World Academy: Discover South America, Hawaii, Japan & Beyond

After transferring to the hotel for check-in, take some time to freshen up and relax. The Road Scholar educational program consists of lectures and presentations exclusively for our group as well as educational field trips selected by Road Scholar from among the ship’s shore excursions. These Road Scholar expert-led field trips, included in the cost of the program, will typically be for the members of our group aboard our own designated vehicles (depending on group size). We’re still putting the finishing touches on this program’s lectures and expert-led field trips ashore. In the event of any significant changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

At the hotel.

At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

At the hotel.

Orientation at 10:00 a.m. In our private meeting room, the Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions.We will check out of the hotel this morning, and transfer to the ship for embarkation. This is a Road Scholar Adventures Afloat program. Port stops are subject to change as weather and ocean conditions could affect the progress of the vessel. The cruise itinerary should therefore be regarded as provisional. The time in each port is set by the cruise line. The cruise line reserves the right change the itinerary without prior notice.

Lunch available onboard at the Lido restaurant until 4pm.

We will have some time to unpack and begin to familiarize ourselves with the ship. We will participate with everyone on board in the ship’s muster drill when announced and proceed to our assigned muster stations.

Aboard ship. Each evening aboard the ship, Road Scholar participants are invited to have dinner together with your Group Leader. Included beverages are coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase. Other dining options are available for an extra cost onboard the ship.

At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars and enjoy the amenities on board the ship.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the ship’s daily program for a list of activities.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The Road Scholar educational program consists of lectures and presentations exclusively for our group as well as designated field trips selected by Road Scholar from among the ship’s shore excursions. Road Scholar field trips will typically be for the members of our group aboard our own vehicles. There will also be occasions when Road Scholars will join other Holland America passengers for shore excursions.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will board our motorcoach for a drive through Scarborough to Fort King George. The fort was built in the 1770s and was occupied until the late 1800s. Today it features fantastic panoramic views and a museum that displays weapons and pre-Columbian artifacts. We will continue along the Windward Coast Road, passing through several villages, to the Pembroke Heritage Park for a guided discovery. On the way to the restaurant, we will stop at a picturesque overlook.

At a local restaurant.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Scarborough or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Scarborough at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Devils Island.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board the tender and go ashore to Devils Island. We will have free time to discover the island on your own. Devil's Island, part of a three-island chain called Îles du Salut, in French Guiana, was home to one of the most infamous—and impregnable—prisons of the 19th and 20th centuries. Opened in 1852, it received worldwide renown in the mid-1890s when French military captain Alfred Dreyfus was sentenced to life imprisonment after being wrongly convicted of selling military secrets to Germany. Although Dreyfus's sentence was commuted after five years, more than 80,000 political prisoners and hardened criminals endured years of mistreatment and abuse among disease-ridden conditions. Few were able to escape, though Henri Charrière, author of the book Papillon, allegedly succeeded by filling sacks with coconuts in order to float to the mainland. The prison was officially closed in 1953. In 1965, the French government transferred responsibility of the island to the Guiana Space Centre, and in recent years, tourism facilities have been added. Devil's Island and its two smaller neighboring islands receive more than 50,000 visitors each year.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Devil's Island at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Alter Do Chao, Brazil.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. We will be crossing the Amazon River bar today. After traveling some 6,400 kilometers (4,000 miles), the Amazon River finally arrives at the Atlantic Ocean.This section of the world’s largest river measured by volume is often referred to as its “bar,” a name used to describe the mouths of other rivers as well. The delta here is a maze of islands, formed by the sediment that accumulates when the Amazon enters the ocean. The largest island in this area is Ilha de Marajó, which measures 40,100 square kilometers (15,500 square miles). That’s roughly equivalent to three Connecticuts or one Switzerland.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

The ship will stop in Macapa for a service call only, we will not be going ashore. We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. We will cross the equator, hemisphere to hemisphere, there is nothing quite as romantic as slipping, in the blink of an eye, from one side of globe to the other, made possible by the mere act of crossing the Equator. We also continue cruising the Amazon River.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning, we will board our motorcoach with our group leader, on our way to Santarem, we will ride through rural Brazil crossing the forest and small villages along the way. After arriving in Santarem, we will visit the town centre and Cathedral of Our Lady of Conceição - the oldest building in Santarém, dating back to 1761. Then, we will pass by Fishermen's Square on our way to the next stop , the Joao Fona Cultural Center. This historic building, dating back to 1868, has served as Santarem’s courthouse, prison and city hall. Today, it houses the Cultural Center, which features a small but exquisite collection of pre-Columbian pottery and Tapajo ceramics, as well as paintings and furniture from Santarem’s early days. Our final stop will be the Mirante Square (Belvedere ) to watch the meeting of the waters of the Amazon and Tapajos rivers.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Alter Do Chao or or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Alter Do Chao at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Boca Da Valeria, Brazil.

Aboard ship.

We will board the tender and go ashore to Boca Da Valeria and enjoy some free time on our own. Surrounded by the Amazonian rain forest, Boca da Valeria, a small Brazilian settlement of fewer than 100 people, has no tourism infrastructure. The destination lures travelers by offering an authentic glimpse of the simple river life that the Amerindians have followed for centuries. Meaning "Mouth of the Valeria River," the remote fishing and trading village sits at the convergence of the Amazon and the Rio da Valeria. Boca da Valeria, which is located between the towns of Parintins and Santarém, stands in stark contrast to nearby urban centers such as Manaus, where residents live with all the comforts, and complications, of contemporary life.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Boca Da Valeria at 2:00 p.m. on our journey to Manaus.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning, we will board our motorcoach with our group leader and ride to "Adolpho Lisboa Market", also called Mercado Municipal or Mercadão (big market). It was constructed between 1880 and 1883. The building was based on the Les Halles marketplace of Paris, France. Its metallic structures were built in Paris and sent to Manaus by ship. There are two completely different façades, one facing the Rio Negro and one facing the public road. As a significant historical and architectural building of the city, the Municipal Market also stands out today as a cultural center. The market is one of the largest open markets in the city of Manaus, offering fresh fruits, spices, fish, and traditional indigenous medications among other products.

At a local restaurant.

