World Academy on MS Volendam: South America, Asia & the Pacific

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.

We will board our motorcoach for a 30 minute drive the Harrison's Cave. Located near the center of the island, the cave is unique in the Caribbean. Upon arrival at the Visitor Center, we will board an electric tram descending slowly into the cavern. Witness thousands of gleaming stalagmites and stalactites as we enter the 150-foot Great Hall, and then continue to the Rotunda Room to see its stunning formations.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Bridgetown at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Devils Island.

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.

After getting off the ship's tenders in Devils Island, we will have free time to discover the island on our 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.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Devil's Island at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Icoaraci (Belem), Brazil.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. Today, we will be crossing the Equator, the widest spot on the planet and is also the planetary diving line for the Coriolis effect, which explains why cyclones rotate clockwise north of the equator and counterclockwise south of it.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will board our motorcoach and head off to the Amazon River. We will explore some of the creeks and channels of the Amazon River by boat and enjoy a leisurely walk through the jungle. During our boat ride, we will see local canoes, fishing boats and other river-craft making their way along the tributaries that lead into and out of the rainforest. Once we reach Boa Vista do Acara jungle area, we will enjoy a 45-minute walk in the jungle with a local expert and learn about the different species of trees, fruits and seeds.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Icoaraci (Belem) at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Recife.

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 and head out to see the top landmarks and scenic bridges of Recife. Visit the Golden Chapel where gold adorns the walls, altars, and ceilings of the chapel. Walk the narrow lanes of Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage colonial city established in 1535. We will then explore Olinda’s hilltop Alto da Sé square on foot, visiting two important churches and more.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Recife or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Recife at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

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 and ride to Sugarloaf Mountain. We will ascend Sugarloaf Mountain via its cable car with a local expert and view the panoramas of the city, beaches, and rainforest. We will then continue through the Tijuca National Park, a lush haven full of vibrant flora and fauna. Reach the majestic Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, where outstretched arms embrace the city in a timeless blessing. Experience the incredible 360-degree views of Rio, which showcase the city's iconic landmarks and its breathtaking beauty.

Enjoy a traditional Brazilian BBQ lunch.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Rio de Janeiro or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in the port of Rio de Janeiro overnight.

Aboard ship.

Carnival is South America's version of Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday. We will go behind the scenes at Samba City and learn more about this extravagant, noisy holiday that brings the entire continent to a standstill. At the Grande Rio Youth Samba School, learn about how this non-governmental organization promotes social interaction and education through the culture of Carnival. A local expert will will walk us through the steps to assemble a Carnival float, explain the creative process, show us how Carnival costumes are prepared, and reveal how the floats are organized. We'll also see some of the floats from prior years.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Rio de Janeiro or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Rio de Janeiro at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Punta del Este, Uruguay.

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.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will enjoy a scenic drive on our motorcoach to Casapueblo, also known as the “Santorini” of Latin America. Built by the famous Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaró, friend of Pablo Picasso and Brigitte Bardotm what was initially built as a small summer house is now a thirteen-story complex with winding cave-like corridors. We will continue to the Ralli Museum which includes some of the most important collections of Latin American art in the world, as well as works by renowned European artists such as Salvador Dali, Amadeo Modigliani, and Rene Magritte.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Punta del Este, Uruguay at 4:00 p.m. on our journey to Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and head out to the south part of Buenos Aires. Explore San Telmo and La Boca neighborhoods and Plaza de Mayo with a local expert. La Boca is known for its vibrantly colored houses. It offers a vivid contrast with San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighbourghood, with its Colonial buildings, cobbled stone streets, boutiques and bohemian ambiance.

At a Local Tradicional Milonga ( a place where locals dance tango) where we will watch a tango performance.

Free time in Buenos Aires.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Buenos Aires, Argentina at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Montevideo, Uruguay.

Aboard ship.

We will explore Montevideo by motorcoach and see the landmarks of Independence Square, the stadium where the first-ever World Cup match was played, the splendid Legislative Palace, and more. We will continue our discovery and visit a historic vineyard and sample its delicious wines accompanied by light snacks.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Montevideo or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Montevideo, Uruguay at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to the Falkland Islands.

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.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will board our motorcoach and ride into the terrain outside Port Stanley as a local expert explains the 1982 war’s background. Visit the farm where hundreds of British forces were based after a long march from their San Carlos beachhead. Discover how the local population aided the troops here and even hid munitions caches in the hills. See the wreckage of Chinook and Puma helicopters and view the high ground battle positions surrounding Stanley. Learn about the pitched battle for Goose Green and Darwin and other pivotal aspects of the war.

