World Academy on MS Volendam: 7 Continents in 135 Days

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Visit one of Australia's most iconic destinations, Bondi Beach. Enjoy free time exploring the stunning coastline and wandering the vibrant beachside streets before returning to the ship.

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. We will continue by boarding a local boat to depart for “Pink Beach,” named as such for its pinkish sand. Snorkling gear will be provided for those who want to view marine life in the crystal clear water. 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 immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Phuket (pronounced poo-ket) with a local expert. Situated on Thailand's largest Island, in the beautiful Andaman Sea, the city offers the best of both cultural landmarks and natural beauty. In Old Phuket, developed on wealth from the islands tin trade, you can observe the 17th century European influence on Phuket's architecture. Old mansions are today transformed into charming hotels, welcoming restaurants or enticing shops.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Phuket or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Phuket at 4:00 pm 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.

Home to pristine beaches and enchanting mist shrouded tea country, Colombo is a vibrant developing city where modern skyscrapers jostle for position alongside graceful colonial architecure. We will discover this city with a local expert. Busy markets and new shops sit alongside ancient temples. It's been a critical trading post for over 2000 years, rising to prominance as Sri Lanka's most important port in the 16th century with the arrival of Portugese fleets.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Colombo at 11:00 pm on our journey to Male, Maldives.

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 tender, we will board a local boat and cruise to to Bandoss Island Resort, one of the oldest resorts in the Maldives. Bandos was initially opened in 1972, the year that tourism was introduced to the Maldives.Bandos lies seven kilometers from Malé in the North Malé Atoll and takes approximately 45 minutes each way to reach by boat. This is a tourist resort island – one of the 105 resort islands in Maldives. The Maldives are unique for their "one island, one resort" concept. When you arrive, you can begin to explore this small island hideaway, swathed in lush vegetation, that embodies the essence of the Maldives, with coconut palms and tropical greenery surrounded by the resort’s famed white sand beach and crystal clear water. Have free time to explore the beach around the resort. After approximately 3 hours, return to Male.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

Free time to do what you like on this beautiful island.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Male or enjoy the activities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Male at 5:00 pm on our journey to Safaga, 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 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 for 3 1/2 hours to Luxor, Egypt’s vast necropolis and a magnificent realm of this country’s intriguing past. We will first visit Valley of the Kings, the city of the dead, where 62 magnificent tombs have been discovered. Potentially hundreds of tombs were originally carved into the desert rocks, intricately painted with various mineral and stone dyes which have maintained their rich hues, and are filled with treasures for use in the afterlife by many dynasties of Pharaohs. We will have a chance to visit two tombs at the Valley of the Kings. Then we will have a photo stop at the Temple of Hatshepsut, rising out of the desert in a series of brilliant white terraces. Hatshepsut was both a female and a Pharaoh. She dressed like a man and wore a false beard to counter the considerable bias against ruling females during that era (circa 1500 BC).

At a local restaurant.

We will continue our Field Trip and drive to the East Bank, here we'll visit Luxor Temple. This temple was once connected to the Karnak Temple via the Avenue of Human-Headed Sphinxes -- more than a mile in length. This temple hosted many celebrations, including the Festival of Opet, which lasted 27 days. We will board our motorcoach and drive for 3 1/2 hours back to Safaga and our ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Safaga at 1:00 am on our journey to Alexandria, Egypt.

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. The ship will transit the Suez Canal. Bordered by Port Said in the north at the mouth of the Mediterranean Sea and Port Suez in the south at the mouth of the Red Sea, the Suez Canal flows 193 kilometers (120 miles) through the Isthmus of Suez. It's noteworthy for its narrow width—which means that large ships need to travel single file and wait for each other to pass—and the fact that it has no locks, so water flows through from one sea to the other.

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 our overnight in Cairo. The drive from Alexandria to Cairo is approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival in Cairo, we will visit the great Pyramids of Giza.The largest of these, Cheops, is the only remaining one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Stand beside these incredible Egyptian monuments and marvel at their size. View the Sphinx—part lion, part man, carved from a natural rock—190 feet long and 66 feet tall at its highest point. Its face, which is 16 feet above the ground, looks towards the rising sun in the east.

