The New Year brings with it a whole world of opportunities. The opportunity to try new things. The opportunity to make our wildest dreams come true. And at Celebrity, the New Year means there’s 365 days to bring cruisers the opportunity to explore faraway lands and experience the essence of each destination through exciting and extraordinary Shore Excursions. In 2014, we took you from the depths of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to the heights of the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska. And in 2015, we’re taking you even further with an array of more exotic, immersive, and unique Shore Excursions that cater to every traveler’s desires – including several overnight and three-day tours. Check out our worldwide picks for next year’s top Shore Excursions.
Europe
Turkish Delights: Cappadocia Overnight Tour
Istanbul, Turkey –Turkish Delights: Cappadocia Overnight Tour – Because a few hours just doesn’t cut it, we’re bringing you the chance to enjoy not one, but two full days in Turkey. Discover the sights, sounds and historical treasures of this phenomenal country as you explore Istanbul, Kusadasi, and Cappadocia, with overnight stays in Cappadocia. A Turkish delight, indeed.
Edinburgh, Scotland –Signature Event Sailing: British Open Championship at Saint Andrews – Calling all golf enthusiasts. This is your chance to experience the 144th British Open, golf’s oldest Major, played on the legendary links of the Old Course at St. Andrews, the renowned “Home of Golf”. Follow the best players in the world as they vie for the championship, navigating the greens and bunkers of this hallmark course. This is the ultimate golf tournament experience.
Barcelona, Spain – A Celebrity Exclusive: Fashion Forward in Barcelona – If you’re a fashionista, you’ll love this Shore Excursion. Spend the day discovering Barcelona’s stunning sights, haute couture fashion, and indulging in typical Spanish cuisine. After exploring the city’s highlights, including Gaudi’s masterpiece “church, the “Sagrada Familia,” you’ll head to the famous Passeig the Gracia, where you’ll visit one of the avenue’s most famous luxury fashion shops and enjoy the exclusive opportunity to discover some of the secrets of the brand and learn about their upcoming collection.
Cannes, France – A Celebrity Exclusive: Zero to 60 – Ferrari Adventure in Cannes – Do you have a need for speed? If so, this is your chance to experience the ultimate rush of adrenaline and the sheer opulence of Italian craftsmanship while riding a classic Ferrari across the spectacular French Riviera. Climb into the passenger’s seat of your luxury sports car, buckle up, and hold on tight while your Ferrari soars across the thrilling switchbacks of the Cote d’Azur. It’s a Bond-style adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Barcelona, Spain – Family Tour Challenge – Family Flamenco Dance Off – Get your dancing shoes on, it’s time for the ultimate dance-off. After a private lesson to learn all the moves of the Flamenco, Spain’s most folkloric dance, you’ll hit the dance floor to compete with other cruisers for the title of best dancer.
Asia
The Jewels of India: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort 2-Night Tour
Mumbai (Bombay), India – The Jewels of India: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort 2-Night Tour: Ancient palaces, exquisite mosques, and thousands of years in history. All this – and more – is what’s in store on this two-night tour of India that features the incomparable Taj Mahal, a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World, and its sister structure, the Agra Fort. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time with this unique Shore Excursion.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – Are you a fan of luxury sports cars? Do you crave the thrill of racing at extraordinary speeds? If so, then Ferrari World will be your playground. Ferrari World is the world’s first Ferrari-themed amusement park and features dozens of activities and rides the entire family can enjoy, including F1™ courses and the fastest roller coaster on the planet. Get ready for an adrenaline rush worthy of the Grand Prix.
Benoa, Bali, Indonesia – Kecak Dance Performance – You are cordially invited to experience a unique Balinese dance performance in style at one of the oldest palaces in Denpasar, the stunning Puri Jero Kuta Palace. The Kecak, or monkey dance, is a mesmerizing fire dance illustrating the epic Hindu tale of the Ramayana. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the famous dance, featuring an elaborate choir of up to 50 performers, and savor traditional Balinese delicacies. History meets incredible entertainment on this memorable Shore Excursion in Bali.