Aboard ship.

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

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 sail through the bays and islands of the Palmer Archipelago, off the northern tip of the long Antarctic Peninsula, which reaches out toward South America. Encircled in a landscape of snow and ice in every direction, the ship will slowly navigate the iceberg-dotted waters. 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 continue our exploration of Antarctica. The surroundings are hauntingly quiet here, an aspect of the continent that comes as a surprise to many first-time visitors. The ship's naturalists will point out the birds—terns, petrels, and gulls—found on the coast and on small islets at stops like Dallmann Bay. 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.

Continue our discovery of Antarctica. As you pass dark, rocky Cuverville Island, you may see some of the 6,500 pairs of gentoo penguins that make their home there, the largest known colony in the world. 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 continue our exploration on our final day in Antarctica. Continuing on to Paradise Harbor, we will have a chance to observe not only gentoo and chinstrap penguins but possibly humans as well: Both Argentina and Chile have manned research stations here. 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. The ship will leave Antarctica on our journey through the Drake Passage to Ushuaia, Argentina.

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 sail the Drake Passage, where the Atlantic and Pacific oceans meet. Strong winds, currents, waves and icebergs can make the passage fairly treacherous. We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

Continue our cruise through the Drake Passage as we head to Cape Horn. Thanks to its location—on one of the southernmost points in South America—Cape Horn has played a major role in navigational history. The Strait of Magellan to the north was discovered first, but that route’s narrow width was challenging to navigate. Cape Horn, discovered by the Dutch in 1615, became the primary route for trade ships traveling from Europe or the east side of the Americas to the American West Coast. 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 head to Tierra del Fuego National Park with a local expert. Argentina’s first shoreline park, forests of lengas, coihues, ñires, canelos, and mossy foliage are home to guanacos, foxes, and muskrats. Short trails follow the southern edges of the park, providing scenic views of the Ensenada and Lapataia Bays, and the famous Beagle Channel. Sea birds are abundant along the coast and include albatross, terns, geese, ducks, and gulls. Also be on the lookout for condors, Magellanic woodpeckers, and Austral conures.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Ushuaia, Argentina at 2:00 p.m. on our journey to Punta Arenas, Chile. The ship will cruise the Beagle Channel & Glacier Alley. Glacier Alley—or, as it’s more elegantly known, Avenue of the Glaciers—stretches along a good portion of the celebrated 240-kilometer-long (150-mile-long) Beagle Channel in the vast territory of Tierra del Fuego. We will follow the route that the famous HMS Beagle took with a young and then-unknown geologist and naturalist on board, Charles Darwin.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will begin with a motorcoach transfer to a city pier and board a boat to cross the famous Strait of Magellan. We will be plying the same waters as Sir Francis Drake and Charles Darwin. Upon arrival at Magdalena Island, declared a Natural Monument in 1982, we will see one of the largest penguin colonies in southern Chile and get acquainted with the unspoiled habitat of penguins, cormorants and many other birds. A substantial colony of Magellan penguins nests and breeds here. A snack pack is provided. After ample time to observe the birds, it is time for the invigorating walk back to the catamaran and the navigation back to Punta Arenas, where our motocoach will be waiting to take us back to the pier.

Late lunch aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Punta Arenas or or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Punta Arenas at 8:00 pm on our journey to Puerto Montt, Chile.

Aboard ship.

Today we will be cruising through the ice and weather of Chile's Ice Field. As ships make their way through this part of the world on Chile’s coast along the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, ice buildup and quixotic weather conditions heavily dictate which routes ships can take. Even when passage is safe around the popular Amalia, El Brujo or numerous other breathtaking glaciers found here, misty rain or soupy fog might be the order of the day. And it can always shift in a flash, as glassy waters erupt into choppy waves or, shrouded peaks become flooded with sunlight sparkling off the ice fields, letting you relish a momentary peaceful stillness in the air. PLEASE NOTE: Weather, sea, & ice conditions can affect the progress of the ship and could affect the route the ship can take, the itinerary is always subject to change. We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