At a local restaurant in Giza.

We will continue our Field Trip with a visit to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Wander through time, starting from the Archaic Pre-Dynastic Period and into the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms. It houses the world’s most important collection of Egyptian antiquities from 2700 BC to the 6th century AD with thousands of statues, jewels and artifacts from nearly every period of ancient Egypt. Admire the amazing treasures of Tutankhamon, the boy-king, including his funeral mask made of solid gold and still perfectly preserved. There are 12 rooms filled with treasures from King Tut’s tomb, which was discovered in 1922, virtually untouched. After a long day, we will check into our hotel.

At the hotel.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will check out of the hotel, board our motorcoach and ride to Sakkara, the vast necropolis of ancient Memphis. The pyramids here include the distinctive Step Pyramid, dating back to 2686 BC and believed to be the oldest stone structure on earth. It was built at the decree of King Zoser and thus began the tradition of pyramid building.

At a local restaurant.

We will drive for approximately 3 hours back to our ship in Alexandria.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Alexandria at 6:00 pm on our journey to Piraeus, 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.

We will board our motocoach and drive to Athens to visit its signature site, the Acropolis. Led by a local expert, we will climb the formidable Acropolis to explore the pinnacle of Greek Antiquity. Home to some of Ancient Athens’ most iconic monuments – the Parthenon, Erechtheon, and temple Athena Nike – the rocky summit was transformed into a manifestation of Greek advancement in culture and the arts. The Acropolis’s focal point is the Parthenon, built to honor the city’s patroness Athena, constructed under Pericles’ rule and completed in 432 BCE. We will also visit the renowned new Acropolis Museum.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch we will make our way back to Piraeus to rejoin the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Piraeus at 6:00 pm on our journey to Naples, Italy.

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 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. Our local expert will explain 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.

At a local restaurant.

We will continue our Field Trip to the Archaeological Museum of Naples, one of the most important museums in the world with its priceless collections of sculptures, bronzes, ceramics, paintings, mosaics, old Roman jewelry and other works of art representing this ancient civilization.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Naples at 8:00 pm on our journey to Civitavecchia, Italy.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and drive for 1 hour 15 min. to Rome where we will visit the Colosseum & the Roman Forum. Officially known as the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum was the greatest in the Roman Empire and could hold more than 50,000 spectators. Historical records, as well as popular culture in our time, have made it an iconic symbol of gladiatorial combat and the sacrifice of untold numbers of slaves, prisoners of war, condemned criminals, and animals from throughout the empire. We will then head to the Roman Forum, the civic, religious, and political hub of ancient Rome. We will see the two remaining triumphal arches of Septemius Severus and Titus. The Arch of Constantine contains friezes and bas-relief sculptures recycled from other arches and monuments.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch we will drive the 1 hour 15 min. back to the port of Civitavecchia to rejoin the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Civitavecchia at 10:00 pm on our journey to Alicante, 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 board our motorcoach and head to Alicante with our local expert. We will explore the Old Town and Santa Barbara Castle, marvel at the marble paved Explanada de España, dotted with palm trees.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Alicante at 6:00 pm on our journey to Lisbon, Portugal.

Aboard ship.

We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. Today the ship will cruise the Strait of Gibraltar where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic and the liquid border between Africa and Europe.

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 head off to explore Lisbon. . Enjoy the magnificent view of the city and harbor from Alto do Parque Belvedere. From the comfort of your coach you have a superb view also from the April 25th Suspension Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges connecting Lisbon to Almada. Driving to Belém district, you will have an outside visit of the Church of the Jeronimos Monastery, a World Heritage Site and architectural masterpiece built in the 16th century. After that,we will visit the lavishly decorated Belem Tower with a local expert, another World Heritage Site, where Portuguese explorers were given a rousing send-off. We will then have a walking discovery of Lisbon’s oldest quarter ‘Alfama’, stroll through the narrow cobbled streets and typical houses of the most traditional district of Lisbon.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

Today is free to explore Lisbon on your own to enjoy what you like.

Aboard ship.

