BRAZIL SHORE EXCURSIONS

Welcome to Shore Excursions in Brazil , in this page as you scroll down you will find all Brazil ports of call and the shore excursions in each city. All our services are provided in modern fully equiped vehicles and the assistance of profesional guides.

Departing from the port, you travel to Cosme Velho neighbourhood. You will then board a train at the station, which will take you high up to the top of the Corcovado (Christ Redeemer statue ). This 30 metre tall monument is mounted on an 8 metre high pedestal, situated at an altitude of 709 metres. The location offers a magnificent, all round view of the city, beaches, Guanabara Bay, and Sugarloaf Mountain. The famous statue which is made of stone and cement weighs 1,145 tons, and is the emblem of the city of Río de Janeiro. After this stop, you will descend the Floresta da Tijuca mountain, whilst admiring the natural beauty and lush vegetation of urban Brazil’s largest forest reserve. Afterwards, you continue in the direction of the Leblón, Ipanema and Copacabana neighbourhoods, arriving at Praia Vermelha and the Urca neighbourhood. Here, you take a cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain. You will be able to appreciate the spectacular view of the city, the famous beaches, Guanabara Bay, and Corcovad. o mountain with the Christ the Redeemer statue, amongst other points of interest.

2.-Corcovado, Christ Redeemer (4 Hrs)

Departing from the port, you will travel through the city centre towards Flamengo Park and Praia do Botafogo, before arriving at Praia Vermelha in the Urca neighbourhood. There, you will take a cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain. On the first stretch, you will arrive at Morro da Urca, which is full of gardens and miradors. On the second, you will appreciate the spectacular view of the city, beaches, Guanabara Bay, and Corcovado mountain on the horizon. After admiring the breathtaking panorama, you will return to the coach and continue your tour, proceeding to Copacabana for a panoramic drive.

4.-Super Rio, Sugar Loaf and Corcovado (8 Hrs)

You will leave the port of Santos and take the spectacular Anchieta/Imigrantes motorway, a feat of engineering whose many bridges and tunnels climb over 900 metres in the Serra do Mar, to reach the state capital of São Paulo, Brazil's largest metropolis. Originally a small village founded by the Jesuits in 1554, São Paulo is now the largest city in Latin America, covering an area of 1,530 square kilometres. You will enjoy a sightseeing tour of this great metropolis, taking in the main tourist attractions, such as the Parque do Ibirapuera and the Obelisk, a monument and mausoleum commemorating the soldiers who participated in the Constitutionalist Revolution of 1932, an uprising against the federal government of President Getúlio Vargas. You will then cross Morumbi, one of the city's smartest districts, which is home to the Jockey Club, the seat of the São Paulo state government and the Estádio do Morumbi, and drive along Avenida Brigadeiro Faria Lima and Avenida Paulista (depending on traffic con. ditions). After lunch, you will visit the cathedral, the Pátio do Colégio (the founding site of the city), the Municipal Theatre and Praça da República, before stopping to take some photographs in Parque da Independência, the spot where Emperor Dom Pedro I proclaimed Brazil's independence in 1822. The park is home a building founded in 1890 as a monument to independence, which now houses the Museu Paulista (visit from the outside), and a handsome French-style garden.

2.-Discovering Santos and Sao Vicente (4 Hrs)

Leaving behind the port, this panoramic tour of Santos will take you through the main historic and tourist spots of what is the main coastal city of São Paulo State - 70 km from the capital city -, also considered the main city of the Baixada Santista metropolitan area. You will visit the Bolsa do Café (Coffee Stock Exchange), founded in 1922 with the aim of centralizing commercial coffee trade operations. Here you will have the opportunity to see the Salão do Pregão (the Auction Hall), where you will find a number of decorative panels painted by the famous artist Benedicto Calixto. You will then have the chance to wander through the Coffee Museum, where you will be given time to enjoy the most delicious coffee in Brazil (optional) or purchase the best of its selected coffees. Afterwards you will continue your tour heading towards the old city centre, where you will find the Alfândega, the local courthouse, and the Coliseo Theatre, built during the 1920s, winding up this section of the tour at th. e Memorial das Conquistas of Santos Football Club, the team in which the legendary Pelé began his illustrious career. In this memorial you will find displayed the club's trophies, tributes, as well as l'Espaço Pelé, a section briefly exposing the life of one of the most famous Brazilian footballers of all time. Following this, you will return to the bus for a panoramic tour of the city along its beaches, until arriving at São Vicente, founded in 1532 and considered the first Brazilian "city". There will then be a chance to take some pictures at "A Biquinha", before continuing your panoramic tour along the beaches of São Vicente and Santos, where you will have the opportunity to see the longest beachfront gardens in the words. Finally, you will begin your return journey to the port.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN SALVADOR BAHIA

1.-Contrasts of Salvador (3 ½ Hrs)

This walking tour is the perfect way to experience everything that the city of Salvador has to offer. The tour first heads to Porto da Barra and then to the Misericordia Museum. You’ll continue to the Corredor da Vitória, the Terreiro de Jesus, the Cathedral and the church of São Francisco. From here you’ll head to Pelourinho where you can visit Brazil’s first post office. Here enjoy a colonial tea and sample various sweet and savoury traditional Bahaian specialties.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN PARATI

HALF DAY SCHOONER CRUISE (5 hours)

Traditional tour with different routes for each day of week, it has two stops with approximately 40 minutes. Among these stops, we have one that became essential: the Ilha Comprida which is known as natural aquarium.Paraty has 65 islands and many beaches of uncommon beauty. It is surrounded for exuberant vegetation that makes it a quiet and unbelievable place to stay. The waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.All boats offer security and comfort. The tour includes tropical fruits.

