We're hard at work developing the Field Programs for the Amazon Expedition Enrichment Voyage. Here are some of the Programs that may be offered on the Voyage. This list is preliminary and subject to change.


MANAUS CITY TOUR.

MEEETING OF THE WATERS - Half day or full day with lunch

SURVIVOR! Jungle Trek - An expedition into the jungle to learn Survival Techniques

NIGHT TIME ALLIGAGOR SPOTTING

A NIGHT AT THE OPERA

VISIT TO CHILDREN'S CENTER

IBAMA & FUNAI - Lecture And Visit

DINNER AT TIWA LODGE - with Boi Bumbá Party

FULL DAY JUNGLE LODGE IMMERSION


SANTAREM CITY TOUR.

SANTA LUCIA FOREST

MAICA - Portrait of the Amazon Region

FLORESTA DO TAPAJOS NATURE RESERVE

BELTERRA - Herny Ford's Amazon Dream

WHITE SAND BEACH PARTY - with Entertainment


ASA WRIGHT NATURE CENTRE - Tucked away in the slopes of Trinidad’s Northern Range Mountains lies the Asa Wright Nature Centre, overlooking the steep valley of the Arima River. Orginially a cocoa-coffee-citrus plantation, the center spans 203 acres and is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary. An impressive list of species calls this area home including 97 mammals, 400 birds, 55 reptiles, 25 amphibians, and 617 butterflies. The Centre also boasts over 2,200 species of flowering plants. An experienced naturalist guide will share his knowledge of the flora and fauna protected within the preserve. After exploring the Discovery Trail, enjoy a cool tropical drink on the Centre’s verandah. Keep your eyes open while enjoying that tropical drink – colorful birds, like the brilliant green shining Honeycreepers and the Jacob hummingbirds dash in and out of the rainforest to visit the feeders below the verandah. The Centre is arguably one of the best places for birding in the tropics.

MT. ST. BENEDICT MONASTERY - Founded by Abbot Majuel in 1912, Mount Saint Benedict provided a haven for the Benedictine Monk community who escaped religious persecution in Brazil. The Monastery, set 800 feet above sea level, provides expansive views of the Caroni Plains and is still a haven for Monks and others who seek peace and relaxation. Today, the grounds include religious buildings, a farm, an apiary, a home for the aged, a drug rehabilitation center, a vocational school and a guest house. This tour will take you through the Monastery where Monks still tend to their farming and apiary, still bake bread and make everything from local teas to jelly. After frequenting the grounds, relax and enjoy one of their brewed teas in the tranquil grotto-like atmosphere found in the guesthouse.

THE CROSSING: SANTA CRUZ TO MARACAS BAY HIKE - This adventure begins in the heart of the Santa Cruz valley. From here, hike seven miles through the hills of the Trinidad’s Northern Range, home to a wide array of flora and fauna. Sounds of coo coos, tanagers, manikins and toucans provide a natural symphony. Approach the summit, home of the elusive Bearded Bell Bird. After searching for its perch, begin the decent. A spectacular view of the ocean peers through windows in the foliage. Your reward after this exhilarating hike is a filling ‘Bake and Shark’ lunch set in the beautiful palm-laden Maracas Bay.

CARONI BIRD SANCTUARY - A highlight for many visiting the Caroni Bird Sanctuary will be sighting the Scarlet Ibis, Trinidad’s national bird, as it makes its twilight flight to roost within the national preserve. Thousands of Scarlet Ibis adorn the trees visually transforming the lush green vegetation to brilliant scarlet. After a short 30-minute drive from the ship you will board a 35-foot pirogue which will guide you through the mazelike canals of the swamp. The area is home to a wide variety of wildlife including 186 species of birds. Osprey, herons, white flamingoes, hummingbirds and egrets are frequently spotted in the sanctuary. Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy the fascinatingly diverse fauna seen along the six-mile journey.