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

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 ride to discover Bilbao. Explore the old town and it's charming cobblestone streets.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Bilbao at 2:00 pm on our journey to Bordeaux, France.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach with a local expert and journey out of Bordeaux in the surrounding countryside and the heart of it's wine making regions, each region being a different appellation with it's own process and traditions. En route to a chateaux, we will see the rows of vines stretching off into the distance, coloured by the hazy Gascon sun. On arrival, learn about the wine making process before sampling some of the best wines the region has to offer.

Aboard ship.

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

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 our day at the Memorial Museum of Omaha Beach, near the beach itself, exploring WWII artifacts and displays. Visit Omaha Beach and the Normandy American Cemetery, where nearly 10,000 soldiers rest, with rows of marble crosses and Stars of David overlooking the coast.

At a local restaurant.

We will visit la Pointe du Hoc, a key D-Day site, and make a brief stop at Sainte-Mère-Église before returning to Cherbourg. The ship is scheduled to leave Cherbourg at 5:00 pm on our journey to Zeebrugge, Belgium.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and ride for 30 minutes to the city of Bruge. Packed with picture perfect canals, friendly cobblestone streets and fairy-tale gabled houses, Bruge has a charm all of its own. We will explore this small capital of West Flanders with a local expert. We will see medieval architecture packed within the city's moatlike ring of waterways. After our morning Field Trip, we will drive 30 minutes back to the port of Zeebrugge.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Zeebrugge at 5:00 pm on our journey to Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and head to Rotterdam with our local expert. Europe’s busiest port and the Netherlands’ second-largest city, Rotterdam is home to some of the 20th and 21st centuries most important architectural feats - an impressive accolade when you consider during WWII much of the centre and suburbs were razed to the ground. We will explore the picturesque Delfshaven district and learn about the more modern architecture of Rem Koolhaas and Norman Foster.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Rotterdam at 7:00 pm on our journey to Copenhagen, Denmark.

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'll board a motorcoach for a panoramic introduction to Copenhagen with a local expert to see some of the city’s highlights. Taking in the City Hall, Tivoli Gardens, old Stock Exchange, and photogenic Nyhavn harbour. Our local expert will provide engaging commentary as we journey around the city and making a stop at Christiansborg Palace, which contains the Danish Parliament and Supreme Court. The palace's Great Hall is home to colorful tapestries, which show history spanning from the Viking Age to the year 2000.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Copenhagen at 5:00 pm on our journey to Oslo, Norway.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motocoach and head to Oslo with our local expert. Journey through the heart of historic Oslo, taking in highlights such as the Akershus Fortress, Royal Palace, Parliament and the National Theatre. The city is also home to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the largest single-artist sculpture park in the world. Unique and bizarre, this installation consists of over 200 stone and bronze sculptures completed by Gustav Vigeland between 1924 and 1943 to symbolise different stages in mankind’s journey.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Oslo at 11:00 pm on our journey to Falmouth, U.K.

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 the 1 hour drive to St. Michael's Mount. Originally a Benedictine priory, St Michael's Mount is arguably one of the most dramatic sights in Britain. It's castle topped crag, accessible via causeway at low tide or by boat at other times, was first established in the 12th century. Throughout its long history the Mount has been utilised for in various functions including church, priory, fortress and even a private house! . On arrival, make the steep climb to the castle entrance to be rewarded with magnificent views of Land's End and the Lizard Peninsula. Entering the castle through the West Door enjoy a self-guided visit taking in the Hall, living quarters, Rococo Gothic drawing room, the Armory, the library (the castle's oldest part), the Priory Church, and the Chevy Chase Room, which takes its name from a plaster frieze depicting a series of hunting scenes. Reaching the South Terrace provides magnificent views of Mount's Bay and the surrounding coastline. We will then head back to port to join the ship.

Aboard ship

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

Aboard ship

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Falmouth at 7:00 pm on our journey to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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 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. The ship is scheduled to arrive in San Juan at 12:00 pm.

Aboard ship.

We will board our motorcoach and head to San Juan where we will explore the old town with a local expert. Stroll the colorful cobblestone streets surrounded by old city walls. After the Field Trip, enjoy some Free Time in San Juan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave San Juan at 10:00 pm on our journey to Fort Lauderdale, FL.

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!