birds.
Hvar Croatia It’s easy to see why Hvar is such a popular town on this beautiful Dalmatian Riviera island, where terracotta tiled houses cling to the lush hillside rising from the pretty yacht-filled harbour. The area is rich in history and known for its medieval architecture. Take in the incredible views over Hvar and the surrounding islands from the 16th century Fortica Fortress. The Franciscan monastery, founded in 1461, is home to an intriguing museum. The area benefits from the Mediterranean climate known as ‘the climate of the olive tree’. As a result it enjoys a characteristic clear blue sky for the majority of the year. Invergordon Great Britain The tiny port of Invergordon, is set on the edge of Cromarty Firth – an area of outstanding natural beauty which teems with wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins. In Invergordon itself you can visit the Naval Museum and Heritage Centre and wander the pretty town. Alternatively, you can head out of town to explore the beautiful Scottish Highlands or nearby Inverness.
Isla Margherita Venezuela Order this Margarita and you are guaranteed two for the price of one. Islands, that is, as what were two are now one – joined by a narrow sandbank. The western half is delightfully unspoilt and undeveloped, with sandy, uncrowded beaches and intriguing coves to explore, while all the main sights are in the eastern half. Like the island’s oldest settlement, Pampatar, which has a well-preserved 17th century fort at its heart, or the historic churches and lively waterfront market in the main town, Spanish colonial-style Porlamar. In the Laguna de la Restinga National Park, take a slow boat through the mangroves and see just how many exotic, multi-coloured birds you can spot in the trees. Istanbul Turkey Magical Istanbul – 3,000 years old, spanning two continents and a crucible of cultures where east meets west – is a key Turkish port. If this is your first visit, a tour of the main sights is a good introduction to the city’s treasures, which include the world-famous Blue Mosque, the vibrant old city, the Grand Bazaar (a warren of narrow streets containing more than 4,000 shops, stalls, restaurants and artisans’ workshops) and the Topkapi Palace, famed for its jewels, but which also has spectacular gardens.
Izmir Turkey Turkey’s Aegean shorelines are one of the loveliest in the region with perfect beaches encircled by pinewoods, olive groves, and rocky crags. It’s here you’ll find Izmir, a city surrounded by scenic mountains and home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In fact Izmir is home to many wonderful archaeological sites from past Greek, Roman and Byzantine civilisations, all of which are outstanding in terms of the richness of their natural and historical assets – one of which is the excavated remains of the Agora (market). You can see more in the Archaeological Museum or, for the most spectacular panoramic views over the Aegean Sea, head to Kadifekale.
Jersey Great Britain The pretty island of Jersey is known for its beautiful scenery, acres of clean, white sand beaches and wildlife, here too you’ll find castles and museums that really bring the island’s history to life. The capital, St Helier, boasts smart, sophisticated shops and vibrant Victorian markets including the attractive vegetable market and fish market, these coupled with cafés and restaurants encourage a relaxed ambience. And, of course, lower taxes and no VAT mean that you get really good value for money. Outside of town there are plenty more shopping opportunities where you will find items such as jewellery and pottery.
Julianehab (from Qaqortoq) Greenland From the port of Qaqortoq you can explore Julianehab. As you sail into this remote port you’ll be greeted by the sight of the spectacular rocky mountains whose distinctive peaks carve a jagged path into the skyline. Lying at their feet is the pretty harbour with its colourful wooden houses. Spend time soaking up the breathtaking scenery or head to the colonial part of town to enjoy a snapshot of Greenland’s history in the Town Museum, which is in the town’s oldest building. Located in the town square, next to the fountain, you can discover how the settlement was founded in 1775 and learn about the fascinating Inuit culture.
Juneau Alaska The Alaskan capital of Juneau is full of contrasts with an interesting mix of ancient Alaskan traditions, western commercialism and bustling city life. Its dramatic hillside location and historical downtown buildings provide a frontier feeling, but the city’s cosmopolitan nature comes through in fine museums, noteworthy restaurants, and its outdoorsy populace. Above and beyond the 4,000 foot mountains that create a dramatic backdrop for the city, lies the Juneau Icefield. This colossal ice mass is the pool from which about 30 glaciers flow, the most famous being Mendenhall Glacier.
Katakolon Greece The small Greek port of Katakolon was developed in the 19th century to serve the thriving local trade in currants. Today it is your starting block for Olympia – birthplace of the Olympic Games. A pretty town on the banks of the River Alpheios, Olympia lies only a short drive away from the port and its historic stadium, where the first Olympic torch was lit in 776 BC is a fascinating site to explore. You can still see the marble starting blocks used by early athletes in the 45,000 seat arena, as well as the ruins of the Temple of Hera and the gigantic Temple of Zeus – its gold and ivory statue of Zeus was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. Ketchikan Alaska Ketchikan, the Salmon Capital of the World, is a fascinating, enjoyable and picturesque old city. Nestled at the base of beautiful Deer Mountain, the historic downtown area is centred on one road and is wedged between the water and forested mountains. It’s built into steep hills and partly propped on wooden pilings, with boardwalks, wooden staircases and totem poles dotted throughout. In fact, this small city contains more totem poles than anywhere in the world. Key West United States of America The vibrant resort of Key West is the southernmost of the string of Florida Keys and is as far south as you can travel in the USA. It’s also just about the most laid-back place anywhere in this vast, diverse country. It’s unashamedly touristy but it is also proud of its history. Ernest Hemingway’s restored houseturned-museum is a must for any visitor interested in literary history. Duval Street is the main hub while the Bahamian Quarter provides a glimpse of a far more traditional way of life created by settlers from Cuba and the Bahamas.
Kiel Canal Germany The Kiel Canal is a 61 mile long canal that links the North Sea at Brunsbüttel to the Baltic Sea at Kiel-Holtenau. In June 1887, construction work started at Holtenau near Kiel and it took over 9,000 workers eight years to build. On June 21, 1895 the canal was officially opened by Kaiser Wilhelm II who laid the final stone.
Klaipeda Lithuania Alongside the Baltic Sea, on the beautiful west coast of Lithuania lies Klaipeda. Brimming with bays and beaches, this interesting array of sand dunes, shops and shipyards offers something to suit every taste. The lovingly restored old town retains a unique atmosphere and allure. Antique lamposts appear on every corner and half-timbered buildings stand much as they did 100 – 200 years ago, among stone-paved sidewalks and cosily hidden courtyards. At its heart is Teatro Square named after the ornate Neoclassical theatre building on its northern side. Koper Slovenia Koper has a well-preserved and compact medieval centre with the 15th-century Praetorian Palace as its crowning glory. A mixture of Gothic and Renaissance styles, this beautiful building has become the symbol of the city. One of the oldest buildings in the city is the 12th century Romanesque Carmine Rotunda church, which is filled with precious 14th century frescoes. For a more leisurely time try the lovely sandy beaches at the seaside resort of Ankaran, just across the bay. Korcula Croatia As the reputed birthplace of that great explorer Marco Polo, the Croatian island of Korcula is a must-see for any cruise traveller. Its medieval Old Town, which juts out into the Dalmatian archipelago between Dubrovnik and Split, is surrounded by 14th century stone walls and contains a succession of narrow streets. A fascinating place to explore, the Old Town has numerous gothic, Renaissance and baroque palaces, monuments and galleries. Kotor Montenegro Ruled by Venice for hundreds of years, this lovely coastal town’s architecture bears heavy Venetian influences. Surrounded by impressive walls, which have stood since medieval times, a stroll around the Old City will take you past historic buildings, criss-crossed with narrow streets and squares. The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, constructed in 1166, is one of the oldest and most beautiful examples of Roman architecure along this coast. If you choose to head to Cetinje, the former capital of Montenegro, you can visit King Nicola’s Palace, home to the first and last king of Montenegro.
Kirkwall Great Britain Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands, is a Viking town founded in 1035 by Earl Rognvald Brusason. You’ll find that the original ancient Norse town has been beautifully preserved and provides an intriguing place to while away your time. Visit one of Scotland’s finest town houses – The Tankerness House Museum – where examples of Orkney’s rich archaeology are on display. Alternatively there are two palaces to explore; the mid-century Bishop’s Palace and the stunning Earl’s Palace, with its French Renaissance style architecture.
Kristiansand Norway Norway’s most southerly city, Kristiansand, is also its sunniest and with its beaches, superb scenery, fascinating history and range of attractions, makes it the most popular holiday spot for Norwegians as well as a big hit with visitors. A Renaissance city founded in 1641, Kristiansand’s history is laid out in one of Norway’s largest open-air museums – Vest Agder. It is also apparent in the 17th century Christiansholm Fortress and the rows of attractive old wooden houses in the city centre. Just outside the city are the 960 year old Oddernes Church and the Kristiansand Cannon Museum, with the world’s second largest gun. Other tours take in a visit to Setesdal Mineral Park and the Setesdal Vintage Railway.
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER La Coruna Spain
Lanzarote Canary Islands
Limon Costa Rica
Known as the ‘Crystal City’ due to its unusual galleria balconies which adorn buildings throughout the city, La Coruna is a charming mixture of old and new town with a couple of beaches along the two-mile stretch of coastline it overlooks. The colonnaded Maria Pita Square is at the heart of the old town, with many shops, bars and restaurants. There are various fascinating museums including the interactive House of Mankind, plus an aquarium and planetarium. La Coruna is also the main Atlantic gateway to one of the most ruggedly scenic regions in Spain – Galicia. Among its attractions is one of the top three Christian pilgrimage destinations: Santiago de Compostela.
Lanzarote’s sunny climate makes it a big hit with sunbathers and swimmers who relish its volcanic red, black and white sand beaches. But it’s worth tearing yourself away from the coast to explore the island’s spectacular moon-like volcanic landscape, best seen from the Fire Mountain in the Timanfaya National Park. Head north and you will discover wonderfully verdant Haria – ‘the valley of a thousand palms’ and can enjoy panoramic views from Mirador del Rio. Equally fascinating is a visit to Jameos del Agua cave, an oddly shaped volcanic cave overlooking a saltwater lagoon where you will find a colony of white crabs unique to the island.
Limon is your gateway to some of the most extraordinary experiences imaginable, like the Rainforest Aerial Tram ride through the canopy of a 1,000-acre nature reserve next to a national park. Hop on a jungle boat trip and you can travel silently through the network of jungle canals and enjoy the chance to see what a rainforest is like at ground level. In another part of the forest, you can enjoy a jitney ride through the natural surroundings. Colourful toucans and butterflies fly by while you absorb the atmosphere of this living, breathing forest.
Le Havre France La Palma Canary Islands La Palma is called ‘the fair isle’ because of its fabulous landscape and you will soon see why. Santa Cruz is one of the prettiest harbours among the islands and easily explored on foot. A short stroll along the Avenida Maritime promenade will take you to the lovely old quarter around Plaza de Espana, which has a 16th century fountain, town hall, a magnificent Renaissance church and handicrafts market. Then there’s the island’s most spectacular volcanic crater, Caldera de Taburiente. This beautiful area is filled with rare animal and plant life and has been designated a national park.
La Rochelle France The medieval city of La Rochelle offers an intriguing mix of well preserved and restored historic buildings and market places within a lively modern city full of bars and restaurants and with an excellent aquarium. Tickle your tastebuds with a visit to the small town of Cognac and its famous Courvoisier, Hennessy and Martell cellars. This region also boasts ancient towns like Saintes with Romanesque churches, arches and arenas. La Spezia Italy Tucked into the Ligurian coastline between Genoa and Pisa, is the pretty town of La Spezia – one of Italy’s most important military and commercial harbours. But it’s not this that attracts so many. La Spezia is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site called Cinque Terre – a collection of five coastal villages perched on the coastline. Monterosso al Marc is famous for its beaches. Vernazza is a charming fishing port, Cornigilia is perched high above sea level with painted houses clinging to the cliff face, peaceful Manarolais is modern in comparison and boasts a rocky cove, while Riomaggiore is a pretty town with attractive tall houses marching up the hillside. Back in La Spezia itself you’ll find a number of churches and museums.
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The bustling French port of Le Havre offers a selection of sights including Granville Abbey, St Adresse Fort and the Seine Estuary. Its position also makes it the perfect gateway to some of Normandy’s most picturesque towns and villages, including the pretty harbour of Honfleur and inspirational Etretet characterised by its stylish mansions and sheer white cliffs. In the town, half-timbered houses, churches and cafés sit alongside the great Cathédrale Notre-Dame, which is well worth a visit. Alternatively take in the sights in stylish Paris. Have lunch in one of the city’s many cafés, admire The Louvre’s amazing art collection and meander through Montmartre with its artists and charming square.
Lerwick Scotland Bustling Lerwick is the capital of Scotland’s Shetland Islands. Founded in the 17th century to service Dutch herring fleets, a number of its oldest structures, including the fort, were burnt to the ground many years ago. Today most of its historical architecture can be seen along the waterfront, including sandstone buildings, which date from the 18th century. Perched on the hillside, over the harbour, the town’s lanes retain their charm. As you stroll the narrow streets, discover a mix of shops and restaurants, whilst up on the hillhead stand more recent additions including villas, public parks and the Town Hall.
Limassol Cyprus Sat about halfway along the south coast, Limassol is the ideal base for visitors to enjoy what Cyprus has to offer. Across the island, there is plenty of rugged coastline and mountain scenery to explore and enjoy along with a variety of archaeological sites. A visit to the Troodos Mountains is an excellent way to see the majesty of this island. In the little resort of Troodos you can shop for souvenirs or just enjoy the mountain air. Limassol itself is a working town as well as a holiday resort and has been attractively landscaped with a centre that’s easily walkable. Make sure you visit the 12th century fort where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria and which now houses an excellent medieval museum.
Lisbon Portugal Some of the best views of the Portuguese capital come as you sail along the Tagus River. You pass the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and the ‘Monument to the Discoveries’ with its statue of Henry the Navigator, before arriving at Lisbon. Although small for a European capital, this city does sprawl a little so you would do best to concentrate on three districts – Baixa, Bairro Alto and Alfama, each with its own distinctive style. Baixa has busy streets of inviting shops, cafés and restaurants while Alfama is the atmospheric old town. Bairro Alto is another historic district with narrow streets and it is a steep climb from Baixa so look out for the 100-year-old lift (Elevador do Carmo) near Rossio Square. Liverpool Great Britain The lively city of Liverpool is packed full of history. First there is Albert Dock where you’ll find the largest group of Grade I listed buildings in the UK, home to award winning visitor attractions Tate Liverpool, the famous Beatles Story and the Merseyside Maritime Museum. And then there are the three Edwardian buildings that stand on the Pier Head as testament to the city’s importance to global trade in the early 20th century. You can also visit the largest cathedral in the UK (also the fifth largest in the world), which was designed by Giles Gilbert Scott – who most famously designed the red telephone box.
Lofoten Islands Norway A delightfully remote Arctic archipelago, the Lofoten Islands offer a vista of natural beauty, spectacular even by Norway’s high standards. A latecomer to Norwegian cruising, the Lofoten Islands have quickly become popular because of their picturesque fishing villages, breathtaking views of pristine fjords and huge variety of birdlife. There are even some beautiful white sand beaches which are much appreciated in the islands’ remarkably mild, Gulf Stream-influenced, climate.
Los Angeles United States of America Alive with glitz and glamour, Los Angeles – the City of Angels – is all about fulfilling the American Dream all the way from Hollywood and the original Disneyland to swish Beverly Hills, Malibu and the Hollywood Hills. The film-making capital of the world exudes style and offbeat artistic expression. See all the movie star hand and foot imprints on the sidewalk outside the famous Mann’s Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard or stroll the boardwalk at bohemian Venice Beach with its wacky street artists and musicians.
Madeira When you travel around Madeira it quickly becomes clear why it’s known as the ‘Garden Isle’ – and it’s hardly surprising that colourful flower markets are one of the most arresting features of Funchal, Madeira’s capital. Locally made wicker furniture, lacework and tapestries all make good buys along with the ubiquitous Madeira wine. Funchal is also the base for tours to the fishing village of Camara de Lobos where Churchill went to paint. Malaga Spain This second city of Andalucia has many Moorish influences, seen at their best in the stunning Alcazaba. Built on the site of a Roman fortress between the 8th and 11th centuries, the castle’s huge walls and fortified gates ensure a grand entrance. Inside, a restored Roman amphitheatre now acts as an outdoor entertainment centre. Immediately behind the Alcazaba and rising high above the city with spectacular views, are the ruins of the 14th century Moorish castle, Gibralfaro. If you are in port for the entire day then a trip to the magnificent Moorish Alhambra Palace and its gardens in nearby Granada is a must. Malta GC The fortifications at Malta’s Grand Harbour speak volumes about her past, indeed her reputation for valour during the Second World War earned her the George Cross. Fort St. Elmo, created by the Knights of St. John and once the most impregnable in the world, houses in its National War Museum the famous George Cross. Inland lies the walled city of Medina with its cathedral, natural history museum and citadel offering stunning views across the island.
Marseilles France Birthplace of the revolutionary Marseillaise, and the oldest city in France – Marseille – is a vast, Provencal melting pot. Guarding the entrance of the port are two forts, Fort St-Jean and Fort St-Nicolas, built for King Louis XIVth. Rising serenely above the human hubbub, the statue of the Virgin Mary on the Church of Notre Dame de la Garde extends her arms in perpetual benediction. Along the main street, the Canebiere, elegant shops stand side by side with characterful bars and restaurants. Further afield, why not visit the city of Avignon with its famous ‘pont’ (bridge) and Palace of the Popes? Alternatively, discover the town of Aix en Provence home to gracious mansions and pretty fountains.
Messina Italy An earthquake in 1908 flattened much of the original town, but Messina bounced back and it has since enhanced one of its major surviving attractions – the Duomo, a 12th century Norman church with an astronomical clock in the bell tower. Made in Strasbourg in 1933, the clock face shows the planetary system representing the days of the week and the ages of man. There are more Norman churches, several beautiful medieval fountains and a fascinating museum to visit in the town centre before you head for the area’s main attractions: Mount Etna or the magnificent hill-top town of Taormina. The latter, overlooking the Bay of Giardini, has one of the largest Greco-Roman theatres in the world.
Monte Carlo Monaco Monte Carlo is famous for the four ‘G’s’: the Grimaldi monarchy as well as its Grand Prix, glamour and gambling. The famous Grand Casino is only one of several but, if you are feeling lucky, note that it operates a strict dress code and requires all players to show passports. The first thing you notice when you arrive in port is how pristine the mega-yachts look in the harbour. Monaco’s three main districts are all walkable from the harbour: Monaco Ville (the intriguing old town), La Condamine (business centre), and Monte Carlo (the glitzy new town). Grimaldi Prince Rainier III put Monaco on the map by marrying film star Grace Kelly in 1955 and he is now buried alongside Princess Grace in St. Nicholas Cathedral in Monaco Ville. Montego Bay Jamaica Located on Jamaica’s northwest coast is the island’s most popular resort. Montego Bay or ‘Mo’ Bay’ as the relaxed locals call it, offers everything from great beaches to duty free shopping, and it is also your gateway to historical and natural attractions further afield. A Spanish colony in the 1500’s and a primary sugar port during the era of slavery in the 17th and 18th century, it has an interesting past. Visit one of the colonial houses such as Rose Hall. If you are looking for beautiful white sands, head to one of the best spots in town, Doctor’s Cave Beach. Alternatively, glide down the miles of flourishing forest on a raft ride down the Martha Brae River.
Mytilene Greece Mytilene is the charming capital of the Greek island Lesbos and boasts a beautiful landscape of pine forests and olive groves. Set in the north Aegean Sea, just off the coast of Turkey, the island is now a major olive oil producer but it also has ancient ruins dating back three millennia BC and, of course, is most famous as the birthplace of the poet, Sappho. Outside the capital, there are some fascinating rural villages, historic churches and castles, as well as some attractively rugged scenery around its coastline.
