World Cruise – Melbourne to New York City

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria – and a global capital of trend-setting cool. Dynamic, sporty and arty, it still maintains an air of old-world grace with spacious tree-lined boulevards and expansive parks. The prosperous lifestyle of its people is both cosmopolitan and sophisticated. The heritage of more than 100 different cultures has contributed to Melbourne’s richly international character – exemplified by its range of 15,000 dining venues offering more than 50 different kinds of cuisine.

Just minutes from Australia’s mainland, with an ambience that feels a million miles away, Kangaroo Island or “KI”, as the locals call it, is home to many incredible wildlife and nature preserves that have earned the island the nickname, where the wild things are. Australia’s third largest island, after Tasmania and Melville Island, it is a veritable playground for all manner of recreation, revered for its exceptional produce, laid-back, rural lifestyle, and ever-visible kangaroo population.

The capital of South Australia, Adelaide straddles the Torrens River on a narrow plain between the Mt. Lofty Ranges and the blue waters of the Gulf of St. Vincent, boasting a profusion of gardens, playgrounds, sporting fields and colorful flower beds. Affectionately known as the “City of Churches,” the combination of verdant parklands and stately buildings imbue this prosperous center with enduring grace and character.

Abeautifully rugged coastline sets the stage for the extraordinary scenery in this charming old whale town and former military post. Be sure to explore the fifty or so colonial buildings that today serve as museums, galleries and restaurants. Take a walk through Torndirrup National Park or along the Middleton Beach boardwalk trail, and keep an eye out for whales off shore.

Nicknamed Freo by the locals, Fremantle is friendly and welcoming, eclectic and eccentric. Located in Western Australia on the Swan River, it is a cosmopolitan city with a hippy-vibe featuring fabulous artisanal food, handcrafted beers, quirky music and a lively music and arts scene. Known for its Victorian architecture, maritime history and one-time role as a British penal colony, it is also a gateway to Perth, home to enchanting parks, beaches and a Mediterranean-like climate.

Nicknamed Freo by the locals, Fremantle is friendly and welcoming, eclectic and eccentric. Located in Western Australia on the Swan River, it is a cosmopolitan city with a hippy-vibe featuring fabulous artisanal food, handcrafted beers, quirky music and a lively music and arts scene. Known for its Victorian architecture, maritime history and one-time role as a British penal colony, it is also a gateway to Perth, home to enchanting parks, beaches and a Mediterranean-like climate.

Geraldton is a coastal city in the Mid West region of the Australian state of Western Australia, 424 kilometres north of the state capital, Perth.

Exmouth, the North West Capes only settlement, will come into view as your Crystal ship rounds the northern tip of this arid North West Cape and enters the Exmouth Gulf. During World War II, Exmouth was a refueling stop for submarines, then later an air force base. In 1967 it became a U.S. Navy communications base and today, the Harold E. Holt Naval Communications Base services both Australian and American vessels in the Indian and Western Pacific Oceans. Although military legend has left an indelible impression, Exmouth is becoming better known as a tourist base for visits to the Cape Range National Park and Ningaloo Marine Park. These two stunning parks are adjacent land- and sea-conservation areas on the western edge of the cape. However you choose to spend your time in Exmouth, your visit to Australias North West Cape will be one to remember.

With its world-famous pearl and diamond industry, the northwestern region of Kimberley is quite literally a jewel of Australia. Broome boasts a proud, independent-minded heritage and breathtaking scenery, highlighted by turquoise waters and untamed bushland. You’ll find an interesting mix of people here including Aboriginal locals, well-turned-out jewelers and free-spirited artists who sell their works and share their stories.

Bali is so beautiful that the natives believe heaven will be just like home, and touring this island paradise, it’s easy to see why. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.

Bali is so beautiful that the natives believe heaven will be just like home, and touring this island paradise, it’s easy to see why. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.

Australia’s northernmost city lies between the sun-bleached Outback and the Arafura Sea on Australia’s “Top End,” as tropical northern Australia is familiarly called. Chic yet casual, the Northern Territory capital has grown into a modern, mellow mini-metropolis, with a comfortable tropical climate and some of Australia’s most fascinating natural highlights – the abundant wildlife and many waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, and beautiful Adelaide River and its famed jumping crocodiles.