Continuing our field trip, we will set out on a walking discovery to explore the world-renowned Teatro Amazonas, the Amazon Theater. At the end of the 19th century, rubber trade and plantation owners and other moguls became fabulously rich. They hired architects and artists in an effort to transform Manaus into the “Paris of the Tropics.” The focal point was a grand opera house, the Teatro Amazonas. Construction began in 1884 and no expense was spared with materials imported from Europe. Enrico Caruso, then the most famous singer in the world, inaugurated the theater with a performance in 1897. We will step inside the theater to learn why its Renaissance-style architecture gave it a reputation as the “Jewel of the Amazon.” The ship is scheduled leave Manaus at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Parintins.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

The ship is scheduled to arrive in Parintins at 10:00 a.m. Upon arrival, we will board the tender and go ashore to Parintins. Once we reach port, we will board local tricycles (each tricycle takes 2 participants), decorated by the locals for a unique discovery of the city. We will start outside the port to see the major highlights; cycle by the club of Caprichoso Boi, the Liberty square and to the Bumbódromo where the annual Festival is held, here we will have a short visit of this area. Continue to the Cathedral and ride along the shore back to port in our tricycle's.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Parintins or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Parintins at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Santarem, Brazil.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will board our motorcoach with our group leader and ride south on the Santarém-Cuiabá Highway, the only road connecting this part of the Amazon with other points in Brazil. Different stages of "slash and burn" agriculture and the effect it has on the forest and land can be observed on this stretch of road as well as large soya plantations. After approximately 1hr 15 min. on the road, we will reach Tapajos National Forest where we will enjoy a nature walk with a local expert where we will see the biodiversity of the area.

Bagged lunch included.

We will continue our discovery of Tapajos National Forest before returning to port. The ship is scheduled to leave Santarem at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Saint Georges, Grenada.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach with our group leader and enjoy a scenic island drive, we will head through the quaint capital of St George’s, past Government House, through St. Paul’s and to the parish of St. David’s, where plantations of cocoa and spices abound. Continuing up the eastern side of the island, we will visit two seaside villages; Marquis and Grenville. At Marquis, the local people weave the abundant pandanus grasses into crafts of all sorts. Soubise is a main source of the locally built, brightly painted fishing boats that dot the beaches and seas of Grenada. At Grenville, the commercial center of the East Coast, visit a nutmeg station to see processing of Grenada’s fragrant crops. We will then turn inland to ascend the central peaks to the National Park Nature Center at Grand Etang -- resting at 1,900 feet above sea level in the crater of an extinct volcano.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Saint Georges or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Saint Georges at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Willemstad, Curacao.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach with our group leader and set out on a relaxing panoramic drive through the Otrobanda section of Willemstad. Founded in 1707, Otrobanda is the newer section of the city and its name translates to ‘other side’. We will see a lovely array of historic mansions as we drive past the Queen Emma Bridge -- the famous floating bridge that connects both sides of Willemstad. Traveling over another famous bridge, the Queen Juliana Bridge, is an exhilarating experience. This is the tallest bridge in the Caribbean, we will find ourselves 185 feet above sea level with expansive views of the city and harbor below. Next stop is Chobolobo -- the Dutch colonial country estate where the famous Curaçao liqueur has been distilled since 1946. It is created from the peel of the Valencia oranges planted by the Spaniards when they first arrived. The family has been producing Blue Curaçao since 1886. During a guided exploration of the distillery, we will gain an understanding of the process and will have an opportunity to sample the liqueur, distilled in 100-year-old barrels. Our last stop of the morning is at an Aloe Vera Farm where we will learn about the process of making a number of healthy aloe products and have an opportunity to taste aloe juice.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Willemstad or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Willemstad at 6:00 p.m. on our journey through the Panama Canal.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. Today we will be transiting the Panama Canal. The construction of the Panama Canal is one of those epic tales from the past, an old-school feat of engineering, ambition and courage. A cruise along it today is a journey through the centuries, from the Spanish fortifications near Limón Bay to the glittering skyline of Panama City, not to mention the canal itself. In 2016 an expansion more than doubled the canal's capacity, ensuring it will continue to be central to the world's maritime traffic.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Upon arrival at the pier, we will meet our local expert, board our motorcoach and ride to a family-owned, organic spice farm to learn about sustainable agriculture and the history behind many treasured spices such as vanilla, cinnamon, turmeric, allspice, and cacao. At Villa Vainilla we will accompany a farm representative on a walk through a botanical spice garden, stopping at various plants and trees to learn about their origins and how they are grown, harvested, and prepared for packaging. During our visit we will smell, touch, and taste spices; savoring complex flavors in sample treats prepared at the farm.

At a local restaurant.

Our bus will drop us off at the dock, then we’ll climb aboard covered river boats and begin to motor quietly along the mangrove channels. During our journey we will learn from expert naturalists about the importance of this threatened ecosystem as a barrier against storm surges and erosion, a nursery for myriad species, and much more! Our leisurely ride will allow us to look for wildlife hiding in the brackish water and sun-dappled forests lining the estuary banks. Keep watch for caimans, crocodiles, turtles, monkeys, and a large variety of birds. Concluding our mangrove adventure we’ll climb aboard the bus and ride back to the Quepos port for embarkation on our ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Quepos at 4:00 p.m. on our journey to Manzanillo, Mexico.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

The ship is scheduled to arrive in Manzanillo at 12:00 p.m. Once the ship arrives in port, we will board our motorcoach for a discovery of local communities. Our exploration begins in Comala -- a charming, 500-year-old community in the shadow of two volcanoes. Enjoy a Mexican botana (snack lunch) and a beverage at a sidewalk café next to the central plaza. We will then enjoy a scenic 1- to 1.5-hour drive to the Plaza Principal -- the main square of Colima city. Finish our afternoon at the Pyramids of La Campana -- small, tiered pyramids and archaeological ruins dating back to the first century. Have some time here to explore.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Manzanillo at 9:00 p.m. on our journey to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach with our group leader and ride to a local Cacao farm where we will learn all about chocolate-making. Next, a local expert will take us to some local shops to gather all the ingredients we’ll need to cook an authentic Mexican lunch.

