The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre- or post cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
New York - Overnight onboard
DAY 9 - 10 - 19 Jan 2023
There are simply too many places to mention when it comes to the Big Apple but highlights have to be: the Statue of liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, the Natural History Museum and the Met art museum- not to mention all the cool sights of downtown Brooklyn, swanky Manhattan and the classic skyline from Rhode Island. New York is a bucket-list destination that just cannot be missed.
Things to do in New York - Overnight onboard:
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is an essential part of any trip to New York, providing fascinating insights into the history of this vibrant city. Given to the US from France in 1886, Lady Liberty is situated on Liberty Island, a short and scenic ferry ride from Battery Park, New York.
Central Park
Located in Manhattan, New York, Central Park is a classic part of the city’s history after first being approved in 1853. There’s no shortage of sightseeing and events to do all the family will love, from Central Park Zoo to the Alice in Wonderland sculpture.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center has a plethora of attractions and events to discover that will suit all ages. Explore NBC Studios where entertainment and news come together and soak up the fantastic performances of The Music Hall featuring The Radio City Rockettes.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
As the third most visited art museum in the world, the Met is a must for lovers of art, history and culture. Featuring works from early Europe, ancient Egypt and modern art, this museum also contains vast collections of clothing and weaponry.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a quintessential landmark of New York City and provides an immersive insight into the history of this stunning building. Visitors can marvel at the views from the observation deck, before enjoying exhibits, shopping and dining.
Times Square
Renovated in 2016, what began as a small square in the 1880s has flourished into an iconic tourist destination filled with fantastic eateries, dazzling musical theatre and designer shopping, not to mention the famous advertising board.
Brooklyn Bridge
As the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge is a fantastic feat of the hard-work carried out in the late 1880s. A walk along this bridge takes approximately 25 minutes and is particularly stunning at sunset and sunrise.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
After first opening its doors in 1879, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral sees over five million visitors each year. The classic Gothic architecture is truly magnificent and features an organ with 9,000 pipes, over 4,000 stained-glass panels and beautiful sculptures.
Fifth Avenue
Located in Manhattan, Fifth Avenue boasts Museum Mile where visitors find the African Art Museum, Guggenheim Museum, the Met and more, while other landmarks include the Empire State building, the Rockefeller Observation Deck and Flatiron Building.
National September 11 Memorial and Museum
Located at the World Trade Centre site, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum commemorates the lives lost during the terrorist attacks in 1993 and 2001. The memorial consists of two reflecting pools, while the museum offers tours, exhibitions and multimedia displays.
New York Public Library
With nearly 6 million items (including books, e-books, audiobooks, music and films), the New York Public Library has no shortage of fascinating materials to discover. The main branch itself in Manhattan is a stunning New York landmark and a perfect photo opportunity.
Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes are an area of tranquil natural beauty famous for its vineyards and being the home of prestigious Cornell University. The eleven lakes which bear this region’s name present fantastic hiking locations in pleasant weather regularly throughout the year.
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
DAY 14 - 24 Jan 2023
The capital of the southern Dutch side of the Caribbean island of Saint Martin. A sun-filled paradise, Philipsburg is perfect for making the most of the golden sandy beaches and crystal blue sea. One quirk of the city is the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit - a must for any Star Wars fans!
Things to do in Philipsburg, St. Maarten:
Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit
This unexpected treasure in the Caribbean is an absolute must for movie fanatics and science-fiction enthusiasts. Showcasing the history of Nick Malley, who created Yoda from Star Wars, this museum boasts memorabilia from the franchise, such as scripts, storyboards and props.
Panama Canal Transit
DAY 18 - 28 Jan 2023
Joining the mighty Atlantic to the vast Pacific oceans from Colon on the west coast to Panama City to the east, the Panama Canal bridges the two worlds without having to traverse the infamous Cape of Good Hope around Chile by ships. The journey down through the canal and its impressive locks by cruise ship is a destination and unique cruise ship experience in itself.
Things to do in Panama Canal Transit:
Miraflores Visitors Center
The Miraflores Visitor Center provides fantastic insight into the history of the Panama Canal, through films, exhibitions and observation decks overlooking the Panama Canal locks. Visitors can join guided tours and enjoy delicious cuisine and souvenirs.
Huatulco
DAY 21 - 31 Jan 2023
Santa María Huatulco is a popular tourist spot for those cruising through Mexico due to the amazing indigenous Aztec architectural ruins in close by Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita. Here, visitors can explore pre-Spanish Mexican history by seeing the ancient temple and famous ceremonial ball game court, while the Bocano Del Río Copalita Museum boasts numerous wonderful artefacts obtained from the site.
