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.

For our first port of call, we will set out to discover Barbados' lush plantation fields and mahogany woods. NOTE: this field trip is provided through Holland America due to port constraints. We will meet our local expert at the pier, board our coach and enjoy a panoramic drive to the island's northern tip and head to St Nicholas Abbey. On arrival, we will board the St Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway for a comfortable and picturesque ride on a heritage steam train. On our journey, we can observe wild waterfowl and migratory birds congregating around lakes, mature mahogany woodlands, and an abandoned limestone quarry. Departing the train at the Cherry Tree Hill viewpoint we will be treated to breathtaking views of the rugged Atlantic coastline before heading back to St Nicholas. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up.Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.

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 coach and ride from Icoaraci to Belem where we will board a boat to navigate the Guamá River, we'll have the opportunity to observe the daily commercial activities of river dwellers arriving from the islands in small boats loaded with fish, fruits, and vegetables, which are sold at the small ports along Belém’s riverside. Experience up close this vibrant world of colors and sounds. After passing through the Maracujá and Benedito canals, we’ll take a walk to explore the riverside environment and meet the local caboclo community — learning about their way of life, their relationship with the river, their homes, docks, farmland, and traditional flour houses. Admire the stunning local vegetation, including large specimens of rubber trees, andiroba, and native palms like açaí and buriti, as well as the majestic samaúma tree. Return to Belém and transfer back to Icoaraci.

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 coach 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 coach 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 coach 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 Bardot, what was initially built as a small summer house is now a thirteen-story complex with winding cave-like corridors. Following our visit, we'll rejoin our coach to return back to the pier.

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 coach 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 restaurant.

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 coach 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 then depart Montevideo and travel inland to Spinoglio Winery, visit this historic vineyard and sample its delicious wines.

Enjoy a unique blending experience before having lunch at the winery.

We will return to Montevideo and rejoin our ship. 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 coach and make our way through the East Falkland’s countryside, our local expert will share insights into the region’s landscapes, history, and wildlife along the way. Today we can hope for close encounters with Gentoo penguins, sightings of a variety of native bird species, and the occasional sighting of sea lions or dolphins along the shoreline. As we drive, enjoy views of open pastures, native flora, and stone runs, unique rock formations created by ancient glacial activity, as we make our way to Bertha’s Beach Nature Reserve. Explore this fascinating nature reserve and observe the local wildlife, hopefully we will see Gentoo penguins nesting and feeding in the wild . After having some time at the nature reserve, we will board our coach and head back to Stanley to rejoin the ship.

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 coach and head to Tierra del Fuego National Park with a local expert. Argentina’s first shoreline park containing 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 catamaran to cross the famous Strait of Magellan. This will take approximately 2 hours. 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 coach will be waiting to take us back to the pier. NOTE: this Field Trip is provided through Holland America due to port constraints.

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 coach to transfer to Puerto Montt's local market. Here we will be introduced to a local chef who will help us select the ingredients we will use to make our lunch today. During our exploration of the market we will learn what is typical in the region, the chef will help us choose the best local produce. Leaving the market, we say farewell to our chef for now and head to Frutillar for a walking discovery within the town and a visit to the local Museum. We will rejoin our coach and ride for about an hour to meet the local family who will host us for lunch.

Once introductions are made we roll up our sleeves for a hands on cooking demonstration, learning how to prepare a typical tasteful dish called 'mini Pullmay con Pebre'. Chat with the chef or relax in this stunning setting as lunch comes together and delicious scents fill the house before sitting down to the fruits of our labor.

After lunch, we will say farewell to our generous hosts and return to the pier. The ship is scheduled to leave Puerto Montt at 5:00 pm on our journey to San Antonio, 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 coach 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 unique public transportation such as old trolleybuses and elevators to get around. We will walk around Plaza Echaurren, the Port founding area, the old banking area, Cerros Concepción and Alegre, where most of the artisan workshops and art galleries are located. Also admire the beautiful views of Valparaíso Bay.

Since we will be on the go, enjoy a packed lunch during our exploration.

Continue exploring Valparaiso. 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 depart on bus for Rapa Nui National Park. Stop at various sites within the park to discover the mystery of the moai, giant sculptures of and monuments to the ancestors, that are spread across the island.

Enjoy a picnic lunch during our Field Trip.

Continue exploring Rapa Nui National Park, later in the afternoon we will board the tenders back to 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.

