Three Queens of Cunard

Vancouver provides wealth of stunning scenery and endless year-round outdoor activities, from hiking in the surrounding mountains to riding a bike around the spacious Stanley Park - the perfect place to while away a couple of hours. Take a stroll to the atmospheric Gastown, a district filled with Victorian-style buildings, delicious eateries and fabulous art galleries. In the evening, you could head to a local cabaret and enjoy its lively atmosphere while sampling craft beer.

Today you’ll embark the regal Queen Elizabeth in Vancouver for the start of your Alaskan adventure. She’s one of the finest cruise liners sailing the five oceans and a ship that offers a little of the finer things in life to all her passengers. Enjoy Cunard’s spectacular heritage, sense of occasion and huge array of activities, including ballroom-dancing, lawn bowls and afternoon tea in the Garden Lounge.

The entertainment on Queen Elizabeth is second to none, with a dazzling line up of acts and performances in venues that are known for their comfort and meticulously designed décor. Whether its live music, illusionists, West End-style cabaret or stand-up comedians, the talent on show at the Royal Court Theatre is truly world-class and you’ll keep going back for more.

Alaska’s First City is a wonderful place to learn about the state’s native culture and admire a number of authentic standing totem poles – the world’s biggest collection. You can see more of these intricate carvings - each with their own design that tell stories of individuals and clans - at the Totem Heritage Centre. Ketchikan is also known for its salmon fishing and busy waterfront, buzzing with fishing boats and pleasure craft.

Juneau is Alaska’s capital and stands on the edge of the Alaskan wilderness. A giant icefield stands behind its mountains that created 38 glaciers, including the mighty Mendenhall Glacier just a few miles from the city. It’s also home to incredible array of wildlife, and nature lovers could have the opportunity to see sea lions, sea otters, whales, bald eagles and brown and black bears here.

Today you’ll cruise past the giant wall of blue-tinged ice that is the Hubbard Glacier. Over six miles wide where it meets the sea, this glacier is up to 400 feet tall and an awesome spectacle of nature. While the glacier has had two major surges in the last 30 years, it is more of a sleeping giant although it still calves icebergs that can be up to three or four stories high.

This gold rush town was once a lawless Wild West outpost, overrun by stampeding prospectors making their way to the Klondike. Today, their stories are told by actors who bring the town’s history to life on its boardwalks. But you can follow in the stampeders’ footsteps too by walking some of the Chilkoot Trail, the same route they followed on their way to the gold fields. Alternatively, board the White Pass Railway for a scenic valley train ride or go kayaking on Dewey Lake.

As its name suggests, Glacier Bay is an enchanting destination where blue-tinged glaciers lie at the base of snow-capped mountains and the wildlife is as spectacular as anywhere on the planet. There is also mile after mile of pristine pine forests that have carpeted the land for millennia. You’ll discover countless ways to enjoy Glacier Bay’s natural wonders from the Glacier Bay Day Cruise to whale watching, sea kayaking, flightseeing, or hiking.

Sitka is a hidden beauty on Baranof Island, facing the Pacific Ocean but towered over by Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano with the same conical features as Japan’s Mount Fuji. Sitka is still home to a number of restored buildings from the time when Alaska was owned by Russia, and you’ll also find remnants of Alaska’s indigenous culture here. Among the wildlife attractions here is the Alaska Raptor Centre which rehabilitates injured birds.

You’ll have plenty of options to choose from on your ocean-going days on board the Queen Elizabeth. One of the highlights of the voyage is undoubtedly the traditional English Afternoon Tea, featuring finger sandwiches, delicious cakes and fine teas – all served by Cunard’s impeccably dressed white-gloved waiters.

Victoria, capital of British Columbia, combines an old-world charm with a confident new outlook, evident in its bohemian shops and innovative restaurants. This bicycle-friendly, seaside city is easy to explore and offers a host of attractions, including the beautiful Craigdarroch Castle and Butchart Gardens, as well as outdoor activities including wildlife tours and whale watching. Canada’s oldest Chinatown is also found here, while it’s also a destination known for its relaxed pace of life.