Things to do in Huatulco:
Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita
The archaeological site of Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita provides a fantastic glimpse into the history of early Huatulco. Featuring uncovered temples and ball courts, the site also includes a museum and jungle trail to a lookout out on the cliff.
Cabo San Lucas
DAY 24 - 03 Feb 2023
Cabo San Lucas is the perfect destination to get out and about in the serene Mexican sun. From the picturesque harbour head south to the Lands End Peninsula. Here, you’ll find the beautiful Lovers Beach, perfect for snorkelling, before walking up Mount Solmar for unrivalled photo opportunities out over the town and the bay. Heading back into town the Museum of Natural History is a great for families while the resort to the east is a must for golf fans.
Things to do in Cabo San Lucas:
Natural History Museum Cabo San Lucas
This free museum is home to many exhibits, highlighting the fascinating archaeology, geology and culture of the area, including the history of the original inhabitants of Los Cabos, the Pericúes. Visitors will also find exhibits on the marine life, including the bones of a whale
Lands End, Cabo San Lucas
At the southern end of Cabo San Lucas you’ll find this spectacular rock formation known as Lands End. Created by rough wind and sea, this natural attraction is a fantastic opportunity to take photos and spot sea lions lazing on the rocks in the sun.
San Francisco - Overnight onboard
DAY 27 - 28 - 06 Feb 2023
Famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, steep streets with retro trolleys letting you hop on and off around the city in style and infamous Alcatraz, San Francisco is northern California’s hub for arts, cool cuisine in Chinatown and a myriad of film settings around Fisherman’s Warf. Visitors can marvel at the charming “postcard row” of delightful Victorian houses, and choose from a number of riverside bars to relax in.
Things to do in San Francisco - Overnight onboard:
Alcatraz
Situated on an island out in the San Francisco bay, Alcatraz was probably the world’s most famous high-security prison. Serving as a high-security jail for the US’s most hardened criminals it was said the facility was impossible to escape from- luckily, today the destination is a fascinating museum.
Golden Gate Bridge
Completed in 1937, the Golden Gate suspension bridge is one of the USA’s most iconic pieces or architecture. Spanning one mile across San Francisco bay out towards the Pacific, around the constructional marvel there is also got a gift shop and tourist facilities to match the stunning views.
Napa and Sonoma Valleys
The most famous international wine growing region in the whole of the USA, these scenic valleys of vineyards are a must for anyone who loves wine-tasting in some of the world’s most beautifully manicured landscapes.
Hilo, Hawaii
DAY 33 - 12 Feb 2023
Located on the ‘big island’ of Hawaii itself, Hilo is a typical Hawaiian town closed to the Wailuku State National Park, famous for the rainbow falls due to the shimmering colours cast by the spray reflecting the gorgeous light of the sun above. The distinctive ‘boiling pot’ lava pools bubbling away are also in the vicinity, along with Kilauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes
Things to do in Hilo, Hawaii:
Wailuku State National Park
This scenic park is famous for two major natural attractions- the Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls. The Boiling Pots are a series of hot pools flowing like bubbling water, while Rainbow Falls is an 80ft waterfall casting spectrums of light as the spray catches the sun.
Honolulu, Oahu
DAY 34 - 13 Feb 2023
Honolulu is famous not only for laid-back Hawaiian style and gorgeous beaches, but also as the location of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which visitors can learn about at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. To explore the wilderness of Honolulu, the grand Iolani Palace and Nuʻuanu Pali mountain are also well worth a visit, while a Helicopter tour is a must for unrivalled views of land and sea.
Things to do in Honolulu, Oahu:
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Also known as the USS Arizona Memorial, this floating shrine is only accessible by boat and sits directly over the sunken warship. The resting place of 1077 crewmembers whose names are enshrined on the memorial, here you can see parts of the craft still jutting out of the water.
Nuʻuanu Pali Mountain
This breath-taking vantage point offers unrivalled views of the Koolau Cliffs and Windward Coast. Nestled among mountain peaks at over a thousand feet high, visitors can take in the scenery of the lookout for free before carrying on to the town or coast.
Iolani Palace
This beautifully restored palace is a key part of Hawaii’s identity. Built in 1882, this restored landmark features original artefacts including furniture, accessories and photographs. Visitors can tour the palace, gallery and grounds self guided or with a guide.
Singapore - Overnight onboard
DAY 70 - 71 - 22 Mar 2023
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an exotic yet easy-to-navigate cruise destination. Singapore has long been Asia's crown jewel, with a plethora of glitzy shopping malls, rooftop cocktail bars and fine dining opportunities. It's modern, classy and blessed with lots of sun for a day of exploring.
