15-night Asia: India, Thailand, Malaysia & Sri Lanka Cruise

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Half Day Singapore City Tour – 4 hours - Singapore

Highlights:

• Bumboat Ride
• Merlion Park
• Drive around the Civic District
• National Orchid Garden Admission

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, if guests can walk a short
distance to board the bumboat when wheelchair must be foldable to fit into the minivan.

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:

• Pick up/ Drop off services to/from cruise port
• Licensed, professional English-speaking guide
• Transportation by deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle
• A Bottled Water

Not Included:

• Meals that are not mentioned in the above itinerary
• Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
• Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurants, etc. 

Good Morning, Ni Hao (Walking Tour)

Good Morning, Ni Hao (Walking Tour) 

Destination: Singapore
Tour Duration: 04 hours

Highlights:
Our guide will pick you up at the port (Marina Bay Cruise Center or Singapore Cruise Center).

Spend a wonderful morning as a local would visiting a wet market, enjoying a hawker breakfast and finishing off at a traditional heritage shop. Begin with a stroll through a local wet market, always an explosion of sights, sounds and smells! See where the term “wet market” comes from as you watch stall owners use water to wash the floors, to freshen up fruits and vegetables, and to keep fish and shellfish alive. Check out local favourites like century egg, black chicken and a wide array of spices. Continue to the Chinatown Complex, Singapore’s largest food centre and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Finally, stop by a traditional heritage shop where locals go for herbs, tonics and even pastries for a family tea time. End your tour on a sweet note with a sampling of local desserts.

Inclusions:
• Private transfer
• Port pick-up and drop-off
• Sightseeing with Local English Speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Meals as specified (meals only, no drinks/ waters)
• Cold towels and water on sightseeing days 

Not Included:
• Other meals where not mention in the program
• Drinks/ waters on meals
• Singapore visa (Please contact your cruise for the visa details)
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Other services not listed in inclusive column
 

Full Day Singapore Tour – 8 hours - Singapore

Highlights:

• Bumboat Ride
• Merlion Park
• Drive around the Civic District
• National Orchid Garden Admission
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Kampong Glam
• Arab Street
• Chinatown
• Little India
• Tekka Centre

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible:  Yes, if guests can walk a short distance to board the bumboat when wheelchair must be foldable to fit into the minivan.

Physical Activity Level:  Moderate

Inclusions:

• Pick up/ Drop off services to/from cruise port
• Licensed, professional English-speaking guide
• Transportation by deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottled Water

Not Included:

• Meals that are not mentioned in the above itinerary
• Drinks or personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities.
• Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurants, etc.

Singapore City Tour (4 hours)

Half-day tour to Singapore City

Highlights

• Botanical Gardens
• Chinatown
• Bum Boat ride - 30-minute ride (share-basis)
• Merlion Park & Little India

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

Not Included

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel Insurance
• Any Visa

Singapore Sentosa Tour (4 hours)

Half-day tour to Singapore - Sentosa

Highlights

• Sentosa Resort
• Sentosa Merlion Tower
• SEA Aquarium

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
 
Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

 Not Included:

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel insurance
• Any visa 

 
 

Singapore Night Safari Tour (4 hours)

Evening Singapore Safari Tour

Highlights

• 1815 hrs   Singapore Night Safari
• 2215 hrs  Return to hotel

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
 
Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

 Not Included:

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel insurance
• Any visa 

Singapore Ethnic Neighbourhood Tour (4 hours)

Half Day Tour to Singapore Ethnic Neighbourhood

Highlights

• Kampong Glam
• Bugis Village
• Trishaw ride (2 persons to 1 Trishaw)

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
 
Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

 Not Included:

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel insurance
• Any visa 

Singapore Foodie Tour (4 hours)

Half day tour to Singapore Foodie

Highlights

• Maxwell Hawker Centre or Lau Pat Sat (either one of the above venue depending availability)
• Tea Chapter

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
 
Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

 Not Included:

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel insurance
• Any visa 

Singapore Flyer & Gardens By The Bay (4 hours)

Half day tour to Singapore Flyer & Gardens By The Bay

Highlights

• Singapore Flyer - a 35 minutes ride (share-basis)
• Gardens by the Bay (Flower Dome and Cloud Forest)

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
 
Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

 Not Included:

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel insurance
• Any visa 

Singapore Toa Payoh Hub Tour (4 hours)

Half day tour to Singapore Toa Payoh Hub

Highlights

• Toa Payoh (a first generation New Town built in the late 1960s)
• Coffee break in a local coffee shop
• Take a subway for a 5 minutes drive to Bishan (a second generation New Town, designed and built in the early 1990's)

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
 
Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

 Not Included:

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel insurance
• Any visa 

Singapore Crazy Rich Asians Movie Locations Tour (4 hours)

Half day tour to Crazy Rich Asians Movie Locations in Singapore

Highlights

• Bukit Pasoh
• Newton Food Centre
• Chijmes
• Raffles Hotel

Tour Duration: 4 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
 
Inclusions:

• Transportation is by private vehicle (Mercedes Benz E200) with services of a driver and an English-speaking guide
• Local bottled water & entrance fees during sightseeing
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Service voucher

 
Not Included:

• Any cruise arrangements
• Any meals
• Travel insurance
• Any visa 

Singapore - Gardens By The Bay (3.5 Hours)

Highlights:

• Enter one of the "Top 10 Indoor Gardens of the World" - a futuristic area of garden artistry and horticulture spread over 101 hectares.
• In the Flower Dome we can marvel at the world's largest glass greenhouse, and wander amongst baobabs, thousand-year-old olive trees, a changing flower field display and more.
• In the Cloud Forest we will enter a mysterious world veiled in mist, as we come face to face with the 35-metre tall indoor waterfall and explore seven discovery zones.

Tour Duration:      3.5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

• English-speaking guide.
• Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle.
• 1 complimentary bottle of drinking water and 1 cold towel per person per half day tour/ 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person per full day tour.
• Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary.

Not Included:

• Visa fees
• Lunch
• Drinks
• Personal expenses

Singapore - Heartlands Tour (3.5 Hours)

Highlights:

• Visit Toa Payoh New Town. This is the first town to be built by the Housing Development Board, the government arm in charge of public housing in Singapore.
• Explore a typical self-sufficient town complete with public vs private housing, public transport, public amenities as well as industrial and commercial areas.
• Visit the public recreation areas and view a typical show flat for a public housing building. Visits to a wet market and hawker centre will give us an even deeper glimpse into local life. (Showflat is not open on Sundays and public holidays)

Tour Duration: 3.5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning (Suggested starting time: 09h00 or 14h00)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:

• Local English Speaking Guide
• Ground transportation in private A/C vehicle.
• 2 bottles of water and 2 cold towels per person
• Sightseeing including admission fees according to itinerary. 

