Lisbon
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Lisbon: Artistic Half Day City Tour
<p><strong><span>Visit the Jeronimo’s Monastery of Manueline architecture, the Monument of Discoveries, the Belen Tower, Baixa quarter, the National tile museum and the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceiçao Velha,</span></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span><span><span><span>4 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></span></span></strong></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>

<p><br />
<br />
<span><span><span>The Jerónimos Monastery, masterpiece of the Manueline style and a tribute to the king that welcomed and protected the Jews that fled from Spain and then expelled them in 1496. The Monument to the Discoveries </span>where you will have the opportunity to see the faces of Jewish men that participated actively in the Portuguese Golden Age of the Discoveries.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Monument to the Discoveries celebrates the Portuguese who took part in the Age of Discovery. It is located on the estuary of the Tagus river. The monument consists of a 52 metre-high slab of concrete, carved into the shape of the prow of a caravel with its sails unfurled.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Belém Tower is a fortified tower located in the Belém district of Lisbon. It was built in the early 16th century in the Portuguese late gothic style, the manueline, and is one of the symbols of the city. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Commerce Square with the beautiful façade of the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceiçao Velha. <span>The Church’s greatest highlight is its Manueline Portal representing Our Lady of Mercy, which was part of the ancient Misericórdia Church, featuring a tympanum with the images of the king D. Manuel the 1st, the Queen D. Leonor (sister of King Manuel and founder of the Order of Mercy) and Pope Leo X</span>, the Rossio square and the gothic revival elevator de Santa Justa. The heart of the city is the Baixa or city centre; this area is being considered for UNESCO World Heritage Site status.</span></span><br />
<span><span><span>The Museu Nacional do Azulejo or National tile museum is renowned for not only for its Azulejo (tile) collection but also for its location. Azulejo is a cherished Portuguese tradition that has enjoyed uninterrupted production for five centuries. Azulejo is glazed, ceramic tilework that is usually blue. It is a major component of Portuguese architecture and is found throughout the country on ceilings, floors, walls of churches, palaces, and homes. This museum occupies the ancient Convent of Madre de Deus (Mother of God), built in 1509 by Queen D. Leonor, and adjoining buildings including Saint Antony’s Chapel and a church noted for its Baroque style.</span></span></span></p>
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Lisbon: Historical Half Day City Tour
<p><strong><span><span>Visit the Saint George’s Castle with a magnificent view over the city, the medieval and old Jewish quarter of Alfama, the Church of Sao Domingos, the Cathedral and the Shaaré Tikvá synagogue if available. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span><span>4 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></span></span></strong><br />
</p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>