Things to do in Singapore - Overnight onboard:
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a haven for nature lovers, located near the Marina Bay Waterfront in the heart of Singapore. Gardens by the Bay has hidden gems such as unique plantlife, calm gardens and unique spots to relax in, as well as its expansive conservatories.
Merlion Park
Merlion Park, named after the water-spouting Merlion statue, is an essential Singaporean landmark. The Merlion is Singapore's national symbol, with a lion's head and fish's body. The park is popular with tourists and locals alike, who come to take photos of the outstanding scenery, the famous statue and relax by the water.*
Mint Museum of Toys
The Mint museum houses a collection of the best toys from across many ages. Learn about its history and the significance of the museum to academics, artists and students on a guided tour. With so many toys to see, you'll be reliving your childhood in a wave of nostalgia.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Agri-Horticultural Society, in 1859, transformed plantation property into a massive botanical garden for recreational use. It has become a major element of Singapore throughout the years, to the point where it has been designated as the country's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Orchid Garden is a highlight, as is the ample room for jogging dining or simply relaxing.
Aqaba
DAY 90 - 11 Apr 2023
With a temperature that rarely – if ever – dips below 20 degrees and some of the best diving spots in the world, Aqaba is perfect for the adventurous outdoorsman! Discover the vibrant coral reefs offshore, or for the more experienced divers, go deep below the surface to sunken shipwrecks. Children will love splashing in the sea and learning about marine life at the aquarium, while history-enthusiasts should visit the ancient Ayla Ruins.
Things to do in Aqaba:
Aqaba Marine Park
For those looking to get up close with vibrant marine life, Aqaba Marine Park is the place to be. Choose from 19 different diving sites with beautifully preserved habitats for optimal sea-life spotting, including clownfish, lionfish and even sea turtles!
South Beach
This 12km-long stretch of beaches and bays are home to vibrant coral reefs and some of the best snorkelling spots in Aqaba. The reefs are just metres from shore, making them perfect for divers with less experience, or those just looking to go for a leisurely swim.
Aqaba Aquarium
Part of the Aqaba Marine Science Station, Aqaba Aquarium showcases the variety of marine life found in the surrounding waters. From vibrant parrotfish to fascinating reef sharks, visitors of all ages will enjoy this aquarium.
Ayla Ruins
Built around 650 AD, the ancient Islamic city of Ayla has witnessed many different eras. Rediscovered and excavated in 1989, visitors can now explore the walls left behind and learn more about the long history of this once-inhabited city.
Suez Canal Transit
DAY 92 - 13 Apr 2023
Dating back to Ancient Egypt when the city was used to protect the land from invasion, the Suez Canal offers plenty of history to discover as well as a slower pace of life than the bustling cities nearby. Explore the museums here to learn more about the fascinating timeline of the canal as well as the Pharaoh’s and their pyramids, or if you have a longer stay, venture further afield to witness the Pyramids of Giza themselves.
Things to do in Suez Canal Transit:
The Suez Canal Museum
The Suez Canal museum is brimming to the teeth with all sorts of artefacts from ancient Egypt and other local sites just waiting for you to discover them. Learn all about the history of the Suez Canal and the history of those who it connects to.
Ismailia Museum
Boasting over 4,000 artefacts from Ancient Egypt through to the Greek and Roman era, the Ismailia Museum includes pieces such as an intricate mosaic, statues, scarabs and an open-air gallery in the garden.
Port Said Military Museum
For more information on the Suez Canal as well as the 1956 Suez Crisis and the wars with Israel, the Port Said Military Museum is a must visit. In the garden you’ll find captured US tanks as well as unexploded ordnances.
Pyramids of Giza
By far the oldest of the ancient wonders of the world, the Pyramids of Giza are truly a bucket-list-worthy sight to see. Built 2550 to 2490 BC, the craftsmanship of these structures are a fine example of the feats of Ancient Egypt.
Naples
DAY 95 - 16 Apr 2023
Naples is one of the most important cities in Italy. Its foundation dates back to the 8th century BC, and it once had an important relationship with Athens, due to its commercial power and position on the sea. The city is rich in history and there are numerous places of interest to visit, in particular the archaeological excavations of the nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Things to do in Naples:
Museo Nationale
The opening of the historic National Archaeological Museum of Naples took place in 1816. Built by Ferdinando I of Borbone, at the time king of the Two Sicilies, it boasts the richest collection of works and archaeological finds with regard to Roman history.