Not Included:

• Personal Expenses, Tipping

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Georgetown Heritage Tour – 4 hours

Highlights:

• Peranakan Mansion Museum
• Little India
• Chinese Clan Houses
• Armenian Street
• Street Art
• Chocolate Boutique

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning and afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: No

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:

• Return transfer from/ to the port with private car and English speaking guide
• Entrance fee to Khoo Kongsi and Pinang Peranakan Mansion (main hall only)

Not Included:

• Any sightseeing or meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Gratuity to the guide & driver
• Miscellaneous charges

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

At your Leisure in Phuket (Car & Driver Only)

Enjoy a private chauffeur-driven luxury sedan with driver for “At Your Leisure” touring. You decide where you want to go and what you want to see.

Inclusions: 
• Transfers in private air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking local guide 
• Local bottled water

Exclusions: 
• Expenses of a personal nature such as gratuities to guides and drivers

Stories of Phuket Old Town - 4 hours

Meet your professional local guide to begin your private experience of Phuket. Explore the old town, which prospered during the 16th to 18th centuries due to a booming tin-mining industry. The town features beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture and is a melting pot of Thai, Malay, Chinese and Portuguese influences. 

Visit Chin Pracha, one of the oldest houses on the island built in 1904. Iconic films such as “Indiana Jones,”  “Heaven & Earth” and many others, were filmed in this house.

Continue driving to a viewpoint at the top of Rang Hill, which offers scenic views over Phuket Town. Then head to Wat Chalong, one of the island’s most famous temples. Learn a bit about Buddhist beliefs and customs and hear the interesting story of the gilt statues of the monk-hero Luang Pho Chaem and his aid Luang Pho Chuang. After exploring the temple, return to the ship.

Inclusions: 
• Sightseeing and transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking local guide
• Entrance fees for listed sites
• Local bottled water

Exclusions: 
• Expenses of a personal nature such as gratuities to guides and drivers
• Meals and beverages

Duration: 4 hours   

Phuket Old Town and Scenery - 8 hours

Meet your professional local guide to begin your private experience of Phuket. Explore the old town, which prospered during the 16th to 18th centuries due to a booming tin-mining industry. The town features beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture and is a melting pot of Thai, Malay, Chinese and Portuguese influences. 

Visit Chin Pracha, one of the oldest houses on the island built in 1904. Iconic films such as “Indiana Jones,”  “Heaven & Earth” and many others, were filmed in this house.

Continue to Saphan Hin, a recreational park that houses a tin mining monument dedicated to Australian Captain Edward Thomas Miles, the man who brought the first dredge to Phuket in 1909. Then visit the Chinese shrine in the park to discover a traditional place of worship.

Then head to Wat Chalong, one of the island’s most famous temples. Learn a bit about Buddhist beliefs and customs and hear the interesting story of the gilt statues of the monk-hero Luang Pho Chaem and his aid Luang Pho Chuang. 

Finally, make a stop at Laem Phromthep, a stunning coastal viewpiont that offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea. Transfer back to the ship.

Inclusions: 
• Sightseeing and transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking local guide
• Entrance fees for listed sites
• Local bottled water

Exclusions: 
• Expenses of a personal nature such as gratuities to guides and drivers
• Meals and beverages

Duration: 8 hours   

Life of Old Phuket - 4 hours

Meet your professional local guide to begin your private experience of Phuket. Explore the old town, which prospered during the 16th to 18th centuries due to a booming tin-mining industry. The town features beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture and is a melting pot of Thai, Malay, Chinese and Portuguese influences. 

Walk along the old streets of town and feel the charm of lives lived a century ago around Thalang, Dibuk and Krabi roads. Visit Thai Hau Museum to learn more about the history of the island.

Continue to a Chinese shrine set in a peaceful spot along Phang Nga Road. Despite being in the center of town, the shrine remains unaffected by the hustle and bustle. Then drive to a viewpoint at the top of Rang Hill to admire scenic views over Phuket Town before returning to the ship. 

Inclusions: 
• Sightseeing and transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking local guide
• Entrance fees for listed sites
• Local bottled water

Exclusions: 
• Expenses of a personal nature such as gratuities to guides and drivers
• Meals and beverages

Duration: 4 hours   

Phuket Rubber Plantation, Gibbons and Old Town - 8 hours

Meet your professional local guide to explore some of the beautiful natural scenery and cultural highlights of Phuket. Visit a rubber plantation to learn about the arduous work of collecting sap and transforming it into sheets of rubber. Then continue to Bang Pae waterfall to admire the tropical greenery and observe the wildlife at the nearby Gibbon Rehabilitation Project.
 
Explore the old town, which prospered during the 16th to 18th centuries due to a booming tin-mining industry. The town features beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture and is a melting pot of Thai, Malay, Chinese and Portuguese influences. 
 
You may stop for lunch on your own account at Blue Elephant restaurant, serving traditional Thai cuisine. After lunch, stop by to see the Big Buddha temple and enjoy the scenic views before returning to the ship.

Optional Costs:
• Lunch at Blue Elephant including two units of drinks (water, juice, soft drink)

Inclusions: 
• Sightseeing and transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking local guide
• Entrance fees for listed sites
• Local bottled water

Exclusions: 
• Expenses of a personal nature such as gratuities to guides and drivers
• Meals and beverages

Duration: 8 hours   

Phuket Port

Meet with guide at the ship docking and transfer to town. Car and guide is at disposal.
Limited area: Phuket
Duration:        Within 4 hours OR within 8 hours
Meals:       None
TOUR INCLUSIONS
 

Inclusive of:	Non-inclusive of:
·   Private transfers and transportation with Local English speaking guide ·   Cold towels and water on car ·   Dock permit ·   Tips & gratuities	·   Thailand visa (US/ CA Passport holders do not need visa to Thailand) ·   Accommodation with daily breakfast ·   Entrance fees ·   All meals ·   All flights ·   Personal expenses ·   Travel insurance ·   Other services not listed in inclusive column

 

Phuket Town Sightseeing

Disembark the ship and meet your guide. Depart on a drive along the Phuket coastline past Karon Beach and Kata Beach to a viewpoint where you can see Phuket’s three most beautiful beaches. Continue to Promthep Cape at the southernmost point of Phuket for its best viewpoint of the coastline. Drive by Rawai Beach and visit Wat Chalong, Phuket’s largest and most revered temple, built at the beginning of the 19^th century. Continue on to Nakkerd Hill to see one of the island’s iconic landmarks, the 45m (147ft) tall Big Buddha, impressively layered with beautiful Burmese white jade marble. After enjoying a tasty Thai set lunch at a local restaurant by the sea (non-alcoholic drink included), stop at a cashew factory to see how the nuts are grown and processed. Drive back to Old Phuket to see the charming Sino-Portuguese shophouses on Thalang and Debuk Roads, reflecting the architecture of people who came to Phuket centuries ago for its tin mining industry. Finally, visit Sapanhin, a beautiful public park by the sea popular with local families on weekends. Stop by the nearby Chinese shrine before returning to the port and your ship.
NOTES:

• Suggested departure time: 11:00.
• Tour duration: 07 hours.
• Timing may be changed without prior notice, depending on local conditions such as weather, traffic and / or other conditions.