<p><br />
<br />
<br />
<span><span>The castle of Sao George is located on one of the seven hills of Lisbon, to the east of the Baixa. In the context of the Christian Reconquista the castle and the city of Lisbon were retaken from the Moors by King Alfonso Henriques</span></span> <span><span>with the help of Northern European crusaders taking part on the Second Crusade. The castle was dedicated to Saint George in the late 14<sup>th</sup> century by King John I.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Lisbon's ancient cathedral was built by Portugal's first king on the site of an old mosque in 1150 for the city's first bishop, the English crusader Gilbert of Hastings. From outside (with two bell towers and a splendid rose window) it resembles a medieval fortress, while inside it appears predominantly Romanesque, with a Gothic choir and ambulatory.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span>Jewish people were the advisors of Kings and Queens, doctors and even some of the explorers, geographers and mathematicians. The tour will start with a general introduction to the Jewish presence of the city, followed by a nice walk in the city centre passing by the site of the 1506 Jewish Massacre</span></span></span> <span><span><span>near the </span></span></span><span><span><span>Church of Sao Domingos</span></span></span><span><span><span> and the most well preserved Alfama </span></span></span><span><span><span>Jewish and medieval Quarter. Alfama </span></span></span><span><span><span>is a village within a city still made up of narrow streets, tiny squares, churches, and whitewashed houses with tile panels and wrought-iron balconies adorned with pots of flowers, drying laundry, and caged birds.</span></span></span> <br />
<br />
<span><span><span>With the abolition of the Inquisition in 1821, families of Sephardic Jews decided to return to Portugal. Most of these Jews were merchants from Morocco and Gibraltar. These were people with a cultural level greatly above average. They could read, speak and write in liturgical Hebrew, Arabic, English and Hakitia, the Moroccan judeo-hispanic dialect.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span>We will continue our tour with a visit to the only </span></span></span><span><span><span>Synagogue of Lisbon (Shaaré Tikvá), passing by the Commerce Square, the place where thousands of Jews were forced to be baptized in the 15th century. </span></span></span></p>
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Lisbon: Half Day Excursion to Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
<p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Visit the pretty and charming village of Sintra, former residence of the Portuguese Kings and aristocracy<br />
with the National Palace and continue to the fishing village of Cascais and the famous cosmopolitan town of Estoril. </font></strong></p>
<strong><span><span><span><span>5 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></span></span></strong>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Sintra is one of the most<br />
delightful places to be found in Portugal. With its extensive range of green<br />
bills with its crags - the Serra de Sintra - so picturesquely situated and offering<br />
stupendous views of the coastline with its impressive beauty, Sintra is indeed<br />
"a garden of the earthly paradise". The artistic heritage of the Old Town, described<br />
by Byron as "the most pleasing in Europe", also include valuable archaeological<br />
remains, particularly from the Roman period, ancient manor houses, churches<br />
of personalised artistic value and characteristic villages. </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The National Palace is consisting<br />
of various bodies built during the course of successive epochs on the so-called<br />
"Chão da Oliva", the Paço da Vila de Sintra is one of the most important examples<br />
of regal architecture in Portugal and for that reason is classified as a National<br />
Monument. This gradual multiplication of buildings, with different styles, is<br />
largely responsible for the enigmatic enchantment of this ancient palace, dominated<br />
by great twin chimneys atop the kitchen that constitute as authentic ex-libris<br />
of Sintra.</font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Cascais was a small fishing<br />
port throughout early history as it lies protected from nature's elements at<br />
the mouth of the Rio Tejo. When in 1870 the King, Luís I, chose to convert the<br />
17th Century building of the Citadela into his summer residence Cascais soon<br />
became a very fashionable town and aristocratic palaces and mansions followed.<br />
The Citadel or Fort of Cascais is a 16th century fortress built to protect the<br />
Bay of Cascais. Today, Cascais now boasts smart new Marina with lovely yachts. </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Just outside the town is<br />
the famous Boca do Inferno in which the sea on rougher days hammers into the<br />
rock and creates a booming noise and a spectacular spray thus creating its name<br />
which in English means "mouth of hell". </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Estoril town was really<br />
created from the curious needs of the two World Wars. It became a prime location<br />
for European royal exiles forced to leave their own countries. It has been the<br />
residence of King Umberto II of Italy, Juan de Bourbon of Spain, Karl Hapsburg<br />
of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and King Carol of Rumania. The many modest yet<br />
architecturally interesting mansions still remain to indicate their royal owners.<br />
At its height its visitors referred to Estoril as the "Portuguese Riviera".<br />
A Casino with wide surrounding avenues and spacious gardens, a golf course,<br />
all of which soon appeared and then flanked by large hotels and impressive private<br />
homes. </font></p>
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Lisbon: Full Day to Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
<span><span><strong>Visit the pretty and charming village of Sintra, former residence of the Portuguese Kings and aristocracy with the beautiful Pena Palace, drive to Boca do Inferno, and continue to the fishing village of Cascais and the famous cosmopolitan town of Estoril.<br />
<br />
<span><span>8 hour tour</span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><strong>Morning tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Moderate physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port </strong></span></span></strong></span></span>
<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<br />
<span><span>Sintra is one of the most delightful places to be found in Portugal. With its extensive range of green bills with its crags - the Serra de Sintra - so picturesquely situated and offering stupendous views of the coastline with its impressive beauty, Sintra is indeed "a garden of the earthly paradise". The artistic heritage of the Old Town, described by Byron as "the most pleasing in Europe", also include valuable archaeological remains, particularly from the Roman period, ancient manor houses, churches of personalized artistic value and characteristic villages.<br />
<br />
<span>It will be time to visit to one of the highlights of the day: the</span> <span>Pena Palace. Driving around the mountain passing by amazing chalets and aristocratic residences you will reach the 19th century Pena Palace in the most incredible combination of architectural styles, colors and shapes that you will find in Portugal.</span><br />
<br />
Cascais was a small fishing port throughout early history as it lies protected from nature’s elements at the mouth of the Rio Tejo. When in 1870 the King, Luís I, chose to convert the 17th Century building of the Citadela into his summer residence Cascais soon became a very fashionable town and aristocratic palaces and mansions followed. The Citadel or Fort of Cascais is a 16th century fortress built to protect the Bay of Cascais. Today, Cascais now boasts smart new Marina with lovely yachts.<br />
Just outside the town is the famous <em>Boca do Inferno</em> in which the sea on rougher days hammers into the rock and creates a booming noise and a spectacular spray, thus creating its name which in English means "mouth of hell".<br />
<br />
Estoril town was really created from the curious needs of the two World Wars. It became a prime location for European royal exiles forced to leave their own countries. It has been the residence of King Umberto II of Italy, Juan de Bourbon of Spain, Karl Hapsburg of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and King Carol of Rumania. The many modest yet architecturally interesting mansions still remain to indicate their royal owners. At its height its visitors referred to Estoril as the “Portuguese Riviera”. A Casino with wide surrounding avenues and spacious gardens, a golf course, all of which soon appeared and then flanked by large hotels and impressive private homes.</span></span>
-
Lisbon: An Exploration of Lisbon - 8 Hours
Lying north of the River Tagus estuary and stretching over seven hills, Portugal's capital city has much to offer. Receive a warm welcome at the port by your private guide and driver and from here commence your engaging tour of Lisbon.<br />
<br />
Explore the Belem district with its magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, an extraordinary example of Portugal's 'Manueline' style of architecture. Once populated by monks, the UNESCO-listed monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I to celebrate Vasco da Gama's discovery of a sea route to India in 1498. Time permitting, visit Torre de Belém (Belém Tower), one of Lisbon's most iconic buildings and symbolic of Portugal's great Age of Expansion.<br />
<br />
Next, it's time for a refreshment stop, where you may wish to sample the famous and scrumptious Pastéis de Belém (custard tarts). From here you return to you cruise ship.<br />
<br />
<strong><span><span><span>Highlights: </span></span></span></strong>
<ul>
<li><span><span><span>Discover the beautiful Belem district with its magnificent Jeronimos Monastery</span></span></span></li>
<li><span><span><span>Behold the priceless treasures on display at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and try the exquisite <em>pasteis de nata</em> local pastries</span></span></span></li>
</ul>

