Step aboard in Southampton & straight into that holiday feeling. No flights, no hassle. Just the excitement of the days ahead and the promise of memorable moment. So, relax and raise a toast as the UK drifts from sight. Before you know it, youll be watching your destination come into view. But where will it be ?

For more than 250 years, this was the last stronghold of the Knights of Malta. An optional excursion reveals the Grand Masters Palace, doubtless one of the Mediterraneans finest treasures.

As the third largest city in Israel, and also one of its prettiest, Haifa has plenty to offer, including picturesque gardens, architecture from the Ottoman and Bauhaus periods, and a lively town centre. Hilly Haifa is also Israel’s largest port, and the sea plays an important role in day-to- day life here. On your Haifa cruise, you will find attractive beaches giving way to a unique mix of neighbourhoods, cultures and six faiths living peacefully side by side. Perhaps the most iconic of all Haifa’s sights are the Bahá’í Gardens on the dramatic, sheer inclines of Mount Carmel. You will find 19 immaculately manicured terraces containing flower beds, fountains, pools and sculptures, and the views out over Haifa Bay alone are worth the visit. It takes over 100 gardeners to maintain the site, and the hard work definitely pays off – the gardens are a place of beauty, peace and serenity. It is no surprise then that they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

As the third largest city in Israel, and also one of its prettiest, Haifa has plenty to offer, including picturesque gardens, architecture from the Ottoman and Bauhaus periods, and a lively town centre. Hilly Haifa is also Israel’s largest port, and the sea plays an important role in day-to- day life here. On your Haifa cruise, you will find attractive beaches giving way to a unique mix of neighbourhoods, cultures and six faiths living peacefully side by side. Perhaps the most iconic of all Haifa’s sights are the Bahá’í Gardens on the dramatic, sheer inclines of Mount Carmel. You will find 19 immaculately manicured terraces containing flower beds, fountains, pools and sculptures, and the views out over Haifa Bay alone are worth the visit. It takes over 100 gardeners to maintain the site, and the hard work definitely pays off – the gardens are a place of beauty, peace and serenity. It is no surprise then that they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

Take in the impressive picture of the grand ships waiting to enter the Suez Canal at the southern entrance on the Red Sea. Suez is a primary hub for those wanting to visit Egypts historical wonders.

Jordans only port was called Elath, the principal city of the Edomite people and a major commercial centre. From here you can travel to the astonishing hidden city of Petra, looming like a mirage that melts into the red sandstone hills of the desert. Dating back to 7,000 BC, Petra was the capital of a flourishing civilisation that stretched from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. Today it appears much the same as it was thousands of years ago, a unique marriage of natural and man-made wonders on an awesome scale. Aqaba offers internationally renowned diving and the richest marine life in the entire Red Sea.

Salalah is the birthplace of Omans reigning Sultan Qaboos. The city is surrounded by coconut, banana, guava, and papaya groves. Unlike the rest of Arabia, Omans summer capital catches the Indian summer monsoon and is cooler, wetter and far greener than the rest of the region. It is Omans second largest city located amid striking mountain scenery and beautiful white sand beaches, which stretch for miles. Follow the Frankincense Trail to Prophet Jobs Tomb, perched high up in the “Jebel” (mountains) – a must-see for both its religious significance and beautiful setting. En route are spectacular views of the plains, mountain landscape and emerald green pastures.

Dubai is a place of fascinating contrasts, a distinctive blend of East and West, of old and new. You can venture across vast, dunes, climb rugged mountains, play on sandy beaches, explore dusty villages and shop in an ultra-modern mall – all in the same day. Since earliest times, Dubai has been known as “the city of merchants”, welcoming traders from distant lands with a tradition of courtesy and hospitality that still lives on today.

Dubai is a place of fascinating contrasts, a distinctive blend of East and West, of old and new. You can venture across vast, dunes, climb rugged mountains, play on sandy beaches, explore dusty villages and shop in an ultra-modern mall – all in the same day. Since earliest times, Dubai has been known as “the city of merchants”, welcoming traders from distant lands with a tradition of courtesy and hospitality that still lives on today.

The UAE’s capital is a dynamic and fascinating city to explore. A Miami-like mix of salt-white sand and reflective skyscrapers, Abu Dhabi offers world-class art museums, innovative Middle Eastern cuisine, and countless opportunities to shop. Your guide to Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi City occupies its own island and it’s here that visitors arriving by sea will step ashore. Capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi takes its name from the Arabian Gazelle that once roamed here, long before the discovery of oil kick-started the area’s metamorphosis. Consequently, Abu Dhabi is today a futuristic metropolis populated by glass skyscrapers and fringed by salt-white beaches. From a destination billed previously as ‘one to watch’ Abu Dhabi is now officially ‘one to experience’ with world-class hotels, serious shopping, outstanding attractions, incredible restaurants and some of the world’s finest art museums.