Museo d'arte contemporanea
The Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as the Madre Museum, is located inside Palazzo Donnaregina, in the center of Naples. It was established in 2005 with the aim of promoting cultural and artistic development in the territory of Campania.
Palazzo Reale
The construction of the Royal Palace began in 1600 and for a long time was the residence of the Spanish viceroys, before passing to the House of Bourbon and finally to the House of Savoy. The architectural style is a mixture of Baroque and Neoclassical. Today, the palace houses a museum and a library.
Pompeii
The history of Pompeii begins in the 9th century BC, when the area was inhabited by the Opici people - an ancient Latin population. Today the town is famous because of the eruption of Vesuvius, which occurred in 79 AD, which led to its total destruction.
Mount Vesuvius
The profile of Naples would not be the same without Mount Vesuvius that dominates the city skyline. Versuvius is known for the violent eruption of AD 79, which became famous for the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and was witnessed by Pliny the Younger.
Herculaneum
The tremendous eruption of Vesuvius, in 79 AD, not only destroyed Pompeii but also the ancient city of Herculaneum. The archaeological excavations of this city can be visited today and, since 1997, are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
San Gennaro Catacombs
The Catacombs of San Gennaro are the most important Christian monument in Naples. The remains of San Gennaro, the main patron saint of the city, have been held here since the 5th century. The labyrinth of corridors also house Christian frescos from the 2nd century AD, and mosaics from the 5th century AD.
Castel Nuovo
Castel Nuovo is a medieval and Renaissance-era castle. Most commonly known as Maschio Angioino, its construction began in the 13th century at the behest of Charles I of Anjou, after he moved the Italian capital from Palermo to Naples in around 1268.
Piazza del Plebiscito
The Piazza del Plebiscito is located in the historic center of Naples and was of considerable importance after the construction of the Royal Palace. Today Palazzo Salerno, Palazzo della Prefettura, and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola are also located here.
Lisbon
DAY 99 - 20 Apr 2023
The largest and capital city of Portugal, and one of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon is an idyllic cruise holiday destination, offering attractions to suit all interests. From ancient forts to artistic neighbourhoods and the breath-taking Jerónimos Monastery, this port of call has plenty to explore. Families will love to discover the many species at the Oceanarium, while couples will love an escape to the charming town of Sintra to explore the castle.
Things to do in Lisbon:
Alfma District
One of the oldest and most vibrant districts of Lisbon, Alfama is the place to be for artisan eateries, quirky boutiques and Fado bars. It’s best explored on foot or by the tram to experience as many of the attractions and highlights as possible.
Jeronimos Monastery
One of the most visited sites in Lisbon, the Jerónimos Monastery was completed in the seventeenth century. In 1983 UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage Site and it’s certainly a must visit to admire the beautiful architecture both inside and out.
Lisbon Oceanarium
Here visitors will discover over 450 different species of marine life, including sharks, rays, penguins and otters. Cruisers of all ages will love following the route around the central aquarium to learn about the major ecosystems of the ocean.
Torre de Belem
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Torre de Belém was built to protect Lisbon from attackers from the sea. Despite its role, the fort was decorated with lavish carvings and details, which are best viewed from the banks of the Rio Tejo.
Tram 28
Tram 28 is the classic Lisbon mode of transportation – rattling around the narrow streets in a bright yellow tram that dates back to the 1930’s. Hop on and take one of the best tours of Lisbon, passing highlights and attractions along the way.
Sintra
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape, Sintra is a romantic destination to escape to for the day. Featuring enchanting palaces and rolling hills, this town is easily accessible from Lisbon via a regular train service.
St George's Castle
Established in 200 BC, Castelo de Sao Jorge is one of the biggest highlights of Lisbon. Get to know the city’s unique and fascinating history, explore the imposing walls, wander the shady gardens and admire the vast views from the Observation Terrace.
Southampton
DAY 102 - 23 Apr 2023
The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre- or post cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
Customer reviews for Queen Victoria
4.5
Based on 169 reviews
Cabin
4.5
Service
4.5
Excursions
4.5
Dining
4.5
Activities
4.5
Value for money
4.5
Entertainment
4.5
Cunard remain an upmarket cruise line with everything that entails. Good ship with proper dress codes and elegance.
couple
10+ cruisesOceanview
27 Dec 2022
Great cruise. Small thing - the ship was a little tired in places and needs updating in certain areas, but had great food service and selection of food in the lido was excellent.
couple
6-10 cruisesBalcony
22 Dec 2022
Excellent ship and the food and service received was 6 stars!
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.