We will cruise one of the main channels in Patagonia, the Sarmiento Channel. The ragged coastline is cut with inlets set among snow-covered mountain ranges. In many places, massive glaciers run down to the sea. Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Today we will be cruising the Chilean Fjords. Much like the Norwegian coastline, the west coast of Chile is sliced by dramatic inlets, or fjords, lined with rugged mountains and glacier-covered valleys. This spectacular stretch of coastline starts near the Reloncaví Estuary (roughly halfway down the long spine of Chile) and extends south to the very end of the continent, at Tierra del Fuego. It's a distance of some 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) and is known for its beauty. We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will board our motorcoach and enjoy a scenic drive of Andes peaks, Patagonian shorelines and Germanic settlements. With a local expert, see lakeside Puerto Varas, its tranquil horizon dominated by the drama of Osorno Volcano. Visit picturesque Frutillar, renowned for its German-style buildings and interesting historical museum.

Aboard ship.

Free time in Puerto Montt, you may want to discover it's market or stilted fishing village. The ship is scheduled to leave Puerto Montt at 5:00 pm on our journey to San Antonio (Santiago), Chile.

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 head to Valparaiso, known for its unique geography, the houses and buildings are built on hills and the surrounding gorges. Upon arrival in Valparaiso, we will have a walking exploration with our local expert and utilize the city's public transportation. We will walk around Plaza Echaurren, the Port founding area, the old banking area and Cerros Concepción and Alegre, where most of the artisan workshops and art galleries are located. We will then use the old trolleybuses and funicular's to get around and take in the beautiful views of Valparaiso Bay and see its colorful hills from different viewpoints.

Aboard ship.

Free time in the port area of San Antonio or enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave San Antonio at 5:00 pm on our journey to Easter Island, Chile.

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.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will board a minibus or van and ride to visit the ceremonial site of Tahai, located on the west coast of the island. This is where we will find the altars and monolithic Moai statues that have become the icons of Rapa Nui culture. Next, head to Rano Kau, the volcano closest to the village of Hanga Roa. From the mirador (viewpoint), we'll have a great view of a crater and its lake, whose microclimate promotes the growth of dense, varied vegetation. Next, a short drive will bring us to one of the most outstanding and enigmatic places on the island -- the ceremonial village of Orongo. This was once a small huddle of 52 houses built from flagstone, where the celebration of the birdman culture (tangata manu) and a related competition took place. NOTE: Easter Island's climate is hot & humid, be sure to wear sunscreen and light long sleeved shirts & pants to protect yourself from the sun. With the limited infrastructure on the island, the local experts will not ride on the vehicle with you to each site, instead a local expert will wait for us at each point of interest and provide narration and explanation with a loudspeaker. Very few vendors on Easter Island accept credit cards; bring US dollars or Chilean pesos. Bring a refillable water bottle, there is nowhere to purchase water on the island.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Easter Island or enjoy the activities onboard the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Easter Island at 6:00 pm on our journey to Papeete, French Polynesia.

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 ship will cruise past Pitcairn Island. This largely uninhabited island's rugged cliffs plunge into the waters of the South Pacific Ocean. The island is only accessible by boat and has 45 permanent residents. 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 and drive along the West Coast of the island of Tahiti, turning south to the Vaipahi Gardens. Rare species of precious wood and tropical flowers flourish here. On the return route, enjoy a stop at the Fern Grotto Caves of Maraa. These caves were described in Captain Cook's 1769 journal and were also a popular bathing spot for painter Paul Gauguin on hot afternoons, as described in his book, Noa Na. Visit the Arahurahu Marae and take a short walk through the quiet sacred place, which served both religious and social purposes in pre-Christian Polynesian societies. Last but not least, explore the interesting Museum of Tahiti & Her Islands. Set in a lagoon side coconut grove, with a pictureque view of Moorea, this museum ranks as one of the best in the South Pacific. The exhibits display a large array of archeological finds, Polynesian artwork and costumes that tell the story of ancient Tahiti.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Papeete at 4:00 am on our journey to Bahia d Opunoha, Moorea, French Polynesia.

