Info about Cunard excursion programs before booking

[Cats2010]

Next year, QM2 on her world cruise, will also be throwing anchor in Goa, Chennai/Madras and Kochi of India. On a previous cruise we did excursions to Northern India, which have impressed me so much that I would not dare to do them again, also with some alterations to it.

 

My question is whether it is possible to know more about the excursions Cunard are planning for India. Who knows?

 

Thank you very much for any info that could help to make a decision.

[Host Hattie]

The bottom of the India page on the Cunard website has links to individual ports with typical excursions, there is nothing showing for Goa yet.

 

https://www.cunard.co.uk/destinations/far-east-and-asia-cruises/india/

[Cats2010]

Thanks for your fast reply, Host Hattie. Unfortunately, I do not have access to the UK website of Cunard, probably since I am on continental Europe.

 

I have now written to the UK offices and hope to receive a reply, but most probably they will direct me to a TA of continental Europe.

 

I also intend to write to Cunard in Hamburg and see what happens, but maybe someone from this forum can help as well?

 

;)

[bluemarble]

Here are the details from the link Host Hattie provided (from the US site, but I think it's the same). I'll do each of your three ports in separate posts since the listings are quite long.

 

Do keep in mind these are lists of possible shore excursions for each port. They may not all actually be offered on your particular voyage.

 

====================

 

Goa (from Mormugao) Excursions

 

Please note: The shore excursions listed are typical for this port. The full programme of shore excursions available for your cruise will be displayed on Cruise Personaliser at least 12 weeks prior to departure.

 

Information on our exciting range of shore excursions is on its way ... please come back and check again soon.

[bluemarble]

Chennai Excursions

 

Please note: The shore excursions listed are typical for this port. The full programme of shore excursions available for your cruise will be displayed on Cruise Personaliser at least 12 weeks prior to departure.

 

Radisson Blu Resort

 

Enjoy some time to relax at the Radisson Blu Resort, Temple Bay.

 

The Radisson Blu Resort, Temple Bay is located off of the east coast road in Mahabalipuram, a two hour drive from Chennai. It’s the perfect place for those who just want to unwind. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome refreshment before settling down on a sunchair for some leisure time. During your stay, you can relax and sunbathe around the hotel pool and perhaps take a refreshing dip, or simply explore the hotel grounds. A delicious local style buffet luncheon is included.

 

BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS

For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

 

LIABILITY

Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

 

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

 

This excursion will operate by coach.Places are limited and this tour will sell out. The drive to Mahabalipuram is around two hours each way, with a comfort stop en route. The time spent at the resort is around three hours, which includes time for luncheon. A welcome refreshment is included, however additional refreshments can be purchased and are payable in local currency. Although the hotel is located on the beachfront, a walk of approximately five minutes along a pathway provides access onto the beach itself. Guests are strongly advised to swim only in the hotel pool as there is a risk of strong undercurrents in the sea. The use of the hotel pool and buffet luncheon are included, there may be charges for other services within the hotel and these are payable on the day in local currency. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

 

Tour code - MAA_007

Features - Activity medium, Meal included, Refreshments included

Duration - 7 HOURS

 

Mahabalipuram - Town of Temples

 

Visit the town of Mahabalipuram, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site for its magnificent group of monuments.

 

The coastal town of Mahabalipuram is dwarfed by the magnificence of its ancient monoliths and carvings, and the Shore Temple which has stood by the sea for 12 centuries. Situated a two hour drive away from Chennai, the town owes its incredible structural history to the period of Pallava Kings, who ruled this part of South India many centuries ago.

 

Marvel at The Five Rathas, monolithic temples that were sculptured out of the rock in the mid 7th century and that are part of an amphitheatre of art. The sculpture of the magnificent elephant and sacred bull are well worth seeing.

 

Visit The Shore Temple, one of India’s oldest temples that sits in a prominent coastal position overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Dating back to the 8th century AD, it provides an insight into the first phase of Dravidian style construction.

 

Krishna’s Butterball makes for an interesting stop. A natural rock boulder that rests precariously at an angle of 45 degrees on a smooth slope. The area of the rock is said to have a calming effect on the senses and has become quite an attraction over the years.