We will meet up with a local chef who will host an interactive cooking class and show us how to make mole, fresh salsa, and tortillas. Then, We'll get to enjoy this delicious lunch (paired with local tequila and mezcal) alongside breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre mountains.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Puerto Vallarta at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Kona, Hawaii.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board the tender and go ashore to Kona, the ship is scheduled to arrive in port at 10:00 a.m. We will board our motorcoach and drive to Royal Kona Coffee Center with an opportunity to sample freshly brewed Kona coffee and see coffee trees. We will then head to Kona's Painted Church, set in a quiet country village and known for its dramatic murals. We will then travel to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, or the Place of Refuge. This well maintained National Historical Park was a refuge where absolution would be granted for ancient Hawaiian law-breakers and vanquished warriors if they were fortunate enough to get here ahead of their pursuers. Today, the park features attractive grounds and interesting displays of Hawaiian artifacts.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Kona or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Kona at 8:00 p.m. on our journey to Hilo, Hawaii.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will depart via motorcoach with our group leader from the Hilo pier. Our first stop will be the Hilo Farmer's Market, located in the historic downtown. The farmers market is filled with a variety of tropical fruits, flowers, and locally made foods. Next, we will visit Rainbow Falls, walk a paved path through the forest to get the best views of the 80-foot falls that pour over a natural lava cave into the river below. Our final stop of the morning is Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. We will enjoy a guided nature walk with a local expert (wear sturdy walking shoes, bring a hat or visor, rain jacket or umbrella, light jacket or sweater, long pants for safety in walking over rough lava, water bottle, sunscreen, camera).

At a local restaurant.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Hilo or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Hilo at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Honolulu, Hawaii.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will board our motorcoach with our group leader and drive through historic downtown Honolulu passing sights including: Iolani Palace, Ali'iolani Hale (the judiciary), Mission Houses Museum, Kawaiaha'o Church, and the State Capitol. We will then drive through the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Punchbowl (Puowaina) Crater. We will then arrive at Pearl Harbor National Memorial for a self-guided audio exploration. Due to strict rules, no interpretation is allowed to be given within the park. National Park staff will be onsite and can provide interpretation.NOTE: USS Arizona: Tickets for the boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial are limited and are not guaranteed for our group members in advance. There is a stand-by line available for those looking to take the boat ride out to the USS Arizona Memorial without a ticket. If you would like ensure a ticket in advance, you may purchase one for yourself directly on www.recreation.gov for $1. Please be aware that boat rides out to the USS Arizona Memorial are sometimes suspended or cancelled due to high winds or strong water currents. This decision is made by the U.S. Navy, which operates the boats to the memorial, and is for the safety of all guests.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch, we will ride to the Bishop Museum. The Bishop Museum is the State Museum of Natural and Cultural History dedicated to telling the story of Hawaii and its place in the Pacific.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Honolulu at 11:00 p.m. on our journey to Guam.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. We will cross the International Date Line today. Travelers flying or cruising across the Pacific Ocean get to experience the only-one-place-in-the-world feeling of adding or losing a day within the span of a second. The International Date Line is the longitudinal boundary between where one day starts (to the west) and another day ends (to the east). It runs roughly along the 180th meridian of longitude in the middle of the ocean—with some exceptions in the southern Pacific, where sovereign islands opted for one side over the other for commercial reasons. The Date Line was initially proposed by astronomers from 25 countries at a conference in 1884, but took until the early 1900s to become standardized globally. After a few adjustments, the position of the Date Line was formalized in 1921.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will head out by motorcoach to explore this beautiful island with a unique mix of American, Pacific and Spanish cultures. We will begin our exploration at Gaan Point, part of the southern landing site of the US forces in the liberation of Guam on July 21, 1944. A Japanese inscription can be seen today in the concrete blockhouse. Our next stop is the Mount Alifan Units, site of a former Japanese command post, it contains the remains of bomb craters, fox holes, and trenches.

At a local restaurant.

We will continue on to the city of Hagåtña where we will see some of the cultural and historic sites such as: Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica, Plaza de Espana, Latte Stone Park, Skinner Plaza, and the old Legislature Building before returning to the port. The ship is scheduled to leave Guam at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Saipan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Saipan is the largest and most populous island in the Mariana Islands archipelago—a tropical paradise of 14 islands strung across the western Pacific. This morning we will drive by motorcoach with our group leader to stop at historic sites on the Northern side of the island including: Banzai Cliff, Last Command Post, Suicide Cliff, Bird Island, and Capital Hill.

At the beach.

After lunch, we will continue our discovery and visit the Old Japanese Jail and the NMI Museum of History and Culture. The mission of the Museum is to acquire, preserve, interpret, and exhibit artifacts and other historical materials to increase public awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the rich history and cultural traditions of the Northern Marianas, a history that dates back nearly 4,000 years. We will then ride to the American Memorial Park which honors the sacrifices of American military personnel and island residents involved in the World War II Marianas Campaign. In mid-1944, thousands lost their lives fighting over the strategic island of Saipan. The park is now a "living memorial" and place of remembrance. We will head back to port. The ship is scheduled to leave Saipan at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Ishigaki Island, Japan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will board our motorcoach and head to Kabira Bay, a picture-perfect landscape with powder-white sands, dense vegetation and waters in mesmerizing shades of turquoise and emerald. We will discover the bay’s underwater treasures by glass-bottom boat (weather permitting), enjoying the opportunity to see brilliantly colored fish, giant clams and coral reefs in the transparent waters. We will then drive to Ishigaki Yaima Village, where old traditional houses have been moved from elsewhere on the island and reassembled to create an open-air museum. Strolling through the village, we will get a true sense of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon on Ishigaki Island or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Ishigaki Island at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Naha, Japan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will drive by motorcoach to discover Naha's history during World War II. First we will stop at the former Japanese Navy Underground Head Quarters which is in the underground shelter and is an historical site. At the end of the war, Commander Minoru Ohta and other officers committed suicide in the shelter and it has not been changed since. We will then head to Peace Memorial Park which is the area where the last confrontations of the Battle of Okinawa took place. Our last stop will be Himeyuri Tower, which commemorates the fate of female high school students who worked in army field hospitals in caves under horrendous conditions. Most of them did not survive the war.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Naha or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will stretch our legs as we walk through the Gangala Valley, a working excavation site with human pre-historic remains dating back some 18,000 years. We will walk past the walking Banyan tree and see the caves which have a history that our guides will explain. Before returning to the ship we will see the Shuri Castle, perched on a hill overlooking Naha and which used to be a center of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Naha or enjoy the activities onboard..