Naples Italy Sailing into the Bay of Naples is a memorable experience. The port is overlooked by the imposing Sant’ Elmo medieval castle, high up on Vemero Hill, as well as the 13th century Castel Nuovo, which is right next to the Naples cruise terminal in the heart of the city. Within a short walk are three of Naples’ best-known landmarks: Castel Nuovo, the 17th century Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale), and the elaborate 18th century San Carlo Opera House. The city’s archaeological museum majors on Pompeii and Herculaneum, the two extraordinary sites that draw most first-time visitors to Naples. The city is also a convenient base for tours to the nearby cliff-top resort of Sorrento and the sophisticated island of Capri.
Nauplia Greece From their position high up on the surrounding hills, two impressive fortresses guard Nauplia’s harbour, as does the small 15th century Bourtzi castle, from an island in the harbour’s centre. With plenty for the visitor to explore, including the awesome amphitheatre at Epidaurus and many fascinating excavations at ancient Mycenae, this popular Greek port of call is an ideal starting-point for tours to the dramatically high-sided Corinth Canal. It also has a lively town centre full of bars, cafés and restaurants. And most sites are within walking distance, apart from the island castle, which is only a short boat trip away. New Orleans United States of America With its atmospheric French Quarter, New Orleans oozes character quite unlike any other American city. It is the sort of place where anything seems to go – that’s why Americans love to call it the “Big Easy”. Its a melting pot of influences; African, French and Caribbean, give this city on the Mississippi River a unique vibrancy. Although a relatively small city, especially by US standards, walking will not get you around all of its sights, so why not climb on board one of its historic streetcars, the oldest continuously operating system in the world.
New York United States of America The ‘Big Apple’ is the USA’s most charismatic city and really does have something for everyone. Love the great outdoors? Stroll through the gorgeous gardens of Central Park, right in the centre of Manhattan. People-watching more your thing? Get a taste of local life in the quaint cafés of bohemian Greenwich Village, or star spot in the boutique and restaurant-lined streets of the sophisticated SoHo and TriBeCa districts. Feast your eyes at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or enjoy the shopping spree of your life at Saks, Macys, Bloomingdales or Century 21 on Cortlandt Street, which is the world’s largest discount warehouse and near that other must-see, Broadway.
Newcastle Great Britain United by seven bridges, Newcastle (a city on the north bank of the River Tyne) and Gateshead (a town on the south bank) have been transformed into a single, vibrant visitor destination. Despite being known today for its contemporary architecture and arts scene, the region has a long history. Situated beyond Hadrian’s Wall at South Shields is the Arbeia Roman Fort built in AD160. Nearby there’s Alnwick Castle, which has been at the centre of many of the country’s famous historical events, and the world-famous contemporary garden – Alnwick Garden.
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER Newport Rhode Island United States of America Fabulous mansions, fantastic scenery and the world famous ten mile Ocean Drive make Newport, Rhode Island a must-see city. From the splendour of its palatial ‘summer cottages’ to its quaint colonial streets, inviting vineyards and numerous marinas. Miles of scenic coastline give it a rugged beauty ideal for sailing, riding and walking. For true nature lovers, Newport’s sanctuaries display a wide variety of bird life while those who want to simply relax could head to lagoon-like Gooseberry beach. Other famous landmarks include Trinity Church, Redwood Library and the Gothic Church of St. Mary’s – where Jacqui and JFK were married.
North Cape Norway Take a cruise around Norway’s North Cape and some of the world’s most spectacular scenery will unfold before your eyes. The northernmost point of Europe lies at the top of Magerøya, an island with 3,500 inhabitants, most of whom live in Honningsvaåg in the Nordfjord. This fishing village – the world’s most northerly settlement – is well inside the Arctic Circle and built around a pretty boat-lined harbour. And the North Cape has more to offer than picturesque scenery and summertime midnight sun. Nuuk Greenland Nuuk, the oldest town in Greenland, is situated at the tip of a large peninsula at the mouth of a vast fjord network, which you’ll be able to witness in all its glory from your ship. It was originally founded by the missionary Hans Egede in 1728 and today the modern world nestles alongside relics from the past. You’ll find beautiful old buildings in Colonial Harbour and also worth a visit are the award-winning Katuaq Cultural Centre, Greenland’s University, the cathedral and the National Museum, where you can spend hours learning about Greenland’s ancient history. Ny Alesund Norway Just 600 miles south of the North Pole, the rugged but spectacularly scenic island of Spitsbergen is civilisation’s most northerly outpost and Ny Alesund is the most northerly settlement on it. Although about two-thirds of Spitsbergen and the handful of smaller, neighbouring islands that make up Norway’s Svalbard territory, are covered in glaciers, the Atlantic Gulf Stream which passes to the west has ensured a rich variety of plants, flowers and birds. A ban on hunting also means there are plenty of polar bears and arctic foxes to be spotted by keen-eyed visitors.
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Ocho Rios Jamaica
Oslo Norway
Panama Canal
Errol Flynn, Ian ‘James Bond’ Fleming and Noel Coward had two key things in common: they all enjoyed the good things in life and they all chose to spend many years of their lives in Jamaica. The two were definitely connected. Near Ocho Rios is Dunn’s River Falls, a large colourful craft market and the Shaw Park botanical gardens. A must-see is Sir Noel Coward’s house, ‘Firefly’, which has superb views over Port Maria while another famous former local resident, Errol Flynn, is reputed to have invented one of the most popular Jamaican excursions – rafting. This involves sitting back on a bamboo raft just big enough for two passengers as your skipper slowly punts it downriver.
Ships sail along the tranquil Oslofjord to reach Oslo; a spectacular city surrounded by snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills. Founded in 1050, it has been Norway’s capital since the end of the 11th century. The modern city is an eclectic mix of ancient castles, frescoed 18th century houses, vast parks and glittering lakes. Must-sees include the Viking House Museum with its display of 9th century longboats, the Munch-museet, which houses works by Edvard Munch, and the medieval Akershus Castle. Nearby, in Aker Brygge, you will find some of Norway’s best restaurants serving classic dishes. Make time, too, for a stroll through Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to more than 190 masterpieces by the famous sculptor Gustav Vigeland.
Everyone should sail through the Panama Canal at least once. It is a remarkable experience and a moving one when you know the mixture of tragedy and triumph which went into its building. The French spent 20 fruitless years trying to build a canal – Suez-style – straight through the land. Then the Americans tried a lock-based canal and, between 1903 and 1914, completed the waterway that stands today.
Odessa Ukraine Just a 10-minute walk from Odessa’s dock side are the Potemkin Stairs, famed for the memorably dramatic crowd scene in Eisenstein’s film ‘Battleship Potemkin’. It has long been a popular coastal resort, but it is its heritage that makes Odessa so popular with visitors. The 19th century five-domed Russo-Byzantine Uspensky Cathedral is a particular feast for the eyes, along with the Italian baroque-style Opera House. This 19th century icon is home to the renowned Odessa Ballet while its ornate interior includes a remarkable ceiling decorated with scenes from Shakespeare plays. You can also visit several lavish palaces and excellent museums and see the monument to poet Alexander Pushkin’s time spent in exile in the city in the 1820s.
Olden Norway The peaceful village of Olden has the perfect fjordland cruise setting – nestling at the southern end of one branch of beautiful Nordfjord. A lake in the valley has been turned a rich, deep green by the minerals in the river pouring down the mountains from the vast, million-year-old Briksdal Glacier. Giant waterfalls also cascade down, making the views spectacular as you travel through the valley to the foot of the glacier – one of the offshoots of the vast Jostedal Glacier now designated as a national park. Other tours head overland to the inner Nordfjord area with its wind-blown rocks, towering mountains and verdant valleys.
Oporto Portugal Oporto is an enchanting, historic city with Roman ramparts and Parisian-style squares. But it’s best known for its port wine – to which the city gave its name. The cathedral area is filled with many treasures, like the Renaissance church of Santa Clara and the densely populated quarter of Barredo, which hasn’t changed since medieval times. The narrow streets of the riverside quarter of Ribeira are delightful and dotted with fashionable bars and restaurants overflowing with seafood.
Palau – Costa Smeralda Sardinia With three sparkling beaches of its own (Capra, Faro and Sciutara), the Sardinian village of Palau is more than just the gateway to the island’s most exclusive resorts on the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast). It also has all the amenities of a top beach resort with a whole range of watersports on offer and a choice of superb fish restaurants. Porto Cervo – Costa Smeralda’s unofficial capital – is just 20 minutes away. This city was created in his own image by the playboy Aga Khan in the 1960s and it is still a big draw for celebrity jetsetters (and celebrity-watchers).
Palermo Sicily Sicily’s capital, Palermo perches at the foot of Monte Pellegrino. Founded in the 5th century, it has alternately enjoyed and endured one of the most colourful histories of any Mediterranean city. Greeks, Romans, Carthaginians, Arabs and Goths have all come and gone, leaving their mark on the population as well as the architecture. Despite being a lively modern city, there is history at every turn – don’t miss the Capuchin Catacombs full of Palermitans mummified by the Capuchin monks. Just outside Palermo is Monreale with its lavishly decorated cathedral, a highlight of this region.
Palma Spain Dominated by its iconic gothic cathedral, the Majorcan capital, Palma, has been transformed in recent years into one of the most sophisticated hotspots of the Mediterranean. From the harbour filled with expensive yachts, wander up to the magnificent cathedral, which took 500 years to complete. Spreading out around this ancient structure with its impressive views, is a collection of side streets and alleys which give a sense of the city’s cultural past and Moorish influences. Walking from the old town you reach the thoroughfare of Passeig d’es Born with its many cafés where you can sample freshly baked spiral pastries called ensaimadas, a local speciality.
Patmos Greece Patmos is a charmingly small, but perfectly formed island that nestles in the Aegean Sea and boasts some of the area’s most attractive beaches and beautiful landscape. From its lofty mountain position the impressive Monastery of St John dominates the island, and the cave where the saint reputedly lived has been turned into a shrine and enclosed by religious buildings. In fact it was St John that gave the island its nickname the ‘Holy Island’ as he wrote the last book of the bible while exiled here. Pisa (from Livorno) Italy Founded in the 16th century by the Grand Dukes of Tuscany – the Medici Family, Livorno remains a busy port and town. Its centre, which is walkable from the port, has some pretty bars, cafés and classy shops, but many of Livorno’s visitors head straight for Pisa. There are many pieces of great architecture in the stately ‘Square of Miracles’. The Leaning Tower is this city’s most famous landmark, but be certain to visit the equally exquisite Baptistry next door.
Ponta Delgada Azores A strong Portuguese influence pervades in Ponta Delgada from the stylish colonial architecture to the food and wine served in its restaurants. Ponta Delgada is probably the most spectacularly beautiful of the nine Azore islands. It certainly has the most dramatic attraction: Sete citadades. This is a 15 square mile extinct volcanic crater in which two separate lakes have formed – one deep blue, the other emerald green. Port Canaveral (for tours to Orlando) United States of America Port Canaveral is the gateway to Orlando – home of killer whales, white-knuckle rides and Walt Disney. MGM Studios, the Magical Kingdom and the original Disney World are the places to make your childhood fantasies come true. Or why not visit Universal Studios and learn the secrets of movie making whilst visiting all your favourite sets? See the aquatic spectacle of Seaworld, or gaze at the stars at the Kennedy Space Center – home to one of the largest space observatories – where you can explore the ‘Explorer’ and spot satellite space stations.
Port Everglades (for tours to Miami) United States of America The vibrant metropolitan city and beautiful beach resort of Miami sits on the south coast of the US state of Florida. Boasting sun soaked beaches, superb parks, world-class shopping and stunning skylines it offers a fantastic selection of sights and attractions. The cosmopolitan atmosphere, cultural diversity and colourful arts scene flourishes amongst its eclectic mix of communities and districts. South Beach is where it all happens and here you will find up and coming galleries, theatres, as well as trendy restaurants and bars. If it’s celebrity glamour you are after, then visit the fashionable areas of Coconut Grove.
Port Mahon Menorca Port Mahon, the capital city of Menorca, boasts the second deepest natural harbour in the world, but its real claim to fame is being the birthplace of mayonnaise – invented in 1756 for the Duke of Richelieu. The city’s historic centre has been carefully restored and is a wonderful place to enjoy a coffee and the archetypal ‘mañana’ spirit. You can visit the former home of Nelson’s Lady Hamilton, stroll around the shops or stop at one of the beautiful beaches. Keep an eye out for the fascinating Bronze Age stone monuments, called talayots, that dot the landscape.
Portland ME United States of America Just north of Boston and nestling on a peninsula in the delightful Casco Bay, Portland’s restored waterfront has an eclectic mix of pubs, restaurants, galleries and arty-crafty boutiques. The Victorian mansion in the town centre is one of the finest examples of Italian villa-style architecture in the country, and a must-see attraction. Just along the rugged coast at Cape Elizabeth is the world’s oldest permanently-operating lighthouse – the 18th century Portland Headlight. As you might expect, the views are just spectacular. Portofino Italy The delightful seaside town of Portofino is a favourite Italian Riviera hangout of the rich and famous. To experience a real touch of class, it’s worth the climb up through exquisite tiered gardens to the Hotel Splendido – a former Benedictine monastery perched right above the harbour – which lives up to its name and is a spectacular setting for afternoon tea. Alternatively, stay at sea level and catch a boat across to Santa Margherita, a wonderfully old-fashioned Riviera resort. Praia da Rocha Portugal A jewel of a resort on Portugal’s Algarve, Praia da Rocha is famous for the glorious beach which stretches along its restaurant and café-lined waterfront. Attractions include Aqualand, Zoomarine ocean life theme park and the beach, all within easy reach of the port. There is also the 17th century Fortress of Santa Catarina to explore. Just inland is the Ria de Alvor estuary, a wilderness of salt flats and sand dunes home to dozens of bird species. Also worth exploring is the charming Old Town to see the ornately gilded Chapel of Sonto Antonio. At nearby Cape St. Vincent, the dramatic 20 metre high cliffs known as the ‘End of Europe’ are breathtaking.
Princess Cays United States of America Ever dreamed of having your own private island in the sun? Princess Cays is just that – for one whole day. The perfect Bahamian island with golden sandy beaches lapped by unbelievably translucent turquoise waters. If you are feeling energetic, the waters are safe for swimming and ideal for snorkelling and diving as the surrounding coral reefs are teeming with iridescent fish and other exotic marine life. Propriano Corsica Tucked into the narrowest part of the Golfe de Valinco on Corsica, Propriano boasts a fine natural harbour. It’s a charming place with an unhurried ambience and its main hub is a palm-lined seafront overlooked by café and restaurant terraces. Used by the ancient Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans, and raided by Saracen pirates in the 18th century, today it is revered for its beautiful beaches. The nearest of these, plage de Lido, is only 1km from the port. But don’t miss the gorgeous coves along the enchanting northern shore of the gulf, around Olmeto plage.
Puntarenas Costa Rica Puntarenas in Costa Rica shares its name with the province which surrounds it, which is the largest province in Costa Rica, and boasts the most varied landscape. Here you can explore the leafy byways of dense mangrove swamps and, on higher ground, discover sub-alpine flowers. Further afield, there is luscious countryside to explore in Manuel Antonio Park, where verdant rainforests border some of Costa Rica’s finest beaches and the snorkelling is superb. Follow forest trails to enjoy spectacular views and hopefully spot some of the inhabitants, which include sloths, iguanas and pretty little squirrel monkeys.
Quebec Canada Quebec City is a living testimonial to the grace of Old Europe. Its steep cobbled streets make an atmospheric counterpoint to the trees blazing crimson, yellow and gold and creating one of the most dazzling spectacles on earth. Artists display their wares in its tree-lined squares and Europhiles can shop for fine antiques and savour fine coffee, croissants and La Vie Francais in Parisian-style pavement cafés. Do not miss the magnificent view from the turrets of medieval-style Chateau Frontenac, which dominates the city.
Ravenna Italy Now land-locked, Ravenna began life in a similar way to Venice with houses built on piles on a group of small islands in a marshy lagoon, but it went on to be one of the most important cities in Europe during the late Roman period. For a city with such historic monuments, the centre feels surprisingly modern, but the churches and mosaics are magnificent. The tomb of Dante is in the church of San Francesco, elements of which date from the 4th century, and the Neonian Baptistry is a converted Roman bathhouse, a logical one as baptisms involved total immersion in those days.
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Rotterdam The Netherlands
San Juan del Sur Nicaragua
The name means ‘Smoky (or Steamy) Bay’ and Reykjavik’s reputation as a truly cultural, cosmopolitan city, with great restaurants and lively nightlife, has made it a hugely popular destination. Reykjavik – and most of Iceland for that matter – is not actually icy at all. It may be the most northerly capital in the world and in the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’, but if you want ice, you have to travel away from the capital on one of the exciting glacier safari tours. But the most popular destination remains the nearby Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, where minerals bubble up from 1,520 metres below the earth’s surface.
The city of Rotterdam is located on the banks of the North Sea by the Nieuwe Waterweg. One of Rotterdam’s main attractions is Diergaarde Blijdorp, a zoo featuring the impressive Oceanium where visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks. Rotterdam also attracts a great deal of international interest as a city of architecture. Across a few square miles in the city centre, you can find a complete overview of 20th century developments in modern architecture, from the pre-war Van Nelle Factory, designed around the concepts of light, air and space, to the striking Kubuswoning, or Cube Houses, a signature creation of Dutch architect Piet Blom.
You cannot miss the main attraction of Nicaragua’s newest cruise call San Juan del Sur – the pure white sand beach stretches for more than two miles. It is perfect for swimming or for just admiring from one of the cafés along the front. The views are equally spectacular over to the mountains and forests which are the backdrop to this ultra laid-back town. For sightseeing, you need to take the tour to Granada, one of the country’s most important cities. On the shores of 92-mile long Lake Nicaragua and overlooked by the Mombacho volcano, Granada was founded by the conquistadors in 1524 making it the country’s oldest Spanish city. Its colonial style cathedral and plaza make it a hugely enjoyable place to walk.
Rhodes Greece You may feel as though you have stepped back in time when you arrive in Rhodes’ magnificent walled Old Town – the largest inhabited medieval town in the whole of Europe. This historical place has made the island the most popular tourist destination in the Dodecanese. Visit the 14th century Palace of the Grand Masters and Hospital of the Knights of St. John, the pink-domed, 16th century Mosque of Suleyman and the Byzantine Museum, housed in an 11th century church. Make time too to visit Lindos, with its ancient Acropolis featuring the 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia. Roatan Honduras Roatan is one of the three beautiful Bay islands located off the north coast of Honduras. Set on a coral reef and beholding scenic reserves, botanical gardens and some of the finest beaches in Latin America and the Caribbean, the eco-tourism sector here is blossoming. Within the island’s lush tropical landscape you will find jungles, forests, mangrove canals and mountain peaks. Visit Carambola Botanical Gardens and the Roatan Butterfly Gardens or take a canopy tour to appreciate its natural charms. Rome (from Civitavecchia) Italy Standing in the Colosseum, visiting the Vatican City and tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain are all unique once in a lifetime experiences to be had in the Eternal City of Rome. The city’s other must-sees include the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon (probably the most complete ancient Roman building in the city) and the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s masterpieces. The Piazza Navone is one of the most famous and arguably the most beautiful of Rome’s many squares, boasting three magnificent fountains – including Bernini’s ornate ‘Fountain of the Four Rivers’ – and the baroque church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. While steeped in history, Rome is also a modern, bustling city with modern designer shops and chic boutiques at every turn.
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Salerno Italy The lively port of Salerno has a pleasant, relaxed air. Its interesting centro storico is a vibrant area of medieval churches, neighbourhood trattorias and neon-lit wine bars, and its seafront is a fine place for a leisurely stroll. The city flourished under the Normans in the 11th century and its Scuola Medica Salernitana was one of medieval Europe’s greatest medical institutes, but more recently it was the site of the Allied landing of September 1943. The enormous Duomo, built in 1076, is the city’s highlight; as well as two elegant mosaic pulpits dating from 1173, it contains the tomb of St Matthew, who was moved there in the 10th century.