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 coach and depart for an exploration with a local expert to the Museum of Tahiti, a fascinating exhibit of all that makes up French Polynesia. We'll learn about the geographic and oceanographic explanation of the islands; life in the sea and on land; progressive stages of its history; pre-European artifacts; and a collection of memorabilia of political, cultural and social leaders. From the museum we will depart for a drive around Tahiti Nui, learning about the culture while stopping at sites rich in history or natural beauty. We will return to the ship before lunchtime.

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 coach and discover Moorea. We will visit Belvedere Viewpoint with beautiful vistas of the island, stop at a well preserved and rebuilt historical Marae, view a farming valley inland of Cook’s Bay.

At the University of California Berkeley's Richard B. Gump South Pacific Research Station & the Atitia Cultural Centre featuring local dishes.

Explore the garden and grounds at the research station and cultural centre before heading back to the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Bahia d Opunoha, Moorea at 6:00 pm on our journey to Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

Aboard ship.

We will set out on small boats for a field trip to a scenic motu for snorkeling and exploring amid Bora Bora's exceptional natural beauty. Snorkel equipment will be provided. Keep your eyes peeled for tame sharks and rays hiding among the beautiful corals and schools of fish. We will return to the ship before lunch.

Aboard ship.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Bora Bora or enjoy the activities and amenities onboard. The ship is scheduled to leave Bora Bora 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.

Explore Tonga’s capital city on a panoramic drive. NOTE: this field trip is provided through Holland America due to port contstraints. We will stop to view the Royal Palace from the outside, now used solely for ceremonial occasions. This white Victorian residence was shipped from New Zealand and assembled in Nuku’alofa in 1867. Never colonized by the West, Tonga claims one of the last pure expressions of Polynesian culture. Get in touch with ancient Tonga at a village featuring a collection of artifacts and demonstrations of traditional island crafts. Learn about communication before the days of mobile phones and email. Watch the making of tapa cloth, mat weaving and woodcarving. Visit a traditional Tongan fale (house) and see typical local costumes. Souvenirs and island crafts are available for purchase here. Next, we will head to Tonga's western coast,where we'll see the Chief's Whistles-widely considered the most spectacular blowholes in the entire South Pacific. NOTE: Blowholes are affected by sea and weather conditions; blowhole activity is not guaranteed. Continuing on, we'll stop near Tofoa to meet the flying foxes. These nocturnal fruit bats sleep suspended from trees, heads down and wings folded. Bats enjoy a sacred status in Tonga and live a restful, protected life. Finally, visit the Royal Tombs -- the final resting place of King George Tupou I and his descendants. NOTE: The order of sites visited may vary.

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.

At a local restaurant.

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 7:00 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. We will learn about the history and stories that made Sydney Cove what it is today.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship. We recommend an early casual dinner onboard this evening to allow travel time to the Opera House.

Enjoy an evening at the Sydney Opera House to see Puccini’s Turandot performed by Opera Australia in the Joan Sutherland Theatre. The performance will commence at 7:30pm, we will gather as a group onboard and then walk a short distance to the Sydney Opera House. International director and choreographer Ann Yee creates a spectacular new Turandot. Featuring monumental sets, immersive visuals and mesmerizing dance, this is unmissable theatre. Puccini’s atmospheric music takes you to another world, traversing the emotional extremes of his largest ever choral piece and the electrifying top notes of the iconic aria ‘Nessun dorma’. Two of Australia’s most exciting dramatic sopranos take on the title role: Rebecca Nash, fresh from the Metropolitan Opera of New York, and Anna-Louise Cole, following her triumph in the Ring Cycle. Turandot captivates audiences with its fable-like story, extraordinary music and grand spectacle. Presented by Opera Australia. This production of Turandot is by the Opera Conference, Australia’s national partnership of professional opera companies. The ship is scheduled to remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

We will take our coach across the Sydney Harbour Bridge to Taronga Zoo, located on the north shore, with delightful views across the harbour to the city. Here we will begin our study of Australian fauna. As well as meeting kangaroos, koalas and wallabies — and hoping for a glimpse of the rather more elusive wombat, echidna, and platypus — we will have a lecture from one of the keepers introducing some of Australia’s more dangerous inhabitants: spiders and snakes.

Enjoy a packed lunch at Taronga Zoo.

Free time in the afternoon to explore the zoo and its exhibits at leisure 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.