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Naha at 11:00 p.m. on our journey to Tokyo, Japan.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. Arrive Tokyo, Japan tomorrow when the ship will be in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

Tokyo is the largest city on earth and packed with some of the world’s best shops, museums and restaurants, big and small. While the bright neon lights and the bustle of contemporary Tokyo may be what comes to mind when you think of the city, there is another side. This morning we will get an early start today as we travel by limited express special train to the Nikko National Park (2 hours) with a local expert to visit the Toshugu Shrine complex. Built as a mausoleum for Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate which ruled Japan for over 250 years, this lavishly decorated shrine complex consists of more than a dozen Shinto and Buddhist buildings in a beautiful forest setting and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our local expert will introduce us to the charms of Toshogu through interesting stories about the history and religions of Nikko and the birth of the shrine.

At a local restaurant.

Continuing our discovery we will visit Chuzenji Lake, a scenic lake in the mountains above the town of Nikko. It is located at the foot of Mount Nantai, Nikko's sacred volcano, whose eruption blocked the valley below, thereby creating Lake Chuzenji about 20,000 years ago. Our last stop is Kegon Waterfall before boarding the train back to Tokyo. The almost 100 meter tall Kegon Waterfall is the most famous of Nikko's many beautiful waterfalls.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will get acquainted with the capital of Japan and its fascinating landmarks. We will board our motorcoach and drive to visit the famous and beautiful Meiji Shrine -- a tribute to the Emperor Meiji (late 1800s) who ushered in the Meiji Restoration. This change in government ended the Tokugawa Shogunate and opened Japan to the outside. We will enter the shrine through twin 40-foot-tall Torii gates that are among the largest in Japan. Next we will pass through the organized chaos of the Shibuya Crossing intersection while heading to the Zojoji Temple. Originally built in AD 1393, it was moved to its present location in 1598 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Six of the Tokugawa Shoguns are buried on the site. Take photos of the temple with the Tokyo Tower in the background. Enjoy a panoramic drive through the city before returning to the ship.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Tokyo or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Tokyo at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Omaezaki, Japan.

Aboard ship.

We still start the morning and head to the Ochanosato Museum, located in the largest tea farming area in Japan. The museum features exhibits introducing the tea industry, its history and culture, as well as a tea ceremony house and beautiful garden. After a short drive, we will visit Horai Bridge, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s longest wooden pedestrian bridge at over 1/2 mile long. The bridge was completed during the Meiji era in 1879; before then, those wanting to cross the river would have to hire laborers to take their luggage across. Finally, we will arrive at Ogane-ke, the residence of the Ogane family, for a visit. The Ogane-ke was built about 300 years ago. The main building and gate called “Nagayamon” are both designated as National Important Cultural Properties. Enjoy the seasonal flowers in the garden and the views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay in the distance.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Omaezaki or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Omaezaki at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Kobe, Japan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

From Kobe's pier we will begin exploring Kyoto by coach stopping at Kinkaku-ji Temple for an OUTSTIDE VIEW, we will not go inside.This elaborate building began life as a villa built by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa in 1397 during the Muromachi Period. Later, the house was converted into a temple. It is three stories tall with the second and third stories completely covered in pure gold foil. We will then visit Nishiki Market, where we will see local food and products.

At a local restaurant.

We will continue our discovery & visit the Heian Shrine -- a famous structure dedicated to Emperor Kammu, the founder of Kyoto, and to the Emperor Komei -- the last Emperor in Kyoto. Our final stop is at Kiyomizu Temple, which is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main hall was constructed in the 17th century and is famous for its spectacular location, hanging over a cliff. After a panoramic drive through Kyoto, the coach driver will drop us off at Kyoto station. We will take an exciting high-speed train ride on the Shinkansen Bullet Train to Shin-Kobe station; then transfer back to the pier in Kobe.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

The world's largest gilt bronze statue of Buddha is the first of many interesting sights that await us in the city of Nara -- a center of the Arts, literature and religion. Nara is home to a number of very impressive buildings and landmarks, as we will discover on today's excursion. We will first visit The Daibutsu (Great Buddha) in the Todaiji Temple, the largest wooden structure in the world. Then we will continue to the Kasuga Shrine before stopping for lunch.

At a local restaurant.

We will continue our field trip and visit the Horyuji Temple, the oldest in Japan, which contains some of the nation's rarest treasures. Additionally, it is reputed to be among the oldest wooden buildings in the world. Its inside walls are covered in clay images which depict the life of Buddha. The ship is scheduled to leave Kobe at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Fukuoka, Japan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. Today we will cruise the Kanmon Strait. The Kanmon Strait is a narrow channel of water that separates two of Japan's main islands, Honshu and Kyushu. The channel has long been important to maritime transportation and cargo ships, as it connects the Sea of Japan and the Inland Sea. Passenger and car ferries link the port cities of Shimonoseki and Kitakyushu, as do trains and bridges. The battle between the U.S. and Japanese navies that presaged the Shimonoseki Campaign in 1863 took place here, and eventually led to Japan's opening up to Western powers. The cannons used during the campaign can today be seen near Shimonoseki’s port.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will board our motorcoach with our group leader for the drive to the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Upon arrival at the parking area, we will walk 15-20 minutes to reach the shrine. Dedicated in AD 905, this shrine commemorates a Heian official renowned for his learning and his purity of heart. The current shrine dates to 1591 and is a classic example of Momoyama Period architecture with its elegant, Buddhist-inspired bridges, serene ponds and ancient camphor trees. We will continue to the Kushida Shrine in the heart of Hakata, passing through the Tenjin Business District en route. Founded in 758, the shrine is the starting point for the Oiyama race that ends the city's annual summer festival. Our final stop before heading back to the ship is the iconic Fukuoka Tower. Considered a city landmark, it's Japan's largest seaside tower. Standing 767 feet tall, it is quite a sight, covered in 8,000 semi-mirrored panels. The Tower functions as a broadcast antenna for TV and radio networks.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy the activities and amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Fukuoka at 4:00 p.m. on our journey to Shanghai, China.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Known as the Paris of the East and the Queen of the Orient, Shanghai is the largest city in China with a population of 13 million. We will begin with a motorcoach drive from the pier to the Long Yang Lu Station at Pudong New District. Then board the Maglev Train for an eight-minute ride to Pudong Airport and experience the sensation of almost flying as the train accelerates to maximum speed in no time. Made with the help of cutting edge European technology, the Magnetic Levitation (Maglev) Train is the new state-of-art mode of transportation in Shanghai. Using no wheels, the train floats on an electromagnetic cushion, propelled along a guideway at incredible speeds, it can reach a speed of 267 mph. Pause for a short while before the train brings you back to Long Yang Lu Station on the return ride. Once back at the train station, we will board our motorcoach and drive to the outskirts of Shanghai to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao.