<div><br />
<strong><span><span><span>Tour Duration:</span></span></span></strong><span><span><span> 8 Hours<br />
<br />
<strong>Tour Can Operate:</strong> Morning / Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions:</strong> </span></span></span></div>

<ul>
<li><span><span><span>Private transport by luxury car or minivan</span></span></span></li>
<li><span><span><span>An expert local guide for 8 hours</span></span></span></li>
<li><span><span><span>Entrance fees to all sights and museums<br />
<span><span><span>All taxes</span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>

<div><strong><span><span><span>Exclusions:</span></span></span></strong></div>

<ul>
<li><span><span><span>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</span></span></span></li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
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Lisbon: Queluz, Sintra and Estoril – 8 hours
<span font-size:="" mso-ansi-language:="" mso-bidi-language:="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" mso-fareast-language:="" mso-fareast-theme-font:=""><font color="#000000">Venture outside of Lisbon to explore Queluz, Sintra and Estoril during your private shore excursion. Take the short driver to the sumptuous 18th-century Queluz Palace, where you can admire the magnificent formal gardens and azulejo-lined canals.<br />
<br />
Afterwards visit Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and Moorish emirs before them. Today, this town, nestling on the north side of the Sintra Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.<br />
<br />
Stroll through the town where charming streets are filled with fine handicraft shops. You then descend</font><font color="#000000"> to Guincho beach for a fabulous view of Cape Rock, the westernmost point of the European continent and continuing to the resort town of Estoril on the scenic coastal road with fantastic views, en route back to your cruise ship.</font></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span><span><span>Highlights: </span></span></span></strong>
<ul>
<li><span><span><span>Explore Queluz Palace, the summer residence of the Portugese Royal Family</span></span></span></li>
<li><span><span><span>Take a short drive to Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and a UNESCO Word Heritage Site</span></span></span></li>
</ul>