THE NORTH COAST HOP & BEACH STOP - Venture along the mountainous and picturesque North Coast Road through sleepy villages while viewing an abundance of flora and fauna. Travel through cocoa estates and taste the source of some of the world's finest chocolate. Then retreat to Maracas Bay for a bit of sea, sun and sand and a sampling of their world-famous Maracas ‘Bake and Shark’.

PORT OF SPAIN CITY TOUR & CULTURE SHOW - Port of Spain has changed immensely since its humble beginnings as a small seaside port. Now regarded as one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Caribbean, Port of Spain is also known for its rich musical history. The steel pan (steel drum) was invented here as well as Calypso music. Internationally popular during the 1950s, Calypso rhythms can be traced back to the late 18th century when African slaves used this as a means of communication. This trip will include visits to the highlights of the area. Drive past Seven Magnificent Mansions which overlooks the glorious Queen's Park Savannah, the city's greatest park. View other architectural and historical monuments including a tour of the Botanic Gardens situated next to the President's House. Here, enjoy a cultural show featuring the Flaming Limbo, Calypso and Steel Pan, Indian Dance and other presentations that provides a wonderful introduction to the Caribbean.

TRINIDAD CULTURAL SHOW - Experience the cultural history of Trinidad in sight and sound during this evening performance. Upon entering the simulated pan-yard setting, enjoy a complimentary drink while listening to the scintillating sounds of the local Steel Orchestra. Hear about the evolution of the steel pan from the days of slavery to the days of the Caribbean’s own Carnival celebrations. Learn about drumology interspersed between toe-tapping Tamboo (drum) bamboo performances. Join the celebration by participating in the flaming limbo performance or enthusiastically cheering your friends on. The evening culminates with true ‘Trini-style’ dancing to the movement of "pan-around-the-neck".

MARACAS BAY SCENIC DRIVE - Maracas Bay is well-known for its pristine white-sand beaches amongst its dramatic rugged coastline. The drive to reach this popular destination is equally picturesque; the scenic drive through the Northern Range Mountains weaves you through the tropical splendor of its rainforest. Your tour begins with an orientation of the capital city, highlighting the historical and cultural landmarks. Stop at the mountainous Lady Young Lookout for a panoramic view of the area before continuing east through the ever-lively town of San Juan and then through the green, tranquil Santa Cruz Valley. With its sprawling farms, verdant bamboo groves and fascinating cocoa plantations, the valley adds a rich visual dimension to the trip. Pass through "The Saddle", a natural archway between two rocks, which leads to the scenic Northern Range and Maracas Bay before returning to the ship.

AN EAST INDIAN EXPERIENCE - Christopher Columbus sailed west in search of the East Indies, discovering that he had underestimated the circumference around the globe by at least 25 percent when he arrived in the Caribbean. In 1498, on his third expedition, Columbus visited the island of Trinidad. Chart a similar course and encounter a fabulous Trini Indian cultural experience. Travel south to savor spiced food, such as roti, phoulori, and curried duck, as only Trini Indians can prepare it. Join in the festivities and participate in Tassa drumming and Chutney singing. Complete your cultural experience as you see the architecture of the Temples and Mosques of the area.

THE RIVER LIME - Trinis take pride in their culinary skills, from the professional chef to the backyard cook. Come judge for yourself on this River Lime (picnic). Rest and relax or hike the many camping trails. Take a dip in a pool or sip a freshly prepared local drink on this River Lime. The picnic will include a variety of curry dishes, from chicken and potato to chataigne with dumplings, to ‘buss up shot’ (roti). Also on the menu is the ever popular Pelau (browned peas and rice with meat).

THE CULTURE COLLAGE - – Travel to the Santa Cruz Valley located within the hills of Trinidad’s Northern Range and experience a typical Trini lunch with a local family. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely walk through the village and along the river banks or perhaps immerse yourself in the cool refreshing water. Travel to the mountain village of Paramin, steeped in its age-old French and Spanish traditions. Also known as the spice village, it provides most of the spices, herbs and food seasonings grown in Trinidad for domestic and export purposes. The evening ends with a village supper complete with Parang (Spanish-influenced music) before returning to the ship.