We will board our coach for a short transfer to the ferry we will take to Magnetic Island. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes. On arrival we'll enjoy a scenic journey, winding past dramatic coastal vistas, secluded bays, and untouched outback terrain. Along the way, our local expert will share insights into the island’s unique ecosystems — from the granite boulders that shape its landscape to the native flora and fauna that call it home. We will learn how Magnetic Island’s geology and climate have shaped its biodiversity, and why it’s considered a vital part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

At a local restaurant.

Continue to the island’s rugged west coast — a remote and rarely visited region that reveals the true heart of ‘Maggie’. Here, dramatic landscapes meet ancient bush trails, and the silence of nature speaks volumes. Learn about the conservation efforts that protect this pristine environment, and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s role in preserving Australia’s natural heritage. As the day winds down, we return via the ferry terminal en route back to 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 coach and explore Tropical North Queensland with a local expert. Learn about the flora, fauna, and wildlife that live in this part of Australia.

At a local cafe.

Continue our exploration before heading back to the ship.

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.

Following lunch, we will make our way to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, or MAGNT for short. Situated in Larrakia Country, MAGNT Darwin is home to internationally renowned artistic, cultural and scientific collections and research programs which we will explore with our local expert. Following our visit, we will rejoin our coach for the journey back to the pier, taking in some more sights and highlights along the way, before rejoining our ship.

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.

We will depart the pier by boat to reach Komodo Island, a region comprising rusty-red volcanic hills, savannah and forested environs where the Komodos roam. On our visit to Komodo Island, we walk (1.5 hours) through unspoiled nature to track dragons and discover their habits and habitats first hand. Following our exploration we will return to the pier on one of the national park vessels.

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. En route we will learn about the canang sari, or Balinese temple offerings as well as paying a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest, home to gray long-tailed macaque. Upon arrival in Ubud, we will walk through the main market, which sells fresh fruits, spices, and flowers.

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.

We will board our coach with a local expert and head out toward Tenganan Village, here we will learn about a more traditional way of life famous for its geringsing, a double ikat (dyed) textile, woven in only 2 other places in the world. We then continue on to Besakih Temple, a Hindu temple situated on the slopes of Mount Agung. It is the most important, largest, and holiest temple of Balinese Hinduism, perched nearly 1,000 meters up the side of Gunung Agung.

At a local restaurant.

We will board our coach and head back to Benoa and our ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Benoa 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 coach 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.

Today is about discovering a new hybrid culture. The term Peranakan primarily refers to the Straits-born Chinese community - descendants of early Chinese immigrantswho raised families with wives from the indigenous Malay community, developing a uniquely hybrid culture which endures today. This culture is expressed through language (Baba Malay), cuisine, fashion, and intricate craftsmanship. We will enjoy a cultural exploration of this fascinating area of Singapore, discovering the sites, sounds and smells that make this place so unique.

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 Phu My, Vietnam.

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

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

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

This morning we depart Phu My by coach for a 1 hour scenic drive through lush countryside heading for Vung Tau. Visit the Whale Temple, dedicated to whales which the locals believe protect fishermen and their boats from harm. When a whale washes ashore, villagers bring it to the temple, hold a festival with songs and dances, and eventually display its bones after a traditional burial. Next, visit the former royal residence of Bach Dinh, also called the White Palace. Here stroll through frangipani-scented gardens and take in sweeping vistas over the bay.

At a local restaurant.

This afternoon we will journey into the unspoiled countryside of Ba Ria Province, an area little touched by modern development and where locals still live as their ancestors did. Visit a traditional family home where we will share stories of their simple yet culturally rich lives. Next we continue with a visit to a local workshop to observe the process of making rice paper, followed by a stop at a local distillery for a taste of rice wine, known as “moonshine.”

Aboard ship.