 

Arjuna's Penance is believed to be the world’s largest bas-relief, sculpted on the face of 2 enormous rocks. It shows realistic, life-size figures of animals, humans and celestial beings, and tells the mythical story of the River Ganges rising from its source in the Himalayas.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to Mahabalipuram is around two hours each way with a comfort stop en route. It is advisable to eat a hearty breakfast as only light refreshments will be available during the tour. This tour involves around 20-40 minutes of moderate walking at each stop, which is over varying terrain including rough and uneven ground and steps. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

 

Tour code - MAA_003

Features - Activity medium, Refreshments included

Duration - 6½ HOURS

 

Discover Kanchipuram

 

Kanchipuram is one of the 7 most sacred places of pilgrimage for Hindus and is a must see for any visitor to Chennai.

 

A two hour drive away from Chennai is Kanchipuram, often referred to as the ‘Golden City’ and was also once known as the ‘City of a Thousand Temples’. Today there are just over 100 shrines within the surrounds of Kanchipuram and the most important being those where the practice of worship remains active.

 

View the Kailasanatha Temple, which is one of the oldest in Kanchipuram and famous for its artistic limestone art and sculpture. It was constructed in 685 AD by Pallava King Rajashimha and completed around 705 AD. You’ll also view the 10 storied and intricately sculptured Goporum of the 16th century, the Ekambareswara Temple.

 

Kanchipuram is also renowned for its traditional art of silk weaving. A stop will be made at a local weaving centre for you to enjoy a demonstration of weaving a hand loomed silk sari. You may even wish to make a purchase as a souvenir of your visit.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.It is advisable to consume a hearty breakfast in the morning as only light refreshments will be available during the tour. The journey to Kanchipuram is around two hours each way with a comfort stop en route. This tour involves around 30-45 minutes of moderate walking at each stop, which is over varying terrain including some rough and uneven ground and steps. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

 

Tour code - MAA_002

Features -Activity medium, Refreshments included

Duration - 7¼ HOURS

 

Chennai City Highlights

 

This tour will allow you to discover the highlights of Chennai, also known as the ‘Capital of the South’.

 

Fort George was built by the British East India Company in 1640 and symbolised the beginning of British rule in India. Within the remnants of the fort is the Fort George Museum, one of the oldest surviving buildings. The museum was opened in 1948 and began with a small collection of objects of the British Raj that were donated by the local government and authorities. Today it houses a much wider collection and offers an interesting insight into the history of the fort.

 

The San Thome Cathedral Basilica is a beautiful neo-Gothic style white structure and its spire is 183 feet high. It is believed to have been built over the tomb of St Thomas, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ. This sacred place has been awarded the status as a National Shrine of India.

 

The Bronze Gallery is located in the Government Museum and showcases a fascinating collection of period bronzes. You can view Saivite, Vaishnavite, Jain and Buddhist pieces from the early years and discover more about the unique Bronze collection.

 

Kapleeshwara Temple is believed to be one of the oldest and most revered holy places in the city. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kapleeshwara Temple is characteristic of the Dravidian architectural style with its elaborate and intricate carvings. Its striking gopurams (monumental towers) are colourful creations and within the carvings of the temple are inscriptions that date as far back as 1250 AD.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves around 35-60 minutes of moderate walking at each stop, which is over relatively flat ground. At the Fort George Museum and Bronze Gallery there are numerous steps to negotiate. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

 

Tour code - MAA_001

Features - Activity medium

Duration - 5 HOURS

 

Darkshinachitra Centre of Living Traditions

 

Dakshinachitra offers a wonderful insight into the art, folk performing arts, crafts and architecture of India.

 

Supported by the Madras Craft Foundation, a non-profit organisation, Dakshinachitra opened to the public in December 1996. The centre occupies 10 undulating acres overlooking the Bay of Bengal, at Muttukadu and is a unique heritage centre.

 

During your visit, you’ll see traditional craftsmen and folk artists working and performing in the reconstructed period settings of 19th century streets, homes and workshop spaces. The structures are representative of those once found in India’s four Southern states, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Karnataka. The centre offers an enlightening and educating insight into the diverse lifestyles of the people of Southern India.

 

You’ll have around 2½ - 3 hours to explore Dakshinachitra with your guide and discover everything the centre has to offer.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to Dakshinachitra is around 1½ hours each way, with a comfort stop en route. This tour involves around 2½ hours of leisurely guided walking, which is over paved surfaces including some steps. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Local currency is required for purchases at Dakshinachitra.

 

Tour code - MAA_004

Features - Activity medium, Refreshments included

Duration - 5½ HOURS

 

Leisurely Chennai

 

A leisurely option that combines a panoramic drive around Chennai, with a visit to the Kapaleswarar Temple.