<div></div>

<div><strong><span><span><span>Tour Duration:</span></span></span></strong><span><span><span> 8 Hours</span></span></span></div>

<div><br />
<span><span><span><strong>Tour Can Operate:</strong> Morning / Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions:</strong> </span></span></span></div>

<ul>
<li><span><span><span>Private transport by luxury car or minivan</span></span></span></li>
<li><span><span><span>An expert local guide for 8 hours</span></span></span></li>
<li><span><span><span>Entrance fees to all sights and museums</span></span></span></li>
<li><span><span><span>All taxes</span></span></span><br />
</li>
</ul>

<div><strong><span><span><span>Exclusions:</span></span></span></strong></div>

<ul>
<li><span><span><span>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</span></span></span></li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
-
An Exploration of Lisbon (8 hours)
<strong>Highlights:</strong><br />
Lying north of the River Tagus estuary and stretching over seven hills, Portugal's capital city has much to offer. Receive a warm welcome at the port by your private guide and driver and from here commence your engaging tour of Lisbon.<br />
<br />
Explore the Belem district with its magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, an extraordinary example of Portugal's 'Manueline' style of architecture. Once populated by monks, the UNESCO-listed monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I to celebrate Vasco da Gama's discovery of a sea route to India in 1498. Time permitting, visit Torre de Belém (Belém Tower), one of Lisbon's most iconic buildings and symbolic of Portugal's great Age of Expansion.<br />
<br />
Next, it's time for a refreshment stop, where you may wish to sample the famous and scrumptious Pastéis de Belém (Portuguese custard tarts). From here you return to your cruise ship.
<ul>
<li>Discover the beautiful Belem district with its magnificent Jeronimos Monastery</li>
<li>Behold the priceless treasures on display at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and try the exquisite pasteis de nata local pastries</li>
</ul>
<strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 hours<br />
<strong>Tour can operate: </strong>Morning/Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible: </strong>Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions: </strong>

<ul>
<li>Private transport by luxury car or minivan</li>
<li>An expert local guide for 8 hours</li>
<li>Entrance fees to all sights and museums</li>
<li>All taxes</li>
</ul>
<strong>Not Included: </strong>

<ul>
<li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
-
Queluz, Sintra and Estoril (8 hours)
<strong>Highlights:</strong><br />
Venture outside of Lisbon to explore Queluz, Sintra and Estoril during your private shore excursion. Take the short driver to the sumptuous 18th-century Queluz Palace, where you can admire the magnificent formal gardens and azulejo-lined canals.<br />
<br />
Afterwards visit Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and Moorish emirs before them. Today, this town, nestling on the north side of the Sintra Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.<br />
<br />
Stroll through the town where charming streets are filled with fine handicraft shops. You then descend to Guincho beach for a fabulous view of Cape Rock, the westernmost point of the European continent and continuing to the resort town of Estoril on the scenic coastal road with fantastic views, en route back to your cruise ship.
<ul>
<li>Explore Queluz Palace, the summer residence of the Portugese Royal Family</li>
<li>Take a short drive to Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and a UNESCO Word Heritage Site</li>
</ul>
<strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 hours<br />
<strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions: </strong>

<ul>
<li>Private transport by luxury car or minivan</li>
<li>An expert local guide for 8 hours</li>
<li>Entrance fees to all sights and museums</li>
<li>All taxes</li>
</ul>
<strong>Not Included: </strong>