Aboard ship.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will board our motorcoach and enjoy a narrated scenic drive past Cook's and Opunohu Bays, travelling through a landscape of coffee plantations and pineapple fields. Nestled under the palm fronds of a coconut plantation on the shores of Haapiti lagoon, the Tiki Village recreates old-island life with its thatched-roof pandanus houses. Stroll the village and meet the people, see demonstrations of tiki carving and mat weaving followed by a dance performance by villagers in traditional costume. Head on to Papetoai where we will visit the island’s oldest church. The Protestant church was constructed in 1822. Its octagonal shape is unique, built using the original stones of a Tahitian marae or open-air temple that originally occupied the site. Finally, we'll drive on to Kia Ora lookout for more sensational island and lagoon views and opportunities for photography. Visit the Moorea Fruit Juice Factory where juice from local papaya, grapefruit, pineapple and other tropical island fruits is made.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Bahia d Opunoha, Moorea at 10:00 pm on our journey to Raiatea, Society Islands, French Polynesia.

Aboard ship.

We will board our catamaran for an exciting lagoon cruise across the turquoise lagoons of this majestic island once called "HAVAIKI" by the original Polynesian settlers. Enjoy spectacular views of Tapioi mountain and the mythical Temehani plateau surrounded by lush deep green valleys. Our local expert will tell fascinating stories and legends of yesteryear to unveil the history of its people and fauna. Next stop at Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO protected site, a local expert will accompany us on a walk through these sacred grounds to witness the ancient stones and learn of ceremonies and worshipped practices of yesteryear. On our way back, we pass Faaroa bay where the original sailing canoes departed from to discover distant lands including New Zealand, Hawaii and Easter Islands.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Raiatea or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Raiatea, Society Islands at 5:00 pm on our journey to Nuku alofa, Tonga.

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 board our bus and head out to Visit the site where British explorer Captain James Cook landed in Tonga in 1777. We will learn about the local culture of Tonga. Hear the fascinating legend of the coconut and how milk is traditionally harvested from the fruit. We'll also learn how the locals cook food in the ground, pound tapa cloth, weave mats, and perform their traditional dances. Watch the Tongan solo dance and learn about local culture while enjoying a fresh snack of tropical fruits.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Nuku alofa or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Nuku alofa at 5:00 pm on our journey to Auckland, New Zealand.

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 and join our local expert for a behind the scenes visit of the Auckland Museum. Upon arrival, enjoy a cultural performance. Taonga is the Maori word meaning treasure, or something prized. In this immersive experience , be introduced to Maori culture by a group of esteemed indigenous artists and orators. Hear beautiful songs , see poi skills, and learn about the endurance of the Maori people throughout history. We will also discover the origins, traditional uses, and differences of the well-known and powerful ritual- the haka. Next, join a museum curator for a delve into New Zealand's past, indigenous flora and fauna, Maori culture, and the history of New Zealand's diverse and youthful nation. We will finish our morning with High Tea at the Winter Garden Pavilion.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Auckland at 9:00 pm on our journey to Waitangi (Bay of Islands), New Zealand.

Aboard ship.

After getting off the ship's tenders, we will board a local boat and experience the spectacular natural beauty of the Bay of Islands (Ipipiri) and its abundant wildlife. Learn about the local marine mammal sanctuary and how Project Island Song is restoring island ecosystems to bring native birdsong back to the islands. Cruise by Marsden Cross, high above Rangihoua Bay, marking the place where Samuel Marsden held the nation's first Christian sermon on Christmas Day 1814. Next we will Cruise by Roberton Island, where Captain Cook anchored the Endeavour in 1769, and admired Otehei Bay, once home to the American author Zane Grey who popularised game fishing in the Bay of Islands, nearly a century ago. Finally we'll sail past Russell's Pohutukawa-fringed waterfront before returning back to the ship.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy the amenities and activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Waitangi at 2:00 pm on our journey to Sydney, Australia.

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 have a walking exploration with a local expert of The Rocks area giving us insights into Sydney’s colonial past. The Rocks was the area of Sydney first settled by the British and it has a fascinating history and wonderful sandstone buildings. Next we will stroll through the Botanical Gardens, Australia's oldest botanical gardens overlooking Sydney Harbor towards the Art Gallery. We will have time to discover the Art Gallery with a local expert.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

We will board one of the ships tender to get to port. This morning we will walk around the Quay to the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House, where we will have an expert-led exploration of this truly wonderful, iconic building, a masterpiece of late modern architecture. Exactly which areas of the Opera House we see will depend upon what performances and rehearsals are taking place at the time. There are five main performance spaces at the Sydney Opera House — the Concert Hall, the Dame Joan Sutherland Theatre (formerly the Opera Theatre), the Drama Theatre, the Playhouse and the Studio — and the availability of these spaces open to visits changes from day to day.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Board our motorcoach and drive to one of Australa's most iconic destinations, Bondi Beach. Enjoy free time to explore this cosmopolitan beach side town, with the opportunity for lunch independently (we recommend fish and chips available at the many sea side kiosks). We will then enjoy a scenic coastal drive to 'The Gap', a spectacular look-out that boasts an eclectic selection of flora and fauna.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Sydney at 6:00 pm on our journey to Townsville, Australia.