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

Depart from the port and travel south along the scenic coastline to Hoi An, a riverside town where history and culture intertwine like threads in a silk tapestry. Once a bustling trading port, Hoi An today enchants visitors with its 15th–19th century architecture, glowing lanterns, and timeless charm—offering a captivating journey back in time. Upon arrival, take part in a lantern-making workshop. Under the guidance of skilled local artisans, learn how to craft your own colorful lantern while discovering the stories and symbolism behind this beloved tradition. With most motorized vehicles restricted, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is best explored on foot. Wander through narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses, atmospheric assembly hall, and lively markets as you soak in the town’s old-world allure. Visit the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, a masterpiece of cultural fusion, then stroll to the busy waterfront where colorful fishing boats gently bob along the Thu Bon River. Continue to a tea house that supports disadvantaged youth, where most of the staff are hearing-impaired. Communicate your order—perhaps tea, coffee, or homemade cookies—through handwritten notes or wooden word blocks, creating a heartwarming and memorable experience.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Da Nang at 1:00 pm on our journey to Halong Bay Vietnam.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, meet our local expert for a short 10-minute walk to the local boat station. Here we will embark for a scenic cruise through hundreds of islands. We will stop at Surprise Cave, the largest and most impressive grotto in Halong Bay. Located 25 meters above sea level and stretching 200 meters deep, the cave spans 10,000 square meters. Inside, we’ll encounter fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, as well as evidence of human presence dating back to 10,000–8,000 BC. Next, our voyage continues to Titov Island, where we may take a refreshing swim on its sandy beach beneath towering rock cliffs. Please remember to pack a bathing suit.

Aboard the boat in Halong Bay.

After lunch we will have a change of pace with a guided kayaking adventure in the Luon Cave area. Paddle through calm, crystal-clear waters framed by dramatic limestone cliffs, and marvel at the unique rock formations. After our kayaking experience, our junk will cruise back to the local boat terminal and we rejoin the ship.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Halong Bay at 9:00 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.

This morning we board our coach and set off from the port to discover the rich history of this region, making first for Fo Guang Shan Bouddah Monastery. This magnificent Buddihst monastery complex is home to the tallest seated Buddah statue and is set in peacful gardens accompanied by local cultural exhibitions.

At a local restaurant.

Following lunch, we continue our exploration with a visit to the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. These iconic twin pagodas are set on a tranquil lotus pond. It is said that entering the pagoda through the dragon's mouth and departing through the tiger's symbolises turning bad luck into good fortune. Following our visit, we will rejoin the coach for a scenic drive back to the port to end our day. The ship is scheduled to leave Kaohsiung at 5:00 pm on our journey to Keelung, Taiwan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Free morning to enjoy the the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to arrive in Keelung at 10:00 a.m.

Meeting our local expert, today we begin by making our way to a local restaurant for lunch.

Visit the National Palace Museum, home to one of the worlds largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts spanning thousands of years of recorded history. Continuing our discovery, we will next encounter the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. This iconic Taipei landmark is famous for its grand architecture, peaceful gardens and historic exhibitions. Next, journey on to Longshan Temple, one of Taipei's oldest and most famous temples, showcasing traditional Taiwanese religious architecture and cultrual heritage in stark contrast to the modern metropolis. Lastly, we exchange historic for modern, making for the Taipei 101 Skyscraper and it's Observatory Deck. Accessed by elevator and affording stunning panoramic views of of the city, this will be our final stop before rejoining our coach and returning to the port and our ship.

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.

Our journey through Okinawa begins at Shuri Castle Park, the former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom and a symbol of the island’s unique cultural identity. The castle’s striking vermillion gates, stone walls, and elegant courtyards reflect a distinctive blend of Chinese and Japanese architectural influences, while the restored halls and ceremonial spaces offer insight into the political and cultural life of Ryukyu royalty. Strolling through the grounds, appreciate the panoramic views of Naha city and the subtropical landscape that surrounded the kingdom. Next, continue to Shikinaen Garden, a UNESCO-listed example of traditional Ryukyuan landscaping. Built as a secondary villa for the royal family, the garden features carefully arranged ponds, stone bridges, winding paths, and lush subtropical vegetation. The design embodies harmony with nature, offering a tranquil setting to understand the Ryukyuans’ appreciation for seasonal changes, water features, and aesthetic balance. We will return to the ship for lunch.

Aboard ship.

Following lunch onboard, we will continue our discovery of Okinawa to a Dojo for an authentic Karate experience. Originating in Okinawa, Karate is more than a martial art; it is a reflection of the island’s philosophy of discipline, respect, and balance. Guided by experienced instructors, participants can try basic techniques, gaining hands-on insight into a centuries-old tradition deeply intertwined with Okinawan culture. Finally, the exploration concludes at Kokusai Street, the bustling commercial heart of Naha. Lined with shops, cafés, and local artisan stalls, the street offers a taste of contemporary Okinawan life. Enjoy free time to browse traditional crafts, sample local foods, and soak in the vibrant street atmosphere before returning to the port.