Santa Margherita Italy
Samos Greece
Santorini Greece
Known as the ‘Island of the Blessed’ Samos has something for everyone. There are breathtakingly beautiful beaches of sand and shingle with many secluded and deserted coves. There are fine mountains and plenty of peaceful countryside full of colourful flowers, as well as reminders of the ancient Greeks who lived here. The island’s most famous inhabitant, Pythagorus, was born here circa 560 BC.
The world famous island of Santorini is the southern most island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea. The island’s prehistoric past has come to light with the excavations at Akrotiri, whilst the legacy of Greek civilisation can be seen at the ancient city located on Mesa Vouno. You can see most of the artefacts from these periods in the Archeological Museum in Fira, the island’s capital. Santorini is best known for its abundance of beautiful and unique churches (there’s over 250 to see) and its perfect beaches, which can be found along the eastern and the south-eastern side of the island.
San Francisco United States of America Cruising under the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco is one of the world’s greatest travel experiences for it acts as gateway to a fascinating city set across dozens of hills overlooking the bay. The famous Fisherman’s Wharf harbourfront restaurant and multi-coloured boats complex faces out towards the former island prison of Alcatraz which is now a major tourist attraction, just like the city’s colourful Chinatown district and upmarket shopping centre in Union Square. And no visit to San Francisco would be complete without a trip on the city’s 130-year-old tram system. San Juan Puerto Rico Dating back to 1521, El Viejo San Juan – or Old San Juan – is not only the most attractive part of the Puerto Rican capital but it is also one of the most fascinating historic areas in the whole Caribbean. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with 16th and 17th century Spanish colonial houses. At the 16th century fortress, El Morro, you will be amazed at the medieval nooks and crannies, dungeons, lookouts, courtyards, ramps, hidden staircases and gun turrets it conceals. As one of the Caribbean’s larger islands, Puerto Rico has enough room for an enchanting 27,000-acre rainforest: El Yunque.
Once a quiet fishing village in the shadow of its flashier near neighbour Portofino, Santa Margherita has developed into a charming resort with its own distinct appeal. As well as the inviting cafés, restaurants and bars around the harbour, Santa Margherita is unusual for this part of the Italian coastline in having some fine, sandy beaches. There are boutiques around the harbour and along the narrow lanes that lead from there into the pretty town. Well worth a visit are the ruins of its 15th century castle, several baroque-style churches, and of course, Portofino, which is just along the coast.
Sassnitz Germany The atmospheric harbour town of Sassnitz is located on Germany’s largest island, Rügen – an island known for its extraordinarily varied landscape, sheer cliffs and fine sandy beaches. In Sassnitz itself you’ll find a beautiful old town, great shopping opportunities and a fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology. From the harbour you take a short voyage to Cape Arkona – a sheer, 45-metre chalk cliff at the tip of the Wittow peninsula. Its two lighthouses are the oldest on the Baltic coast dating from 1826 and 1827.
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER Savona Italy Standing proud at the port of Savona is the 14th century tower La Torretta, but explore further ashore and you’ll find Piazza Mameli with its impressive Rintocchi e Memorie monument (built to commemorate the soldiers who died during the First World War) and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption – built between 1589 and 1605. In the middle of the old town is Piazza del Brandale where you’ll find the palace from which the Aldermen governed the town. The palace houses paintings, sculptures and frescoes. Just outside Savona is the medieval area, home to the impressive fortress of Priamàr.
Skjolden Norway Surrounded by steep hills with spectacular falls, Skjolden is located at the head of the longest navigable fjord in the world – Sognefjord. As well as being situated in a breathtaking location, the town itself is host to a number of activities and attractions. Visit Urnes Stave Church, the oldest stave church found in Norway, included on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. And in the Jostedalsbreen National Park you can discover everything from fjords to green valleys, farms, barren mountains and glaciers, with peaks rising to 2,000 metres. At its heart stands the Jostedal glacier, the largest glacier in mainland Europe, where you can enjoy a thrilling walk on the blue glacier ice.
Seattle United States of America Seattle is located in a magnificent setting on the sparkling shores of Elliott Bay, with Lake Washington behind and the snowy peak of Mount Rainier off in the distance. Its modern skyline of glass skyscrapers is testament to the prosperity brought to the city by its many success stories including Microsoft and Starbucks, yet it still retains its pleasant down-toearth ambience. The Northwest Seaport Maritime Heritage Center is a popular destination for history enthusiasts. And Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continually operated markets in the USA. You can’t miss The Space Needle, which proudly stands at 605 feet tall.
Sete France The sleepy French town of Sete boasts a pleasant harbourfront promenade and the walkable town centre criss-crossed by canals has enough boutiques and arty shops to while away a morning. But you may also want to visit the modern university town of Montpelier with its beautiful medieval old town. Also nearby is the less well known but equally fascinating walled city of Aigues Mortes, built for Saint Louis King of France as a departure harbour for the 13th century Crusades and set in a eerie landscape of saltpans, ponds and seamarshes.
Sitka Alaska Sitka, on the waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage, is undoubtedly Alaska’s most beautiful seaside town. Located at the heart of the world’s largest temperate rainforest – the Tongass National Forest – it is surrounded by island-studded waters, stately spruce forests, jagged mountains and a towering volcano. Sitka’s rich history is a unique blend of Tlingit culture and Russian heritage, which combines comfortably with the Alaskan wilderness to provide a diverse and unequalled experience. Skagway Alaska Skagway is a Southeast Alaskan paradise, full of culture and brimming with life. As you walk through parts of the city you’ll feel like you are back in 1898 at the height of the Alaskan gold rush, when the city was known as the ‘Gateway to the Klondike’. The frontier-style saloons and bars along the rustic boardwalk date back to the late 19th century and form part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. They are perfectly preserved and filled with unusual and interesting artefacts and local heritage. 226 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
St Kitts If you have ever dreamt of the classic Caribbean island, chances are it looked a lot like St. Kitts. You will recognise that mixture of deserted beaches, sleepy villages, lush rainforest greenery and sugarcane fields and maybe even the mini-mountain range with a dormant volcano in its midst. Yet the first thing you will see when you arrive is pretty much brand new. You can explore the back streets and impressively restored Georgian buildings of the capital, Basseterre. Independent since 1983, St. Kitts covers just 65 square miles but has its own World Heritage site: Brimstone Hill fortress. Another option for St. Kitts cruise visitors is a trip to sister island Nevis. St Lucia
Sorrento Italy Perched on top of a craggy cliff along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Sorrento presents a dramatic face to visitors. Service always comes with a smile in the shops, cafés and restaurants around its pretty piazzas, and you will also discover some fascinating buildings including a 15th century cathedral and the 14th century Correale Palace. Jewellery stores and plenty of designer labels make this an exciting place for shopaholics too. The main attractions of this region are the extraordinary sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the frenetic city of Naples and the sophisticated island of Capri.
Split Croatia Nestling on the sparkling Dalmatian coast, the medieval Croatian port of Split faces the myriad of magical islands of the Kornati archipelago and houses Diocletian’s Palace, one of the best preserved Roman palaces in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander around its huddle of alleys and piazzas and then, for a great view, climb the exposed steps to the top of the 60-metre-high cathedral bell tower. Sip a drink at one of the many cafés along the seafront Riva or pop into a Konoba (wine cellar) to sample the excellent locally produced reds and whites. Just three miles from Split are the ruins of ancient Salona, once capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. St John New Brunswick Canada St. John has long been a shipbuilding centre and there are fascinating replicas of historic sailing ships in its New Brunswick museum. The Old City Market is well worth a visit as is the impressively Romanesque Country Courthouse. The surrounding countryside is ideal for hiking and biking, especially in the Fundy National Park, a lush plateau to the east of St. John and along the St. John River valley where you can witness the natural wonder of the Reversing Falls – a phenomena which occurs when the high tide causes the river to change direction. St John’s Newfoundland Canada En route from New England to Canada, this charming and historic port, St John’s is the capital of Newfoundland and the oldest city in Canada. Dating back to the 16th century, its long heritage is reflected in some well-preserved historic buildings. The surrounding countryside is exceptionally scenic and you can enjoy some spectacular walks, particularly around Cape Spear and nearby Petty Harbour.
St Lucia has a fascinating, if bloody, history with the French and British spending years fighting over it. One look at this luscious island will show you why. Cloaked in verdant rainforests, its skyline dominated by the dramatic twin peaks of Les Pitons and its gardens a riot of hibiscus and bougainvillea; St. Lucia is the epitome of a Caribbean paradise. Here you can bask on beautiful beaches, visit charming fishing villages, view stunning volcanic scenery and glory in the Caribbean’s best botanical gardens.
St Maarten Half French and half Dutch, St. Martin/Sint Maarten is one of the Caribbean’s most diverse and interesting islands. The Dutch capital Philipsburg is a delightful warren of narrow streets called steegjies, where you will find interesting shops and leafy courtyard cafés. Start your exploration at Wathey Square, which is home to a fine collection of traditional West Indian ‘gingerbread’ houses. If you would prefer to enjoy a little French ‘je ne sais quoi’, take an island tour to the pretty French capital Marigot, worth visiting for its markets, lovely café-lined waterfront and the chic boutiques of Marina Port La Royale.
St Peter Port Guernsey A busy port since Roman times and one-time home of Victor Hugo, St. Peter Port, is the prettiest town in the Channel Islands. The best way to discover the true beauty of Guernsey is on foot, exploring the Ruettes – tranquil, quiet lanes that are dedicated to walkers, cyclists and horse riders. And history lovers will be in their element exploring Castle Cornet, the last Royalist stronghold of the English Civil War, now home to several museums and theatrical events. Fort Grey was a bastion against Napoleon and is now a fascinating Shipwreck Museum while the German Occupation Museum gives a vivid account of island life during WWII.
St Petersburg Russia You’ll have two full days in St. Petersburg; after all the jewel in the Baltic’s crown deserves no less, for here – on the broad banks of the River Neva and in the magnificent palaces and churches which characterise the city’s skyline – you will find Russia at its most dramatic, flamboyant and captivating. Put the Hermitage Museum right at the top of your sightseeing list; its magnificent buildings and palaces contain the world’s most comprehensive collection of art and sculpture, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Gaugin, Rembrandt and Matisse. The city’s other treasures include the Yusupov Palace (where ‘the mad monk’ Gregori Rasputin was dramatically murdered in 1916); Catherine the Great’s palace (with its breathtaking 298 metre white, gold and blue façade); St Isaac’s Cathedral (which has marble walls studded with semi-precious stones); the onion-spired Church on Spilled Blood and the battleship Aurora, whose guns signalled the start of the Russian Revolution.
St Raphael France One of the most exclusive of all the ritzy French Riviera resorts, St. Raphael has an inviting beach and collection of smart shops and restaurants along its promenade. It also has an unusual museum of underwater archaeology but, for historical sightseeing, nearby Frejus is more rewarding. The best Roman ruins – an amphitheatre, aqueduct, and smaller theatre – are in its upper, older quarter (Frejus Ville) a mile from the seafront (Frejus Plage) and also in Frejus Ville is a 12th century gothic cathedral built on the site of a Roman temple, next to a 5th century Baptistry. St Thomas Virgin Islands, UK The duty-free shopping capital of the Caribbean and possibly the world, St. Thomas also happens to be one of the prettiest islands. Its capital, Charlotte Amalie, boasts one of the most attractive Caribbean harbours. There are great views from the Paradise Point Tramway via a cable car ride that takes you up 700 feet above the port. Don’t miss Magen’s Bay, voted one of the world’s top ten most beautiful beaches, and the Coral World Marine Park with its three-level underwater observatory. Or why not take the short boat trip to neighbouring St. John where its national park has more than 40 unspoilt beaches and coves? St Vincent Although he never landed on the island, Columbus sailed past on St Vincent’s Day in the Spanish calendar, and so gave the island its name. There’s a strong British influence here as the island’s official British roots go back to the mid 18th century. Notable sights include La Soufrière, a volcano over 1,200 metres high that last erupted at the end of the 1970s. In Kingstown the botanical gardens are well worth a visit, there’s even a descendent of the original breadfruit tree planted by Captain Bligh.
Stavanger Norway The gateway to Norway’s spectacularly scenic fjordland, Stavanger is also a town with its own rich heritage as it is regarded as the ‘Cradle of the Vikings’. Your ship will dock right next to Gamle Stavanger, the old quarter, with its collection of 200-year-old white wooden houses, markets, craft stores, art galleries and a 12th century cathedral modelled on Winchester Cathedral. Look out, too, for the Three Swords monument in the Hafrsfjord rock recalling the Viking sea battle won by King Harald the Fairhair to create Norway as one kingdom back in the 9th century.
Tampa United States of America
Stockholm Sweden
Tangier Morocco
One of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia, Sweden’s capital, Stockholm – where the Baltic meets lovely Lake Malaren – is approached through a string of 14 islands and myriad small islets. The heart of this famous city is its medieval quarter, Gamla Stan, which dates from the 13th century. Here you can stroll through narrow cobbled streets lined with quirky shops and atmospheric cafés, explore the spooky gothic cathedral of Storkyran, discover the elaborate 17th century Nessin Palace and visit Sweden’s oldest museum, the Livrustkammaren – home to five centuries’ worth of royal carriages, clothes and weaponry (its most unusual exhibit is Streiff – the stuffed stallion which once carried King Gustav II into battle).
The mirage-like city of Tangier, located on the North African coast at the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, is the notorious gateway to Africa. Its rich history is filled with many colourful civilisations and cultures, and dates back to the 5th century BC. One time playground for adventure seekers and the rich and famous, today this lively place has a cosmopolitan population with an infamous cultural vibe. There’s a stylish café society on Tangier’s wonderful boulevards, and merchants line the maze of narrow streets in the medina (old city).
Stornoway Great Britain On the Outer Hebridean island of Lewis you can discover world famous archaeological sites including the Neolithic ‘Callanish Stones,’ (which predate the Egyptian Pyramids) the Pictish Carloway Broch (roundhouse) and the Norse mill house. You can also visit the Lews Castle ground, where you can walk among the broad woodland which was planted in the mid 19th century by Sir James Matheson and is now owned by the community.
Tallinn Estonia Tallinn is a fascinating medieval capital. This multi-faceted jewel of a city and its architecture – a legacy of Teutonic, Polish and Russian rule – will be certain to impress, from the spectacular onion domes of the Nevski Russian Orthodox Cathedral to the baroque Toompea Castle (home of the Estonian Parliament) and the elaborate gothic façade of the 13th century Raekoda, Europe’s oldest town hall. The magnificent St. Mary’s Cathedral, with its display of more than 100 coats of arms, is also worth a visit, but it is worth taking time out just to stroll the winding streets and cobbled squares of the city’s atmospheric old town, where you will find exquisite amber jewellery, fine lacework and gorgeous woollen jackets at bargain prices.
Tampa, Florida’s third largest city, is a jewel on the sunshine state’s Gulf Coast. As well as a gleaming modern cityscape, you’ll find no shortage of sun, sand and warm blue water. The revitalized historic district, Ybor City, is a wonderful place to wander around with its al fresco restaurants and to watch the traditional hand-rolled cigars being made. The museums are first-class, the enormous Florida Aquarium is fantastic and the shopping, especially at Channelside, is excellent. Surrounded by Florida’s famed resort beaches, theme parks and wondrous Busch Gardens, you won’t run out of things to do.
Tenerife Canary Islands Tenerife is blessed with one of the world’s most dramatic and varied landscapes, ranging from verdant valleys to glorious beaches and the volcanic ‘moonscape’ of Mount Teide National Park. Tenerife’s port Santa Cruz has grown from a fishing village to a splendid city with classy bars and restaurants, varied shops, fine architecture and interesting museums. For a family day out, make sure you don’t miss Loro Park, home to many exotic animals including killer whales, sea lions, gorillas, tigers and the world’s largest collection of parrots.
Thessaloniki Greece Thessaloniki is in the historic and evocative heart of Macedonia. Although Greek in origin, the city rose to its greatest prominence under the Byzantine Empire. Today, amidst the exquisite churches and ruins that remain, life oozes with culture and sophistication. Step back in time as you explore some of the fascinating archaeological sites, including the Palace of Galerius at Navarino Square, which dates back to 300 AD. Other highlights include Aristolelous Square, the White Tower and the ancient site of Aigai, containing the royal tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. The many museums here house everything from interesting artefacts to socially significant artworks.
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P&O CRUISES PORT GAZETTEER Tortola Virgin Islands, UK If you want to experience the ‘undiscovered’ Caribbean, visit the unspoiled British Virgin Island of Tortola. Rising to 1,709 feet at its highest point and famed for its rugged volcanic landscape, Tortola has proved difficult to develop as a major tourist haunt, and so has preserved its charm. Its quaint capital, Road Town, is charming and compact – home to a colourful crafts market and a range of small speciality shops. You will also find some of the loveliest and least crowded beaches in the Caribbean. At Cane Garden Bay you can tuck into a barbecued freshly caught fish, snorkellers will find the most eye-boggling marine life, while those who prefer to stay on land can explore the spectacular virgin rainforest at Mount Sage National Park. Toulon France Toulon has unexpected charm. Look out for the superb maritime and art museums, the magnificent romanesque cathedral and Le Marche, where fresh flowers, fruit and vegetables are displayed every day. The best view of the old town and the harbour is from Mont Faron which overlooks both – take the funicular up from Boulevard L’Amiral Vence. There are some excellent beaches a short drive along the coast. Or you can head for the beautiful and often dramatic Provencal countryside or to the French Riviera resorts. Tracy Arm Alaska Tracy Arm, located 50 miles southeast of Juneau, is a 653,179-acre wilderness filled with spectacular glacier-carved fjords. On your morning cruise through you’ll find huge icebergs, mountain peaks that reach higher than 7,000 feet and vertical wall of chiselled granite streaming with countless waterfalls. But the highlights of this 25-mile-long fjord off Holkum Bay are twin Sawyer Glaciers, North Sawyer and South Sawyer, arguably the bluest and most beautiful glaciers in Alaska.
Travemunde Germany Travemunde is an idyllic little town fringed by sandy beaches and set against a backdrop of dense pine forests. Located at the mouth of the river Trave, the town was created by ‘Henry the Lion’, Duke of Saxony, when a stronghold was placed here in the 12th century to guard the mouth of the Trave. With a notable maritime history, today there is a distinctly cosmopolitan feel to the town. Just inland from Travemunde is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lübeck , the former capital and Queen City of the Hanseatic League. Despite the damage suffered during the Second World War, the old city, consisting mainly of 15th and 16th century patrician residences, public monuments (including the famous Holstentor brick gate), churches and salt storehouses, remains unaltered. From Travemunde you can also visit the vibrant city of Hamburg.
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Trieste Italy Trieste is a lovely city with a pretty medieval Old Town. You can’t fail to notice the Basilica di San Silvestro sitting high atop Colle Capitolino hill, or the equally impressive 14th century cathedral which presides over the Piazza della Cattedrale. Also worth a visit are the lively harbour area, the city’s multitude of museums, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia, an expansive square which frames the seafront and is home to the Town Hall. Alternatively climb the 200 steps to the top of the Victory Lighthouse for spectacular views over the city. Tripoli Libya Tripoli, is a typical North African city of narrow streets and lively souks. It also has a fascinating national museum but the real treasures are out in the desert which covers most of this country. First, along the coast to the east of the capital, is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in North Africa or Europe: Leptis Magna. Its remarkably impressive scale and condition is down to the protection afforded by the layers of desert sand which buried it until its discovery early last century. Along the coast to the west and near the border with Tunisia is another Roman city, Sabratha.
Tromsø Norway It is easy to make the most of a day in Norway’s most northerly city, Tromsø, because, in summer, it never gets dark. The best way to see its full glory is to take a cable car 480 metres up to the top of Mount Storsteinen. The launch pad for many Polar expeditions, Tromsø lies just under 250 miles north of the Arctic Circle and, if you are fascinated by the world of snow and ice, the city’s Polaria Science Museum is the place to visit. Within its iceberg-shaped walls you can meet the local wildlife at a vast aquarium, experience an Arctic snowstorm or take a virtual trek through the frozen wilderness to encounter polar bears and see the mystical Northern Lights.