 

Sit back and relax, as you set off on a panoramic drive through Chennai, passing by the Madras High Court, part of what is believed to be the 2nd largest judicial complex in the world. Your drive will continue to the Fort St George viewpoint, where a short photo stop will be made, before heading past Marina Beach, the country’s longest urban beach. Look out for the War Memorial and Madras University Building, as you drive towards the local fish market and then onto the San Thome Cathedral Basilica. Here, a short photo stop will be made for you to enjoy the exterior of this beautiful neo-Gothic style white structure and 183 foot spire.

 

Afterwards, you’ll continue to the Kapaleswarar Temple, believed to be one of the oldest and most revered holy places in the city. The temple is an elaborate and intricate colourful creation with inscriptions that date back to 1250 AD. Enjoy a short visit to admire the striking temple, before taking the drive back to the port. En route you’ll pass by more city sights, including the Cricket Stadium, Central Railway Station and Parry Corner.

 

This excursion will operate by coach. To derive full enjoyment from this tour, some walking is required at the Kapaleswarar Temple. This is leisurely and over relatively flat ground. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

 

Tour code - MAA_005

Features - Activity low

Duration - 3½ HOURS

 

Grande Bay Resort

 

An easygoing option that gives you the chance to chill out and unwind at the Grande Bay Resort in Mahabalipuram.

 

The Grande Bay Resort Hotel in Mahabalipuram, a two hour drive from Chennai, is set amidst a lush tropical garden and close to the shores of the Bay of Bengal.

 

Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome refreshment, before settling down for some leisure time. During your stay you can relax and sunbathe around the hotel’s inviting pool and perhaps take a refreshing dip, or simply explore the hotel grounds.

 

A delicious local style buffet luncheon is included.

 

BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS

For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

 

LIABILITY

Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

 

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

 

This excursion will operate by coach.Places are limited and this tour will sell out. The drive to Mahabalipuram is around two hours each way with a comfort stop en route. The time spent at the resort is around three hours, which includes time for luncheon. A welcome refreshment is included, however additional refreshments can be purchased and are payable in local currency. Although the hotel is located on the beachfront, a walk of around five minutes along a pathway provides access onto the beach itself. Guests are strongly advised to swim only in the hotel pool as there is a risk of strong undercurrents in the sea. The use of the hotel pool and buffet luncheon are included, there may be charges for other services within the hotel and these are payable on the day in local currency. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

 

Tour code - MAA_006

Features - Activity medium, Meal included, Refreshments included

Duration - 7 HOURS

[bluemarble]

Cochin Excursions

 

Please note: The shore excursions listed are typical for this port. The full programme of shore excursions available for your cruise will be displayed on Cruise Personaliser at least 12 weeks prior to departure.

 

Yoga Experience

 

An opportunity to participate in a yoga session at one of the best yoga training centres in the region.

 

Yoga, in all its forms, has for centuries been hailed for its health and well-being properties. Long practiced in the Hindu faith and now, all over the world, it’s about finding perfect harmony between mind, body and spirit.

 

Your tour will give you the chance to learn some basic techniques and who knows perhaps give you a new pastime to take home with you!

 

You’ll depart from the pier for the Pathanjali Yoga Centre, one of the best yoga training centres in Kerala. This authentic and established institute is affiliated to S-Vyasa and Morarji Deasi National Institute of Yoga and their belief is that one should aim for spiritual progress and at the same time allow it to work for the good of others. The mission of the team is to promote original yoga amongst people. It may not all happen at once, on this single visit, but the aim is for you to find physical fitness, energy and peace of mind.

 

You’ll be given a simple introduction to yoga, asanas (positions), pranayamas (breathing exercises), relaxation techniques and meditation, along with the basic theories of yoga.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Pregnant women and children are not permitted to participate on this tour. Please ensure to wear comfortable sports attire and bring a towel. Passengers are also recommended to bring a bottle of water with them. The journey to the centre is approximately 45 minutes each way.

 

Tour code - COK_017

Features - Activity medium

Duration - 2½ HOURS

 

Cochin Heritage Trail

 

Discover the colonial past of this Portuguese settlement on a fascinating walking tour.

 

A walk through the streets of Fort Cochin is an ideal way to discover this historic town, brimming with tales of seafaring traders, who made Cochin the first European township in India.

 

You’ll transfer by coach to Fort Cochin and walk along the old colonial, tree-lined avenues. A visit will be made to one of India’s oldest churches, St Francis Church, before continuing past Princess Street and Loafers Corner. One of the earliest streets in Fort Cochin, this area still retains its old world charm with European style quarters. View the gothic exterior of the Santa Cruz Basilica, a Roman Catholic Cathedral, which is a place of devotion as well as a centre of historic significance. Short photograph stops will be made at the Chinese fishing nets, one of the area’s famous landmarks, and Dhobi Ghat, an open air laundry.