Meals:       None
TOUR INCLUSIONS
 

Inclusive of:	Non-inclusive of:
·   Private transfers and transportation with Local English speaking guide ·   Cold towels and water on car ·   Dock permit ·   Tips & gratuities	·   Thailand visa (US/ CA Passport holders do not need visa to Thailand) ·   Accommodation with daily breakfast ·   Entrance fees ·   All meals ·   All flights ·   Personal expenses ·   Travel insurance ·   Other services not listed in inclusive column

 

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Cochin: Highlights - 7.5 hours

9AM- 10:30AM 
Disembark the ship drive for 45 minutes to Tripunithura and visit the Hill Palace which was the official residence of the Cochin Royal family built in 1865. The palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style of Kerala and in surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with a deer park. A fully fledged ethno-archaeological museum and Kerala's first ever heritage Museum are the main attractions. Displayed inside are 19^th century paintings, murals sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris, manuscripts, inscriptions and coins belonging to the royal family.

Cooking demonstration and lunch can be arranged at a local home ( on direct payment basis)

2PM- 4PM     

In the afternoon, before returning to the ship which is towards the Silk Route trading post of Fort Cochin, these days a `Heritage Zone’. Beginning with the Chinese and Arabs in the 13^th century, the Portuguese arrived in 1500 A.D. followed by the domination of the Dutch and British. See St. Francis Church originally built in 1510 and the first to reflect European influenced tradition. Portuguese hero Vasco Da Gama died on the site and was buried in the cemetery. 

At Matancherry, there’s the Dutch Palace built in 1557 by the Portuguese as a gift for the Maharaja of Cochin in exchange for trading rights. The Palace houses royal costumes, palanquins, furniture and weapons but its striking feature is a series of murals painted on wooden walls. Later, stop by the Pardesi synagogue, at the heart of what is locally called Jew town. (Closed for a visit on Fridays and Saturday)

4PM - 4:30PM   Thereafter return to the pier. 

Added Value: 

•       Great introduction to Cochin city.
•       The Tour covers the main highlights of the city i.e Depart the Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry, the Dutch Palace and later Jew Street (or Spice Street) in Jew Town.    
•  

- Tour Duration: 7 hours
- Tour can operate : Morning
- Physical activity level : Moderate
- Wheelchair Accessible : No

Closing dates : Fridays - Dutch Palace in Mattancherry  and Fridays & Saturdays – Jewish  Synagogue.     

Inclusions:

- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle 
- Services of a local English speaking guide.
- All the entrance fees and camera fees.
- Credit card and bank charges.
- All the prevailing taxes.  

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Mangalore, Shore Excursion - 4 hours

Meet at the Port of New Mangalore
 Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)

HALF DAY TOUR: 4 hrs

You will disembark the ship and will be met by your personal guide at the pier.
 

You will begin at the tile roofed low structure of the 10^th century Mangaladevi Temple, the temple named after the a Malabar Princess, Mangala Devi who gave her name to the city; the 17^th century Manjunath Temple has some superb bronze images of the Buddha dating to the 10^th and 11^th century, indicating that this site was previously a Buddhist temple.  You will also stop at St. Aloysius Church dating from 1899, situated on Lighthouse Hill, is an architectural gem.  The walls have remarkable 19^th century frescoes painted by the Italian trained Jesuit priest, Moscheni, which covers the walls and ceilings in a profusion of scenes.  The town has a sizable Roman Catholic population. 
 

Virtually all the famous buildings in Mangalore are shrines. The Mangladevi temple and its deity reputedly gave Mangalore its name. The four-armed idol in the temple is one of the most revered in India.

Mangalore is the Cashew growing area of Karnataka and on your way back to the ship you will stop at a Cashew Factory to watch the cleaning, sorting and packing process. 

You will return to the ship 

Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide,Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee,Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes

Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified) Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted seperately

Mangalore - 4 hours

Mangalore is a typical South Indian experience with its quaint mix of old and new. From the pier, we drive towards the city center with our first stop at the Cashew nut processing factory for which the town is renowned. We then explore its cosmopolitan nature visiting the Gokarnath Temple belonging to the industrious Billora community offering an insight into the South Indian form of worship. Its religious hustle and bustle gets contrasted in the chapel of St. Aloysius on Lighthouse hill which has important frescoes depicting the life of Christ by Italian masters.

Added Value: -

-Great introduction to Mangalore city a typically small Indian town and very different from other Indian ports. The mix of the characters in this tour makes for a truly unique experience.

- The Tour covers the main highlights of the city i.e the Achal Cashew processing plant, the Gokarnath Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel etc..

Recommended:

Comfortable footwear, hats and sun block for protection against the sun. Footwear to be removed at the temple & no skimpy dress.

- Tour Duration: 4 hours

- Tour can operate : Morning

- Physical activity level : Moderate

- Wheelchair Accessible : No
- Please note: Cashew factory is closed on Sundays and Public holidays.

Inclusions:

- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle

- Services of a local English speaking guide.

- All the entrance fees and camera fees.

- Credit card and bank charges.

- All the prevailing taxes.

Mangalore: Karkala and Moorbidri - 4.5 hours

A statue rising 12.6 meters and engraved from a single stone rises at a foot of a hill in Karkala erected in 1432 alongside a temple in honor of the great prince Bahubali or “the one with strong shoulders”. Bahubali fought a fierce battle with his brother for a throne but having succeeded then turned to meditation and prayer for 12 long years. Soon creepers started winding around him which gets depicted in this gigantic statue.
 

At Moodbidri, we see another masterpiece of the industrious Jain community which became on offshoot of Hinduism. They called them Basidas or residence of god.

Commissioned by king Devaraja Woodeyar in 1430 AD the temple has a thousand pillars no two of which are alike.

Interspersed between these two highlights is the Soan’s Farm started by the Swiss – German Basel Missionary society in 1926. Alfred Soans made innovative changes to the dry laterite soil and with inter cropping and better water management farmed superior qualities of upland rice, coconut, arecanut, banana, chillies, ginger, tapioca, mango and spices like clove, pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom. Most famous are his Soan’s pineapples which we get to sample.

Added Value:

The imposing statute and the temple are great sights. The visit to the Soans horticultural Farm is a highlight of this tour. In the past, guests have thoroughly enjoyed this excursion.

Recommended: Comfortable footwear, hats and sun block for protection against the sun. Footwear to be removed at the temple & no skimpy dress. It may be advisable to carry a pair of socks for the temple walk.