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.

At leisure.

Today we will enjoy one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef. The day will be spent on a comfortable marine vessel that will cruise the outer reef sites, with the oppurtunity to swim and snorkel. Snorkelling equipment will be provided and we will enjoy an informative presentation by a Marine Biologist who will explain the array of sealife and the works being done to protect this treasured underwater world.

Lunch on the vessel.

We will return to the ship in the afternoon for free time on board the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Townsville at 7:00 pm on our journey to Cairns, Australia.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and drive for 1 1/2 hours to Atherton Tablelands, a lush fertile region of rainforest, wetland and savannah. We will visit the Greater Lakes region and enjoy time in the rainforest.

At a local cafe.

Continue exploring the rainforest and enjoy some wildlife viewing before our 1 1/2 hour drive back to the port.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Cairns at 6:00 pm on our journey to Darwin, Australia.

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 the ship will cruise Torres Strait, Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula stretches northward like a long arm, with the Great Barrier Reef running parallel to the east. Cape York, at the end of the peninsula, is the northernmost point of the Australian mainland. Past the cape, the Torres Strait Islands continue onward toward Papua New Guinea, creating a maze of tropical islands and reefs that divide the Coral Sea from the Arafura Sea. Only 14 of the strait's 274 islands are inhabited.

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 to explore Darwin. We will visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and learn how aircraft and technology are used to deliver medical services in the huge distances of centraland northern Australia. Founded in 1928, the RFDS is now one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations in the world, providing primary health care and 24-hour emergency service to people over an area of nearly 3 million square miles. While in the city, we will also visit the Defence of Darwin exhibition. Here we learn about the bombing of Darwin during World War II. We will gain an understanding of the impact of the war on Darwin and its inhabitants, both civilian and military.

At a local restaurant in Darwin.

We will continue our discovery of Darwin where we will board a local boat and explore the brackish backwaters of Darwin with a local naturalist and have the opportunity to see the largest reptile in the wild, the saltwater crocodile before returning to port.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Darwin at 6:00 pm on our journey to Komodo Island, Indonesia.

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.

On our visit to Komodo Isliand, we walk (1.5 hours) through unspoiled nature. With local experts, we will search for Komodo dragons, and along the way have opportunities to spot other indigenous fauna. Afterwards, we will return to the jetty of Loh Liang where we tender back to the ship.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Komodo Island at 2:00 pm on our journey to Benoa (Denpasar), Bali, Indonesia.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and travel 1 1/2 hours to Ubud, described as Bali’s cultural heart. We will walk through Ubud’s main market, which sells fresh fruits, spices, and flowers. Learn about the canang sari, or Balinese temple offerings. We will visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, home to gray long-tailed macaque.

At a local restaurant.

Enjoy a leisurely walk, learn about rice production, and take in the amazing views of the countryside along the way. We will end our excursion by visiting the famous sea temple of Tanah Lot. Board our motorcoach for the 1 1/2 ride back to the port.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to stay in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

Explore Bali with a local expert, we will see some of the beautiful temples and shrines found throughout the island.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Benoa (Denpasar) or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Benoa (Denpasar) at 5:00 pm on our journey to Singapore.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

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

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 begin with a visit to Singapore’s UNESCO Heritage site – The Botanical Gardens, 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. Next, head to 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. Pass by Victoria Memorial Hall and Theatre and Raffles Landing site along the Singapore river on our way to the History Museum. Visit 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.

At a local restaurant.

We will head to the Urban Renewal Authority Gallery to learn about Singapore’s development.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and head out to discover the Peranakan culture, which evolved from the intermarriage of Chinese, Malays and Indians. On our expert-led field trip, we will visit Fort Canning Park and the spice garden, take a little walk to learn about the different spices used in Peranakan cooking like nutmeg, Assam Gulagor, tamarind, cinnamon, pepper and more. Next, we will rejoin our coach and drive to the Joo Chiat location, passing the colourful heritage Peranakan houses. 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.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Singapore at 6:00 pm on our journey to Phuket, Thailand.