Welcome to Cairns [cans], where the weather and hospitality are warm. Tropical Cairns is Queenland’s most northerly city, and is framed by two features of such pristine beauty and incomparable value that they have been listed by the World Heritage Society. Located at the point where the Great Dividing Range and Great Barrier Reef curve gently to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and grazing farmlands fed by freshwater streams. Above all, two of the most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. Cairns, the colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, is alive with life and charm. At hand and beckoning for your discovery are elegant boutiques, markets, art galleries and museums.

Welcome to Cairns [cans], where the weather and hospitality are warm. Tropical Cairns is Queenland’s most northerly city, and is framed by two features of such pristine beauty and incomparable value that they have been listed by the World Heritage Society. Located at the point where the Great Dividing Range and Great Barrier Reef curve gently to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and grazing farmlands fed by freshwater streams. Above all, two of the most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. Cairns, the colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, is alive with life and charm. At hand and beckoning for your discovery are elegant boutiques, markets, art galleries and museums.

Bordering the Whitsunday Passage where famed British explorer James Cook sailed in 1770, today this thriving resort town is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday isles. A relaxed, tropical vibe fills its palm-fringed lagoon, beachfront parks, and assorted shops, restaurants and cafés. Situated nearby is Conway National Park, home to a lush, tropical rainforest and pristine waterfalls.

Nestled between the Gold Coast to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north, laid-back Brisbane makes the most of its magnificent beaches, offering an ideal blend of Aussie ease and urban energy. Wander the lush Botanic Gardens, shop the Queen Street Mall, or enjoy the countless cafés along the banks of the Brisbane River.

Sydney is an energetic and exciting metropolis where nightlife, shopping and fine restaurants compare favorably with the finest the world has to offer. Despite its modern advances, Sydney has lovingly cherished its heritage, for this was the birthplace of the Australian nation, defined by the billowing profile of the Opera House and the dramatic arch of the Harbour Bridge.

Hugging the hillsides around Port Nicholson, a horseshoe-shaped bay that is one of the world’s finest, Wellington reminds many visitors of San Francisco. In cultural offerings as well as landscape – Wellington boasts the National Art Gallery and the Dominion Museum, as well as the Government Building, one of the world’s largest wooden structures.

Gisborne is a city in northeastern New Zealand and the largest settlement in the Gisborne District (or Gisborne Region).

The spectacular Bay of Plenty on New Zealand’s North Island is home to the resort town of Tauranga. Known for its fine restaurants, boutiques and galleries, the city is also a hot spot for water sports and a gateway to nearby attractions, such as the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. At the southern end of Tauranga’s harbor lies the relaxed beach town of Mount Maunganui, named after its distinctive peak, Mauao, which towers 750 feet above the town’s white-sand surf.

Situated astride a narrow, jade-green isthmus between the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau, is Auckland. This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges, sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities, and, not to be forgotten, plenty of sheep and rolling farmland.

Situated astride a narrow, jade-green isthmus between the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau, is Auckland. This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges, sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities, and, not to be forgotten, plenty of sheep and rolling farmland.

Trace the history of New Zealand on the gorgeous island of Waitangi. Along with its vibrant past, find spectacular coastlines, abundant forests, and a world of natural wonders.

Suva is the capital of the South Pacific island nation of Fiji. It’s a city of broad avenues, lush parks and grand British colonial buildings, such as the Suva City Library. Suva’s colorful, lively Municipal Market offers a range of local fruit and vegetables. Fiji Museum, set within the Victorian-era Thurston Gardens, contains examples of traditional canoes, war clubs and tattooing tools.

Cradled along the northern shore of Upolu, picturesque Apia’s thatched-roof fales blend into the emerald-hued countryside. Jagged mountains rise above deserted beaches where trade winds sigh on coconut palms. Western Samoa’s friendly, carefree islanders will welcome you to their bountiful homeland and proudly show you the former home of their adopted son, Robert Louis Stevenson.

Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa, a verdant chain of seven South Pacific isles covered with ferns, breadfruit and pananus trees.

The highest of French Polynesia’s Leeward Islands, Raiatea is a jewel of the sea, with imposing Mount Temehani towering 3,300 feet above a clear emerald-colored lagoon. The island is also a historian’s and archeologist’s treasure, referred to as “Havaii,” or “land of the ancestors” in primitive society – a source of history, religion and genealogies for the Society Islands. Discover ancient, carved marae or venture inland for panoramic views

Escape into the marvels of this island paradise. Bora Bora has been called the most beautiful island in the world with its tranquil lagoons, sugar-white beaches and exotic flora and fauna.

Experience why ancient Polynesians chose Mo’orea as their island of pleasure. This exquisite island is home to groves of pineapples, vanilla, coffee, and pristine beaches. Off into the distance, marvel at the lush mountain peaks surrounded by crystalline waters.

Awaken your senses in the vibrantly alive capital of French Polynesia. Stroll along the wide waterfront-boulevard and marvel and the gorgeous waters and perfect beaches. Tahitian locals and shopkeepers welcome you as you explore the carefree spirit of their island.

Awaken your senses in the vibrantly alive capital of French Polynesia. Stroll along the wide waterfront-boulevard and marvel and the gorgeous waters and perfect beaches. Tahitian locals and shopkeepers welcome you as you explore the carefree spirit of their island.

Huahine is an island located among the Society Islands, in French Polynesia, an overseas territory of France in the Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Leeward Islands group.

The second largest atoll in the world, beautiful Rangiroa is a renowned dive destination with turquoise waters and a fascinating world of colorful fish who fearlessly swim next to their human visitors. On land, working pearl farms, quiet villages and secluded resorts entice guests to become a part of a culture that values neighborly friendliness and relaxation.

At only 37 miles long and 13 miles wide, the atoll of Fakarava has little land to its name, but the island boasts an expansive and deep lagoon accessed by the widest pass in all of French Polynesia. The second pass, at the lagoon’s southern end, is reputed to be the most lovely in the Tuamotu group of isles, with the largest concentration of gray reef sharks in the world. Do any amount of snorkeling, diving or simple sightseeing and you will understand why Fakarava is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Pitcairn Island is inhabited by the descendants of Fletcher Christian, his band of British sailors and their Tahitian wives who mutinied on the Bounty in 1789. After arriving at this unknown “safe” island, the mutineers burned the Bounty so that no one could escape to tell of their whereabouts. Their isolation was so complete, that their closest neighbor was the island of Mangareva, some 300 miles away. Ever since it was settled, this hideaway has remained unaffected by the outside world. Handicrafts are a mainstay of the economy, as woodworking or weaving are common occupations for most families. The island prides itself on its limited-issue stamps, which are much sought after by collectors. Crystal Symphony will lie off Bounty Bay and the descendants of Fletcher Christian and his crew will come out to the ship with their carvings, weavings and other local craft items. No organized shore excursions are planned on Pitcairn Island, as guests will not proceed ashore.

Positioned in the South Pacific Ocean 416 miles west of San Antonio, Chile, Robinson Crusoe Island has a storied history, quite literally. Sailor Alexander Selkirk was marooned here from 1704 to 1709, living in solitude with only a musket, gunpowder, tools and other basic items to keep him alive and well. His story inspired Daniel Dafoe to write <em>Robinson Crusoe </em>in 1719. In 1966, the Chilean government changed the island’s name, formerly Más Tierra (“Closer to Land”), to Robinson Crusoe Island. A story of your own unfolds during your visit, inspired not only by the island’s novelistic associations but also its superb natural beauty and astounding variety of wildlife. Declared a National Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island has 61 times more native plant species than the Galapagos and 13 times more birds. Scuba diving in Chile’s clearest waters with visibility of more than 65 feet offers a striking look at unique marine life. On land, you might spy the Juan Fernández hummingbird, the rare, cinnamon-orange bird found only on this legendary isle.