HALF DAY JEEP TOUR ALONG THE GOLD TRAIL (3,5 hours)

This tour is made in different waterfalls inside of the Serra da Bocaina with beauties and attractions.The first stop at exposition of the Gold trail, where you can know a little about the history of the Gold trail, Afterwards, the tour visits the distillery of cachaça, Engenho D’ouro, where we can tasty different kinds of cachaça and see its artesian process of fabrication.In this tour we have a directly contact with the nature, and this way you can know the beauty of the flora of Parati including one of the biggest tree of the region named Jequitibá and you can see plants like bamboo Brazil, Bromeliads among others.The next visit is: Pedra Branca’s waterfall. A trekking to the waterfall with a stop for swimming is also included.

· This tour includes STRENUOUS walking (hiking) and is NOT recommended for pax with walking difficulties

· Part of walk is in rain forest where mosquitoes are prevalent

HALF DAY HISTORIC PARATI ON FOOT (2 hours)

Your guide will lead you through the cobblestone streets of the enchanting historic area of Parati. Parati was an important port for the gold mining industry in the early 18th century, and the past prosperity is reflected in the ornate churches and beautiful homes. Filled with unique architecture, Parati is known as one of Brazil’s most picturesque towns. Enjoy some time at leisure to shop in the small boutiques or sip a coffee in one of the attractive outdoor restaurants.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN PORTO SEGURO

PORTO SEGURO CITY TOUR (3 hours)

Our city tour starts by Porto Seguro Historical Center, which is located in the top part of the city, where it is concentrated the cultural and historical heritage, with several churches and other monuments of the 16th century. The visitor may also enjoy a capoeira show, know about our crafts and the famous acarajé. From there, we go to Coroa Vermelha, place where the first Mass was celebrated in Brazil, on April 26, 1500, where the visitor can also know a bit of Pataxó Indians’ culture and, also, their crafts.

Drinks are not included and have to be purchased directly by the Passengers.

JAQUEIRA PATAXO RESERVE (3 ½ hours)

Nature has more than beautiful landscape to offer you.

Biodiversity - Preservation - Culture - Ecotourism - Environmental Education

The Atlantic Forest biodiversity is one of the richest in the world. And also, the most endangered one in the planet. Pataxó community that has always lived in these lands, knows better than anybody else how to preserve this natural asset. Therefore, Jaqueira Pataxó Reserve, an area of 827 hectare, totally preserved and protected from man’s destruction. This area worked as an important link among the Indians, their culture and their habitat and the called “white man”. Open to visitation, the Reserve offers a rare opportunity for the practical exercise of the environmental education, besides allowing a total integration with the Indian community. The visits are carried out in small groups and guided by Indian monitors, who explain in detail the characteristics of the region, the flora, the fauna and the customs of their people. In this ride, the visitor has an opportunity to see how the Indians live, their food, their houses and the way they live, besides a closer contact to Atlantic Forest.

The itinerary of the visit includes:

1- A talk about environment and Indian culture;

2- Presentation of Indian weapons and means of communication;

3- Walking on the trails of Atlantic Forest with Indian stories;

4- Presentation of traditional food: fish in the patioba,

5- "Kijeme do Pajé" Ritual

6- Presentation of bows and arrows;

7- Indian Dance;

Drinks are not included and have to be purchased directly by the Passengers.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN ILHÉUS

RAIN FOREST SAFARI (5 hours)

Leave the ship by Bus southwards to Ecoparque de Una. Arrival at Ecoparque de Una Meeting Point. Transfer to four wheel drive jeep for a 20 minute ride towards inner park area. Short comfortstop at reception area before walk begins. Start rain-forest walk accompanied by environmental interpreter. Ecoparque de Una is a conservation project implanted by Non-Governmental Organizations to show the potential of Ecological Tourism for the Region. Environmental Education, Professional Training, social and conservation projects, and research are part of the park’s establishment. The park is currently funded in part by donations, yet, is bound to sustain itself on base of entrance fees and souvenir sales.Golden-headed Lion-tamarins, Kuhl’s Marmoset, Masked Titi Monkeys and Maned Sloths may be seen during the tour but of course there are no guarantees. During the walk, pax will normally travel across a very safe suspension-footbridge about 20 metres above the forest floor. However, an alternative path near the bridge is available for pax suffering from vertigo. Arrival at park resting cabin for an included soft drink. Leave park by jeep. Board bus to return for Ilhéus.

ILHEUS & COCOA TOUR (4 hours)

From the ship we travel by bus to the historical center. We begin the tour walking through the historical centre towards St. Sebastian’s Cathedral. During this tour we will see where some of the “Cocoa Barons” used to live. The bus leaves the city, and we travel to Fazenda Primavera (Primavera Farm).Visit the Cocoa plantation area. Ilheus area was struck by a devastating cocoa plant fungus in 1986 but with extensive grafting a new, resistant strain has been produced. Visit the Cocoa processing area. Visit the Family museum where an included soft drink will be served. Primavera Farm is a typical cocoa plantation from the 19th century and is still in the family of its founders. It became famous in a recent TV series but has still preserved its old characteristics.

COCOA & SCIENCE (5 hours)

CEPLAC is a Portuguese acronym for the full name of the cocoa scientific research centre. The Centre is also dedicated to research on nature conservation, hence the sloth rehabilitation centre and the facilities for snake research. Snakes are kept out of harm’s way. In 1986 the Ilheus area was struck by a cocoa fungus disease, but in recent years a grafting process has led to a new strain of fungus-resistant plant being produced.