Rising up from the desert, Doha is an ambition being brought to life by the world’s most talented architects, constantly creating awe-inspiring new shapes and angles across the ever-changing skyline. Known as the shining jewel of Qatar, Doha sits on the east coast lapped by the warm waters of the Persian Gulf. Your guide to Doha. Capital of Qatar, one of the world’s richest countries, Doha is a dynamic and progressive city boasting luxury shopping, fine dining and museums as exuberant as those you’d find in Dubai. Yet beneath its sparkling surface lies a historic centre untouched by the hand of time, where heady spices hang in the air and the contemporary skyscrapers seen throughout the city are notably absent. It’s this juxtaposition of old and new that makes Doha such an intriguing and memorable port of call in the Middle East. Whether browsing its designer shops or haggling in its bustling souks, Doha will offer no end of enchanting contradictions.

In this low-rise gem between the Arabian Gulf and scenic mountains, your first impression will likely be from the Sultanate of Oman’s beautiful main palace, but there is a great deal more to Muscat. Your guide to Muscat. Perched on the Gulf of Oman, Muscat has long enjoyed a history as a continental crossroads – its ancient capital enticing visitors from all corners of the world. Where other cities have altered with time, Muscat honours its ancestral roots. Traditional sugar-white houses and yellowed forts stretch from the Arabian Sea to the foothills of Western Hajar. Bulbous domes and minarets erupt from rooftops, and the masts of dhows sway in the citys harbours. Even Muscat’s newer buildings exude special character. Add in sumptuous food, decadent markets and sweeping gardens, and you’re certain to fall in love with this exuberant city of charm and splendour.

A landscape draped in greenery, stunning beaches, great wildlife refuges and the ruins of an ancient civilisation beckon visitors to Sri Lanka, an island inhabited by man for perhaps half a billion years. The sights of Colombo are many, a combination of British colonial architecture, historical museums, fine restaurants and shopping – especially for sapphires and rubies. Take a tour to the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, the last stronghold of Sinhalese kings, passing villages, rice paddies and ox carts along the way.

A full province of Thailand, Phukets mountainous interior is densely forested with mahogany, rubber trees, tropical evergreen, royal palm, ficus, and bamboo. A hippy haven until the Seventies when it burst upon the pleasure-seekers scene, Phuket seems well able to handle its popularity as Asias premier resort. Diving is superb in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. Villages still maintain a semblance of ‘tradition. Photographers can head for the striking seascapes of limestone pillars in Phang Nga Bay and most of all – the beaches are the best.

This cluster of 99 islands boasts palm-fringed beaches that are the envy of all Malaysia beside an abundance of other natural wonders shrouded in folklore.

Penang is an alluring combination of golden beaches and cultural gems. Along the north coast, Penangs most famous beach is lined with luxury Asian hotels while Malay kampongs sprinkle across a countryside scented with cloves and nutmeg. Admire the giant reclining Buddha and the 1,000 gilded statues of Kek Lok Si Temple. See the elaborate clan house of the Chinese Khoo Kongsi. Ride a tram to the superb vistas atop Penang Hill. Or set out for the Temple of the Azure Cloud, a.k.a. the “Snake Temple”, where sacred pit vipers, half-drugged by incense, writhe around the columns and statues.

Modern Singapore is a fascinating mélange of cultures. Browse the shop-houses of Little India, perfumed with fragrant spices and flowers. Have tea in Chinatown where medicine shops and calligraphers line the narrow streets. Meander through the worlds largest collection of orchids in the Botanic Garden, and walk through Raffles Landing, the old colonial district with its restored British-style buildings.

Modern Singapore is a fascinating mélange of cultures. Browse the shop-houses of Little India, perfumed with fragrant spices and flowers. Have tea in Chinatown where medicine shops and calligraphers line the narrow streets. Meander through the worlds largest collection of orchids in the Botanic Garden, and walk through Raffles Landing, the old colonial district with its restored British-style buildings.

Welcome to Vietnams culinary centre where there is plenty on the menu. The port of Phu My (pronounced “Foo Me”) is the gateway to Ho Chi Minh City and the seaside resort of Vung Tau.

Contradiction is part of Hong Kong’s attraction. While the city buzzes with modern commerce, soaring skyscrapers and sophistication, it remains a place of ancient beliefs and intriguing local customs. Your guide to Hong Kong. Few cities balance old and new like Hong Kong. A city as fiercely modern as it is traditional, life here pulses with vigour and vitality while still honouring ancient customs and beliefs. Market traders hawk steaming dumplings on neon-lit streets. Sacred temples stand in the shadow of skyscrapers and luxury boutiques populate glossy shopping centres. Contradiction is all part of Hong Kong’s appeal, the city’s dynamic personality a complementary blend of Chinese and British influences. Heralded as one of the world’s foremost culinary, cultural and commercial capitals, a port call here provides myriad ways to satisfy your stomach, your senses and your suitcase.