Tunis (from La Goulette) Tunisia La Goulette, the port for Tunis, lies about 40 minutes shuttle bus drive away from the city, but is much closer to the ruins of Carthage. The 2nd century Colosseum and Roman Temple are only 20 minutes drive from the port, and most excursions combine Carthage with a restful stop at the pretty seaside village of Sidi Bou Said. There are more archaeological treasures to be found in Tunis itself; the Musée du Bardo houses a huge collection of Byzantine and Roman mosaics, while you can see sections of the old Roman aqueduct running through the city centre. But the focal point for most visitors to the city is its bustling medina – the old walled town, with its graceful, tree-lined squares and lively souk.
Turku Finland The medieval city of Turku emerged on the banks of Aurajoki River and provides a fascinating day ashore for visitors. The eastern bank is home to the magnificent 13th century cathedral, the Old Town Centre and a variety of different museums celebrating this ancient city’s heritage. Cross the bridge to the west bank and you’ll be rewarded with the impressive Turku Castle and the Forum Marinum maritime centre and museum. Located just a stone’s throw from the pretty 18th century Market Square, are the recently renovated Turku Art Museum, the Market Hall and the magnificent Main Library.
Valencia Spain Vibrant Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is a popular and picturesque resort. Amongst art and architecture you can see plazas, palaces, churches and cathedrals, before heading to one of the city’s white sandy beaches to cool off. Valencia cathedral displays three magnificent portals; one baroque, one romanesque and one gothic. Once inside you can climb the octagonal Miguelete Bell Tower to see sweeping views then from here navigate the narrow streets to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the Museo de Belles Artes or the towers of Torres de Serranos.
Trondheim Norway Looking south along the picturesque Trondheim fjord, the most northerly in Norway’s west coast Fjordland region, are lush forests and valleys. Look north and you see the beginnings of the vast expanse of the Arctic Ocean. But, whichever way you are heading, there is much to enjoy in Trondheim before you set sail. Visit Stiftsgarden, the King of Norway’s official residence, or the Archbishop’s Palace, the oldest secular building in Scandinavia. Among the several fascinating museums is one featuring the decorative arts with its collections of 16th century ceramics and Art Nouveau artefacts. For the best bars and restaurants, try the 18th century Bakklandet waterfront district.
Vancouver Canada Vancouver, Canada’s third-largest city, is dynamic, multicultural, and set in a spectacular natural environment. Cradled between the ocean and snow-capped mountains, its idyllic waterfront is dotted with fine beaches and it has an abundance of parkland. Its dazzling Downtown district occupies a narrow peninsula and is lined with modern architecture and mirror-fronted skyscrapers. Beyond the city the Coast Mountains rise in steep, forested slopes and offer a profusion of outdoor activities.
Venice Italy This World Heritage city is just about the perfect port because everything you want to see is so easily accessible. There are just the two choices for getting around: the vaporetto (water-bus) network or walking. A gondola ride is really for fun and romance rather than transportation. To see some of the main sights you can start from St. Mark’s Square, with its ancient Basilica, lavish Doge’s Palace and imposing bell tower, then follow signs for the shop-lined Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. But wherever you walk, there are intriguing arty shops, museums and galleries plus some tasty cafés and restaurants along the way.
Victoria Canada Victoria, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, is the capital city of British Columbia, Canada. Yet it’s a small, relaxed and pleasantly sophisticated place, with a quaint waterfront area and an undeniably English feel. Filled with museums and art galleries, castles, landmarks, gardens and zoos, Victoria’s attractions invite you into a world of history, entertainment and colour. Victoria’s population of 325,000 occupies a tiny island, one-fifth the size of England – but far more wild. Vigo Spain Spain’s busiest fishing port, Vigo, sits on the rugged west coast of the province of Galicia, with the best view of the town being from the fort (Castillo del Castro) built on the hill overlooking the harbour. Walking through the steep, narrow streets of the old town (Barrio del Berbes) you can see (and smell) the daily fish market. Why not join an excursion to the nearby historic fishing village of Bayona? Stroll through the streets of the old quarter and enjoy delicious tapas at the Talaso Atlantico Spa Hotel. From Vigo you can also visit the beautiful medieval city of Santiago de Compostela, with its stunning cathedral centrepiece.
Volos Greece Modern Volos is built on the ancient cities of Demetrias, Pagasae and Iolkos. Iolkos was the homeland of Jason who boarded the ship Argo accompanied by the Argonauts and sailed in the quest for the Golden Fleece to Colchis. To the west of Volos there are the neolithic settlements of Dimini with a ruined acropolis, walls and two tombs dated between 4000-1200 BC and Sesklo with the remains of the oldest acropolis in Greece (6000 BC), as well as the foundations of a palace and mansions from the neolithic civilisation. From Volos you can also cross the planes of Thessaly to reach Meteora where a whole collection of monasteries sit atop soaring rock spires.
Warnemunde Germany The popular German seaside resort of Warnemunde is your gateway to all things Hanseatic, which means a fascinating tour through living medieval history. Nearby Rostock still emanates some of its former glories as a major Hanseatic city. Its pedestrianised old town is full of narrow atmospheric streets, cutting between impressive centuries-old buildings. City Hall, in the New Market Place, is particularly impressive, but the 15th century St. Marien Church, with its astronomical clock, is Rostock’s true focal point.
Villefranche France The steeply terraced streets of this pretty fishing village, set against a densely wooded backdrop, create a delightfully timeless picture. Despite its increasing popularity with visitors, Villefranche remains a small, relatively uncrowded resort with plenty of Gallic charm. Along a maze of cobbled streets, you will find chic boutiques and a choice of cafés and restaurants. Alternatively, walk along the seafront to a long narrow beach which curls around the bay. Villefranche is a convenient base from which to explore the French Riviera and Cote d’Azur and the medieval villages of Eze and St Paul-de-Vence.
Waterford Ireland Established in 914 AD by the Vikings, Waterford is Ireland’s first city. This walled city retains much of its medieval character and the boundaries of the 10th century settlement can be seen in The Viking Triangle. In the city, Reginald’s Tower is the most historic urban medieval monument in Ireland and the oldest monument to retain its Viking name. In fact, many believe it was the first building in Ireland to use mortar. Today, Waterford is known for Waterford Crystal, manufactured in the city since 1783, a history which is celebrated at the impressive visitor’s centre in the heart of the city.
Visby Sweden A small but perfectly formed Hanseatic town, Visby is often evocatively described as the ‘town of roses and ruins’. This popular Swedish port was once a Viking trading post but it later developed into the Baltic’s main Hanseatic centre between the 12th and 14th centuries. More than 200 warehouses and wealthy merchants’ stone dwellings from that time remain within its two-mile long medieval walls, making it the best-preserved fortified commercial settlement in northern Europe and earning it World Heritage site status. From these, it is only a stroll through rose-scented alleyways to the lovely botanical gardens.
Whittier Alaska Whittier is a small town of about 400 residents located on the edge of Prince William Sound and is bordered by rocky shores, rainforests, and glaciers. It’s also the portal to Anchorage – Alaska’s vibrant, eclectic and frontier-spirited metropolis. Wedged between the two arms of Cook Inlet and the imposing Chugach Mountains, this sprawling city, Alaska’s largest, is located in the heart of the great Alaskan wilderness. Nearby you’ll find North America’s highest peak, Mt. McKinley, and the massive Denali National Park. Yakutat Bay Alaska Located on the scenic Gulf Coast of Alaska, and abutting the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Yakutat Bay is the only sheltered deep-water port in the Gulf of Alaska. Numerous glaciers and glacial ice fields surround the Yakutat Bay area, but the best known glacier in the area is Hubbard Glacier. This giant, 6-mile wide, 300-foot tall slab of ice at the edge of Yakutat Bay stretches a staggering 76 miles inland to the slopes of Mount Logan, Canada’s tallest peak. The glacier is so big that you can see it as you enter the bay – 30 miles away.
Yalta Ukraine A mixture of medieval and modern history makes Ukrainian Yalta one of the most stimulating calls on any Black Sea itinerary. Its medieval past literally stares you in the face with the imposing and turreted Swallow’s Nest castle overlooking the port, but there’s nothing quite like a visit to the White Palace of Livadia to evoke memories of one of the most important events in modern history. Built in Italian Renaissance-style for Tsar Nicholas II in 1911, this was where Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill met towards the end of World War II to draw up their controversial map of post-war Europe. Zadar Croatia Dating back to the 9th century BC, this picturesque historical resort is the capital of Dalmatia and until recently, remained largely a forgotten city. Surrounded by the azure Adriatic on three sides, Zadar old town is set on a narrow peninsular and has preserved the old network of narrow and charming city streets. Fortified with 16th century medieval walls built by the Venetians, the old town contains Roman ruins from its days as a Roman colony. Interestingly, the symbol of the city – the circular church of St. Donat – is built on top of the old Roman forum. Two of the ancient pillars are built into the church and the church floor has been removed to show the original forum stone work. Zakinthos Greece Call it Zakinthos or Zante, this most southerly of the Ionian chain is still one of the most ruggedly beautiful of all the Greek islands. Springs run down from the mountains and the flat plains feed an abundance of wild flowers. There are also lovely sandy beaches tucked away in hidden coves, some only reachable by boat. The main town of Zakinthos, is typically Greek with startlingly white houses and bar after bar along the harbour front. It was destroyed by an earthquake 50 years ago and, although it has a couple of good museums (including one on Greek literature), you have to travel inland to find historic sites such as the Venetian fortress, thought to have been built within the walls of a long-gone acropolis.
Zihuatanejo Mexico Full of life and beautiful scenery, Zihuatanejo (pronounced zee-watt-a-neh-ho) has retained its charm as a small, sleepy fishing village. Dotted with golden, sandy beaches and surrounded by warm, calm waters, this is the perfect place to relax with a frozen margarita and soak up the sun. Heading away from the beach, you may wish to soak up the authentic atmosphere as you stroll down the cobbled streets of the village. For a real taste of Mexico, a trip to the farmers market is a must. The downtown area of El Centro is also great for souvenir shopping, as is the promenade, Paseo del Pescador. A trip to the neighbouring resort of Ixtapa is also worth a visit, with its vast tropical gardens and marina.
229
AZURA
P&O CRUISES Family & Share Savers and Single Supplements Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Families and Singles
A107 A108
If you’re travelling with children or independently this is the information you will need to calculate your fare. For further information on Family and Share Saver reductions see page 232, and for single supplement information see page 237.
VENTURA Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
N106
60%
£49
50%
50%
N127
50%
£499
40%
60%
N107
90%
FREE
80%
50%
N127A
50%
£549
40%
60%
N108
60%
£49
50%
60%
N128
50%
£599
40%
60%
N109
60%
£99
50%
60%
N128A
50%
£599
40%
60%
N110
90%
FREE
80%
50%
N129
50%
£599
40%
60%
N111
90%
FREE
80%
50%
N129A
50%
£599
40%
60%
N112
90%
FREE
80%
60%
N130
50%
£599
40%
60%
N113
90%
FREE
80%
60%
N130A
50%
£599
40%
60%
N114
90%
FREE
80%
70%
N131
40%
£599
30%
60%
N115
90%
FREE
80%
50%
N131A
40%
£599
30%
60%
N116
90%
FREE
80%
60%
N132
30%
£699
20%
60%
N117
60%
£199
50%
50%
N132A
30%
£699
20%
60%
N118
55%
£199
45%
60%
N201
50%
£599
40%
60%
N119
40%
£199
30%
50%
N201A
50%
£599
40%
60%
N120
40%
£299
30%
50%
N202
50%
£599
40%
60%
N121
40%
£199
30%
50%
N202A
50%
£599
40%
60%
N122
40%
£299
30%
50%
N203
50%
£599
40%
60%
N123
90%
FREE
80%
60%
N203A
50%
£599
40%
60%
N124
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
N204
50%
£599
40%
60%
N125
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
N204A
50%
£599
40%
60%
N126
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
N205
50%
£499
40%
60%
N205A
50%
£449
40%
60%
OCEANA
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
60%
£49
50%
60%
£149
50%
50%
A125
50%
£599
40%
60%
60%
A125A
50%
£599
40%
A109
60%
£49
60%
50%
60%
A126
50%
£599
40%
A110
90%
60%
FREE
80%
70%
A126A
50%
£599
40%
A111
60%
90%
FREE
80%
70%
A127
50%
£599
40%
60%
A112
90%
FREE
80%
60%
A127A
50%
£599
40%
60%
A113
FREE
FREE
FREE
60%
A128
40%
£699
30%
60%
A114
FREE
FREE
90%
60%
A128A
40%
£699
30%
60%
A115
80%
£199
70%
70%
A201
50%
£599
40%
60%
A116
60%
£149
50%
60%
A201A
50%
£599
40%
60%
A117
40%
£299
30%
50%
A202
50%
£599
40%
60%
A118
40%
£399
30%
50%
A202A
50%
£599
40%
60%
A119
40%
£299
30%
50%
A203
50%
£599
40%
60%
A120
90%
FREE
80%
70%
A203A
50%
£599
40%
60%
A121
90%
FREE
80%
50%
A204
50%
£599
40%
60%
A122
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
A204A
50%
£599
40%
60%
A123
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
A205
50%
£599
40%
60%
A124
50%
£499
40%
60%
A205A
50%
£599
40%
60%
A124A
50%
£549
40%
60%
A206
50%
£499
40%
60%
A206A
50%
£449
40%
60%
AURORA
ADONIA
Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
Hol. no.
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
R102
FREE
FREE
FREE
65%
D101
90%
80%
R103
FREE
FREE
FREE
60%
D102
90%
80%
R105
90%
FREE
80%
70%
D103
90%
80%
R106
FREE
FREE
90%
60%
D104
90%
80%
R107
90%
FREE
80%
70%
D105
90%
80%
R108
90%
£99
80%
60%
D106
90%
60%
R109
50%
£249
40%
40%
D107
90%
80%
R110
30%
£399
20%
35%
D108
90%
70%
R111
30%
£399
20%
35%
D109
90%
70%
R112
90%
£199
80%
70%
D110
90%
70%
R113
90%
£199
80%
90%
D111
30%
80%
R115
90%
£199
80%
70%
D112
30%
80%
R116
60%
£299
50%
40%
D113
30%
80%
R117
50%
£75
40%
50%
D114
30%
80%
R118
90%
£199
80%
60%
D115
30%
80%
R119
60%
£199
50%
70%
D201
30%
80%
ORIANA
ARCADIA
Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
Hol. no.
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
X103
50%
£199
40%
50%
J102
FREE
60%
X104
90%
FREE
80%
70%
J103
60%
70%
X105
90%
FREE
80%
70%
JMR
60%
70%
X106
90%
FREE
80%
70%
JMT
60%
70%
Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
Hol. no.
Family savers – 16 and under
Family savers – Infant fare
Share savers – Adult
Single supplement*
E107
50%
£99
50%
50%
E123
60%
£49
50%
50%
X107
90%
FREE
80%
60%
JRX
60%
70%
50%
X108
40%
£99
30%
50%
JTP
60%
70%
50%
X109
90%
FREE
80%
70%
JTY
60%
70%
90%
FREE
80%
80%
JTX
60%
70%
E108 E109
50% FREE
£199 FREE
40% FREE
50% 60%
E124 E125
FREE FREE
FREE FREE
90% 90%
E110
90%
FREE
80%
60%
E126
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
X110
E111
60%
£49
50%
50%
E127
60%
£49
50%
50%
X111
55%
£199
45%
50%
JPX
60%
70%
E112
90%
FREE
80%
60%
E128
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
X112
40%
£399
30%
50%
JYX
60%
70%
E113
90%
FREE
80%
60%
E129
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
X113
40%
£299
30%
50%
J104
90%
60%
50%
X114
40%
£399
30%
50%
J105
90%
70%
50%
X115
60%
£199
50%
50%
J106
90%
70%
90%
FREE
80%
70%
J107
90%
70%
E114 E115
90% 90%
FREE FREE
80% 80%
65% 60%
E130 E131
FREE FREE
FREE FREE
FREE FREE
E116
90%
FREE
80%
70%
E132
50%
£299
40%
50%
X116
E117
90%
FREE
80%
60%
E133
50%
£299
40%
60%
X117
90%
FREE
80%
70%
J108
90%
70%
E118
55%
£199
45%
50%
E201
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
X118
90%
FREE
80%
70%
J109
80%
80%
E119
40%
£299
30%
50%
E202
FREE
FREE
FREE
50%
X119
N/A
N/A
50%
50%
J110
90%
70%
50%
X120
N/A
N/A
80%
60%
J111
FREE
60%
50%
X121
N/A
N/A
50%
50%
J112
FREE
70%
X122
N/A
N/A
40%
70%
J113
FREE
60%
J114
80%
70%
E120 E121 E122
40% 40% 40%
230 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
£199 £299 £199
30% 30% 30%
40% 50% 40%
E203 E204
FREE FREE
FREE FREE
FREE FREE
* Supplements for single occupancy in selected stateroom grades - see page 237 for details
231
P&O CRUISES YOU mIght lIKE tO KnOW
WaYS tO SavE Early Bird Savings – The maximum saving available is shown in the fare grid for each cruise and we have set aside a number of staterooms of every type with the maximum saving. Once these have been sold, the Early Bird Saving may reduce or be withdrawn. Since our Early Bird Savings are likely to reduce and since fares may rise, it really does pay to book early. Please note that the Early Bird Savings only apply to the cruise holidays as detailed on the itinerary pages of the brochure. Early Bird Savings do not apply to infant fares. Prices shown within the fare tables are per adult and are based upon the lowest available grade within the specified stateroom type. Other grades are available within the specified stateroom type at a higher price. You will find full details of all grades available within the relevant deck plans (pages 170-211). For full details of pricing please contact your travel agent, or call us direct on 0845 3 555 333 or visit our website at www.pocruises.co.uk. We reserve the right to adjust fares at any time. Please note that the fares for all cruises will go up on 1 December 2010 when the second edition of the P&O Cruises 2011 brochure is published. Seasonal Savers – There are 20 Seasonal Saver cruises, on which you can take advantage of Double Early Bird Savings. The maximum saving is shown within the fare grids. Family Savers – If you’re travelling with children or teenagers our Family Savers on Aurora, Azura, Oceana, Oriana and Ventura offer generous reductions – or in some cases free places for children – utilising the extra beds that are contained in a number of staterooms (Oriana will become exclusively for adults from 30 Nov 2011 – cruise X119). In twin staterooms these extra beds are upper pullman berths (except for Aurora grades OA, KA, JB, IA and IB where they are sofa beds) and in deluxe staterooms, superior deluxe staterooms, mini-suites and suites these are sofa beds. To calculate the family fare, the first two occupants pay the adult fare for the grade concerned minus the early bird saving and then deduct the Family Savers reduction for a child/teenager (aged 2 to 16). The Family Savers reductions can be found on page 230. This does not apply to AE grade Suites on Azura and Ventura which are based on 4 full paying adult passengers. Aurora, Azura, Oceana, Oriana and Ventura have a number of staterooms that can accommodate a travel cot for an infant aged over 6 months and under 2 years. In these cases you pay the rates shown in the information shown on pages 230-231 regardless of your chosen stateroom grade. There are limited infant/child and teen places available on all cruises. It is advisable to book as soon as possible if intending to take advantage of the Family Savers offer, as only a limited number of these extra beds are available for use by children on each cruise. Please note no Family Savers are given on the first two occupants or on single occupancy and we regret that we are unable to carry babies under the 232 WWW.POCRUISES.CO.UK
age of 6 months (one year for Aurora cruises R102, R108, R113 & R118, Azura cruises A124/A and A206/A, Oceana cruise E201, Oriana cruise X117 and Ventura cruises N127/A, N205/A).Family Savers do not apply on Arcadia or Adonia, our ships exclusively for adults. Share Savers – A number of staterooms contain extra beds and if three or four adults book as a party and share one of these staterooms, then our Share Savers can save you money. In twin staterooms these extra beds are upper pullman berths or sofa beds. You’ll find further details in the deck plans (pages 170-211). An asterisk on the deck plans shows the grades at which some staterooms have extra beds. The first two adults pay the adult fare and for the third and fourth person in an extra bed you deduct the Share Savers reduction after the Early Bird Saving has been deducted from the fare for the grade concerned. It is, however, advisable to book early, as only a limited number of these extra beds will be available for sale on each cruise. Please note that only a limited number of staterooms will be available for Family Savers and Share Savers. Once this number has been reached Family and Share Savers will still be possible but at a higher fare or reduced level of saving. group Savers – For details of special arrangements we can provide for groups of all types – from clubs and associations to corporate incentives and conferences – see your travel agent or call us for more information. Combination Savers – Take two or more consecutive cruises to enjoy an extended holiday and our Combination Savers will give you a 10% reduction on the combined adult fare after the Early Bird Saving has been deducted. These Combination Savers do not apply to either cruise if one or both of the cruises are of 4 nights or less in duration, a world voyage or part of a world voyage including Arcadia’s Grand Alaskan Adventure. On board spending money – Book any cruise from this brochure (of 7 nights and over) and you can enjoy fantastic on board spending money the amount varying by stateroom type and cruise duration. On a 14 night Mediterrenean holiday, book an inside cabin and enjoy on board spending money of £50 per couple, or enjoy £300 per couple if you book a suite. This can be spent on shore excursions, drinks, in the spa or in the shops. On board spending money applies to the first two passengers sharing a stateroom, is not transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. On board spending money amount may vary between brochure editions. holiday package add-ons – The prices for the Adonia and Arcadia fly-cruise holidays shown in this brochure are cruise-only, and a price for a holiday package add-on option is given at the bottom of each fare table. Holiday package add-ons include: • International economy flights to/from Gatwick or Manchester for Adonia and to/from London for Arcadia.