CITY TOUR ILHÉUS (4 hours)

Leave the bus and visit the Monastery that was built in 1926 in neogothic style by French nun as boarding school, now private school. Short guided visit including beautiful chapel. By bus to historical center. Walking Tour of approx. 1 km through the historical centre towards St. Sebastian´s Cathedral. End of walking tour at Restaurant Vesúvio where natural cocoa juice is served, approx. 01:45 hour free time in the city centre.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN BUZIOS

HAL FDAY SCHOONER CRUISE TO THE BEACHES OF BUZIOS (3 hours)

The schooner departs from the pier of Buzios at Ossos beach and includes passing the beaches of Ossos, Azeda, Azedinha, João Fernandes, João Fernandinho, Ilha Branca, Tartaruga, Virgem, Amores, Canto,Ilha do Caboclo and Armação. Stop for picture taking will be made at Ilha Feia and Praia da Tartaruga.

BUZIOS CITY TOUR IN TROLLEYS (2 ½ hours)

Board an open air trolley for a drive through scenic downtown and past main beaches of the area. This narrated tour will take you to scenic overlooks at Mirante de João Fernandes and Mirante do Forno where you will have the chance to take the 20 stairs to view the beautiful coastal vistas. At Forno beach a stop will be made for refreshments and to purchase souvenirs before re-boarding the trolley for your scenic tour back to town.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN SALVADOR BAHIA

HALFDAY HISTORICAL TOUR (4 hours)

Discover the many faces of Salvador da Bahia during your morning excursion. Get a glimpse of the city’s intriguing cultural mix of African and European heritage. During the tour you will get to see the historic and modern sections of the city including the Bahian subway, a contrast between the new and the old. From the ship you will be transferred by coach directly to Municipal Square, where you can see the Lacerda’s Elevator that links the upper and lower city and also take a overview of Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay). From there, we start our walking tour through the Historical Center, arriving at “Terreiro de Jesus Square”, to visit two of Salvador’s most important churches. Facing Terreiro de Jesus Square is the Baroque Cathedral. It was formerly the chapel of the largest Jesuit seminary outside Rome. The plain exterior masks one of the most beautiful churches in the city. The stunning interior includes a panelled ceiling of carved and gilded wood which gives the church a light airy feel, contrasting sharply to the overwrought Rococó altar and side chapels. At the end of the recently renovated square stands the Church of São Francisco. The opulent interior features cedar woodcarvings, covered in gold leaf that took 28 years to complete. Also note the beautiful White and blue tiled walls and the spectacular painted ceiling. The Pelourinho District is one of the oldest áreas in town; you will stroll throughout its narrow cobbled streets lined with old buildings which now house art galleries, jewelry and souvenir shops. The “Largo do Pelourinho” is a colonial square and pillory, where slaves and prisoners were punished in full view of the approving gentry. Back on the coach, we will pass by the Dique do Tororó, where we can see the “Orixás Sculptures”, by the Bahian artist Tati Moreno, to reach the Barra district where is located the “Farol da Barra” (Lighthouse) at the fortress of San Antonio, built to protect the Portugueses colonists from Dutch invadors; we will stop only for historical information, no disembarkation. Leaving the Lighthouse, we will drive directly to Mercado Modelo (handcraft market) where you can find different kind of souvenir shops, with musical instruments, T-Shirts, tapestry, paintings, small jewelry, leather

HALF DAY PANORAMIC SALVADOR (3 ½ hours)

This tour gives a general impression of the city of Salvador.Leaving the pier, driving to Farol da Barra (Lighthouse) - Stop for photos. Continue via Centenário Avenue, Fonte Nova (the soccer stadium) and Vale de Nazaré, to the Americo Simas Tunnel, which links the “lower” with the “upper” city. Arriving in Ribeira, we have a partial view to the suburbs of Plataforma and Lobato, the first place where petrol had been discovered in Brazil;ongoing we pass Nossa Senhoa da Penha Church and Beira Mar Avenue, before we arrive at Bonfim Church. After visitation we will visit the Mont Serrat with the fort and its church of the 17^TH century from where we have the most spectacular view of the city of Salvador. We leave the Itapagipe Peninsula and drive along the port of Salvador to the Mercado Modelo (handcraft market).Return to the pier.

FULL DAY PRAIA DO FORTE WITH LUNCH (8 hours)

50 miles north of Salvador on Bahia´s Miracle Coast is the resort town/fishing village of Praia do Forte. During your tour of this charming area you will have the opportunity to visit Garcia D´Avila Castle, one of the oldest stone buildings in Brazil. Built in the 14th Century, high on the Tatuapara hill by a Garcia D´Avila who came ashore on this coastline accompanied by the Governor General Tomé de Souza. Garcia D´Ávila decided to build on the land some houses, a chapel and his own residence called the "Casa da Torre" which became known as a castle because the style was similar to that of the European Medieval period. Time and weather conditions took their toll on

Castelo Garcia D´Ávila and on 28th December 2002 the building was reopened after a 2 year restoration project. Enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the coastline from the fort. Next take a walk through the picturesque fishing village to visit the highly successful Tamar Project. Founded in 1980 by the Brazilian Environment Agency to reverse the extinction process of the 5 species of Sea Turtles found in Brazil; Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, Green and Leatherback. During your visit to the project you will see several small pools with various species of turtles, a museum with videos showing the life of these turtles and have a chance to purchase souvenirs of the project in the small gift shop. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant in the village before some free time for shopping in the quaint stores that line the streets. Before heading back to the ship, enjoy some time at a beautiful beach in the nearby Guarajuba Village to take a swim in the sparkling waves - beverages and snacks available at a kiosk (not included).