Today you’ll disembark Queen Elizabeth and transfer to the airport for your flight to New York where you'll stay for one night. With icons from popular culture at every turn, from the Statue of Liberty and the neon lights of Broadway to Fifth Avenue's Museum Mile and Central Park's walkways, New York is the perfect destination to enjoy an activity-packed break. See where millions first stepped ashore at Ellis Island, visit the Empire State Building and Times Square or just enjoy a cream cheese bagel in Central Park.

Experience a transatlantic voyage unlike any other as you embark the regal Queen Mary 2, Cunard’s regal flagship, for your cruise to New York. Indulge yourself as you sip on refined cocktails, dance in the Queens Ballroom to the elegant sounds of the orchestra and savour delectable suppers served by white-gloved waiters.

Several days at sea allows you ample opportunity to experience all that your ship has to offer. There are so many activities to choose from, whether you catch-up with new-found friends on deck, savour extravagant stage shows in opulent theatre surroundings or take a dip in the whirlpools beside the pool. As dusk falls, embrace the inimitable Cunard glamour and dance the night away in the grand ballroom.

Southampton is a port city in the ceremonial county of Hampshire on the south coast of England and also known as the home port of some of the largest cruise ships in the world.

Lap up the inimitable elegance of the ship’s art deco interiors and enjoy its exceptional White Star Service. Revel in a bygone era at the Captain’s Collections and sip world-class wines in the restaurants. Or if you wish to while away the time like a true ocean liner passenger, you could head to the Commodore Club for your pre-dinner tipple, complete with the soothing tones of the pianist filling the air and views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Stavanger is a historical city filled with natural beauty and amazing sights. Visit the Utstein Abbey located in the little island of Klostero, a beautiful 13th century Augustinian monastery. Take a trip to Lysefjord where you can see the Pulpit Rock which is a 1,968 feet high mountain that overlooks the scenic fjord and surrounded by deep green waters and stunning landscape. In the heart of Stavanger is this city’s oldest cathedral.

Olden is a small tranquil village surrounded by rolling landscapes. Stunning valleys contrast against magnificent glaciers, cascading waterfalls, towering mountain ranges and quaint farming villages. The village is alive with activity, local trade and contemporary buildings. Olden is the gateway to the largest glacier in Europe’s mainland, Jostedal Glacier. This stunning 37 mile Glacier is breathtaking and will amaze and dazzle you.

Ålesund is one of Norway’s most beautiful towns, renowned for its Jugend style architecture and art nouveau style. Ålesund’s layout is unique as it is built on islands stretching out into the sea with scenic views of the fjords and Sunnmore Alps. This is the perfect destination for hikers, bird-watchers and people who appreciate natural beauty.

There are few places in Norway more beautiful than Bergen, especially with its classic bright, wooden houses that line the harbour. One of the many delights in this town is travelling up the funicular to capture the perfect panorama of the town and harbour. Whether you are checking out museums or enjoying a walk through the bustling markets, you’ll discover the quaint charm of Bergen.

The entertainment on Queen Mary 2 is second to none, with a dazzling line up of acts and performances in venues that are known for their comfort and meticulously designed décor. Whether its live music, illusionists, West End-style cabaret or stand-up comedians, the talent on show at the Royal Court is truly world-class and you’ll keep going back for more.

Today you’ll embark Queen Victoria at the port of Southampton for your fabulous Mediterranean cruise. Settle into this glorious ship, designed with every modern convenience yet graced with the timeless elegance of great ocean liners past. From her plush, elegantly decorated public rooms, enhanced with striking art deco touches, to her gourmet dining and luxurious cabins, Queen Victoria exudes class throughout.