PITCH LAKE: A WONDER OF THE WORLD - Board a motorcoach and head south, passing through the undulating sugar cane fields of Caroni as well as several rural towns and villages – each with its own history and style. Stop at the Temple in The Sea and hear the story of a humble indentured labourer who defied the colonial powers of the day. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, stretch your legs while strolling through the Gulf City shopping mall. Continue south for a stop at Pepper corner to sample hot sauces and other delicacies. Our main stop is the town of La Brea where Pitch Lake is located. The first European to visit the lake was Sir Walter Raleigh, the 16th-century explorer. Today, Pitch Lake is the best-known deposit source of natural asphalt in the world. It consists of 115 acres of asphalt with a depth of a least 282 feet. Asphalt, being a viscous substance, has formed into a lake or lagoon of this black pitch which is in constant movement. Thus, from time to time, objects such as tree trunks and relics of ancient artifacts are brought to the surface, only to disappear sometime later. If you wish, enjoy a quick dip in the therapeutic sulfur ponds.

CRUSOES'S GETAWAY, A DAY IN TOBAGO – Enjoy a short flight to the serene sister isle of Tobago, widely believed to be the legendary home of Daniel Dafoe’s Robinson Crusoe. Visit Mt Irvine, Plymouth, Mason Hall, and Fort King George, Tobago’s best remaining colonial fortification. These visits provide a great introduction to the area. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy the exotic flavors of Tobago food. Afterwards, board a glass-bottomed boat to sail to Buccoo Reef, Nylon Pool and the Coral Gardens. Snorkel in the crystal-blue waters and discover the diverse array of fish and marine life before returning to Trinidad.


WHALE WATCH & SNORKLE ADVENTURE - Dominica is one of the best areas in the Caribbean for encountering whales and dolphins (Cetaceans). Twenty-two of the twenty-three species known in the Caribbean have been sighted in Dominican waters. These include Sperm Whales, Humpbacks, False Killer Whales, Pilot Whales, Fraser Dolphins, Spotted Dolphins, Atlantic Dolphins and Spinner Dolphins. Sperm Whales, the world’s largest toothed mammals, are present in the general area all year round, and these waters are their breeding and calving ground. Few experiences can rival the sighting of a huge sperm whale, or a family of sperm whales playing on the surface of the water, set against the backdrop of the mountains of Dominica. Walk about two minutes from the ship to the pier where you will board your whale-watching boat. Proceed along the west coast of Dominica in search of whales and dolphins. Your crew will provide information on the whales and dolphins as well as on the island of Dominica. Your boat will be equipped with a hydrophone, which will allow you to hear the sounds of the whales, too! Approximately three-fourths of your trip will be spend whale watching. You will also be taken to a top snorkel site for about one hour of snorkeling.

CANOPY CHALLENGE - Say ‘I can – yes, I can!’ to this new and popular survivor-like challenge course set in the luxuriant forest at the Wacky Rollers Adventure Park in Dominica. At the reception center, you are first provided with your safety gear (harness, helmet and gloves). Our trained guides will then conduct the compulsory safety briefing and demonstration before moving to the starting point. Climb the ladder to your first platform, then travel on the trail, advancing from tree to tree via suspended platforms that are connected by ropes and cables, all integrated into the landscape. You will cross over varied formations of footbridges such as the Indiana Bridge, Monkey Bridge and the Duck Walk Bridge. A highlight of this adventure is a Tarzan jump for the daring. The course ends with a zip line that takes you across Dominica’s longest and largest river - the Layou River - not once but twice. The scenery from this aerial point is stunning and the experience is unforgettable. Throughout the course, our trained guides are available to provide assistance and ensure the proper use of your safety equipment. At the end of this dramatic adventure, a much-deserved complimentary drink is served at our riverside bar, before returning to your ship. Kids can enjoy a similar adrenaline rush at their very own Ti-Ti-Oui Park, adjacent to the Reception Centre, making this an excellent family experience. Kids have to be at least 1.2 m tall and with assistance from a guide are assisted along their separate course. A parent or relative must accompany children (3 children maximum per relative).