• Government fees and taxes • All overseas transfers between airport and ship on the dates specified We’d recommend that you take this option to ensure that you arrive at the ship on time and get home as promptly as possible. We’ve used our expertise to make the holiday package add-on as efficient and competitive as possible, but we’ve left you the freedom to make your own arrangements if you prefer. Please note that you can only opt for the full holiday package add-on, taking flights and transfers to and from your destinations. If you do not take the holiday package add-on, any flights you take will not be covered by our ATOL protection. You will also need to ensure that you leave sufficient time in each case to reach the ship at least 2 hours before the departure time stated on your tickets. Please note that savings do not apply to holiday package add-ons. The holiday package add-on option is subject to availability and flight dates and prices may change from those shown. Please see the notes on page 234 which apply to all flights. Portunus Club cruises – We are delighted to offer members of our loyalty club, The Portunus Club, an additional 5% saving on selected cruises marked with this symbol . The Portunus Club 5% saving will apply after the Early Bird Saving has been deducted. This is an additional reduction irrespective of the level of Early Bird Saving discount. The 5% saving does not apply to the holiday package add-on and is only combinable with selected offers.
FamIlIES Restrictions on where children can go on board – We would ask parents and/or guardians to remember that there are other passengers on board and for this reason a few of the lounges and public rooms are ‘out of bounds’ to passengers under 16. Please note that passengers under the age of 18 must travel with a parent or companion over the age of 21 and that we are unable to carry babies under the age of six months (one year for Aurora cruises R102, R108, R113 & R118, Azura cruises A124/A and A206/A, Oceana cruise E201, Oriana cruise X117 and Ventura cruises N127/A, N205/A) Children in swimming nappies are not allowed to use the main pools but may use the paddling pools under the supervision of their parents or guardian. We also ask parents and guardians to note that children under 16 must not be left unaccompanied on the ship whilst at a port of call. (Oriana will become exclusively for adults from 30 Nov 2011 – cruise X119)
lUggagE On cruises sailing from and returning to Southampton, you can bring as many bags as you can comfortably fit into your stateroom. Just bear in mind that each piece of luggage should weigh no more than 23kg (20kg if travelling on an Eavesway coach) for handling purposes. On fly-cruises the baggage restriction will also be 23kg per person. On scheduled international flights the baggage restrictions vary between 2023kgs per person. Please confirm with your air carrier. For cruises of 3 nights and under, you will be asked to carry your own luggage on board (although we will of course provide assistance if required).
mOnEY mattERS Items not included in your holiday fare The all-inclusive nature of our holidays ensures you can enjoy exceptional value for money. In addition to this, there are a few little luxuries that you can choose to purchase whilst you are on board. • Coffee and drinks in the bars, all drinks and wines in the restaurant and in your stateroom, cigarettes and tobacco • A range of health & beauty treatments and facilities • Purchases in the on board shops • Select Dining (a small cover charge applies) • Telephone calls, faxes, internet access (where applicable), emails and Interactive TV services • Optional entertainment including art and craft materials, golf lessons and souvenir programmes. • Tips at the end of your cruise • Local taxes - Some destinations may impose local taxes whilst we are in port. All prices on board will be displayed exclusive of this tax and will be charged and itemised on your on board account, information about applicable taxes will be provided to you on board. Paying for purchases on board For your convenience we operate a ‘cash free’ system where you simply sign for all purchases using your Cruise Card, which is provided at check-in. As is standard, we will register your credit card at check-in. You can use a MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Diners Club or Visa Delta/Debit card. We are unable to accept Switch/Maestro, Solo, Visa Electron card or Pre Paid Credit Cards. Whilst you are on board your daily spend will be authorised at close of business each day with your card provider. These authorisations remain on your card for up to 28 days. On your return home, you may wish to contact your card provider to clear any outstanding authorisations so as not to affect your credit limit. We recommend that you contact your card provider prior to your holiday so that they are aware of the change in your spending profile and that you will be travelling abroad. This will help ensure that you have no problems with authorisation when on board or spending ashore in a foreign port. Should you wish to settle your account with cash, you can do so once on board however, a credit card must still be registered when you check-in. If a card is not registered then your account will need to be kept in credit in order for you to continue charging. Please note that we are unable to accept personal cheques. If you are travelling on a consecutive cruise, you
must settle your on board account at the end of each individual cruise. Obtaining foreign currency You will be able to obtain suitable foreign currency for most ports of call on board. This can be purchased using cash. We regret we are unable to accept personal cheques, traveller’s cheques or Pre Paid Credit cards as payment for foreign currency. You are able to purchase foreign currency using your on board account. You can re-exchange your foreign currency, but only in the denominations sold on board (subject to on board exchange rates). We are unable to accept foreign coins. All foreign currency transactions are converted using Pounds Sterling. Please note that, as part of the fight against terrorism, international crime and money laundering, EU regulations require all passengers entering or leaving the European Union with €10,000 or more in cash (or its equivalent in other currencies or easily convertible assets – e.g. bonds, shares, traveller’s cheques etc.) to declare the sum to the customs authorities of the Member State which he/she is entering or leaving. If you are likely to need to make a declaration under this regulation please contact the HM Revenue & Customs National Advice Service on 0845 010 9000 or visit www.hmrc.gov.uk for further information on how to comply.
gOIng aShORE Information about the ports In some countries we’ve listed the main destination in the itinerary and shown the port in brackets e.g. Cork (from Cobh). In these circumstances we take you to the port advertised and then offer shore excursions to reach the main destination. Where the ship berths some distance from the port centre, passengers who wish to go ashore independently will usually find local public transport connections and private taxis close to the ship. At certain ports, taxis may not be available close to the ship and public transport connections may not be accessible on foot. Depending on the local circumstances, we will arrange for a bus service between the ship’s berth and a reasonably convenient location close to the port entrance. Where these services are chargeable, tickets will be available for sale on board. In some cases the bus fare is payable directly to the coach operator upon boarding. getting from ship to shore Wherever possible, your ship will dock at a quayside allowing you to come and go as you please via the ship’s gangway. Sometimes, in smaller ports, the ship will anchor at sea and tenders will offer a free and frequent service ashore, such ports are represented by h symbol. Depending on the number of people wishing to go ashore, you can normally expect to be ashore about an hour after the time of arrival. The t symbol indicates ports that we usually berth alongside but at which, in exceptional circumstances, we may need to anchor the ship at sea. While the ship is in port, naturally the restaurants, bars and other facilities (except the shops) are available.
time in port The time the ship will be in port will vary from cruise to cruise and port to port. For each cruise in this brochure we have indicated under each port whether our port call will be a morning, an afternoon, a full day or longer. In this summary you will find a guide to how long the ship will usually be in port in each case. morning – A morning call will be a minimum of 4½ hours and a maximum of 6½ hours with the ship usually arriving between 8am and 9am and normally departing between 1pm and 2pm. afternoon – An afternoon call will be a minimum of 4½ hours and a maximum of 6½ hours with the ship usually arriving between midday and 2pm and normally departing between 5pm and 7pm. Full Day – Normally a full day call will be a minimum of 7 hours and a maximum of 10½ hours with the ship generally arriving between 7am and 10am and departing between 4pm and 6.30pm. However in certain cases where the main destination is further away than normal from where the ship calls (eg Cairo), the call will be longer – up to 15 hours. Full Day & Evening – A full day call with an evening in port will be around 15 hours with the ship usually arriving between 7am and 8.30am and normally departing between 11pm and midnight. Full Day & morning – A full day call with an overnight and following morning in port will be around 28 hours with the ship usually arriving between 8am and 9am and departing between midday and 1pm the following day. afternoon & Evening – A minimum call of 9½ hours and a maximum of 11 hours with the ship usually arriving between 12.30pm and 2pm and normally departing between 11pm and midnight. afternoon & Full Day – A minimum call of 27 hours and a maximum of 29 hours with the ship usually arriving between 1pm and 2pm and normally departing the following day between 5pm and 6pm. two Full Days – A minimum call of 33 hours and a maximum call of 35 hours with the ship usually arriving between 7am and 8am and normally departing the following day between 5.30pm and 8pm. Please note that the timings given above are guidelines only and the actual times may vary. We will provide you with information on board so you are able to stay informed about our estimated times of arrival and departure each day. In addition to the above call timings, there are occasions where our ships cruise past scenic points such as cruising in fjords, off the North Cape or through the Panama Canal. In these cases we have given an approximate time of day that we would expect this to take place. Destination safety The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel Advice Unit may have issued information about your holiday destination. You are advised to check this information on BBC2 Ceefax page 470 onwards, on the internet under the address: www.fco.gov.uk/ knowbeforeyougo, or by telephone on 020 7238 4503/4504. Alternatively, you can contact the ABTA Information Department on 0901 2015050 (calls are charged at 50p per minute). 233
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tRavEl aRRangEmEntS FOR FlY-CRUISES For cruises N127/A, A124/A and D111 where you sail from Southampton and fly back to the UK, we offer a complimentary coach service from the designated airports to Southampton on embarkation day so that you can park at the airport and your car will be awaiting you on your return. For cruises N205/A. A206/A and D201 where you fly to the ship and sail back to Southampton, we offer a complimentary coach service from the cruise terminal back to your airport of departure on disembarkation day. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. To book see your travel agent or call us. Please note these may not be Eavesway operated services. For all fly-cruises in this brochure excluding holidays on pages 162-167, we’ll arrange dedicated charter flights using aircraft of reputable carriers such as Thomas Cook Airlines and Thomson Airways. On all cruises we offer flights from London Gatwick and Manchester and on our Caribbean fly-cruises to either Birmingham or East Midlands, as well as from various regional airports. You’ll find details of these airports on the relevant cruise pages. Flights to Barbados normally depart the UK in the morning and arrive the same afternoon, whilst inbound flights are overnight departing in the afternoon and arriving in the UK the following morning. If you are travelling to the Caribbean/Mexico you may be required to complete an ESTA application – refer to your flight notification for details. (Please see page 235 for further details on ESTA). We’ll send you provisional flight timings 10-12 weeks before you travel. All flight times are approximate and subject to change. P&O Cruises has no control over changes airlines may make to flight times but will inform you of any changes. Premium seat upgrades You can upgrade to a premium seat on a number of our Caribbean charter flights from £199 per person return. For transatlantic cruises we offer upgrades at a cost of £99 per person one-way. Benefits include larger, more comfortable seats. Upgrades to premium seats are subject to availability, must be purchased on a roundtrip basis where available, and are not always offered on all of our UK regional departures. If premium seats are withdrawn from a particular flight for any reason, the upgrade supplement for that flight sector will be refunded in full. For further information please contact our Flights Department on 0845 3 555 333. Scheduled flight alternative If you would prefer to take a scheduled economy flight, our Flights Department can arrange flights to/from Barbados at a supplement from £379 per person one-way or £699 per person return. They will also be happy to provide a quote on your preferred carrier for upgrades to premium economy, business or first class. Scheduled flights are subject to availability and from/to London only
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and, depending on flight schedules, it may be necessary to arrange overnight hotels before or after your cruise at your own expense. You will need to check-in and collect your own baggage however, we will provide transfers to/from the ship at no extra cost. all flights – please note a) Airlines reserve the right to refuse travel on medical grounds. You must notify us of any medical conditions or other requirements for airport assistance (only available after check- in) or special arrangements on your flight. You may be required to provide additional information to the airline in order that they can assess your fitness to fly. Several airlines are unable to carry passengers who require oxygen during part or all of the flight. If you do have this requirement then advance arrangements need to be made at additional cost. b) If you have any special dietary requirements including child meal requests, please advise us at the time of booking or at least 7 days prior to travel. We are unable to guarantee that all requests can be met. c) Only fully fit and mobile passengers may occupy exit row seats. These seats may therefore only ever be assigned at the discretion of the airline at check-in. d) Due to the configuration of the aircraft, it may not always be possible to obtain seats together. e) All flights are non-smoking. f) All flight times, air carriers and flight routings are subject to change. Flights will not necessarily be direct or non-stop. P&O Cruises will inform you of any changes. g) P&O Cruises will determine the city airport i.e. for London, either Heathrow or Gatwick may be used. Where a choice of UK departure airports is offered, this is subject to availability. h) Please note that air credits are not applicable to passengers booking consecutive cruises during our fly-cruise season or those not taking our flights. i) Seats can be pre booked online on selected charter flights at approximately 12 weeks before departure. Visit www.pocruises.co.uk and select Cruise Personaliser. All other seats will be allocated by the airline at check-in. j) When you or your Travel Agent make a booking on a P&O Cruises Caribbean fly-cruise, your confirmation may show a UK air city called ‘QQQ’. This is because we have not finalised our flying arrangements at the time of your booking and cannot give details of the specific UK air city for your flights. A booking with ‘QQQ’ means that you have a confirmed booking including flights, and all people booked under the same booking reference will be allocated the same flights. However, we cannot guarantee that this will be the case for each reference with a group party. The UK air city allocated could be any of the UK air cities we have available for that particular cruise. You will be notified of your specific UK air city at least 7 days prior to departure. P&O Cruises will do its best to
allocate a UK air city of your preference, but this cannot be guaranteed. Parking at the airport Details of airport parking facilities will be sent to you 2-3 weeks before travel. hotel stays before flights If you are flying from London Gatwick and have a long journey to the airport, we can arrange an overnight hotel stay for the night before your flight, from £119 per room. If you would like to take this option, please let us know at the time of booking. Information on Manchester hotels is available on request. Hotel bookings are subject to availability, no refunds can be given for cancellation within 7 days of your stay and the price excludes breakfast and transfers. PaSSPORtS anD vISaS If you are a British Citizen, a full passport is required. If you DO NOT HOLD A BRITISH CITIZEN PASSPORT, your passport travel documentation/ visa requirements may be different. You should check with your travel agent or our preferred visa supplier, TLCS Global Services, on 0845 899 7214, to ensure you have the correct documentation. The following passport and visa information is for British Citizens only. You will need to have 6 months validity in your passport after your date of return (especially for Norway, Russia, and the USA) and we would recommend that you have some blank pages in your passport for entry stamps. Children will need their own passports. If you are applying for a new passport, please leave adequate time to action your application. Please be aware that if you are applying for your first British Citizen passport, you may now be required to attend interviews prior to the passport being issued. For this reason, we would advise all passengers in this situation to allow a minimum of six weeks to obtain their passports. For further information, please contact the Identity and Passport Service Adviceline on (+44) 0300 222 00 00 or visit the website at www.direct.gov.uk or email info@passport.gov.uk. Please note British Visitor Passports are no longer valid. British Subject* passport holders requirements may differ: please ensure you obtain the necessary documentation. Russia (including St Petersburg) If you are participating in an organised P&O Cruises shore excursion, we will arrange a group visa to cover you for the duration of your excursion: all passengers must bring a photocopy of the photograph/personal details page of your passport. If you intend to go ashore independently in Russia, a Russian visa is required. Russian visas can be obtained from the Russian Embassy or a visa service of your choice. To apply for a Russian Tourist Visa, you must possess a visa support letter to accompany your application. Full details will be sent to you approximately 5 weeks prior to departure.
United States of america (including territories) If issued before 26 October 2005 your passport must be machine-readable. A British passport is machine-readable when there are two lines of letters, numbers and chevrons (<<<<<<) printed across the long edge of the personal information page (the page with the photograph and personal details). The machine-readable text will appear on a white strip on older passports and directly on the page on newer passports. If there are no such lines of text on the personal information page, the passport is not machine-readable.
that visa for the purpose it was issued, and will not be required to apply for an ESTA. As part of your ESTA application, you will be required to provide biographical data including name, birth date, and passport information. You must complete all fields marked as mandatory, but you may ignore any fields which are not.
If your passport was issued between 26 October 2005 and 26 October 2006 then it must have a digitally applied photograph (a digital photo is one that is printed on the page, not a photo that is glued or laminated into the passport). At the time of printing this information, any passport that is issued on or after 26 October 2006 must be biometric if used to travel to the United States. If your passport is issued after this date and is machine readable but not biometric, you will need to obtain a full US visa.
An a pproved E STA t ravela uthorisation i s: * Valid for up to two years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first * Valid for multiple entries into the United States * Not a guarantee of admissibility to the United States at a port of entry. ESTA approval only authorises a traveller to board a carrier for travel to the United States under the VWP. In all cases, CBP officers make admissibility determinations at our ports of entry. (For additional information, please visit “Know Before You Go” at http://www.cbp.gov/ xp/cgov/travel/travel_news.)
British Citizen passports issued at embassies overseas may not be machine readable or biometric. All nationals or citizens of eligible countries who plan to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) must obtain ESTA approval prior to travel. Please be aware that you must obtain your ESTA approval prior to leaving home as authorisation of applications can take up to 72 hours. There are no facilities available at check-in to process ESTA applications. Please note that you are unable to enter the United States under the VWP unless you have already obtained ESTA approval prior to travel. Obtaining ESTA approval, for most travellers, is easy. At the time of going to press ESTA can be obtained free of charge from https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov but the US authorities reserve the right to impose a charge. A third party, such as a relative or Travel Agent, is permitted to submit an ESTA application on behalf of a VWP traveller. Please do not use any other website as they may charge you a higher fee for the same service. Please ensure you bring your ESTA approval code or copy of the authorisation. This will assist you at embarkation.
You will also be required to answer VWP eligibility questions regarding communicable diseases, arrests and convictions for certain crimes, and past history of visa revocation or deportation, among others.
If you do not receive an ESTA approval you may be denied boarding, experience delays, or be denied admission at a US port of entry. Having obtained ESTA approval, international travellers, who are nationals of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries, may enter the USA without a visa after completing a US Department of Justice Form I-94W. You may check to see if you are eligible for this programme, or obtain further information, by visiting the US Embassy website in the UK at http://www.usembassy.org.uk or by contacting them on 090 4245 0100 (premium call rate). * These are mostly people who were born in British India before 01/01/49 and did not become citizens of India, or who were citizens of Eire and British subjects before 01/01/49 and have made a claim to retain British Subject status. You are able to check your status on your passport information page to the right of the picture.