Dining on board Queen Victoria is heralded as some of the very best at sea. Alongside Cunard favourites like the Britannia Restaurant, you’ll find themed dining experiences like Lotus for delicious Asian cuisine or Smokehouse, which offers an American-influenced menu featuring prime steaks and burgers. Or go alfresco at the Lido and eat wholesome Mediterranean cuisine in the cooling sea breeze.

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Its most famous export is of course fortified wine, and the hillside across from the city centre features numerous wine caves and tasting boutiques in the area of Vila Nova de Gaia. Sample the local fair in one of these specially adapted wine cellars and learn about the long adapted craft of creating port.

With so many amenities on board the Queen Victoria, your day can be as active and lively or as calming and relaxed as you like. You could take a refreshing dip in one of the swimming pools, surrounded by gleaming wooden decking and rejuvenating whirlpools, retreat to the spa, take traditional Afternoon Tea served by white-gloved waiters or indulge in a spot of retail therapy in the Royal Arcade.

Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, is known for its art and architecture. The fantastical Sagrada Família church and other modernist landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí dot the city.

Your hardest decision may be what to do today, during a day at sea. Dance lessons, Martini Mixology, Insight presentations, deck games, theatre productions or cookery demonstrations? Or you could choose to relax and unwind in the large spa, complete with treatment rooms, saunas and pool.

Rome is often described as being the world’s biggest open air museum - The Vatican's Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain where a tossed coin promises your return to the Eternal City. Take a walking tour of its many historical landmarks and enjoy the food, the culture, the ambience, and the surrounding scenery. There is no doubt you'll learn the meaning of la dolce vita (the sweet life) when you visit Rome.

Colonized six centuries ago, Alghero is characterized by its mighty fortifications rising above an emerald sea. Visit the town and explore the medieval towers and beautiful churches or the spectactular coastal sea caves of Grotta di Nettuno located at Capo Caccia Bosa.

From morning to night you’ll be spoilt for choice with activities and entertainment options on board. Take afternoon tea in the Queens Room, which at night turns into the largest dance floor at sea, or enjoy an evening at Illuminations, a luxury 3D cinema, a planetarium and a classical music venue.

A gateway to so many Andalucian attractions and Costa del Sol resorts, Spanish port of Málaga stands out in its own right as a vibrant destination with its own unique character. Rising high above the city with spectacular views, are the ruins of the 14th century Moorish castle, and Malaga-born Picasso is recognised with a history of the artist’s life at the city’s fascinating Picasso Foundation.

In keeping with Cunard’s luxurious and refined service, you can also enjoy daily traditional afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters in the magnificent Queens Room, accompanied by the gentle strains of the live orchestra.

Vigo is set in a beautiful natural environment and its cultural scene far exceeds its size. Try the local seafood at the port, go shopping at the Rua do Príncipe, or brave the blue fire of the traditional Galacian punch drink queimada.

Queen Victoria offers an array of elegant bars and lounges to suit every mood – during the day, sip coffee and nibble on croissants in Café Carinthia; enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the Chart Room; toast friends in the Champagne Bar; and dance the night away in Hemispheres.

Today you’ll disembark Queen Victoria and make your way to London. Make the most of your stay in Europe’s favourite capital city, bursting with iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, a dizzying Ferris wheel set beside the winding Thames. Head to the West End to see one of the long-running musicals, wander the elegant streets of Mayfair or see the most famous faces in the world carved in wax at Madame Tussauds. London is also packed with first-class galleries and museums that cater to every taste.

Your tour of two of London’s best-known royal palaces begins at Hampton Court, the oldest Tudor palace in the country and one of King Henry VIII’s favourite residences. Aside from the palace, other points of interest include the famous maze, rose gardens, and tennis court. After an afternoon tea at a Windsor restaurant you’ll then get to discover Windsor Castle. You can also visit the magnificent State Rooms and the newly restored St George's Hall.

Your luxury Cunard voyage complete, you’ll transfer to the airport for your flight home.