Valparaíso climbs a crescent of 45 hills creating a maze of alleys, winding streets, connecting stairs and funicular railways. Chile’s main seaport, and accompanying business center, lies in a narrow belt of flatland at the foot of hills. Explore its rich culture and history to understand how ingenuity has transformed this abrupt stretch of coastline into one of the world’s most picturesque and famous port cities.

At the head of the Pacific inlet known as Reloncavi Sound, Puerto Montt is the gateway to the Bavarian-flavored Chilean Lake District, a region graced with some of the world’s most inspiring scenery. Virgin forests, picturesque towns, snow-mantled mountains and translucent lakes adorn this idyllic setting. Visit a wonderland of scenic splendor, including the towering volcano of Mount Osorno, the tranquil Lake Llanquihue, the rushing rapids of Petrohue and the serenity of Lake Todos los Santos.

Visitors to bustling, trendy Castro, capital of Chile’s Chiloé Province, are treated to a kaleidoscope of images from the colorful “palafito” stilt houses of Gamboa to the stunning yellow Church of San Francisco, one of an astounding 16 local churches to be named UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore this scenic island, including Chiloé and Tantauco National Parks, by foot, bicycle or kayak, and enjoy a unique cuisine based on indigenous flavors of Chono culture, potatoes and shellfish.

There are few places left on earth as remote and untouched as Chacabuco, situated along the coast of Chile where the Andes Mountains meet the Pacific and miles from civilization. With no town center to speak of, the main attraction of this port is simply the pristine beauty of nature. Here, the northern Patagonian ice sheets plunge into the sea, creating ripples of neon blue brilliance, while in the distance, dramatic cliffs and waterfalls pierce the foggy mist.

San Rafael Lake is an arc-shaped coastal lake located in the Aysén del General Carlos Ibáñez del Campo Region of Chile, within the national park that bears its name. To the north the lagoon is connected to the Moraleda Channel, to the south lies the Ofqui Isthmus.

Chile’s southernmost city of Punta Arenas (Sandy Point) is the only city situated on the Strait of Magellan, a 300-mile waterway which cuts a swath between the mainland and the island of Tierra del Fuego. It is also the bustling center of one of the world’s largest sheep farming areas, with major exports of wool and mutton. A wealth of sightseeing options includes private air charters over Antarctica, museums bringing yesteryear alive, and explorations deep into Patagonia’s frontier regions.

Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost town, lies on the triangular-shaped islandof Tierra del Fuego. While Ferdinand Magellan was exploring the straits between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in 1520, he was amazed by the smoke and fires which seemed to appear at every turn. These fires, which were kept continuously alight by the Yaghan and Ona Indians, became the inspiration for the name “Tierra del Fuego,” Land of Fire.

Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost town, lies on the triangular-shaped islandof Tierra del Fuego. While Ferdinand Magellan was exploring the straits between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in 1520, he was amazed by the smoke and fires which seemed to appear at every turn. These fires, which were kept continuously alight by the Yaghan and Ona Indians, became the inspiration for the name “Tierra del Fuego,” Land of Fire.

The Falkland Islands are situated some 350 miles east of Tierra del Fuego, 1,000 miles north of Antarctica and, as the locals claim, a mere 8,000 miles from Britain. Port Stanley is home to the majority of the island’s residents -1,990 out of a total population of 2,490. These 700 islands have long been of historical importance to scientists and seamen alike. Prior to the construction of the Panama Canal, they offered safe anchorage and provisions for sailing vessels as they headed around Cape Horn. Today, maritime interests center mostly on the British Royal Navy, fishing fleets from a variety of nations and scientific expeditions to Antarctica. In 1982, world attention was riveted on these islands when Argentine and British forces fought fiercely for the right to call them their own. A number of vessels, numerous aircraft, thousands of troops and many local residents were involved in the conflict. After heavy combat, the will of Britain, supported by the island people, prevailed and the Falkland Islands remain British to this day.

Argentina’s finest wool originates from the Patagonian city of Puerto Madryn, where pioneers from Scotland and England once settled on small farms and sheep ranches. Thecity lies on the shores of the Golfo Nuevo, along the southern coast of Argentina, and although not particularly blessed with buildings of great architectural significance or beautiful scenery, it is nonetheless recognized for its wonderful opportunities to view such wildlife as sea elephants, sea lions, penguins and birds.