<ul>
<li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
-
Highlights of Lisbon (4 hours)
<span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Highlights:</span><br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<font color="#484848" face="Source Sans Pro, sans-serif"><span>See Belem Tower, one of Lisbon's iconic buildings and symbolic of the nation's Age of Expansion. Admire the impressive collection of painted and gilded Baroque coaches at the National Coach Museum.</span></font><br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<br />
<span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Tour Duration: </span><span font-size:="" sans="" source="">4 hours</span><br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Tour can operate: </span><span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Morning/Afternoon</span><br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Wheelchair Accessible: </span><span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Please enquire for more information</span><br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Physical Activity Level:</span><span font-size:="" sans="" source=""> Light</span><br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<br font-size:="" sans="" source="" />
<span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Inclusions: </span>
<ul font-size:="" sans="" source="">
<li>Private transport by luxury car or minivan</li>
<li>An expert local guide for 8 hours</li>
<li>Entrance fees to all sights and museums</li>
<li>All taxes</li>
</ul>
<span font-size:="" sans="" source="">Not Included:</span>

<ul font-size:="" sans="" source="">
<li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
|
09/29/2023 |
09/29/2023 07:00 PM |
Portimao
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Portimao (Algarve): Half Day Excursion to Lagos and Sagres
<p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Drive to the neaby town of Lagos with the Marina, the harbour, the Town Hall and the church of Santo Antonio. Continue to Vila do Bispo, Cape Saint Vincent, the lighhouse and Sagres with the walls and the church of our Lady of Graça.</font></strong></p>
<strong><span><span><span><span>6 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></span></span></strong>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The Romans gave the name of "Lacobriga" to the town of Lagos but its natural river port would indicate very much earlier occupation. The Moors then gave the town the name of "Zawaia" It was captured from the Moors in 1189 but it was not until 1249 that it was finally conquered by Dom Afonso III and integrated into the kingdom of Portugal with the name of "Lagus". This historic town has played an important part in the story of discovery of many parts of the world. It was from the harbour that Vasco da Gama sailed in 1499 on his historic and epic voyage of discovery. Lagos was the capital of the Algarve from 1578 until 1756 and there remain several ancient buildings to testify to its historic glory. </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lagos is now an important tourist town with many architectural signs of its ancient past, even a building dating originally back to around 1445 which is recorded as being Europe's first building used as a slave market. The walls of the town in the most part remain after sections were restored. Attached to the famous 17th Century "gold" church of Santo António there is a small museum of regional items, some of which are quite odd! The town's more recently constructed Marina presents a lovely picture and this harbour is practically the first sight a visitor has of Lagos. There are several interesting statues erected to the famous figures of the past that are associated with the history of this town. </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">We drive to Vila do Bispo a very small administrative town for the Sagres area, the later being the most south-west corner of Europe! This area is a must for every visitor to the Algarve as it presents a very impressive and dramatic sight of towering sheer cliffs being beaten by the weight of the vast Atlantic Ocean. It is from here that Prince Henry sat and planned the several epic voyages of discovery that enlarged the known world of that time. </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Sagres is close to the most south western point of Europe known as Cape St. Vincent. The legend of the martyr Saint Vincent is that his relics were mysteriously transported by ravens from the Holy Land to the Cape and subsequently guarded by them. The small chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça and reputably the giant pebble wind compass, Rosa dos Ventos. The present walls surrounding the area are the remains of a 17th Century fort. At the nearby Cape St Vincent is an impressive lighthouse that can normally be visited. </font></p>
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Portimao (Algarve): Full Day Excursion to Lagos, Sagres and Silves
<p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Drive to the neaby town of Lagos with the Marina, the harbour, the Town Hall and the church of Santo<br />
Antonio. Continue to Sagres with the walls and the church of our Lady of Graça.<br />
Finally to Silves with remains of the castle, Roman bridge and the cathedral. </font></strong></p>
<strong><span><span><span><span>8 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning or tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></span></span></strong>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The Romans gave the name<br />
of "Lacobriga" to the town of Lagos but its natural river port would indicate<br />
very much earlier occupation. The Moors then gave the town the name of "Zawaia"<br />
It was captured from the Moors in 1189 but it was not until 1249 that it was<br />
finally conquered by Dom Afonso III and integrated into the kingdom of Portugal<br />
with the name of "Lagus". This historic town has played an important part in<br />
the story of discovery of many parts of the world. It was from the harbour that<br />
Vasco da Gama sailed in 1499 on his historic and epic voyage of discovery. Lagos<br />
was the capital of the Algarve from 1578 until 1756 and there remain several<br />
ancient buildings to testify to its historic glory.</font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lagos is now an important<br />
tourist town with many architectural signs of its ancient past, even a building<br />
dating originally back to around 1445 which is recorded as being Europe's first<br />
building used as a slave market. The walls of the town in the most part remain<br />
after sections were restored. Attached to the famous 17th Century "gold" church<br />
of Santo António there is a small museum of regional items, some of which are<br />
quite odd! The town's more recently constructed Marina presents a lovely picture<br />
and this harbour is practically the first sight a visitor has of Lagos. There<br />
are several interesting statues erected to the famous figures of the past that<br />
are associated with the history of this town.</font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Sagres is close to the<br />
most south western point of Europe known as Cape St. Vincent. The legend of<br />
the martyr Saint Vincent is that his relics were mysteriously transported by<br />
ravens from the Holy Land to the Cape and subsequently guarded by them. The<br />
small chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça and reputably the giant pebble wind compass,<br />
Rosa dos Ventos. The present walls surrounding the area are the remains of a<br />
17th Century fort. At the nearby Cape St Vincent is an impressive lighthouse<br />
that can normally be visited. </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Silves was once the capital<br />
of the whole district and was still referred to in the beginning of the 19th<br />
Century as the "Kingdom of the Algarve". Evidence shows that it was already<br />
a place of note in Roman times but it really became an important place during<br />
its occupation in the early 11th Century by the Moors. Giving it the name of<br />
Xelb, they constructed lavish palaces and created a cultural centre of learning<br />
for the whole Iberian Peninsular. Although it was important as a town it still<br />
fell under the mantle and control of Cordoba in Spain. It is recorded that in<br />
1189 there were over 15.000 inhabitants when the Knights of Santiago sacked<br />
the city with the assistance of the Anglo-Norman Crusaders. Two years later<br />
it was retaken by the Caliph Ben Yussef. In 1242 that it was again under the<br />
control of the Portuguese Kings. </font></p>