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN MACEIO

HALFDAY CITY TOUR (3 ½)

This tour offers an overview about Maceio including downtown: “Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres Cathedral”(Our Lady of Pleasures), the state senate and Jaraguá District with a stop for photographs at the Belvedere of São Gonçalo, with a beautiful panoramic view of the city. The tour also includes a stop at “Pontal da Barra Handcraft Center”, as well as a scenic ride along the main beaches of the north and south.This tour offers an overview about Maceio including downtown “.

LAGOONS AND ISLANDS TOUR (4 hours)

Departing from the port for Pontal da Barra, 4 km away, you will pass Maceio city centre. In the famous Mundaú Lagoon, a motorboat ride will enable you to take stunning pictures whilst you cruise between the islands and canals, appreciating the magnificent scenery. You will be able to go for a swim at your next stop, which is where the Mundaú and Manguaba Lagoons meet, the two largest in the state. They represent and justify the state´s name as “Estado das Alagoas” (Lagoons State), which is where the famous and typical “sururu” dish originated. If you are lucky, you will be able to see the fishermen at work in the lagoons.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN RECIFE

HALFDAY CITY TOUR OF RECIFE WITH OLINDA (4 hours)

The bus leaves the pier driving past streets of the old Recife with its turn-of-the-century buildings, heading downtown to Praca da Republica (Republic Square) for a short photo stop of important venues such as the Govrenors Palace, the Justice Hall, St. Isabel Theatre and a slavery days baoba. Proceed to Casa da Cultura, a prison until 1973 and now a place where you will be able to appreciate Pernambucos rich culture through the work of local artisans. Enjoy some free time to peruse the old cells that are now individual stores with many souvenirs available. Next travel through the Amsterdam of Brazil towards Olinda, the old capital perched on hills 4 miles north of Recife. A national and world heritage site (UNESCO) with impressive scenic views and

dozens of century-old churches amid colonial houses. Here you will be shuttled by van uphill to admire the landscape and feel the grandeur of Olindas rich history. Upon arrival at the top, you will take short stroll to see artisans at work or purchase some of their items on display. Visit the church of Our Lady of Mercy, a magnificent sample of baroque art. Then step inside the Cathedral of the Sea from where you will have amazing panoramic views of Olinda and Recife. Admire the Convento São Francisco, the first Franciscan Convent in Brazil. Hidden among coconut trees, it was rebuilt between 1715 and 1754 and Monks still live in this baroque sanctuary. A highlight of this tour is a visit to the GOLDEN CHAPEL. Built between 1696 and 1724 the

baroque chapel is one of the most beautiful examples of religious architecture in Brazil

A Choir presentation can be arranged at the Golden Chapel in order to enhance the Tour.

CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL DISCOVERY (4 hours)

Enjoy a fascinating trip back In time, and experience the history of this beautiful city! The tour will begin at the Museum of the North-eastern Man: combining the Sugar Museum, with relics from colonial sugar mills : the Antropology Museum, and the Folk Art Museum, all displaying the evolution of local culture. We will visit the workshop of Francisco Brennan the most famous and respected Brazilian ceramist. He transformed his place, close to Recife, into a cultural center and outdoor museum, with more than 2,000 exposed pieces exhibited in a lovely garden with hundresds of tropical plants. A drive along Rua Aurora, will give us a close-up view of the colonial townhouses built along the bank of Capibaribe River. Finally, we’ll visit the “Five Points” Fort: built by the Dutch in 1630 and recently renovated.

HALFDAY IGARASSU AND ITAMARACÁ (4 ½ hours)

A Tour combining History and Beach. Igarassu is a historical city, 36 km far from Recife, where the São Cosme and São Damião Church, the oldest church in Brazil (1535), is located. Located 47 km north of Recife, Itamaracá was one of the first hereditary provinces distributed by Portugal to landowners. Later, it was the site of battles between the Portuguese and the Dutch when they arrived in Pernambuco.

Today, Itamaracá is certainly not a battlefield, but a peaceful port who welcomes all who berth here. Some buildings date back to the period of the wars, including Fort Orange built by the Dutch in the 17th century.

At Itamaracá Island is the IBAMA Centre for the Protection of the West Indian Manatee, a research centre for the protection of one of the most endangered species.

Optional: Passengers can take little boats on the beach and cross to a little sand island called “Coroa do Avião” (plane crown), where it has nautical sports.

FULL DAY PORTO DE GALINHAS (9 hours)

The most famous beach in the city’s area is Boa Viagem, where the coral reefs form natural warmwater swimming-pools. Stunning beaches stretch North and South from Recife, the most famous being Porto de Galinhas - located South from Recife, beyond the sugarcane plantations, it has become today one of the most visited Brazilian beaches, thanks to its crystalline warm waters, fine sands, coral-reefed natural swimming-pools and coconut groves. Driving along sugarcane plantations, the transfer time from the pier to this beach takes approx. 90 minutes. The day at the beach is completely at leisure, but we will stop near toilet and shower facilities, where also the chance of a nice seafood lunch is given at a Local Restaurant. And optional tours in buggies and Jangada-Boats (log-raft).