Argentina’s finest wool originates from the Patagonian city of Puerto Madryn, where pioneers from Scotland and England once settled on small farms and sheep ranches. Thecity lies on the shores of the Golfo Nuevo, along the southern coast of Argentina, and although not particularly blessed with buildings of great architectural significance or beautiful scenery, it is nonetheless recognized for its wonderful opportunities to view such wildlife as sea elephants, sea lions, penguins and birds.

An upscale playground for the rich and glamorous, Punta del Este is the South American vacation spot for anyone who’s anyone. Exclusive luxury casinos, hotels, restaurants and nightclubs lure many visitors, but the resort city also offers galleries, a popular handicraft market, colonial architecture, and the historic lighthouse for those looking for simpler pleasures. Sun worshipers enjoy over thirty miles of beaches stretched along the peninsula.

Cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, whose name means city of “favorable winds,” is the capital of Argentina. With broad, well planned avenues, charming sidewalk cafés, carefully tended parks, elaborate monuments, noble statues and splendid rococo buildings, it exudes an air of sophisticated elegance. Until the 1880s, Buenos Aires was a mere village. However, it has now prospered into one of Latin America’s most sophisticated centers, with a population of over 11 million. Buenos Aires has also frequently been dubbed the “Paris of the Southern Hemisphere,” due to its superb restaurants, art galleries, museums and European-influenced architecture

Cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, whose name means city of “favorable winds,” is the capital of Argentina. With broad, well planned avenues, charming sidewalk cafés, carefully tended parks, elaborate monuments, noble statues and splendid rococo buildings, it exudes an air of sophisticated elegance. Until the 1880s, Buenos Aires was a mere village. However, it has now prospered into one of Latin America’s most sophisticated centers, with a population of over 11 million. Buenos Aires has also frequently been dubbed the “Paris of the Southern Hemisphere,” due to its superb restaurants, art galleries, museums and European-influenced architecture

Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay, South America’s second-smallest country. Beyond urban limits, 90% of Uruguay’s land is devoted to sheep and cattle grazing, as Montevideo is this nation’s largest city. Legend tells us that its name originated from the words monte vide eu meaning “I see a mountain,” exclaimed by an eager lookout when Magellan’s fleet first arrived in 1520. Set in a picturesque location along the River Plate’s shores, Montevideo evokes all the flavor of Spain with the massive masonry, hidden patios and palm-shaded plazas that are so reminiscent of that country. Attractions abound. Stroll wide boulevards and leafy parks, view imposing statuary or experience the thrill of an estancia visit.

Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay, South America’s second-smallest country. Beyond urban limits, 90% of Uruguay’s land is devoted to sheep and cattle grazing, as Montevideo is this nation’s largest city. Legend tells us that its name originated from the words monte vide eu meaning “I see a mountain,” exclaimed by an eager lookout when Magellan’s fleet first arrived in 1520. Set in a picturesque location along the River Plate’s shores, Montevideo evokes all the flavor of Spain with the massive masonry, hidden patios and palm-shaded plazas that are so reminiscent of that country. Attractions abound. Stroll wide boulevards and leafy parks, view imposing statuary or experience the thrill of an estancia visit.

Attempts have been made to wrangle the wild islands of Ilhabela (Portuguese for “Beautiful Island”) into some semblance of domesticity by establishing coffee plantations, but the island has pushed back, insisting it be appreciated for its dense jungle, volcanic peaks, gorgeous beaches and nearly 400 waterfalls. Divers, hikers, and anyone with a yen for an off-the-beaten-path experience take ferry trips to the isle to visit remote beaches. 85% of the land is set aside as UNESCO-protected.

Apedestrian-friendly historic center boasting beautifully preserved colonial architecture, cobbled lanes, and horse-drawn carts is among the many charms of Paraty, situated on Brazils Costa Verde. Surrounded by a backdrop of steep, jungle-clad mountains and a bay sprinkled with myriad islands, Paraty is tentatively listed for UNESCO World Heritage recognition. The towns many attractions include an 18th-century church built in the baroque style and well worth a look.