- Tour Duration: 4 ½ hours

- Tour can operate : Morning
- Physical activity level : High
- Wheelchair Accessible : No

Please note the climb involves 212 steps to reach the statue atop the hilllock. Comfortable footwear, hats and sun block for protection against the sun. Footwear to be removed & advisable to carry a pair of socks.

 

Inclusions:

- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle - Services of a local English speaking guide.

- All the entrance fees and camera fees.

- Light refreshments at Soan Farms.

- Credit card and bank charges.

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

FULL DAY FLAVORS OF GOA

Goa is India’s smallest state by area and the fourth smallest by population. Located in West India in the region known as the Konkan, it is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north and by Karnataka to the east and south, while the Arabian Sea forms its western coast.
 
Goa is India’s smallest state by area and the fourth smallest by population. Located in West India in the region known as the Konkan, it is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north and by Karnataka to the east and south, while the Arabian Sea forms its western coast. Flavours
 
Depart the pier and head towards Old Goa which stands testimony not only to the reality of the Portuguese rule in the country, but also to the grandeur and wealth of the city during their reign.
 
Your first visit of the day will be to the St. Cajetan Church which was modelled on St. Peter’s in Rome and built of laterite blocks and lime plastered. The façade, having two towers on either side to serve as a belfry, has Corinthian columns and pilasters supporting a pediment, and four niches, which keep the statues of the apostles. Hidden beneath the church is a crypt where the embalmed bodies of Portuguese governors were kept in lead coffins before they were shipped back to Lisbon. Forgotten for a time, the last batch was removed only in 1992.
 
Continuing, the next stop will be at the Basilica of Bom Jesus which was built by the Jesuits in the 16th century and is one of the most important churches in Goa. The embalmed body of St. Frances Xavier is enshrined here in a marble mausoleum, which is exposed to the public once every ten years. The last date this happened was in December 2014.
 
Your final visit will be to the Panjim ‘Fontainhas’ area where the walking tour will begin. The Fontainhas is the Latin Quarter built by the Portuguese and we will be able to view from the outside the church and the old villas. Later, drive through Panjim, the capital city passing through streets lined with old villas that are characteristic of Portuguese Goa.
 
Later proceed for Trpical Plantation for visit and lunch. Spices are an ever present part of Indian life - they are essential in flavoring the distinctive regional cuisines and if you keep your eyes open you will see their bright colors reflected in the ladies' saris, and decorative textiles everywhere.
 
To find out where they come from, pay a most enjoyable visit to a spice plantation. Take a guided walk through the trees see what you can identify, smell, taste, and learn about the myriad spices for which India is renowned. And what place could be more perfect for a meal? Enjoy lunch here where everything is fresh and fragrant. Don't worry, the simple, tasty food will be spiced for Western tastes, and the preparation of each will be explained. After lunch you will return to the port and your ship.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	DISTANCE & TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
00h00 - 01h30	Depart the pier for an Old Goa Churches		This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
01h30 - 02h30	Arrive in Old Goa and visit Basilica of Bom Jesus Church & St. Cajetan Church	700 meters / Flat / 04 steps
02h30 - 03h00	Depart for Panjim Latin Quarters
03h00 - 03h20	Visit around the Latin Quarters	400 meters / Flat / 15 optional steps
03h20 - 04h20	Drive to Tropical Plantation
04h20 - 05h50	Visit and lunch at Plantation
05h50 - 07h00	Return to pier

 
 

HALF DAY HIGHLIGHTS OF GOA

Proceed for St. Cajetan Church which was modelled on St. Peter’s in Rome and built of laterite blocks and lime plastered. The façade, having two towers on either side to serve as a belfry, has Corinthian columns and pilasters supporting a pediment, and four niches, which keep the statues of the apostles. Hidden beneath the church is a crypt where the embalmed bodies of Portuguese governors were kept in lead coffins before they were shipped back to Lisbon. Forgotten for a time, the last batch was removed only in 1992.
 
Continuing, the next stop will be at the Basilica of Bom Jesus which was built by the Jesuits in the 16th century and is one of the most important churches in Goa. The embalmed body of St. Frances Xavier is enshrined here in a marble mausoleum, which is exposed to the public once every ten years. The last date this happened was in December 2014. Continue with a short walk to the Se, or St Catherine’s Cathedral, which was commissioned to be "a grandiose church worthy of the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese who dominated the seas from the Atlantic to the Pacific." With its exterior Tuscan design it is still larger than any other church in Portugal and said to be the largest in Asia. 
 
Next visit will be to the Panjim ‘Fontainhas’ area where the walking tour will begin. The Fontainhas is the Latin Quarter built by the Portuguese and we will be able to view from the outside the church and the old villas. Later, drive through Panjim, the capital city passing through streets lined with old villas that are characteristic of Portuguese Goa.
 
Return to pier.
 

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	DISTANCE & TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
00h00 – 01h00	Drive to Old Goa Churches		This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
01h00 – 02h30	Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral Church and St. Cajethan Church	350 meters / Flat / 6 steps
02h30 – 03h15	Proceed for Panjim City, visit Latin quarter	450 meters / Flat  steps
03h15 – 04h15	Return to the pier

 

Goa, Shore Excursion - 4 hours

Meet at the Port of Marmugao, Goa 
(Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)

HALF DAY TOUR: 4HRS

Disembark from the ship and meet your personal guide on the pier.
 

Today the tour takes you Old Goa and start with a visit to the Basilica Bom Jesus which houses the remains of St Francis Xavier.  His tomb was the gift of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, and was carved by the Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista.  Around the silver casket are 32 plaques decorated with scenes from the saint’s life.  Nearby on “Holy Hill” is the Convent of St Cajetan, dedicated to St Catherine, on whose day Goa was recaptured.  Inside are catacombs with the embalmed bodies of Portuguese viceroys and archbishops.  Along the way, you pass several other churches you may like to visit – Se Cathedral, the largest of the churches in Old Goa and the Chapel of our Lady of the Rosary built in 1526 and a synthesis of Iberian, Hindu and Moslem styles.  At the Church and Convent of St Francis of Assisi is an interesting archeological Museum and Portrait Gallery.   In Panaji you can visit the Mahalaxmi Temple and walk in Goa’s Latin quarters – Fontainhas

You will be dropped at the pier late in the afternoon.

Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide,Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee,Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes

Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified) Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted seperately

Goa: Highlights - 5 hours

Lush and lovely Goa was created as a place for relaxation where Sun worship is a cult form. Adventure seekers can go hunting for beaches and tiny villages. There are colorful local markets, trips to Spice farms and a countryside of Portuguese and Indian culture, with warm friendly people. In quiet and complete contrast to other ports and places on the Indian sub-continent, Goa offers a quaint reflection of its colonial Portuguese past well assimilated with its democratic Indian present.