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, we will board small local boats and journey into the natural and cultural treasures of Amami Oshima at Mangrove Forest Park. Here dense mangroves line the tidal rivers in a vibrant subtropical ecosystem. We'll glide quietly through the waterways, observing the unique flora and fauna while learning about the ecological importance of these coastal forests in protecting the shoreline and sustaining local wildlife. NOTE: comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended for the boat excursion in Mangrove Forest Park. Following the mangroves, the we will travel to a local restaurant for lunch.

At a local restaurant.

We will head to Amami Oshima Tsumugi Village where we will participate in a mud-dyeing experience. Known locally as “dorozome,” mud dyeing is a centuries-old technique in which silk is soaked in iron-rich mud, producing deep, earthy hues and unique patterns on the fabric. NOTE: During the mud dyeing experience in Amami Oshima Tsumugi Village, participants will dye a cotton handkerchief (approximately 44 cm x 44 cm). Please note that for the mud dyeing experience, participants will be provided with waterproof rubber trousers to wear when entering the water; therefore, comfortable clothing is recommended. The village offers a tangible connection to local heritage, with opportunities to see finished tsumugi silk and purchase authentic souvenirs. We will return to the ship early afternoon. 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.

Drive from port to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, where the somber history of the city comes into view. The museum chronicles the events of August 9, 1945, with exhibits detailing the aftermath of the atomic bombing, survivor testimonies, and artifacts that bear witness to the human and urban impact. Adjacent to the museum, Peace Memorial Park provides a contemplative setting, with monuments and sculptures commemorating the lives lost and the hope for global peace. We then continue to the lively streets of Nagasaki Chinatown, one of Japan’s oldest Chinese districts. Stroll through the vibrant alleys, observing the fusion of Japanese and Chinese architecture, and visit the Confucius Shrine, a striking example of Ming-style design, where red pillars and ornate roofs reflect centuries of cultural exchange and the city’s historic role as a trading port.

Free time for lunch on your own in Chinatown.

The journey continues to Dejima, an artificial island once built during the Edo period to accommodate Dutch traders and limit foreign influence. Here, at the Nagasaki Kenban, enjoy an elegant geisha performance. The Kenban, historically responsible for training and coordinating geisha, continues to preserve these regional performing arts—characterised by graceful choreography, melodic shamisen accompaniment, and the subtle aesthetics unique to Nagasaki’s port culture. Following the performance, explore Dejima. Once Japan’s only window to the world, Dejima served as a crucial hub for the exchange of scientific knowledge, art, and culture between Japan and the West. Today, its restored warehouses, merchant residences, and cobbled streets vividly recreate the atmosphere of this historic enclave. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the district, taking in exhibits that reveal how Dejima became a meeting point of ideas and innovation during Japan’s formative years of international exchange. We will return to the ship late afternoon.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

From Nagasaki’s port, our journey begins toward the departure point for the Gunkanjima Cruise, an exploration that unveils one of Japan’s most haunting and fascinating industrial relics. Officially known as Hashima Island, Gunkanjima earned the nickname “Battleship Island” for its fortress-like silhouette rising from the sea. Once a thriving coal-mining settlement operated by Mitsubishi, the island symbolised Japan’s rapid industrialisation during the Meiji and Taisho eras. At its peak in the 1950s, more than 5,000 residents lived in tightly packed concrete apartments, sustained by the undersea mines below. After the mine’s closure in 1974, the island was abandoned, leaving behind a ghostly landscape of crumbling buildings that now stands as a poignant reminder of Japan’s modern history and its post-war transformation. NOTE: This cruise is weather dependent, all decisions regarding landing are made by the ship’s captain on the day of operation. The ship may experience strong motion once it reaches open waters. Participants concerned about seasickness are advised to take motion sickness medication beforehand.

