Cunard’s ten most luxurious shore excursions

Cunard’s iconic Queens are known as the most luxurious ships at sea, and its shore excursions are every bit as extraordinary. 

In celebration of CLIA Cruise Week (running from Monday, 16th September, until Sunday, 22nd September, this year), which shines a light on cruise destinations and the experiences available while in port, the cruise line has revealed ten of its best shore experiences around the world—from Alaska to Australia. 

Whether it’s adventurous trips to inspiring locations, wellness retreats in volcanic mountain ranges or food tours showcasing local cuisines, Cunard offers a luxury shore experience to suit every traveller. 

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Our tours are carefully designed to provide exceptional experiences, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the culture, history and beauty of the world’s most captivating destinations. Whether guests are looking to explore iconic landmarks, enjoy unique culinary experiences or simply unwind in breathtaking surroundings, these shore experiences have been carefully curated to match the exceptional standards of a Cunard voyage.”

Soak up the scenery of the Hakkoda Mountains and immerse yourself in the centuries-old tradition of hot spring bathing at the Sukaya Onsen, one of Japan’s most prominent hot spring resorts. Sit back and revel in the wonderful scenery as you venture into the volcanic Hakkoda Mountain range, where you’ll cross the Jogakura-Ohashi Bridge, the country’s longest steel arch bridge (825 feet long and 400 feet high). When you reach the Sukayu Hot Spring, which dates back to 1684, you’ll sit down for a traditional lunch inside the ryokan. Then you’ll enter the onsen, which was recognised as the ‘first hot spring for the health of the nation’ in 1954. 

Marvel at the spellbinding passion and glamour of an evening tango show at Rojo Tango in the Faena Hotel, a cabaret theatre that boasts an intimate, luxurious setting with an extraordinary atmosphere. Your evening commences with a three-course dinner created by Faena Hotel’s world-class chefs, accompanied by some of Argentina’s best wines. Then, the evening heats up with an intense and sensual live tango show featuring professional dancers and singers, dazzling wardrobes and a live tango orchestra. 

Start your day with a fascinating city tour, taking in the highlights and sights of Rio de Janeiro, featuring a ride along the city’s most celebrated Guanabara Bay. Ascend via cable car to the stunning Sugar Loaf Mountain, rising 1,299 feet above sea level and experience breathtaking views of the Corcovado, sandy beaches, Rio de Janeiro-Niteroi Bridge and the city of Niteroi across the Bay. After lunch, visit one of the new seven wonders of the modern world, the famous and awe-inspiring Statue of Christ the Redeemer, at the top of Corcovado Mountain. 

Embark on an exclusive small group hovercraft wildlife expedition around Ketchikan and its remote areas. Climb aboard the US Coast Guard-certified Blackbird Hovercraft at the pier and take flight 20 inches above the water on a narrated journey of fantastic local attractions. Your scenic flight will offer up-close views of the Ketchikan waterfront and take you over gentle waves and along the jagged shoreline. Then, spend time exploring the remote beach on the beautiful Tongass National Forest shoreline before embarking on a marine wildlife expedition, searching for eagles, whales, harbour seals and more.

This tour takes you out into the Etruscan countryside, rich in vineyards and olive groves. You’ll seek out the quaint hill town of Tuscania, and your guide will explain how it developed in medieval times with magnificent walls, ramparts and churches. You’ll then have free time to wander the narrow cobblestone streets and absorb the atmosphere. A highlight of your tour will be a visit to an ‘agriturismo’ farmhouse to sample organic regional specialities, including superb olive oils and wine.

Join a group of specially trained guides who use their detailed knowledge of Norway and its ever-changing weather to lead you to areas for optimum viewing of the Northern Lights. They’ll also assist with camera settings to ensure you capture Mother Nature’s light show. Your guides will explain why this natural phenomenon occurs as you travel around searching for this celestial wonder. It’s always a magical occasion when a faint, colourful wisp or a great shimmering blanket of wavering light appears above you in the expansive night sky. 

This incredible four-day trip will see you traverse narrow, winding valleys with rugged gorges, spectacular snow-capped peaks and countless archaeological ruins. You will visit the timeless wonder and grandeur of Machu Picchu - the ‘Lost City of the Incas.’ Soaring over 600 metres above the rumbling Urubamba River, this misty haven is filled with remarkably preserved palaces, baths and temples. Later, you will visit the mysterious fortress of Sacsayhuaman and take in the sacred site of Koricancha to see the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, which was built on the foundations of the Inca Empire’s most important temple. 

Explore the gorgeous Tasmanian countryside, meet local producers and sample delectable fresh produce. Tasmania is renowned to foodies around the world for producing high-quality produce - and this excursion will allow you to sample wild abalone and oysters and hear about the thriving abalone industry. Try top-notch whisky from a famous distillery and savour gourmet cheeses, handmade chocolates and great coffee fresh from the farm in Coal River. You’ll also visit the historic locations of Salamanca, Battery Point and Sandy Bay. 

As you travel through dramatic volcanic scenery to the Blue Lagoon, your knowledgeable guide will reveal the history and science behind his famous natural geothermal spa. The Blue Lagoon is enveloped in a gorgeous volcanic landscape. It’s rich in minerals like silica, algae and sulphur, and its unique properties will melt your stresses away as your body absorbs the heat and healing powers of the water. Dotted around the Lagoon, you’ll find silica mud in wooden boxes that can be applied to your face and body. This pure-white geothermal mud deep cleans, exfoliates, and naturally strengthens your skin’s barrier function and smooths your complexion.

Wind your way from Western Market in Hong Kong Island through the island’s Central, Wan Chai and Admiralty Districts to Causeway Bay. Marvel at the sights of this vibrant and bustling city as your guide brings the street scenes around you to life. Continue to one of Hong Kong’s popular restaurants where you can indulge in a sumptuous eight-course traditional Chinese meal. Reboard your tram and take in the brilliantly coloured signs that illuminate Nathan Road, Hong Kong’s ‘Golden Mile’ of shops. Enjoy some free time for retail therapy at Temple Street Night Market, an amazing shopping district featuring rows of brightly lit stalls.