HALFDAY CATAMARAN TOUR WITH CASA DA CULTURA (3 hours)

Board a catamaran and cross the main rivers in Recife’s downtown area. Keep an eye open for the most beautiful colonial buildings in the city that date from the 19th century. As you travel, you will discover why Recife is nicknamed the “Brazilian Venice.”Your tour includes a stop at Casa da Cultura, a former jailhouse that has become a cultural center and shopping complex with 110 stores full of souvenirs.

HALFDAY BOA VIAGEM BEACH TOUR (4 hours)

Boa Viagem is Portuguese and means “Have a good trip.” It’s also the name of one of finest beaches in Brazil. The long swathe of sand is protected by a barrier of reefs forming a natural swimming pool. A charming avenue with bars, hotels and palm trees completes the tropical scenery and the vacation atmosphere. Your transfer to Boa Viagem includes free time to enjoy the beach and its many attractions.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN NATAL

HALFDAY NATAL DUNE BUGGY ADVENTURE (4 ½ hours)

More than its beautiful beaches, Natal is known for its 4,000 acres of dramatic wind-swept dunes filled with many natural, clear lakes. People from all over the world come to Natal for this unique dune-buggy adventure. You will be taken in air conditioned motor coach from the pier to the meeting point at the beach of Santa Rita, where you will meet your dune buggy. Each exclusive dune buggy holds three people. Your adventure starts at the Genipabu beach, you begin your ride into the Moving Dunes of

Genipabu. You can choose a relaxing or exciting dune buggy ride through the soft dunes, all the while, having spectacular views over the ocean. After your ride through the dunes, cross a small winding over on a private-poled raft. You will stop at Graçandu beach for a refreshing swim. You may relax with a refreshing local fruit drink to cool

you down; from here you can admire a beautiful view over the Genipabu dines. Continue to the dunes of Jacumã and the Pitangui dunes. Where you will make a stop at the Pitangui Lagoon. On you way back, you will enjoy a fantastic drive through the golden Dunes of Jacumã. The transfer back to the pier will be in motor coaches.

HALFDAY NATAL CITY TOUR AND CASHEWTREE VISIT (4 hours)

Begin your city tour with a visit to the old 16th-century Portuguese Fort Reis Magos, which marks the foundation of Natal. Departing the port by motorcoach, first pass the area called Riebira, the older part of the town, and head to the downtown area for a sightseeing of the Governors Palace and the mayor's office. On departing downtown by via Costeira, pass Ponta Negra Beach on the way to Pirangi Beach. Here you find the largest cashew tree in the world, covering an area of almost 8,000 square meters. From the beach, return to the port and your ship.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN FORTALEZA

HALFDAY CITY TOUR OF FORTALEZA (3 ½ to 4 hours)

Located on the north-eastern seaboard of Brazil and capital of the State of Ceara, Forteleza is a light airy city, bordered by some of the country´s best beaches. This tour offers the highlights of the region including a visit to the interesting neoclassical cathedral, with its beautiful stained-glass windows, and the José de Alencar Theater, a memorial to the famous poet from Ceará. Also enjoy a scenic drive via a palm-fringed beach and through Aldeota, the sophisticated residential area of Fortaleza. Proceed for a visit to the Mercado Central (Central Market) to browse among the delicate, handmade lace and embroidery for which the region is noted. Indian hammocks and craft work may also be purchased here at very reasonable prices. Your last stop is at the metallic bridge, which numbers among the major attractions of the city. The old iron construction is covered with a wooden roof and is known for it's having the most beautiful sunset views in Brazil.

HALFDAY TOUR TO CUMBUCO BEACH (5 hours)

Enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Cumbuco beach (located 32 kms from Fortaleza. This beach is well known for its white sand dunes and swaying palm trees. Upon arrival at the beach enjoy a refreshing coconut water before embarking on a thrilling buggy ride through the sand dunes. Afterwards you will have time for a swim in the ocean, a short sail on a Jangada – typical boat of the area or for lunch at the restaurant.

Note: The lunch is optional and offers the following menu: First course (couvert and fish balls), Main course (typical local grilled fish, served with rice, vegetable salad, french fries) and dessert (regional fruits), coffee. Buggy ride is very bumpy so not advisable for guests with back or neck problems or for those who are pregnant.

HALFDAY BEACH PARK WITH LUNCH (5 hours)

Departure from the pier and direct transfer to Beach Park, located 25 kms from Fortaleza at The East Coast in a 30 minutes transfer. At this beach is located the famous Beach Park Complex which offers an Aquatic Park, restaurants, bars and one hotel resort. There is enough time to enjoy the sun at the beach and relax at this beautiful place, that has been blessed by nature. On a time set, lunch will be served at the Park’s restaurant with following menu: Complete Buffet with 04 warm dishes, 08 types of salads, side dishes and a Mini Buffet with dessert. Mineral water and soft drinks are included during lunch. Return to the pier after lunch.

HALFDAY TOUR CACHAÇA MUSEUM (5 hours)

Travel by motorcoach to the south of Fortaleza to the area of Maranguape, home to the Ypioca Cachaça Museum. As you arrive at the site you will pass by the homes of the workers of the plant and the school that Ypioca provides for their employees children.

Once inside the gates of this partially open air museum enjoy a refreshing drink of sugar cane juice before taking a guided tour through the former home of the owners to see the history of the Teles family unfold before you. View maps, documents, photographs, machinery and a replica of a Cachaça production line as you travel back in time through the 17th and 18th centuries all the way to present day. On site you will also have the opportunity to see the largest wooden barrel in the world. With a capacity of 374,000 litres this barrel made it into the Guiness Book of Records.