Contradiction is part of Hong Kong’s attraction. While the city buzzes with modern commerce, soaring skyscrapers and sophistication, it remains a place of ancient beliefs and intriguing local customs. Your guide to Hong Kong. Few cities balance old and new like Hong Kong. A city as fiercely modern as it is traditional, life here pulses with vigour and vitality while still honouring ancient customs and beliefs. Market traders hawk steaming dumplings on neon-lit streets. Sacred temples stand in the shadow of skyscrapers and luxury boutiques populate glossy shopping centres. Contradiction is all part of Hong Kong’s appeal, the city’s dynamic personality a complementary blend of Chinese and British influences. Heralded as one of the world’s foremost culinary, cultural and commercial capitals, a port call here provides myriad ways to satisfy your stomach, your senses and your suitcase.

The Philippines’ sprawling capital city is a bustling hub of diverse cultures and heritage. Manila’s heady assortment of historical influences combine to give the city its unique identity. A long and varied history stretches back as far as 5,000 years, with human life occupying the area from around 3000 BC. The city first flourished during the Ming Dynasty due to trade relations with China, before experiencing invasions by Indian, Bruneian and further Chinese empires and then becoming the seat of the colonial government of Spain.

On the north coast of the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia lies Bitung, known for its incredibly vibrant, varied and often-bizarre marine life that thrives in its coastal waters. Nature lovers are welcome! Your guide to Bitung. From bustling cities to awe-inspiring landscapes, the Indonesian port of Bitung is the gateway to northern Sulawesi’s abundant wonders, including its provincial capital Manado. Fringed by fauna cloaked mountains, Manado is a gastronomic paradise with dining spots turning out aromatic delicacies and beach bars coupling cocktails with salty ocean views. Pick up a souvenir from the seafront arcade, try island-fished tuna (with eye-wateringly hot sambal) and admire the architectural contrasts of colonial Dutch buildings and ancient Buddhist temples. Further afield you’ll encounter the black and white sands of Lembeh Island, the waruga stone graves of Airmadidi Village and the mangrove forests of Tangkoko Nature Reserve.

Situated on the remote northern shores of Australia’s ‘Top End,’ balmy Darwin has matured from its early days as a true frontier settlement to become a welcoming, lively and multicultural modern city. Your guide to Darwin. Darwin is a thriving, multifaceted city and capital of Australias Northern Territory – one of the most remote and sparsely populated regions in the country. Built on the Timor Sea, the city is the gateway to some of Northern Australia’s most striking natural scenery, while its proximity to South East Asia has fuelled Darwin’s status as a bridge between the country and neighbouring Indonesia. Colossal mountains, verdant grasslands and sprawling national parks surround Darwin’s bustling urban centre, while characterful taverns, unique cultural attractions and a fabulous assortment of fresh fish restaurants reinforce the city’s welcoming, congenial feel.

Discover the history and sightseeing highlights of this charming beachside town. Your coach will take you to the Proserpine Historical Museum, where you’ll delve into the legacy of the region’s sugar and cattle industries, as well as viewing a ‘Digger’ vintage steam locomotive that was used in the sugar fields during WWI. Then you’ll take in the highlights of this developing area, pausing at the Harbour Lookout for stunning panoramic views, and concluding with refreshments at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Come face to face with koalas, kangaroos and wombats on tours from this laid-back city. Wander in botanical gardens and enjoy people-watching from a cafe on the Brisbane River.

Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”. With an area that sprawls 670 square miles, Sydney is one of the largest cities in the world. But its the exquisite Sydney Harbour that draws world-wide acclaim – that, along with its magnificent Opera House. And with nearly three days, youll have plenty of time to go exploring.

Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”. With an area that sprawls 670 square miles, Sydney is one of the largest cities in the world. But its the exquisite Sydney Harbour that draws world-wide acclaim – that, along with its magnificent Opera House. And with nearly three days, youll have plenty of time to go exploring.

Flower gardens and graceful, tree-lined boulevards add a refined air to Melbourne, regarded as the hub of Australias cultural, intellectual and financial life – at least by Melbournians! Modern skyscrapers mingle comfortably with Victorian homes, and an aura of upper-class elegance pervades. If you find country pleasures more appealing, ride the historic steam train “Puffing Billy” past forests and farms, before having lunch at a Yarra Glen vineyard.

Flower gardens and graceful, tree-lined boulevards add a refined air to Melbourne, regarded as the hub of Australias cultural, intellectual and financial life – at least by Melbournians! Modern skyscrapers mingle comfortably with Victorian homes, and an aura of upper-class elegance pervades. If you find country pleasures more appealing, ride the historic steam train “Puffing Billy” past forests and farms, before having lunch at a Yarra Glen vineyard.

