Black Watch, Cultures of Polynesia, Australia & Asia ex Havana to Southampton
- Departs Havana, Cuba
- 29th Jan 2021
- 88 nights
- Black Watch
-
Prices from
NZ$21,580*
88 Night Cruise sailing from Havana to Southampton onboard Black Watch.
Black Watch is sleek, intimate and harks back to the days when cruise ships were revered for their style and charm. The ultimate home-from-home at sea; Black Watch is spacious with a friendly and familiar feel, and provides guests with a traditional cruise experience rather than gimmicks such as climbing walls and on board bumper cars. This is further enhanced by the ship's attentive staff who strive to offer Fred. Olsen's renowned personal service and remember the important things, such as your name, your favourite tipple and how you like your breakfast. Show less
Having undergone a thorough refurbishment in late 2016, Black Watch features a selection of stylish suites and rooms, restaurants and spacious public rooms that provide up to 804 guests with everything needed for a comfortable, enjoyable and stress-free holiday, while retaining the elegant style of a traditional cruise ship.
Meet Black Watch in Cuba and embark on the adventure of a lifetime to some of the most captivating regions and countries on earth, for chances to discover iconic landmarks and idyllic island scenes; marvel at breathtaking natural wonders and fascinating wildlife; experience diverse cultures; and much more, all on one magical cruise holiday.
After boarding your ship in legendary Havana, you’ll sail to Central America for a visit to historic Colón; a memorable navigation through the locks, dams and lakes of the impressive Panama Canal; and a call at Puerto Caldera, gateway to lush Costa Rican nature reserves and rainforest. All that’s before embarking on an unforgettable transpacific crossing to Australia. En route, you’ll visit a string of spectacular South Pacific islands to marvel at the volcanic landscapes of Nuku Hiva and Fakarava’s beautiful Biosphere Reserve; sample pure bliss among the paradise beaches and mountainous scenery of Tahiti, Raiatea, Bora-Bora and Tonga; and revel in the unspoilt beauty and tranquillity of uninhabited Mystery Island and the hidden Fijian gem of Savusavu. Once in the ‘Land Down Under’, an extended stay in Sydney affords ample time to take in the city’s world-famous attractions: you could climb Harbour Bridge, marvel at the iconic Opera House and even visit beautiful Bondi Beach. Elsewhere, there’s a rare opportunity to explore the cultural Tasmanian city of Burnie; delight in the diverse architecture, attractions and cityscapes of Melbourne and Perth; and follow in the footsteps of Australia’s first European settlers in Albany. Show less
The incredible diversity of Asia is then yours to experience to the full. You can compare the striking contrasts between a collection of stunning destinations, such as the Indonesia islands of Java and Weh – where sensational temples and scenes of jungle interiors, white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters await – and Singapore, a magnificent modern megalopolis of soaring skyscrapers, busy commercial quarters and impressive temples. Spending a day in culture-rich Colombo is the perfect way to prepare for three vibrant Indian cities. From Kochi you could take an overland tour to the Taj Mahal; in Goa, explore the historic centres of Old Goa and the Latin Quarter; while an overnight stay in Mumbai affords time to immerse yourself in city’s renowned the hustle and bustle. Continuing onward to Jordan, Aqaba is the starting point for discovering the ‘Lost City’ of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Don’t miss the chance to uncover the huge tombs and temples of Petra, that were carved into sandstone over 2,000 years ago. Then, after an unforgettable navigation of Egypt’s Suez Canal, hallowed sites await you in Israel too: Haifa is your gateway to Jerusalem, a pilgrimage from Jews, Muslims and Christians, and Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus. En route back to the UK, a triumvirate of sun-splashed Mediterranean destinations – Limassol, Valletta – the historic Maltese capital – and Malaga will bring your holiday to the perfect conclusion.
Highlights of this cruise:
Havana, Cuba
Havana, the capital city, major port, and leading commercial centre of Cuba, is famed for its colonial history and vibrant culture.The city is home to exquisite Spanish colonial architecture, classic American cars, irresistible rhythms of mambo and a confusing jigsaw of grand avenues and cobbled streets.
A stroll around Habana Vieja, Old Havana, quickly reveals the audacious Latin atmosphere within the imposing coastal fortifications and intimate, traffic-free squares. At its centre, the buildings reflect the city’s vivacious architectural mix: the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, the iconic National Capitol Building, the Baroque Catedral de San Cristóbal, and the Plaza Vieja are all worth the effort to uncover.
Papeete, French Polynesia
Papeete, on Tahiti, is the capital of French Polynesia, a group of islands in the South Pacific. Its very name conjures up images of Gauguin paintings, palm trees, golden beaches and blue seas, and this near-perfect Polynesian island does not disappoint.
The bustling city of Papeete is home to the world’s only Pearl Museum, which traces the history and mythology of pearls, and has many examples of black, white and pink pearls on view. The town’s fine buildings include a number of interesting religious buildings: the red spire-topped, 19th century Notre Dame Cathedral plays an important part in Tahitian society.