Australia/New Zealand
All Aboard the TranzAlpine Express Railway
Tauranga, New Zealand –The Basket of Plenty – Experience the unique flavors of The Bay of Plenty on this exciting tasting tour that includes visits to an artisan bakery, fish market, and kiwi fruit orchard, and culminates in a special picnic experience. Sample local favorites and collect an array of delicacies for your “Basket” throughout the tour. The best part? You get to enjoy all your treats at a gourmet picnic lunch.
Bay Of Islands, New Zealand – A Taste of the Bay of Islands – Tantalize your taste buds as you spend the day enjoying the delicacies of the finest wine-makers and chocolatiers of Bay of Island. At the Marsden Estate winery you’ll sample local vintages and learn about wine production from expert wine makers. Then, you’ll head to Makana Confections, where you’ll sample beautiful – and delicious – chocolate treats. Bring your appetite, because you’re in for a real treat.
Tauranga, New Zealand – Harbourside Cycle: Surf & Colonial Explorer – Looking for a fun-filled adventure? This exciting bicycle tour offers the chance to explore the sights and sounds of Mount Maunganui and Tauranga. Cycle past ancient volcanoes and pristine beaches, all while learning about the ecology and geology of the region. Plus, you’ll discover the legends of the local Maori tribe as only local “Kiwis” are privy to.
Akaroa, New Zealand – All Aboard the TranzAlpine Express Railway – Spectacular scenery awaits as you ride New Zealand’s TranzAlpine Express deep into the magnificent Southern Alps. Pass through tunnels, gorgeous alpine plains, and verdant gorges as you ascend into the mountains. You’ll also experience the beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park (a 24,000-acre-wide rainforest), the stunning Cave Stream Scenic Reserve, and savor local delicacies at a local sheep farm. Experience New Zealand’s natural landscapes like you never imagined.
South America
Vintage Argentina: Antique Car Ride & Rojo Tango Dinner Show
Lima, (Callao) Peru – Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas (Deluxe) – Unearth the secrets of the ancient Inca Empire and experience the grandeur of the Andes on this exhilarating Shore Excursion. This extraordinary journey takes you on a three-day expedition across Peru, delving into the sacred and mystical landmarks of the Inca Empire, including the legendary Machu Picchu, Temple of the Sun, Fortress of Ollantaytambo, and countless other fascinating structures that have immortalized this remarkable civilization. But that’s not all; you’ll also enjoy a one-way ride and dinner on board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train “Orient Express” and five-star hotel accommodations.
Buenos Aires, Argentina – Vintage Argentina: Antique Car Ride & Rojo Tango Dinner Show – Step back in time to a bygone era of glamour and opulence, when wealth and luxury abounded across Buenos Aires. We invite you to spend a magical evening immersed in old-fashioned elegance, beginning with a ride across the bustling streets of Buenos Aires in an antique collection car. The adventure continues at the exclusive Rojo Tango, the city’s trendiest nightclub, where you’ll be treated to an incredible dinner and dance performance of Argentina’s infamous “Dance of Love”.
Cartagena, Colombia – Café San Alberto Coffee Tasting & Historical Cartagena – Awaken your senses with a historical tour across Cartagena’s Old City – and a hot cup of java. Enjoy a taste of the world’s finest coffee, Café San Alberto, during a hands-on workshop at the famed hacienda of San Alberto. After you’ve had a good dose of caffeine, you’re ready to explore the Old City and relive the days of Spanish treasure and swashbuckling pirates.
Manta, Ecuador – Las Tanusas Boutique Resort: Beach & Culinary Escape – Get ready for the ultimate pampering experience. On this Shore Excursion, you’ll escape to the magnificent Las Tanusas Boutique Resort & Villas, one of Ecuador’s best kept secrets, for a relaxing and blissful day. Feel the crisp ocean breeze on your face and take in the stunning views as you enjoy world-class service at one of the most pristine beaches in Ecuador and indulge in an incredible gastronomical feast, prepared with locally-grown, fresh ingredients.
Caribbean
Chocolate Seaside Workshop, Tasting and Wine Pairing
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Surf in the Sky: Puerto Vallarta Flyboarding Adventure – Craving new thrills? Then you’re sure to love this incredible Shore Excursion that introduces you to the latest craze in adventure water sports – flyboarding. Soar above the waves and into the air, feeling the rush of wind, water, and pure adrenaline as you enjoy the excitement of this unique, high-energy sport.