Adelaide offers an abundance of colour, surrounded by the Mt. Lofty Ranges and the waters of the Gulf St. Vincent. Named after the wife of King William IV, this seaside port is a bustling city with historic charm. Tour the South Australian Museum with its exceptional collection of glassy-eyed critters and Aboriginal artefacts. Or head to Glenelgs white sand beaches and old-style amusement park.

Perth’s spectacular growth in recent times makes the old historic port of Fremantle seem tiny in comparison. Eighty per cent of Western Australia’s population lives in or around this sunny metropolis. Your guide to Perth. They say you can’t please everyone, but Perth may prove to be the exception to that rule. The city’s urban sprawl is awash with fusion flavours, fashionable boutiques and innovative museums but Western Australia’s capital impresses in other ways too. Its Kings Park and Botanic Garden are one of the largest inner-city green spaces; eclipsing even New York’s Central Park. Outstanding beaches decorate Perth’s coastline, while verdant wineries surround its inland fringes. Throw in the world’s largest gold coin (one of Perth’s many novel claims to fame) and you begin to appreciate why the city is so many things to so many people.

Youll find beauty, beaches and la bonne vie in this former French Colony. Its encircled with picturesque villages, volcanic peaks, aquamarine lagoons and a spectacular coral reef. The capital of Port Louis offers shopping bargains at the old-fashioned central market. Take a Land Rover to see deer, monkeys and rare birds at the 3,000 acre Domaine Les Pailles. Go bird watching at Casela Bird Park. Or set out on a catamaran to admire the sun-drenched beauty of the island, landing on dazzling white beaches and snorkelling amongst shoals brimming with kaleidoscopic fish.

East of Madagascar, the warmly inviting Réunion offers a little taste of French culture on a tropical island full of cultural Creole buildings and an expansive range of superb geographical diversity. From beaches to lush forests, Réunion’s rugged roads and plains lead to any number of inspiring scenes. Seek out the ‘Piton de la Fournaise’ or ‘Peak of the Furnace,’ to witness an active volcano.

The summer resort of Transvaalers is your gateway to some of South Africas greatest attractions. Discover the breathtaking Valley of a Thousand Hills, the Kingdom of the Zulu. Or set out along The Garden Route, a region of high mountains, lush forests, sun drenched beaches and quaint little towns, an explorers dream and undoubtedly one of South Africas premier sights.

As you sail to Port Elizabeth, or ‘The Bay’, you begin to sense the energy and prosperity of this thriving city. It is one of the largest, sunniest and wonderfully vibrant cities in all South Africa. The city stretches for 10 miles along Algoa Bay and is one of the major seaports in the country. Travelling to South Africa by ship it is quite likely you will cruise to Port Elizabeth to dock. As you sail into the port area there are magnificent views of a small group of islands, home to many rare seabird populations, dotted in the waters.

The “Mother City” has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Not only is it one of the most beautiful cities in the world – tucked into the arms of a broad bay, beneath Table Mountain – but it is also surrounded by wild beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day you can ride the cable car to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, with majestic Cape Town at your feet and the Cape of Good Hope in the distance. Less than an hour away, you can go wine tasting at Stellenbosch, famous for its Cape Dutch architecture and fine estate wines.

The “Diamond of Africa” is a country of stark beauty and contrasting landscapes. It is home to the worlds oldest desert, the worlds highest sand dunes, and a diversity of people that have created an intriguing blend of cultures and traditions. Tales of shipwrecks echo along the Skeleton Coast where you can visit the old world resort of Swakopmund and glimpse Spitzkoppe, a volcanic mountain known as Namibias Matterhorn. Discover the largest breeding colony in southern Africa at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve. Admire the scenic splendour of a vast lagoon sheltering 31 species of birds including thousands of flamingos. For a change of pace, go sightseeing from a donkey cart or kayak across a lagoon.

Let your senses sing. Dakars Marché Sandaga bustles and dazzles with brilliant, vibrant fabrics. Jazz and steel bands add the hypnotic rhythms along the broad boulevards.

Take a deep breath. Can you smell bananas or pineapples? They are grown in the plantations which are just for a short ride away from the beautiful beach resorts and lively town centre of the island.

Lush botanical gardens and superbly landscaped terraces adorn the hills above the capital. Settle down in a local café and soak up the scenery with a perfectly chilled glass of fortified wine – an island speciality.

Step aboard in Southampton & straight into that holiday feeling. No flights, no hassle. Just the excitement of the days ahead and the promise of memorable moment. So, relax and raise a toast as the UK drifts from sight. Before you know it, youll be watching your destination come into view. But where will it be ?