<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The impressive remains of<br />
the castle dates back to Moors and there is a impressive underground water reservoirs<br />
that are still used by the city today. As a reminder of the Romans occupation<br />
is the Ponte Romana, a fine strong bridge over the Rio Arade below the city<br />
walls and having been rebuilt from the original in the 15th Century. The city's<br />
earlier 13th Century Cathedral was built on the site of a Mosque and has suffered<br />
considerable alteration over the centuries. </font></p>
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Portimao (Algarve): Full Day Excursion to Faro, Olhao and Tavira
<span><strong>Drive through the east coast of the Algarve to the village of Tavira a labyrinth of pretty streets. Then we continue to Olhao to visit the fishermen quarter and to Faro city with the Roman walls, the cathedral and the church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo. </strong></span><br />
<br />
<strong font-size:="" trebuchet="">Tour Details:</strong><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<strong><span background-color:="" font-size:="" trebuchet="">8 hours tour</span><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<span background-color:="" font-size:="" trebuchet="">Morning tour</span><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<span background-color:="" font-size:="" trebuchet="">No wheelchair</span><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<span background-color:="" font-size:="" trebuchet="">Moderate physical activity</span><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<span background-color:="" font-size:="" trebuchet="">Pick up and drop off at the Port</span></strong>
<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<br />
<br />
<span><span>Faro is the administrative centre for the whole of the Algarve region. The city has both Arab and Roman ruins but most of the present attractive older buildings were constructed after the disastrous earthquake of both 1755 and 1532. The Moors who occupied the town in the 8th Century originally gave the city it the name of Ossónoba and developed it into a trading port until 1249. They were then defeated by the forces of Dom Afonso III. During the 500 years of Moorish occupation there were some Jewish inhabitants in Faro who were kept busy printing copies of the Old Testament.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Particularly attractive is the old part of the city surrounded still by the Roman walls which date back to the 9th. Inside a spacious open square that was once the site of the Roman Forum is a 13th Century Cathedral that faces the 18th Century Episcopal palace. An interesting building is the neighbouring 16th Century Convent that is now turned into the home of the city’s archaeological museum. The "golden" church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is claimed to be the best example of gold-leaf woodwork in southern Portugal.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Next to the small boat basin bordering the Praça de Dom Francisco Gomes is a small Naval Museum composed of scale model boats and galleons showing the maritime history of the coast. Faro is also the home of the Ria Formosa lagoon, a nature reserve of over 17.000 hectares and a stopping place for hundreds of different birds during the spring and autumn migratory periods. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Olhao fishermen’s district is a nice place to visit, where you can see the whitewashed houses, some of them with tiles and flat roofs. Here, narrow streets cover the district and its possible to see the Moorish influence. If the visitor climbs to the bell tower of Nossa Senhora do Rosario church, they can contemplate all the city.</span></span><br />
<span><span>The fishermen's quarter is located between the quay on the Ria Formosa and the earth of the city defined by the main church. The streets that border the Avenida da República, itself a symbol of the urban development that took place at the turn of the century, reflect a city of industrials and ship-owners who grew rich from the fish processing business and trade, displaying their wealth by decorating their homes with verandas, tiles, carved stonework and wrought iron.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Tavira has a really nice old city centre made up by a labyrinth of streets with beautiful pavements. The centre hides gardens and wooded squares, churches, and worth-to-visit mansions. Visit the Misericordia church built between 1541 and 1551 and considered the most important Renaissance building in Algarve. The city also has a small fishing port.</span></span><br />
<br />
|
09/30/2023 09:00 AM |
09/30/2023 06:00 PM |
Rome (Civitavecchia)
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours
<div>Your driver will meet you at Civitavecchia today to transfer into Rome where you will be met by your expert local guide.<br />
</div>