Vibrant Rio lies cradled in the outstretched arms of the Christ the Redeemer Statue, which stands atop Corcovado Mountain. At the feet of this magnificent landmark lies one of the world’s most magnificent bays. Golden beaches with such alluring names as Copacabana and Ipanema stretch as far as the eye can see. There are close to two dozen such bays, which serve as a playground for some of the world’s most beautiful people. All along this waterfront, which swirls with mosaic art, are five-star hotels, elegant shops, popular restaurants and a lifestyle to match. Winding its way along this magnificent mile or so is a constant parade of handsome Cariocas, as the local people are known.

Vibrant Rio lies cradled in the outstretched arms of the Christ the Redeemer Statue, which stands atop Corcovado Mountain. At the feet of this magnificent landmark lies one of the world’s most magnificent bays. Golden beaches with such alluring names as Copacabana and Ipanema stretch as far as the eye can see. There are close to two dozen such bays, which serve as a playground for some of the world’s most beautiful people. All along this waterfront, which swirls with mosaic art, are five-star hotels, elegant shops, popular restaurants and a lifestyle to match. Winding its way along this magnificent mile or so is a constant parade of handsome Cariocas, as the local people are known.

Home to more than 20 magnificent beaches, this charming fishing village invites you to come drink up the sun, explore the lush landscape, shop world-class boutiques, and snap a photograph with Bridget Bardot. Not the real one, of course. The French superstar put Buzios on the map when she visited the town at the height of her fame, and now locals and travelers alike come to sit on the statue’s lap, situated on the Orla Bardot.

Salvador da Bahia, Bahia for short, is known for music, as it is here that the influences of Africa, with its drum-centered rhythms, have found an enthusiastic following. As for the architecture, it is not to be dismissed; the city was the seat of the country’s first Catholic Bishop, giving the city’s neighborhoods a historic air. Many monuments in the Pelourinho (the heart of town), have earned the district a place on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.

Maceió is the capital city of the state of Alagoas, on the east coast of Brazil. Its historic center is home to pastel-colored colonial houses, a 19th-century cathedral and the Théo Brandão Museum of Anthropology and Folklore, located in a renovated seafront mansion. Protected by an offshore reef, the coast is lined with white-sand beaches. Ponta Verde beach has a palm-lined promenade, beach kiosks and water sports.

Named for the great coral reef that lies off its shorts, Recife has been dubbed the “Venice of Brazil” by visitors and locals alike.

First settled by Jesuits in 1661, Santarem quickly became a focus of American interest during the rubber boom of the early twentieth century. Today, Santarem remains one of Brazil’s most important trading centers, and is imbued with the energy of a growing city. Be sure to view the “Wedding of the Waters,— the unique merging of the Tapajos clear water with the Amazon’s muddy water.

The “mouth of the Valeria River, the colorful Caboclo village contains a few wooden houses and an abundance of local wildlife, including monkeys, birds and several varieties of flora. As Crystal remains anchored off-shore, canoes bearing the local inhabitants will glide through the river’s waters, providing a fascinating display of the colorful culture of the Amazon region.

The capital of the State of Amazonas, the belle époque splendor of Manaus is still evident in the graceful mansions and the Teatro Amazonas opera house. This city, resting on the Rio Negro, was created by the rubber boom of the mid-19th-century, when steam navigation opened up the Amazon to entrepreneurs and the social elite. Today, stroll down the Parisian-styled boulevards and Italian piazzas, or watch the fisherman at Municipal Market unload their catch of the day on the river’s edge.

The capital of the State of Amazonas, the belle époque splendor of Manaus is still evident in the graceful mansions and the Teatro Amazonas opera house. This city, resting on the Rio Negro, was created by the rubber boom of the mid-19th-century, when steam navigation opened up the Amazon to entrepreneurs and the social elite. Today, stroll down the Parisian-styled boulevards and Italian piazzas, or watch the fisherman at Municipal Market unload their catch of the day on the river’s edge.