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 coach and enjoy a scenic drive through Shizuoka’s countryside to Obuchi Sasaba, one of the most picturesque tea fields in Japan. Here, rows of vibrant green tea bushes stretch toward the horizon, framed by the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji — a view often celebrated in traditional art and photography. Enjpy a tea-tasting experience, savouring the delicate aroma and nuanced flavour of freshly brewed local green tea. The region’s tea cultivation dates back to the Edo period, when Shizuoka became Japan’s most prominent producer of high-quality tea, its fertile volcanic soil and pure spring water nurturing leaves prized for their fragrance and depth. A short drive leads to the breathtaking Shiraito and Otodome Falls, two natural wonders flowing from the same mountain streams that descend from Mount Fuji. Shiraito Falls, with its countless thin threads of water cascading gracefully from a 150-metre-wide cliff, evokes a curtain of white silk shimmering in sunlight. Nearby, Otodome Falls roars with striking power, its name — “Sound-Stopping Falls” — said to derive from an ancient tale of samurai warriors who paused here to make a solemn vow before battle.

At a local restaurant.

Visit Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, an architectural marvel designed to resemble an inverted cone, symbolizing the sacred mountain reflected in water. The centre immerses visitors in the cultural and spiritual heritage of Mount Fuji, exploring its role as a source of artistic inspiration and religious reverence throughout Japan’s history. Exhibits highlight centuries of pilgrimage, mythology, and the mountain’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending modern technology with poetic storytelling. We will drive back to port. The ship is scheduled to leave Shimizu at 5:00 pm on our journey to Yokohama, Japan.

Aboard ship.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

We will board our coach and head to the Sumo Museum, located within the Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s famed sumo arena. Exhibits of ceremonial aprons, woodblock prints, and wrestler memorabilia shed light on a sport rooted in Shinto ritual and centuries of custom. The displays convey how sumo embodies strength, respect, and spiritual dedication, maintaining a direct link between Japan’s ancient and modern identities. A short walk away, the Sumida Hokusai Museum celebrates the life and work of Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan’s greatest artists. The striking contemporary building, designed by Kazuyo Sejima, stands in the neighbourhood where Hokusai was born and lived much of his life. Inside, his masterpieces — including The Great Wave off Kanagawa — illustrate his bold innovation, fascination with nature, and lasting influence on both Japanese and Western art. Next, we will head toTsukiji Market, a lively centre of Tokyo’s culinary culture. Though the wholesale market has relocated, the outer market remains filled with bustling food stalls and small eateries offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional snacks. Discover the market on a walking excursion through its narrow lanes with a local expert and learn about the daily energy and precision that have long defined Japanese cuisine.

Cash will be provided to participants to choose what they want for lunch.

Explore Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most atmospheric districts and home to the city’s oldest temple,Senso-ji. Approaching the temple through Nakamise-dori, lined with craft shops and traditional confectioneries, step into the ambience of Edo-period Tokyo. The vivid red pagoda and great Thunder Gate reflect centuries of devotion, while the fragrance of incense and hum of visitors preserve the spiritual heart of the old city. A panoramic drive back to Yokohama Port offers a final glimpse of Tokyo’s skyline — where enduring tradition and modern ambition coexist in perfect balance.

Aboard ship.

At leisure. The ship will remain in port overnight.

Aboard ship.

The day begins with a visit to Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s earliest public parks and a cherished cultural centre. Once the grounds of the Kaneiji Temple, a powerful Buddhist complex that served the Tokugawa shoguns, the area was transformed into a public space in 1873, modelled after Western city parks. Its tree-lined avenues are dotted with museums, shrines, and monuments, reflecting Japan’s transition from feudal to modern society. As we walk through the park, sculptures, lotus-filled ponds, and historical sites offer a tranquil contrast to the city’s bustle, while hints of its past as a temple precinct remain visible in the ancient pagodas and stone lanterns scattered among the greenery. Within the park stands the Tokyo National Museum, Japan’s oldest and most prestigious museum. Established in 1872, it houses the nation’s largest collection of cultural treasures — from prehistoric Jomon pottery and samurai armour to delicate Buddhist statuary, tea ceremony utensils, and Edo-period scrolls. After exploring the museum, we'll take a scenic drive back to Yokohama Port.

Aboard ship.

Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Yokohama at 5:00 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.

We begin our day by meeting our local expert and making for Goryoaku, Japan’s first Western-style star fort. Constructed in the 1850s during the final years of the Tokugawa shogunate to strengthen coastal defences, the vast pentagonal layout is inspired by European military designs. Continue towards Hakodate’s Motomachi district, once the centre of international exchange after the port was opened to foreign trade in 1859. Here, we'll take in hillside streets lined with 19th-century churches, consulates, and merchant residences, reflecting Russian, British, and Chinese influences that shaped the city’s cosmopolitan character. Next we board the Hakodateyama ropeway which provides a panoramic ascent to one of Japan’s most celebrated viewpoints, overlooking the bay and mountains.