<div></div>

<div>Begin your tour with a visit to the imposing Colosseum. Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian, the stadium could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators who came to view the gladiatorial battles that lasted up to 100 days! Adjacent is the Arc of Constantine which, dating from AD 315, is a forerunner to many other Triumphal Arches around the world. Possibly even more impressive are the excavations of the vast Roman Forum where the remains of temples, streetscapes, palaces and homes can be found.<br />
</div>

<div></div>

<div>After lunch, travel across the Tiber River to the Vatican City. Visit the Vatican Museums, part of the Papal Residence which is estimated to contain 1400 rooms, chapels and galleries. The Museums contain an extraordinarily rich collection of precious arts, maps, sculptures and antiquities but surely the most breath-taking masterpiece is Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. At the centre of the Vatican lies the vast Basilica of St. Paul, the world’s largest church where the colourfully dressed Swiss Guard can be found. The present Cathedral is a beautiful mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, formed under the hands of masters such as Michelangelo. The stunning interior is an elaborate and detailed display of marble, mosaic, gilt and bronze.<br />
<br />
<em>Your tour includes express entry to the Vatican Museums, past the regular lines. The Vatican requires visitors to cover upper arms and legs to below the knee.</em><br />
<br />
<strong>Highlights: </strong></div>

<ul>
<li>Tour some of Rome's most iconic sites including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum</li>
<li>Explore the impressive museum collections in the Vatican City and the breath-taking masterpiece that is Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel</li>
<li>Spend time in the Basilica of St. Paul, the largest church in the world</li>
</ul>

<div><strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 hours<br />
<br />
<strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions</strong>:</div>

<ul>
<li>Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour</li>
<li>An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)</li>
<li>Entrance fees to Colosseum, Imperial Forum and Vatican Museums</li>
<li>All taxes</li>
</ul>

<div>
<div><strong>Exclusions</strong>:</div>

<ul>
<li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
</div>

<div></div>
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Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours
<div>A tour designed for those who have visited Rome before, but would like to discover more of this fascinating city. Your driver will meet you at the port and bring you into Rome where your expert guide will be waiting for you.<br />
</div>

<div></div>

<div>Take a journey back in time at the church of San Clemente as you descend down three levels and through two thousand years of history. The medieval church was built over the remains of a 4th-century basilica which, in its turn, covers older buildings from the time of the emperor Nero and a sanctuary dedicated to the oriental divinity Mithras.</div>

<div></div>

<div>In the afternoon discover how Rome evolved through the 18th-century and visit the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a majestic royal residence of one of Rome’s most illustrious families. Believed to be the largest privately owned Palace in Rome, the Doria Pamphilj’s vast private art collection is still held here.<br />
</div>