We drive to visit `Old Goa’ and the Basilica of Bom Jesus famous throughout the Catholic world. Amongst other religious edifices still standing in Old Goa is the `Se Cathedral”, the largest church in Asia, but also the site of the “Golden Bell” which announced the death – knell of burning heretics during the inquisition.

Goa’s capital, Panaji (formerly Panjim) spread along the south bank of the wide Mandovi River, in a charming sprawl of red-roofed houses, sunny squares and gardens of bougainvillea and frangipani. The newly built Nehru Bridge spans the river giving easy access to the beaches along the ocean shore to the north.

Visit Panjim town which has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere especially along the leafy avenues of its old section, retaining its Portuguese style winding streets and old houses with red tiled roofs and overhanging balconies. The streets have taverns offering Goan cuisine and “Feni” (cashew nut liquor) and bakeries serving `Bebinca’, the delicious local cake. Many residents still speak Portuguese.

Overlooking `Largo de Igreja’ or Church Square is the Church of Immaculate Conception with its Baroque façade, probably the town’s most important landmark. In 1541 Portuguese sailors began visiting this church to offer thanksgiving prayers after their long and treacherous voyage from Lisbon.

Later, explore the market before driving back to the ship.

- Tour Duration: 5 hours
- Tour can operate : Morning
- Physical activity level : Moderate
- Wheelchair Accessible : No

Inclusions:

- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle

- Services of a local English speaking guide.

- All the entrance fees and camera fees.

- Credit card and bank charges.

- All the prevailing taxes.

Goa, Shore Excursion - 6 hours

You will be met at the pier (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure). Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will set of to explore some of the important sights of Goa. 
 
Start your tour with a visit to the World Heritage-listed Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. The remains are entombed in a silver casket, which is kept in a mausoleum carved by the Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista. Continue on to Se Cathedral, a magnificent 16th-century monument and the largest church in Goa. Finally, stop at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, built in the 17th century which houses an interesting archeological Museum and Portrait Gallery. Stop for lunch at a tropical spice plantation after which, you will have time to stroll around the grounds and explore the butterfly garden in the premises.
 
You will also visit the Shri Manguesh Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the 400-year-old Shri Manguesh Temple is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in Goa, and features a 7-story Deepa Stambha (decorative lamp tower) at the gates of the temple complex. You will then visit Shree Shantadurga Temple, located in the hills and noted for its statue of the Hindu goddess Durga. 

You will then return to the port area. 
 

Inclusions: Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, private guide, complimentary soft beverages and bottled water in the car, monument entrance and still camera fee, meet and assist at all airports and hotels, porterage at airports, all current applicable taxes.

Exclusions: Expenses of any personal nature (laundry, telephone calls etc, unless specified), tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), meals (unless specified) any insurance or Visa, any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, air fare is quoted separately.

*Terms and conditions apply

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

FULL DAY MARVELS OF MUMBAI

FULL DAY
MARVELS OF MUMBAI
 
Proceed to Gateway of India, the city’s most famous landmark –an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It was originally conceived as an entry point for passengers arriving on P&O steamers from England; today it is remembered more often as the place from which the British staged their final departure. You will make a stop here for photographs.
 
See the highlights of the city from the comfort of your minivan as you set off for a tour of Mumbai city. Your tour begins with the Gateway of India (PLEASE STOP FOR A WHILE SO THE GUEST CAN TAKE PHOTO), the city's most famous landmark - an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It was originally conceived as an entry point for passengers arriving on P&O steamers from England; today it is remembered more often as the place from which the British staged their final departure.
 
Continue through Marine Drive, Mumbai's seaside promenade, an eight-lane highway with a wide pavement. Its graceful curve sweeps from the skyscrapers at Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill. This hill is Mumbai's ritziest neighborhood. Popular since the 18th century because of its forested slopes, fresh sea breezes and panoramic views, merchants and colonial governors built many mansions and bungalows on its hillsides.
 
Your drive includes a look at a most remarkable railway station. Inspired by St. Pancras Station in London, the Victoria Terminus was built during Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee year. It is an extraordinary conglomeration of domes, spires, Corinthian columns and minarets in a style that was described by journalist James Cameron as "Victorian-Gothic-Saracenic-Italianate-Oriental-St.  Pancras-Baroque". The first train in India left from this station in April 1853; today half a million commuters use the station every day.
 
Depart to Church Gate Station and spend some time watching the dabba-wallahs, the members of the Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association. Every day 4,000 of them deliver fresh, home-cooked food from 100,000 suburban kitchens to offices in the downtown area. Each lunch is prepared by a loving wife or mother, and packed into a set of stackable aluminum boxes. The meals are carried to their hungry recipients dangling from shoulder-poles and bicycle handlebars, and stacked on decorated handcarts. Tins are rarely, if ever, lost, and always find their way home again to be washed up for the next day’s lunch.
 
Even if you are not possessed of an interest in other people’s dirty laundry, you’ll be fascinated by the dhobi ghats, your next stop. Each morning washing from all over Mumbai is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten, and thrashed. The next day, after being aired, pressed, folded and wrapped, the bundles are returned from whence they came. The secret that keeps the operation running smoothly is the coded symbol that each dhobi-wallah places on every item. Invisible to the untrained eye, this mark ensures that nothing will be lost. Stop here for photos that you’ll never be able to duplicate anywhere else.
 
Proceed for Taj Mahal Hotel for Lunch on direct payment basis.
 
You will continue to The Prince of Wales Museum, crowned by a white Mughal-style dome, the finest work done by architect George Wittet, who also designed the Gateway of India.
 
Return to pier.
 
 

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	DISTANCE & TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
09h30 – 11h00	Orientation tour of Mumbai, Gateway of India, Malabar Hill and VT Station.		This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
11h00 – 11h20	Proceed to Churchgate station
11h20 – 11h40	Watch the Dabba-wallas at Churchgate	10 meters / even
11h40 – 12h15	Drive to Dhobi Ghat
12h15 – 12h45	Visit  Dhobi Ghat	100 meters / Flat / 5 steps
12h45 – 13h15	Drive to Taj Mahal Hotel for lunch on direct payment basis
13h15 – 14h15	Lunch at Taj Mahal Hotel	150 meters / Flat / 4 steps
14h15 – 15h30	Drive to Prince of wales Museum and visit
15h30 – 16h00	Return to pier	50 meters / Uneven

HALF DAY MUSEUM AND GALLERIES OF MUMBAI

HALF DAY
MUSEUM AND GALLERIES OF MUMBAI
 
Explore the history, art and people of Mumbai and India during this informative half-day visit to the area's finest museums and galleries.

Depart from pier for the drive to Mani Bhawan, Gandhi's Bombay residence between 1917 and 1934. Mani Bhawan is now a permanent museum and memorial to the Mahatma. It contains a research library of more than 20,000 volumes, and a series of tiny dioramas depicting his life story in an interesting fashion. The walls are covered with photos of historic events and noteworthy people.

