Cunard's iconic Queens are known as some of the most luxurious ships at sea, however did you know that their shore experiences are every bit as extraordinary?
Whether it’s adventurous trips to inspiring locations, wellness retreats in volcanic mountain ranges or food tours showcasing local cuisines, Cunard offers a luxury experiences to suit every traveller. Keep reading to find out their top 10 most luxurious shore excursions...
1. Sukayu Hot Spring Onsen, Japan
Soak up the scenery of the Hakkoda Mountains and immerse yourself in the centuries-old tradition of hot spring bathing, at the Sukayu Onsen, one of the country’s most prominent hot spring resorts. Sit back and revel in the wonderful scenery as you venture into the volcanic Hakkoda Mountain range, where you’ll cross the Jogakura-Ohashi Bridge, Japan’s longest steel arch bridge (825 feet long and 400 feet high). When you reach the Sukayu Hot Spring, which dates back to 1684, you’ll sit down for a traditional lunch inside the ryokan. Then you’ll enter the onsen, which was recognised as the ‘first hot spring for the health of the nation’ in 1954.
2. Rojo Tango: Passion, Madness, Glamour, Argentina
Marvel at the spellbinding passion and glamour of an evening tango show at Rojo Tango, in the Faena Hotel, a cabaret theatre that boasts an intimate, luxurious setting with an extraordinary atmosphere. Your evening commences with a three-course dinner created by Faena Hotel’s world-class chefs, accompanied by some of Argentina’s best wines. Then the evening heats up with an intense and sensual live tango show, featuring professional dancers and singers, dazzling wardrobes, and a live tango orchestra.
3. Best of Rio, Brazil
Start your day with a fascinating city tour taking in the highlights and sights of this amazing city, featuring a ride along Rio’s most celebrated Guanabara Bay. Ascend via cable car to the stunning Sugar Loaf Mountain rising 1,299 feet above sea level and experience breathtaking views of the Corcovado, sandy beaches, Rio de Janeiro-Niteroi Bridge, and the city of Niteroi across the Bay. After lunch, visit one of the new seven wonders of the modern world, the famous and awe inspiring Statue of Christ the Redeemer at the top of the Corcovado Mountain.
4. Hovercraft Eco Adventure & Wildlife Viewing, USA
Embark on an exclusive small-group hovercraft wildlife expedition, around Ketchikan and its remote areas. Climb aboard the US Coast Guard certified Blackbird Hovercraft at the pier, and take flight, 20 inches above the water, on narrated journey of fantastic local attractions. Your scenic flight will offer up-close views of the Ketchikan waterfront, and take you over gentle waves and along the jagged shoreline. Then, spend time exploring the remote beach on the beautiful Tongass National Forest shoreline, before embarking on a marine wildlife viewing expedition, searching for eagles, whales, harbour seals, and more.
5. Taste of Tuscania, Italy
This tour takes you out into the Etruscan countryside, rich in vineyards and olive groves. You’ll seek out the quaint hill town of Tuscania, and your guide will explain how it developed in medieval times with magnificent walls, ramparts, and churches. You’ll then have free time to wander the narrow cobblestone streets and absorb the atmosphere. A highlight of your tour will be a visit to an ‘agriturismo’ farmhouse to sample organic regional specialities including superb olive oils and wine.
6. In Search of the Northern Lights, Norway
Join a group of specially trained guides who use their detailed knowledge of the region and its ever-changing weather, to lead you to areas for optimum viewing of the Northern Lights. They’ll also assist with camera settings to ensure you capture Mother Nature’s light show. Your guides will explain why this natural phenomenon occurs, as you travel around searching for this celestial wonder. It’s always a magical occasion when a faint colourful wisp, or a great shimmering blanket of wavering light, appears above you in the expansive night sky.
7. Overland to Machu Picchu, Chile
This incredible four-day trip will see you traverse narrow, winding valleys with rugged gorges, spectacular snow-capped peaks, and countless archaeological ruins. You will visit the timeless wonder and grandeur of Machu Picchu – the ‘Lost City of the Incas’. Soaring over 600 metres above the rumbling Urubamba River, this misty haven is filled with remarkably preserved palaces, baths, and temples. Later, you will visit the mysterious fortress of Sacsayhuaman, and take in the sacred site of Koricancha to see the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, which was built on the foundations of the Inca Empire’s most important temple.
8. Tempting Taste Trail, Australia
Explore the gorgeous Tasmanian countryside, meet local producers, and sample delectable fresh produce. Tasmania is renowned to foodies around the world for producing high-quality produce – and this excursion will allow you to sample wild abalone and oysters and hear about the thriving abalone industry. Try top-notch whisky from a famous distillery, and savour gourmet cheeses, handmade chocolates, and great coffee, fresh from the farm in Coal River. You'll also visit the historic locations of Salamanca, Battery Point, and Sandy Bay.
9. Bathing in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
As you travel through dramatic volcanic scenery to the Blue Lagoon, your knowledgeable guide will reveal the history and science behind this famous natural geothermal spa. The Blue Lagoon is enveloped in a gorgeous volcanic landscape. It’s rich in minerals like silica, algae, and sulphur, and its unique properties will melt your stresses away, as your body absorbs the heat and healing powers of the water. Dotted around the Lagoon, you’ll find silica mud in wooden boxes that can be applied to your face and body. This pure-white geothermal mud, deep cleans, exfoliates, and naturally strengthens your skin's barrier function, and smooths your complexion.
10. Hong Kong at Night by Vintage Tram, China
Wind your way from Western Market in Hong Kong Island through the island's Central, Wan Chai and Admiralty Districts to Causeway Bay. Marvel at the sights of this vibrant and bustling city as your guide brings the street scenes around you to life. Continue to one of Hong Kong’s popular restaurants where you can indulge in a sumptuous eight-course traditional Chinese meal. Reboard your tram and take in the brilliantly coloured signs that illuminate Nathan Road, Hong Kong's ‘Golden Mile’ of shops. Enjoy some free time for retail therapy at Temple Street Night Market, an amazing shopping district featuring rows of brightly lit stalls.