 

Continue on your trail to the Dutch Cemetery, an interesting and quiet site, to see the history of the many Europeans who came here on a mission to expand their colonial empire. You’ll see many examples of Indo-European architecture as you pass by private colonial homes.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves approximately two hours of walking over mostly paved ground. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes, sunscreen and a sunhat are recommended. Two bottles of water will be provided for the walk.

 

Tour code - COK_014

Features - Activity high

Duration - 2¾ HOURS

 

Local Life and Traditions

 

Experience the lifestyles, traditions, art and culture of the locals from the small village of Vaikom.

 

Enjoy an insightful journey into rural India and glimpse the unhurried lifestyle of the locals, their simple homes and small workshops. Vaikom village lies on the western side of the Kottayam district of Kerala. During your time in this small rural village you will see the Vaikom Mahdeva Temple (exterior view) and visit the Khadi Weaving Centre, where you will see the dexterity with which these villagers produce beautiful Khadi cloth - a hand-spun and hand-woven cloth made out of cotton. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a short ride on a tuk tuk.

 

A short transfer will take you to the jetty where you will board the local country boats for a leisurely cruise down the narrow canals to the local village. In the village centre, you will also have an opportunity to see how the local people earn their livelihoods. View the ladies weaving coir ropes from dried coconut husks, see straw mats being woven out of wild pineapple leaves and watch the local potter create a range of pots and vases, depicting ethnic designs in clay.

 

Refreshments of cookies and banana chips and tea, coffee or a soft drink will be provided during the tour.

 

This excursion will operate by coach, country boat, tuk tuk and on foot. There is approximately two hours’ total walking mainly on rough surfaced and rural unpaved roads. Guests are advised that not all coaches have air conditioning. Comfortable, non-slip shoes, sunscreen, bottled water, and a sunhat are recommended.

 

Tour code - COK_011

Features - Activity medium, Refreshments included

Duration - 5½ HOURS

 

Cochin Harbour Cruise

 

This leisurely boat ride enables you to explore Cochin harbour and glimpse the surrounding islands.

 

Cochin is blessed with one of the world’s finest natural harbours. This has earned the town the title, ‘Venice of the Orient’ and ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. Enjoy a cruise through a cluster of islands networked by lagoons and backwaters. Cochin’s natural harbour, almost in the middle of the city, was created by the underwater Malabar mudbanks that ensure its calm waters.

 

Enjoy your cruise past the famous Chinese fishing nets, which are probably the single most familiar image of the area. These huge fishing nets were introduced by Chinese traders from the court of Kublai Khan in the late 14th century. The harbour is in the heart of the city, where pepper, seafood, rubber and coir are all exported.

 

Glide past the islands of Vypeen, Gundu, Vallarpadam and Bolghatty, where you will see the country boats laden with wares, prawn farms and shell collections from the river bed. The tour gives a glimpse of the traditional coastal and backwater lifestyle of Kerala’s local people.

 

This excursion will operate by boat and coach. The boats are not equipped with a PA system, so no commentary will be given, however the guide is available to answer questions. The local Port Authorities do not always permit seating on the upper deck; should this be permitted, guests are required to wear a lifejacket. The cruise is approximately 2½ hours. A return coach transfer is provided to the boat jetty. Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, bottled water and a sunhat are recommended.

 

Tour code - COK_007

Features - Activity low

Duration - 2¾ HOURS

 

Highlights of Cochin

 

Cochin was once on the main trade route between Europe and China. Learn of its interesting past and see the city sights.

 

Begin by exploring the Fort Cochin area, with visits to St Francis Church, the Indo-Portuguese Museum and the Chinese fishing nets.

 

St Francis Church, built in 1503, is India’s oldest European church. The history of this Church reflects the colonial struggle of European powers in India, from the 15th to 20th centuries. The Indo-Portuguese Museum was established to showcase the rich cultural heritage and Portuguese influences in both the art and architecture of the region. The Chinese fishing nets are fixed land installations for an unusual form of fishing using shore operated lift nets. Their size and elegant construction is remarkable, whilst the slow rhythm of their operation is quite hypnotic. Enjoy a brief stroll past the local fish market, where locals purchase the fish and have it cooked in front of them.