At a local restaurant.

Zhujiajiao Water Town is one of the four ancient towns in Shanghai, popularly known as Shanghai’s Venice. It is more than 1,700 years old, with archaeological findings dating back to even 5,000 years ago. Our visit will include North Street, the most well-preserved Ming-Qing Street in Shanghai. We will also see the Fangsheng Bridge, the symbol of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Built in 1812, and said to be the largest stone arch bridge in Shanghai, resting on five arches.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

Today our discovery will begin at the Shanghai Museum which houses 110,000 historical objects and 430,000 reference pieces. We will Continue to the Oriental Pearl Tower and take the elevator to visit the Sky Galleria. Continuing our journey, we will walk along Shanghai’s premier attraction, the Bund. It was here that early English trading companies set up shop and built enduring colonial structures that overlook the river.

At a local restaurant.

Continuing our exploration, we will visit Yuyuan Garden which has more than 40 scenic spots in the inner and outer gardens, both following the classical style of the Ming Dynasty. The ship is scheduled to leave Shanghai at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Dalian, China.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will explore some of the highlights of Dalian with our group leader. We will begin with a visit to Labour Park, the largest public park in Dalian. The park offers a panoramic view of this picturesque northern China city. See the many new construction sites marking the economic reform of Dalian, as well as that of China. We will pass by People's Square and take a leisurely walk on Xinghai Square where we will see some bronze sculptures.

At a local restaurant.

Continuing our Field Trip, we will stop at the Lotus Mountain Platform where we will take in the view of the city. Next, we will drive on the coastal road to Beida Bridge before returning to port. This bridge was completed in 1987 to commemorate Dalian’s friendly relationship as a sister city with Japan’s city of Kitakyushu. The ship is scheduled to leave Dalian at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Tianjin, China.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach with our group leader in the port city of Tianjin for our 3 1/2 hour ride to Beijing. Upon arrival in Beijing, we will visit the traditional Hutongs via rickshaws with a local expert. Hutongs are the narrow streets and alleys of the Old Town and date back to the Yuan Dynasty. Courtyard-style houses line these quaint streets and are the type of housing that used to be all over Beijing. We will visit a local family who will teach us how to make traditional dumplings that we will then get to enjoy for lunch.

Enjoy the dumplings we made for lunch.

Continue our Field Trip with a visit to the Summer Palace. Dating back to the Qing Dynasty, this summer residence took on special interest for the notorious Empress Dowager Cixi, who fulfilled a wonderful, if rather expensive, dream by commissioning the palace in 1888. Originally a concubine of the third rank, Cixi had placed herself on the Dragon Throne and ruled as Regent for 50 years. By deploying young women and other earthly distractions, she kept her son away from matters of government until his death at the age of 18. Bypassing the legal inheritance, she installed her young nephew as Emperor and governed from behind the throne until he reached majority. She then retired to the Summer Palace, but continued to meddle in court politics. We will take in the magnificent palace and grounds with a local expert, which are an oasis of peace in the bustling city. We will then board our motorcoach for the 4 hour ride back to the port of Tianjin.

Aboard ship. Late night food will be available and complimentary 24 hour room service will also be available.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

This afternoon we will depart the pier and enjoy a panoramic drive as our motorcoach heads into the city of Tianjin. Once in the city, our discovery begins with a visit to the Confucius Temple, built for the veneration of the philosopher, Confucius, and the sages and other philosophers of Confucianism. The Confucius Temple in Tianjin is the third-largest in China. Confucianism plays a significant role in Chinese folk religion and other Asian countries. This temple and others like it were used for the administration of the imperial examination in China and Vietnam, and often housed schools and other study facilities. We will then visit the Ancient Culture Street -- a street that brilliantly showcases replica Qing Dynasty-style architecture. It opened on New Year's Day in 1986 and is located on the west bank of the Haihe River. Many stores here sell Chinese specialties, including the famous Zhang's Clay Figures, Yangliuqing folk paintings, and more.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Tianjin or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Tianjin at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Hong Kong, China.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our new lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will ride the historic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour to Hong Kong’s Central District. Even after 100 years, this ferry remains an important commuter link from Kowloon to Hong Kong island. The eight-minute crossing provides spectacular 360 degree views of Hong Kong’s magnificent harbor. We will then drive to the base of Victoria Peak and take the funicular up the highest mountain on the island where spectacular views stretch across gleaming skyscrapers to the blue harbor beyond.

At a local restaurant.

At the colorful and dynamic Hong Kong History Museum, we will learn about the unique origins of this beautiful city – from the history of its original inhabitants and colonial past to its present-day status as a distinctively international port and financial center.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

This morning, we will board our motorcoach with our group leader and visit the Chi Lin Nunnery & Nan Lian Garden. Then we will ride to visit some of the local markets: Bird Garden, Flower Market, and Jade Market before returning to the ship.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to depart at 3:30 p.m. The ship will leave Hong Kong on our journey to Da Nang, Vietnam.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will depart for Hue, Vietnam. The city is home to the eclectic and mesmerizing tombs and mausoleums of the last emperors of Vietnam, revealing fascinating insights into the lives of the imperial families and their subjects. We will first visit the impressive Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945. The ancient citadel reflects the pomp and ceremony of the dynastic rulers as well as the scars of many years of turmoil, both ancient and modern. Next, we will visit Thien Mu Pagoda, it is the tallest and most important pagoda in Vietnam. The pagoda dates back to 1601 and sits on a hill where a woman once proclaimed that a Lord would build a temple on this site.