This small village located on Tupinambarana Island is situated in the largest river archipelago of the mid-Amazon. This two-century old village is rich in Indian culture, as celebrated with an annual “Boi Bumba” festival, an event that has been taking place in the Parintins for over 80 years – a ritual of magic, mystery, passion and faith. Enjoy the exotic appeal of the Amazon via this fascinating area.

Situated on a beautiful bay, this beach resort on the Amazon River is flanked by two hills, one of which resembles the shape of a church altar, which gives the place its name. Hike through thick forest up the other cone-shaped hill for a spectacular view of the meeting of the Amazon and Tapajós rivers. Alter do Chão is home to the Center for the Preservation of Indian Art, a spectacular collection of Amazon Indian artifacts.

Devil’s Island (Ile du Diable) is one of the three infamous penal colonies of the Iles du Salut archipelago (Islands of Salvation). The penitentiary was first opened by Emperor Napoleon III’s government in 1852, and became one of the most infamous prisons in history before closing in 1946. Very few convicts ever managed to escape the island. One prisoner who became world famous was Henri Charriére, immortalized in the movie Papillon, for supposedly being the only convict ever to have escaped.

Barbados is sun-drenched beaches, clear blue-green waters and cool trade winds. Its capital is a UNESCO treasure and inland you’ll see lovingly preserved plantation houses, lush sugar cane fields and fragrant gardens. Reminders of former British rule abound, from cricket fields to Lord Nelson’s statue and the original Trafalgar Square. Don’t miss Bridgetown’s bustling Careenage and the shops on Broad Street, which offer deals on luxury imports from Britain.

Roseau is the capital of the Caribbean island nation of Dominica. It’s on the southwest coast and known for its 18th-century Creole architecture. Its cobblestone Old Market, formerly a slave auction site, sells crafts and fruit. It’s next to the Dominica Museum, with exhibits on the country’s natural and cultural history. The Dominica Botanic Gardens showcase tropical flora and native Sisserou parrots.

British influences abound in Basse-Terre, the capital of St. Kitts. Here you’ll find the domed Treasury Building, the Circus, which was modeled after Piccadilly in London, and the St. George’s Anglican Church. Explore the traditional white-sand beaches or admire breathtaking views of verdant mountains.

Rich in history, La Fortaleza is the oldest governor’s mansion in the western hemisphere; be sure to see the mahogany clock which stopped in time when the last Spanish governor of Puerto Rico struck it with his sword on his way out, heralding the last moment of Spanish rule in the New World.

Samaná (Santa Bárbara de Samaná) is a town on the Samaná Peninsula, in the Dominican Republic. It overlooks Samaná Bay, which plays host to thousands of humpback whales during winter’s mating season. Nearby, the Whale Museum’s prime attraction is a huge whale skeleton. The town’s waterfront promenade, the Malecón, has restaurants and bars. In the bay, Cayo Levantado is a tiny island known for its palm-lined beaches

Dive into the waters with one of the largest networks of coral reef in the world. Turks & Caicos has plenty of on-shore activities and places to relax, but the water is where you want to be to get enjoy some of the best diving and snorkeling around.

Originally a fort built by the U.S. Army in 1838, during the Second Seminole War, Ft. Lauderdale has little left of its warlike past. Instead the city welcomes visitors with broad beaches and an easy pace of life, plus convenient air and water connections that make the city a perfect place to begin or end a cruise.

HMD Bermuda was the principal base of the Royal Navy in the Western Atlantic between American independence and the Cold War. The Imperial fortress colony of Bermuda had occupied a useful position astride the homeward leg taken by many European vessels from the New World since before its settlement by England in 1609.

HMD Bermuda was the principal base of the Royal Navy in the Western Atlantic between American independence and the Cold War. The Imperial fortress colony of Bermuda had occupied a useful position astride the homeward leg taken by many European vessels from the New World since before its settlement by England in 1609.

New York City. Global nexus of art and architecture, fashion and finance, cuisine and culture. Each of its five boroughs has a distinct personality, with family-friendly Brooklyn renowned for its trend-setting artisan shops, hipster vibe, museums and micro-breweries. The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is located in the borough’s Red Hook area – an up-and-coming hotspot with a recent influx of restaurants, retailers and art houses – putting guests within easy rich of the city’s legendary attractions.