Beside the port, the busy Place Vai’ete fills with food carts (roulottes) in the evenings, while the large Le Marché de Papeete is a favourite daily market. Le Marché, at the heart of the city, is packed with stalls selling fruit and vegetables, oils and scented soaps, jams and pickles, clothing, hats, bags and shell necklaces. Spread out over two floors, the sumptuous displays of flowers – Tahitian homes are considered incomplete without flowers everywhere – simply have to be seen to be believed.
French Polynesia is comprised of over 100 islands and atolls, with Tahiti possibly being the most famous thanks to its soaring peaks, lush valleys, cascading waterfalls and stunning vistas. The array of natural treasures includes the Faarumai Waterfalls and spring garden of Vaipahi.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia is one of the world's most exciting, must-see modern cities. Home to the famous Harbour Bridge and Opera House – two of the most iconic cityscapes on Earth – the capital of New South Wales has a visual wow factor that most other cities can only dream of.
Defined by the rugged Pacific coastline that surrounds it, Sydney is a timeless, cosmopolitan metropolis that is easy to fall in love with. The imposing Darling Harbour, plus the smaller Circular Quay Port are the hubs of waterside life, with the revered Royal Botanic Garden nearby. For the more adventurous, Sydney Tower’s outdoor platform, the Skywalk, offers 360-degree views of the city and suburbs.
Compared with its Australian counterparts, Sydney is loud and brash. It has glamour and casualness in equal measure: there is a balance between the beach culture found on Bondi Beach and the fine dining and vibrant nightlife found in Kings Cross and Oxford Street.
Museums and memorials abound and include The Australian Museum, which opened in 1857 with the purpose of displaying the natural wealth of the colony, and the modern Museum of Sydney, which details the city's development. The Anzac War Memorial in Hyde Park is a public memorial dedicated to the achievement of Australia's armed forces in World War I.
The neoclassical Greek frontage of the NSW Art Gallery underlines the prominent and gregarious role art has in Sydney society. Major international exhibitions regularly arrive here and there's an outstanding permanent collection of indigenous art. And everything that’s best in contemporary Australian cuisine can be found at Circular Quay and The Rocks.
For those wanting to escape the city and go off the beaten path, the spectacular Blue Mountain or the Australian Bush offer spectacular sights and experiences. Sydney Harbour National Park protects large swathes of bushland, while Botany Bay’s history and connection to Britain is a big draw.
Singapore, Singapore
Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, this dynamic city-state is the perfect cocktail of culture, cruising, arts and architecture. This global financial centre with a tropical climate and multicultural population is passionately working towards its dream of a ‘City in a Garden’.
Getting around Singapore is a fairly rapid affair, thanks to one of the world’s most efficient and widespread public transport systems. Its colonial core centres on the Padang, a cricket field since the 1830s and now flanked by grand buildings such as City Hall, and its multitude of Corinthian columns. The 19th century red-and-gold Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, allegedly houses one of Buddha's teeth.
The concrete that once dominated the city skyline is slowly being replaced by ‘green skyscrapers’, which look more like living ecosystems than office buildings. Visitors stepping out of the centre will find walking trails, treetop bridges, indigenous wildlife and the city's green jewel, the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Singapore Botanic Gardens.
A tantalizing selection of food sold from street markets is dotted around the city. Food is taken very seriously: from cheap street fare to Michelin-starred dining, Singaporean foodies will happily queue for it. Of course, for sheer elegance, nothing beats a Singapore Sling in the Raffles Hotel.
Singapore has always drawn visits from a variety of sea craft. Merchants of every race, colour and faith were quickly drawn to the island, and by 1911, Singapore’s population comprised of 48 races, speaking 54 languages. Malay is now the official language.
Mumbai, India
Once a cluster of seven islands covered with coconut palms, Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is a sprawling, vibrant city on India’s west coast. It is a busy, densely-populated city, home to India’s most prolific film industry, Bollywood, and the largest tropical forest in an urban zone.
Mumbai can prove to be a surprising introduction to India. On its harbour waterfront stands the iconic Gateway of India stone arch; through it is India’s centre for finance and fashion, and a fervent religious crossroads. As such the city’s furious energy – and often heavy air pollution – can make it a totally different experience for visitors.
But once in Mumbai’s heart, some of the most imposing colonial-era architecture on earth is on view, as are its secret bazaars, hidden temples, and India’s top restaurants and intense nightlife.
The cultural mix is extraordinary: religious sites like the Jain Temple and the closely guarded Parsi Towers of Silence all exist happily next to the Victoria Railway Terminus, the Royal Bombay Yacht Club and the Ghandi Memorial Museum. The unique and popular bazaars offer souvenir trinkets, traditional shawls and shoes all ready to be bartered over.
Venturing beyond Mumbai, the elusive and lesser known Elephanta Caves are captivating. Set in attractive surroundings of lush green vegetation, vines and towering trees, Elephanta Island offers a stark contrast from the bustling inner city of Mumbai. The eerie Buddhist and Hindu caves, and their honeycomb of halls, shrines and pillars, are a must-see.