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 ride 1 1/2 hours to Ho Chi Minh City. On arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, we will 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. We will ride for 1 1/2 hours back to the port and return to the ship for dinner.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Phu My at 6:00 pm on our journey to Nha Trang, Vietnam.

Aboard ship.

We will board the ship's tender to shore, upon arrival at the port, we will board our motorcoach and head out to discover the historic sites and Nha Trang's stunning beach.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Nha Trang at 6:00 pm on our journey to Halong Bay, 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.

We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay with a local expert. Marvel at the limestone islands, rock formations and caves whittled away over the centuries by wind and water.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Halong Bay or enjoy the amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Halong Bay at 8:00 pm on our journey to Hong Kong.

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 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.

Visit the Mei Ho House, which was Hong Kong's first resettlement type public housing, now transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, housing the hostel, restaurant and living Gallery.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

Meet our local expert at the cruise terminal to begin our exploration of Hong Kong. Begin our day at the Chi Lin Nunnery, a Buddhist temple complex located in Kowloon. The temple hall contain statues of the Sakyamuni Buddha, the goddess of mercy Guanyin and other bodhisattvas made from gold, clay, wood & stone. We will also have time to explore the surrounding Nan Lian Garden with it's beautiful lotus ponds. Finish the morning with visits to some of Hong Kong's famous local markets- Flower Market & Bird Garden, offering a wide variety of flowers, plants and birds. Visit the Jade Market & Wet Market,a lively place for local people.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Hong Kong or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Hong Kong at 5:00 pm on our journey to Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

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 motocoach and set off to discover Taiwan's second largest city. See temples and monasteries to soaring skycrapers and more modern buildings.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Kaohsiung or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Kaohsiung at 5:00 pm on our journey to Keelung, Taiwan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and ride to Taipei. We will discover this modern metropolis with a local expert. Discover temples dating back to dynastic times that blend seamlessly into the modern era.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Keelung at 11:59 pm on our journey to Naha, 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 board our motorcoach and head out to Shuri Castle. There aren't many old buildings left in Naha due to most of them being destroyed during WWII, today we will visit Shuri Castle which has been restored. Explore the royal residence and it gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Naha, take a stroll down Kokusai Street which offers almost 1.25 miles of shops, cafes, and restaurants or the nearby Makishi Public Market which has dozens of food vendors.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Naha at 7:00 pm on our journey to Amami, Japan.

Aboard ship.

After reaching port via the ship's tenders, enjoy Free Time on the island of Amami Oshima, take in some of its beautiful beaches. Amami Oshima is the largest island in the Satsunan island chain that runs between Kyushu and Okinawa.

Aboard ship.

Continue your free time on Amami Oshima or enjoy the amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Amami Oshima at 5:00 pm on our journey to Nagasaki, 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 board our motorcoach and head out to Nagasaki, a city that has risen from the ashes to become a vibrant symbol of peace and international harmony. We will begin at the Atomic Bomb Museum, a solemn reminder of the city's tragic past. Here gain profound insights into the devastating events of 1945, understanding the resilience of the Nagasaki people and the global call for peace that echoes through the museum's halls. Next, we'll transport you to a different era at Glover Garden, an enchanting enclave overlooking Nagasaki Bay.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Nagasaki or enjoy the amenities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and head to the heart of the city , where the vibrant energy of Nagasaki Chinatown awaits. This bustling district, one of Japan's oldest Chinatowns, is a sensory delight. Engage with the lively market atmosphere, explore narrow alleys filled with traditional shops, and experience authentic cultural activities, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Nagasaki's multicultural community.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Nagasaki or enjoy the amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Nagasaki at 5:00 pm on our journey to Shimizu, 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.

At the hotel.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will board our motorcoach and head out to discover this city, see some of the many shrines here.

At a local restaurant.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Shimizu or enjoy the amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Shimizu at 5:00 pm on our journey to Tokyo, Japan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and discover Tokyo, Japan's capital and the world's most populous city. We will visit the Imperial Palace, site of the Shogun’s castle. Our route will take us by other areas of historical importance and give us a feel for the scale of the metropolis.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and head to the Tokyo National Museum. The oldest and largest in Japan, the museum houses over 110,000 objects including 600 Important Cultural Properties. The museum is located on the edge of Ueno Park, a very pleasant park to stroll through.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Tokyo at 4:30 pm on our journey to Hakodate, 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.