At a local restaurant.

Following your meal hop aboard a cyclo (modern day rickshaw) where we will see the daily life of the city inhabitants. Later this afternoon, we will visit the Mausoleum of former emperor Khai Dinh which is located on the side of a mountain near Hue. This monument was built in traditional Vietnamese design with a European touch making it unique from the other tombs in Vietnam.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Da Nang at 11:00 p.m. on our journey to Phu My, Vietnam.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will meet our local expert dockside at the Phu My Port and begin a city exploration of vibrant Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), including the Reunification Hall, formerly known as the Presidential Palace. It was towards this modern building that North Vietnamese resistance fighter's tanks (Viet Cong) rolled on the morning of April 30, 1975 as Saigon fell. This fascinating building is filled with history still fresh in the minds of many.

At a local restaurant.

This afternoon we will discover the Old Post Office, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Jade Emperor Pagoda. Return to the ship for dinner.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Phu My at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Singapore.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Our morning journey begins with a visit to Singapore’s UNESCO Heritage site – The Botanical Gardens where we will see where the first rubber tree was planted that started the Rubber Boom in the late 19th century. We will also discover the National Orchid Garden Enclosure and then head towards the civic district with a visit to Merlion Park. From here we will walk towards the Old Singapore Parliament House which is known today as the Art House for a visit. We will pass by Victoria Memorial Hall and Theatre and Raffles Landing site along the Singapore river.

At a local restaurant.

Our Field trip continues with a visit to the Singapore History Museum to discover one of the best kept secrets, a bronze bell donated to Singapore by the daughter of famous American Patriot Paul Revere, Marie Revere who lived and died in Singapore.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

Today is about discovering a new hybrid culture. Arriving at Fort Canning Spice Garden we take a little walk to learn about the different spices used in Peranakan cooking like nutmeg, Assam Gulagor, tamarind, cinnamon, pepper and more that influence the Peranakan cooking. After which we will rejoin the coach and depart for Joo Chiat location, passing the colourful heritage Peranakan houses located in the Joo Chiat area. We will then visit a famous Peranakan Deli for a Peranakan experience and enjoy a talk on Peranakan culture and fashion. The highlight of our discovery is visiting a traditional Peranakan Home to see how the Perankans live.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Singapore or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Singapore at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will depart the port of Colombo for Galle. A thriving port since long before colonial times. The Old Town is one of the best examples of a fortified city built by the Europeans in southern and Southeast Asia. It attracted Arabs, Persians, Romans and Greeks on their way across the Indian Ocean. Notice the narrow streets, old churches, cloistered courtyards and shuttered mansions bearing witness to a colonial past of considerable comfort. There are several museums here, as well as the Dutch Reformed Church and the lively Arab Quarter. In 1505, the Portuguese attacked and settled in the town, 135 years later ceding it to the Dutch, who built the famous Galle Fort. This remarkable structure, which we will visit today, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch, return to Colombo for a a panoramic drive of the city - traveling by coach, we will see the 100-year-old clock tower and several British-built colonial buildings. Other places of interest are the Pettah Bazaar, Hindu and Buddhist temples, and residential areas that accommodate the stately homes of the affluent.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Colombo at 11:00 p.m. on our journey to Mumbai, India.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

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 discover the unique beauty and intriguing tales of these temple caves. We will board our motorcoach & drive 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 our own exploration of the Elephanta Temple. Boarding a motor boat, enjoy the approximately 45-minute cruise to Elephanta landing. From this staging area, a long stairway leads to the top of the hill, where the caves are located. As we enter, 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 the return cruise to the Gateway and re-board the motor coach for the transfer back to the ship.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Mumbai or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

Today we will discover the highlights of Mumbai, we will start at the Gateway of India, continue on to the Victoria Terminus railway station, built during Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee year. It is an extraordinary conglomeration of domes, spires, Corinthian columns and minarets in a style described by journalist James Cameron as Victorian-Gothic-Saracenic-Italianate-Oriental-St. Pancras-Baroque. The first train in India left from this station in 1853; now, half a million commuters pass through the station every day. Next, we will stop at Mani Bhavan, Mahatma Gandhi’s Bombay base from 1917 to 1934. This building is now a museum and memorial to the famous leader of ‘non-violent non-cooperation’. The room he slept in has remained unchanged and still contains his bed and many of his personal possessions.

At a local restaurant.

We will continue our exploration and drive to Dhobi Ghat where we can take advantage of a unique and colourful photo opportunity—laundry from all over Mumbai is brought to be soaped, soaked, boiled and beaten here. We will also visit the Prince of Wales Museum with its white Mughal-style dome by architect George Wittet. Inside, we will find displays of jade, Mughal Empire weapons, 3rd-century BC terra cotta figures from Gandhara—a former colony of Alexander the Great. The museum’s main attraction is a superb collection of Indian paintings, illustrated manuscripts and exquisite miniatures. The ship is scheduled to leave Mumbai at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Fujairah, UAE.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This taste of life in Fujairah begins with a scenic drive along the UAE's east coast. In Fujairah city, we will take photos of the renovated Old Fort of Fujairah (c 1800), complete with crenellations. We will then stop for photos at the picturesque Bitnah Oasis on the ride out of town. Free time in Masafi village allows us to browse at the quaint Friday Market -- a gathering spot offers a wide range of local products. Next we will drive by the Hajar Mountains en route to the village of Dibba Al Hisn. On our way back to port, we will drive past Al Badiyah Mosque, the oldest in the Emirates.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Fujairah or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Fujairah at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Dubai, UAE.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will proceed first to Jumeirah, the picturesque palace and residential area of Dubai, also home to the famous Jumeirah Mosque for an OUTSIDE VISIT ONLY, we will not be going inside. Our discovery then continues to Al Bastakiya, to take pictures of the 220-year old Al Fahidi Fort. After a visit to the Shindagha musuem we will then board an Abra (local water taxi) to cross the Creek to the Spice souk. Before we return, there is time to shop in the most famous landmark of Dubai … the Gold souk.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Dubai or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Dubai at 11:00 p.m. on our journey to Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Aboard ship.