After your tour of the museum, enjoy some free time to take a horse and buggy ride, paddle a boat on the lake, ride a tandom bike around the farm (all at an additional cost) or just sit back and relax in a hammock before returning to the pier.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN BELEM

HALF DAY CITY TOUR (3 ½ to 4 hours)

Travel to Belem by motorcoach to start your tour of this vibrant city. Visit the Basilik of our Lady of Nazareth, built during the rubber boom at the beginning of the 20^th century and styled after St. Pauls Cathedral in Rome. Take a walk through the Emilio Goeldi Zoo & Botanical Garden; founded in 1866 and set in over 5 hectares of wooded area the Goeldi is one of the most important researching centers in Brazil dedicated to the studies of Amazonian flora and fauna. You will have the chance to see some of the over 1,500 species that are in season during your visit. Meander through the many stalls of the Ver-o-Peso Market, Belém's star postcard attraction. It's a vast waterside cornucopia, with just about every Amazon product available for purchase. Stroll into

the original market hall -- the one with the cute blue Gothic arches, imported prefabricated from England in 1899 -- and you're in an Amazon Fish World, with outrageously strange Amazon fish like the 100-kilogram catfish-like pirapema, all laid out on ice or on the chopping table. Outside under the canopies there are hundreds of species of Amazon fruits and vegetables. There is also an arts-and-crafts fair with baskets, hats, spoons, and all manner of goods made from reeds and wood. Your guide will help you identify the colorful produce before you walk over some of the earliest streets of the city, past the fishing fleet to Forte do Castelo, built by the Portuguese during the 17th Century to protect their new colonies from the Dutch and French. From here you will have panoramic views of the large bay in front of Belem before driving back to the pier.

RIVER TOUR (3 ½ hours)

Travel by typical river boat to explore some of the Amazon Rivers creeks and channels to Boa Vista do Acará for a jungle experience.

During the boat ride you will have the opportunity to see local canoes, small fishing boats and other vessels making their way along the channels that lead in and out of the rainforest. Pass by the stilted homes of the inhabitants of the area while viewing the lush vegetation and keeping an eye out for the many species of birds that also make this area home. Once at Boa Vista do Acará you will disembark the boat and embark on a walk through the jungle as your guide points out the many different species of trees, fruits and seeds. Maybe you will even have the chance to taste some of them fresh from the trees depending on the season. After the walk, relax as you journey back to Belem by boat and reflect on your day.

HALF DAY CULTURAL TOUR (5 ½ to 6 hours)

During your tour of Belem you will visit some of the city’s most fascinating sites and be submerged in the culture of this interesting port of the Amazon region. Stroll through Mangal das Garcas, a birthday present from the navy (who donated the land) to the

city of Belém, the park was inaugurated in January 2005. Located on the river Guamá, the Mangal does an excellent job representing Belém's regional culture, flora, and fauna. A series of lagoons portrays the Amazonian ecosystem, starting off with a narrow Igarapé creek that opens up into a larger lagoon with white herons and scarlet ibises and finally empties into mangroves. There is a large viewing platform overlooking the river and the marsh along the shore. The park also has a gift shop and a number of attractions, these include a 45m-tall (150-ft.) modern lighthouse which offers

360-degree views; a walk-through aviary that houses over 20 species of local birds; a butterfly world, a glass enclosed space with hundreds of butterflies flying loose; and a small, interesting navigation museum which tells the story of many river craft used on the Amazon. Take a guided walk through the Museum of Sacred Art; inaugurated in 1998 it is the first of its type in the Amazon region and home to one of the most beautiful and complete collections of holy art in Brazil, including unique Jesuit and Indian pieces. Tour Sao Jose Liberto, the Jewel Hub and an old jail. It is hard to believe that that this tranquil site was used as a turbulent prison just a few years ago years ago. After a rebellion in 2000, inmates were transferred and a true treasure evolved; the Gem Museum of Para. Gold, silver diamonds, emeralds, tourmalines are amongst the precious and semi-precious stones and metals you will have a chance to view here. See the states first jewellery collection as well as how the rough stones are transformed into stunning pieces of wearable art. You will have time to walk through the cells, some of which house stores with some fine locally made jewellery on display for purchase or to simply admire. The true gem of the city though is the Teatro da Paz, considered one of the most beautiful in South America. This sumptuous opera house, built by the affluent of the city in 1878, is one of the symbols of economic splendor during the golden years of the rubber boom which turned Belem into the “Paris of America” Registered by the National Historical Patrimony, the theater was reinaugurated in 2002 after undergoing 2 years of restoration. The theater is built in a neoclassical style, with Greek columns on the façade and paintings by Aramando Balloni inside – A must see to all visitors to Belem.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN MACAPA

HALFDAY CITY TOUR OF MACAPA (3 hours)

City Tour Highlights - The Marco Zero Monument marks the passage of the equator through the city of Macapá, which is located on the northern mouth of the Amazon River. Featuring art displays, and a gift shop, the monument offers the opportunity to take a picture standing with one foot on each side of the equator and of being in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time. São José Fortress - The Sao Jose Fort sits at the entrance to the city. Completed in 1782 after 18 years of labor by Indians and slaves, the Fort is one of the best-preserved military monuments in

Brazil. The surrounding scenery is beautiful, and photos from the walls overlooking the Amazon River make great photos to send back to family. Indians House - At the Casa do Artesão (The Artisan’s House) ceramics coated in manganese and indigenous art can be purchased as souvenirs. The beauty of indigenous artifacts can be seen in

the weapons made from local wood and the variety of utensils and ornaments made with the teeth and bones of animals, feathers of birds, seeds and natural fibers.