Haifa, Israel
The city of Haifa is said to be one of the prettiest in Israel, and is surrounded by nature sites, churches and mosques, mountains and sea.
The Bahai Gardens here are not to be missed when on your cruise holiday. The site is where members of the Bahai faith have established their shrine – this building is stunning, with a golden dome, marbled walls and nine sides representing the nine major religions in the world. It is surrounded by several other unique buildings, and set amongst some of the most spectacular gardens in the world, which are designed in nine concentric circles and look like waves extending out from the shrine at the centre.
Malaga, Spain
Situated on Andalusia's beautiful Mediterranean coast, Malaga offers everything you would expect from a city on the Costa del Sol: seemingly endless stretches of golden sand beaches, fantastic restaurants serving traditional tapas and friendly bars attract locals and holidaymakers alike. There's much more to the region's captivating capital than busy beach resorts though. Dig a little deeper and a wealth of cultural, historical, artistic and architectural treasures reveal themselves, such as Catedral de Málaga, the statuesque and striking Alcazaba Fortress and Castillo de Gibralfaro. Not-to-be-missed is the Picasso Museum, which exhibits a fantastic collection of masterpieces from arguably Malaga's most famous 'son', Pablo Picasso.
What's more, Malaga is also your gateway to Granada and the glorious Alhambra, where proud 14th century palaces and exotic gardens are Spain's finest expression of Moorish art; as well as the Ronda Valley, where on tour you can explore a charming old town and the picturesque El Tajo gorge.
| Cruise Itinerary |
| Date |
Activity |
Arrive |
Depart |
| 29/01/21 |
Havana, Cuba |
|
Late Night |
| 30/01/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 31/01/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 01/02/21 |
Colon Panama |
EarlyPM |
Late Night |
| 02/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 03/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 04/02/21 |
Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica |
EarlyAM |
Late Night |
| 05/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 06/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 07/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 08/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 09/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 10/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 11/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 12/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 13/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 14/02/21 |
Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 15/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 16/02/21 |
Fakarava, French Polynesia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 17/02/21 |
Papeete, Tahiti |
LateAM |
Late Night |
| 18/02/21 |
Raiatea, French Polynesia |
EarlyAM |
Late Night |
| 19/02/21 |
Bora Bora, French Polynesia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 20/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 21/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 22/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 23/02/21 |
Date Line Crossing |
|
|
| 24/02/21 |
Nuku'alofa, Tonga Islands |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 25/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 26/02/21 |
Savusavu Fiji |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 27/02/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 28/02/21 |
Mystery Island, Vanuatu |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 01/03/21 |
Noumea, New Caledonia |
EarlyAM |
EarlyPM |
| 02/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 03/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 04/03/21 |
Sydney, NSW, Australia |
EarlyPM |
|
| 05/03/21 |
Sydney, NSW, Australia |
|
|
| 06/03/21 |
Sydney, NSW, Australia |
|
LatePM |
| 07/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 08/03/21 |
Burnie, Tasmania, Australia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 09/03/21 |
Melbourne, VIC, Australia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 10/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 11/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 12/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 13/03/21 |
Albany, Western Australia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 14/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 15/03/21 |
Perth (Fremantle), WA Australia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 16/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 17/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 18/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 19/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 20/03/21 |
Surabaya, Indonesia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 21/03/21 |
Semarang, Indonesia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 22/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 23/03/21 |
Singapore, Singapore |
LatePM |
|
| 24/03/21 |
Singapore, Singapore |
|
LatePM |
| 25/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 26/03/21 |
Pulau Weh (Sabang) Indonesia |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 27/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 28/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 29/03/21 |
Colombo Sri Lanka |
EarlyAM |
Late Night |
| 30/03/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 31/03/21 |
Kochi, Japan |
EarlyAM |
Late Night |
| 01/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 02/04/21 |
Mormugao, India |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 03/04/21 |
Mumbai (Bombay), India |
EarlyPM |
|
| 04/04/21 |
Mumbai (Bombay), India |
|
EarlyPM |
| 05/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 06/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 07/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 08/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 09/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 10/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 11/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 12/04/21 |
Aqaba, Jordan |
EarlyAM |
Late Night |
| 13/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 14/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 15/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 16/04/21 |
Haifa, Israel |
EarlyAM |
|
| 17/04/21 |
Haifa, Israel |
|
LatePM |
| 18/04/21 |
Limassol, Cyprus |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 19/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 20/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 21/04/21 |
Valletta, Malta |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 22/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 23/04/21 |
Malaga, Spain |
EarlyAM |
LatePM |
| 24/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 25/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 26/04/21 |
At sea |
- |
- |
| 27/04/21 |
Southampton, England |
EarlyAM |
|
Itinerary may vary by sailing date and itineraries may be changed at the cruise line's discretion. Please check itinerary details at time of booking and before booking other travel services such as airline tickets.