United Arab Emirates capital city Abu Dhabi literally translates from Arabic as 'Father of the Gazelle' and gets its name from the Arabian Gazelle or Dhabi that were once to be found in plenty here. Today we start our discovery at Qasr Al Watan. Marvel at majestic hallways & explore exhibits that celebrate the UAE's rich Arabic heritage. We then continue to a Heritage Village where the culture and traditions of the Emiratis are reflected in recreated village scenes and provide a glimpse into their simple lives before the discovery of oil.

At a local restaurant.

As we continue our Field Trip, we will explore Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; visit the opulent monument that stands tall as the 3rd largest Mosque in the world. It is a rich tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed, former ruler of Abu Dhabi and former President of UAE.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Abu Dhabi at 11:00 p.m. on our journey to Muscat, Oman.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a fine introduction to Oman’s capital, the country’s political, economic and commercial hub. An exciting mix of medieval, traditional and modern architecture and culture lends Muscat an ambience of its own. One of the main highlights of our morning discovery is a visit to the Grand Mosque. The instructions for building the largest mosque were issued by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The invested patronage of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, accompanied by his instructions to the team overseeing the project at the Diwan of the Royal Court, has endorsed the spiritual and architectural role of the Grand Mosque in marked tribute to the distinguished and noble Islamic heritage. Enjoy some free time to explore Muttaq Souq before ending our exploration of Muscat with a visit to the National Museum.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Muscat or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Muscat at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Salalah, Oman.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will experience the contrast between verdant Salalah and its more rugged surroundings. Situated between the Arabian Sea on one side and a lagoon on the other, the two bodies of water provide a truly unique landscape to the beach and its surrounding areas. Dahriz beach is quite popular all year round, but does see a surge in visitors during the Khareef season, which brings rain to Salalah and the Dhofar Governorate during the summer months. Visit the bustling New Salalah Souq. Browse among the colorful vendors selling frankincense, myrrh, incense, fragrant perfume oils, and more. Travel to the unspoiled beauty of Al-Mughsail Beach—two miles of white, sandy beach capped with high cliffs at both ends.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Salalah or enjoy the activites onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Salalah at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will depart the port via motorcoach with our group leader in Sharm el Sheik and enjoy a scenic journey to the nearby Mangrove Forests. Discover this unique marine ecosystem that's home to a thriving bird population. Next, we will travel through Wadi Kharaza to Wadi Madar where we will interact with local Bedouins, nomadic Arab tribes who have historically inhabited the desert regions in the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa. Take time to enjoy your surroundings with some tea and home made bread. We will return to the ship for lunch.

Aboard ship.

This afternoon we will join our local expert once again for an afternoon exploring Sharm el Sheikh. Visits will include the El Mustafa Mosque and Heavenly Cathedral. Enjoy some free time to explore Naema Bay and Sharm Old City Market. We will return to the ship in the early evening.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Sharm el Sheikh at 8:00 p.m. on our journey to Aqaba, Jordan.

Aboard ship.

Today we will visit the city of Petra, built by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago. Learn about this fascinating culture and the amazing relics they left behind. In the Nabataean era, Petra was a fortress, carved out of craggy rocks in an area that was virtually inaccessible from the outside. In the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, after the Romans invaded, the city reached the peak of its fame. Beginning at the main gate of Petra, we will walk along the siq or canyon to visit Petra. Petra covers an area of about 38 square miles and about 800 monuments can be found here. It was once the crossroads of trading caravan routes but gradually fell into disuse and was lost to the world until 1812, when it was re-discovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burkhart.

At a local restaurant.

We will drive back to the port and enjoy a free afternoon in Aqaba or enjoy the activities onboard the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Aqaba at 8:00 p.m. on our journey to Rhodes, Greece.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

The ship will transit the Suez Canal today. Built under the guidance of French diplomat Ferdinand de Lesseps, the canal took 10 years to construct, opening in 1869. When the Suez Canal opened, it eliminated the need for ships to sail around Africa to reach South Asia. It reduced the journey by 7,000 kilometers (4,350 miles). We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and enjoy a panoramic drive from the port to explore the Old City of Rhodes with our local expert. One of the rare survivors of the Medieval world in Europe, it stands unscathed in all its vibrant beauty. We will see where the Order of the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem - the Hospitalliers - left an indeliable mark. Next visit the Palace of the Grand Master, one of the greatest monuments erected in the Middle Ages. It was the administrative center, residence of the leader of the Knights of St.John of Rhodes, and the seat of the established ruling class. Moving on, we'll visit the Avenue of the Knights, one of the highlights of the medieval town, where seven imposing inns were constructed in the early 16th century, representing the seven countries from which the Knights of the Order of St John originated.

At a local restaurant.

Visit Hospital of the Knights. A unique Gothic masterpiece, now used as the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes. The rest of the afternoon will allow free time to continue exploring the Old Town at leisure.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Rhodes at 9:00 p.m. on our journey to Bodrum, Turkey.

Aboard ship.

We will begin your journey with a visit to the Ancient Theatre of Bodrum. This well-preserved amphitheater dates back to the Hellenistic period and offers a glimpse into the ancient entertainment culture. Explore the historical significance of Myndos Gate. This gate was once a part of the city's defensive walls and holds tales of ancient battles and conquests. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the windmills in Bodrum. These iconic structures add a picturesque charm to the landscape, and you can capture some breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea from this vantage point. Moving on, we next visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. This monumental tomb was built for Mausolus, a satrap in the Persian Empire, and is a remarkable example of ancient Greek architecture. Next visit Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter. This medieval fortress was built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century and now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, showcasing artifacts from shipwrecks in the Aegean. Conclude our Field Trip with a visit to the Sunken Museum. This museum offers a unique experience, displaying underwater archaeological finds. It provides insight into Bodrum's maritime history, and the treasures discovered beneath the sea.

At a local restaurant.

Free time to explore Bodrum at your own pace or enjoy the amenities & activities onboard the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Bodrum at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Kusadasi, Turkey.

Aboard ship.