For all other nationalities, we strongly recommend you check to see if you are eligible for this program by visiting the US Embassy website http://www. usembassy.org.uk. If you are not eligible for this program, you should contact the US consulate or embassy to confirm your individual visa requirements. British Subject* passport holders are required to obtain a full US visa prior to travel.
When joining the ship in the United States, US Immigration requires passengers to provide us with certain immigration details no later than 90 minutes before the ships’ scheduled departure time. Failure to do so will result in denied boarding. This information may be provided to us at check-in so long as this is done no less than 90 minutes prior to departure. We would prefer to have this information in advance and therefore ask you to submit these details on-line by visiting www.pocruises.co.uk, selecting ‘Cruise Personaliser’.
The ESTA travel authorisation is not a visa. It does not serve in lieu of a US visa when a visa is required under US law. Individuals that possess a valid visa will still be able to travel to the United States on
tripoli, libya At the time of writing, there are some specific requirements for calls into Libya but these are subject to change. Confirmed details will be sent to
you approximately 8 to 10 weeks prior to departure. You should note though that Libya does not allow entry to Israeli nationals, US citizens or any person with an Israeli stamp in their passport. Canada All British Citizen passport holders will be able to enter Canada without a visa. If you are not in possession of a British Citizen passport, please ensure you check your entry requirements for Canada at www.canadainternational.gc.ca. This will provide you with an up to date list of passport holders that require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for Canada. British Subject passport holders will require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). Schengen visa requirements Non-European passport holders may require a Schengen visa for entry into Continental Europe. Please ensure you check your entry requirements for Europe prior to embarkation. The United Kingdom is not a Schengen State member. British Citizen passport holders will not need to obtain a Schengen visa. vaCCInatIOnS At the time of writing no vaccinations are compulsory for any holiday in this brochure but the Department of Health does however recommend vaccinations for certain countries visited on our cruises. Since these recommendations do change you should check in good time before departure with your GP, or ask your travel agent for a copy of the Department of Health’s leaflet ‘Advice on health for travellers’. Alternatively you can find the location of your nearest MASTA travel medicine clinic at www.masta.org malaria – there is a risk of Malarial transmission in the Dominican Republic and Honduras. We therefore recommend that you seek advice from a Travel Medicine Clinic and, if advised, obtain prophylactic medication before joining: Arcadia cruise J103, JRX, JTP, JTY, JTX, Aurora cruise R118, and Ventura cruises N131/A, N202/A and N203/A mOBIlItY Before making a booking, please familiarise yourself with clauses 18-24 of the Booking Conditions in this brochure (see page 239). You will be pleased to know that all our ships cater for passengers bringing wheelchairs or mobility scooters (referred to collectively in this section as wheelchairs). With lifts and wheelchair accessible routes to all public rooms and the vast majority of deck areas, as well as a number of staterooms adapted for wheelchair users, we aim to make your stay as relaxing and comfortable as possible. If you are planning to bring a wheelchair on board with you, it is essential that you let us know at the time of booking so we can advise you of restrictions on the size and type of wheelchair we accept on board. Any passengers requiring the use of a wheelchair, mobility scooter or walking aid must provide
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their own. For the safety of all our passengers P&O Cruises has introduced size guidelines for all wheelchairs and mobility scooters where a standard (non adapted) stateroom has been booked (these restrictions do not apply to passengers bringing a motorised wheelchair and booked in fully accessible staterooms). For all bookings, scooters must meet the following specifications: Width – no more than 20 inches (51cm); weight – no more than 45 kg total with no component piece to weigh more than 23 kg when disassembled; battery – Gel or Dry Cell only. Part-time wheelchair users who travel in a non-adapted stateroom must bring a collapsible wheelchair. For the safety of the ship and everyone on board, all wheelchairs and other aids to mobility must be stored inside your stateroom when you are not using them. A ship is not always the easiest environment for using a wheelchair. Although our crew are always very helpful, they are unable to assist you in moving around the ship, or in any personal day-to-day tasks. For this reason, we require passengers who use a wheelchair or who require assistance with personal care to be accompanied by a personal assistant/travelling companion to provide these services. mobility ashore – When choosing your cruise please bear in mind that it may not be possible for wheelchair users to get ashore at ports of call. At the majority of ports visited by our ships, we deploy a short ramped low-level gangway, commonly referred to as the ship’s brow, to give all wheelchair users easy access to shore. We do our very best to make sure that all passengers get ashore in as many ports as possible, although there will be times when it is not possible to deploy the ship’s brow. This is normally due to ports with a large tidal range. Some examples of ports with a large tidal range (but not an exhaustive list) are Darwin, Lisbon, Mumbai and San Francisco. At ports where it is not possible to use the ship’s brow, all access to shore will be by a narrow stepped gangway that pivots to take account of the tide, known as the accommodation ladder. When the accommodation ladder is in use, you will need some independent mobility in order to walk down the gangway. Each of our ships carries a wheelchair ‘stair climbing’ machine which where appropriate may be used to allow wheelchair users to go ashore provided they transfer between their own wheelchair and the wheelchair that is fitted to the stair climber at the top and bottom of the accommodation ladder. The stair climber cannot be used with electric wheelchairs – these will need to be taken ashore separately. When the ship is anchored away from the quayside, indicated by the h symbol, and where conditions permit, passengers are taken ashore by the ship’s launches (or ‘tenders’). There is a possibility, in exceptional circumstances, that launches will also be used to get passengers ashore at ports featuring the t symbol. Every effort will be made to offer access ashore via the tenders but you must have some independent mobility in order to step into and out of the tenders. Please note that for health & safety reasons, the crew are unable to lift passengers. We
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will transfer wheelchairs into the tender or onto the quayside as appropriate, provided no individual part of the wheelchair weighs more than 23kg when disassembled. You or your travelling companion will be responsible for assembling and disassembling your wheelchair, but the crew will endeavour to assist where practical and safe to do so. Our shore excursion descriptions set out to offer practical advice based upon our operating experience. We would strongly advise you to read the excursion descriptions to make sure that your chosen excursion is suitable for your individual personal requirements. We use our best efforts to obtain appropriate transport although it is not always possible for us to secure fully accessible vehicles. Please note that due to local conditions, in certain ports of call it may not be possible for us to offer a shore excursion programme that is suitable for passengers who are not able to board a coach via the steps with only the aid of their travelling companion. Please note that taxis are usually available for hire close to the ship’s berth should passengers wish to travel independently. For further information please visit our website at www.pocruises.co.uk/mobility. hEalth & SaFEtY For your own safety and wellbeing, you must be fit and healthy to travel with us and to undertake all associated flights and tours. Naturally there is a well-equipped Medical Centre on every P&O Cruises ship, but our medical facilities aren’t designed for extensive or continuing treatment of pre-existing conditions. So if you have a medical condition that necessitates the use of oxygen, will be taking an oxygen concentrator or cylinders with you, will be bringing electrical medical equipment or medical sharps, or if you require peritoneal kidney dialysis, you must let us know when you make your booking. For the safety and comfort of all passengers we are unable to carry any passengers suffering from a contagious disease (for example measles, chickenpox etc.). Also passengers who normally require assistance in the activities of daily living are advised that they must be accompanied by a fit and able-bodied travelling companion. We regret that we cannot carry passengers who have entered their 24th week of pregnancy or beyond at any point in their cruise. All pregnant women are required to produce a doctor’s or midwife’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health, fit to travel and the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD) calculated from both Last Menstrual Period (LMP) and ultrasound (if performed). In the unlikely event that you or your child requires emergency medical assistance, all our ships have well-equipped Medical Centres on board, supported by qualified doctors. All of our Medical Centres hold the distinction of being the first and only facilities in the industry to be accredited by the prestigious United Kingdom Health Quality Services and certified to ISO9001:2000. Children must be aged one year for Aurora cruises R102, R108, R113 & R118, Oceana
cruise E201, Oriana Cruises X117 and Ventura cruises N127/A and N205A due to the remote itineraries and number of consecutive days at sea. If your health condition as declared at the time of booking changes, you must inform P&O Cruises immediately. Please note that if, in our opinion, you have failed to inform us of any condition which we consider may be harmful either to yourself or any other passenger during the course of your holiday we shall refuse boarding. In addition, failure to disclose any of the specified medical conditions may result in your insurance being invalidated. Smoking on board – For the safety, comfort and enjoyment of all of our passengers, and in view of the UK legislation banning smoking in public spaces, we have reviewed and amended our policy on smoking on board our ships. For all holidays featured in this brochure, smoking will be permitted on balconies and designated areas of the open deck, but is not permitted in staterooms or public rooms. alcohol on board – We have a policy on the responsible serving of alcohol and we reserve the right to confiscate alcohol at the gangway should the need arise. It is not our intention to invoke this policy as a matter of course and we will implement it only on occasions where we consider it is likely that the health, comfort, safety and enjoyment of passengers may otherwise be compromised. Passengers under the age of 18 will not be served alcoholic beverages on board and must not be in possession of alcohol. Passengers may be asked to verify their age. It is prohibited to attempt to purchase alcohol for those under 18 in the bars and shops on board. 16 and 17 year olds may be bought beer, cider or wine to drink with a meal in the restaurants when accompanied by an adult. Alcohol purchased ashore by those under 18 will be confiscated at the gangway. BOOKIng altERatIOnS If you wish to transfer to another cruise, this will generally be treated as a cancellation under clause 38 of the Booking Conditions. P&O Cruises, at its discretion, may allow the transfer without treating it as a cancellation if the P&O Cruises holiday to which the transfer is to be made departs within 12 months (within 6 months in the case of transfer from a world cruise) of the original and is for a higher price. Agreement to transfer a cruise would also be conditional upon such a request being made more than 56 days before the original scheduled departure date; there being availability; and the payment of both an administration charge of £100 and any expenses (such as airline and/ or hotel charges) incurred by P&O Cruises as a result. Such a transfer would only be allowed on one occasion. We reserve the right to change the criteria for allowing transfers at any time without notice. CanCEllatIOnS If you have to cancel your cruise for any reason and had made your cruise booking via a travel agent,
then you must ask your agent to call or write to us immediately to confirm cancellation and return any deposit confirmations or tickets you have received. If you have booked your holiday direct with P&O Cruises then you will need to contact us direct. The cancellation charges which will then apply are shown on page 240 in clause 38 of our Booking Conditions. Depending on the reason for cancellation, you may be able to recover the cancellation charges from your travel insurer. DElaYS Delays to ships and flights, whilst very rare, do occasionally occur. In such situations P&O Cruises, in liaison with its supplier of services where appropriate, will use its best efforts to ensure the comfort of its passengers during the course of any such delay. Depending on the particular circumstances, refreshments, meals and accommodation may be provided as appropriate, subject always to the facilities and services locally available. P&O Cruises aim will always be to minimise the inconvenience of any delays. BROChURE InFORmatIOn The information in this brochure represents P&O Cruises plans and intentions at the time of going to press. Events subsequent to the printing of the brochure may cause us unavoidably to change our plans, which could affect the published itineraries, prices and port taxes. In the event of such changes or alterations, you will be told as soon as reasonably possible, but P&O Cruises gives notice that all information in this brochure is subject to alteration with or without notice. Passengers are carried subject to the conditions of the carriers concerned. You will find P&O Cruises Booking Conditions on pages 239-241. The photography used throughout this brochure depicts typical locations and scenes that may be viewed on a P&O Cruises holiday. Any imagery used may not be a specific representation of what can be seen on that cruise, but may simply reflect the ambience or theme of a location visited. We are able to provide core information about our cruises in alternative formats. If you would like to discuss your requirements please call 0845 3 555 333. Data PROtECtIOn P&O Cruises is a trading name of Carnival plc. Personal information you provide to us in connection with your booking will be processed by Carnival plc in accordance with our Data Protection Policy set out in the Booking Conditions and for marketing purposes as set out below. Carnival plc and other Carnival group companies (including those in the US) may wish to contact you with information and offers from P&O Cruises and other Carnival group cruise brands or for market research purposes. If you prefer not to be contacted please contact us at: Customer Data Department, P&O Cruises, Carnival House, 100 Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1ST.
YOUR FInanCIal PROtECtIOn The fly cruises in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 6294. ATOL protection does not apply to all cruises shown in this brochure. All non-fly cruises sold in the UK are protected by ABTA. Please see our Booking Conditions for more information, and if in doubt ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. aBta mEmBERShIP P&O Cruises is a member of ABTA with membership number V8764. ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA Ltd, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ or go to www.abta.com PROtECtIng thE EnvIROnmEnt We take our environmental responsibilities very seriously and are committed to reducing our environmental impact. We are dedicated to preserving the marine environment in which we operate, and therefore believe it is our duty to introduce environmental practices which set a high standard of excellence and responsibility. To support our aim we have developed an environmental management system independently certified to ISO 14001, which is the most widely recognised global standard for improving environmental performance. We recognise that without appropriate treatment the waste generated on board our ships, together with the fuel and other products we use to transport, feed, entertain and take care of you could have an impact on the environment. Our waste treatment facilities ensure that all waste water is appropriately managed to minimise its impact upon the oceans. All general waste is treated on board to reduce its volume prior to landing ashore, and wherever possible general waste is recycled. We are reducing our air emissions through the implementation of fuel efficiency measures, including improved hull coatings, low energy lamps, increased recirculation of waste heat and improved efficiency in air conditioning, and we continue to explore new technologies. Through these measures and other initiatives P&O Cruises will ensure that we help preserve our environment for future generations. OUR PRICES The fares shown in this brochure are available for sale from 1 September 2010. We reserve the right to vary particulars and prices shown in this brochure after the date of publication. Prices, supplements and special offers advertised in this brochure or elsewhere may be withdrawn or changed. Prices may go up or down. Prices may rise in subsequent editions of this brochure. Regular promotions and discounts from both ourselves and travel
agents mean that savings on the brochure prices are available from time to time, which will vary depending on when the booking is made and the popularity of the dates and itinerary of a particular holiday and other factors. Please contact your travel agent for up to date prices before you book, or call us on 0845 3 555 333, or visit our website at www.pocruises.co.uk gUaRantEES When you or your travel agent come to make a reservation you may be offered the guarantee of a stateroom type, rather than a specific stateroom number. This is because we know from past experience that a small number of passengers will be compelled to cancel their arrangements, thus leaving the accommodation vacant. Accepting a guarantee means that you have a firm booking and can go ahead with your holiday plans in the same way as if you had accepted a specific stateroom number at the outset. When we allocate a stateroom number you can rest assured you will be given a stateroom of the type you have booked, or, in some instances, of a higher rate, though it may be situated on a different deck to that shown on the deck plan for the grade guaranteed. The fare you have been quoted will, however, remain unchanged. SInglE OCCUPanCY In ShaRED StatEROOmS We offer a number of staterooms for single occupancy at an additional supplement to the stateroom rate, as shown on pages 230-231. The following grades will be available for single occupancy: Arcadia DA – OE grades Adonia JA – OD grades Aurora IA – OD grades excluding KA and OA Azura JA – OG grades Oceana JA – OD grades Oriana KB – OD grades Ventura JA – OG grades On all ships other grades may also be sold for single occupancy but at the full fare i.e. twice the fare for the type concerned. The supplement should be added after the saving has been deducted. You should also note that only a limited number of rooms will be available for single occupancy. Once this number has been reached, a limited amount of single occupancy rooms may still be available at a higher fare. StatEROOm ChangES Just occasionally it may be necessary for us to change the stateroom that you have booked. Should this situation occur, you can rest assured we will move you to a higher stateroom type at no extra charge. If you have chosen your booked stateroom for a particular reason – for example a wish to be in a specific position on the ship – and would not want to be considered for a stateroom move, please let us know at the time of booking. Please note that any stateroom moves will be given only at the choice and discretion of P&O Cruises. We will, of course, continue to consider separately any waitlist requests for upgrades for extra payment.
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BOOKIng COnDItIOnS P&O CRUISES
Booking Conditions
Comprehensive Travel Insurance from as little as
£43 for individual cover and £86* for Family Cover *Family cover means 2 adults and an unlimited number of dependant children
Book online at: www.insuretocruise.com/p&ocruises.html Or call the travel insurance booking line now for a personalised quote and instant cover on 0845 230 7136 Under the terms of our booking conditions all passengers travelling with us are required to have valid travel insurance in place. The cover described below has been specially arranged by Preferential Insurance Services Limited (“Preferential”) and underwritten by the United Kingdom Branch of Union Reiseversicherung AG (the “Insurer”). Insurance cover must be purchased within 14 days of booking your cruise. A summary of the cover is shown below. Cover will only commence upon payment of the premium. If you wish to purchase this insurance please contact the Travel Insurance Booking Line on: 0845 230 7136 or if you are calling from outside of the UK +44 (0) 845 230 7136. The Travel Insurance Booking Line is run by Travel Insurance Facilities plc on behalf of the Insurer. This Insurance is only available to EU residents who purchase their cruise and policy in the UK. Please note repatriation will be to your home country. No cover will be provided in your home country.
Summary of Cover Cancellation
Up to Invoice cost
Departure Delay
Up to £20 (after 12 hours delay) Up to £10
Missed Departure
Up to £800
Abandonment
subsequent 12 hours Up to Invoice cost (after delay(Max £100)
Personal Possessions
Up to £1,500
Single Article Limit
Up to £300
Valuables Limit
Up to £300
Delayed Possessions
Up to £100 after 12 Hours
Personal Money
Up to £500
Cash Limit
Up to £250
(f) Been asked to take regular prescribed medications (g) Been referred to a specialist or consultant at a hospital for tests, investigations, diagnosis or treatment? If your answer is ‘YES’ to any of these questions you are required to contact the Travel Insurance Advice Line on 0845 230 7136 (outside the UK: +44 (0) 845 230 7136) either before or immediately after purchasing your cover in order to obtain an additional quotation specifically for your medical conditions. This will ensure that you have full cover in place. All calls are treated in the strictest confidence and any additional agreed terms applicable to your policy will be confirmed in writing. Significant Exclusions Please note the insurance does not provide cover for claims due to psychological or psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders or any diagnosed mental illness or instability. Additionally the policy will not cover you to cancel or cut short your trip due to the recurrence or exacerbation of any pre-existing health condition of a close relative or business associate who is not travelling or not insured on this policy. Change in health Condition If your health or medication changes between purchasing the insurance and travel you are required to call the Travel Insurance Advice Line on 0845 230 7136 (if you are outside of the UK please call +44 (0) 845 230 7136) to notify the change in risk. Before you purchase this insurance your attention must be brought to a number of important aspects: A brief summary of cover available is set out within this panel. Before you commit to the insurance please refer to the Policy of Insurance and Key Facts statement which will be sent to you by the Insurer.