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.

NOTE: this field trip is provided through Holland America due to port contstraints. We will board our motorcoach with our group leader and head out to discover Kodiak. View Cannery Row and the boat harbor as we drive into the city. Visit the Kodiak History Museum to examine its eclectic mixture of Native, Russian and American exhibits. We will then visit the Alutiiq Museum, explore 7,500 years of Alutiiq/Sugpiaq heritage and ancestral artifacts for a glimpse into Alaska Native culture and lifestyle. A short drive north brings us to Fort Abercrombie State Park -- a World War II historic site. Feel free to explore the old gun emplacements and visit the Military History Museum within the bunker-style headquarters, and don't miss the beautiful views over land and sea.

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.

Meeting our local expert and coach, this morning we set out to discover a garden of glass, planted under glass, Chihuly Gardens. This soaring installation located at the foot of the famous Seattle Space Needle showcases the most dazzling works of internationally acclaimed glass artist Dale Chihuly. With 45,000 square feet of galleries and landscaping, it’s a sensational new art experience at the landmark Seattle Center. After discovering the astonishing works of Chihuly we continue our exploration with the 605-foot-high Space Needle. A product of the 1962 Seattle World’ Fair, this iconic landmark is a must see. We'll take the elevator to the sky-high observation deck, set at 520 feet, where there’s nothing blocking our 360 degree panoramic views of the Emerald City. Gaze down on Elliott Bay’s bustling waterfront; watch the state ferries crisscross Puget Sound, and scan the majestic purple ridges of the Olympic Mountain range. Following our visit we will rejoin our coach for the return journey to the port.

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.

We will begin our culinary exploration of San Diego's most vibrant food scene with a short walk from the pier to Little Italy. San Diego's Little Italy is the largest in the USA and one of the chickest neighborhoods for dining and living in San Diego. The entire neighborhood is adorned with flowers and the restaurants and shops are kept small and local. We begin our day at the beautiful fountain in Piazza della Famiglia before strolling through Little Italy, led by our local expert. We'll hear the history of the immigrant fisherman who settled in this area over a hundred years ago and how it transformed into the vibrant neighborhood it is today. Along the way we will stop at some local restaurants to sample their wares before returning to the pier on foot.

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 coach with our group leader and ride to the Ecological Turtle Center. Enjoy a scenic one hour drive with a local expert through the countryside where our visit will begin at the renowned Ecological Turtle Center. Learn about conservation efforts for sea turtles, iguanas and crocodiles and see how a local community can make an impact in creating awareness through education. We will then continue with a visit to the Community Museum of Salt to learn about traditional salt harvesting.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch we will head back to port and board the 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.

The ship is scheduled to arrive in Puerto Chiapas at 10:00 a.m. Later in the morning, we will board our coach with a local expert and ride to the town of Tuxtla Chico. We'll begin at Casa Chocolah La Parra where artisans demonstrate chocolate-making from cacao bean to finished product using generational techniques.

Traditional regional lunch at a local restaurant.

Conclude with a visit to downtown Tuxtla Chico, including the colonial Iglesia La Candelaria. Later in the afternoon, we will return to port and board the ship.

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.

When arriving in port, we will be greeted by views of the serene coastline and the small town of Acajutla. We will board our coach and ride to the Joya de Ceren — the Pompeii of the Americas — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves a pre-Hispanic farming village buried by volcanic eruptions in 600 A.D. As the UNESCO inscription states, the exceptional condition of the remains provide an insight into the daily lives of the Central American populations who worked the land at that time. We’ll have a presentation by a local expert on the discovery and importance of this site.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch, we'll head back to port to board the 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. The ship is scheduled to arrive in Fuerte Amador at 5:00 p.m. Located west of Panama City at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador is a gateway to exploring the many faces of this unique Central American country. Joining our group leader and local expert, we will disembark the ship in the early evening and drive to Casco Antiguo. Enjoy a walking exploration of the old city covering multiple plazas, focusing on Panama’s history and the city's important buildings and their architecture from the outside.

At a local restaurant where we will also enjoy a folkloric dance presentation. Our Panamanian local expert will talk about the importance & meaning of the dances presented and provide information on the traditional outfits – especially the polleras.

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.

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 coach 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!