 

Travel to the Mattancherry area to visit the Dutch Palace. Even though the Dutch Palace is austere in its appearance, its main glory rests on the large number of murals, executed in the best traditions of Hindu temple art, which are religious, decorative and stylised. Finally, a short walk through Jew Town will take you past various shops selling a wealth of goods from spices to antiques.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Please refer to the ‘Important Information’ for this port. There are 18 steps to negotiate at the Dutch Palace. Photography and video is not permitted in the Dutch Museum or the Indo Portuguese Museum. There is approximately two hours of walking in total. It is recommended that you carry a bottle of water.

 

Tour code - COK_012

Features - Activity medium

Duration - 4¼ HOURS

 

The Backwaters of Kerala

 

Relax on this leisurely cruise through the famous Kerala backwaters, passing lush vegetation and local villages along the way.

 

Alleppey is nestled in the midst of a tangle of lush tropical waterways, and it is here that you will board a smaller boat for an idyllic cruise through the majestic forests and palm-shaded backwaters of the town and surroundings.

 

The term ‘backwaters’ refers to the extensive network of rivers, lakes, canals and lagoons that lace together the coast and interior of Cochin. For centuries these canals have provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland and the port towns along the coast.

 

Glide along shimmering waterways lined with dense tropical vegetation, and observe the rural lifestyle that you would never see from the road. Views range from narrow canals walled in with thick greenery to open vistas of brilliant green paddy fields. Papaya, mango, jack fruit and cassava grow along the palm-lined banks. Along the way you will see coconut harvesting and coir factories that make up the main industry of Kerala. Watch as the villagers wash their clothes, and sometimes their buffaloes, at the water's edge.

 

Refreshments of tea and coffee will be served afterwards at a local hotel.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and motor boat. The boats are not equipped with air-conditioning or a PA system, so no commentary will be given, however the guide is available to answer questions. The local Port Authorities do not always permit seating on the upper deck; should this be permitted, guests are required to wear a lifejacket. Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, water and a sunhat are recommended. The journey to Alleppey takes 1½ hours. A comfort stop will be provided en-route. The cruise lasts approximately two hours. It is advisable to consume a hearty breakfast in the morning as only light refreshments will be available during the tour.

 

Tour code - COK_013

Features - Activity low, Refreshments included

Duration - 6 HOURS

 

Panoramic Cochin & Kathakali Performance

 

A leisurely tour of Cochin combined with a traditional cultural performance – a relaxing way to experience the city.

 

Take a brief coach orientation of Fort Cochin where you will pass St Francis Church, the oldest European Church in India, before stopping for a photograph at the Chinese fishing nets.

 

You will then be transferred to the Greenix Cultural Theatre to enjoy the traditional Kerala Cultural Performance of Kathakali. Kathakali is the classical dance-drama of Kerala, South India, which dates from the 17th century and is rooted in Hindu mythology. It is a harmonious combination of five forms; literature, music, painting, acting and dance. The role of each of these art forms has led Kathakali to become the ‘King of performing arts’.

 

The headgear worn by the various characters in Kathakali are excellent specimens of intricate wood carving, an ancient speciality of the region. Even the shiny finishing of trinkets takes hours of painstaking labour by expert craftsmen. Most of the ornaments donning each character are made in this fashion too.

 

A considerable part of the script is in the form of lyrics, sung by vocalists. The only accompaniments are percussion instruments like Chenda (drum played with sticks), Maddalam (drum played with fingers), Chengila (gong) and Ilathalam (cymbals). Drumming especially of Chenda is the salient feature of Kathakali.

 

Refreshments of soft drinks and a martial arts demonstration of ‘Kalaripayattu’ will follow the dance performance.

 

This excursion will operate by coach. All sightseeing is conducted from the coach, with the exception of the photograph stop. Approximately 1½ hours is spent at the performance venue.

 

Tour code - COK_004

Features - Activity low, Refreshments included

Duration - 4 HOURS

 

Backwaters Houseboat Experience

 

Experience the Kerala backwaters on board a traditional houseboat.

 

You’ll step aboard your traditional houseboat in Appelley, nestled amongst the tropical waterways of Kerala. The houseboats are converted from a traditional Indian longboat and are a blend of old and new—old for its thatched roof, typical of these types of vessels and new for the solar panels that provide energy for lighting. The boats offer a smaller group experience, with each boat accommodating just 14 guests.