Loss of Documents
Up to £250
Emergency Medical Expenses
Up to £5,000,000
Important Notes
Hospital Benefit/Stateroom Confinement
Up to £50per 24Hours (Maximum £600)
Curtailment
Up to Invoice cost
Personal Liability
Up to £2,000,000
Policy of Insurance This contains the full details of what is and is not covered, and will be sent to you upon purchasing the insurance. Please read it carefully to ensure you understand the cover provided. A specimen copy will be made available prior to purchase upon request, please telephone: 0845 230 7136 (if you are outside of the UK please call +44 (0) 845 230 7136)
Personal Accident
Up to £10,000
Legal Advice and Expenses
Up to £25,000
Excesses You will pay the first £125 (for persons 70 years and over at the date of travel) or £75 (for persons under 70 years at the date of travel) of any claim for Cancellation, Abandonment, Personal Possessions, Personal Money, Emergency Medical Expenses, Personal Liability (increased to £250 when the claim is for damage to property) and Legal Advice and Expenses. Special Notice regarding your health and that of anyone travelling with you whose health may cause you to cancel or cut short your trip: Most travel insurance policies include exclusions for pre-existing conditions. It is important that you read the following questions carefully: Have you, or anyone who is travelling with you, 1. Ever received treatment for: (a) A heart related condition, stroke or hypertension (high blood pressure) (b) A breathing condition (including asthma) (c) Cancer (d) Diabetes2. In the last few years: (e) Been treated for any serious or re-occurring medical condition
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‘Cooling Off Period’ If the insurance does not meet your requirements you may cancel within 14 days of purchase (prior to travel if this is sooner) and, provided no claim has been made, obtain a refund. After this 14-day period insurance premiums are not refundable under any circumstances. On board medical treatment Any passenger who provides proof of purchase of this insurance at the time of seeking medical treatment at the on board medical centre, and who has declared all pre-existing medical conditions, had these accepted and paid any additional premium required, will only be charged up to the applicable insurance excess for treatment for the same condition. Carnival plc will undertake to recover the cost of treatment which exceeds the insurance excess from the Insurer. Emergency medical This is not private medical insurance. This policy only covers treatment of medical conditions in an emergency and which will respond quickly to treatment. It does not cover recurrent or long-term treatment. If shoreside medical attention is required, this treatment will be in a medical facility appropriate to your condition and the treatment required,
and this may be within a state facility as determined by the assistance company. Claims for Personal Possessions This insurance does not provide cover on a ‘new for old’ basis, which means that deductions for age, wear and tear will be made where appropriate. Sums Insured and limits All sections of the insurance have a limit on the amount the Insurer will pay, as described above. Some sections have internal limits such as the amount the Insurer will pay for any one item or personal money. age Reductions/loadings applicable to above Premiums • Children under 2 years of age are entitled to free cover when parents purchase this insurance. • You must give your age and date of birth details at the time of booking otherwise premiums applicable to persons aged over 70 years will be charged. All ages as at the date of travel. • Please note this travel insurance policy does not have an upper age limit, however, the basic rates above are determined by your age at the date of travel. Reasonable Care You are required to take all reasonable care of yourself and your property and to act at all times as though you are not insured. hazardous activities The insurance may not cover you when you take part in certain activities WHERE THERE IS A HIGH RISK OF INJURY. It is likely that all shore excursions booked through Carnival plc are included in the scope of emergency medical and repatriation cover. Please refer to your policy wording. Claims and Complaints The insurance policy contains the procedure which you should follow if you wish to make a claim or a complaint. Please note that your contract of insurance will be with Union Reiseversicherung AG, UK Branch and that Carnival plc will have no responsibility to you for claims or any other liability in connection with the same. Jurisdiction The insurance will be subject to English law unless otherwise agreed in writing. Incorporation Preferential is incorporated in the United Kingdom and Union Reiseversicherung AG is incorporated in Germany. Financial Services authority Preferential Insurance Services Ltd is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). Union Reiseversicherung AG are authorised in Germany by BaFin and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Services Authority. Compensation The insurance policy will be covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. P&O Cruises is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Travel Insurance Facilities plc, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
These are the terms and conditions which will apply to your holiday. Please read them carefully as you will be bound by them. DEFINITIONS 1. In these Conditions and unless the context requires otherwise: “the Contract” means the contract made between P&O Cruises and the Passenger relating to the Package; “Cruise” means the cruise on board the ship as described in the relevant P&O Cruises brochure or other documentation published by or on behalf of P&O Cruises,; “force majeure” means unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond the control of P&O Cruises that P&O Cruises cannot, even with the exercise of reasonable skill and care, provide the Package, or part thereof, including any part of the itinerary, and includes (without limitation) technical problems, war or threat of war, terrorist activity or the threat of terrorist activity, riots, civil commotion, disaster, Act of God, natural and nuclear disaster, fire, closure of ports, strikes or other industrial action, medical problems on board the ship or at intended ports, including, in each case, incidents of infectious or other diseases or illnesses, lawful deviation at sea in response to a distress call or other emergency and adverse weather conditions; “itinerary” means the proposed itinerary as described in the relevant P&O Cruises brochure or other documentation published by or on behalf of P&O Cruises; “Package” means the Cruise and any flights to and from the UK and any pre-cruise and/or post-cruise package which is sold at the same time as the Cruise, but not shore excursions or shuttle services; “the Passenger” means each and every person named in the booking and/or a P&O Cruises ticket; “P&O Cruises” means Carnival plc trading as P&O Cruises; “the price” means the price for the Package as detailed in the confirmation invoice issued by P&O Cruises (excluding shore excursions and any additional charges shown as such in the relevant P&O Cruises brochure or otherwise advertised) and payable by the Passenger under the Contract; “shore excursion” means any excursion offered for sale by P&O Cruises for which a separate charge is payable at the time outside the price whether reserved in the UK prior to the commencement of the Package or purchased on board the ship; “shuttle service” means any transportation service (ferry, bus, coach or minibus) provided by a third party which may (without guarantee) be available to P&O Cruises’ passengers in certain ports; “a significant alteration” means major changes to your cruise; “Supplier(s)” means any company or individual which provides any service forming part of the Package. THE CONTRACT 2. The Contract shall be between P&O Cruises and the Passenger on the basis of these Conditions and the information contained in the brochure, and shall be governed by English law and the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts. 3. By making a booking, the Passenger confirms that all persons named in the booking including minors and persons under disability (and their personal representatives) have agreed to be bound by these Conditions and all other terms of the Contract, and that he/she has their authority to do so on their behalf. 4. All Packages are subject to availability at the time of booking. No Contract shall be made until the deposit (or, where appropriate, the full price) has been paid, whether or not a booking confirmation has been issued, but all money paid to a travel agent shall be treated as having been paid to P&O Cruises. Failure to pay the balance by the due date shall entitle P&O Cruises to cancel the booking and retain the deposit by way of a cancellation charge. Failure to pay any other amount by the due date shall entitle P&O Cruises to cancel the booking and to retain an amount by way of a cancellation charge as set out in clause 38. 5. A Passenger shall not have the right to exclusive occupancy of a stateroom with two or more berths unless the single person supplement is paid. If a cancellation results in a Passenger becoming the sole occupant of a stateroom with two or more berths, he/she shall be liable to pay the single person supplement. If a cancellation reduces the number of Passengers originally booked in a stateroom together, the remaining Passengers shall each be liable to pay any increase in the price arising as the result of such reduction. In the event that all Passengers who are booked in a stateroom permanently disembark the ship before the end of the Cruise, then the stateroom will revert to P&O Cruises’ inventory. 6. For Packages including any flights to or from the UK (and if not already confirmed at the time of booking), P&O Cruises will issue an ATOL confirmation invoice giving the details of the flight arrangements (including UK and destination airports) within a reasonable time after such arrangements are known. 7. Shore excursions are available for separate purchase on board and are arranged by P&O Cruises with local operators. They do not form part of the Contract and are not performed by P&O Cruises. 8. A booking may only be made by a person aged 18 or over. All Passengers who, at the time of departure, will be under 18
years old must be accompanied by a Passenger aged 21 or over who will at all times during the Package be responsible for their welfare, conduct and behaviour. Passengers under 16 years old are not permitted to disembark the ship in any port without a Passenger who is accompanying them on the Package in accordance with this clause. 9. Children aged 6 months or less at the commencement of the Package will be refused permission to board the ship and P&O Cruises shall have no liability whatsoever for any consequences of such refusal. Certain Packages also have prohibitions on children aged 12 months or less. Passengers should check with P&O Cruises before booking. 10. Passengers are responsible for ensuring that they arrive in plenty of time for check in for flights to/from the ship including any interconnecting flights. Passengers are responsible for checking with regard to any delay/cancellation of flights. Passengers must ensure that they have a valid passport and any other necessary travel documents (such as visas) for their Package and should read the relevant section P&O Cruises’ brochure before booking. 11. P&O Cruises may incur a fine if the Passenger fails to comply with all relevant visa or documentation requirements for their Package. P&O Cruises reserves the right to re-charge any such fines to the Passenger. AMENDMENTS TO THE CONTRACT 12. In clauses 12 and 13, “another person” means another person who satisfies all conditions applicable to the Package. A Package may be transferred to another person provided that the Passenger consults with P&O Cruises prior to purporting to transfer the Package (so that, for example, P&O Cruises may require the Package is transferred to someone on its wait list) and P&O Cruises receives the transfer request more than 56 days before the scheduled departure date (more than 90 days in the case of a world cruise). Between 56 (90 in the case of a world cruise) and 14 days (inclusive) before the scheduled departure date and subject to the conditions above, P&O Cruises will normally agree to such a transfer only where the original Passenger will be prevented from travelling by reason of an unavoidable event (such as illness, death of a close relative or jury service) and P&O Cruises may require satisfactory evidence before agreeing to the transfer. All transfers of a Package to another person at any time up to 14 days or more before the scheduled departure date will be subject to an administration charge of £20. 13. Any request for a transfer of a Package to another person which is received by P&O Cruises 13 days or less before the scheduled departure date shall be treated as a cancellation by the Passenger of the Contract and a cancellation charge under clause 38 shall become payable. 14. Any transfer of a Package including any flights will also be subject to any charges imposed by the airline. Passengers should note that airlines may not allow transfers on scheduled flights and that a flight booking may have to be cancelled and rebooked, in which event the re-booking will always be subject to flight availability and to payment of any charges imposed by the airline which may, in some cases, be the full cost of the ticket. 15. If a Passenger wishes to transfer to another Package, this will generally be treated as a cancellation under clause 38. P&O Cruises, at its discretion, may allow the transfer without treating it as a cancellation if the P&O Cruises holiday to which the transfer is to be made departs within 12 months (within 6 months in the case of transfer from a world cruise) of the original and is for a higher price. Agreement to transfer a Package would also be conditional upon such a request being made more than 56 days before the original scheduled departure date (more than 90 days in the case of a world cruise); there being availability; and to payment of both an administration charge of £100 and any expenses (such as airline and/or hotel charges) incurred by P&O Cruises as a result. Such a transfer would only be allowed on one occasion. The criteria for allowing transfers may be changed by P&O Cruises at any time without notice. 16. All such transfers to another Package will be treated as a new booking. Any discount or promotion applicable to the original booking may not apply to the new booking, in which case the Passenger shall be required to pay any difference in price. 17. After a Package has been booked, P&O Cruises will try to accommodate any request for a change (such as a change of stateroom), but such changes are always at P&O Cruises’ discretion and are subject to an administration charge of £20. FITNESS TO TRAVEL 18. The Passenger making the booking represents that all Passengers in the booking are fit to travel. 19. At the time of booking every Passenger is obliged to inform P&O Cruises of any illnesses or physical or mental incapacities which may require special care or assistance. No booking can be accepted for Passengers whose physical or mental conditions would render their participation in the Package impossible or dangerous for the individual concerned or for others, or which
require methods of care or assistance that are impossible or impracticable to provide on board the ship. 20. P&O Cruises reserves the right to require any Passenger to produce medical evidence of fitness to travel on the Package. 21. Passengers who may require special treatment or assistance (including Passengers who use wheelchairs) must advise P&O Cruises in writing before a booking is made. Passengers who use wheelchairs must furnish their own standard size wheelchairs and must be accompanied by a travelling companion fit and able to assist them. Ships’ wheelchairs are available for emergency use only. Further information is contained in the brochure. P&O Cruises reserves the right to refuse passage to any Passenger who has failed to notify P&O Cruises of the need for assistance. 22. P&O Cruises and/or the relevant port authorities shall be entitled to administer a Public Health Questionnaire at any time. All Passengers agree to complete the pre-boarding questionnaire and to supply accurate information regarding any symptoms of illness including but not limited to gastro-intestinal illness. In the interests of health and safety P&O Cruises may deny boarding to any Passenger who has symptoms of any viral or bacterial illness including but not limited to Norovirus. Refusal by a Passenger to complete the relevant pre-boarding questionnaire may in itself result in denied boarding. All cases of denied boarding will be treated as a cancellation attracting 100% cancellation charges in accordance with clause 38. 23. In the event that any viral and/or bacterial illness is diagnosed whilst a Passenger is on board that Passenger may be required to remain in his or her stateroom for reasons of health and safety. In the event that any Passenger refuses to remain in their stateroom during the period recommended by the ship’s doctor then that Passenger may for reasons of health and safety be disembarked by P&O Cruises without any further liability. 24. P&O Cruises may refuse passage to any Passenger who it considers is unfit for travel or whose condition may constitute a danger to themselves or to others, on board the ship or otherwise. See also clauses 25 to 31. PREGNANCY 25. P&O Cruises recommends that women who are less than 12 weeks pregnant should seek medical advice prior to travel. 26. P&O Cruises does not have on board its ships adequate medical facilities for childbirth. Accordingly for reasons of health and safety P&O cruises regrets that it cannot carry Passengers who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy or beyond at any point during their Package. All pregnant women are required to produce a doctor’s or midwife’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health, fit to travel taking into account the proposed itinerary and that the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD) calculated from both the last menstrual period (LMP) and ultrasound (if performed). P&O Cruises cannot accept a booking or subsequently carry a Passenger unless they comply with the requirements of this clause. In the case of a booking by or on behalf of a pregnant Passenger made before it could reasonably have been known that the Passenger would not be able to join the Package by reason of the Passenger entering their 24th week of pregnancy or beyond at any point in their Package, P&O Cruises will refund in full the price paid by or on behalf of that Passenger and the price paid by any accompanying Passenger, provided that the pregnant Passenger notified P&O Cruises as soon as reasonably practicable upon becoming aware that she would not be able to join the Package, but shall otherwise have no liability whatsoever. P&O Cruises expressly reserves the right to refuse passage on board to any Passenger who appears to be in an advanced state of pregnancy and P&O Cruises shall have no liability whatsoever in respect of either such refusal and/or the carriage of any such Passenger. 27. Pregnant Passengers are referred to clauses 29 - 31 headed “Medical Treatment” for information regarding the medical facilities on board. 28. The ship’s doctor is not qualified to deliver babies or to offer pre or post natal treatment and no responsibility is accepted by P&O Cruises in respect of the inability to provide such services or equipment. MEDICAL TREATMENT 29. The Passenger acknowledges that whilst there is a qualified doctor on board it is the Passenger’s obligation and responsibility to seek medical assistance if necessary during the Cruise. 30. The ship’s doctor is not a specialist and the ship’s medical centre is not required to be and is not equipped to the same standards as a land based hospital. The ship carries medical supplies and equipment in accordance with the requirements of its flag state. Neither P&O Cruises nor the ship’s doctor shall be liable to the Passenger as a result of any inability to treat any medical condition as a result. 31. In the event of illness or injury a Passenger may have to be landed ashore for medical treatment. No representations are made regarding the quality of medical treatment at any port of call or at the place at which the Passenger is landed. Medical
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facilities do vary from port to port and no representations or warranties are made in relation to the standard of medical treatment provided by the various hospitals and/or clinics. INSURANCE 32. It is a condition of the Contract that every Passenger must have valid travel insurance (which must include cover for pre-existing medical conditions) in force for the entire duration of the Package. The insurance policy must, as a minimum, include medical and repatriation coverage for not less than £2 million. 33. Wherever possible, P&O Cruises will offer general assistance to any Passenger who suffers illness, personal injury or death during the period of the Package, whether or not arising from an activity forming part of the Package and whether or not the result of fault by any party. 34. Any cost or expense which is reasonably incurred by P&O Cruises for or on behalf of the Passenger in respect of any form of medical, dental or similar treatment, hotel, transportation, repatriation or any other expense shall be repayable by the Passenger to P&O Cruises, whether or not such sum is covered by the Passenger’s travel insurance. PRICES AND EXTRAS 35. All prices are based on costs and exchange rates as at 1 March 2010. P&O Cruises reserves the right to vary particulars and prices shown in the brochure after the date of publication. Prices, discounts, supplements and special offers advertised in the brochure or elsewhere may be withdrawn or changed. Prices may go up or down. Passengers should contact their travel agent for up to date prices and charges before booking, or call us on 0845 3555333, or visit our website: www.pocruises.co.uk. 36. The price of your Package can be varied due to changes in transportation costs such as fuel, scheduled air fares and other airline cost changes which are part of the contract between the airline (and their agents) and P&O Cruises, government action such as changes in VAT or any other government imposed changes and currency changes in relation to an exchange rate variation. In the case of any small variation, an amount equivalent to 2 per cent of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges, will be absorbed for increases but not retained from refunds. For larger variations this 2 per cent will still be absorbed for increases but not retained from refunds. In either case there will be an administration charge of £1 per Passenger, together with an amount to cover agents’ commission. If this means the Passenger has to pay an increase of more than 10 per cent of the price of the Package, the Passenger may cancel the Contract and receive a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges or insurance premiums. No consequential costs or expenses or loss of profits will be payable. P&O Cruises will consider an appropriate refund of insurance premiums paid if the Passenger can show that he/she was unable to transfer or re-use the policy. Should the Passenger decide to cancel for this reason, the Passenger must exercise his right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on the final invoice. Alternatively, the Passenger can accept an offer of an alternative Package if P&O Cruises is able to provide an alternative and transfer payment made in respect of the original Package to the alternative Package. If the cost of the alternative Package is less than the original Package the difference in price will be refundable. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your Package due to contractual and other protection in place. 37. All accounts for on-board services and goods and for shore excursions must be settled in full before the Passenger leaves the ship. In the event that a Passenger fails to settle his on-board account at or before the completion of the Cruise, P&O Cruises shall be entitled to make a reasonable administration charge for the subsequent collection of such sum due in addition to any costs of legal process.
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ALTERATION AND CANCELLATION BY P&O CRUISES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE 40. Whilst P&O Cruises will do its best not to cancel or to make any significant alteration after a booking has been made, it shall nevertheless be entitled at any time prior to departure to cancel the Contract or to change and/or curtail the Package where this reasonably becomes necessary on operational, commercial or other grounds. P&O Cruises will inform the Passenger of any such cancellation or change of Package as quickly as possible (with, where appropriate, written confirmation as soon as reasonably possible thereafter). If P&O Cruises makes a significant alteration to the Package it will inform the Passenger or his travel agent as soon as reasonably possible. The Passenger will have the choice of either accepting the alteration, accepting an offer of an alternative Package of comparable standard if available (P&O Cruises will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value) or cancelling the Package and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. The Passenger recognises and agrees that it will not normally be possible for P&O Cruises to offer an appropriate substitute Package which is available at about the same time as and/or with a similar itinerary to that originally booked, but P&O Cruises will do its best to provide a suitable alternative Package of similar duration and value. The Passenger must notify P&O Cruises of his decision as soon as reasonably possible and in any event not later than 14 days of being informed of the significant alteration. 41. If the Passenger cancels the Package in the circumstances set out in clause 40 or if P&O Cruises cancels the Package, the Passenger shall also be entitled to compensation as follows (except if the change or cancellation is due to force majeure, non-payment by the Passenger or where the minimum number of Passengers required for a Package to proceed is not reached). Period of notification given by Compensation per full fare P&O Cruises paying passenger 56 to 43 days (90 to 43 days in the case of a world cruise & Alaska) 5% cruise credit 42 to 29 days 28 to 15 days 14 to 0 days
10% cruise credit 15% cruise credit 20% cruise credit
42. The value of any cruise credit will be calculated by reference to the price actually paid for the cancelled Package and may only be used for other bookings with P&O Cruises. Any such new booking must be made by no later than 31 December of the year after the date of the original Package. Credit vouchers may be redeemed against the price of the new Package net of any discount available to the Passenger at the time of booking. The compensation set out above does not exclude the Passenger from claiming more if he/she is entitled to do so or from requesting that compensation be provided in a different form. No consequential costs or expenses or loss of profits will be payable.
75% 90%
ALTERATION AND CANCELLATION BY P&O CRUISES AFTER DEPARTURE 43. After departure, P&O Cruises does not guarantee that the ship will call at every port on the itinerary or follow every part of the advertised route or schedule or that every part of the Package will be provided. P&O Cruises reserves the absolute right to decide whether or not to omit any such port(s) and/ or to call at additional ports and/or to change the advertised route, schedule or Package. If P&O Cruises is unable to provide a significant proportion of the Package, it will make suitable alternative arrangements, at no extra cost to the Passenger, for the continuation of the Package. If the Passenger does not accept them, for good reasons, or, if it is impossible to make suitable alternative arrangements P&O Cruises will, where appropriate, provide the Passenger with transport back to the place of departure or to another place to which P&O Cruises and the Passenger have agreed. In both cases P&O Cruises will, where appropriate, compensate the Passenger. Please note that compensation will not be payable if an alteration is minor or if P&O Cruises is not able to provide a significant proportion of the Package due to force majeure. 44. Transit or part transit of straits, other sea areas controlled by vessel traffic schemes, canals, rivers and all other navigable waterways may be subject to delay due to operational circumstances and/or the requirements of the local authorities and P&O Cruises shall have no liability whatsoever in respect of any such delay.