Today we will board our motorcoach and set out on a field trip to the House of the Virgin Mary. This catholic pilgrimage site is believed to be where the mother of Jesus spent the last years of her life. We will then drive to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, ancient Ephesus, where a local expert will lead our exploration. From the UNESCO inscription: “Located within what was once the estuary of the River Kaystros, Ephesus comprises successive Hellenistic and Roman settlements founded on new locations, which followed the coastline as it retreated westward. Excavations have revealed grand monuments of the Roman Imperial period including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Little remains of the famous Temple of Artemis, one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World,’ which drew pilgrims from all around the Mediterranean.” Unlike her Greek counterpart, this Artemis was primarily a fertility goddess. We will also see ruins of what have been called the Terrace Houses, residential structures once inhabited by wealthy Ephesians.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch we will transfer to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This multi-room museum houses many findings from the Ephesus archaeological site. Originally built in 1929, it expanded over the years to accommodate the growing collection. The last expansion was in 1995.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Kusadasi at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Istanbul, Turkey.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. This morning we will be sailing through the Dardanelles. On the far northwest coast of Turkey, the 60-kilometer-long (37-mile-long) Dardanelles divides the continents of Europe and Asia, and is the sole waterway between the Aegean and Marmara seas and beyond to the Black Sea. For this reason, the Dardanelles has, for millennia, been a strategic gateway for both the shipping trade and military campaigns to Istanbul and the Black Sea region.

Aboard ship.

The ship is scheduled to arrive in Istanbul at 4:00 p.m. Enjoy a free evening in Istanbul or enjoy the activities onboard the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will board a motorcoach, and ride to the Topkapi Palace. Constructed from 1460-1478, it served as the residence of Ottoman sultans as well as their administrative and ceremonial center until the mid-19th century. We will see parts of the harem apartments that originally contained more than 300 rooms including living quarters for the sultan and his family, bath houses, courtyards, dormitories for concubines, a hospital, laundry, mosques, and pavilions.

At a local restaurant.

We will have a guided walk of the Old Town with our group leader before returning to the port & the ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Istanbul at 4:00 p.m. on our journey to Mykonos, Greece.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to arrive in Mykonos at 11 a.m.

Aboard ship.

With our Group Leader, we’ll take a tender boat into the Old Town to explore Mykonos on foot. As we walk, we will see the three main highlights of Mykonos: the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, one of the most photographed churches in Greece; the iconic windmills that can be seen from almost every angle in the village; and “Little Venice” where the buildings are built perched over the water's edge.. At the end of the field trip, the Group Leader will accompany those who wish to return to the ship via tender boat.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Mykonos at 11:00 p.m. on our journey to Piraeus, Greece.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will step off the ship with our Group Leader and walk to our waiting motorcoach for a field trip to the city’s most iconic symbol, the Acropolis. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription: “The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments are universal symbols of the classical spirit and civilization and form the greatest architectural and artistic complex bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world.” We will climb to the top of the rocky crag and stand in awe before ruins of the Parthenon and other temples. Built between 447-432 BCE, the Parthenon — named for the city’s patron goddess, Athena Parthenos — has been called “the supreme effort of genius in pursuit of beauty” and “the most perfect Doric temple ever built.” Its architectural proportions symbolize the ideals of Greek thought at the height of Greek civilization.

At a local restaurant.

The long-awaited Acropolis Museum was completed in 2007. Your Group Leader, or a local expert, will lead this exploration in the dramatic Gallery of the Slopes of the Acropolis. We will ascend floors of glass that seem to float above the excavations for an extraordinary perspective of the layers of Greek history that lie below. In addition to irreplaceable masterpieces, the exceptional collection includes items from everyday life and all historic periods. A recreation of the Parthenon’s frieze was based on existing original blocks as well as copies from museums in London and Paris. We will return to the ship by motorcoach. The ship is scheduled to leave Piraeus at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Naples, Italy.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Head out by motorcoach to the excavated city of Herculaneum -- known to the Italians as Ercolano. The upper class Romans built their beautiful villas and maintained luxurious properties in Herculaneum -- most of them overlooking the sea. Explore on foot with our local expert. We will learn how, when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, hot ash charred or consumed all the wood of the structures in Pompeii (Herculaneum's more famous neighbor). Herculaneum's destruction was the result of a flood of hot mud that buried, sealed and protected entire buildings. This means that today there are still marvelous inlaid marble floors, mosaics, paintings, and carbonized wood exposed to visitors.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Naples or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Naples at 7:00 p.m. on our journey to Malaga, Spain.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

The mighty Roman Empire established Cordoba around the time that it became clear that inland Andalusia could be reached by way of the navigable Guadalquivir River. Today, only three of the thirteen gates of the city's original ancient Roman walls are still standing. Despite its auspicious start, Cordoba did not reach its prime until the 10th century AD, during the time of Muslim domination in Iberia. Draped in splendor, Cordoba became one of the political, cultural and economic leaders of the world. Because of its strategic importance, Cordoba seemed the logical place to build a very large mosque -- a primer for those who intended to make the haj to Mecca. When Catholicism rose to overthrow the power of Islam, rather than destroying the mosque, the Catholic Church simply built a cathedral inside it. So today we will enter a forest of columns that belong to the mosque and discover in their midst a Catholic cathedral -- this is a stunning and bizarre piece of art and architecture and its impact is not to be missed.

At a local restaurant.

We will continue on a walking discovery of the Jewish Quarter, where the narrow and winding streets hide many important and traditional buildings. Our group leader or local expert will point out the Mudejar Synagogue and the quarter's many references to water -- Arabian engineering was crucial for the development of the area's supply. The ship is scheduled to leave Malaga at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we will board our motorcoach and head out on the road that heads north over the island, stopping at the Sta Iria viewpoint for a vista over the north coast. Visit the local tea plantation and factory, and sample some of the better-known Azorean blends. Continue to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint with a magnificent outlook over the Furnas Valley. We will then head up to the lake in time to see our lunch being taken out of an earthen oven in the ground, where it has been cooked using natural geothermal power.

At a local restaurant.

We will continue to the Terra Nostra Botanic Gardens -- among the most beautiful gardens in the Azores. This park features a natural, hot-water swimming pool. We'll have time for a quick swim if you wish. Visit some hot springs in the village to learn about the different mineral water sources; then, return to Ponta Delgada via the south coast, stopping at Vila Franca, which was the island's first capital. The ship is scheduled to leave Ponta Delgada at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. Arrive Ft. Lauderdale, FL tomorrow when the ship is scheduled to arrive at 7:00 a.m.

Aboard ship. This concludes our program.

If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!