 

Sit back and relax as you glide along the network of rivers, lakes and canals known as the backwaters, which connect the coast to the inland. These canals have, for centuries, provided a safe and efficient means for transporting goods and people, helping to establish the region as a centre for trade. On the water’s edge you’ll catch sight of the villagers washing their clothes, and sometimes their buffaloes. The views provide a wonderful mix of tropical vegetation, open vistas of brilliant green paddy fields and sights of traditional rural life.

 

During your cruise, refreshments will be served.

 

As your houseboat cruise draws to an end, you’ll rejoin your coach for the return drive to the pier.

 

This excursion will operate by coach and houseboat. The boats are not equipped with air-conditioning or a PA system, so no commentary will be given, however the guide is available to answer questions. Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, water and a sun hat are recommended. The journey to Alleppey takes 1½ hours. A comfort stop will be provided en route. The cruise lasts approximately two hours. It is advisable to consume a hearty breakfast in the morning as only light refreshments will be available during the tour.

 

Tour code - COK_016

Features - Activity medium, Refreshments included

Duration - 6 HOURS

 

The Best of Cochin

 

Enjoy the highlights of Cochin followed by a leisurely harbour cruise to give you a real feel of Cochin.

 

Embark on a journey through the distinctly characteristic city of Cochin to Fort Cochin, where a stop will be made at St Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. You’ll then visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum. This Museum was established in a bid to protect and showcase the rich cultural heritage and Portuguese influence. Take a short walk past the local fish market, where locals have their catch cooked and served to them, to the Chinese fishing nets. These nets are set up on bamboo poles and held horizontally by huge mechanisms, which lower them into the sea. This is a unique symbol of the centuries-old influence on this coastline.

 

Refreshments of tea, coffee and cakes will be served at a local hotel, before heading to the Mattancherry area, for a visit to the Dutch Palace. Now a museum, it features India’s finest mythological murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits, exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi and a rare example of traditional Kerala flooring. Afterwards, take a walk through Jew Town past the oldest Jewish Synagogue in India and the local shops selling spices, handicrafts and antiques.

 

Finally, enjoy a relaxing cruise on the backwaters surrounding the harbour, where you’ll see country boats laden with various wares. As you pass the islands of Vallarpadam, Gundu and Bolghatty, you’ll get a glimpse of local life on the various islands.

 

This excursion will operate by coach, boat and on foot. The boats are not equipped with air-conditioning or a PA system, so no commentary will be given, however the guide is available to answer questions The local Port Authorities do not always permit seating on the upper deck; should this be permitted, guests are required to wear a lifejacket. The cruise is approximately one hour. There are 18 steps to negotiate at the Dutch Palace. There is approximately 1½ hours walking in total. This tour operates over luncheon, therefore it is recommended that guests have a hearty breakfast.

 

Tour code - COK_003

Features - Activity medium, Refreshments included

Duration - 6 HOURS

[Cats2010]

Hello bluemarble, John,

 

Thank you so much for your help, you did a great job! This leaves me breathless and I wish I could return your kindness somehow.

 

But here is an idea: Looking at your nickname I think you are concerned about our planet and its future. Maybe I should tell you that, for many years, I have been working on the environment and all which is connected thereto, which often was a challenge but also gave me satisfaction knowing I did the right thing!

 

After a first glance to Cunard's program I am certainly going to Mahabalipuram and the backwaters of Kerala, which I missed last time.

I would also like to see a performance of Kathakali dance and, and, and.

There is so much to be seen and it's difficult to pack it all into one day.

 

Anyway, thank you again.

 

Wishing you all the best!

[JohnKen3]

Next year, QM2 on her world cruise, will also be throwing anchor in Goa, Chennai/Madras and Kochi of India. On a previous cruise we did excursions to Northern India, which have impressed me so much that I would not dare to do them again, also with some alterations to it.

 

India does really cope with mass group tourism very well. It copes with private groups very well.

 

Kochi has so much to offer it should be a primary focus for some research of your own.

If the time allows when you are in Kochi, I would suggest you looking into a private hire of Rice Barge to sail along the canals that irrigate the rice paddies. We found this to be such a tranquil setting, it was heavenly. Do not try to get more that six people on a rice barge - you will loose the mood of tranquility. Goa is a generally Western tourist trap unless you can find something that takes you up to the tea plantations on the hills nearby. Chennai/Madras is a city with mass humanity as only India can do it.

[Cats2010]

Thank you for our explanations, JohnKen3. I had planned to sail through the canals of Kerala, but do it privately is an even better idea; I am sure it is heavenly!

 

Can't wait to be there and, hopefully, there will also be excursions from Goa to Northern India, which is on my mind since I have been there.

 

Thank you again!