Sustainable Development Museum - The tourists can experience the Amazon’s communities' realities by visiting the Waiãpi and Palikur Indians, rubber tree sap extractor and river dwellers traditional houses. At the museum restaurant, the tourists can taste juices and ice cream made out Amazonian fruits. The tourists can buy medicines and cosmetics made out of forest products.

HALFDAY BOAT TOUR (3 HOURS)

Relaxing boat tour in a safe and traditional Amazon boat. Among the attractions are a small beach and villagers along the Amazon river. Passengers will see the daily life and survival techniques on the islands in the middle of Amazon. Local people will show the passengers traditional medicinal plants, how they make their dishes, hand woven baskets, shrimp traps.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN SANTAREM

MAICA – PORTRAIT OF THE AMAZON REGION (4 HOURS)

Board a regional boat for a cruise to the "meeting of the waters," where the Amazon and Tapajos rivers come together. From there, you will continue to Maica Lake -- a natural tributary outlet of the Amazon that more closely resembles a stream in a floodplain. As the boat meanders through the flood plain, the beautiful landscape of this area showcases the Amazon Basin. You will have the opportunity to see the local inhabitants, as well as many species of birds and possibly even a fresh water dolphin. Before returning to Santarem, you'll stop to fish for piranhas. Those who prefer not to

fish can just relax on board and listen to the birdcalls.

SANTAREM & ALTER DO CHÃO CITY TOUR (4 ½ HOURS)

Depart the pier for a drive to Mercadão 2000, where you will visit a fish and fruit market to see a wide variety of fish species and tropical fruits consumed by the inhabitants of the Amazon area. Continue the tour to the town center for a stop at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Conceição-the oldest building in Santarém, dating back to 1761. Then, you'll stop at Fishermen's Square, where free time is allocated for shopping. Heading out of town, you will stop at the Manioc Flour House. Locally known as Casa da Farinha, this open-air facility gives visitors a chance to see rubber trees and Brazil nut trees. You'll also find out which foods are important to the locals and how they make the staple, tapioca. Continue out of town into rural Brazil to Alter do Chão, located on the clear Tapajos River and featuring beautiful white sand beaches. This charming town is Santarém's weekend resort, and has about 2,000 inhabitants year round. During a stop in the town you will have the opportunity to see a short folklorick show, shop for souvenirs or go for a quick dip in the clear, fresh waters of the river.

BEACH BARBECUE IN ALTER DO CHÃO (6 HOURS)

Leave from the port of Santarem and drive to Alter do Chão, where passengers will be welcomed at the beach for a typical tropical barbecue surrounded by the fresh water landscape of the river shore. A local folkloric group will present the typical dances and music of the Amazoon region. Caipirinhas and soft drinks will be served (catering can be rendered by the ship or organized thourgh SAT).

SANTAREM CITY TOUR (3 HOURS)

Depart from thepier of Santarem, passing by the fishmarket, pointing it out from the bus and stop at the Cathedral, the oldest building in town. From their proceed to the fishermen Square getting off to spot souvenirs and local scenery. Visit of the local museum “João Fona”. Afterwarsd drive to the mirante square, the ancient place of the Tapajós fortress, from where you have a nice outlook. While sipping soft drinks and mineral water, a small folkloric show will be presented.

ECO WALK THROUGH SANTA LUCIA ARBORETUM (4 HOURS)

From the pier in Santarem, depart by bus via the Santarem Cuiabá Highway to Bosque Santa Lúcia (Santa Lucia Arboretum). At an elevation of 160 meters (520 feet), your c guide will make a brief stop to show you tropical soil. Upon arrival in this woodland treasure begin an exploration on foot of its natural wonders. This area boasts more than 200 species of trees including the rubber tree. Brazil provided the world with the rubber tree, Hevea Brasiliensis, and although the country no longer plays a significant part in the natural rubber trade, it is forever linked to its past.

Accompanied by a local guide discover the different species of trees and their seeds such as the Brazil nut and hard wood. Following your 1½-hour stroll, return to Santarem before reboarding the ship.

VISIT TO CENTER FOR ANIMALS REHABILITATION (3 HOURS)

Depart from the port of Santarem and drive along the Santarem – Cuiaba highway, from where we will reach the ZOOFIT (center for animals rehabilitation). While walking on a secondary Amazonian forest, we will be spotting animals from the Amazon Fauna, such as monkeys, parrots, macaws, hanks, wild pigs, tapirs and others. At the end of the tour, a refreshment will be served before we return to Santarem. In 1993 the idea of the zoofit originated the project that is Santarems Zoo today. It arose by the necessity to receive and shelter in a proper way a huge amount of Amazonian fauna animals. Santarem Zoo enables the accomplishment of researches, teaching and exchange actions through integrated cooperative services in the same field. The main actions that lead this undertaking stand out: the surveillance of the biodiversity, the spreading of the technical-scientific knowledge about conservation and handling of the renewable

natural resources. The investment made by the institution enabled Santarem Zoo with the needed structure for scientific, didactic and administrative autonomy, speeding up the achievement of its main goals, such as: contribute to the research of the region development, mainly on the knowledge of the Amazonian flora and stimulate the ecotourism and environmental preservation. Located in a 146 hectares area, it has in its environment more than 100 vegetal identified species and 30 animal species.