Next, visit the Prince of Wales Museum, easily recognized by its unique white Mughal-style dome. The museum is the finest work by architect George Wittet, who also designed the Gateway of India. It houses interesting displays of jade work, antique weapons, Indian paintings, illustrated manuscripts, exquisite miniatures, and clay and terracotta figures from the 3rd century B.C. Adjacent to Prince of Wales Museum, you will find the Jehangir Art Gallery. Mumbai's best-known venue for contemporary art, Jehangir is home to five small galleries displaying changing exhibits of 20^th century arts and crafts from around the world.

Return to pier.
 

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	DISTANCE / TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
00h00 – 00h30	Pier to Mani Bhawan		This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
00h30 – 01h00	Arrive and visit Mani Bhawan	20 steps/ Uneven Terrain
01h00 – 01h30	Leave for Prince of Wales Museum
01h30 – 02h30	Arrive and visit Prince of Wales Museum	50 steps/flat Terrain
02h30 – 02h35	Walk down to adjacent Jahangir Art Gallery
02h35 – 03h20	Arrive and visit Jahangir Art Museum	15 steps/ flat Terrain
03h20 – 04h00	Back to pier

 

FULL DAY THE CAVES OF ELEPHANTA

FULL DAY
THE CAVES OF ELEPHANTA
 
More than a thousand years ago, Hindu craftsmen carved columns and sculptures out of a series of caves located on an island off the shores of Mumbai, creating a temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Portuguese named the island Elephanta, after the large statue of an elephant they found near the spot where they docked their ships. Come and discover the unique beauty and intriguing tales of these temple caves with today’s memorable excursion.
 
Travel by minivan vehicle to the Gateway of India, the city’s most recognized landmark. Built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the archway was originally conceived as an entry point for people arriving on steamers from England. Today, the gateway serves as a launching point for your own exploration of the Elephanta Temple.
 
Boarding a motor boat, enjoy the approximately one hour and thirty minutes cruise to the Elephanta landing. From the jetty you have the option of either taking the mini train or walking approximately 15 minutes to the base of the long stairway which leads to the top of the hill, where the caves are located. As you enter, you will see a magnificent sculpture of Shiva as Nataraj, showing an enraptured expression as he removes the veil of ignorance. The most outstanding sculpture is a bust of Trimurti—the three-faced Shiva representing the Hindu trinity, Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. In other panels, Shiva is depicted in service to humanity as he brings the River Ganges to Earth, and at his most fearsome as he crushes the demon of Andhaka. Later, board the motor boat for return cruise to the Gateway.

Re-board your vehicle for the transfer back to your ship.
 
 

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	DISTANCE & TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
00h00 - 00h15	Depart from the pier by minivan to the Gateway of India		This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
00h15 - 01h45	Board the motor boat and cruise to Elephanta Island
01h45 - 03h45	Arrive and visit Elephanta Island	1.5km / Uneven, cobblestones / 125 long steps each way
03h45 - 05h15	Board your motor boat and return to Mumbai
05h15 – 05h30	Return to the pier

 

FULL DAY THE VICTORIAN PAST

Experience the highlights of this fascinating city, with its Western monuments and Eastern sensibilities.

Begin your tour with photo stop at the Gateway of India, the city’s most famous landmark an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.

Next visit, The Church of St John the Evangelist better known as Afghan Church in South Mumbai, built by the British to commemorate the dead of the disastrous First Afghan War of 1838. The church is located in Navy Nagar in the Colaba area of Mumbai. Besides British soldiers it also commemorates different Indian regiments, such as the Bombay Army, the Madras Army, and Ranjit Singh's army from Lahore.

Drive along Marine Drive-Mumbai’s seaside promenade, an eight-lane highway with a wide pavement. Its graceful curve sweeps from the skyscrapers at Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill, Mumbai’s ritziest neighborhood. At the top of hill are the Hanging Gardens, laid out in 1881. Here, an assortment of hedges, trimmed into animal shapes. The gardens also offer a superb view of the bustling city centre in the distance.

You then proceed to Bhau Daji Lad Museum (formerly the Victoria and Albert Museum) one of the oldest museums in Mumbai. It was established in 1855 as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts. The museum houses a large number of archaeological finds, maps and historical photographs of Mumbai.

You then visit, Crawford Market - one of South Mumbai's most famous markets. It is named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal Commissioner of the city. The market is situated near to Victoria Terminus railway station. The market houses a wholesale fruit, vegetable and poultry market.

Finally, visit and savor a relaxing lunch while exploring the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which dates back to the 1500s before returning back to the ship.
 

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	DISTANCE / TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
00h00 – 00h10	Leave from pier to Gateway of India		This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
00h10 – 00h15	Arrive at Gateway of India (photo stop only)	10 steps/ flat Terrain
00h15 – 00h30	Leave for Afghan Church
00h30 – 01h00	Arrive and visit Afghan Church	4 steps/ flat Terrain
01h00 – 01h30	Leave for Hanging Gardens
01h30 – 02h00	Arrive and visit Hanging Gardens	2 steps/ Uneven Terrain
02h00 – 02h15	Leave for Victoria & Albert Museum
11h15 – 12h00	Arrive and visit Victoria & Albert Museum	5 steps/ Uneven Terrain
03h00 – 03h15	Leave for Crawford market
03h15 – 03h45	Arrive and visit market	Uneven Terrain
03h45 – 03h15	Leave for hotel Taj Mahal	10 steps/ flat Terrain
04h15 – 05h45	Arrive at hotel and proceed for lunch (On Direct Payment)
05h45 – 06h00	Back to pier

Mumbai: 9 hours

With a population exceeding 18 million, this one time group of low lying mud flats is now India’s economic power base and her most industrialized city, bustling with activity of incredible diversity and complexity, her color and elegance, her wealth corresponding with her historic struggle against poverty. Certain affluent areas give Bombay an air of mini–Manhattan!
 

8:30am - 9:30am:  
Depart   the   pier for the famous Gateway of India en route to Banganga. This Indo-Saracenic archway was built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, and is the city's most famous landmark.

We then proceed to Banganga via Art Deco Marine Drive also called the Queens Necklace at night due to its curve shape around the bay.
 

9:30am - 10:30am
Walk around Banganga, the sacred tank surrounded by four hundred-year-old temples and modern skyscrapers. Nowhere are Bombay’s paradoxes more evident than at Banganga. Part of an ancient temple complex, the water in this tank is believed to come from the Holy Ganges. It sprung forth when Rama, the exiled hero of the epic Ramayana stopped at the spot five thousand years ago, in search of his kidnapped wife Sita. Overcome with fatigue and thirst, he asked his brother Laxman to bring him some water. Laxman instantly shot an arrow into the ground, and water gushed forth from the Ganga, over a thousand miles away. Although the story is the stuff of legend, the tank has always been sacred. On pious occasions, thousands turn up to take a ritual dip in its mossy waters, and offer flowers at the ancient Banganga Temples.
 