Our day begins at Goryokaku Park, a star shaped fort steeped in samurai heritage. Explore the fort's intriguing design, stroll along its moats adorned with cherry blossoms in spring, and ascend Goryokaku Tower for panoramic vistas. Experience the city's evolution from its historical roots to its modern splendor. We will then board the Hakodate Ropeway for an exhilarating ride to the summit of Mount Hakodate. Enjoy views of the city and harbor below and explore the observatory, capturing postcard-perfect moments. Conclude our morning at the Hakodate City Tropical Botanical Garden, a lush oasis housing exotic flora and enchanting butterflies. Wander through tropical greenhouses, where vibrant orchids, palms, and carnivorous plants thrive. Immerse yourself in the Butterfly House, where delicate butterflies flutter amidst tropical blooms, offering a serene and magical experience. Engage with educational exhibits, learning about biodiversity and conservation efforts, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Aboard ship.

Free time for independent exploration in Hakodate or enjoy the amenities and activities on board. The ship is scheduled to leave Hakodate at 5:00 pm on our journey to Kodiak, Alaska.

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 board our motorcoach with our group leader and head out to discover Kodiak. Shrubs and bushes cover the rolling hills here, giving Kodiak its Emerald Isle nickname. It was once a prime native hunting ground for the Alutiit, but their population plummeted after Russian traders and fur trappers settled the area in the late 1700s. Bought by the United States in 1867, Kodiak grew into a commercial fishing center.

Aboard ship.

Free time in Kodiak or enjoy the amenities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Kodiak at 5:00 pm on our journey to Sitka, Alaska.

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 a local expert and journey for an exploration of Sitka. Located on Baranof Island surrounded by the Sitka Sound’s icy blue water, it not only boasts lush scenery and captivating wildlife, Sitka offers a unique glimpse into Alaska history.

Aboard ship.

Free time in Sitka or enjoy the amenities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Sitka at 5:00 pm on our journey to Ketchikan, Alaska.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and ride to Ketchikan. Discover Alaska's "First City" of Ketchikan, so named because it’s the first major landfall for most cruisers as they enter the picturesque fjords of the Inside Passage, where the town clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain. Ketchikan has long been an important hub of the salmon-fishing and -packing industries.

Aboard ship.

Free time in Ketchikan or enjoy the amenities of your choice aboard ship. Explore the sights in the town itself, including historic Creek Street, a boardwalk built over the Ketchikan Creek. The ship is scheduled to leave Ketchikan at 5:00 pm on our journey to Seattle, Washington.

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 set off to explore Seattle. With a thriving food-and-drink scene, eclectic neighborhoods and a stunning coastal setting, Seattle is a dynamic urban enclave nestled in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle isn’t just a wine or craft beer town; it’s the home of Starbucks. You can still visit the original storefront adjacent to Pike Place Market.

Aboard ship.

Free time in Seattle or enjoy the amenities of your choice aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Seattle at 6:00 pm on our journey to San Diego, California.

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.

San Diego is known as California's beach city, we will head off in our motorcoach to explore the city's diverse coastal, urban and inland neighborhoods.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in San Diego or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave San Diego at 5:00 pm 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.

We will board our motorcoach with our group leader and ride to Manzanillo. We will explore Mexico's busiest commercial seaport and it's historical center where we will see the area's Spanish ruled past in the architecture.

Aboard ship

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Manzanillo at 4:00 pm on our journey to Puerto Chiapas, 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 board our mtorocoach and discover Puerto Chiapas. The southernmost port on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Chiapas is named for the state in which it is located. It is relatively new, built in 1975, and is the primary hub from which the region’s agricultural goods, including coffee, are sent abroad.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Puerto Chiapas or enjoy the activities onboard.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Puerto Chiapas at 7:00 pm on our journey to Acajutla, El Salvador.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach with our group leader and head out to explore Acajutla. With it' stunning beaches and colorful markets, discover El Salvador's main port. The historical city center is known for it's charming streets and friendly locals.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Acajutla at 3:00 pm on our journey to Cartagena, Colombia.

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.

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. 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 head off to discover Cartagena with a local expert. See the fort of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and the wall that encloses the old town, one of the few intact structures of its kind in the Americas and listed a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Cartagena at 1:00 pm 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.

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!