DOUBLE-SITE SNORKEL - This tour will take you to two of the top snorkel sites in Dominica’s marine reserve, traveling aboard a 30’ – 39’ single-engine custom boat, or a 60’ catamaran. Your captain and tour guide will be available to provide information about the area. Equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, snorkel vest) will be provided. The snorkel vest must be worn by anyone entering the water, and a liability release form must be signed by all participants or their guardians. There is a changing facility/toilet on board, but it is suggested that you wear your swimsuit under your clothing. It is also suggested that you bring sun block, towel, and camera. Complimentary fresh local juice, rum punch and water will be provided.

TRAFALGA FALLS & CRATER LAKE BOAT RIDE - This tour combines the fascination and splendor of Trafalgar Falls with the tranquility and sheer natural beauty of Freshwater Lake. You will first take a drive through the Roseau Valley with its lush vegetation and pumice cliffs to the popular Trafalgar Falls. Here you can view not one but two marvelous waterfalls, affectionately known as the ‘Mother Falls’ and ‘Father Falls’. You will take a 7-minute hike through the rainforest to view these national treasures. Your journey continues to the village at the highest elevation on the island, Laudat, where you pause for a minute to enjoy the view at the highest driving point on the island. The Freshwater Lake is one of the two lakes formed at the edge of the Morne Micotrin (the 4th tallest mountain on the island) after an eruption many years ago. The Fresh Water Lake is one source that feeds into the ‘Father Fall’ at Trafalgar. On arrival at this site you will be greeted by your guides from the community and given a safety briefing before boarding your 6-person row boat. On the lake you will be amazed by the serenity and will have the rare opportunity to view some of the tallest mountains on the island! You will be taken through coves such as the Lover’s Cove and Secret Cove, where the imagination runs lose and life’s unknown secrets are kept! At the end of your ride on the lake you will receive a complimentary drink before returning to the ship.

WONDERS OF WAITI-KUBULI: EMERALD POOL & RIVER TUBING COMBO - It’s all about water … river tubing and swimming in the vivid green waters of the Emerald Pool. Waiti-kubuli meaning ‘tall is her body’ is the original Carib name for Dominica. Our rugged mountainous landscape has produced an abundance of natural wonders such as rivers, waterfalls, lakes and valleys. On this trip you will begin with a drive to the interior of the island on the old Imperial Road, with the Emerald Pool as your first stop. A 10- minute hike will lead you to the look out point for a picturesque view of this 40ft-waterfall, then you’re just moments away from a quick plunge in this natural wonder! Continue your journey down the stunning Layou Valley Gorge to the point where your river tubing experience begins. Feel the force of nature as you spin and swirl downstream encountering a series of mild rapids while taking in the changing exotic scenery at the same time - if you can. Our experienced and professional guides are only a shout away to ensure your comfort and safety all the way to the end. Back on land again, at the Hillsborough Reception Center, refuel with our award -winning “Kubuli Beer” made with natural spring water or other refreshments and fresh local fruit. On your return to the ship only one word will describe your experience...WOW!

RAINFOREST & WATERFALL 4x4 ADVENTURE - A fun-filled ‘wacky’ adventure awaits you on one of our intricately painted, open-air, four wheel drive vehicles. No windows, no aisles, no glass barriers, no enclosed limited seating - just all-round 360 degree panoramic viewing - the only way to discover the beauty of this nature isle. Your adventure begins with a short tour through the capital and Morne Bruce for a little sightseeing and photography followed by a drive-through visit of the Botanical Gardens. Feel the force of Nature as you wind through the mountains to the renowned Wotten Waven Sulphur Springs to view remnants of the island’s volcanic activity. Hop back on and enjoy an exciting ride further into the islands rainforest, to the Ti Tou Gorge, situated in the village of Laudat. Here you will discover a crevice in the mountain where hot and cold streams intermingle into a natural plunging rock pool. The highlight of this rainforest adventure is a swimming opportunity at the Ti Tou Gorge - one of the favorite filming sites for Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean 2 - Dead Man's Chest. If you are really adventurous, swim between the mountains of the gorge to discover a spectacular view of a crystal clear waterfall - a fitting climax to your rainforest adventure! Complimentary rum punch and fresh fruit will be served before you return refreshed to your ship. Please Note: It is suggested that you bring a swim suit, sun screen, water shoes, towel and camera. This tour is unsuitable for the physically challenged.