10:30am - 10:50am
Drive to Dhobi Ghat.
 

10:50 - 11:15
Visit the `Dhobi Ghat’, the city’s open-air laundry! where “Dhobis’ (washermen) attend to an astounding quantity of washing daily. Clothes, linen, towels… are washed in small open air cubicles rented out each day. An itemized account is logged in a notebook and clothes collected from households are returned a week later. Through the apparent chaos incredibly nothing gets lost from a countless number of pieces and most clothes somehow survive the beating they receive on the washing stones.
 

11:15pm - 11:45pm 
Drive to Churchgate Railway Station.
 

11:45am - 12:15pm
We stop at the Churchgate Railway Station to see the `Dabbawallahs’, members of the Bombay Union of Tiffin Box Carriers, described by Prince Charles as the symbol of this enigmatic and intriguing city.  Each morning, the 2500 dabbawallahs call on suburban housewives who pack a freshly cooked lunch into small circular aluminum or stainless steel containers - `dabbas’.  Typically the dabbawallahs collect 30-40 boxes, range them out on a long pole and cycle to the nearest station. Here he hands them over to a fellow dabbawallah who then transports them into the city for delivery to the consumer.  Over 100,000 lunches of maybe sabze (vegetable curry), chapattis (Indian bread), dal (lentils) and pickle, make their way daily across town to the breadwinner and back again. The service which costs a few rupees a week, is a good example of the fine division of labor in India, reliable and efficient for the dabbawallahs pride themselves on never losing a lunch.
 

12:15pm - 12:30pm
Drive to `Khyber’ restaurant for lunch which specializes in the Northwest frontier cuisine.
 

12:30pm - 2:00pm
Lunch (on own)
 

2:00pm - 2:30pm
Drive to Mani Bhawan passing through the teeming commercial areas, Crawford Market and many handsome buildings of Victorian Bombay, including the University and Victoria Terminus. 
 

2:30pm - 3:15pm
Visit the Gandhi Museum. Located on leafy Laburnum Road, a quiet lane named after its shady trees, Mani Bhavan is the old Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It's a pretty, two-storied structure that now houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo exhibition of the Mahatma's life, and well preserved memorabilia, including an old charkha or spinning wheel that Gandhiji used to use. 
 

3:15pm - 4:45pm
Before returning  to the  pier, we spend some time where it all began, where the  tide of  human life rolls down the center of the street, unruffled by vehicles from all quarters ploughing their way through it. No visit to Bombay is complete without a foray into the bazaars of Bhuleshwar.  The city’s densest concentration of lifestyle and retail jewelry stores is a crush of shop fronts, street stalls, hawkers and handicrafts and a seething mass of people. It may look like absolute chaos but the areas are closely knit, and cohesively built around the traditional residential complex, temples, flower markets, community halls, cow shelter and bazaars. Within a few square kilometers there are a dozen bazaars and more commodities for sale than you will see probably anywhere else in a lifetime.

 

4: 45  -  5:30
Drive back to the ship.

Added Value:

-     A good overview of the unique aspects of this unique city.

- Tour Duration: 8 – 9 hours

- Tour can operate : Morning

- Physical activity level : Moderate

- Wheelchair Accessible : No

Inclusions:
- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle 
- Services of a local English speaking guide.
- All the entrance fees and camera fees.
- Credit card and bank charges.
- All the prevailing taxes.  

Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 4 hours

You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure). Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will set of to explore India’s most cosmopolitan city and financial nerve centre – Mumbai.

You will first explore the Fort area of Mumbai – Kala Ghoda, literally Black Horse – a neighborhood in South Mumbai. The crescent-shaped precinct is the city’s premier art district. You will drive past a large number of the city’s heritage buildings, full of museums, art galleries and educational institutions like the Jehangir Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (previously called the Prince of Wales Museum) and The Arts Trust.
 
You will end your tour with a visit to Mani Bhavan. As poignant as it is tiny, this museum is in the building where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during visits to Bombay from 1917 to 1934.  The museum showcases the room where the leader formulated his philosophy of Satyagraha (non-violent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign that led to the end of British rule and Indian independence.  
 
Stop for a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant before you return to the port area.

Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee, Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes

Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified), Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted separately. 

*Terms and conditions apply
 

Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 6 hours

You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure). Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will set of to explore India’s most cosmopolitan city and financial nerve centre – Mumbai.
 
Your first stop will be to take pictures at Dhobi Ghat, a sight unique to this city. ‘Dhobi Ghat’ or “washerfolks’ place”, is the world's largest outdoor laundry, and where Mumbai's traditional washer-folk - or dhobis - provide a wonderful service, collecting dirty laundry, washing it, and returning it neatly pressed, all for a very small fee.
 
Drive to Churchgate Station where you get the opportunity to see the famed ‘dabbawallas’ or ‘lunch box carriers’ in action.  The Mumbai dabbawallas are international figures now, thanks to Forbes Global. The Forbes story details the efficiency with which they deliver the dabbas or lunch pails of their customers. Around 5,000 dabbawallas collect and deliver 175,000 lunches every day and take the empty boxes back. Their operation has a six sigma rating which implies less than 3.4 errors in every million transactions. This is the same rating that has made companies like Motorola and GE world famous for their quality!
 
Later you will visit Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum, a structure steeped in Indian history and culture. Built in Renaissance revival style in 1872 as the Victoria & Albert Museum, it contains 3,500-plus objects centering on Mumbai’s history. This landmark building was renovated in 2008.
 
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before you continue on your tour.
 
You will end your tour with a visit to Mani Bhavan. As poignant as it is tiny, this museum is in the building where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during visits to Bombay from 1917 to 1934.  The museum showcases the room where the leader formulated his philosophy of Satyagraha (non-violent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign that led to the end of British rule and Indian independence.  
 
You will then return to the port area.
 

Inclusions: Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, private guide, complimentary soft beverages and bottled water in the car, monument entrance and still camera fee, meet and assist at all airports and hotels, porterage at airports, all current applicable taxes.

Exclusions: Expenses of any personal nature (laundry, telephone calls etc, unless specified), tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), meals (unless specified) any insurance or Visa, any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, air fare is quoted separately.

*Terms and conditions apply

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Private Abu Dhabi City Tour - Fully day 10 - 12 hours

Sightseeing highlights of the capital
Get ready to explore the rich culture and world-renowned landmarks of Abu Dhabi during this full-day city tour of the incredible capital of the UAE. This is your chance to
learn about the fascinating heritage of the country as well as experience all the iconic sights that make Abu Dhabi the cultural hub we know today.
 