SHORE EXCURSIONS IN MANAUS

CITY TOUR OF MANAUS WITH PERFORMANCE AT THE OPERA HOUSE (4 hours)

Same itinerary as above. All busses meet at the Opera House for a 30 to 40 Minutes performance, which can be classical (string quartet or quintet, piano or chorale) or a folklore show.

HALFDAY CITY TOUR OF MANAUS (3 hours)

Leave from the floating Port, which was built by the English in 1903 keeping in mind the annual rise and fall of the Rio Negro. Drive by the custom house, prefabricated in Liverpool (England) and shipped to Manaus one hundred years ago, Walk through the Municipal Market and learn about the local fish, fruits and medicinal herbs. Visit inside the 19th century Palácio Rio Negro built to be the private residence of a German rubber baron and later the Governors office until 1997, transformed after this date in Cultural Center, the Rio Negro Palace shelters today several exhibitions. The highlights of the tour will be a visit to the lavish Opera House built almost entirely of European material during the rubber boom and inaugurated in 1896.

HALFDAY FLORA AND FAUNA TOUR (4 hours)

Leaving from the floating port, visit the Natural Science Museum, where it is possible to know some species of regional fish, some of them alive and other embalmed and also a big collection of Amazonian butterfly and insects. Following, visit the Bosque da Ciência (INPA Amazonas National Research Institute), where a young guide will accompany you by a trail in the forest explaining about trees and insects, and also a little about the local researches. Between them, the project to preserve the Peixe boi (Trichecus inunguis).The Bosque da Ciência, is a ecological park inaugurated in1995, in celebration of 40 years of INPA foundation. There, it is possible to observe some animals that is live freely in the park, as well as the vegetation including fruit, medicinal and regional trees like Mahogany. Visit also the Army Zoo with where more than 76

spices of Amazonian animals are a held in nicely and clean surrounding, rounded by preserved forest with structure able to shelter animals from local fauna with care of the veterinary.

HALF DAY RIVER CRUISE TO THE MEETING OF THE WATERS (4 ½ hours)

Leave by local riverboat from the pier and sail down the Rio Negro past native houses built on stilts. Watch for the local boat wharfs, floating gas stations and an ice factory en route to "the meeting of rivers." For miles, the light brown Rio Solimões and black Rio Negro flow side by side without their colors mixing. Continue to Lake January, an ecological park situated between the two rivers. You'll board a smaller boat with an outboard motor to ride through the small tributaries and flooded creeks, into the deep Amazonian rain forest. Keep your eyes open for wildlife as well as the colorful parrots and toucans of the area. Before transferring back to the pier on the riverboat, take a short, optional walk over wooden boardwalks through the rainforest to a platform that overlooks giant water lilies. Keep your eyes and ears open for local wildlife along the way.

NOTE: Tour involves some effort during (dis)embarkation of the motorized canoes.

ALLIGATOR WATCHING [NIGHT TOUR] (3 hours)

Cross the Rio Negro by riverboat into Lake January. Board canoes with outboard motors and travel through the dark and exiting jungle. At night is when the jungle is most alive, watch the game of shadows and listen to the mysterious sounds. Your guide will watch for Alligators and when he locates one he will jump into the water

and catch it with his bare hands. You then will have the opportunity get a close look and take photographs before it is released back into the river.

FULL DAY RIVER CRUISE TO THE MEETING OF THE WATERS (8 hours)

With lunch and Canoe Ride

Set off in a local riverboat from the pier of Manaus. You'll head down the Rio Negro passing by the native houses built on stilts to accommodate the rivers tidal fluctuation. See the floating gas stations and the ice factory before reaching the confluence of the Rio Negro and the Rio Solimões. This is the birth place of the mighty Amazon River. Watch the phenomenon of two rivers meeting, as their two distinctly colored waters run parallel without blending. They flow like this for miles. Travel to Lake January, an ecological park situated between the two rivers. Here you will board small canoes with motors for an interesting ride through the smaller tributaries and creeks of the

area. After returning to base at Lake January you will have a chance to take a stroll through the rainforest to see giant water lilies and the Samaumeira tree, the largest type of tree in the Amazon region that was used by natives as a way of communication.

A buffet lunch will be served at a floating restaurant before you return to the ship.

OVERLAND TOUR TO AMAZON ECOPARK LODGE (9 hours)

The Amazon Ecopark is an eco-tourism complex situated on the banks of the Tarumã Açú tributary. Your exploration into the densely covered tropical rainforest begins as your depart the pier by regional boat – Take a two-hours up Rio Negro. This vast natural park criss-crossed by numerous unexplored streams called igarapés. After a welcome drink, an experienced local jungle guide will lead you to visit the Center for the Rehabilitation of Amazon Primates, also called Monkey Forest. Established in 1991, the Center's objective is to re-introduce animals kept in captivity, or that have

been rescued from areas of Brazil that have been flooded or burned as a result of development, back to the jungle. Scientific projects are carried out here, and visitors can follow the steps of the re-integration of primates to the wild, from the time they arrive at the Center to the moment they are ready to return to the wild. And continue on an easily paced 1½ hour walk into the primary forest. A large number of indigenous animals inhabit this area, including several species of monkeys and exotic Amazon birds. While keeping your vision poised for a chance to spot these wild creatures,

your guide will also explain the jungle ecosystem, point out varieties of medicinal plants and give you some pointers on jungle survival techniques. Also in the Ecopark is a panoramic restaurant decorated in rustic Amazon style where you will enjoy a buffet lunch of regional specialties. Afterward, a leisurely, scenic boat trip down the Rio Negro returns you to Manaus and the ship.

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