100%
SECURITY, SAFETY AND SUPPORT 45. Passengers are expected at all times to conduct themselves
CANCELLATION BY THE PASSENGER 38. The Passenger may cancel the Contract at any time prior to the commencement of the Package via their travel agent or, for Passengers who have booked direct, by calling our Reservations Department, but in that event P&O Cruises shall be entitled to levy a cancellation charge as a percentage of the price paid in accordance with the following scales. Period before departure within which written notice of cancellation is received by P&O Cruises From the date of booking until 57 days before departure (until 91 days before departure in the case of a world cruise & Alaska) 56 to 42 days (90 to 42 days in the case of a world cruise & Alaska) 41 to 16 days 15 to 6 days Less than 6 days before departure or failure to embark. For fly cruises, departure day is the date of the flight departure.
39. It may be possible for the Passenger to re-claim these cancellation charges (less any applicable excess) under the terms of the Passenger’s insurance policy. Claims should be submitted to the appropriate insurer. After departure, if the Passenger disembarks whether by reason of sickness or any other reason the Passenger will not be entitled to a refund of a proportion of the Package not used.
Cancellation charges (percentage of price paid) Deposit 45%
in a proper manner and with due regard to the health, safety, comfort, enjoyment and general well-being of all persons both on board the ship and involved in the provision of any service or facility forming part of the Package or any shore excursion, and the Passenger expressly agrees to this. If it appears that a Passenger’s conduct, behaviour or health is such as to be a breach of this requirement or the Passenger’s behaviour, health or conduct is likely to endanger the Passenger’s own health or safety or that of any other Passenger or crew or may make the Passenger likely to be refused permission to go ashore at any port or may make P&O Cruises liable for the costs of any medical treatment and/or maintenance and support and/or repatriation, then P&O Cruises and/or the Master shall have the right according to the particular circumstances to take any one or more of the following measures as may appear to be reasonable and appropriate – • refuse to embark or to disembark the Passenger at any particular port or other place of call; • disembark the Passenger; • transfer the Passenger to another berth; • confine the Passenger to a particular stateroom or to the ship’s medical centre; • through the ship’s doctor and/or his staff, administer any drug, medicine or other substance of a similar nature, or admit and/ or confine the Passenger to a hospital or any similar institution at any port as the ship’s doctor may consider necessary. 46. In the event of P&O Cruises and/or the Master acting in accordance with clause 45 above, neither the Passenger nor (at the sole discretion of P&O Cruises) any other person travelling with the Passenger (whether or not under the same booking) shall be entitled to make a claim against P&O Cruises for any loss or expense incurred as a result of such action, whether for a full or partial refund of the price or for any other form of compensation or for the cost of returning to the United Kingdom or to any other place or for any other form of loss or expense whatsoever. Where the Passenger is repatriated pursuant to this clause at P&O Cruises’ expense, P&O Cruises shall have the right to recover the cost of this. 47. If any Passenger is denied the right to board an aircraft because, in the reasonable opinion of the Captain, the Passenger is unfit to travel or represents a threat to the safety of the aircraft or its passengers or crew or is abusive or disruptive, P&O Cruises will not be liable to complete the Passenger’s holiday arrangements and will not be liable to pay any refunds or compensation. If an aircraft is forced to make an unscheduled landing as a result of the conduct of any Passenger, P&O Cruises shall have the right to recover the full cost thereof from the Passenger. 48. For security reasons, it may be necessary at any time to search Passengers and/or their luggage and goods and the Passenger agrees to allow such search upon being so requested by the Master or any other authorised person. 49. The Passenger must not bring on board the ship any goods or articles of an inflammable or dangerous nature, nor any controlled or prohibited substance, nor any animals. To do so shall be a breach of these Conditions and shall render the Passenger strictly liable to P&O Cruises for any injury, loss, damage or expense and the Passenger shall compensate P&O Cruises in full for any loss, damage or expense suffered by P&O Cruises as a result of such breach. The Passenger may also be personally liable to statutory penalties. The Master (or any other officer delegated for the purpose) shall be entitled at all times to enter and search the stateroom and personal luggage (whether or not in the stateroom) of any Passenger whom the Master reasonably believes may be in breach of this clause. Where the Passenger is found to be in breach of this clause, P&O Cruises and/or the Master of the ship shall be entitled to exercise any of the powers conferred by clause 45 and clause 46 shall apply. 50. Any crew member or other person authorised by P&O Cruises shall be entitled to enter a Passenger’s stateroom to carry out necessary inspection, maintenance or repair work or for any purpose associated therewith. COMPLAINTS 51. Any problem which arises during a holiday must be raised by the Passenger at the time with a representative of P&O Cruises. If the problem is not resolved to the full satisfaction of the Passenger during the holiday, it is essential that to enable the complaint to be investigated properly it must be notified in writing to P&O Cruises at the earliest opportunity thereafter and in any event no later than 28 days after the Passenger’s return from the Package. Failure to report the complaint within this time may adversely affect P&O Cruises’ ability to investigate and deal with it and may prejudice any future claim. LIABILITY 52. Subject to paragraphs 52 to 56 P&O Cruises accepts responsibility for death, injury or illness caused by the negligent acts and/or omissions of its Suppliers in respect of the Package, but excluding the Cruise. P&O Cruises limits its liability, where applicable, by the conventions referred to in clauses 55 to 60 inclusive. In any event, P&O Cruises is not responsible for any
improper or non-performance of any services forming part of the Package which are wholly attributable to the fault of the Passenger; the unforeseeable or unavoidable act or omission of a third party unconnected with the provision of any services to be provided under the Contract; unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond the control of P&O Cruises and/or the relevant Supplier the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, including (but not limited to) an event of force majeure; or any event which P&O Cruises and/or the relevant Supplier could not even with all due care have foreseen or forestalled. 53. For claims not involving personal injury, death or illness or which are not subject to the conventions referred to in clauses 55 to 60 inclusive, P&O Cruises’ liability for improper performance of the Contract shall be limited to a maximum of twice the price which the Passenger affected paid for the Package (not including insurance premiums and amendment charges) and P&O Cruises shall have no liability for any loss of business or profits, loss of use or any other consequential or indirect loss or damage. 54. All carriage (by land, air and sea) is subject to the terms and conditions of carriage of the actual carrier. These may limit or exclude liability. They are expressly incorporated into the Contract. Copies of these terms and conditions are available on request from P&O Cruises. P&O Cruises will ensure that the Passenger is informed of the identity of the air carrier once it has been finalised and details of likely carriers are contained in the brochure. P&O Cruises does not use any carrier on the EU banned carrier list, available via our website. The liability of P&O Cruises will not exceed that of any carrier. 55. Carriage of Passengers and their luggage by air is governed by various international conventions (hereinafter “the international air conventions”), including the Warsaw Convention 1929 (whether as amended by the Hague Protocol 1955 or the Montreal Protocol 1999 or otherwise) or the Montreal Convention 1999. Flights between the UK and any member state of the European Union are currently governed by EC Regulation 889/2002 which gives legal effect to the Montreal Convention 1999. To the extent that P&O Cruises may be liable as a non-performing air carrier to Passengers in respect of carriage by air, the terms of the international air conventions (including any subsequent amendments and any new convention which may be applicable to a Contract for a fly cruise between P&O Cruises and a Passenger) are expressly incorporated into these Conditions. The international air conventions may permit the carrier to limit its liability for death and personal injury, loss of and damage to luggage and delay. Insofar as P&O Cruises may have any liability to the Passenger in respect of carriage by air, it shall be determined accordingly. Copies of these conventions are available from P&O Cruises on request. 56. Carriage of Passengers and their luggage by sea, including the Cruise, is governed by the Athens Convention 1974 (whether as subsequently amended or otherwise “the Athens Convention”). A copy is available on request. The Athens Convention is expressly incorporated into these Conditions and any liability of P&O Cruises for death or personal injury or for loss of or damage to luggage arising out of carriage by sea shall be solely brought in accordance with the Athens Convention and solely determined in accordance with the Athens Convention. In most cases, the Athens Convention limits the carrier’s liability for death or personal injury or loss of or damage to luggage and makes special provision for valuables. It presumes that luggage has been delivered undamaged to the Passenger unless written notice is given to P&O Cruises (as carrier): a. in the case of apparent damage, before or at the time of disembarkation or redelivery; b. in the case of damage which is not apparent or of loss, within 15 days from the date of disembarkation or redelivery or from the time when such redelivery should have taken place. 57. Any damages payable by P&O Cruises up to the Athens Convention limits shall be reduced in proportion to any contributory negligence by the Passenger and by the maximum deductible specified in Article 8 (4) of the Athens Convention. 58. Insofar as P&O Cruises may be liable to a Passenger in respect of claims arising out of carriage by air or carriage by sea, P&O Cruises shall be entitled to all the rights, defences, immunities and limitations available, respectively, to the actual air carrier (including his own terms and conditions of carriage) and under the Athens Convention, and nothing in these Conditions shall be deemed a surrender thereof. To the extent that any provision in these Conditions is made null and void by the Warsaw Convention, the Montreal Convention or the Athens Convention or any legislation compulsorily applicable or is otherwise unenforceable, it shall be void to that extent but no further. 59. Insofar as the Cruise may be performed on a ship not owned by P&O Cruises, it is agreed that P&O Cruises shall at all times nevertheless be deemed a ship owner for the purposes of the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1976, whether as amended by the Protocol of 1996 or otherwise and as in force in any relevant jurisdiction from time to time, and so entitled to limit liability thereunder.
60. Except for claims arising out of carriage by air (as provided by clause 55), any liability in respect of death and personal injury and loss of and damage to luggage which P&O Cruises may incur to the Passenger during sea carriage, whether under the Contract in accordance with these Conditions or otherwise, shall always be subject to the limits of liability contained in the Athens Convention. 61. In respect of any claims for loss of or damage to property including luggage which are not covered by international conventions including the Athens Convention and/or the Montreal Convention and where liability is not limited by reference to any enactment, terms or conditions then any legal liability that P&O Cruises may have for any such losses will be limited to £500.00 per Passenger. P&O Cruises shall not be liable for lost valuables including jewellery and/or monies under any circumstances. Passengers must ensure that their personal possessions and valuables are with them at all times. 62. Hotels and shuttle services included in the Package are arranged by P&O Cruises with local Suppliers who may themselves engage the services of local operators. Standards of hygiene, accommodation and transport in many countries where excursions take place are often lower than comparable standards in the UK. P&O Cruises will at all times endeavour to appoint reputable and competent local Suppliers. The terms and conditions of the hotels and shuttle services will be applicable and are expressly incorporated into the Contract. These may limit or exclude liability of the hotelier or the shuttle services operators. The liability of P&O Cruises will not exceed that of any hotelier and/or shuttle services operator. Local laws and regulations of the relevant country will be relevant in assessing performance of the Package services. In the event of a complaint by a Passenger, the Contract will be regarded as having been performed if local laws and regulations relating to those services have been satisfied even if the laws of England and Wales have not been met. P&O Cruises is not responsible for any improper or non-performance of such services which are wholly attributable to the fault of the Passenger; the unforeseeable or unavoidable act or omission of a third party unconnected with the provision of the services to be provided; unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond the control of P&O Cruises and/or the relevant Supplier the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, including (but not limited to) an event of force majeure; or any event which P&O Cruises and/or the relevant Supplier could not even with all due care have foreseen or forestalled. 63. P&O Cruises does not include any shore excursions in the price. Shore excursions do not form any part of a Package. Shore excursions may be reserved after a Package has been booked from a separate shore excursions brochure or online. Reservations may be made for a specified period prior to the Cruise commencing. Purchases may also be made onboard the ship. 64. Any shore excursions booked will be supplied by local operators. P&O Cruises will at all times endeavour to appoint reputable and competent local operators who apply the local laws and regulations of the relevant country. Shore excursion operators are not P&O Cruises’ servants, agents or suppliers. P&O Cruises is not responsible for any acts or omissions which are wholly attributable to the fault of the local operators. P&O Cruises does not operate, perform or otherwise organise and/or audit any shore excursions. All Passengers must ensure that they are fit and healthy to undertake shore excursions. All shore excursions are governed by the terms and conditions in the shore excursions brochure. 65. All employees, agents, contractors and their sub-contractors (including Suppliers as defined in clause 1), as well as all insurers of both P&O Cruises and its Suppliers shall have the benefit of the same rights, defences, immunities and limitations available to P&O Cruises under these Conditions. ACTIONS, CLAIMS AND TIME LIMITS 66. Any action by a Passenger arising out of carriage by air or sea must be commenced within the time limit prescribed by the Warsaw Convention, the Montreal Convention or the Athens Convention, as applicable. 67. If a court or tribunal applies any law other than English law, P&O Cruises shall (in respect of all exclusions and limitations of liability) be entitled to the maximum protection allowed by that law including statutory protection of limitation as to the amount of damages recoverable. 68. Some disputes involving claims to a limited amount may, if the Passenger so wishes, be referred to arbitration under schemes devised by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators for the Passenger Shipping Association and ABTA. An application for arbitration must be made within nine months of disembarkation from the ship. In addition, the Passenger Shipping Association offers a low cost conciliation procedure where a non-binding review of correspondence is undertaken by an independent conciliator. Details of these schemes are available on request.
from P&O Cruises (or via the authorised agent through which they booked) confirming the Passenger’s arrangements and protection under P&O Cruises’ Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 6294. In the unlikely event of P&O Cruises’ insolvency, the CAA will ensure that Passengers booked on fly cruises are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money the Passenger has paid to P&O Cruises for an advance booking. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. 70. Not all Packages offered and sold by P&O Cruises will be protected by the ATOL scheme. All non-fly cruises sold by P&O Cruises in the UK are protected under the ABTA scheme of financial protection. In the unlikely event of P&O Cruises’ insolvency, ABTA will ensure that Passengers booked on non-fly cruises are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money paid to P&O Cruises for an advance booking. Cruises sold overseas may be covered by consumer protection schemes in place in the country of sale or by the protection scheme operated by ABTA, and Passengers should contact P&O Cruises for confirmation of what protection may apply to their booking. DATA PROTECTION 71. In clauses 71 to 73, “you” means the Passenger. In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements, P&O Cruises needs to use the personal information you provide such as name, address, any special needs, health, medical, mobility or dietary requirements, etc. P&O Cruises may pass personal information on to other relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as travel agents, airlines, hotels, and transport companies. Your personal information may also be provided to security and/or credit checking companies, credit and debit card companies, government and enforcement agencies, public authorities such as customs and immigration if required by them, or as required by law. This may involve sending your personal information between different countries, including countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA) where controls on data protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. This may also apply to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities or dietary/religious requirements. If P&O Cruises cannot pass your personal information on to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, P&O Cruises cannot properly affect your booking. For the safety and security of the ship and its Passengers, P&O Cruises may operate closed circuit television (CCTV) in certain areas on board the ship during your Cruise. Please be aware, however, that P&O Cruises does not undertake to operate all cameras or monitor or record CCTV images at all times. 72. The personal information you provide to P&O Cruises, or which is obtained through your dealings with P&O Cruises or other Carnival group cruise brands, will also be used by Carnival plc and Carnival Corporation group companies or by processors on their behalf: to review your dealings with Carnival plc and Carnival Corporation brands including your purchasing and entertainment preferences; to review, develop and improve the cruises and services Carnival offers; for market research purposes and for statistical analysis. This may involve transferring your personal information to Carnival Corporation group companies in the US. 73. P&O Cruises is a Carnival plc brand. Carnival plc and Carnival Corporation group companies (including those in the US) may wish to contact you by post, email and/or telephone with news, information and offers from P&O Cruises and other Carnival group cruise brands (such as Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line Ocean Village, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Lines and Costa Cruises). If you have booked and you would like to alter your marketing preferences you can now do so via the Cruise Personaliser system on the P&O Cruises website. Alternatively, you can write to us at Customer Data Department, P&O Cruises, Carnival House, 100 Harbour Parade, Southampton, SO15 1ST. If you wish to obtain a copy of the personal information held about you, please write to the above address. Carnival plc may make a charge for supplying this information as permitted by law.
CONSUMER PROTECTION 69. When a Passenger buys an ATOL protected fly cruise from P&O Cruises in the UK they will receive a Confirmation Invoice
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P&O Cruises is proud to be a member of World’s Leading Cruise Lines. With seven unique cruise lines and thousands of destinations and activities to choose from, World’s Leading Cruise Lines inspires you to discover your best holiday experience. Whatever you’re looking for in a holiday, you’ll find it here.
American-style luxury
Timeless voyages since 1840
Intimate, small-ship luxury
Experience American-style luxury in the relaxed and cosmopolitan surroundings of a stunning Princess Cruises superliner. On a Princess cruise the world revolves around you, so you choose what you want to do, when you want to do it. With our friendly ‘can do’ service, five star facilities, flexible dining options, poolside spectacular Movies under the Stars, and the adults-only spa retreat The Sanctuary, not to mention a choice of more than 350 destinations worldwide, you really can escape completely.
Between September 2010 and early 2012, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria will continue to acquaint guests with captivating destinations and the enduring sophistication of the Cunard experience. Another majestic liner, Queen Elizabeth, will join them in October 2010 as a magnificent finale to our 170th Anniversary year; together, the three largest, and arguably the most magnificent Cunarders ever built, shall comprise the most modern fleets to grace the ocean waves.
To request a brochure call 0844 579 0099 or visit www.princess.com
To request a brochure call 0845 071 0300 or visit our website at www.cunard.com
Cruising aboard The Yachts of Seabourn is unlike any other form of travel. Designed for just 208 to 450 guests, our intimate yachts are the perfect blend of glamorous elegance and Seabourn’s legendary yachting style - the impeccable service, exquisite cuisine and highly personalized destination experience that have earned Seabourn the most coveted awards in travel. From the luxury of all-suite accommodations to complimentary fine wines and spirits throughout the yacht, this is Seabourn Yachting Life… the definition of travelling well. For more information or to request a brochure, visit our website at www.seabourn.com
Fun for All. All for Fun
A Signature of Excellence
Discovering new destinations
As well as pure, never stop smiling fun for all, Carnival’s spectacular SuperLiners offer ultra modern resort amenities (including some of the highest rated health and fitness facilities afloat), delicious dining, glittering entertainment and a uniquely informal holiday lifestyle that appeals to everyone, while cruising the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera and - for summer 2011 - a full summer season of Mediterranean itineraries, onboard the new Carnival Magic. Cruise with Carnival and make your other memories jealous!
Holland America Line’s mid-size ships are known for their well appointed touches, world-class art collections and spacious accommodations, featuring thoughtful additions like bathrobes and complimentary fruit. The award-winning crew is known for their intuitive style and ability to tend to guests’ every need; while a wide range of dine dining options, coupled with premium entertainment and enrichment activities ensure that Holland America Line is recognised again and again as one of the world’s leading cruise lines.
With over 60 years experience in cruising, we know what our guests want. Always pioneering new routes, we were the first to offer regular cruises from Dubai and China and in 2010 we travel to over 250 destinations including Mauritius, South America, the USA and Canada, the Mediterranean and, for the first time, Greenland. 2011 gets more exciting yet, with new cruises to the Red Sea and the return of our special Around the World voyage.
To request a brochure please call 08707 270 411 or visit our website www.carnivalcruise.co.uk
To request a brochure please call 08707 270 448 or visit our website www.hollandamerica.co.uk
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To request a brochure visit our website at www.costacruises.co.uk