Inclusions

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Drive through Yas Island
• Ticket to Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Scenic Abu Dhabi Corniche drive
• Admission to Emirates Palace and gold dust coffee
• Entry to Observation at Conrad at Etihad Towers with light snack (F&B is limited to one piece of cake (selection of the day) and tea or coffee
• Admission to Qasr Al Watan
• Picturesque drive in Al Bateen
• Visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

• Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above, Children are 3-11.99 years, Infants 0-35

• Good to Know
• Inclusive of all entry fees + food and beverages
• Additional snacks along the tour can be provisioned at guests own expense
• Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00am, but no later than 9am. The duration of the tour is about 12 hours
• We advise to wear comfortable shoes and all guests must adhere to the local dress code requirements (modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered). We also recommend wearing sunblock, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the summer
• months
• Observe the mosque's dress code (details found on the website)
• The tour runs every day except on Mondays and public holidays

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

The Highlights of Dubai - Full day tour

Introducing Highlights of Dubai
Witness  all of Dubai's bucket list attractions on one tour
Experience the best of the best of what Dubai has to offer! Embark on this awe-inspiring Dubai city tour, taking you to the most historic landmarks from Dubai’s past and the world-famous attractions of modern Dubai. The Highlights of Dubai tour is an
ideal way to experience the best of Dubai’s past, present and future!

Inclusions

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Photo stop at Jumeirah Mosque
• Drive by the Union House Flag
• Photo stops at Museum of the Future, Zabeel Palace and the Dubai Frame
• Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• Take an abra ride across the creek
• Visit the Gold and Spice Souqs
• Stop at Souk Madinat (lunch will be paid for directly by the guests)
• Palm Monorail ticket
• Ticket to The View along with beverage
• Photo stop at Ain Dubai
• Visit the Dubai Mall
• Ticket to At the Top, Burj Khalifa

 
Amendments / Cancellations policy: For a full refund cancel 72 hours in advance.
Except for tours with The View, partial refunds (dependant on attractions refund policy).
No-shows and late cancellations are non-refundable. Amendments to services provided
by our company cannot be accepted within 24 hours prior to the scheduled service time.
If an amendment is made, it must be confirmed with an Arabian Adventures agent,
otherwise the service may be delivered as originally reserved
 
Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above, Children are 3-11.99 years, Infants 0-35 months
 
Languages: Chinese, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, Italian, Arabic, French, German, Spanish, English (all subject to availability)
 
Good To Know
 
Inclusive of all entry fees + beverages
Lunch stop along the tour can be provisioned at guests own expense
Currently only available as an exclusive tour
Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00am. The tour takes about 10-12 hours
We advise to wear comfortable shoes and all guests must adhere to the local dress code requirements (modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered)
We also recommend wearing sunblock, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the summer months
 

Taste of Dubai

Embark on a culinary journey in Dubai
If you’re looking to take your taste buds on an adventure around the globe, Dubai is the perfect destination for you. Join our Taste of Dubai tour, to learn about traditional Arabic dishes and the importance gastronomy holds in the Emirati culture. Get ready to add some flavour to your visit!

Inclusions

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Enjoy a lemon-mint drink at XVA Café at XVA Gallery
• Try delicious starters at Bayt Al Wakeel restaurant
• Indulge in a camel burger at Local House Restaurant
• Enjoy Arabic Coffee and local sweets at Arabian Teahouse
• Explore Old Dubai

 
Amendments / Cancellations policy: For a full refund cancel 72 hours in advance. No-shows and late cancellations are non-refundable. Amendments to services provided by
our company cannot be accepted within 24 hours prior to the scheduled service time. If an amendment is made, it must be confirmed with an Arabian Adventures agent,
otherwise the service may be delivered as originally reserved
 
Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above, Children are 3-11.99 years, Infants 0-35 months
 
Languages: English & Spanish 
 
Good to Know
 
Tour is inclusive of food and beverages. Any additional items not mentioned can be provisioned at guests own expense.
Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 4:30pm
The duration of the tour is 4 hours
We advise to wear comfortable shoes and all guests must adhere to the local dress code requirements (modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered)
We also recommend wearing sunblock, sunglasses and a hat, especially during the summer months
The tour runs seven days a week

Dubai - Private Desert Safari Experience - 6 hours or more

Get ready to experience the desert like never before. Leave the buzzing city behind as you’re whisked off to the beautiful and peaceful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, ready to deliver the best of what the dunes have to offer. Enjoy a thrilling dune drive, spotting local wildlife along the way, snap unbeatable photos at sunset, find your
balance on a camel or a sandboard and have your hands decorated in Henna to help the memories last longer.
As you reach the magical campsite, you’re in for an evening full of awe-inspiring local entertainment and a delicious barbeque dinner under the stars, accompanied by your preferred package of adult beverages. Sit back, relax and indulge in delectable foods and mesmerising performances.

Inclusions

• Pick-up and drop-off in a shared/private vehicle in a 4 wheel drive (Land cruiser or similar)
• Dune drive
• Sunset stop
• Modern Bedouin-style camp
• Enjoy a variety of entertainment: Camel ride, sandboarding, henna hand painting,
• Arabian Adventures Fire and Dance Show
• BBQ dinner
• Unlimited soft drinks
• Option to add an adult beverage packages ( House or Premium beverages)

Definitions

Sharing means: Transfers to the camp will be shared with other guests. Table seating
is shared
Private means: Transfers to the camp will be private. Table seating is shared
Age Policy: Adults are 12 years & above and Children are 5 -11.99 years
 
To book children 2-4.99 years or under 135cm, please book Evening Desert Safari
Private Vehicle and enter details on infants
Language: English (other languages can be arranged at an additional cost)
 
Departures: Daily and available all year round
 
Duration: Late afternoon until early evening ( estimated departure at 3pm with estimated return at 9pm)

Good To Know

• Souvenirs and photos are available for purchase at the campsite
• Restrooms are available at the campsite
• Shisha is included in the Premium package.  Shisha is available for purchase on the Soft and House package (AED 50) per shisha at the venue
• Modest dress and comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• A portion of your fee goes towards supporting local conservation
• Entertainment may vary during Ramadan and other religious holidays and adult beverages will be served only after sunset. 
• Beverage package: Soft drinks beverages are available on site with the option to purchase selected drinks on site House Packages include standard house wines and beer. Premium packages includes premium wines and beers and selected spirits. All packages include unlimited soft drinks and water
• Arabian Adventures reserves the right to cease service of alcohol to guests who display obvious signs of intoxication
• Please note there is a fuel surcharge for Desert Safaris that take place in Dubai, where the guest pick up is from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al-Khaimah and Fujairah. The surcharge is AED 100 per person
• For pregnant ladies or people with pre-existing medical conditions (including heart ailments neck or back problems) participation is not recommend
• Please contact our team for special needs and arrangements