<div></div>

<div>Your guide will also be delighted to make additional suggestions for your tour depending on your own personal interests. Alternatively, you may like to revisit some of your favourite places from your previous visit to Rome.<br />
<br />
<strong>Highlights:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>Visit the church of San Clemente and discover its fascinating history</li>
<li>Explore the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a majestic royal residence of one of Rome’s most illustrious families, which houses a vast private art collection</li>
</ul>

<div><strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 8 hours<br />
<br />
<strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/ Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour</li>
<li>An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)</li>
<li>Entrance fees to San Clemente and Doria Pamphilij</li>
<li>All taxes</li>
</ul>

<div>
<div><strong>Exclusions:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
</div>

<div></div>
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Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours
<div>Travel with your driver to Rome this morning to meet a food expert for a gastronomic walking tour of the Trastevere District, so called because it lies across the River Tiber. Trastevere was once the bohemian quarter of Rome and still retains its arty edge today. Explore the bustling market and ancient maze of streets whilst discovering the essence of Italy’s best loved food with tastings of gelato, Sicilian pastries, Jewish delicacies, meats and wine.<br />
</div>

<div></div>

<div>The remainder of the day can be spent as you wish, your vehicle and driver will remain at your disposal in Rome before returning you to Civitavecchia.<br />
<br />
<strong>Highlights:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>Uncover Rome's bohemian quarter, along with tastings of Italy's best loved delicacies </li>
<li>Car and driver at your disposal to discover Rome</li>
</ul>

<div><strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 hours<br />
<br />
<strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/ Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Low <br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour</li>
<li>An expert local guide (3 hours)</li>
<li>Entrance fees</li>
<li>All taxes</li>
<li>Food and wine tastings</li>
</ul>

<div>
<div><strong>Exclusions:</strong></div>

<div></div>

<ul>
<li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>

<div></div>
</div>

<div></div>
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Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours
<div>Your driver will meet you at the port and bring you into Rome where your expert guide will meet you. Begin your tour on Capitoline Hill and visit one of the oldest museum complexes in the world; the Capitoline Museums, originally founded by Pope Sixtus IV in 1471. Capitoline Hill has been a seat of religious or political power throughout the centuries, making it the most important of the “seven hills” of Rome. It was here that the most important temple in town, dedicated to Jupiter, the king of the gods, was built. See the ruins of the Temple of Jupiter and marvel at the magnificent bronze equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius at Campidoglio Square.<br />
</div>

<div></div>

<div>Afterwards, explore the museums, extended over two buildings; the Palazzo dei Conservatori, where you can view splendid frescoes portraying the history of Rome and the Pinacoteca (Picture gallery), and Palazzo Nuovo, where you can admire the wonderful sculptures. Finally visit the ancient Tabularium whose monumental arches overlook the Forum. <br />
<br />
Continue up along the Via Veneto to the elegant Villa Borghese, accompanied by your local expert guide and private vehicle. Surrounded by a leafy parkland, the villa was originally designed as a palace of pleasure and entertainment to house Cardinal Scipione Borghese’s incredible collection of antiquities, paintings and custom pieces. Today the collections of sculpture and paintings are among the most important in Italy. Admire the stunning Caravaggio canvases, Titian's enigmatic ‘Sacred and Profane Love’ and the striking sculptures by Bernini and Canova during this fabulous visit. Return to Civitavecchia from here.<br />
<br />
<strong>Highlights:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>Travel out to Capitoline Hill and visit one of the oldest museum complexes in the world</li>
<li>Visit Villa Borghese, home to a collection of sculptures and paintings that are among the most important in Italy</li>
</ul>

<div><strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 8 hours<br />
<br />
<strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br />
<br />
<strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br />
<br />
<strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br />
<br />
<strong>Inclusions:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour</li>
<li>An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)</li>
<li>Entrance fees to the Capitoline Museums and Villa Borghese</li>
<li>All taxes</li>
</ul>

<div>
<div><strong>Exclusions:</strong></div>

<ul>
<li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li>
<li>Gratuities</li>
</ul>
</div>

<div></div>
|
10/06/2023 07:00 AM |
10/06/2023 08:00 PM |
The Signature Collection – A Hosted Sailing
