Trip Reports
23 December
Setting sail from Southampton
Southampton is the UK's leading port. Bustling modern cruise terminals, as well as wharfs and commercial harbours, line the waterfront, whilst the city itself is a fascinating mix of ancient and modern, with a picturesque old town, the original city walls still standing, and super-modern shopping centres and office complexes. On all corners you will see tributes to the city's rich history and maritime heritage. Henry V marched his troops through the Westgate on his way to the battle of Agincourt, The Mayflower sailed from here with a cargo of settlers to the New World, and the Titanic started her fateful voyage here.
Don't miss
Just a short drive from Southampton is the magical New Forest with its quaint hamlets, historic towns and seaside villages. Look out for the ponies too.
24-26 December
At sea
27 December
Canary Islands: Santa Cruz de La Palma
The lush volcanic island of La Palma is one of the Canary Islands’ best kept secrets, a place where tourism is still low key and the beautiful scenery is unspoilt by high rise developments. Don’t miss the colourful colonial architecture of the capital, Santa Cruz, reminiscent of the Spanish Caribbean.
28 December
Canary Islands: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Said to have the world's most perfect climate, cosmopolitan Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria and the largest city in the Canary Islands. The charming old quarter, La Vegueta, is where you'll find the city's most interesting colonial architecture, while beach fans should head for lovely Playa de las Canteras.
29 December
Canary Islands: Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the closest of the Canary Islands to Africa, and this is reflected in the sun-baked landscape. Ships dock at Puerto del Rosario, which has little of interest; instead, take a trip into the mountainous interior, hit the beach or try your hand at windsurfing.
29-30 December
Canary Islands: Lanzarote
In recent years Lanzarote has begun to shake off its mass market reputation and reinvent itself as a more upmarket destination. The extraordinary volcanic landscapes and the works of local artist César Manrique give the island a unique appearance, and the understated capital, Arrecife, is well worth exploring.
31 December - 1 January
Portugal: Funchal
Funchal, Madeira’s bustling capital, tumbles down a dramatic hillside towards a beautiful sweeping bay. Highlights include colourful markets, wine lodges and the spectacular cable car ride up to the village of Monte, home of the famous toboggan run.
2 January
At sea
3 January
Spain: Cádiz
The crumbling, sun-baked seafront city of Cádiz is said to be the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the western world, founded by the Phoenicians around 1100 BC. Although the city lacks any obvious landmarks, it’s rich in atmosphere, and plays host to one of Spain’s most colourful carnivals.
4 January
Portugal: Lisbon
Spread across steep hillsides that overlook the Rio Tejo, Lisbon’s colourful cityscape includes Gothic cathedrals, majestic monasteries and quaint museums. But for many the best times will be had wandering the narrow lanes of Lisbon’s lovely backstreets, with their great local food, wine and music.
5-6 January
At sea
7 January
Arriving in Southampton
Our tip
Get a copy of the Old Town Walk map from the tourist information centre, a perfect (and free!) way to explore Southampton at a leisurely pace.
Your home from home
Elegant and graceful, Cunard’s Queen Victoria has an ambience evocative of the great liners of the past.
What we love
Modern features combined with traditional and elegant décor are reminiscent of the golden age of cruising. We particularly like the excellent Queens Grill accommodation which offers additional space and access to the exclusive Queens Grill and Princess Grill restaurants, along with dedicated lounges and deck areas.
| Capacity | 2,061 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 981 International Staff |
| Style | Traditionally formal cruising with the evening attire always expected to be refined even on 'informal' evenings. |
| Inclusions |
|
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Overnight in Southampton
Stay at the Pig in the Wall, stylish with great food. Very small so book early.
Day trips from Southampton
Visit historic Winchester, home to King Arthur’s Round Table, the Great Hall and Winchester Cathedral.