Cozumel, Mexico – Family Tour Challenge – Celebrity’s Amazing Race in Cozumel – If competition is what tickles your fancy, then head to Cozumel for Celebrity’s Amazing Race challenge. Go head-to-head with other families and groups on an exciting scavenger hunt across the city’s most notable sites and unique locales, including the Cozumel Museum, city center, a glass bottom boat, and a sunken ship. Solve clues and challenges at each location to reveal your next destination and be the first to solve the puzzle to be crowned winner.
Cozumel, Mexico – Chocolate Seaside Workshop, Tasting and Wine Pairing – Indulge your sweet tooth at the Interactive Chocolate Workshop, located at the famous – and stunning – Stingray Beach. Amidst spectacular views of the Caribbean you’ll learn all about the origins of chocolate, interesting ancient Aztec and Mayan processing techniques, and make your own Cocoa bar. For the grand finale, you’ll sample delicious chocolates paired with red wine (strange, we know, but oh so incredible), enjoy a Chocolate Martini, and savor zesty taco snacks. This is the chocolate lover’s paradise.
Roseau, Dominica – A Taste of the Past: Bois Cotlette Family Estate Tour & Tasting – Step back in time to a bygone era, when French and British colonialism dominated the island, as you explore the magnificent Bois Cotlette Family Estate, the oldest surviving family estate on Dominica currently producing coffee, sugar, cocoa, and other fresh crops. Learn about the estate’s fascinating history, sample fresh coffee, sugar cane, and cocoa picked right off a tree, and enjoy the exclusive opportunity to meet with the property owners and tour the grounds, dating back to the late 1700s.
Alaska
A Celebrity Exclusive: The Ketchikan Way
Ketchikan, Alaska – A Celebrity Exclusive: The Ketchikan Way – Take in the majesty of Ketchikan’s Misty Fjords National Monument from a unique perspective – high above it – aboard a private de Havilland Beaver floatplane. Experience Alaska’s unspoiled wilderness as you soar over 3,000-foot-tall granite walls, sapphire-hued glaciers, verdant spruce forests, and more. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, you’ll touch down upon the pristine waters for a picnic amid one of Mother Nature’s most ruggedly beautiful landscapes.
Skagway, Alaska – Family Tour Challenge – The Big Nugget – Experience the rustic Alaskan Frontier up close and personal on an adventure that combines fun, learning, and friendly competition. Follow in the footsteps of early pioneers as you master the art of gold panning, experience temperatures below 40 degrees, discover expert mushing tactics and tour a genuine gold dredge – all while vying for prizes and bragging rights. It’s your chance to see, feel and make history in Alaska.
Canada/New England
Oyster Lovers Experience
Saint John, New Brunswick (Bay of Fundy) – Wines of New Brunswick: Tour and Tastings – Love good wine and beautiful scenery? Here’s your chance to discover the sights, sounds, and flavors of New Brunswick as you travel through the verdant countryside and uncover the secrets of two local vintners. Learn about New Brunswick’s rich history from an experienced local guide as you make your way across the maritime province and enjoy a unique, behind-the-scenes tour of two award-winning wineries, with opportunities to sample local vintages.
Charlottetown, P.E.I. – Oyster Lovers Experience – If you love oysters, then you’re in for a real treat. Join local oyster fisher John Gillis invites at his beautiful waterfront home for a hands-on tour that introduces you to one of Prince Edward Island’s most coveted industries. Learn about oyster tonging and shucking, then give the craft a whirl yourself. Top off your day with an all-you-can-eat oyster feast, featuring the freshest and most flavorful oysters in the world, the Malpeque oysters.
Quebec City, Quebec – Legendary Quebec: Old Town Walking Tour & Tea at Chateau Frontenac Castle – Travel back in time to explore the history, culture, and magnificent sights of Quebec on this scenic tour. Explore such landmarks as the Place Royale, site of Quebec’s first settlement and Le Petit Quartier Champlain, the first “shopping street’ in North America. Then, enjoy tea at a very special location – Quebec’s iconic castle, Chateau Frontenac.
There you have it, our Top Shore Excursions for 2015. Which ones are you most excited to experience? Share your thoughts with us and fellow cruisers in the comment section below.
Filed under: Destinations