RIVER TO OCEAN KAYAKING ADVENTURE - If you’ve done it even once before, try it again on Dominica’s largest and longest river, the Layou River, going downstream. There will be a short kayaking/paddling instruction before getting into the water. Experience the thrill of steering yourself while you plunge down the light rapids in your 2-person sit-on state-of-the-art kayak. Our well-trained guides are on hand to lead you all through the fun-filled adventure. You must pause at times to enjoy the natural scenery while gliding down until you get to the river’s mouth. You have a few minutes to paddle your own way in your own time before your breathtaking entrance to the fishing village of Layou and the warm calm Caribbean Sea. You will see the fishing boats pulled up ashore after the early morning fishing expedition, have an opportunity to swim in the Caribbean sea and the river just a few feet away. A short paddle will take you to your exit point where a sampling of local cuisine prepared for you by the community awaits you, along with a complimentary local rum punch and fresh fruit. Quality kayak seats, paddles and life vests provided. Please Note: Due to unforeseen circumstances this tour may be altered or cancelled for the safety of the passengers, depending on river and sea conditions.

WACKY RIVER TUBING SAFARI - GET SET … TO GET WET! This excursion, in the so-called ‘Land of 365 rivers’ on the Nature Isle of the Caribbean is wet, wonderful and wacky from the word go. A 30-minute drive brings you to the launch site for the safety briefing after which you will be provided with your life vest, modified inner tube, and paddle before getting into the river. With everyone in the water, your guides will set you loose to begin your journey, gently spinning and swirling in the current, taking in the changing exotic scenery at the same time - if you can. You stop briefly to enjoy a popular Dominican pastime – river bathing, where you swim in the crystal clean waters for a few minutes, before continuing down the scenic river until your exit point. Our experienced and professional guides are only a shout away to ensure your comfort and safety all the way to the end. Back on land again, at the Hillsborough Reception Center, refreshments are served including our famous rum punch and fresh fruit before returning to your ship. Please Note: Due to unforeseen circumstances this tour may be altered or cancelled for the safety of the passengers, depending on river and sea conditions.

WHALE & DOLPHIN SAFARI - Dominica is one of the best areas in the Caribbean for encountering whales and dolphins (Cetaceans). Twenty-two of the twenty-three species known in the Caribbean have been sighted in Dominican waters. These include Sperm Whales, Humpbacks, False Killer Whales, Pilot Whales, Fraser Dolphins, Spotted Dolphins, Atlantic Dolphins and Spinner Dolphins. Sperm Whales, the world’s largest toothed mammals, are present in the general area all year round, and these waters are their breeding and calving ground. Few experiences can rival the sighting of a huge sperm whale, or a family of sperm whales playing on the surface of the water, set against the backdrop of the mountains of Dominica. You will be met on the dock by a representative from the Anchorage Whale Watch and Dive Center who will lead you from the ship to the pier where you will board your whale-watching boat, a walk of about two minutes. After a short boat and safety briefing, you will depart for the Anchorage Center for a Sperm Whale talk, utilizing their full-size skeleton and display panels. Then re-board your boat and proceed along the west coast of Dominica in search of whales and dolphins. Your crew will provide information on the whales and dolphins as well as on the island of Dominica. Your boat will be equipped with a hydrophone, which will allow you to hear the sounds of the whales, too!

SINGLE-SITE SNORKEL - This tour will take you “Champagne” or a similar top snorkel site in Dominica, traveling aboard a 30’ – 39’ single-engine custom boat, or a 60’ catamaran. Your captain and tour guide will be available to provide information about the area. Approximately 45 minutes will be spent at the snorkel site. Equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, snorkel vest) will be provided. The snorkel vest must be worn by anyone entering the water, and a liability release form must be signed by all participants or their guardians. There is a changing facility/toilet on board, but it is suggested that you wear your swimsuit under your clothing. It is also suggested that you bring sun block, towel, and camera. Complimentary fresh local juice, rum punch and water will be provided. Beers, sodas and mixed drinks are available for purchase.

CARIB INDIANS - Depart aboard an air-conditioned coach heading up the mountain, past numerous plantations and residential areas, to arrive at the Morne Trois Pitons Reception Center with the World Heritage Site. Your guide leads you into the rainforest on a 10-minute quarter-mile trail which loops around the hillside. Sections of the trail step downwards and across a timber bridge. You reach the crystal clear Emerald Pool filled by a waterfall in which you can enjoy a refreshing swim. Your next stop is at Castle Bruce on the Atlantic Coast where you are afforded the rare opportunity to enjoy a 15-minute discovery walk on the black-sand beach. Your tour continues to the 3,700-acre Carib Indian Territory, home of the remaining Carib Indians. Your first stop is at Kalinago Barana Aute Carib Cultural Village, where there is a museum depicting many aspects of this Kalinago Tribe. Craft shops offer beautiful hand-made items. An entertaining show of song and dance is presented by one of the performing groups. Your next stop is at Ma Joe’s River Pool where you are served with fruit juice or rum punch along with home-made delicacies. The pool is safe for taking a quick dip, or you may prefer to soak your feet for awhile in the shallow mini pools Continue via the Central Forest Reserve into the Layou Valley for a final stop at Hillsborough.

TRAFALGAR FALLS, SULPHUR SPRINGS & CULTURAL PERFORMANCE - Depart aboard an air-conditioned coach traveling approximately five miles up the mountain, via the Roseau Valley, past the hillside village of Trafalgar. On arrival at the Visitor Reception Center, your guide will take you on a 30-minute adventure walk into the rainforest to discover the twin Trafalgar Waterfalls. The viewing platform is a great vantage point for photographs. On return, your guide will serve you with refreshments, exotic tropical fruits and snacks. Your next stop is at the Sulphur Springs of Wotton Wavon located in the Valley of Desolation across Trafalgar Falls. Then pass through Copthall village with its several beautiful homes. Disembark in the Botanical Gardens to visit the aviary and breeding facility housing the Island’s rare parrots, the Jacquot and Sisserou (national bird). Tropical plants are also in abundance. Your next stop is at Morne Bruce to get a panoramic view of the Capital and possibly your ship if it is docked at the Roseau Cruise Berth. From Morne Bruce, transfer to the Garraway Hotel. Here you will be entertained with an exciting cultural presentation during which cocktails are served. You are free to shop around or transfer back to the ship.

INDIAN RIVER BOAT RIDE & BARBEQUE LUNCH - Travel northward along the West Caribbean Coast, where you will see several coastal villages, an ancient rum factory, and many beautiful coves and vistas. On arrival in the town of Portsmouth, you embark into a locally-constructed canoe to enjoy a quiet ride on the Indian River. Awesome mangrove trees line the banks of this river, and lots of wildlife can be found in the swamp lands. The staff at Raja’s Bar welcomes you at the make-shift jetty while other local boys swing across the river, Tarzan-style. Reggae music fills the tropical forest and dynamite rum punch is the day’s special. You must have one! Next is a visit to the Cabrits National Park and Fort Shirley, the restored ruins of an 18th century military fort, which was recently renovated. The panoramic view overlooking Prince Rupert’s Bay and Portsmouth is simply majestic. On the way back, you will stop at Coconut Beach for a dip in the Caribbean Sea and to enjoy a delicious barbeque lunch enhanced by steel band and calypso music. All drinks are complimentary. Relax for a while and then head back to the ship.